The Times of Thursday contains an article which suggests that
the Government do not expect Lord Ripon to remain in India. He would be most unwise to do so, for he has evidently one of those constitutions to which a " chill " in the tropics brings fever,—perhaps the only constitution which is incapable of enduring hot climates, even for a time. " Chills " are un- avoidable with such men, often striking them merely from a fall in the thermometer ; and however much Lord Ripon's friends may regret such an interruption to his career, he will do well to return. The Times hints that Lord Dufferin will suc- ceed to the Viceroyalty, and there could be but one better appointment. If Mr. Goschen would take a peerage, and go to India, we should for the first time have a chance of a thorough and permanent reform in Indian finance. We have had almost every kind of Governor-General, except a great financier with ideas beyond mere reduction of expenses on public works. Lord Dnfferin would govern well, and perhaps put into the Services a certain "heart," just now greatly wanted ; but he does not pretend to Mr. Goschen's capacity for revising taxation, clearing accounts, and solving a problem like that presented by the loss on exchange.
Previous page
