A vindication of Gen. Richard Smith, chairman of the select committee of the House of Commons : As to his competency to preside over and direct, an investigation into the best mode of providing the investment for the East India Company's homeward-bound Bengal ships. To which are added, some instances to prove, that the general is not that proud, insolent, and irascible man, his enemies would induce the public to believe him to be. As also, a few serious hints to the select committee, tending to shew, that they are wasting their time in the minutiæ of Asiatic commerce, whilst the great outlines and consequential branches, are in danger of being overlooked.