A Journal from the Year 1811 Till the Year 1815, Including a Voyage to and Residence in India (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1839. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... gone, but his strength much reduced.--All day, our bungalow was crowded with people.--Sir G. had the usual party to dinner.--I was very unwell. 4th. Went out on an elephant, with Sir G. Very unwell all the time.--My brother almost as well as ever, but he looks very much reduced.--Sir G. read prayers.--A great many gentlemen called in the evening; Sir G., Fortescue, and I, dined with General Champagne--the rest of the staff was otherwise engaged. 5th. Rose before day.--As soon as it was light, wrote letters, notes, &c. till 7.--After breakfast settled many other matters, preparatory to taking leave of Cawnpore.--Gentlemen, &c. business, &c. all the morning.--About 5, thunder and rain. It was a heavy shower and lasted some time. Our delight is quite indescribable. I cried out, " Here is real rain " The air afterwards was close and oppressive, but still there was something in the feel, that gave relief to our spirits. I did not know, whether I was most inclined to laugh or cry.--All our family engaged out, and my brother dined with Sir G. and me; he looks ill, but is without complaint.--Fortescue is also now quite well. 6th. Sir G. and my brother went out on the elephant.--I wrote, &c. till breakfast time.--Not a breath of air, but dark clouds, and distant thunder, promise rain.--From 10 till 12, a little drizzling rain; the air not much cooled, but greatly softened by it.--Crowded with visitors, and Vakeels, all the morning. About 5, we had a Snakeman, to charm some snakes out of the garden. His dress was very curious. He played on a pipe, the tone of which greatly resembled the note of a bird. An immense snake soon made its appearance, from a hedge round the garden; he seized him by the back of the neck, and put him into a bag. He then induced a large cobra capel...