Annals and Antiquities of Rajasthan, or the Central and Western Rajput States of India v3.c42.s2.t1.63

v3.c42.s2.t1.63

Such was the Patel system of Kotah. A system so rigid had its alloy of evil ; the veil of secrecy, so essential to commercial pursuits, was rudely drawn aside ; every transaction was exposed to the regent, and no man felt safe from the inquisitorial visits of the spies of this council. A lucky speculation was immediately reported, and the regent hastened to share in the success of the speculator. Alarm and disgust were the consequence ; the spirit of trade was damped ; none were assured of the just returns of their industry ; but there was no security elsewhere, and at Kotah only the Protector dared to injure them.