Siyar al-mutaʾakhkhirin 29.12

29.12

there is no doubt but mighty benefits might be derived from such a regulation. But at the same time it would be requisite that he should never lose sight of this, that as the Members of the Council are Englishmen, that is Lords and masters of this land, it is incumbent upon him never to deviate, either in his words or behaviour, from that respect which behoves him, both as a subject and a servant. It is requisite, likewise, that the Gentlemen, once sensible of his being an useful, zealous man, and an old attendant on that board, should listen to his advice in all matters, and not suffer their particular Divans and Moonshies (Secretaries) to engross all to themselves. This was a precaution constantly attended to, under George Vansittart, and also under Mr. Ayoun Law. Whenever such a trusty servant at any time becomes guilty of any misdemeanour or infidelity, he must be punished in proportion to his guilt, that others of the same office and station, taking warning from his disgrace, may not deviate from the path of integrity; and if ever it shall be convenient to establish such a Council, it would be proper to diminish the number of Members, so as that they should not exceed the number of two or three; for the multitude of rulers never fails to produce confusion in business, and diffidence in the minds of the subject; and to be upon good terms with such a number of men, is impossible for poor people, as we have already hinted.