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

54 AISTORYV OF THE PARSIS. [CHAP, II.

large tank at Khetvadi in Bombay, which up to this day bears his name, was the gift of his generosity. It was built in the year 1776, and in those days supplied a want by which thousands of poor people were benefited with the blessmg of one of the greatest necessaries of life. This large tank was repaired at the expense of the Patel’s family up to 1834, from which year the Government voluntarily undertook its maintenance. The well-known street in the fort of Bombay, “ Kavasji Patel Street,” was named after him. Kavasji died in the year 1799, and was succeeded in the title of Patel and his other offices by his son Sorabji.

Hirjibhai Rastamji Kavasji Patel, a name not unknown in the highest circles of London society, was the last of the distinguished members of the Patel family. He was one of the most extensive merchants in China, and went at a later period to England to press upon the English Government some claims which he fancied he had against it for losses during the China wat.

After the Patels the Banaji family next claims our notice. Banaji Limji was the founder of this distinguished family. He was born in the village of Bhagvadandi, near Surat, and came to Bombay in the year 1690. At first he accepted employment in the commercial establishment of the Honourable East India

Company, but being imbued with a spirit for com-