He directed all his efforts towards the production in English and in the more important native tongues of school books, which were recognized by the Government. He wrote pamphlets and tracts on all important questions, including all the phases of the ever varying religious life of India.

He was once decorated with the “Kaisai-i-Hind Order” gold medal for public service rendered in India.²⁶

Through the Christian Literature Society, Dr. Murdoch encouraged by Lord Northbrook (the then Governor-General) wrote and published school and reading books in most of the languages of India.²⁷

“No man has done more during a long lifetime for pure literature in India, Ceylon and China than Dr. Murdoch.”²⁸

16. REV. ROBERT-DE-NOBILI

In September, 1577, Robert-de-Nobili was born in Rome, as the first child of Count Pier Francesco-de-Nobili and Lady Clarice Cioli. His parents were of noble descent. His uncle was the famous “Cardinal Robert” popularly called the “Little Cardinal”. Robert-de-Nobili's aunt Caterina was a rich and influential widow who undertook to educate Robert along with her own grandson. They first had private tutors but later went to school and college at Rome. His aunt's spiritual adviser who had introduced severe reforms for self discipline and abstention of intoxicating drinks made a deep impression on young Robert.

When he was 17, Robert wished to join the Jesuit Mission. His father had died; so he had to obtain permission from his guardian Cardinal Francesco Sforza who refused the necessary permission.

26. Julius Richter. op. cit. P. 239.

27. George Smith. The Conversion of India, From Pantaenus to the Present Time A.D. 193-1893, P. 179.

28. Ibid. P. 180.