A History of the Mahrattas v1.c23.65

v1.c23.65

With regard to Bajee Rao, when we look to the perplexities both foreign and domestic, in which he was involved, the confusion which continued to prevail in every branch of the administration is far from surprising. He manifested little disposition towards regular government; many of his countrymen accuse him of avarice; of some disregard to the observances of his faith; and of being so entirely a soldier as to neglect every branch of finance and jurisprudence. Their opinions are entitled to full consideration, but will not greatly detract from the superior character of Bajee Rao. If he inherited some of the defects of his cast, he was free from their bigotry, and but slightly tainted with the meaner vices, which render the general character of Bramins when in power despicable. The strictures of his countrymen are best answered by his embarrassments and his career. It is true he was inordinately ambitious, and in his last scheme of subjugating the Deccan he completely miscalculated his means; yet he made the best amends for his want of foresight by receding from the attempt in a creditable manner. Bajee Rao’s plans, like those of most men when formed amidst a choice of difficulties, surrounded by faction, intrigues, and danger, did not extend to remote futurity. As a politician, however, in suppressing much domestic opposition, in quickly discerning and promptly counteracting the designs of Nizam Ool Moolk, he evinced penetration, talent, and vigour. His enlarged views, in fitly directing the only power at his disposal, might lead us to suppose him capable