ABSTRACT
… one thing is certain – whether we have come by our empire righteously or unrighteously – whether we have been forced into possessions we did not covet, or have sought quarrels that we might gain by issue – the natives at large have essentially benefited by the change of masters. It is true we do not erect temples to idolatory, nor huge tombs, nor lofty fortresses; but we have done far more: we have done our best, amidst enormous difficulties and obstructions, to give the people education, and a wholesome administration of Justice; we have constructed roads and canals, built bridges, introduced steam navigation, and improved agriculture; and much more has to be done.1
