Life of Ahmad — Page 719
as A CITIZEN OF THE EMPIRE 719 active cooperation with the rightful authorities in the cause of law and order. By precept as well as personal example he always remained even under the most trying circumstances, a model for all law-abiding and peaceful citizens of the country. This does not, however, mean that his vision was confined to his immediate surroundings or that it could ever be wholly coloured by any local situation of the moment. He saw everything in its true perspective and always had a balanced view of things. He never lost the true sense of proportion, nor could he be swayed by any passing sentiment into an extreme attitude. In fact, the source of his strength and guidance was God Himself; he relied upon Him and Him alone. He was grateful to God for having raised him in an empire which was best fitted for his mission. There was perfect liberty of conscience and men were absolutely free to profess and practise any religion they liked. For this he always felt indebted to the British also, because he who is not grateful to man is not grateful to God. But his loyalty was always dignified and honourable and his gratitude never degenerated into flattery or servility. He sought and expected no reward or recognition. He was thoroughly sincere and a true well-wisher. He hated hypocrisy and always inculcated a straight-forward course. The British were now suddenly plunged into a war in South Africa. The Transvaal Government presented an ultimatum to Mr. Cunygham Green, the British agent at Pretoria, and demanded an answer within 48