The Early History of India, from 600 B.C. to the Muhammadan Conquest, including the Invasion of Alexander the Great c18.55

c18.55

The second Board devoted its energies to the case of foreign residents and visitors, and performed duties which in modern Europe are entrusted to the consuls representing foreign powers. All foreigners were closely watched by officials, who provided suitable lodgings, escorts, and, in case of need, medical attendance. Deceased strangers were decently buried, and their estates were administered by the commissioners, who forwarded the assets to the persons entitled.¹ The existence of these elaborate regulations is conclusive proof that the Maurya empire in the fourth and third centuries B. C. was in constant intercourse with foreign states, and that large numbers of strangers visited the capital on business.