| Description | The past fortnight has passed without any outbreak in violence. The planters of the district did not get so much indigo planted as in previous years, but as much as they deserved. The courts have exposed the system, and 'young ladies who wear blue ribbons and the Emperor of Russia whose soldiers consume indigo ...must be contet to pay at least double'. In the past, the ryotts have been in debt and have received next to nothing for their planting. They have submitted this year with dangerous reluctance. The planters will suffer losses, but securing some form of justice for the ryotts next year would have been thwarted otherwise. The planters have petitioned for William's removal, but their petitions are 'childish'. The ryotts have also complained about the severity with which the new law is being enforced. [John Peter] Grant thinks that William should have done more for the ryotts, but the new law threw everything off balance. He has not lost Grant's support, despite Lushington reporting him for insubordination over the publication of a notice. According to Lushington, Grant has written in a way satisfactory to both parties. William believes that although he did refuse an order, Lushington should have published the notice himself. [Arthur] Grote has condemned the notification. It is now public and the government has committed itself to the position that the ryotts need not sow indigo next year. William has pointed out that this is a distinct promise and that steps must be taken to ensure its fulfilment. He thanks his father for help with the coefficient question, which he has acted upon. He will have some time to rest over the next fortnight, and notes his headaches. |