| Description | He apologises for sending letters letters via Marseilles, explaining the reasons. He has been 'working...up to an incredible pitch of Bengalism' for an examination, and could not write, giving details of the steamship delivering letters. He acknowledges receipt of Lina's, and one from his father who has advised him against photography for now, and is sending him acids. He hopes his analysis book, filtering paper and Theophrastus have been found. He has a copy of 'The Queen's Wake' signed by the Ettrick Shepherd [James Hogg], a gift from Dr Ross. William asks Caroline about her Scottish travels, including from Balmoral. He has the daguerreotype of her by Uncle John [Stewart] and has had a miniature taken to wear in a ring. His father seems to dread a longer residence in Calcutta for William, but he is getting used to the place, describing his social life including with Miss Cochrane. He plays billiards, cards, and goes shooting. His examiner, Krishna Mohun Banerjee is ill, and so the examiniation results are not available, but he has hopes of succeeding. Two of his college companions have changed circumstances, Blomefield Lane marrying, and William attended Ravenshaw's wedding to Miss Thompson yesterday. He is intending to send some orchids to Mr Maclaren, but he has halted his gathering of curiosities for the family. His uncle Duncan [Stewart] will write to his father concerning a microscope, which William may become the ultimate owner of, since Duncan is not steadfast with his hobbies. He has received the Athenaeum, but has been unable to get his letter at the Post Office, due to the crowds.
A postscript, From Meg Crowe to Isabella Herschel, gives thanks for her long letter. |