“The objection to you is principally based on the fact that you have been to England. I imagine that, as you will be actually present (or may be, if you like), it will not make any great difference to you should a brother or uncle actually repeat the formula. This is a condition on which great stress is laid, and I hope you will not arrest negotiations in limine by refusing to accede to it. Remember that we on our side have had great difficulties to smooth away, and that we have already conceded almost all that we have the power of conceding.
“Remember, also, that if you care about this alliance, it is a question of now or never, for nothing short of the urgency of the case (the Rajah going to England in March and the Ranis in despair at the idea of his going unmarried) would have brought Mr. Eden to change his mind, a thing he rarely does.
“With my regards to yourself, etc.”
Observe how in this letter Government smoothed away all my father’s objections. The marriage was to be merely a “solemn betrothal,” and hey presto! the age difficulty vanished. Concessions were certain so far as his religious scruples were concerned, but the words “now or never” throw a curious side-light upon the Government policy. The Cooch Behar-Sen alliance was necessary to them, and my father was to be finally “rushed” into giving his consent. That such was the case is shown by the following telegram from the Dewan to Babu Chuckerbutty:—
“Deputy Commissioner says can’t wait too long even if matter not published. Must have private assurances of Keshub Babu’s consent without delay. Remember preparations. 27-1-78.”
Then the delight of Babu Chuckerbutty found expression in this letter to Prosonna Babu:—
“My dear Prosonna Babu,
“Such has been the pleasure of God! and I am amongst you to re-open the question of marriage.
“Mountains and oceans stood as barriers before us, but thanks to the great Remover of all difficulties, we have managed to get over them all.
“Should we not see in all this, the hand of Him who dispenseth of everything human? We have all done all we could: it now rests finally with you as to the remainder. I have just now arrived here. I left Cooch Behar at midnight day before yesterday, and have come in at once. My present address is 6, Bhobani Dutt Lane, and my man will lead you to my house. I hope that our Maharajah is here.