It has not all been due to Lord Reading, of
course, any More than to the experimental reforms which he has so loyally carried out and supported wherever possible. But it is safe to say that a less brilliant and laborious Viceroy would almost inevitably have failed to check some disruptive force which would have gained great strength. Measured by its difficulties, Lord Reading's term has been a magnificent success. Let us add a grateful tribute to Lady Reading, who also has triumphed over difficulties—those, in her case, of severe illness. We most heartily wish well to their successors, Lord and Lady :Irwin. His high character most of all, but also his .ability and political experience (to say nothing of a detail like his opportune enthusiasm for agriculture), lead us to ,expect much of Lord Irwin. We regret that he should be met by disorder in Calcutta, where religious strife between Moslems and Hindus has led to violence and street fighting. We trust that it is only a momentary flash, but such signs are a reminder to those who need one of smouldering fires, and a warning to those who dream of Indian self-government in the immediate future. The presence of a strong and impartial power is still vitally necessary for the sake of peace among the races that make .up India. *. *
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