36 S 
TIBET. 
submit to a variety of successive usurpers, the powerful principle of 
independence is now nearly extinguished, and they are fitted for the 
abject slaves of despotic tyranny ; without firmness to assert their 
rights, and without resolution to resist the pressure of a foreign yoke, 
however feeble the power by which it is imposed. 
Under less authority, therefore, than the sanction of a Lama, your 
plans cannot be pushed to any great extent. They were first taken up 
by a man, who dared to deviate from the narrow policy of implicit 
obedience; who had ability to lead the affections of his own subjects, 
and command the support of the neighbouring states; and who was 
urged to extend his connections, as well by an attention to the interests 
of those over whom he ruled, £s by the impulse of ambition. Such 
was Teshoo Lama. His successor will doubtless assume the office, 
with strong prepossessions in favour of the same project; and I confi¬ 
dently expect that he will be taught to feel, and to indulge the pride 
of having first encouraged in his pre-existence, and perfected in his 
regeneration, a plan evidently designed for universal benefit. The 
Regent’s letter will, I presume, be the best criterion, by which to judge 
of his dispositions; though it may be observed, that, in receiving me 
at this time into the country, he has acted rather according to his pri¬ 
vate sentiments, than in conformity with the wishes of the government 
of Lassa. Dalai Lama himself, indeed, has not been averse to my 
admission; but there is a bias on the government, an external force, 
that turns it from its natural course, and hinders it from pursuing the 
current of its own interests and inclinations. 
Tibet has, from time immemorial, been the resort of merchants. 
