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

CHAP. I.] AGENT FOR FRENCH GOVERNMENT. 75

tions he had four ships of his own, and was agent in Bombay for the French Government.

His son, Jehangir Nasarvanji Wadia, greatly extended his father’s trade, and became broker to several European mercantile firms of his day, among which was that of Messrs. Nicol and Company, which up toa recent date was one of the most flourishing in Bombay. He was also agent to French vessels of trade and men-of-war which visited that port. His services in this capacity were highly appreciated by the French Government, who honoured him with a handsome medal engraved with the effigy of His Majesty the King Louis Philippe.’

* The following is an English translation of the letter which was addressed to Jehangir Nasarvanji Wadia :—

Paris, Nov. 28, 1839.

Sir—I have reported to the king the interest you haye taken in favour of our traders at Bombay, and likewise the zeal and generous disinterestedness with which you have received His Majesty’s men-ofwar which visited Bombay.

His Majesty has ordered me to express to you his high satisfaction for such honourable conduct, and to offer you, as a testimony of his regard, a medal engraved with his royal effigy.

I am happy, sir, to be, in this circumstance, the interpreter of the King, and I have entrusted Mons. Adolphe Barrot, Consul General for the Philippine Islands, who on his way to Manilla has to visit Bombay, with the flattering mission to you, to put in your hands the medal which is destined for you.

Receive, sir, the assurance of my distinguished consideration.

(Signed) MarsHat Douxe or Danmarra, The Minister Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs. President of Council.

To JeHANGIR NASARVANJI Want, Merchant.