For years Burke had been watching India.

With rising wonder, amazement, and indignation he had steadily followed that long train of intrigue and crime which had ended in the consolidation of a new empire.

With the return of Hastings he felt that the time had come for striking a severe blow, and making a signal example.

He gave notice (June 1785) that he would, at a future day, make a motion respecting the conduct of a gentleman just returned from India.
Among minor considerations, we have to remember that Indian affairs entered materially into the great battle of parties.

It was upon an Indian bill that the late ministry had made shipwreck.