History of the Parsis : including their manners, customs, religion and present position : with coloured and other illustrations : in two volumes

XX INTRODUCTION.

When Bombay became a British possession, and oradually wrested from Goa the commercial supremacy of the west coast, the Parsis at last found the opportunity of distinguishing themselves above their fellows, and of gaining a name. European travellers had called attention to their good qualities at an early period of Western exploration in the Hast, but it was only at the commencement of the eighteenth century that they can be said to have found scope for employing them. While much of their business was still done in the character of agents for the English and other Europeans, they were gradually extending their operations in directions which they had not previously thought of or attempted. Before the middle of the century was reached they had established a wide and extending connection as contractors to the Government for the supply of provisions to troops in garrison and in the field. They were also largely employed by shipowners and merchants. These transactions brought wealth in their train, and it was not long before Parsis began to trade on their own account, and to establish independent firms. When their attention was turned to China they found the most profitable avenue that had been opened to them. Within a short period after the great victory of Trafalgar the Eastern seas were cleared of a hostile flag, and perfect security existed for all merchantmen sailing under English colours. From 1810 to 1842