Explain what you think the author is saying, and discuss why the ideas found in the quotation might be historically important or interesting.
Dr. Veraswami (Burmese Days): “My friend, it is pathetic to me to hear you talk so. It is truly pathetic. You say you are here to trade? Of course, you are. Could the Burmese trade for themselves? Can they make machinery, ships, railways, roads? They are helpless without you. What would happen to the Burmese forests if the English were not here? They would be sold immediately to the Japanese, who would gut them and ruin them. Instead of which, in your hands, actually they are improved. And while your businessmen develop the resources of our country, your officials are civilizing us, elevating us to their level, from pure public spirit. It is a magnificent record of self-sacrifice.”
