ABSTRACT
Before the exploits of Dupleix and Bussy had produced their natural consequences, the position of Europeans in India had varied much. In the north they were at the uncertain mercy of the local Governors. At Calcutta, for example, the Council feared to condemn a Muhammadan to death; and neither French nor Englilsh were allowed to strengthen or enlarge their fortifications. But the government of Bengal under Alivirdi Khan was comparatively vigorous, and subordinate officials were closely watched. The governments dependent on the Subahdar of the Deccan, however, were much less strictly supervised during the later years of Nizam-ul-Mulk. He had adopted the custom of letting out the various offices for short terms to the highest bidder; and the local Nawabs were at liberty to recoup themselves as best they could. The European factories which lay within their power felt their severity. Those at Masulipatam, formerly a great mart, languished or were withdrawn on account of the heavy duties that had been imposed. The French factory at Yanam, the Dutch at Narsapur, the English at Ingeram and Madapollam, were harassed by demands for presents, or requisitions to buy timber, under pain of the stoppage of trade. On more than one occasion the total abandonment of these factories was contemplated.
