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

CHAP. II.] TRUE LIBERALITY. 103

Invalides at Paris, and Greenwich and Chelsea Hospitals near London. The former afforded education only to those who participated in the founder’s faith ; the latter were for the worn-out soldiers and sailors of the kings who established them. Far be it from me to undervalue these noble foundations; but I cannot help remarking that Sir Jamshedji’s benefactions, with the sole exception, I believe, of the Parsi Benevolent Institution, are made to the entire community, not for Parsis only, but for Hindus, Jews, Christians, and Mahomedans. It is this catholic character of Sir Jamshedji’s benevolence—his sympathy for the poor and suffering of all castes and creeds—that has won for him the universal respect and esteem of all classes of the community.”

Adverting to the question of the statue, Lord Elphinstone said :—

“T hear that some object to a statue. It would be more consistent, they say, with the character of the man whom we seek to honour to make our tribute assume the shape of a work of charity than a work of art. I am unable to concur in this view. In the first place, I would remark that Sir Jamshedji has anticipated us in every work of charity with which we might seek to connect his name. We have already hospitals, ‘dharmshalas, educational institutions, tanks, causeways, and I know not how many other things,

intended for the relief and instruction and convenience