Let's analyze the question which asks about the province where Elphinstone served as Governor during the period 1819-27. This question relates to the administrative history of British India.

Mountstuart Elphinstone was a significant figure in the administration of British India in the early 19th century. He held important positions in different parts of the subcontinent.

Elphinstone's Governorship in India

Mountstuart Elphinstone served as the Governor of the Bombay Presidency from 1819 to 1827. His tenure as Governor of Bombay was marked by administrative reforms and the establishment of educational institutions.

Let's look at the options provided:

• Bombay: Mountstuart Elphinstone was indeed the Governor of Bombay Presidency during the specified period (1819-1827).
• North West Frontier Province: The North West Frontier Province was established much later, towards the end of the 19th century.
• Madras: While Madras was another major presidency, Elphinstone was not its Governor.
• Bengal: Bengal was a very important presidency, but Elphinstone did not serve as its Governor during this period.

Based on historical records, Mountstuart Elphinstone's governorship from 1819 to 1827 was in the Bombay province.

Confirmation of Elphinstone's Role

Mountstuart Elphinstone is well-known for his role in expanding British influence after the Third Anglo-Maratha War and subsequently administering the acquired territories, which were largely incorporated into the Bombay Presidency. His policies aimed at consolidating British rule while also introducing some progressive measures.

Therefore, the province where Elphinstone was the Governor from 1819 to 1827 was Bombay.

Revision Table: Key Governors and Provinces

Additional Information on British Indian Administration

During the period in question (1819-27), British India was primarily administered through three major presidencies: Bengal, Madras, and Bombay. Each presidency had its own Governor, who was responsible for its administration, revenue collection, and judicial matters, under the overall supervision of the Governor-General (initially of Bengal, later of India). The presidencies evolved over time with territorial additions and administrative changes.