h
measures? Or did they rather by these means reach the highest degree of
material development? Is it not true that for centuries, the people of
Persia have lived as we see them living today, carrying out the pattern of
the past? Have any discernible benefits resulted, has any progress been
made? If these things had not been tested by experience, some in whose
minds the light of native intelligence is clouded, might idly question
them. On the contrary, however, every aspect of these prerequisites to
progress have in other countries been time and again put to the test, and
their benefits demonstrated so plainly that even the dullest mind can
grasp them.

Let us consider this justly and without bias: let us ask ourselves which
one of these basic principles and sound, well-established procedures would
fail to satisfy our present needs, or would be incompatible with Persia's
best political interests or injurious to the general welfare of her
people. Would the extension of education, the development of useful arts
and sciences, the promotion of industry and technology, be harmful things?
For such endeavor lifts the individual within the mass and raises him out
of the depths of ignorance to the highest reaches of knowledge and human
excellence. Would the setting up of just legislation, in accord with the
Divine laws which guarantee the happiness of society and protect the
rights of all mankind and are an impregnable proof against assault--would
such laws, insuring the integrity of the members of society and their
equality before the law, inhibit their prosperity and success?

Or if by using one's perceptive faculties, one can draw analogies from
present circumstances and the conclusions arrived at by collective
experience, and can envisage as coming realities situations now only
potential, would it be unreasonable to take such present measures as would
guarantee our future security? Would it seem shortsighted, improvident and
unsound, would it constitute a deviation from what is right and proper, if
we were to strengthen our relationships with neighboring countries, enter
into binding treaties with the great powers, foster friendly connections
with well-disposed governments, look to the expansion of trade with the
nations of East and West, develop our natural resources and increase the
wealth of our people?

Would it spell perdition for our subjects if the provincial and district
governors were relieved of their present abs