410 VISITS; TO MADAGASCAR, chap. xv. 
integrity, and justice, energy and self-reliance. Integrity 
or truthfulness will inspire confidence, encourage industry, 
and insure unity and co-operation.” He said he most earnestly 
desired knowledge, and regretted that he could not read 
English books so as to understand them readily. I told him 
I regretted it also, but congratulated him upon the attain¬ 
ments which, under great disadvantages, he had already made; 
and I urged and encouraged him to persevere, adding that 
from the teachings of history, and the maxims of wisdom 
embodied in that language, he might learn the true sources 
of the prosperity of nations. I stated that England was once 
less enlightened and less civilised than Madagascar at the 
present time; but that by gradual yet steady progress through 
a long series of years, and many severe ordeals, she had 
attained the position which she now occupied amongst the 
nations; and why should not a similar course issue in 
corresponding results elsewhere ? The officer who was with 
us, and who had been seven years at school in England when 
a youth, observed that such indeed had been the past of 
England’s progress. 
In reply to further inquiries from the prince as to the 
best means of promoting the progress of the people, I said, 
‘‘Seek to enlighten them ; promote education to the utmost. 
Don’t be afraid of the people knowing too much. Those who 
are the best informed will be the most efficient members of 
the community; they will turn their own resources to the 
best account; and they will render the best service to the 
state. An ignorant people can only be governed by force; 
an enlightened people by reason. The people that under¬ 
stand the laws best, if they are just laws, will be the most 
ready to obey them. Prosperity,” I added, “ is promoted by 
encouraging industry, and protecting each man in the enjoy¬ 
ment of the fruits of his own labour. This will make the 
people contented; and a contented people are always a loyal 
