nsion of science and
civilisation, opposed by Hayes; then Carey, as moderator, made an
appropriate Bengali speech. A similar disputation in Arabic and a
Sanskrit declamation followed, when Carey was called on to conclude
with a speech in Sanskrit. Two days after, at a second assemblage of
the same kind, followed by a state dinner. Lord Wellesley presented
the best students with degrees of merit inscribed on vellum in Oriental
characters, and delivered an oration, in which he specially
complimented the Sanskrit classes, urged more general attention to the
Bengali language, and expressed satisfaction that a successful
beginning had been made in the study of Marathi.

It was considered a dangerous experiment for a missionary, speaking in
Sanskrit, to avow himself such not only before the Governor-General in
official state but before the Hindoo and Mohammedan nobles who
surrounded him. We may be sure that Carey would not show less of his
Master's charity and wisdom than he had always striven to do. But the
necessity was the more laid on him that he should openly confess his
great calling, for he had told Fuller on Lord Wellesley's arrival he
would do so if it were possible. Buchanan, being quite as anxious to
bring the mission forward on this occasion, added much to the English
draft--"the whole of the flattery is his," wrote Carey to Fuller--and
sent it on to Lord Wellesley with apprehension. This answer came back
from the great Proconsul:--"I am much pleased with Mr. Carey's truly
original and excellent speech. I would not wish to have a word
altered. I esteem such a testimony from such a man a greater honour
than the applause of Courts and Parliaments."

"MY LORD, it is just that the language which has been first cultivated
under your auspices should primarily be employed in gratefully
acknowledging the benefit, and in speaking your praise. This ancient
language, which refused to disclose itself to the former Governors of
India, unlocks its treasures at your command, and enriches the world
with the history, learning, and science of a distant age. The rising
importance of our collegiate institution has never been more clearly
demonstrated than on the present occasion; and thousands of the learned
in distant nations will exult in this triumph of literature.

"What a singular exhibition has been this day presented to us! In
presence of the supreme Governor of India, and of its most learned and
illustrious char