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the native languages; and, when selected with
reference to their peculiar qualifications for the
duties of the office, were necessarily able to bring
to bear upon every subject connected with legislation
 for India much useful knowledge and practical
 experience; and, in questions peculiarly
affecting their respective presidencies, had the
advantage of being practically acquainted with
local usages, and with the habits and prejudices
of the people.

The decentralization of the legislatures was,
however, again demanded by the presidencies for
various reasons; and, in 1861, this was effected in
a manner which, while it gave sufficient powers to
the local governments, maintained the supremacy
and authority of the Central Government over the
whole country.

CHAPTER V.

COVERNMENT UNDER THE CROWN,

Transfer of the Government in 1858.

The deplorable events which occurred in the
year 1857, decided Parliament to resume the direct
administration of India in the name of Her Majesty
the Queen ; to extinguish the East India Company ;
and to alter the form of Government in accordance
with the altered state of affairs.