| Description | He apologises for not writing, and was called away that morning by an invitation from Mr. Blythe [Edward Blyth] of the Asiatic Society [of Bengal], who seems ready to help William in zoology. William is distracted by several things, including unpacking, as his traps have arrived. The packing was well done, but he notes the breakage of glass scales and an exhausting cylinder in the tool chest. The object glass had a brass top fitted, luckily, since the tin case was stove in. He notes a few items that he wants including Whatman's photographic paper. He has been working towards examination to render him eligible for public service and he has decided to read for honours, giving his reasons. He passed head of the list in Bengalese language and he has only three months to learn a perfectly new language without books or assistance, and one which he has never heard spoken. He gives a message for Johnny [John Herschel] saying that he must pass by Christmas if he wishes to see William in India. He intends to contribute to house rent with his uncle or go into lodgings. He has dismissed his bearer after discovering that he had witheld wages from servants and not paid bills, and William has threatened to take him before the police if he does not pay the debts. |