| Description | He writes from his thirteenth station in seventeen years and is soon to go to another, he believes. As far as he can see, he has reached the limit of his service and will continue 'until the purse is heavy enough to let us come home'. They will stay if called by duty, but the tone that government has adopted towards him relieves him of doubt about his prospects.He declined a judgeship, thinking himself better fitted for executive work, and was offered the collectorship of Dacca [Dhaka], as nothing better was available. Simpson, the Commissioner of Dacca, was intending to go on leave and said he would be pleased if William could act for him. William wrote to Grey, but received no reply, except an offer of the judgeship of Nuddea. He accepted this and learned that the Commissionership had been given to [Ross Lowis] Mangles, a Victoria Cross holder, with more worldly knowledge than William, but with less working experience. William wonders what it is that Julia [Herschel] has published 'that is making such a name' and asks for a copy to be sent ['A handbook of Greeek lace making' (1870)]. He concludes by noting that the McNeiles are staying, and he must play host. |