Intercourse between India and the Western World from the Earliest Times to the Fall of Rome c8.81

c8.81

Sixthly came the *Overseers*¹ or *Inspectors*, a branch of the Civil Service specially maintained by Chandragupta. These officers travelled round inspecting the work of the government officials, and furnishing confidential reports direct to the Throne on their conduct. They spied on the army too, and it is said that they freely used the courtezans of the city to obtain information². Besides keeping the Viceroys and rulers of the distant provinces of the great Empire up to the mark, they no doubt checked the frequent plots hatched against the Emperor's life. When they were on circuit, they gave even the meanest subject a chance to appeal against official tyranny. The post is said to have been a well-paid one, and much in request among adventurous youths. It seems probable that Aśoka used these officials to enforce the Law of the Dharma on his subjects.