c^Tx 
 
SIX YEARS' DIARY 
 
 JAMES SLATOE GUMMING, ESQ., 
 
 A LIEUTENANT IN HER MAJESTY'S 9TH FOOT, 
 
 soldg for !}ts oton Emprobtnunt, 
 
 FOB HE SAYS, 
 
 " There is a kind of satisfaction in keeping up a connection with fleeting 
 Time ; I shall thereby be able to consider what have been my thoughts and 
 habits in the different stages of life, and thus determine WHETHER MY FEELINGS 
 
 ARE TO BE THOSE OF PLEASURE OR REGRET." July 3rd, 1839. 
 
 OF THE AUTHOR, A DISTINGUISHED OFFICER WRITES, 
 
 " There was this consolation, no one ever left this world better prepared to 
 die ; he was, indeed, charming in every way : / considered him faultless." 
 
 " Woe to them that trust in chariots, because they are many ; and in horse- 
 men, because they are very strong. But they look not to the Holy One of Israel , 
 neither seek the Lord." 
 
 " Turn ye unto him, from whom the children of Israel have deeply revolted." 
 
 ISAIAH c. xxxi. v. 1 and 6. 
 
 LONDON : 
 MARTIN & HOOD, PRINTERS AND LITHOGRAPHERS, 
 
 8, GREAT NEWPORT STREET. 
 1847. 
 
 PRICE TO SUBSCRIBERS, TWENTY SHILLINGS. 
 

 
 MORSE STEPH 
 
LIST OF SUBSCRIBERS 
 
 HER GRACIOUS MAJESTY QUEEN ADELAIDE. 
 
 HER ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUCHESS OP GLOUCESTER. 
 
 Lady Elizabeth Alexander, Fitzwilliam Square, Dublin. 
 
 Lady Catherine Brownlow, Merrion Square, Dublin. 
 
 Lady Blaney, Kingstown, Dublin. 
 
 Lady Grace Gore, Brunswick Square, Brighton. 
 
 Lady Harriet Forde, Hollymont, Downpatrick. 
 
 Lady Meredith, Rutland Square, Dublin. 
 
 Lady MacNaughten, Surrey House, Hyde Park Place. 
 
 Mrs. Ryves, Ryves Castle, Brighton. 
 
 Mrs. A. H. Shirlock, Liverpool. 
 
 Mrs. Conner, Summer Hill, Dublin. 
 
 Mrs. Jackson, Baker Street, Portman Square, London (2 copies). 
 
 Mrs. Burrell, Oriel Terrace, Cheltenham. 
 
 Mrs. Bagot Nolan, Bong's Town, Dublin. 
 
 Mrs. Mathews, Spring Vale, Harcourt Street, Dublin. 
 
 Mrs. Chambers, Eastry, Kent. 
 
 511661 
 
IV 
 
 FIELD MARSHAL His ROYAL HIGHNESS PRINCE ALBERT, K.G.K.I., KR, 
 
 K.C.B., K.C.M.G., and Chancellor of the University of Cambridge. 
 FIELD MARSHAL His ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUKE OP CAMBRIDGE, K.G , 
 
 G.C.B., G.C.H., and G.C.M.G. 
 His ROYAL HIGHNESS PRINCE GEORGE OF CAMBRIDGE, M.G., K.G., and 
 
 G.C.M.G. 
 Field Marshal The Marquis of Anglesea, K.G., G.C.B., G.C.H., and Master 
 
 General of the Ordnance. 
 
 The Most Noble the Marquis of Lansdowne, K.G., President of the Council. 
 The Most Noble the Marquis of Ormonde, Castle, Kilkenny. 
 The Right Hon. the Earl of Auckland, G.C.B., First Lord of the Admiralty. 
 The Earl of Roden, Tullymore Park, Downshire. i 
 
 The Right Hon. the Earl of Haddington, Tynnyngham House, N.B. (2 copies). 
 The Right Hon. the Earl of Ripon, Nocton Park, Lincolnshire. 
 The Right Hon. Earl Fortescue, F.R.S., Castle Hill, Devonshire. 
 The Earl of Cardigan, Dean Park, Northamptonshire (2 copies). 
 The Earl of Ellesmere, Worsley Hall, Lancashire (2 copies). 
 The Earl of Fingall, Killeen Castle, Meathshire. 
 The Viscount Morpeth, First Commissioner of Woods and Forests, Grosvenor 
 
 Place, London. 
 
 Lord Sandys, Ombersley Court, "Worcestershire. 
 Lord Doneraile, Doneraile House, Co. Cork. 
 Lord Monteagle, F.R.S., F.S.S., Mount Trenchard, Co. Limerick. 
 Lord Plunkett, Ex- Chancellor, Old Connaught, Bray, 
 Lord Cloncurry, Lyons Castle, Kildare. 
 General Lord Aylmer., G.C.B., Eaton Square. 
 
 Lieutenant- General Lord Fitzroy Somerset, K.C.B., Military Secretary 
 The Hon. General Meade, Earsham House, Suffolk. 
 Right Hon. and Hon. Sidney Herbert, Wilton House, Salisbury. 
 Hon. W. J. Melville, E.I.D., George Street, Hanover Square. 
 Right Hon. Sir Robert Peel, Bart., F.R.S., F.S.S., Drayton Manor, 
 The Hon. and Rev. Edward Taylor, Rutland Square, Dublin. 
 Right Hon. Richard Lalor Shiel, Master of the Mint (2 copies). 
 Right Hon. Henry Labouchere, Chief Secretary of Ireland, The Lodge, Pho3nix 
 
 Park, Dublin. 
 
 The Right Hon. George Robert Dawson, D.C.C , Grosvenor Street, London. 
 The Right Hon. the Lord Bishop of Kildare, Glasnevin House, Dublin. 
 The Right Hon. Lord Robert Ponsonby, Tottenham. 
 
 Bishop of Clogher, Woodstock, Wicklow. 
 
 The Right Rev. and Hon. the Lord Bishop of Killaloe, Clarisford House, Killaloe. 
 
 The Right Rev. the Lord Bishop of Chester, Palace, Chester. 
 
 The Rev. the Provost of Trinity College, Dublin. 
 
 The Rev. the Vice-Provost of Trinity College, Dublin. 
 
 The Very Rev. Thomas William Lowe, the Dean of Exeter. 
 
 The Rev. Dr. Mac Donnel, S.F.I. C^ Dublin. 
 
 The Venerable the Archdeacon of Dublin. 
 
 The Venerable the Archdeacon of Bath. 
 
 The Venerable the Archdeacon of Killaloe. 
 
 The Rev. Sir Richard Wollesley, Bart., Cheltenham. 
 
The Rev. Sir Harcourt Lees, Bart., Rector of Killany, Black Rock, Dublin. 
 
 The Rev. Sir James King, Bart., Rector of Rathmore, Killany 
 
 The Rev. Francis Brownlow, Merrion Square, Dublin. 
 
 The Rev. Robert Lovett, Rectory of Trinity, Bath (2 copies). 
 
 The Rev. J. S. Ogle, Kirkley Hall, Northumberland. 
 
 The Rev. W. Stanier, D.D., Rector of St. Saviour's, Bath. 
 
 The Rev. J. B. Sterling, Rector of Enniskeen, Gardiner's Place, Dublin. 
 
 The Rev. George Hickson, Vicar of Mageracloone, King's-court 
 
 The Rev. John Day, Rector of Valentia, Caherciveen. 
 
 The Rev. James Charleton, Rector of Clonmacnois, Ferbane. 
 
 The Rev. Walter Burgh, Prebend of Tipper and Vicar of Naas. 
 
 The Rev. Dr. Staveley, Prebend of Tipper Kevin. 
 
 The Rev. George Farr, Cornwall. 
 
 The Rev. Dr. Surridge, Felstead. 
 
 The Rev. G. Evans, Cheltenham, 
 
 The Rev. Sidney H. H. Widdrington, Rector of Walcot, Bath. 
 
 The Rev. Edward Willes, Pulteney Street, Bath. 
 
 The Rev. Mr. Herbert, Kernane, Killarney. 
 
 The Rev. J. B. Tyrwhit, Rector of Wilkesby, Killarney. 
 
 The Rev. W. Mansell, Rector of Kilmurray, Limerick. 
 
 The Rev. H. M. Montague, Clifton. 
 
 The Rev. G. M. Dennis, Mullingar. 
 
 The Rev. Edward Geraghty, Prebend, Newcastle, Co. Limerick. 
 
 The Rev. J. Purdon, Liverpool. 
 
 The Rev. Mr. Stafford, Rector of St. Paul's, Liverpool. 
 
 The Rev. J. Rutledge, Great George Street, Dublin. 
 
 The Rev. James Taylor, Rector of Clifton. 
 
 The Rev. John Warburton, Rector of Kill, Naas. 
 
 The Rev. James Mathews, Rector of Rathcork, Enfield. 
 
 The Right Hon. David Pigott, Chief Baron in Ireland. 
 
 The Hon. Mr. Justice Crampton, St. Valery, Wicklow. 
 
 The Hon. Judge Burton, Stephens Green, Dublin. 
 
 The Hon. Baron Lefroy, Leeson Street, Dublin. 
 
 The Hon. Baron Jackson, Leeson Street, Dublin. 
 
 The Right Hon. Richard Keating, Judge of the Prerogative Court, Merrion 
 
 Square, Dublin. 
 
 Dr. Radcliffe, Judge of the Consistorial Court, Mount Street, Dublin. 
 Right Hon. Richard Green, late Attorney-General, Stephens Green, Dublin. 
 Edward Litton, Esq., Master-in-Chancery, Great George Street, Dublin 
 
 (4 copies). 
 
 Alexander Hamilton, Esq., L.L.D., Rutland Square, Dublin. 
 Loftus Bland, Esq., Bart., Fitzwilliam Street, Dublin. 
 Henry Alexander, Esq., Bart. Half-moon Street, London. 
 E. Hayes, Esq., Bart., Mountjoy Square, Dublin. 
 E. R. Hutson, Esq., Barrister, Temple, London. 
 J. Boyle, Esq., Barrister, Temple, London. 
 
 General Francis Moore, Russell Street, Bath. 
 
 General Sir H. F. Campbell, K.C.B., K.C.H., 25th Foot, Lowndes-sq., London. 
 
VI 
 
 General John Vincent, 69th Foot, Pall Mall. 
 Sir William Keir Grant, K.C.B., K.C.H., 2nd Dragoons, Brighton. 
 Sir Henry J. Gumming, K.C.H., 12th Lancers, Grosvenor Street. 
 Sir Lewis Grant, K.C.H., 96th Foot, Harley Street. 
 Right Hon. Sir Edward Blakeney, K.C.B., K.C.H., and Commander-in-Chief in 
 
 Ireland. 
 
 Admiral Sir James Hawkins Whitshed, Bart. G.C.B., Cavendish Square. 
 Sir James Dalbiac, K.C.H., 4th Dragoons. 
 Sir Thomas Arbuthnot, K.C.B., 9th Foot (2 copies). 
 Sir John Buchan, K.C.B., 32nd Foot, Upper Harley Street. 
 Sir William C. Eustace, C.B., K.C.H., Samford Hall, Essex. 
 Sir Henry King, C.B., K.C.B., Westbourne Terrace. 
 Major-General Sir De Lacy Evans, K.C.B., M.P., Bryanstone Square. 
 Major-General Sir William Gossett, K.C.H., House of Commons. 
 Major-General Sir Harry Smith, K.C.B., the Hero of Aliwal.. 
 Major-General Thomas, Welbeck Street, London. 
 Major-General Robert H. Birch, R. Art., Leeson Street, Dublin. 
 Sir William De Bathe, Bart. Portman Square, London. 
 Major-General Sir Richard England, K.C.B.. K.H. 
 Major-General John Owens, C.B., K.H., D.A.G. Marines, and Ad. C. to the 
 
 Queen, New Street, Spring Gardens. 
 Sir Join Eustace, K.H., Brighton. 
 
 Colonel Berkeley Drummond, Scots F. Gds., Charles Street 
 Sir Henry Pynn, C.B., Brighton. 
 Sir T. M. J. Smith, K.H., Royal Engineers, Chatham. 
 Major-General M. White, E.I.C.S., Bath. 
 Major-General George R. Kemp, Spring Lodge, Lewes. 
 Major-General Whish, Clifton. 
 
 Sir Henry Pottinger, Bart. G.C.B., Governor of Cape of Good Hope. 
 Major-General Robert Teickle, C.B. Cheltenham. 
 Captain Hamilton, R.N., Secretary to the Admiralty. 
 Captain Neame, R.N., Custom House, Dublin. 
 Captain Saurin, R.N., C.C., Wilton Crescent, Belgrave Square. 
 Colonel Brown, C.P., Dublin. 
 Colonel McGregor, C. Const. Castle, Dublin. 
 Captain Stevenson, Upper Brook Street. 
 Captain Ogle, late 9th Foot, Eaton Place. 
 Captain Linskill, late 5th Dragoon Guards. 
 Captain Sweetman, Morcliffe, Exeter. 
 Thomas Leonard Leader, Esq., 79th Highlanders. 
 Captain Shiel, Mullingar. 
 Major St. Clair, Black Rock, Dublin. 
 Major Sanky, late 9th Foot, Mount Street, Dublin. 
 Major Cockburn, Merrion Square, Dublin. 
 
 Sir William Summerville, Bart., M-P-, Summerville, Meathshire. 
 
 Sir Philip Crampton, Bart., Merrion Square, Dublin. 
 
 Sir Henry Marsh, Bart., Merrion Square, Dublin. 
 
 Sir Thomas Staples, Bart., Q. C., Merrion Square, Dublin. 
 
Vll 
 
 Sir John Conroy, Bart., Vicarage Place, Kensington. 
 
 Sir Nicholas Chinnery, Bart., Cheltenham. 
 
 Sir Henry Johnstone, Bart., Bath. 
 
 Sir Charles Coote, Bart., Bagot Street, Dublin. 
 
 Sir Robert Shaw, Bart., Bushy Park, Dublin. 
 
 Sir James Weir Hogg, Bart., Grosvenor Street, London. 
 
 Sir Charles Forbes, Bart., Fitzroy Square. 
 
 Sir Thomas Barrett Lennard, Bart., Bryanstone Square, London. 
 
 Sir Gerald Aylmer, Bart., Donodea Castle, County Kildare. 
 
 Sir Henry Lushington, Kt., Montague Square, London. 
 
 Sir John Me Neil, Kt., C.E., Whitehall Place, London (2 copies). 
 
 Sir John Kirkland, Pall Mall, London. 
 
 Colonel Gore Langton, M.P., Grosvenor Square. 
 
 George Alexander Hamilton, Esq., M.P., Hampton, Balbriggan. 
 
 J. H. Hamilton, Esq., M.P., Sheep Hill, Dublin. 
 
 Thomas Wyse, Esq., M.P., Secretary of the Board of Control, Wilton-pl., London. 
 
 W. A. Mackinnon, Esq., M.P., Hyde Park Place. 
 
 Musgrave Briscoe, Esq., M.P., Devonshire Place, London. 
 
 Evelyn John Shirley, Esq., M.P., Belgrave Square. 
 
 Daniel O'Connel, Esq., M.P., Derrynane. 
 
 Norman Macdonald, Esq., Bruton Street, London. 
 
 W. W. Bird, Esq., late Member of Council, Calcutta, Cambridge-sq., Hyde-park, 
 
 A. Billing, Esq., M.D., Park Lane, London. 
 
 Right Hon. Alexander Mac Donnel, Commissioner of Education, Dublin. 
 
 Dr. Robert Graves, Merrion Square, Dublin. 
 
 J. W. Cusack, Esq., Kildare Street, Dublin. 
 
 Joseph Ferguson, Esq., M.D., Mullingar. 
 
 George Furnell, Esq., Treasurer, County Limerick (2 copies). 
 
 William Hunt, Esq., Friarstown Abbey, Limerick (2 copies). 
 
 Michael Furnell, Esq., D.L., Limerick. 
 
 Joseph Ferguson, Esq., J.P., Abbeyleix. 
 
 J. Bayley, Esq., Bexley Heath (2 copies). 
 
 James Geraghty, Esq., Holies Street, Dublin (2 copies). 
 
 John Collard Erk, Esq., E.C.I., Fitzwilliam Square, Dublin. 
 
 W. K. Riddell, Esq., Westbourne Street, London. 
 
 Owyen Lloyd, Esq., Roscommon. 
 
 Mathew Franks, Esq., Merrion Square, Dublin. 
 
 Eneas Cannon, Esq., M.D., Cheltenham. 
 
 George Mathews, Esq., Spring Vale, Donnybrook. 
 
 John Digby Boycott, Esq., Bath. 
 
 John Cumming, Esq., Exeter. 
 
 Abraham Hillhouse, Esq., Clifton (2 copies). 
 
 Francis Short, Esq., Bristol (2 copies). , 
 
 Edward Reeves, Esq., Gay Street, Bath. 
 
 Robert Cooke, Esq., Bath. 
 
 W. J. Agg, Esq., Cheltenham. % 
 
 Joseph Pratt Tinte, Esq., Dunlavin House, Wicklow. 
 
 William Humphrys, Esq., Bally-hays House, Cavan. 
 
 M. L. Guinness, Esq., Stillargan Park, Dublin. 
 
 C. Fitz-Simon, Esq., Hamper Office, Dublin. 
 
vm 
 
 Alexander Humphrey, Esq., Temple Street, Dublin. 
 
 William Kemmis, Esq., Cr. Sr., Kildare Street, Dublin (2 copies). 
 
 H. T. Kingston, Esq., Moss-town, Longford. 
 
 William Hogan, Esq., Milltown, Dublin. 
 
 John Mayne, Esq., Dundrum, Dublin. 
 
 William D. Montmorencey, Esq., Old Court, Kilkenny. 
 
 Nicholas Westby, Esq., Men-ion Square, Dublin, and York Gate, Regent's Park, 
 
 London. 
 
 William Deey, Esq., Carrig House, Kingstown. 
 W. Gladstone, Esq., Kilcoek. 
 
 Abel Rous Dottin, Esq., A.M., Argyll Street, London. 
 Henry Alexander, Esq., E.I.D., Clarendon Place, Hyde Park, London. 
 Thomas Ardill, Esq., Fitzwilliam Square, Dublin. 
 Elliot Macnaughton, Esq., E.I.D., Monckham, Woodford. 
 John Loch, Esq., E.I.D., Morden Park, Surrey. 
 J. A. Gardner, Esq., Cheltenham. 
 William Gibbons, Esq., Bally-negaule, Westmeath, 
 Henry Hoare, Esq., Banker, Fleet Street, London. 
 S. Purdon, Esq., Tamer Terrace, Devonport. 
 
 E. Parsons, Esq., Presteigne. 
 
 J. Mac Donnald, Esq., Gloucester Place, London. 
 
 Henry Watson, Esq., High Sheriff, Limerick. 
 
 W. J. Denne, Esq., Lower Berkeley Street, Manchester Square. 
 
 Eneas Macintosh, Esq., Montague Square, London. 
 
 Edward Parry, Esq., Dorset Place, Dorset Square. 
 
 Frederick Hutchinson, Esq., Monntjoy Square, Dublin. 
 
 Henry Coates, Esq., Staplestown. 
 
 John Bury, Esq., Downings, Naas. 
 
 Henry Vereker, Esq., Upper Leeson Street, Dublin. 
 
 Nicholas Kelly, Esq., R.M. 
 
 Richard S. White, Esq., Gordon Place, London (2 copies). 
 
 John Fitzgerald, Esq., Carrick-on-Suir. 
 
 S. H. Atkins, Esq., Mallow. 
 
 James Hickson, Esq., Kenmare. 
 
 Thomas Heavyside, Esq., London. 
 
 William Sams, Esq., Clare, Suffolk. 
 
 Ambrose A. Cookson, Esq., M.D. Gloucester. 
 
 John Wilkins, Esq., Bristol. 
 
 F. A. Staughton, Esq., Old Kent House, Stroud. 
 Samuel Lucas, Esq., Bristol. 
 
 Francis Nalder, Esq., London. 
 
 H. G. White, Esq., Sackville Street, Dublin. 
 
 James Light, Esq., Dublin. 
 
 Samuel P. Lea, Esq., St. Patrick's, Dublin. 
 
 Edward Gaffin, Esq., London. 
 
 A. Scott, Esq., Harcourt Street, Dublin. 
 
 T. Gresham, Esq., Dublin. 
 
 George Knox, Esq., Brownstoun House, Kildare. 
 

 SUBSCRIBERS, whose Names were received too late. 
 
 HER ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUCHESS OF KENT. 
 
 His Grace the Duke of Buccleuch, K.G. F.R.S., Whitehall Gardens. 
 
 Earl Spencer, (Lord Chamberlain) St. James's Place. 
 
 Earl Brownlow, F.R.S., F.S.A., Belgrave Square. 
 
 Lieutenant- General Lord Saltoun, K.C.B., Great Cumberland Street. 
 
 Lord Brougham and Vaux, F.R.S., Grafton Street, and Brougham Hall, 
 
 Westmoreland. 
 Right Hon. Earl of Harrowby. 
 
 '3*^~-~/' /*- 
 
 Sir Matthew BalSghj Bart., Stephen Green, Dublin. 
 ? 
 
 N.B. Many distinguished individuals patronize the work by promising to take 
 it, although they, from a general rule, do not give their names. 
 
DEDICATED 
 
 TO 
 
 LT.-GEN. SIR THOS. ARBUTHNOT, K.C.B., 
 
 COLONEL OF HER MAJESTY'S 9ra FOOT. 
 
 The posthumous miscellaneous journal of James Slator 
 Gumming, Esq., late a lieutenant in that distinguished 
 corps, commencing with his departure from Gravesend 
 to Calcutta, and marching thence to Hazarebagh, Delhi, 
 Agra, and Meerut ; together with the route of the regi- 
 ment from thence through the Punjaub, up to the suc- 
 cessful forcing of the Khybur Pass, on the 5th of April, 
 1842, which led to the vindication of the recently 
 tarnished honour of our arms in Affghanistan, and the 
 restoration to liberty, and home, and friends, of our 
 captives, from the grasp of bondage in which they were 
 held by Akbar Khan. 
 
 As this is the daily and hasty, though calculated to be 
 the enduring produce of the leisure hours of a very young 
 officer, commencing when he was only seventeen years of 
 age, and ending on the night before his lamented fall, and 
 the evening previous to his attaining his twenty-third year ; 
 and as it seems to have been written only for the exercise 
 
of his own mental improvement, and not for public perusal, 
 it is hoped that it will meet with indulgence and approba- 
 tion ; and yet it may afford a field for deep reflection to all 
 who read it, being replete with useful variety, and calcu- 
 lated to convey much mental gratification to every intellec- 
 tual and Christian reader, but more especially the young 
 officers, for whom it is specially intended, setting them an 
 example of the greatest regularity and strictest temperance 
 an example of never permitting any avocation, to inter- 
 fere with the calls or sacred claims of duty. 
 
 To it is added, the daily and minute journal of *a march 
 during the Affghan campaign, after the Cabul disasters, 
 through the entire of the Punjaub, lately the seat of war ; 
 comprising incidents and circumstances, and details of 
 matters and plans connected with the chain of events, 
 which, under the blessing of God, has protected the 
 British subjects from the hostile invasion, and must at the 
 present time especially, but at all times hereafter, be read 
 with considerable interest. 
 
 It is, besides, a simple detail, with the advantage of 
 being strictly true, and in consequence, under God's 
 blessing, may be the means of improving, enlightening, 
 and elevating the youthful aspirants to honour and glory 
 the young men of the rising generation, who enter the 
 service of their country, and lead their minds to the con- 
 templation of Him, whose glory is manifest in his works. 
 Heroes, with their Bibles in their hands, and its spirit in 
 their hearts, proclaiming the Redeemer in their lives, and 
 raising them to the elevation and purity of character,, con- 
 ferred on the author, by the unanimous judgment of his 
 brothers in arms, who had ample opportunity of knowing 
 him well for six years, and who declare him to have been a 
 hero and a Christian, a judgment which they have handed 
 down to succeeding ages, by an imperishable record, in 
 
XI 
 
 erecting, at considerable expense, a monument to his 
 memory, in St. Patrick's Cathedral, Dublin, and of which 
 public notice was taken in the Dublin Evening Packet, of 
 the 24th of April, 184-5, and other papers of the day, in the 
 following terms : 
 
 " Lieutenant James Slator Gumming, of Her Majesty's 
 9th Foot. 
 
 " This distinguished young Irishman, it may be recol- 
 lected, fell covered with glory in the moment of victory at 
 the successful forcing of the Khybur Pass, while gallantly 
 leading a company of that old regiment, on the heights to 
 the right of that formidable Pass, on the 5th of April, 
 1842, the day of his birth, and 23rd year of his age. 
 
 " He is described as a hero and a Christian,* presenting 
 a noble air of youthful promise, tempered with a uniform 
 gentleness and sweetness of manners. His Bible was his 
 constant companion never a day passed that he did not 
 consult it ; thence the heroical design of taking God's 
 perfections for his model. 
 
 " His brother officers and companions in arms have, on 
 the 5th instant, erected a monument to perpetuate the 
 memory of his virtues, in St. Patrick's, the principal cathe- 
 dral of his native land. It is surmounted with a figure, 
 representing Britannia weeping over her youthful hero. 
 The inscription is simple and soldier-like in the following 
 words : 
 
 * He felt proud only of the blood of scholars and heroes which 
 flowed in his veins. 
 
Xll 
 
 TO THE MEMORY OF 
 
 JAMES SLATOR GUMMING, ESQ., 
 
 A LIEUTENANT IN THE 9TH REGIMENT OF FOOT, 
 
 WHO WAS KILLED IN ACTION IN AFFGHANISTAN, AT 
 
 THE FORCING OF THE "KHYBUR PASS," 
 
 ON THE 5TH OF APRIL, 1842, 
 
 WHILE GALLANTLY LEADING A COMPANY OF THAT REG T - 
 
 AGED 23 YEARS. 
 
 THIS TABLET 
 
 OF A BRAVB SOLDIER AND A SINCERE CHRISTIAN. 
 HE WAS THE SON OF 
 
 THE REV. P. M. GUMMING, A.M., 
 
 VICAR OF MAGHERACLOONE, AND RECTOR OF PRIOR AND DROMOD. 
 
 The gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Horn. 6th chap. 
 
 " ' My gems are fading away, but I do hope and trust it is because 
 God is making up his jewels.' 
 
 " He seemed to have some strange presentiment of what 
 was about to happen, for his air and look had a profound 
 expression of devotion, though calm, happy, and cheerful." 
 
Xlll 
 
 James Slator Gumming, Esq. was the eldest son of the 
 Rev. P. M. Gumming, A.M., vicar of Magheracloone, 
 county of Monaghan, and now rector of Prior and Dro- 
 mod, county Kerry. His mother was daughter of the 
 Rev. James Slator, A.M., of Tonyn, in the county of 
 Longford, and of St. David's Castle, Naas, of which parish 
 he was the respected vicar for upwards of forty years. He 
 was born at Magheracloone House, county of Monaghan, 
 on the 5th of April, 1819. 
 
 His father, feeling that a regular and pure education 
 was one of the first of blessings, trained him up in the 
 divinely inspired pages of the Bible, as being the light to 
 our feet, and lamp to our paths, neglecting nothing calcu- 
 lated to render him good and virtuous ; the result was, 
 that he practised virtue because he loved it. 
 
 During his infant years he was under the care of a go- 
 verness, a German lady, to whom also was committed the 
 education of his three sisters, who were his elders, occasion- 
 ally assisted by his father, whenever he could steal a mo- 
 ment from the duties of a very extensive rural parish, with 
 a population exceeding 8000 souls. 
 
 In the beginning of June, 1825, his father was ordered 
 by the late Dr. Crampton to abstain from any duty, or 
 indeed, any business, from serious apprehensions, enter- 
 tained by that eminent physician, that his early demise 
 would otherwise be the consequence, having been engaged 
 during the previous winter in superintending the erection 
 of a school house, which he had endowed with an acre of 
 land, part of his glebe ; and subsequently in building a 
 handsome church, every stone of which he saw laid, and 
 almost directed the entire building, having taken upon 
 himself the responsibility of having the money expended, 
 which could not otherwise be proceeded with, so much 
 opposition was created by the hostile and vindictive feel- 
 ings of the land-agent to the principal landlord, who was 
 an everlasting absentee at the time, and, in consequence, 
 
XIV 
 
 no person could be found to conduct the building, through 
 fear of this agent's resentment. Mr. Gumming, however, 
 fearlessly took the responsibility on himself; and having 
 given security to the Bishop, drew the money, and in the 
 short space of five months removed the old, and built on 
 its site a handsome substantial, and elegant new church, which 
 remains a monument of his diligence and piety ; but from 
 anxiety and exposure to damp, both early and late, he had 
 nearly prematurely arrived at that goal, to which all must 
 come sooner or later ; and, in consequence, having previously 
 obtained license of absence, he appointed a resident curate, 
 and left home with his wife and family, and sailed from 
 Dublin on the 8th of June, 1825, in the steam-boat, Pal- 
 merston, for Bristol, on his way to Cheltenham. At day- 
 break, on the 9th of June, while all slept, they were 
 aroused by the sudden striking of the steamer, and all was 
 confusion in the gloom of twilight, rendered obscure by a 
 thick mist; and suddenly aroused from sleep, all were 
 rushing to gain the deck in uncertainty and dismay. 
 
 There were upwards of one hundred passengers, the 
 majority being soldiers the vessel having been a Govern- 
 ment contract one but besides the Rev. Father of the 
 author and his family, there were a great number of other 
 cabin passengers, among them Archdeacon Stopford, now 
 
 Bishop of Meath ; Mr. G h, son to the Dean of Derry, 
 
 and nephew to Lords Bloomfield and G h; Father 
 
 O'Connell, private chaplain to the once famous Dr. Doyle ; 
 
 R. C , Bishop of Kildare, better known as J. K. L. and 
 
 the author and fomenter of passive resistance ; and his two 
 
 nieces ; Alderman H e, of Bristol ; and the Rev. James 
 
 Taylor, vicar of Clifton. 
 
 The lamented and then infant author of the present 
 miscellaneous volume, but a volume calculated to endure, 
 then in his sixth year, when anxiously sought for by his 
 
 * The steamer struck at the foot of a rocky precipice, called Monk 
 Nash, in the Bristol Channel, on the coast of Glamorganshire. 
 
XV 
 
 father, was, it appears, the first, though a child, who started 
 from his pillow and undauntedly got on deck, and was 
 found amidst the crowd on the afterpart, shouting out to 
 those still struggling to get on deck, with as loud a voice 
 as he was capable, " A shipwreck ! a shipwreck ! get on 
 deck;" while he himself appeared quite unconscious of 
 any danger. 
 
 The family settled in Bath in the summer of 1825, where 
 every attention was paid to the minds and education of the 
 young children living under their paternal roof, still under 
 the care of a governess, assisted by masters of the best class, 
 an advantage attainable in Bath almost superior to any 
 other place, until they were unfortunate in losing their 
 amiable and angelic mother, who, after giving birth to her 
 youngest and last child, gradually sunk under the insidious 
 power of a decline to which she was constitutionally pre- 
 disposed, and without a sigh or pain yielded up the spirit 
 to Him who gave it, on the 5th of April, 1828, leaving a 
 family of five sons and three daughters to deplore their loss, 
 all of tender years, the youngest being then only nine 
 months old. To her a monument is erected in Walcot 
 church, Bath, within whose precincts are laid her precious 
 remains, and with the following true, affecting, and simple 
 inscription : 
 
 To the Memory of 
 HARRIET, the Wife of the Rev. P. M. GUMMING, A.M., 
 
 Rector of Prior and Dromod. 
 
 She was daughter of the Rev. James Slator, A.M., forty 
 
 years Vicar of Naas, and grand-daughter of the 
 
 Right Hon. Sir Edward Lovett Pearce, Kt.* 
 
 * The Right Hon. Sir Edward Lovett Pearce, Kt., was a major of 
 Dragoons, in Ireland, a Privy Councillor there, and member for the 
 Borough of Rabhoath. He built the House of Lords and Commons, 
 in Ireland considered one of the chastest buildings in Europe and 
 
XVI 
 
 She died on the 5th of April, 1828, aged 37 years, leaving 
 three infant daughters and five sons to deplore their loss. 
 
 Her daughter, CAROLINE, aged 1 1 years, 
 
 Is interred in the same tomb in this church. 
 
 The eldest son, Lieut. JAMES SLATOR, fell gloriously on 
 
 his birthday, April 5th, 1842, while gallantly leading a 
 
 company of the 9th regiment at the successful attack on 
 
 the Khybur Pass, aged 23 years. His brother officers have 
 
 erected a monument to his memory, in St. Patrick's 
 
 Cathedral, Dublin. 
 
 This Tablet is erected by an affectionate husband, to one 
 
 unaffectedly pious and amiable. 
 " Husbands, love your wives." Ephes. v. 23. 
 
 received the unanimous thanks of both houses, with a pension of 1000. 
 from the public purse a great sum in those days. See the Annals of 
 the House of Commons, 1734. He was the son of the Right Hon. 
 General Edward Pearce and Miss Lovett, one of six sisters, daughters 
 of Mr. Lovett, of Liscomb, near Woburn Abbey. He married his 
 own cousin- german, the only daughter of the Right Hon. Thomas 
 Pearce, Commander of the Forces in Ireland, Governor of Limerick, 
 and many years Member in Parliament for that Borough. Edward 
 Pearce, of Whittingham, near Norwich, in the County of Norfolk, third 
 son of Thomas Pearce, Esq., of Lewes, in Sussex, married Mary, 
 daughter of Sir Dudly Carleton, and Lucy, his wife, who was daughter 
 of Sir Herbert Croft, of Croft, in the County of Hereford, and had 
 sons and daughters ten, two of whom, Edward, the eldest, and the 
 father of Sir Edward Lovett Pearce ; and Thomas, another, were both 
 generals, and rendered essential services to their country in Queen 
 Ann's and the succeeding reigns. Of the sisters of General Thomas 
 and Edward Pearce, Lucy left three daughters, one of whom was the 
 Countess of Ross, and afterwards Lady Jocelyn ; another married Mr. 
 Secretary Johnston ; and the third, Mr. Carter, of Castle Martin, in 
 the County of Kildare, in Ireland ; and of the remaining five, Misses 
 Lovett, sisters to Mrs. General Edward Pearce, and mother of the Right 
 Hon. Sir Edward Lovett Pearce ; one married the grandfather of the 
 late Earl of Bellemont ; another, Mr. Tighe, of Woodstock, in the 
 County of Wicklow ; another, Mr. Lloyd, of Gloster, in the King's 
 County; and another, Counsellor Pratt, the ancestor of the present 
 Lord Camden. Sir Edward Lovett Pearce left four daughters co- 
 heiresses, on whom the estate of Whittingham devolved; and they 
 
XV11 
 
 Lieutenant Gumming, although uniformly gentle from his 
 youth, was nevertheless, as he advanced to maturity, devoted 
 to the service of arms. He was, notwithstanding, although 
 very cheerful, still habitually serious on religious views, 
 sincere, retiring, and pure, without being either an enthu- 
 siast, disputer, or self-righteous ; he was liberally educated 
 and accomplished ; a good horseman, a graceful and elegant 
 dancer, and an excellent cricket-player ; but knew nothing 
 
 were married severally to Mr. Lake, Mr. Rollings, Mr. Willington, 
 and Mr. Thomas, of St. Eustace Castle, Naas ; to one of whose sons, 
 Lieutenant- General Lewis Thomas, C.B., who died at Cawnpore, in 
 command in the East Indies. A handsome monument is erected in 
 the church of Naas ; and he bequeathed 20. a-year for ever to the poor 
 of Naas, his native parish. He served in India from March, 1778, to De- 
 cember, 1815 ; and received for his services the thanks of the Governor- 
 General and Council on three distinct occasions for his distinguished 
 services. The Gumming family, his nephews and nieces, are no\v the 
 proprietors of the Castle at Naas, and the adjoining premises and 
 town parks, the birth-place of their uncle, General Thomas. In 
 reference to the Right Hon. General Thomas Pearce, the following is 
 an abstract, taken from a poem, entitled " The Mourners" written ori 
 the Duke of Rutland, who died there as Lord- Lieutenant of Ireland, 
 and published the 22nd of November, 1787 : "We have no memory 
 of any funeral in a style equal to this of the Duke of Rutland, except 
 that of General Pearce, who died in the Government as one of the 
 Lords Justices of this kingdom. That gentleman was many years 
 Commander-in-chief of the army and forces in Ireland j Colonel of the 
 1st regiment of horse; Governor of Limerick; many years representa- 
 tive for that city in Parliament : and one of His Majesty's Right Hon. 
 Privy Councillors. He served abroad in the wars during the reigns of 
 King William, Queen Anne, King George I. and George II., with dis- 
 tinguished reputation, and did essential services to his country. But 
 what should render his memory inestimably dear to these kingdoms was, 
 that great and noble action (when a Captain of the Guards) of appre- 
 hending and securing, at the imminent peril of his own life, Charnock, 
 one of the chief conspirators in the assassination plot against our 
 glorious deliverer, King William III." This, from good authority, is a 
 Faithful abstract of the history and merits of the Right Hon. Lieutenant* 
 General Thomas Pearce; the late Charles William Pearce, Esq., his 
 son, attained, by successive purchases, the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel, 
 and was thirty years a Field Officer. 
 
 L> 
 
XV111 
 
 of dog-training nor snipe-shooting ; he knew no game but 
 chess, and in that he much delighted. Many, and some of 
 them excellent people, are of opinion, that a soldier cannot 
 be a Christian ; that war is a wicked and unlawful pursuit. 
 But it is humbly submitted, that the life, short as it has 
 been the practice, the sentiments, and principles of the 
 author, when read and understood by every reasonable 
 being, will be considered as a proof that a soldier not only 
 can be, but frequently is, among the most eminent Chris- 
 tians on earth, and often are the bearers of Christian light 
 among the nations to illumine heathen darkness. What senti- 
 ment more becoming the Christian breast than on the morning 
 of the 5th of April, amid the bustle, hurry, and excitement 
 of military preparations for strife and glory, to mark this 
 chivalrous young officer, although anticipating the events 
 of the day with heroic glee, yet humbly, in the first in- 
 stance, committing his soul and body, and that of his com- 
 panion,* to the care of the Most High, seeking a blessing 
 from the Lord, and. declaring, should he fall, that the 
 disposition of the clay was of no avail ; while he humbly 
 hoped the spirit may rest with God, proclaiming that 
 might comes from God alone, and that without him we are 
 nothing. Such a scene must be touching to the best, the 
 purest Christian impressions. In the New Testament the 
 military character is every where coupled with approved 
 
 * Major Borton, of the 9th. 
 
 N.B. At Ferozeshah, when the 6'2nd were ordered to retire, the 9th, 
 in reserve under the lamented Colonel Taylor, were ordered up ; they 
 advanced to the entrenchments, where the gallant Taylor fell with a 
 crowd of his men. The command devolved upon Borton, until he was 
 wounded and struck off his horse; however, he remounted, and they 
 (the 9th) carried the entrenchments. The 9th never retreat. A de- 
 tachment of them buried Sir John Moore on the ramparts of Corunna, 
 at night ; they were besides the only European regiment at the forcing 
 of the Khybur Pass. In consequence, -they were separated in com- 
 panies to lead the Sepoys, and, as usual, with success. 
 
XIX 
 
 faith, fervent prayer, feeling charity, and watchful self- 
 controul. And praised be the Lord, in this our day many 
 a land, and more especially India, sees faithful light and_ 
 genuine Christianity in those who have been sent on the 
 service of their sovereign and country, displaying not only 
 the power of their earthly sovereign, but proclaiming the 
 Redeemer, our Heavenly King, who would that all men 
 should come to the knowledge of truth, and be saved ; and 
 that not in a spirit of domination, but of brotherly love. 
 Yes, our soldiers are, blessed be God, generally now a-days 
 a blessing, commending themselves to men's consciences in 
 the fear of God, a check and a terror only to evil doers ; 
 fighting manfully, under God's banner, against disorder, 
 revolution, rapine, and the world and the devil, continuing 
 Christ's soldiers and servants to the end. St. Paul himself 
 appropriates to the Gospel all that belongs to the soldier ; 
 for when he would give the greatest force to his words, his 
 mouth is ever full of military terms, such as " the whole 
 armour of God," " the helmet of salvation," " the breast- 
 plate of righteousness," " the shield of faith," " the sword 
 of the spirit," and " feet shod with the preparation of the 
 Gospel." We do no more, therefore, than follow the 
 example of the Apostle, while we cheer and encourage our 
 Christian heroes in their profession of arms, when directed 
 to the interest of religion and justice, in checking tyranny 
 and crime, , and giving protection to all in peace and in- 
 dustry ; and while we point to their banners, and pray that 
 their standards may ever wave over them in righteous 
 triumph here on earth, with the hope of a greater and 
 everlasting triumph in Christ hereafter. And may our 
 soldiers continue to move through each nation, bearing 
 with them at the same time, the security of protection, and 
 the benefit of their good example, conferring on them the 
 greatest of earthly blessings the maintenance of peace. 
 But should it please God at any time to chastise the nations 
 
 b 2 
 
XX 
 
 by war should that fatal, but perhaps necessary, day 
 arrive, may humanity then triumph in your victories, and 
 may Justice call your sword her own, thus relying upon 
 God, we may feel, and make your enemies feel, that where 
 the love of God is, there perfect love casteth out fear. 
 
 Oh ! Lord God Almighty ! who rulest over all things in 
 heaven and earth, we humbly pray for thy continual bless- 
 ing and protection ; for thou alone givest victory to whom 
 thou seest fit ; be with us then as thou wert with the people 
 of old. Bless the going out and coming in of our armies ; 
 and in the hour of contest teach their hands to war, and 
 their fingers to fight ; and may they ever remember who it 
 is that covereth their head in the day of battle ; and thus 
 may they follow Thee as the captain of their salvation, that 
 thus casting themselves upon Thee, and not fearing what 
 man can do unto them, they may lift up their banners, and 
 in conclusion, in mild ^ humanity, give all the glory to 
 God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost. 
 Amen. 
 
 He being made perfect, in a short time fulfilled a long 
 time. For his soul pleased the Lord ; therefore hastened 
 he to take him away from among the wicked. 
 
 In pride of place, here last the eagle flew ; 
 Brief, brave, and glorious, was his young career. 
 
 Byron. 
 
 Yea, speedily was he taken way, lest that wickedness 
 should alter his understanding, or deceit beguile his soul ; 
 yet his career, if measured by what he accomplished, cannot 
 be thought brief. 
 
 Ampliat aetatis spatium vir bonus, 
 Hie est vivere bis, vita priori frui. 
 
 He pleased God, and was beloved of him, so that living 
 among sinners he was translated. 
 
XXI 
 
 Then seek the Lord betimes, and choose 
 
 The path of heavenly truth ; 
 The earth affords no lovlier sight 
 
 Than a religious youth. 
 
 " But the multiplying brood of the ungodly shall not 
 shine nor take deep root from bastards' slips, nor lay any 
 fast foundation ; for though they nourish in branches for a 
 time, yet standing not fast, they shall be shaken with the 
 wind, and through the force of winds they shall be rooted 
 out." 
 
 The following letter was prepared by the author's father 
 for publication, and was placed in the hands of Sir Herbert 
 Taylor, to submit to His Majesty the King.* It was, how- 
 ever, at the time of His Majesty's last illness, and Sir 
 Herbert, having had no fitting opportunity to submit it, 
 returned it, after His Majesty's death, and it has since 
 remained unpublished; but having been frequently read 
 by the author, while a boy, and his having often expressed 
 a youthful indignation at the enemies of the Royal Duke, 
 and having often declared to his father that it made such 
 an impression upon him as would constitute a rule of con- 
 duct in after life ; from this interesting incident, it appears 
 proper to introduce it here, in hopes it may have similar good 
 effects on other young gentlemen in their progress through 
 life ; and, it is hoped, it may also be received as an humble, 
 but affectionate mark of loyal devotion to our present Most 
 Gracious Sovereign ; and that it may not be deemed un- 
 worthy the attention of the Royal Princes, as they arrive 
 at suitable ages. 
 
 * George the Fourth. 
 
xxii 
 
 A Letter addressed to the King, detailing some very interest- 
 ing particulars of His Royal Highness, the lamented 
 Duke of York, ivith an authentic Letter from Dr. Thomas 
 O'Meara Mrs. Clarke's Bishop exhibiting a full and 
 minute Account of that gentleman s negociation with Mrs. 
 Mary Anne Clarke. Never before published. 
 
 Sire I do not apologize for laying the following letter 
 before your Majesty and the country, I can respectfully 
 anticipate that I shall have your approbation. The most 
 unfeigned respect for the memory of a great man, and 
 anxious desire to do him ample, though tardy justice, will, 
 I hope, obtain full approbation for me in thus addressing 
 that brother, who ever evinced for him both a firm and 
 affectionate attachment. 
 
 In an age teeming with public ingratitude, and virulent 
 invective against the leading characters of the state ; in an 
 age remarkable for its tergiversation and fulsome venality 
 when the good are assailed, the hero and his heroic actions 
 forgotten, and the honest stigmatized ; when cold oblivion, 
 both of glorious public services and of amiable private 
 worth, gives a tone to all classes ; at such a period of public 
 degeneracy, it does not appear to me an idle task to dis- 
 abuse some part of public feeling, by adding one more proof 
 to the many we already possess in favour of that goodness 
 of heart, and rectitude of public conduct, of the distin- 
 guished character, whose irreparable loss both the king and 
 country must ever deeply deplore Frederick of York 
 the soldier's best friend, and constitution's firmest defender. 
 Your Majesty can readily distinguish between truth and 
 flattery between just panegyric and fulsome eulogium ; 
 I discard the latter, but adopt the former. 
 
 If " the high accordant meed of praise" flows from my 
 pen, I forget not that I am addressing the brother and the 
 King ; and I also forget not that I conceive I have a public 
 
XXI 11 
 
 duty to perform, in rescuing his name from the foul 
 slanders which a base coalition cast upon it. I do not 
 mean to attempt to arrogate for him perfect purity of cha- 
 racter this would but strip him of humanity, and clothe 
 him with an unworn panoply, which must convict myself of 
 irreligious feeling ; but what I mean to prove is, that 
 whilst he possessed faults, which are inseparable from a 
 state of mortality, he at the same time possessed virtues 
 beyond compare ; that while a weed may have grown in 
 the soil of the mind, the rich flowers of exalted worth 
 luxuriated there also. 
 
 " There are some faults," says a beautiful writer, " so 
 nearly allied to excellence, that we can scarce eradicate the 
 vice, without plucking out the virtue." This is a most 
 just and liberal expression, which I am far from quoting as 
 an excuse for any defect, but which I refer to as a truth 
 really existing ; and methinks I immediately find an ex- 
 ample in the illustrious individual who is the subject of my 
 observations. His open heart, his generous and princely 
 nature, his regular and undeviating attention to business, 
 his devoted love of country, his ardent attention to the 
 interests and honour of the army that army which, under 
 the illustrious Wellington, his Royal Highness's peculiar 
 choice, annihilated the pride nay, more, the might of the 
 great Napoleon, thereby securing the liberty, not only of 
 England, but also of Europe ; all these have been shaded 
 by the taint of that treacherous syren, with whom his 
 unsuspecting heart at first so heedlessly dallied. This, 
 then, his principal fault, be pleased to contrast with the 
 other side ; set his defects in opposition to his virtues, see 
 how the balance preponderates; the shadow which one 
 would throw over the bright colouring of the picture is 
 flung in the back ground by the captivating radiance of the 
 other. Some Radical may observe, " If there really was 
 
XXIV 
 
 in the Duke such an assemblage of brilliant virtues, how 
 did it happen that His Royal Highness had been frequently 
 the subject of obloquy ?" I reply, his very virtues may 
 have produced such unworthy effects ; his excellencies 
 provoked envy and hatred, and enlisted all the base in one 
 common cry against him. Cato, the purest Roman of his 
 time, had been forty times accused through envy, and 
 forty times acquitted ; and be it remembered, that the 
 wretched Mrs. Clarke became the tool of a foul political 
 conspiracy f besides that the slightest error in one of 
 exalted rank stands more exposed to public view, and con- 
 sequently, to public animadversion. " The storm, which 
 baser trees and humbler shrubs seldom feel, frequently 
 brings down with subduing power, the lofty and stately 
 pine." 
 
 " So fell the royal oak by a wild crew 
 
 Of mungrel shrubs, which underneath him grew* 
 
 So fell the lion by a pack of curs ; 
 
 So the rose withered 'twixt a knot of burs ; 
 
 So fell the eagle 'midst a swarm of gnats ; 
 
 So the whale perished by a shoal of sprats." 
 In moral life, he who possesses elevated rank, is more 
 narrowly observed than the man who moves in an humbler 
 sphere. The watchful and prying enemies of the illus- 
 trious Duke, were well aware that a deep and artful, though 
 probably insinuating and captivating female, had, as a 
 private companion, found admission to his society, and 
 knowing his noble and unsuspecting disposition, they cau- 
 tiously resolved to wait and watch until the moment when 
 the wreath of flowers she was throwing round his pillow 
 could be converted into a chain of iron, to drag him before 
 that tribunal, to which even the king himself should bow, 
 namely, the assembled senate of his country ; no such 
 occurrence, however, can ever arrive, while the destinies of 
 this great nation are directed by such pious and dutiful 
 
XXV 
 
 elder sons of the State as your Majesty undoubtedly is. In 
 the case of His Royal Highness, a moment it seems did 
 at last arrive, when, heedless of the syren who threw her- 
 self in his way, he allowed her to play around him, yielding 
 an unsuspecting heart, when doubtless he ought to have cast 
 her from it. Do I wish to screen him from a due share of 
 censure ? Certainly not; for the moment man suffers 
 illegitimate female influence to predominate, that moment 
 does he establish a libel on his manhood. But should such 
 female influence be permitted to interfere or intermeddle 
 with the public interest, then, indeed, does it become a 
 national grievance, an extended evil, to the expulsion of 
 which, every virtuous and firm principle of the soul and 
 heart should be directed ; but in this case be it remem- 
 bered, strictly and cautiously remembered, that the great 
 and lamented Duke of York never permitted this wretched 
 woman's ill-got influence to interfere with that sacred duty 
 he owed to the country, that parent, of whose illustrious 
 sons, without almost one exception, he was the brightest. 
 Some foul slanderer may deny this ; I prove my assertion, 
 incontestably prove it, by the following important, interest- 
 ing, feelingly, and sensibly written letter of Dr. Thomas 
 O'Meara, the fabled Bishop of Mrs. Ann Clarke's brain, 
 that disgrace to her sex that despicable tool of a more 
 despicable and desperate political faction. 
 
 Sire, read the following letter read it attentively, and 
 recommend it to all your subjects. Sire, I feel it as one of 
 the most pleasing incidents of my life, to have become the 
 depository of the document now submitted to your Ma- 
 jesty's consideration. I repeat, I feel delighted in having 
 been made the medium of wiping away the base obloquy, 
 which a wretched unconstitutional cabal attempted to heap 
 on the innocent head of a brother, whom you justly esteemed 
 and whom your people so justly venerated. 
 
XXVI 
 
 THE LETTER 
 
 From the Rev. Thomas O'Meara to the Rev. James Slator, 
 A.M.) of Tonyn, in the County of Lonford, c., Rector 
 of Carah, and Vicar of Naas, in the County of Kildare, 
 Ireland. 
 
 My dear Friend I received your kind letter, and lament 
 exceedingly that I had not the consolation of a conference 
 with you, and the benefit of your advice, wincing as I did 
 under the lash of abuse, and doubtful in what manner I 
 should refute misrepresentations, except by a plain and fair 
 statement to my private and personal friends, without ex- 
 posing myself to be again baited in the public prints. An 
 over-eagerness in one's own defence, is sometimes productive 
 of the very reverse of its intentions ; and, on the other hand, 
 a total silence hazards the presumption of the truth of an 
 accusation, which, in the hue and cry of the censorious 
 world, meet with such ready credence : as to the investi- 
 gation in the late session of Parliament. I shall only ob- 
 serve, that if the practice of discussing charges were 
 encouraged on a mere statement of them, without proof, it 
 would lead to the establishment of an inquisition highly 
 dangerous to our dearest rights, and to every species of 
 honourable confidence in private and social life. Some 
 time in the month of June, 1805, as well as I recollect, 
 Mr. William Ogilvie, who was formerly agent to the 59th 
 regiment, to which I was chaplain, brought me to dine 
 with a Mrs. Farquiar, Mrs. Clarke's mother; this, her 
 first appearance to me, was in the character of an officer's 
 widow, in the last months of her grief, as I was informed 
 by Ogilvie, who hinted to me that her husband had been a 
 great favorite with the Duke of York. " You must," said 
 he, " write answers for her to some scurrilous letters which 
 have been lately published against His Royal Highness," 
 reading at the same time one of the letters, which I under- 
 
XXV11 
 
 took to answer ; and my answers to four or five other 
 letters, under the signature of L S , were after- 
 wards in one of the morning papers. 
 
 You know how difficult it is in the microcosme of Lon- 
 don, to distinguish ladies under protection from many 
 ladies of fashion ; indeed, each of these orders borrows the 
 manners of the other, and they act their parts so naturally, 
 that one should be armed with the spear of Ithuriel to 
 discern the angel of light from the angel of darkness. 
 Hecate, who presided over magic and enchantments, was 
 the same, you know, with Luna and Diana, hence called 
 Diva Triformis. This slippery goddess, Mrs. Clarke could 
 personate with ease, assuming at pleasure all her forms, 
 attributes, and functions, the appearance of modesty as the 
 most infallible art of attraction. Deceived by these illu- 
 sions, by Ogilvie, by a man whom she called her brother, 
 a captain in the army, and her sister, who seemed to be a 
 modest girl, but above all, by the visits of ladies of rank 
 and fashion, and the visiting cards of some of high con- 
 sideration, I did accept of her introduction to the Duke 
 
 of York, as L S , the literary opponent of B 
 
 S . His Royal Highness having expressed his wishes 
 
 to serve me, I ventured to ask him for the chaplaincy of 
 the royal yacht, and for which he promised he would apply 
 to His Majesty, on producing to him a proper recommen- 
 dation from some bishop, and this caution was highly 
 creditable to His Royal Highness. On my return to Bath, 
 in winter, having got a letter of introduction to His Grace 
 the Archbishop of Tuam, he was so good as to give me a 
 letter, which I directed to His Royal Highness the Duke 
 of York, Portman Square, his own residence. This letter 
 afterwards fell, I know not how, into the hands of Mrs. 
 Clarke, which sorely afflicted me ; and she told a friend of 
 mine, that she was forced by Mr. Wardle to bring forward 
 this letter, and my name to romance, and embellish her 
 
XXV111 
 
 answers, and to conceal the truth, the ground and motive 
 of my introduction to His Royal Highness, which he 
 desired, in consequence of the letters I wrote in his defence. 
 Those letters, by the sublime chemistry of Mr. Wardle, 
 Mr. Cobbett, and other demagogues, were converted into a 
 shower of gold, poured into the lap of Danae, and the 
 chaplaincy of the royal yacht metamorphosed into a 
 bishopric. She was forced she said, to give up this letter, 
 and my name, and for what purpose, she added, the 
 reformists and methodists well know. I can easily conceive 
 that man to be capable of such conduct who took away 
 other letters by force, from Mrs. Clarke, on which outrage 
 that great statesman and honourable man, Mr. Windham, 
 observed " There was no act of which the Duke of York 
 was accused, of which he would not rather be found guilty, 
 than of having taken away, without her consent, and against 
 her will, the letters taken from Mrs. Clarke by Mr. 
 Wardle." I candidly acknowledge myself much to blame 
 for my want of discernment, and want of discretion, but 
 let him that is void of offence " throw the first stone." 
 The web of human life is of a mingled yarn, good and 
 bad together ; the human character is a complicated sys- 
 tem ; the man of candour, as well as the Christian, 
 who attends to its virtues and its failings, will not be 
 offended with little faults ; he will not peep about with a 
 microscopic eye for little flaws and blemishes on the sur- 
 face, but will view it as he would a magnificent building, 
 and contemplate the beauty, majesty, and proportions of 
 the whole but not so the reformists in church and state. 
 "The cloud which rose from the sea no larger than a 
 man's hand, they swell and spread till it envelopes the 
 whole horizon, and discharges with destructive violence the 
 gathered storm." Cobbett, and other carnacatemists, have 
 exhibited me as a fat pluralist, but you know I never 
 tasted one grape in the vineyard. Self-commendation is 
 
XXIX 
 
 invidious, and I will not gratify self-love by indulging it, 
 although I do not think it inconsistent with modesty, for 
 Moses called himself the mildest man upon earth ; and I 
 believe Job says of himself, that he was the most patient ; 
 but I can with truth say, that I do not deserve to be in- 
 cluded in the sweeping clause of those speakers and writers 
 who make one corporate body of corruption of all those 
 who fall into the hands of Mrs. Clarke. I was deceived in 
 the manner already related. Thus it is in the moral, as 
 in the natural world, great bodies draw the smaller after 
 them. 
 
 To those who are acquainted with the whole tenor of my 
 life as you are, that I have remembered " it is more blessed 
 to give than to receive," that I have lived unbeneficed, unam- 
 bitious, it is unnecessary to say more ; to those who are so 
 ungenerous as to pronounce a decisive sentence, without 
 endeavouring to find out the truth, I would prescribe the 
 following amulet to be hung about their necks "Judge 
 not, and you shall not be judged ; condemn not, and you 
 shall not be condemned." To you, my dear friend, I am 
 sure I need not make any apology for this long letter, con- 
 vinced as I am that you take a kind interest in every thing 
 that affects and concerns 
 
 Yours, most sincerely, 
 
 THOMAS O'MEARA. 
 
 Thus, Sire, have I incontestably proved my position, 
 that His Royal Highness, your ever to be lamented brother, 
 never allowed any undue or improper influence to infringe 
 on the sacred duty he owed to his country. Thus is it also 
 apparent, that the cloud which arose out of the sea no 
 larger than a man's hand, became magnified and scattered 
 to serve the base purposes of designing villains ; yet still in 
 this whole relation, what circumstance is there that can be 
 made the subject of grave accusation, on a national ground, 
 
XXX 
 
 and advanced against the purity and excellence of the 
 public functions of the late venerated Duke of York ? I 
 say, not one, but an example worthy of being set on high 
 for the imitation of all individuals entrusted with power 
 and patronage hereafter ; for it appears, that all the arts 
 and all the winning graces of even a bosom companion 
 could not procure from His Royal Highness a recommen- 
 dation to a chaplaincy, before he became fully assured 
 that the public service and the purity of the Christian 
 religion would not be injured or scandalized by appointing 
 an unfit or unworthy person, thus adding one more to the 
 other countless proofs of his genuine love of his country 
 that country, the permanence and security of whose emi- 
 nently majestic institutions he has ever generously and 
 patriotically preferred to all personal or selfish considera- 
 tions. Whatever faults His Royal Highness possessed, 
 were only such as he had in common with other human 
 beings, while no other individual can be found so rich in 
 the number and brilliancy of his amiable public virtues. 
 When, nevertheless, we behold one endowed with qualities 
 so good, so rare, so eminent, coupled with such an assem- 
 blage of Christian graces as he exhibited in his last mo- 
 ments ; yet still clouded, and, as it were, borne down by 
 some great faults, this should remind us of the condition 
 and state of humanity, and, far from begetting censorious- 
 ness or presumption, would, to the sincere Christian, 
 convey a lesson of humility. He would exclaim " When 
 I behold a brother so eminently my superior in all good- 
 ness, nevertheless, oppressed with sin and misery, Lord, 
 what must be my lot ? how fearful my forebodings ! " He 
 would pray to the Father, not only to forgive such an 
 exalted brother his lesser sins, but also for his grace to 
 enable himself to repent of his greater, and to amend and 
 correct what was wrong in himself, and teach him above 
 all to pray "Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us 
 
XXXI 
 
 from evil." This imperfection, discoverable in the best of 
 human beings, coupled with dissatisfaction in every thing 
 here below, methinks is one of the strongest evidences of a 
 future state of perfection and happiness. When we' behold 
 the best of men here, far removed from a moderate state of 
 perfection ; when we behold all things denominated good 
 by human beings, and upon which their whole hearts seem 
 to be set, as gems of most value ; when we behold all these 
 fail in bestowing anything like happiness, or even con- 
 tentment then are we assured, awfully assured, that per- 
 fection, happiness, arid contentment are not to be found in 
 a sublunary state ; they must therefore be sought else- 
 where, and that must be in a future state, and the place 
 must be heaven, where there is nothing but what is per- 
 fect where complete and never-failing happiness reigns in 
 the presence of Him, before whom is joy evermore. 
 
 To this abode of the blessed sinful man cannot come, 
 unless through repentance full and sincere repentance 
 by a lively faith in the saving effects of our blessed Saviour's 
 death. Through Christ crucified, therefore, can man alone 
 be saved ; and he who fully and sincerely repents through 
 this saving faith, with humble reliance on God's mercy, 
 such a penitent, it is graciously promised, may sue for 
 forgiveness and solicit acceptance. His Royal Highness 
 exhibited all those symptoms of unfeigned repentance ; he 
 has acknowledged himself a sinful being; he has freely 
 confessed and fully acknowledged the magnitude of his 
 faults; he has seriously and sincerely evinced unfeigned 
 sorrow; and he died professing unabated faith in Christ 
 crucified as his alone foundation, and soliciting pardon and 
 forgiveness from the Father, through the means of his 
 only Son. 
 
 We therefore trust and hope, anxiously hope, that His 
 Royal Highness now rests in the full enjoyment of hap- 
 
XXXI I 
 
 piness, wearing that crown prepared for him to all eternity, 
 in the presence of the Father. 
 
 This is a consummation, which in the true spirit "of 
 Christianity, I would recommend to the censurers of His 
 Royal Highness, those unjust judges, to endeavour after ; 
 and let them beware, lest even their want of charity and 
 Christian humility alone, may not be sufficient to eternally 
 exclude themselves, since we are told that " charity covereth 
 a multitude of sins." 
 
 I remain, Sire, with feelings of filial duty, one of the 
 humblest, but one of the sincerest and most attached sub- 
 jects of yours, Sire, and your unrivalled constitution. 
 
 PATRICIUS. 
 
A JOURNAL. 
 
 Off Gravesend, 
 Sunday, January 15th, 1837, 
 
 to Thursday, 19th, 2 o'clock. 
 
 My dear Sisters I deferred commencing this letter 
 until we had actually sailed, having heen detained here since 
 Friday, in consequence of the absence of four sailors of the 
 complement of men ; you cannot conceive how tedious this 
 delay has been. However, I did not feel it so much as my 
 fellow passengers, being engaged in settling my cabin, and 
 taking an inventory of my clothing. I may say now that 
 I am quite prepared for the sea voyage, and hope to be as 
 comfortable as possible, though at present it is intensely 
 cold. The Captain came down from town this morning, 
 bringing with him four men. He was quite enraged at 
 the delay, blamed the first mate, and abused the pilot so 
 loudly, that he brought all the passengers on deck. He 
 soon, however, set every thing to rights, and got the ship 
 under weigh in a very short time. He then returned to 
 London, and intends being in Portsmouth by Tuesday 
 morning, where he expects to find the ship ; thus the event 
 proves how expensive it would have been had I gone down 
 to Portsmouth. Since I left London the weather has 
 quite changed, bringing us fine cloudless days and bright 
 moonlight nights, quite delightful after foggy London. 
 We have just anchored off the Nore light, after a very 
 slow sail, having gone twenty-two miles in five hours, 
 although we were towed half way by a steam-packet. I 
 keep my journal regularly, though there is very little at 
 
present going on. I am very fortunate in my fellow-cabin 
 passenger ; he is a mild quiet young man. We agree per- 
 fectly ; his mother intended calling upon you, but I suppose 
 you have not seen her, as you are already removed. I have 
 not laid down any stated division of my time, as anticipated 
 sea sickness will interrupt all our arrangements. I have 
 nothing more to say for this day ; indeed, I shall have little 
 until we get to Portsmouth, everything is so dull and 
 monotonous. 
 
 Monday. While I am now writing, we are just coming 
 to an anchor, which is the second time since we left 
 Gravesend. There is not a breeze blowing, nor the 
 slightest signs of one, although we are all longing for it ; 
 it is the more vexatious, as we have not even reached 
 Margate. The pilot thinks it likely that the calm will last 
 two or three days, in which case we must be towed down 
 by a steamer. Mr. R. has improved on acquaintance ; he 
 has lost all that conceit that he at first appeared to have. 
 It is astonishing how the sea air familiarizes every one. 
 The ceremonious person is thrown quite in the back ground, 
 and in a short time becomes, quite a new being. Nothing 
 is more pleasant than the comforts of a sea life ; but as for 
 its hardships, I pity every one that binds himself to them. 
 On land nobody is so happy as a sailor, but on sea he is 
 always discontented. We have four mates, two of whom 
 dine with us in the cuddy ; the other two dine elsewhere, 
 and are obliged to work with the common men ; of course, 
 William would not have liked that, had he gone out as a 
 sailor. 
 
 On Sunday I looked out for the packet to Ireland, 
 thinking you might be in it, but it did not pass. A breeze 
 has at last sprung up, and they are raising the anchor, so I 
 will bid you adieu until next we stop. 
 
 Wednesday Evening. I delayed pursuing my letter 
 until this evening, as there was little worth while telling. 
 
3 
 
 We soon came to an anchor again on Monday, as it fell 
 quite calm, and lasted so until this morning, accompanied 
 by a thick fog ; thus neither sailing-boat nor steam-packet 
 could move. Where we were situated there were flats all 
 around, which made it impossible to move, even had there 
 been a wind. We were, therefore, necessitated to remain 
 all Monday night and the whole of Tuesday, not being able 
 to see twenty yards before us. However, on Wednesday 
 morning, about seven o'clock, I heard the capstan heaving, 
 preparatory to weighing the anchor. This immediately 
 roused me ; I was up, and soon on deck, but found that 
 there was merely a slight breeze. It, however, gradually 
 increased through the day, and we are now proceeding at a 
 brisk rate, having passed Margate, Ramsgate, and Dover, 
 the last-named place we did not reach till dusk ; but we 
 are now (eight o'clock) full twenty miles from it, and expect 
 to be off Hastings before to-morrow morning. We have a 
 very large complement of people on board, more than fifty, 
 including sailors, independent of the passengers, who are to 
 embark at Portsmouth. The reason of this number is, 
 that the Captain has been obliged to take on board twenty- 
 five boys, and leave them at the Cape, where they are to be 
 apprenticed out to different trades. They are most of 
 them little thieves, who have been picked up in the streets 
 by a society in London, and thus shipped off out of further 
 crime. There are consequently a very large live stock on 
 board, about a hundred fowls, a large number of geese and 
 ducks, with sheep and pigs, which, with the noise of the 
 boys, and bawling of the sailors, make a most discordant 
 sound. I have not yet been ill, although my companion 
 has. We have breakfast at half-past eight o'clock, and a 
 very substantial one it is ; but it is only (what they call) 
 a rough breakfast, as nothing is in proper order until the 
 Captain comes. He is a very bustling man, and is quite 
 delighted when he sees the vessel studded with every sail. 
 
 B 2 
 
Thursday. We are now arriving in sight of Spithead, 
 which is off Portsmouth, having made a very good passage 
 from Dover during the night, with a favorable wind. 
 We were quite surprised in the morning to find ourselves 
 so close ; at first the pilot was very uneasy, supposing he 
 had passed the Isle of Wight ; for had this been the case, 
 he would have been obliged to beat back against the wind. 
 But we are now very snug riding off Spithead. The vessel 
 has been so delayed, that the Captain intends departing 
 immediately ; thus we shall be off from Portsmouth this 
 evening (Thursday), and through the Needles before it is 
 dark, as there is a good wind. So now I bid you and 
 England adieu, for the last time, wishing you safe ere this 
 in Ireland, knowing yourselves, in truth, independent. We 
 have had a very rough passage, but I have had the good 
 fortune not to be ill, nor do I think I shall feel it much, as 
 it is very different from sailing in a steamer. I am now 
 in haste to finish this letter, that it may go with the pilot, 
 who is going directly. The poor man has done his duty 
 well, not having stirred from his post for a night and two 
 days. Will you mention to papa that I have not answered 
 Major Johnston's note, requesting me to pay 2s. 8d. for 
 drum fee. Bidding you a long adieu. Remember me 
 affectionately to papa, not forgetting me to the boys. 
 Believe me, my dear Sisters, 
 
 Your affectionate Brother, , 
 J. S. GUMMING. 
 
 P.S. When I last saw the Captain, he said he had a 
 packet for me from papa. 
 
 Saturday, Jan. 21, 1837. 
 
 My dear Father We are at last free of the Channel, 
 after a very boisterous passage, having encountered a storm 
 off the Scilly Isles. We have, however, weathered them, 
 
and are now proceeding at a rapid rate towards Madeira. 
 I have fortunately escaped much sea-sickness, and am 
 already quite a sailor. I find myself very comfortable, the 
 Captain contributing all in his power to make his passen- 
 gers so ; he has not many, only six gentlemen and one 
 lady and child. We have already become familiar ; Mrs. 
 Greenaway is going out to Calcutta to her husband, who 
 holds some civil appointment there ; two of the gentlemen 
 are surgeons in the Company's service, very nice men, 
 particularly Mr. Anderson, who is an Irishman. How- 
 ever, I find myself very dull,, not being able to stay in my 
 cabin, on account of my sick companion. He is not so 
 quiet a young man as I thought he was ; he causes me 
 great inconvenience at times, from the monopoly he makes 
 of the cabin, as also from his bad temper ; he has wholly 
 given himself up to sickness, and remains in bed all the 
 day, in .spite of all my persuasions to the contrary ; how^ 
 ever, it will not last long, as we shall, at our rapid rate, 
 soon be in fine weather. As yet there is nothing very 
 interesting to relate. 
 
 A lamentable accident happened this morning (Monday), 
 one of our sailors fell from the main-yard, a pole going 
 across the middle mast, for the purpose of sustaining the 
 sail, and injured himself severely. He was taken up insen- 
 sible, and immediately carried below, and is now doing 
 well. 
 
 Sunday, 28th. We are now in sight of Madeira, having 
 made an excellent passage of eight days from Portsmouth. 
 The climate of this place surpasses that of England, .or any 
 other place in Europe, so delightfully warm, it forms a 
 pleasing contrast to frosty England. Here cold is never 
 felt, or at least not to such a degree as in our country. 
 Harriet would be quite delighted with it. I had not much 
 opportunity of seeing the coast, as it was dark when we 
 reached it ; it was the only place I enjoyed since leaving 
 England. It was a beautiful starlight night, not a ripple 
 
6 
 
 on the water, not a sound but the rattling of the ropes 
 when agitated by the wind. We were much surprised at 
 a curious phenomenon in the water ; the sea was covered 
 by shoals of bright spots, which, as they passed, presented 
 to our sight small flashes of light ; these appear to be little 
 insects like glow-worms, and always seen in the evening. 
 
 Monday Evening. The scene is quite changed, and for 
 the worse. We have passed Madeira, and are proceeding 
 towards the Canaries, against an adverse wind, which is 
 very vexatious, as we had hoped for a continuance of 
 favorable winds, and it is at all times tedious to beat up 
 against a foul wind. 
 
 February 5th, Sunday Night. I have not been able to 
 go on with this letter until to-day, in consequence of my 
 cabin being wet ; the sea water, in spite of all my efforts, 
 comes in through my window, and makes my cabin very 
 uncomfortable. After passing Madeira on the 29th, we 
 found ourselves next day on the other side of the island, 
 still beating up against an adverse wind, which continued 
 until yesterday, when it became more favorable, and we 
 have thus been enabled to reach Palma, one of the Cana- 
 ries ; it presented a most beautiful appearance to the eye 
 of the spectator, towering six thousand feet above the level 
 of the sea. We were about fifty miles from it, notwith- 
 standing which, I have been able to distinguish trees grow- 
 ing on its heights, and layers of snow capping its highest 
 peaks ; although the weather is rather warm, it is so high, 
 that while above all is surpassingly clear, on its sides and 
 below, the clouds are soaring past in every fantastic shape. 
 The view exceeded anything I ever beheld, even those in 
 Wales. We are now passing it, in hopes of seeing Tene- 
 riffe in the morning. I have now got quite reconciled to 
 board ship ; our amusements are more various. I had the 
 hardihood to climb to the topmast, for which I was lashed 
 to the rigging ; I soon, however, ransomed myself by an 
 ounce or two of tobacco. I committed a mistake in 
 
not bringing coloured jackets and trousers, as I have not 
 sufficient white ones, and it is getting warm. 
 
 Monday Night. We are passed Palma and Teneriffe, 
 but proceeding very slow ; it has been almost a calm all 
 to-day ; it is very vexatious, as we ought to have reached 
 the Line, and have already lost eight days in coming from 
 Madeira. 
 
 Sunday Night. We have at last found the long-expected 
 trade wind, which will carry us almost to the Line. It is 
 much cooler than it was at Palma, in consequence of the 
 brisk wind. 
 
 Friday, 17th. The trade wind has left us within four 
 degrees of the Line ; we may, therefore, expect calms and 
 variable for the next week. The weather is extremely hot 
 and suffocating in the cabins. We amuse ourselves by 
 catching fish, and watching the sharks prowling about the 
 ship, one of which has been caught, and afforded some 
 employment to the sailors in drawing him on deck ; they 
 are not such formidable fish as I supposed. 
 
 Monday, 20th. There are four ships in sight, two 
 outward bound, and two home bound, by one of which I 
 hope to send this ; they are approaching us, and therefore 
 I must be ready. Captain Shuttleworth boarded one of 
 the outward-bound ships yesterday, which proved to be a 
 whaler going out to the South Seas ; he returned with the 
 captain of it, and entertained him during the evening, 
 when the whaler Captain returned to his ship, laden with 
 fowls as presents. Our captain seems to be a generous 
 sort of man. We are busy in preparing our letters in 
 haste ; the vessel is quite close, or I should write more. 
 Give my love to sisters and brothers. Latitude, 2 25' s. 
 Your most affectionate Son, 
 
 JAMES SLATOR GUMMING. 
 
 P.S. I received you parcel, which contained pistols, 
 seal, &c. 
 
8 
 
 March 29th, 1837, Cape of Good Hope, i 
 
 My dear Harriet We have at last arrived at the long- 
 wished-for Cape, after a tedious voyage from the Line. 
 The entrance to the Bay is not pleasing, though grand : 
 on every side ranges of bleak rugged rocks meet your view, 
 at the feet of which the waves dash with a noise that may 
 be heard at the distance of four or five miles. Having 
 passed up Table Bay, we entered another small bay, where 
 was situated the town. On approaching before it, we 
 were struck with its appearance it is so very different 
 from any town in England. The day after our arrival, 
 I went on shore to have a closer view. The town is com- 
 posed of streets running parallel to each other, (this being 
 the Dutch mode of building their towns,) and as straight as 
 possible. In most of the principal streets there are long 
 rows of trees, which is a great luxury there, as they afford 
 a cooling shade in the heat of the day. The town is 
 embosomed in a small valley, formed by mountains, which 
 rise perpendicularly above it, one of which is called Table 
 Mountain, from its resemblance to a table. I had full 
 opportunity for observing the country, as I and a few com- 
 panions rode out to a place called Shilling Bush, about 
 twelve miles from Cape Town. I never saw a more barren 
 and uncultivated tract of country : wherever you turned, 
 hillocks of sand presented themselves to your view. So 
 monotonous was the scene that I grew quite tired, until 
 we came to a place called Constantia, where is made a very 
 delicious wine. Here we stopped, and took a glass of it. 
 This place was very pretty, and quite remunerated us after 
 our former tiresome ride. The weather was very hot, and 
 we were glad to return by another road, through a wood, 
 which we accidentally discovered. We have been now 
 twelve days at the Cape discharging cargo, during which 
 time I went every second day on shore, though only once 
 into the country, to see my cabin companion, M. N -, 
 
who has unfortunately broken his leg. He is residing 
 
 with a Mr. O , to whom he had a letter of introduction. 
 
 He and I agree much better, as he has become more 
 sociable. 
 
 We have now again disembarked, after having rode out 
 a violent gale of wind in the Bay. I leave this place 
 without regret, as it is not at all to my taste. There has 
 been an addition to our party in the person of a gentleman 
 and two ladies, one of whom is well acquainted with old 
 
 Mr. C g. Her name is Mrs. , wife of a captain 
 
 in the Company's service. She is a very agreeable woman ; 
 she has been so obliging as to give me a letter of intro- 
 duction to an officer of my regiment ; I shall, therefore, 
 be at no loss when I arrive at Chinsura. I really think, 
 
 H , it would do you much benefit to take a trip to 
 
 sea the air is always so fresh if you could persuade 
 yourself not to be killed by monotony. Taking a super- 
 ficial view of board ship, everything seems pleasant and 
 desirable ; but when, after three or four months' detention, 
 you feel the delusion, all yonr pleasing fancies fade, and 
 you begin to look longingly for land indeed, there is not 
 a seaman on board who does not detest the sea : for myself, 
 I have been as comfortable as circumstances will allow. 
 Since the vessel left England, we have scarcely experienced 
 one fine day, the weather being a succession of gales and 
 calms. 
 
 May 26th. I have left a great opening, as. I have little 
 to communicate since we left the Cape ; but now, with 
 pleasure, I announce our arrival at Madras, having sus- 
 tained a tremendous storm off Ceylon. The morning 01 
 Sunday, the 21st of May, shone out in all the splendour 
 of the oriental climes a light breeze had sprung up, 
 wafting our all-studded vessel to its destination -and the 
 passengers were assembled, straining their eyes to catch a 
 glimpse of the Ceylon coast when black clouds were seen 
 
10 
 
 rising on the left quarter of the ship ; and before time was 
 allowed to shorten sail, a furious squall came rushing with 
 tremendous force along the sea, changing in a moment the 
 whole face of the sky. Our vessel was thrown on its 
 beam-end, where it remained some little time, until almost 
 every sail was blown to ribbons. Thus being much 
 lightened, she providentially righted, and the squall having 
 passed over, a fearful change presented itself the ship, 
 which before looked like a ship, now rolled heavily in the 
 deep trough of the sea, deprived of one of her masts, and 
 scarcely a sail upon her. We, however, managed to 
 weather it out during the time the storm lasted, which was 
 for the space of thirty hours. We are now snugly an- 
 chored off Madras roads, though there is a fearful surf on 
 the beach, in consequence of which I have not been able 
 to land, before Monday the 29th. Indeed, on Sunday 
 two gentlemen lost their lives, and one lady was much 
 injured. Madras has quite disappointed my expectations. 
 There are only one or two good houses in the place ; the 
 rest are small, shabby houses, inhabited by poor people. 
 I will, however, tell you more in my next letter. We 
 start to-morrow for Calcutta. The plague is raging there 
 at present a nice prospect for me ! I will not venture to 
 say where you are, for I know I would be wrong; but 
 wherever you are, I expect either to hear from or to see 
 you. Do not laugh. Though the change is great, I regret 
 it not. Give my most affectionate love to all, and believe 
 me affectionately, 
 
 J. S. GUMMING. 
 
 Thursday, July 13th, Chinsura. 
 
 My dearest Helena I am rejoiced to hear, that after 
 so many peregrinations, you are at last returned to your 
 long-wished-for home, as you may suppose I have been 
 
11 
 
 anxious to know in what course you would finally settle. 
 Now, however, it gives me the greatest pleasure to think 
 that you and Harriet will at last enjoy comparative comfort 
 and ease. I felt confident, that on your arrival in Dublin ? 
 you would participate in my feelings towards some of our 
 relations ; and I now find I was not wrong. I can fancy 
 what your feelings were on landing in Ireland, after so long 
 an absence the land of our birth, and a land which, in 
 every way, I would prefer to cold and freezing England ? 
 of which you have not said a word in your letter. As you 
 intend rusticating in the country for some time, I expect, 
 on my return, to find you and Harriet transformed into 
 wood nymphs, no longer wandering from place to place 
 in search of a habitation. You say you have not received 
 a letter from me, and that I ought to have written from 
 Madeira. I did not stop at Madeira, and had no means 
 of sending a letter until we reached the Line. There we 
 met a ship, and intrusted it with letters ; you ought, there- 
 fore, to have received one from me in the latter end of 
 May. Since March I have despatched three or four. You 
 cannot, therefore, tax me with laziness, as in this country 
 it is an exertion even to move the pen ; and unless one 
 imbibes a habit of writing regularly, he puts it off from 
 day to day, or forgets entirely. However, that will not 
 be the case with me. I must now give you an insight into 
 my poor affairs. I am in a flourishing condition, having 
 high hopes, high wishes, and, fortunately, no debts. Since 
 arriving in India now more than a month I have 
 managed so economically, that I have not drawn one sous 
 of pay, and do not intend until the close of this month, 
 when I shall draw twenty pounds. I am living with a nice 
 young man a year older than myself, who happens to 
 have the same taste and wishes, though in the point of 
 money he is better off. I am obliged to rise every morning 
 at half past four to attend drill, which lasts an hour ; then 
 I return and lie down for an hour, or take a walk, according 
 
to the heat of the morning. "We generally breakfast at 
 ten o'clock, after which Mr. Lyster and I indulge in a game 
 of chess for an hour or two. This takes up till twelve. 
 I then ride until two, when a slight tiffin is not disagree- 
 able. You will now wonder whether I take your advice 
 as to wine. I do. I scarcely ever touch it, my sole 
 beverage being a cup of COLD tea at tiffin, and cigars I 
 never will smoke. This place is very dull, owing to the 
 scarcity of ladies. I have called upon most of the married 
 officers, some of whom I like ; and you will be agreeably 
 surprised to hear that I have had a full account of Louisa 
 Churchill from Captain S. in this regiment. He knows, 
 and corresponds with them. He had a letter lately from 
 them, in which Mrs. and Miss C. beg to be particularly 
 remembered to me. Captain S. tells me she is the belle 
 of Cawnpore, and rules her father. He dotes on her, and 
 never refuses anything she wishes. She is, he says, looking 
 very thin, and had a severe illness some months ago. You 
 will be surprised that I have not been ill since landing, 
 though death has been laying its heavy hand around. One 
 of our doctors has just died of cholera. He arrived from 
 .England three days after me, and had not been a week in 
 Chinsura before he was in his grave. We walked in pro- 
 cession to the burial-ground it was a solemn scene, and 
 had more effect upon me, as being the first I had witnessed. 
 I hope, however, to be soon in a better climate, as we are 
 going to move up the country next year. I have one of 
 the best houses in Chinsura it contains seven rooms ; but 
 you would laugh to see us at breakfast in a large room 
 paved with flags, containing two tables, four chairs, &c. &c., 
 and resembling as much as possible the kitchen at Maghera- 
 cloone, only that it has not the same earthenware orna- 
 ments. What dou you think my breakfast costs a day? 
 Three pence. My greatest expense is the mess, which is 
 greatly increased this month, as I am president. Mon 
 pere demeure t'il avez vous. 
 
13 
 
 I expect a Lieutenancy very soon, as it is likely some 
 of the old officers will retire. I have obtained another 
 step. I endeavour to pass my time pretty well, . with the 
 assistance of an old gentleman who comes in regularly 
 every day, staying two hours, telling us all that happened 
 to him in the Peninsula, and drinking half a bottle of 
 brandy a day; for though we do not drink it ourselves, it 
 is ready for any visitors. He is a nice old man. You tell 
 me to describe everything, but this place affords no subjects. 
 I can only say 1 am disappointed in Calcutta. Do not you, 
 however, forget to tell me every occurrence. I am very 
 anxious to know all your movements. Harriet, I am sure, 
 enjoys better health, 'and will continue to do so. " Si ella 
 non e straccata." If William comes out, he will be posted 
 to a regiment at Barrackpoor, close to Chinsura; so that 
 he will never be at a loss. He must supply himself with 
 everything in Engfand. Pray send me your picture, and 
 Harriet's I know you can take her. Should you write 
 to Ellen, tell her I stayed with cousin F. He remembers 
 her well. He drove me out every evening to see the 
 beauty of Calcutta ; but alas ! this famous city does not 
 contain one pretty girl ! Is not this awful? Je suppose, 
 que vous avez le meme routine d? affairs quen Angleterre. 
 You will find happy retirement in Ireland preferable to 
 splendid misery in England. I have been expecting letters 
 for the last month, but was disappointed. Adieu. Give 
 my love to Harriet, and tell her I hope she will write. 
 Remember me affectionately to the boys. Love to the 
 Governor. J. S. CUMMING. 
 
 P. S. Remember me to Grandmama and Ellen, and 
 tell her I shall not forget to Write to her. I can assure 
 you my sentiments contre un certain homme sont detrutes. 
 You must tell me all your arrangements, and how you can 
 manage to exist after so sudden a change. It must be 
 quite delightful now that you are accustomed to the place. 
 
14 
 
 I wish we had English fruits here I don't like any kind 
 of Indian fruits. I am beginning to learn Hindostan. I 
 get on with it pretty well. This country would not agree 
 with you. I am at present roasting, though in the rainy 
 season. However, Adieu. J. S. GUMMING. 
 
 P. S. I have scercely spoken to a lady since I arrived 
 in India ; therefore am not likely to lose a certain precious 
 thing. I find myself very comfortable (et favez que je 
 puis faire d 1 argent only fancy, mais ne dites pas). Now, 
 do not think me stingy. I assure you we entertain our- 
 selves in great state. I do not intend buying a horse at 
 present. Parceque je nais pas d* argent. Besides, they 
 are dear. 
 
 Chinsura, December 23rd, 1837. 
 
 My dear Harriet I received your letter of the 16th of 
 May on December 22nd, which gave me great satisfaction. 
 I also received a letter from my father, dated 26th of June, 
 which reached me prior to yours, although written a month 
 later. However, J can assure you, your letter was not the 
 less interesting, as I am constantly in expectation of letters 
 from some of you, detailing every transaction of as much 
 importance to me as you. I hope now that you are settled 
 down comfortably in a house of your own, you will not 
 again stir, at least, for some time ; and although it may be 
 dull, you must feel more at ease and independent than if 
 you were in England. As for myself, I have been enabled 
 to manage pretty well, and am not one farthing in debt ; I 
 even think I shall be able to save a little every month, for 
 the purpose of covering the expenses I shall be put to in 
 going up the conntry ; once up there I shall be quite rich. 
 I have at present left the house in which I lived with 
 
 Mr. , and have removed into barracks, which I find 
 
 much more convenient, as I am nearer the centre of action. 
 
15 
 
 Chinsura is a pretty place, but very confined ; there are no 
 extensive drives about it, which are essential in India. It 
 is surrounded with woods on all sides, having no open 
 country for six or seven miles ; almost every tree bears 
 fruit and as you ride along the road, you behold the fruit 
 of the " tamarind" tree, the custard, the apple, and a great 
 variety of others, growing promiscuously together; they 
 are all, however, inferior to our own fruit many are not 
 worth eating. I envy you the fine cherries and apples at 
 Magheracloone ; there is not such a thing to be seen here. 
 The mode of living here is quite different to that in Eng- 
 land, but I am got reconciled to it. I am obliged to have 
 four servants one to attend at meals, another to dress me, 
 and take care of my clothes, the other two are subordinate, 
 but all are absolutely necessary. Caste is a great bane to 
 the people of India it ties them down to the greatest 
 absurdities. Some time ago, one of my servants was ill, 
 and I gave him some medicine to take in a cup ; but he 
 refused, saying he should lose caste, by drinking out of a 
 cup that an European uses ; they will not eat anything 
 coming from your table, and some castes will not even eat 
 with others. The Mahomedan does not eat with the 
 Hindoo ; they are a wretched race of people the passion 
 for money seems to be predominant in them ; they will go 
 any lengths to obtain it ; you are at all times liable to be 
 cheated by your servants ; it is impossible to find an 
 honest one such a discovery would be a miracle. Should 
 you, however, place any thing in their trust, they will take 
 the most scrupulous care of it ; but this, I believe, is the 
 only redeeming quality among them. 
 
 January 30th. I have been very gay here for the last 
 month, which is quite unusual, having got acquainted with 
 some French people, living near Chinsura, in a small 
 station, called Chandenagore. They have given a few balls ; 
 and one of them holds a soiree every week. As I am quite 
 
16 
 
 at home with them, it is very pleasant, and I begin now to 
 talk French with some fluency. As the place is some miles 
 
 from Chinsura, Captain D generally drives .me down in 
 
 his buggy, or gig. You see we are not very dull, but this 
 ball-giving is quite an exertion here. You tell me to 
 inform you of every one I meet ; as yet I have met no 
 
 person that you know. Mr. and Mrs. T started for 
 
 England a few days ago ; I did not see them, as they em- 
 barked before I had time to call upon them. I do not 
 know how they have arranged their affairs, but the general 
 belief is, that he will return to India, when he obtains his 
 company, as he has some houses in the hills, together with 
 
 some little property. I have heard nothing of Louisa , 
 
 but she is still up the country, and will remain until next 
 winter ; I doubt whether I shall meet her. I long to get 
 away from this part of Bengal, to the delightful climate of 
 the upper country, where, instead of eight months of 
 broiling weather, we have eight left for every enjoyment; 
 but still I can always be satisfied wherever I may be sta- 
 tioned. There is another rumour here, that the regiment's 
 destination is Mulmain, a place in Burmah ; I do not think 
 you will find it in the map, as that country is very little 
 known to Europeans ; it is bordering on the Bay of Ben- 
 gal, and nearly opposite to Madras, a delightful climate,- 
 and every thing that one can wish for is there, but it is 
 very isolated. Should we go there, we should be under 
 the necessity of building houses for our accommodation, 
 which would be very expensive, and Government do not 
 allow any compensation. Their reason for their proposed 
 sending us there is, that we should act as a defence for the 
 place, in the event of war. They have already taken pre- 
 cautions in other parts, by sending troops to the frontiers. 
 It may all, however, pass over with a threat, as the King 
 of Burmah must know that he has very little chance of 
 success. I am not very anxious for a war, as there is 
 
17 
 
 nothing to be gained but fevers and agues ; but enough of 
 this, as it cannot be interesting to you. Your account of 
 " Felicite" very much amused me how absurd her conduct 
 is. I should have supposed that her attachment to you 
 would have induced her to accompany you. The man 
 named Sharp, whom you mention in your letter, I do not 
 recollect ; nor do I recollect having met any young man at 
 
 Mrs. M 's, though I went there often. The marriage 
 
 of must have been very soon got up, and very unex- 
 pected, as he did not appear to be a man much inclined to 
 marry. His brother in Calcutta is not visited because he 
 keeps a shop, but is in a fair way of making money. This 
 part of the world is so generally dull, that occurrences are 
 stagnant ; nothing new happens, nothing to interest. Our 
 people appear to have no anxiety, no energy until the over- 
 land mail arrives, then a new life animates us all for a few 
 days. Nothing is talked of but the news from England ; 
 every one makes his comment upon things passing there 
 one surprised at this occurrence, another at that, and a new 
 spirit seems to be infused into all ; but this soon dies away, 
 and the generality fall back into their former lethargy. All 
 this has little influence on me. I enjoy myself rationally : 
 my usual time of rising is half-past five, when the officers 
 attend drill until seven o'clock, after which I and a few 
 others walk until eight, at which time it begins to get 
 warm ; at half-past eight I breakfast, and from nine until 
 eleven my moushee, or Hindoostanee teacher, attends me; 
 from that hour I read and study the language alone. I 
 have a master that does not speak a word of English ; I 
 am, therefore, necessitated to learn everything in Hindoos- 
 tanee. I do not, however, find it difficult, as the verbs are 
 almost all regular ; the gender of words are the only diffi- 
 culty, as they can only be learned by long practice. It is a 
 great convenience to make oneself understood, few of these 
 people being able to speak English. I have been for the 
 
18 
 
 last week in Calcutta, one of our officers, a Captain 
 Douglas, and myself, having gone down at the invitation 
 of a French family ; it being race week, and Calcutta quite 
 full, they hired a large boat, and in this we dined every 
 day. It was delightful, as in the day time we saw every- 
 thing from our boat that passed on shore ; and in the 
 evening we took a drive on the esplanade, looking and 
 being looked at by the esprits of Calcutta. As there was 
 a ball to be given in honour of Queen Victoria, Captain 
 Douglas obtained tickets, and I went there with a large 
 party, the first I had attended since coming to Calcutta, 
 although there had been many at the Government House. 
 It was quite English, and you might have fancied yourself 
 for a moment in England. I have not got a horse, nor do 
 I intend getting one until I go up the country ; the expense 
 of keeping is very little. You tell me nothing of Lewis, 
 but I suppose you have heard little of him. Tell Helena 
 there are plenty of husbands out here for her. There were 
 a couple married in Calcutta, a short time ago, who had 
 only known each other ten days. Short courtship ! Matches 
 are not now so frequent as formerly. I hope when I hear 
 from you next that you will be quite restored. Change of 
 air at least must do you some good. I do not think you 
 will find it so cold as you expected in the winter, as from 
 the situation of the house you are protected from the cold 
 winds. Write often. I walk every morning to the post- 
 office enquiring for letters. I am anxious to hear every- 
 thing that occurs to you. I hope you will be successful in 
 obtaining William his appointment before I go up the 
 country, as I shall be able to assist him. Give my love to 
 Helena and the boys. Remember me most affectionately 
 to the governor ; and believe me, 
 
 Your very affectionate Brother, 
 
 J. S. GUMMING. 
 
19 
 
 Chinsura, March 10th, 1838. 
 
 My dear Helena Have you become a nun, and made a 
 vow to communicate with no one. I have only received 
 one letter from you since I arrived in India. I know you 
 like writing, as your long sheets to Louisa Churchill used 
 to testify. You do not know how I long for a letter from 
 you, so write anything, and as much nonsense as you can ; 
 one living in England can have no idea of life here ; the 
 contrast is awful ; confinement to the house is the greatest 
 misery in this country. How much the boasted luxuries 
 of this country have been exaggerated ; I have met with 
 very few, and if there are any they are counterbalanced by 
 greater evils. A lady coming to this country must give up 
 all hopes of enjoyment ; but notwithstanding all its incon- 
 veniences, I am very well contented, and have succeeded in 
 making myself as comfortable as it is possible to be. I am 
 living, very much against my will, in barracks, a very long 
 white building, capable of accommodating fifteen or sixteen 
 officers, allowing two large rooms for each, so that I have 
 two rooms, each as large as the parlour at Magheracloone. 
 Fancy one with nice white-washed walls, and stone floor 
 covered with matting, in which are a table, four chairs, 
 and a sofa, also a shelf hung up against the wall, and full 
 of books, and you behold my parlour ; the other serves as 
 sleeping and bathing-room, for in this country a bath is 
 the greatest luxury. This room looks out on the parade- 
 ground, with a view of the river flowing onwards on the 
 right ; a long row of fine trees intercept the view on the 
 left ; in front, and in a parallel line, are the barracks for 
 the soldiers, together with the hospital ; but all around the 
 trees usurp every inch of ground, except where you see 
 large lack houses, formerly belonging to rich Baboos, but 
 now in ruins. I look forward with joy to the prospect of 
 going up the country next cold season, the advantages are 
 so great, both as to health and means. I have been down 
 
to Calcutta very often, and confess I like it better each 
 time. It is surmised that it is to be the destination of the 
 regiment, but I hope not. I have no Indian news to give 
 you, everything is at a stand still. I have heard a great 
 
 deal concerning Mr. J and family, and not much to 
 
 his credit. He went to the Mauritius, conducted by the 
 9th regiment ; he behaved very ill to the officers, even on 
 board ship, and was cut by almost all of them ; he showed 
 himself a tyrant in almost all his transactions at the Mauri- 
 tius. You have heard, I suppose, that poor Margaret 
 
 is dead ; she died at the Cape, on their voyage out to 
 Ceylon. She is considered the nicer girl of the two. 
 
 Miss J is to be married to Mr. B ; it is no longer 
 
 doubtful, as the mother and daughter are going home for 
 that purpose. I dare say now you would like to hear 
 something concerning myself, and the little world around 
 me, for a regiment is truly a little world of itself. Colonel 
 McCaskill having left us, the command has devolved on 
 Major Taylor, who is determined that no blame shall 
 attach to him if his officers are not efficient, as he has not 
 relaxed in the least the drill of the regiment, although the 
 usual season for drill is over, and the heat is becoming 
 very disagreeable. You may be sure there are many 
 grumblers, but I am not of the number. 
 
 There are some very odd characters in the 9th, whom I 
 would describe to you, but it would be too tedious ; but I 
 will give you one or two there is our senior captain, a tall 
 stout man, who, not being married, and having nothing to 
 do, speculates upon the chances of promotion, disposes of 
 one officer, kills another. I have seen a great deal of 
 him ; he is a man I never could esteem. Another, an old 
 
 lieutenant, Bt. Captain R , a kind-hearted droll fellow, 
 
 equally a favorite with all ; he and his father disputed the 
 title of the Duke of Roxburgh with the present possessor, 
 and lost it, after having spent all their fortune in the con- 
 
21 
 
 test, and he has, therefore, nothing now but the poor 
 pittance of a lieutenant's pay. To outward appearance, he 
 seems to have forgotten his loss, but a vexation of spirit 
 lurks under his semblance of gaiety, and he evidently 
 resorts to every species of excitement, to flee from his own 
 thoughts. With all the younger officers, I am as intimate 
 as people living together generally are, and there is only 
 
 one with whom I am on bad terms his name is Mr. , 
 
 not , for in appearance he is just the opposite of that 
 
 little gentleman. When I first arrived in the regiment we 
 were very intimate, but as I came to know him more, I 
 discovered his character; this, however, would not have 
 been sufficient reason for dropping his acquaintance, but 
 his subsequent conduct was so offensive, that I cut him at 
 once, and I have never recognised him since. I give you a 
 full account, as I know you will be interested in every 
 little transaction. Do you keep up your correspondence 
 
 with Louisa C ? Do not be angry with me for asking 
 
 such a question. At a dinner-party, given by Captain 
 
 D , I met a Mrs. R , who had just arrived from 
 
 Simla, where the C s are at present. She says, that 
 
 L is not thought so pretty as formerly. She is very 
 
 pale, never sings, and only plays a few favorite waltzes. I 
 long to hear something from you. What is to be your future 
 destination ? You had better come out here ; there is a 
 
 good opportunity of doing so, as General F intends 
 
 bringing out his daughters in the course of a year. I had 
 expected that William would have had his appointment, as 
 I am anxious for his arrival in this country before the 
 regiment leaves Bengal. Young men, just arriving, are so 
 apt to get into debt, from unavoidably associating with 
 young cadets, who are either thoughtless, or of expensive 
 
 habits. Young N , who came out with me, is an 
 
 example of this. Having obtained leave of absence, I went 
 to Barrackpore and stayed with him for a week. I found 
 
him living with two other young men, and though their 
 expenses were not great, they had managed to get into 
 debt each to the sum of 500 rupees, in the short space of six 
 months. A cadet can live very well on his pay it exceeds 
 that of an ensign in Her Majesty's Service. Great pro- 
 motion is anticipated in the 9th, as there are a number of 
 officers on leave in England, who do not intend joining 
 again, and as I am now third from the top of the list, my 
 lieutenancy is not far distant. 
 
 We have just received notice from Sir Willoughby 
 Cotton, commanding the Bengal Presidency, that it is his 
 intention to go through a thorough examination of the 
 officers (an unusual thing). This has startled the lazy 
 ones, of whom we have not a few. I am determined that 
 he shall not find me deficient. There is a strong pre- 
 sumption that we shall be ordered to Burmah in the cold 
 season, as things appear to be drawing to a crisis ; and 
 orders have been issued already to two regiments to pro- 
 ceed there. Write, write ; I long to hear where you are, 
 and where you will be. I enjoy excellent health, although 
 the sudden changes are very trying. I should be delighted 
 to see you all out here, provided that your destination was 
 the upper provinces, a few years' residence here would 
 soon disgust any one. Give my love to Harriet and the 
 boys ; love also to my father ; and believe me, dearest 
 Helena, Your very affectionate Brother, 
 
 J. S. GUMMING. 
 
 August 1st, 1838. 
 
 My dear Harriet I received your letter of February, 
 1838, in July, and read with horror your account of 
 the diabolical attempt made upon your lives. My appre- 
 hensions, however, were soon set at rest, by the latter part 
 of your letter. From what an awful fate have you all 
 escaped ; I shudder to think what might have been the 
 
23 
 
 consequences. It is a consolation, however, to know that 
 the only results have been a little momentary fright. How 
 fiendish a heart that must be, that could not only conceive 
 the design, but also attempt the execution of it. It is 
 very evident that many were concerned, in order to accom- 
 plish some purpose of their own ; an individual would not 
 have dared to proceed to so sweeping a destruction, for the 
 satisfaction of his own revenge. This is another of the 
 many instances of implacable determination of the Catho- 
 lics to root out every Protestant from Ireland ; thus they 
 are little scrupulous as to the means they employ, so long 
 as those means tend to hasten the accomplishment of their 
 wishes. 
 
 I am delighted to hear that you are all so comfortable, 
 and I really think, that ere long, retirement will have so 
 many charms, before unseen, you will feel regret at the 
 prospect of your return to the imaginary comforts of city 
 life ; besides, you now have the cheerful feeling of being 
 in a house that you can call your own, free to act as you 
 like, and from under the watchful eyes of inquisitive neigh- 
 bours, independent of many wants, which living in society 
 render absolutely necessary to keep up appearances, 
 although one may not be well able to afford the expense. 
 
 I am very, very sorry, to hear the bad account of your 
 health, and I hope when the next letter reaches, it will bear 
 more consoling news. How r ever, you are still cheerful, if I 
 can judge from the expressions of your letter ; and my dear 
 Harriet, make up your mind, and do what you have been 
 deprecating so much become a stately matron. You 
 would represent the dignity of that station to perfection. 
 How do you like my exhortation ? The rainy season here 
 is now in its full force, being generally most violent as it 
 draws to a close. We have suffered an awful hot season, 
 but I am glad to say we got over it tolerably well. I was 
 seized with a very slight fever in May, and soon got well ; 
 
24- 
 
 with the exception of that, I have had no actual illness 
 since I entered the country. The hot weather has made 
 ine very thin. 
 
 We are in daily expectation of receiving orders to move 
 up the country whither, no one yet knows ; indeed, it is 
 not known that we are to go up, but the general opinion is 
 such. However, I will not dispatch this letter until I can 
 inform you positively. It will cause me some expense, as 
 it will be necessary to procure a horse (for I have not 
 bought one yet), a tent conveyance, &c., but I think I 
 shall be able to defray everything. The report of a Bur- 
 mese war has fallen to the ground ; but there is still great 
 probability of one, and one, too, on a very large scale, 
 with the Persians, Nepaulese, and many other smaller 
 states. Lord Auckland has written home for instructions 
 how to act. The most important operations will be carried 
 on in the Punjaub, along the banks of the Indus. Prepa- 
 rations are making to commence hostilities, should it be 
 deemed necessary, and the aspect of affairs around betokens 
 a long, difficult, and desperate conflict. The different 
 states are in secret league with each other, and the rising 
 of any considerable one, will be a signal for all. I was not 
 aware till now that Mrs. Smith had been so kind in her 
 intentions. She and her people are very nice people, and 
 have a large family ; he has a great taste for theatricals, 
 can compose, and sing a good song ; he has a fund of stories, 
 and a peculiar way of telling them, that is Very amusing, 
 and makes him a pleasant companion. There is another 
 married man whom I have not mentioned in any of my 
 letters Lieutenant French. He was eight years an ensign 
 (an awful reflection for me to ponder over), but then he 
 served all that time in Europe. He and I are great friends ; 
 we have agreed to join expenses on the march, and thereby 
 manage to be as economical as possible. You must remem- 
 ber, I am only talking in anticipation, for a soldier can be 
 
25 
 
 sure of nothing ; and talking of a soldier, your remarks are 
 very just, there is no life which conduces so much to idle- 
 ness, if a person's natural disposition is idle; but at the 
 same time, there is no life which holds out so many oppor- 
 tunities for improvement, provided one is so inclined ; but 
 as for study, that is a word almost obsolete in this country, 
 and in the hot weather the air is so enervating that it inca- 
 pacitates one from long attention to anything. However, 
 notwithstanding all this, time does not hang very heavy on 
 me, and month seems to follow month so rapidly, that one 
 almost fancies, that tired of his slow but sure pace, he has 
 become more kind to us poor mortals. You have, of course, 
 received an account of Louisa Churchill's marriage. She 
 has married a Captain Michell, nephew and aid de camp to 
 Sir Henry Fane. I hear nothing of them. The last from 
 Helena Mrs. General Churchill sent me with her compliments. 
 I believe they are still at Simla. You tell me to give you an 
 account of whatever relations I may meet, but there is not 
 one in this part of the country ; they must be all up the 
 country, and even there they are but few. Life here is so 
 monotonous, and the hurried occurrences of every day are 
 so unimportant, that you must not be surprised if this letter 
 is devoid of interest. We have nothing to talk of, but 
 whatever most nearly concerns ourselves, and our own inte- 
 rests ; nothing on all sides but expectations of promotion, 
 brooding over disappointments, and every one thinking him- 
 self a most injured man. My ideas of this regiment have 
 greatly changed since my first introduction into it ; and pas- 
 sing events have given me an insight into the characters of 
 two or three of my fellow officers, whose actions are no way 
 creditable to them ; but as there is not space for an account, 
 I defer giving you the details until I next write. My 
 chance of promotion is favourable, and I may calculate 
 on my lieutenancy in a year and half at the furthest. By 
 referring to the army list, you will find my name at the top 
 
as senior ensign. I am speaking in anticipation of a step 
 by the Brevet. I shall not be able to inform you of our 
 move up the country, as it is expected that we shall not 
 have an order before the end of this month, if even that, 
 and then the disagreeable feeling of another roasting in the 
 ensuing hot weather. I expected to receive a letter every 
 month, for recollect, you are many to one, and your 
 interests and concerns are matters of the utmost anxiety 
 to me. I wish I could snatch one short glance at you all, 
 but as that is denied, I will rest satisfied with thinking of 
 you ; indeed, this place is so dull that I shall be delighted 
 to leave it ; it tends to promote thinking. I have thought 
 more this season alone than in the whole course of my life. 
 Write, write a lecture if you will, I am ready to receive 
 all impressions, though to retain only those that suit me ; 
 but as you would not say anything that was not for my 
 good, I am in no fear of turning unruly. Give me some 
 salutary advice in all little refinements towards the fair sex. 
 You must know I intend becoming a great beau when I 
 get to Cawnpore or Meerut. Tell Helena I am looking 
 out for a husband for her, but I cannot find one I like 
 they exhibit too much of the yellow in their bony visages. 
 Fancy me, on my return, a tall, lank, bony, yellow animal. 
 Is there really no prospect for a cadetship for William ? I 
 wait patiently for news, and hope for better prospects. 
 Give my love to the boys. William will soon be too great 
 a man for me a barrister is a very dignified personage. I 
 should have no chance with Locke or Blackstone. Tell 
 Robert I hope he beats them all at chess. My best love 
 to my governor and Helena ; and believe me, my dear 
 Harriet, with anxious wishes for your health, 
 
 Your affectionate Brother, 
 
 J. S. GUMMING, 
 
 Captain to be. 
 
C. H t 
 
 27 
 
 Chinsura, Oct. 1st, 1838. 
 
 My dear Father I have been in daily expectation of 
 receiving a letter from you, your last, dated June, 1837, 
 being the only one that has reached me since my arrival in 
 India. My disappointment must, however, be ascribed to 
 delay in the shipping, as many that have been expected long 
 before this date have not yet made their appearance. The 
 regiment is still stationed here, and by all accounts, likely 
 to remain the ensuing winter and summer. General 
 !/ Churchill intimated as much to our commanding officer; 
 but the state of affairs in India, from the designs of ene- 
 mies on all sides, involves every measure of Government 
 in so much mystery, that it would be impossible to form a 
 conjecture of our future destination with any probability 
 of truth. We have all been deploring our lot in not being in- 
 cluded in the expedition to Cabul, which is to set out from 
 Kernaul, in its progress to that country, on 31st October, 
 1838. The army amounts to 20,000 men, a force which 
 the commander-in-chief (Sir H. Fane) does not deem ade- 
 quate to the vastness of the undertaking, as being scarcely 
 sufficient to keep up the line of communication. All 
 primary obstacles in Cabul and Candahar overcome, the 
 final determination is to march upon Herat, with the view 
 of taking possession of that important place. It is reported 
 that the Russians are in force in this quarter, for the 
 ostensible purpose of assisting the Persians ; but in reality 
 to obtain a firm footing in that country, in order to forward 
 their hostile designs against our Indian possessions. Their 
 soldiery would indeed prove formidable opponents to the 
 Company's sepoys, from two opposite points to Cabul. 
 We are threatened by enemies the people of Nepaul and 
 Burmah ; and in the event of any decided outbreak on their 
 part, we should instantly be dispatched for service in the 
 field against one of those powers. However, in the course 
 of two months all uncertainties will be cleared away ; and 
 
28 
 
 we shall then know whether to brace ourselves for the 
 enlivening and stirring duties of war, or to fall back into 
 the listless monotony of our present existence. In the 
 internal transactions of the regiment in which we, as offi- 
 cers, are of course particularly interested, there has been 
 of late some commotion, arising from the insubordination 
 of one of our community, who has been brought to a 
 Court-martial. However, I will not enter into any of the 
 details, as you will read them in the public papers. It is 
 the general opinion among the older officers here, that from 
 the course he is still pursuing, he will irretrievably commit 
 himself. He lives with his father, who, instead of correct- 
 ing him, and pointing out to him the consequences of his 
 course of conduct, upholds him in all his irregularities, 
 asserting to every remonstrance made to him, that his son 
 performs his duties in as proper and strict a manner as any 
 other officer. However, his conduct is not so astonishing 
 when you know that his coincides with that of some few 
 others of the same spirit, who have lately been introduced 
 to the corps, and have brought with them some loose prin- 
 ciples and worse manners, to contaminate and destroy the 
 good fellowship of the regiment , which I am grieved to say 
 they have succeeded in doing. There is a total want of 
 that brotherly feeling which should pervade the whole 
 community, and which is so essential to the well-being of 
 the corps, when each meets each with true cordiality not 
 with a reluctant bow, or an hypocritical grin on the coun- 
 tenance. One would be tempted to believe that it was a 
 delight to a set of officers to stare and sneer at their com- 
 panions, to make ungentlemanly insinuations at mess-table, 
 and to converse in language unbecoming to themselves and 
 their professions. This is at present the conduct of some 
 of them, insomuch that they have disgusted the better 
 part, who now seldom appear at dinner, preferring to 
 remain in their own apartments free from the annoyance 
 
of such a presence of bad spirits ; and thus, instead of the 
 main object of a public mess being gained (the prevalence 
 of good feeling throughout), a result totally the reverse has 
 ensued. This is the present state of the regiment, but 
 there is every reason to believe that it cannot last much 
 longer. I have been anxiously desiring a letter from you, 
 and usually walk two miles to the Post-office in expectation 
 of receiving one; but am generally disappointed. The 
 last letter I received was one from Harriet, dated 19th Feb., 
 1838, which I have answered. I feel myself as comfortable 
 as can be expected in a country like this, and am, I am 
 happy to say, on the best terms with most of the officers, 
 particularly the married portion. There are four among 
 the single men with whom I have no communication. Per- 
 haps you will condemn my resolution; but I could not 
 persuade myself to keep the slightest semblance of intimacy 
 with persons whose whole conduct and manners disgusted 
 me. They are held in great disrespect by the majority, 
 many of whom have entirely broken off all acquaintance 
 with them. I suppose you are all still settled at Magher- 
 acloone, with no intention of removing ; and it is a conso- 
 lation to feel that you have, in some degree, escaped from 
 the annoyance of the world. If William could obtain a 
 cadetship now, there is open a grand field for promotion ; 
 and if there was any prospect of his coming out, he could, 
 at his own request, be posted to any regiment he preferred ; 
 so that by this means we might manage to be together. It 
 is most necessary to take the greatest care of yourself on 
 your first arrival in this country. The climate is so deadly 
 in its effects, and disease so rapid in its progress, that the 
 best constitution, presuming on its robustness, and fancying 
 itself proof against any attack, too often falls a victim to 
 its rashness. No less than five officers have, in consequence 
 of illness, been obliged to return to England in the lapse 
 of six months alone. One of them was a constant com- 
 
panion of mine, and had been generally in the best health. 
 He was, however, reduced so low after a few weeks' illness, 
 that it was quite pitiful to behold him. He was a young 
 man of my own age an ensign then, but a lieutenant now, 
 that is, if he is alive ; for, judging from the shattered con- 
 dition he was in on leaving India, few hopes of his recovery 
 were entertained. Ensign Morgan was his name. He is 
 now second or third on the list of lieutenants. At the 
 present time I am at the head of the ensigns, so that I have 
 no reason to be dissatisfied, as I consider that my advance- 
 ment has been very rapid. There are no occurrences of 
 interest to break in upon the monotony of our lives, and 
 the inhabitants of Chinsura contribute very little to each 
 other's enjoyments. Evening parties are very seldom 
 given ; and when they do take place, music or singing are 
 quite banished from them. Dinner parties are less frequent 
 still, which, however, is not of much consequence. Con- 
 versation seems to be a kind of labour to the persons 
 assembled ; and topics are so scanty, or so soon exhausted, 
 that a total silence very often ensues, which is only broken 
 by common-place remarks, or the repetition of truisms. 
 I have been studying the Hindoostany with a Moushee ; 
 but have within the last three months relinquished the as- 
 sistance of that teacher, as I find it too expensive ; but I 
 still continue to pursue it with the assistance of books; 
 and in the event of our going to a station in the upper 
 provinces, I shall be able to prosecute my studies to such 
 a frequency as will enable me to pass the examination 
 necessary to entitle me to an interpreter ship. It is astonish- 
 ing how few young men in the European regiments ever 
 think of applying themselves to the language of the coun- 
 try, and even with their servants carry on a communication 
 by signs, or a few stray words which they could not help 
 learning in their contact with the natives. There is one 
 great nuisance in this country, which is, the necessity of 
 
31 
 
 having a number of servants, as their different castes bind 
 each down to a separate performance of duties from which 
 he dares not deviate. At a dinner of twenty persons each 
 is attended by his own servant ; so that in the room there 
 are, at one time, forty persons assembled. This, in such a 
 climate, is intolerable. I have not met with any relation 
 in this part of the country, nor have I heard of any, the 
 
 F s excepted. One of the sons has taken a large 
 
 house outside of Calcutta, for the accommodation of his 
 father on his arrival, which is expected in the course of 
 next month. His family will be an acceptable addition to 
 the formal society of Calcutta, which is at present very 
 small. I have heard little of the Churchills. Mrs. Mi- 
 chael's husband goes with the expedition to Cabul, so that 
 she will be left behind with her mother. General Churchill, 
 it is said, must come down to Barrackpoor in the cold 
 season; and of course, as he will be stationary here for 
 some time, he will bring with him his wife and daughter. 
 I may thus have an opportunity of seeing them. I am 
 indeed most anxious to learn whether everything has turned 
 out to your satisfaction ; for what changes must have taken 
 place from the lapse of time since my departure from you. 
 I long to know what you intend doing with the boys ; and 
 I hope the next letter from Harriet will assure me of her 
 better health. Surely an Irish summer ought to have a 
 salutary effect. I anxiously desire to hear from you. 
 With affectionate remembrance to the boys, and most 
 affectionate love to yourself, Harriet, and Helena, I close 
 this letter. My dear Father, your ever dutiful Son, 
 
 JAMES SLATOR GUMMING. 
 
 Chinsura, Oct. 19th, 1838. 
 
 My dearest Helena I have this day received your letter 
 dated May 14th, 1838, communicating the death of grand- 
 mama. That intelligence I had, however, previously re- 
 
32 
 
 ceived in a letter from L , which I suppose he had 
 
 taken care to despatch with the greatest expedition. I 
 have, in all, received two communications from him, of 
 which I did not think it necessary to inform either my 
 father or you ; because his demands, from their unreason- 
 ableness, could not meet with compliance from you, and to 
 which I, on my own part, would not submit. His first 
 letter reached me on May 1 1 th, which he tells me is for 
 the especial purpose of reminding me of a promise, which 
 he asserts I made to him in England. He goes on to say 
 that something whispers to him an assurance that he will 
 not be deceived. He possesses a sort of inventive memory. 
 This letter I have answered to the following import: 
 that, upon consideration) it cannot but occur to his mind, 
 that in making such a promise, I exposed myself to the 
 hazard of breaking it; and he must be convinced of the 
 impossibility of my having ever made any such promise. 
 His second letter is dated April 5th, 1838 a month earlier 
 than yours, which is unreasonable and absurd. I have 
 taken no notice of it, and of course will disregard any 
 further application from him. In this letter he informs 
 me of Grandmama's death, with this addition, that, "in 
 accordance with the will of my late grandfather, Mr. Slator, 
 the Naas property is to be sold for the benefit of my 
 brothers, sisters, and self my sisters' portion 800 each, 
 the residue to be divided between me and my brothers. 
 Further, he had written to Harriet and to my father to 
 the same effect. Of course, my dearest Helen, it is need- 
 less making any remarks upon demands of so unreasonable 
 a nature. The expressions with which he concludes his 
 letter prove him to be destitute of all sentiments of pro- 
 priety or delicacy. However, let them pass with what they 
 best merit contempt. This is more particularly for my 
 father's information. I intended to have given him a full 
 account, but delayed in expectation of a letter from himself. 
 
33 
 
 I am disappointed. I dispatched one to him on the 1st of 
 October, 1838. Should you have anything important, 
 I think the Overland* would be the most speedy and sure 
 channel of communication. The expense is not much 
 more than that per ship. And now, my dearest Helena, 
 what an accusation you prefer against me in regard to let- 
 ters. I assure you I have been congratulating myself 
 upon the applause I should receive for my punctuality. It 
 is most extraordinary that you have not had any from me, 
 as I have written frequently. I am delighted to hear that 
 you are so contented and comfortable in your present 
 situation, and that your presence has converted a wilderness 
 into a paradise. I miss you and Harriet much, very much. 
 Oh, that you were here, or I there ! It is said retrospec- 
 tion imparts feelings of pleasure and delight ; but I find it 
 otherwise. When I look back upon scenes past, and con- 
 trast them with the present, melancholy thoughts come 
 over me ; and a sensation of loneliness too truly reminds me 
 that all those with whom I could sympathize are far, far 
 away, and that all is a coarse interested world around me. 
 
 I am deeply grieved to hear such bad accounts of Har- 
 riet. I am glad to hear that William and Robert are so 
 soon to become votaries to the learned arts, and I hope 
 they will neglect no advantage of improving themselves. 
 Tell them, I now sincerely regret the time I lost in trifling 
 pursuits, which I might have employed to more lasting 
 objects. 
 
 I cannot but feel sorry that the prospect of all appoint- 
 ments to this country for any one of the boys seems entirely 
 vanished. You make no allusion to it in your letter. 
 
 My dearest Helena, I must not omit one observation. 
 
 You have paid me a most rare compliment, by implying 
 
 that a certain young gentleman must be a soldier, as he 
 
 has not much head. Poor me ! Come, I will vindicate 
 
 * The Overland route was then in its infancy. 
 
 D 
 
34 
 
 the profession. Like all other professions, men only of 
 superior intelligence and talents gain a station for them- 
 selves; while those of inferior parts fill up the lower 
 grades, and never can pass that boundary, which is beyond 
 their abilities. So in all situations. Talent and ability 
 advance step by step mediocrity remains stationary. 
 How many brainless barristers are there how many medical 
 quacks, though possessing diplomas ! In short, eminence, 
 in whatever profession, is truly to be attained by the same 
 acquirements and capacities. I have not followed up 
 Italian. That language has given way to its opposite 
 the most barbarous, harsh Hindostany, which, however, it 
 is most incumbent to know. French I have improved in, 
 from my intercourse with the families in the French station 
 near us. I have had frequent invitations to dinner and 
 balls, all of which I, of course, attended. These enter- 
 tainments take place in the winter, being the only time we 
 can enjoy ourselves. In the summer months, we are using 
 the best means for preventing the melting away of our 
 goodly persons, which I assure you is by no means an un- 
 important occupation. The present weather is delightful 
 it is raining in torrents, with a high wind; and you 
 have no idea what vigour and life a sudden change of this 
 kind imparts to us poor animals. 
 
 Ask me all the questions you can think of. I shall be 
 delighted to answer any. You do not know how much is 
 necessary to keep us alive here ; so say, do anything. No- 
 thing is a trifle to me. You ask me who are my friends. 
 Captain Douglas and Lieut. French. The former I am 
 almost always with; and though he is much older than 
 me, still he is not the less a fitting companion. French is 
 also much older ; but he is a sincere, true-hearted fellow, 
 and we are one in our opinions and notions. They are 
 both married. These are particular friends. Then there 
 is another with whom I am a great favourite an old Cap- 
 
35 
 
 tain. He familiarly calls me No. 5 not by my proper 
 name. His reason is this. Each captain has a company 
 under his command, in which are two or three subalterns- 
 In his company, however, there was only one subaltern, 
 and I was that one. I used to relieve him in many of his 
 duties, and he left many things to my performance which 
 he would have to do himself, as he alone was responsible. 
 However, in the regimental changes, I was transferred to 
 another company, and some one else put in my place, who 
 gave him a great deal of trouble ; and now, in remembrance 
 of our former fellowship, he always calls me No. 5, the 
 number of the company he commanded. 
 
 You ask me about M' . He is no longer of the 
 regiment; but before he went, his conduct made me a 
 
 stranger to him. He is now in the regiment. I have 
 
 heard nothing of Mr. N since he joined his regiment, 
 
 as we do not correspond. The other cadet that came out 
 with me is dead. I saw him in Calcutta last winter in the 
 best health ; but I believe he was carried off by fever. I 
 have seen death too frequently already. It is everywhere 
 seizing some one, and that instantaneously in this country. 
 But a few months ago, two of our officers, who lived suc- 
 cessively in the rooms above mine, (a consoling reflection, 
 the living so near the fatal room!) were carried off by 
 cholera in less than twelve hours. You mention my aunt, 
 
 Mrs. . I have heard, seen, know nothing of her. Do 
 
 not know where she lives. I have met no relations, no 
 friends here, nor am I conscious of the existence of such. 
 I am very limited in my expenses, not having yet bought a 
 horse. I do not intend purchasing one until a grand move 
 up the country, in which case it is an absolute necessity. 
 I assure you the cheapness of this country is much exag- 
 gerated: horses are dearer than in England; articles of 
 clothing much dearer. 
 
 Harriet promised to send me out your pictures. I should 
 
36 
 
 be delighted to have them. I have preserved the drawing 
 you gave me, (Early Called to the Bar) ; the little red case 
 still covers my bible. Helen, I have not forgot you. These 
 still remain to remind me of the kindness, the affection, 
 perhaps too little requited, of my own dear, far distant 
 sisters. However, my own thoughts recur to them again 
 and again ; and I for a moment fancy myself at home with 
 you at Magheracloone, seated round the fire. I am afraid 
 that fancy is far, far distant from becoming a reality. And 
 now, my dearest Helena, I have begun and finished this 
 letter without rising from my seat ; and you will not think 
 me, after this, careless. Remember me 'with kindest love 
 to the boys. With the most affectionate love to father, 
 Harriet, and yourself, I remain, dearest Helena, 
 
 Your very attached, beloved brother, 
 
 JAMES SLATOR GUMMING. 
 
 P. S. I send this by the Herefordshire) which sails 
 about the 1st of November. 
 
 Chinsura, Nov. 14th, 1838. 
 
 My dear Father Your letter, dated 18th June, 1838, I 
 received 14th November, and it gave me the greatest plea- 
 sure, as I have been long in expectation of one ; and I do 
 not lose a moment in answering you. Your approbation 
 of my proposal respecting my lieutenancy, assures me that 
 you would not consider my conduct wrong in putting into 
 effect that proposal. But from the advice you gave me in 
 your letter to avoid embarrassing myself under any circum- 
 stance, it appears to me now by far preferable not to pur- 
 chase, but to await with patience my lieutenancy ; of the 
 propriety of which you will be more fully convinced, from 
 the knowledge that I am at present the senior ensign ; and 
 although one step may be lost (which is likely), still there 
 is every probability of a vacancy, without purchase, ensuing 
 
37 
 
 before long. Taking this view, I am sure you will concur 
 with me, in the opinion that the design should be entirely 
 given up. At the time I wrote to you about this, no one 
 out here expected the rapid promotion which has taken 
 place among the lower grades ; it was rather looked for 
 among the higher. Even if I do not obtain my lieutenancy 
 soon, I am very well contented to wait a year, or more, as 
 I am only nineteen, and in that respect have a great advan- 
 tage over all the young officers, both above and below me. 
 While on this subject, I cannot omit to make you aware of 
 the unremitting kindness, which Major Douglas has shewn 
 me from the moment that I first became acquainted with 
 him ; as an instance of which, he has lately been very 
 earnest in assuring me that I must have no scruples in 
 applying to him for money, should I be placed in any diffi- 
 culty by the expenses of a removal to a distant station ; 
 however, my own resources place me beyond availing my- 
 self of his kind offer, as in anticipation of a move, and the 
 expenses consequent to it, I have been able to save a sum 
 more than sufficient to meet them. 
 
 We had already given up all hopes of leaving Chinsura 
 this year, when a communication was unexpectedly received 
 from Quarter-Master-General Churchill, enjoining us to 
 hold ourselves in readiness for an immediate march to 
 Hazerabagh, an isolated station, about two hundred miles 
 up the country, and we are consequently in all the bustle 
 of preparation, expecting to receive the marching order 
 every day. The expenses will not be light, as tents, car- 
 riages, &c. are rather dear. Marching is very different 
 from that in England ; here each officer is absolutely 
 obliged to have seven or eight attendants at least, and 
 everything is defrayed from the private purse of the indi- 
 vidual. 
 
 I am delighted to hear that you are so comfortably settled, 
 and that your affairs are in so satisfactory a situation. 
 According to your injunctions, no reply, of course, will be 
 
38 
 
 given to any communications from Europe. I have already 
 
 received a letter from L , acquainting me that the 
 
 N property is to be sold (which is now proved incorrect) ; 
 sisters to receive 800 each ; the residue to be divided 
 between brothers and self. He goes on with some unrea- 
 sonable requests, which I have stated in a letter to Helena 
 for your perusal. I have, of course, taken no notice of it ; 
 but I think it probable that he will overwhelm me with his 
 correspondence, as he threatened me with duplicates of 
 his letters, in order that he might be sure of his wishes 
 reaching their destination. 
 
 Your account of the conspiracy of Frank, and other 
 relations, prove how little we can ever expect from them, 
 when the sense of justice and right gives way to the dictates 
 of selfishness and interest. Who could suppose that the 
 apparently gentle Ellen could lend herself to such prac- 
 tices ! but appearances too often deceive, as I have already 
 begun to experience. 
 
 Captain has left India with his regiment, and has 
 
 by this time arrived in England. I did not hear anything 
 of his pecuniary affairs, except that he was much in debt ; 
 but I should think, that unless he had possessed some 
 means of liquidating a part of his debts, he would never 
 have been allowed to leave this country. However, I will 
 not close this letter until I have gained all possible infor- 
 mation, which I may do, as I am going down to Calcutta. 
 I never hear anything of a relation in this part of the 
 country. Charles Thomas is coming to Calcutta in order 
 to go to sea, for the benefit of his health, so at least the 
 
 newspaper states. Lieut. F wrote me a note, saying, 
 
 that his father, with three daughters and a son, is expected 
 in about ten days, from England. He will, most likely, 
 command a division of the army in Cabul. 
 
 We have little to occupy us here, except the usual 
 routine of regimental duties. The regiment is at present 
 commanded by one of its majors, both colonels being 
 
39 
 
 absent. He is a very good-natured man, but very slow ; 
 more fit for the station of paymaster, than that of disci- 
 plining a corps ; however, most of us like him. Perhaps 
 you may remember to have seen him, as he comes from 
 
 Monaghan; his name is . He has one peculiarity 
 
 he has a thorough knowledge of the army-list, which he 
 displays on all occasions. 
 
 Expense of living in Chinsura is not great ; I can live 
 very well on my pay, which amounts to one hundred and 
 thirty rupees, or thirteen pounds a month. I do not, how- 
 ever, always get that sum, deductions being made, some- 
 times for mess and subscriptions those two items are a 
 great hardship to the ensigns, but we must remain content. 
 I am, indeed, able to save a little, two or three pounds a 
 month, and sometimes something more, but only with the 
 greatest economy. I have not yet procured a horse, and 
 will not until the moment of our departure, when it will 
 be absolutely necessary. On the march two tents are 
 absolutely requisite, which to a subaltern would be very 
 expensive ; two, therefore, generally join, and thus only 
 buy one tent each. Major Douglas has insisted upon my 
 breakfasting in his tent every morning, so that by this plan 
 I have been able to manage with only one tent, without 
 joining with any one else. Of the Churchills I have heard 
 nothing. 
 
 I have just heard that Miss was dying in England, 
 
 and that the marriage having been given up, Lieut. 
 
 had taken his departure from England. The latter part is 
 true, as it is mentioned in a letter from himself. From all 
 accounts of him, I believe, he will prove no desirable addi- 
 tion to the regiment. 
 
 There is every likelihood of an universal war in India. 
 The army against Cabul has set out under the orders of Sir 
 Henry Fane ; and, from the hostilities of the Burmese, it is 
 not at all improbable that the 9th regiment may receive a 
 
40 
 
 counter order to act in their country, as commands have been 
 issued for the taking of Rangoon by our troops, and we are 
 the most disposable corps at present ; however, should we 
 go there, I will instantly write. 
 
 You would, perhaps, like to know the situation of Haze- 
 rabagh ; it is to the north-west of Chinsura, lat. 23 24' 
 north, Ion. 86 east ; it is not down in the map ; a most 
 healthy station. 
 
 November 18th. I have not succeeded in discovering 
 
 anything relative to my uncle, Captain , as no one 
 
 down here knows him, he has been altogether up the 
 country. 
 
 We have just received an order for marching to Hazera- 
 bagh, which has put us all into the highest glee. The 
 regiment starts from Chinsura on the 3rd of December, so 
 that we have little time before us. I send this by the 
 Overland ; the charge of letters has been lessened. I sin- 
 cerely hope to hear a better account of Harriet's health. 
 
 With most affectionate love to sisters and brothers, 
 
 I remain, my dear Father, 
 Your ever most obedient affectionate Son, 
 
 SLATOR GUMMING. 
 
 Chinsura, Nov, 24th, 1838. 
 
 My dear Father An unexpected occurrence which has 
 taken place here, and which is likely to affect my interests, 
 has determined me to write without loss of time. A few 
 days subsequent to the letter of the 14th November, per 
 Overland, which you have no doubt received by this time, 
 a vacancy occurred by the lamented death of Lieutenant 
 French, whom I mentioned in a letter to Helena. I am 
 now senior ensign, and as such, may presume that I shall 
 be promoted to the lieutenancy without purchase, as in 
 almost all casualties of the same kind ; however, that event 
 is not at all certain, for many reasons ; previous to this 
 
41 
 
 vacancy, two or three deaths have taken place in the corps, 
 and consequently promotions without purchase. The 
 authorities, therefore, conceiving that sufficient indul- 
 gences of this kind have already been awarded to the 
 regiment, and not considering my standing in the army 
 sufficient to entitle me to the promotion, may judge it ne- 
 cessary to promote to the vacant lieutenancy an older ensign 
 of some other corps ; this occasionally happens. It is the 
 apprehension of this taking place that has urged me to write, 
 in hopes that you will be able to use your influence at the 
 Horse Guards, to counteract, if possible, any purpose of 
 this nature. I think I have ample cause to fear being 
 passed over, from the circumstance of my service in the 
 army. I was gazetted in July 22nd, 1836, from which 
 time to the present, November 24th, 1838, is comprised 
 just two years and four months a short period certainly. 
 This alone would furnish to them a satisfactory excuse for 
 refusing me. Major Douglas has advised me to write up 
 to Mrs. General Churchill, to secure things with the com- 
 mander-in-chief, Sir H. Fane, which I intend doing imme- 
 diately. I could not forgive myself, if I thought that I 
 lost my promotion from any want of exertion on my own 
 part. 
 
 The shocking death of Lieutenant French was a great 
 affliction to me, and, indeed, I may say to all the regiment. 
 There was not a more amiable man among all my com- 
 panions, and to me he was a great friend. We had antici- 
 pated every little amusement together, both on the march, 
 and at the delightful station to which the regiment is 
 going. We had the same ideas, the same feelings. He 
 sat down to dinner at seven in the evening in health, and 
 was dead at four o'clock, of cholera ; how horribly sudden, 
 the shock was instantaneous. One of the old officers came 
 into my room next morning, weeping, while he was lament- 
 ing his loss, so much was he beloved. He has left a young 
 
42 
 
 wife, daughter to , whom you know, and whom I 
 
 have heard you speak of. He has, however, uniformly 
 behaved unnaturally both to him and her. On the day of 
 their marriage, he did not give his daughter a rag ; and 
 since that event, which took place with the greatest satis- 
 faction on his part, he turned his back upon both, allowing 
 them to struggle on with the poor pittance of a lieutenant, 
 although he had funds from which to afford them assistance. 
 The poor wife is going to live in Wales, with two old 
 ladies, her former friends, on a small pension. I know that 
 this account may be foreign to the subject, and I would 
 have altogether omitted it, but I feel sure, that whatever 
 affects me, however trifling it may be, will always be found 
 of interest to you, and under this conviction I have written 
 throughout. 
 
 I have written this in the greatest haste, not having a 
 moment to lose, as if I send it immediately, it may, per- 
 haps, overtake the Overland, which left Calcutta on the 
 20th of November, in such case you will receive this long 
 before any information can reach the Horse Guards, by 
 ship, and thus have plenty of time to act. We are nearing 
 our time for starting towards Hazerabagh, and, of course, 
 all ready. Remember me with most affectionate love to 
 sisters and brothers. I am, my dearest Father, 
 
 Your most affectionate and dutiful Son, 
 
 J. S. GUMMING. 
 
 P.S. I intend buying a horse at Hazerabagh, as I shall 
 be able to afford the necessary sum from the savings made 
 while in that station a space of three years. 
 
 Chinsura, Nov. 24th, 1838. 
 
 My dear Father On this day, Nov. 24th, I wrote you 
 a letter, per Overland, but thinking it might not reach you 
 in time, or perhaps not at all, I judged it safe to write this 
 
43 
 
 duplicate, which I intend sending off with the greatest 
 possible dispatch. A casualty has taken place in this 
 corps, which gives me as of right (being senior ensign) the 
 promotion to the lieutenancy. Many causes there are, 
 however, which raise doubts in my mind as to my obtain- 
 ing it. Previous to this two or three deaths have occurred, 
 the vacancies caused by these have been filled up without 
 purchase. Lord Hill may think, therefore, that sufficient 
 favour has been shewn to the corps in allowing it to have 
 had the run of so many steps without purchase, particu- 
 larly as in my case the standing in the army of the next 
 person for promotion is of so short a duration. I have only 
 been two years and four months in the army, and he may 
 on that account consider me not to be entitled to the lieu- 
 tenancy. It is for this reason, therefore, that I am so 
 urgent in writing to you, that you may be in time to use 
 your influence in my favor. An occurrence of this kind 
 was so unexpected, that I did not think it necessary to 
 give you notice before. 
 
 I have just written to Mrs. General Churchill to request 
 her to beg her husband to obtain from Sir H. Fane my 
 nomination to the lieutenancy in this country, of which, I 
 think, I am certain the difficulty lies at home. 
 
 On arriving at Hazerabagh I will write and tell all the 
 wonders I see there ; I look forward with much pleasure 
 to the life there ; everybody is so healthy there the air is 
 salubrious. In short, I anticipate everything delightful, 
 perhaps from wishing to escape from Chinsura, and the 
 pestilential vapours of Bengal. Love to Harriet, Helena, 
 and the boys. I am, my dearest Father, 
 
 Your most affectionate Son, 
 
 J. S. GUMMING, 
 Ensign 9th regt. 
 
 P.S. I send this to an agent in Calcutta, who will 
 dispatch it immediately. 
 
44 
 
 Hazerabagh, March 26th, 1839. 
 
 My dearest Harriet A lapse of nearly three or four 
 months, without receiving a line from me, must no doubt 
 be a subject of surprise to you all. My last was dated 
 November, 1838, to my father, since which period I am 
 delighted to say, that I can call Chinsura, detestable 
 Chinsura, no longer my home. 
 
 We have now been four months breathing an atmos- 
 phere more conducive to health, and by far more enliven- 
 ing and cheering to our natures. This is indeed a delightful 
 climate (by comparison of course). The station is inland, 
 on no river, but formed on a sort of table land, situated 
 among ridges of hills, which are seen rising up in the dis- 
 tance on all sides ; it is two thousand feet above the level 
 of the sea, free from all jungles, for miles around, and con- 
 sequently open to every breeze that blows. Oh ! it really 
 infuses a new existence into one ; you cannot conceive with 
 what feelings, almost of ecstacy, one enjoys the bracing air 
 of the mornings and evenings. At those periods it is Eng- 
 land in ^but in name ; ten months in the year are agreeable. 
 The hot winds prevail during May and June, but even then 
 the heat is not insupportable, as in Chinsura; by using 
 tatties a pleasant draught of air is diffused through the 
 house. You know what tatties are from description in 
 books. 
 
 What now follows will perhaps cause a smile, as I may 
 seem to have been paradisaical in my account of this fine 
 country. I have not had, perhaps, much cause for satis- 
 faction or enjoyment since I came here ; but on the other 
 hand, my feelings should not be only those of contentment 
 and patience, but should be strongly endued with grateful, 
 heartfelt, lasting thanks to that Almighty Father, who care- 
 fully watches over us all ; and should I not acknowledge, 
 with gratitude, my sense of that mercy, without which my 
 
45 
 
 existence in this world might ere this have closed for ever ? 
 In short, my dearest Harriet, I have been very ill ; more than 
 a month ago, I was attacked by one of those acute diseases, 
 to which all in this country, without exception, are liable ; 
 fortunately, however, I took remedies in time neverthe- 
 less, in less than a week I was reduced to a skeleton a 
 mere hanging on, of skin and bone. Medicine has at last 
 overcome the virulence of the attack, and I am now, provi- 
 dentially, recovering slowly of course. I am just begin- 
 ning to know the blessing of legs, or rather to anticipate 
 it, for at present I can only manage to crawl to my palkee, 
 in which I am carried about in the evening for an airing, 
 or to my bed at night. And now, my dearest sister, I 
 must really call you to account for your delinquency as to 
 correspondence. I have received no letter from you since 
 February, 1838, now more than twelve months ago; and 
 not a line from the governor, Helena, or William, since 
 last November. Could I but make you aware what anxiety 
 and disappointment I feel, as day follows day without 
 bringing even one solitary letter. I see the smiles of 
 delight rising on the countenances of my companions, as 
 they each depart with some news from their families; 
 while to me every enquiry turns out a blank, and I am 
 doomed to that everlasting word hope, hope, hope. Can 
 you not dispatch a letter now and then, by the Overland, 
 the expense I think is not much greater than the ordinary 
 mode of conveyance ; only conceive, I should be almost 
 one of yourselves ; two months would not elapse without 
 making known to me every occurrence that passes ; all 
 your interests (which are equally mine), all your feelings, 
 thoughts, and wishes, a thing which would serve to bind 
 me so much more closely to you all, cannot, I am sure, be 
 of little importance, particularly in this country, where 
 one is a stranger, thrown an outcast from the world, for 
 
this is out of the world. I left civilization when I deserted 
 the shores of Europe. I look around there is not a soul 
 to whom I am bound by any endearing tie to whom I 
 can look as bound to me, by any claims of kindred or 
 affection. A friend I have, certainly, and he is indeed 
 a friend. I now first learn to experience what conso- 
 lation and true pleasure that word friendship can bestow ; 
 it throws a calm over the feelings, even in one's solitary 
 hours when all the world seems to be a desert to you, 
 each following his own pursuit, regardless of the exist- 
 ence of any fellow-being, being all absorbed in the crea- 
 ture self. 
 
 Do not now let these sentiments impress you with any 
 idea that I am not contented and happy. I have long since 
 determined to endeavour to be satisfied under every circum- 
 stance; and to be prepared to bear with a light heart, 
 whatever changes or chances this roving life of a soldier 
 must necessarily produce. 
 
 Helena tells me you have been ill, too. Surely the cli- 
 mate of our native land must restore you to health, and I 
 shall hail the next letter from you as one bringing a good 
 account ; so write much and often. The minutest occur- 
 rence will prove of interest to me. William has not thought 
 me worthy of a line. Tell him I should like to enter upon 
 a train of argument with him. Of course by this time he 
 is master of any subject. How awfully learned he must 
 look in his black gloomy gown and square head-piece ! I 
 intend to overwhelm him with a long dispatch, but really 
 I am half afraid to make the trial ; but seriously, I have 
 long expected a letter from him. We must not lose' sight 
 of each other, however different our careers may be ; and 
 at his present destination, much must pass under his obser- 
 vation which I am sure would impart gratification to both 
 parties. How delightful it would be if one of the boys 
 
47 
 
 could obtain an ensigncy in the 9th regiment; but I am 
 afraid I am indulging in a vain dream ; still to my partial 
 eye it seems practicable. There is now a greater demand 
 for officers in the service. War is impending on all sides, 
 and here active operations have already commenced. India 
 is almost drained of her troops, which have necessarily 
 been drawn far away across the Indus, and into Candahar. 
 The demand for more regiments from England is urgent, 
 and affairs are becoming so alarming, that the call cannot be 
 much longer disregarded. All these are reasons for pre- 
 suming that the obtaining commissions in the army has 
 now ceased to be a matter of any great difficulty. Besides, 
 Captain Bluntish, the paymaster of this regiment, has just 
 obtained the last vacant ensigncy in this corps (without 
 purchase) ; and he possesses no great interest, and had no 
 claims of long service to recommend him. He succeeded, 
 nevertheless, contrary to the general expectation. Many 
 vacancies are on the eve of taking place in this regiment ; 
 and I anticipate the delight I should feel in taking up the 
 Gazette some day, to behold another Gumming added to its 
 lists. We could live together, and be a mutual support to 
 each other on all occasions. As for a cadetship, I should 
 tremble for any of my brothers coming in that capacity. 
 On arrival in Calcutta, the cadet is thrown loose among a 
 herd of others at Barrackpore for a few months, awaiting 
 his final destination; and it is here that young and inex- 
 perienced, thrown to chance to direct them, they consider 
 themselves entitled to indulge every wish and inclination, 
 without considering the after consequences. Can you 
 believe the fact of a young cadet, now an ensign, being 
 what is called white-washed in Calcutta. I know him inti- 
 mately. He is only eighteen. This is not uncommon 
 among the Company's officers ; and would you believe it, 
 that it is allowed by the higher authorities. An officer in 
 
48 
 
 the Queen's service would be cashiered for such a transac- 
 tion. Barrackpore is the ruin of more than half the young 
 men that enter its precincts. 
 
 I am anxious to hear of affairs at home with you. The 
 information of honorable transactions by a certain party 
 did not much surprize me ; but still it did not for once 
 occur to my mind that they would have dared to proceed 
 to such extremities; but it only serves to shew how ap- 
 pearances will ever deceive, and where interest interferes, 
 how soon the smiles of intimacy can be turned to the frowns 
 of enmity. It seems to be doomed that we and our rela- 
 tions are ever to be at war, with each other. We, however, 
 will hereafter have this consolation, that no blame can be 
 attached to our name ; and it is they alone, that have shewn 
 the grasping disposition, by again exciting the embers of 
 discord, which at my departure from Europe, appeared to 
 have been extinguished. However, they may yet learn to 
 repent their attempts to injure us. I forgot to tell you 
 that three officers of this corps have lately gone to England 
 reported unfit for service. This leaves three vacancies to 
 be filled up. Would not this be a good opportunity for 
 making an effort ? Oh, if you were here, how happy we 
 might be ! Do you know I am afraid I shall become quite 
 shy. of the fair sex, so little do I see of that portion of the 
 world. Our own ladies I see constantly ; but then they are 
 old faces, and few. The only young lady of the regiment 
 has just been snatched from us by our gallant commander, 
 Major Taylor a bride of sixteen to a respectable corporeal 
 old gentleman of nearly fifty. Is not this a reproach to all 
 us young aspirants to that glory ? The happy pair, shewed 
 their recollection of me the day after the knot was tied, in 
 the shape of a large piece of cake, which, however, like 
 Tantalus, I could only gaze at, as I must avoid all good 
 things for some time to come. He has been very attentive, 
 
49 
 
 coming in often to visit me, during my illness ; and he is a 
 very good-natured man, though he fancies himself still in 
 the vigour of youth. 
 
 I long to hear something of you all, and particularly of 
 yourself. How well our feelings can at last agree upon 
 one subject, that of health: none can truly know its bles- 
 sings but that person who has first experienced the loss of 
 it. I hope and trust that ere the receipt of this, you 
 will have no need of comfort, in that respect. I can 
 fancy the happy fire-side evenings you have passed, while 
 perhaps you now and then think and talk of the absent 
 one a stranger far away in a foreign land. You all are 
 ever in my thoughts ; and I often think, shall I ever behold 
 you again. However, that your prospects now are likely 
 to take a new form, is very satisfactory. I hope to hear 
 that William and Robert are at college, and exerting 
 themselves. 
 
 Remember me affectionately to all the boys. Love to 
 Helena and the governor, and believe me, dearest Harriet, 
 with earnest anxiety for your health and happiness, 
 Your ever affectionate brother, 
 
 JAMES SLATOR GUMMING. 
 
 Hazerabagh, March 30th, 1839. 
 
 My dear Father I deem it of the utmost importance 
 to pen you this hasty note, in order to inform you of some 
 disagreeable news which has only just this moment reached 
 me, and upon which I shall anxiously await your instruc- 
 tions. The following has just appeared in the Calcutta 
 newspaper, The Englishman : 
 
 " Mr. Longwille, clerk lawyer, has made a motion in the 
 Court of Calcutta, for authority to authorize Lieut, and 
 Adjutant Brownrig, of the 9th regiment, at Hazerabagh, to 
 act as Commissioner to swear in Major Bird, the Deputy- 
 Commissary-General there, for the purpose of serving 
 
50 
 
 J. S. Gumming with a subpoena, obliging him to appear at 
 the Court of Rolls in Dublin, to answer as respondent in 
 the case of ' Walsh versus Slator.' " 
 
 This is the sum total of the affair as yet it only came 
 to my ears half an hour ago. The Overland starts in an 
 hour, and I take this hurried opportunity of letting you 
 know. I am quite in the dark what to do. No one here 
 is conversant in law affairs, and consequently no one to 
 look to for advice. However, I won't move until I hear 
 from you. 
 
 I know nothing more of the affair than the above. I 
 cannot see their object in requiring my presence in Europe. 
 I have no funds for the passage, and where to get them I 
 know not. 
 
 The Overland is going, and I must finish with this, 
 remaining your very affectionate and dutiful Son, 
 
 JAMES SLATOR GUMMING. 
 
 P. S. I shall anxionsly await an answer by the next 
 Overland. I do not think they can force me to go, even 
 by serving me with a subpoena ; but that I must learn. In 
 spite of everything except injury to myself, I am deter- 
 mined to disregard all subpoenas, until I hear from you. 
 Eight o'clock in the evening. 
 
 Hazerabagh, April 1st, 1839. 
 
 My dearest Helena Here I am, soaring nearly two 
 thousand miles above the great city of palaces, with not a 
 sigh at the change ; but on the contrary, heartily congratu- 
 lating myself that I have so early escaped the scorched plains 
 of Bengal, while the poor mortals whose lot it is to be doomed 
 to remain there, are undergoing the delightful process of 
 being baked and shrivelled to skeletons, in its suffocating 
 atmosphere. I am as fresh and lively as balmy breezes and 
 a cool air can render one. A person long held in durance 
 doubly feels, the delight, of liberty when set free, and such 
 
51 
 
 is my case at present. I have just come in from taking my 
 morning airing in my palkee (not being able to take any 
 other exercise as yet) ; and so beneficial an effect has the 
 same on the spirits, that I almost feel, as if by magic, 
 restored to my former strength. That happiness I fear 
 will not arrive to me for some time to come. But India is 
 an admirable school both for trying and teaching patience. 
 It soon dissipates all romantic ideas, and exhibits reality in 
 its truest colours. It makes men the most domestic crea- 
 tures in the world, cures effectually high-flown notions, 
 and ends in a short period, by making the individual 
 strangely blind and dull to the concerns and interests of all 
 around him, but astonishingly quick and interested in that 
 little body self. What descriptions writers have given 
 of what they are pleased to style the rich plains of Hin- 
 dostan the splendid palaces delightful groves of fruit 
 oriental manners the artless and innocent nation. All 
 this makes a good impression on paper ; it serves to fill a 
 volume, and does more credit to the imagination of the 
 author, than either to his accuracy or truth. If ever India 
 existed as stated above, it passed as a dream. Imagination 
 has done wonders for this country. Turn your eyes in what- 
 ever direction, every object that presents itself is calculated 
 to raise feelings of pity and commiseration ; while there is 
 nothing worthy of admiration, or even surprise, except 
 perhaps in the peculiar notions and ways of the inhabitants 
 (but that is the only exception) ; the peculiarities of their 
 castes, the steady adherence with which they obey the rules 
 laid down by those castes, however their interests may 
 prompt them to act otherwise. This, however, is not the 
 effect of any good principles, innate in them; but it is 
 inculcated from infancy, handed down from parent to child, 
 from posterity to posterity ; and it will cost much exertion 
 to eradicate the evil effects which these castes are daily 
 
 E 2 
 
52 
 
 producing. These people are the most abject, most help- 
 less, and most degraded of the human species. 
 
 This station is about a mile and a half in extent, over 
 which the Bungaloes are scattered in all directions at 
 various distances from each other. They have each large 
 compounds attached, which in England would be considered 
 valuable property, many consisting of five, six, and seven 
 acres of good land. Most have gardens also. Nothing 
 indeed can give you a juster idea of the climate than the 
 fact that all kinds of vegetables grow to perfection here, 
 numerous fruit-trees flourish ; in short, this place possesses 
 little of an Indian aspect. I look forward with pleasure to 
 the bright prospects that are before us, and sincerely hope 
 it may be our lot to remain here the next four years. I 
 have lost all ambition of visiting the upper stations, the 
 daily descriptions of most of them are so appalling. How- 
 ever, the certainty of one year is ensured to us ; and even 
 then, after that period, the urgency of war would be the only 
 plea for our removal. But we are too distant from the 
 scene of action to make that likely. Our march from 
 Chinsura made a pleasant change in the monotony of our 
 existence. I was determined to act the soldier at once by 
 walking the whole way a distance of two hundred miles. 
 I was the only one of the officers that did so they all had 
 horses ; but as I thought, that having two good legs of my 
 own, it would be a shame not to make use of them, 1 was 
 resolved not to buy a horse, particularly as my expenses 
 for the journey had already been very heavy. At first it 
 was rather fatiguing ; but the constant excitement of the 
 scene around, the bustle of the camp, the songs of the 
 soldiery, and the novelty of a strange country, soon de- 
 tached me from all thought of myself. 
 
 The country presented nothing of interest, until we 
 ascended among the hills, and even there was only a spot 
 
53 
 
 here and there worthy of notice. It was here that our 
 troubles began. I was frequently ordered behind with a 
 detachment to assist the baggage over deep mullahs (or 
 small rocky streams, which generally came suddenly down 
 from the road into deep hollows, leaving each side so steep 
 that it was with the greatest risk they could be got over) ; 
 and thus, under a hot burning sun, with no protection for 
 the head, was, I assure you, a most trying and arduous 
 task ; however, it was my duty, and we all had our share of 
 the toil. Can you fancy with what zeal I must have en- 
 joyed my repast, in spite of the sun above, sitting on the 
 last bit of grass that was near, while the soldiers were scat- 
 tered around, accommodating themselves in like manner? 
 Oh! it was so romantic life in the East put a human 
 creature in an oven, and then tell him its romance ! I an- 
 ticipated meeting something to admire every step that I 
 advanced into the interior ; some old ruins of former splen- 
 dor, relics of Hindoo superstition, or at least some indi- 
 cations of what had been the pomp and state of its 
 Mahometan rulers, but not a vestige remained; time 
 had swept all away, not leaving us a conjecture, what the 
 country once was. I was very much disappointed in my 
 expectations ; but you must be quite tired of all this dry 
 uninteresting stuff, though I know you will read it if only 
 because I wrote it. Nothing of any interest takes place 
 here. We are inhabiting on a basis in a desert, with this 
 exception that there, all around is sand ; here, all jungles ; 
 there is no station within two hundred miles of us, but, 
 notwithstanding, I am delighted with our lot. The big 
 wigs are very busy in the upper provinces. I hear little of 
 the Churchills : he has been ordered to Bombay, to join 
 Sir Henry Fane, who has made that place his head quarters, 
 
 as being nearer the scene of action. Mrs. C and 
 
 M remain still at Simla ; Mrs. Michel is, ere this, 
 
 blessed with a spun gregis, or, in other words, has now 
 
54 
 
 menced the duties of a mother: perhaps, however, this is 
 old information to you. In my last, I mentioned having 
 written to Mrs. Churchill about the lieutenantcy. I re- 
 ceived an answer in less than a month, in which she 
 informed me my wishes had been complied with. This 
 assurance was confirmed in a short time, by my name 
 appearing in general orders, as promoted to the vacancy. 
 She, moreover, added, that should I at any time stand in 
 need of assistance, / must not hesitate to make use of her 
 influence and interest. This is very kind, but at present 
 nothing seems to warrant a likelihood of my applying to 
 her ; to be sure some nice little appointment would be very 
 acceptable aid-de-camp, Sec. &c. &c. I have some am- 
 bition of that sort. She also says that Mrs. M had 
 
 received a letter from you : and now, my dear Helena, I 
 must load you with reproaches. Your letters are not half 
 long enough ; I always peruse them with regret, and to 
 console myself, am forced to commence and read them over 
 again. Every trifle is of interest, but you could impart 
 more than trifles if you chose. Oh ! pen that rich store- 
 house, and bestow on me some of its gifts. You might 
 give me some advice, much information; and pray don't 
 nourish the thought that I would cast a sneer upon your 
 opinions. You know I have too high a regard for your 
 sentiments ; besides, I have not adopted the vulgar notion 
 of young men, that after once entering the world, it 
 is below them to allow or submit to a sister's judgment. 
 Give me your opinion and thoughts upon any subject that 
 may occur to you, I shall be too delighted to peruse them. 
 Your present letters are rather scanty : now, I should like 
 to receive a large sheet of foolscap, crossed and re-crossed, 
 and I know you can furnish materials sufficient. What 
 long columns I have noticed lying in your desk, addressed 
 to Louisa Churchill, and surely I may hope for a share. 
 What acquaintances have you discovered in your para- 
 
55 
 
 dise ? Have you come in contact with the Kelleys, or do 
 not they come within the circle inexceptionables ? By 
 the by, what are you about? Methinks that old gentle- 
 man Time is making fast strides towards forcing that never 
 to be recalled word passee upon you know whom; but 
 really it is too bad ; you must begin and set your cap as 
 soon as possible. I am looking about me, but alas ! alas ! 
 shrivelled old faces appal me on all sides, and I think the 
 young bachelor out is likely to return an old bachelor home. 
 Well, Helena, we will keep house together a respectable 
 old pair. A slight liver complaint on my side, and a little 
 touch or so of rheumatism on yours, will now and then 
 serve to ruffle the calm of our existence. Now, does not 
 this make you fancy yourself an old lady already ? I at 
 least am doubtful whether I am not beginning to imbibe 
 old men's notions. A young man may fancy himself old 
 with as much justice, as the old fellow persuades himself 
 that he is young. I grant it seldom happens; the one, 
 however, is just as absurd and ridiculous as the other. I 
 am anxious to know how things are going on ; I anticipate 
 every success, though I am not sanguine. You ask me 
 
 about my companion, Mr. N ; he is at some distant 
 
 station I forget. The last accounts of him were, that he 
 had made himself so disagreeable that he was generally dis- 
 liked, and some of his brother officers would not speak to 
 him. How deplorable in the outset of his career ; however, 
 I suppose experience will teach him to alter his conduct 
 and demeanor, as, otherwise, he will lead a life of misery. 
 If you recollect, I found fault with him on board ship ; we 
 were, notwithstanding, very cordial afterwards, and I should 
 
 like to see him. H is gone long ago ; the less said of 
 
 him the better. By his misconduct his prospects in life have 
 been retarded. Perhaps, for years, you see I have only lost 
 one step, and that does not go in the regiment, so that I 
 
56 
 
 still hold my place in the list. The ensign under me was 
 for purchase, but his money was not lodged until four days 
 after the Gazette appeared. I am alluding to the pro- 
 motion of young Shelton from the 44th to this corps. I 
 expect a letter daily; it is now five months since I have 
 heard from you this is really tantalizing. Could you 
 manage to send me a small selection of books ? but I sup- 
 pose not it would be so great a treat ; don 't say a word 
 ahout it I pray. I must leave off now, as one of the 
 civilians here will call soon to take me out in his buggy, for 
 which I have to prepare : he is a very nice young man, an 
 engineer. We are daily becoming more intimate. I have 
 written all this in a dark room, so you must take it as you 
 now see it. 
 
 We are in daily expectation of the Overland Mail it is 
 a subject of great interest with all of us. " What news ! 
 what news ! " is the general exclamation ; and then com- 
 mence the conjectures and arguments upon events in En- 
 gland, which serves to create a ferment for about a week, 
 when all again subsides into monotony. 
 
 I never received an answer from Aunt Ellen, though she 
 was very urgent with me to correspond with her. I think 
 I will write again, and remind her not to forget me in her 
 will a small legacy would be acceptable. I will shortly 
 write a long letter to William and Robert ; Charles should 
 inform me whether he intends to come and join me in the 
 career of arms : I have a room reserved for him, as he 
 must live with me. As the circle lessens, and each departs 
 to fulfil his destiny, the thought rises to my mind " shall 
 we ever meet again round the family board?" What a 
 moment of happiness and delight that would be. I look 
 forward to it with hope ; in the meantime I shall satisfy 
 myself with hearing from time to time of your welfare and 
 prosperity ; and my only prayer now is, that you will write 
 
57 
 
 often. My love and affectionate remembrance to all, hoping 
 that your vexations in another quarter have come to a close, 
 and are all again smooth. I finish, remaining for ever, my 
 dearest Sister, Your affectionate Brother, 
 
 JAMES SLATOR GUMMING. 
 
 Hazerabagh, April 12th, 1839. 
 
 My dear Father I delayed writing to you immediately 
 after the despatch of my note, Overland, because I was 
 anxious to ascertain the result of the application made in 
 the Court of Calcutta with respect to the subpoena, and 
 also to await the arrival in this place of the Overland from 
 England, in expectation of some communication from you 
 by that route. However, I have been disappointed the 
 more so as I have received no account by any chance since 
 November, 1838. The application for the subpoena has 
 been refused, as in the opinion of the judges the power of 
 granting it is beyond their jurisdiction ; this appeared in 
 the papers some days after the first motion, the judges 
 having referred the case to more mature consideration, and 
 the above was the result ; since then I have heard nothing 
 further, so I suppose they (whoever they are) have let their 
 project drop. This alarm created some little sensation 
 here, and next day, after its appearance in the papers, I 
 had a most unaccountable augmentation of visitors. I have 
 been very ill, but am recovering as fast as can be expected, 
 and hope soon to be able to perform my regimental duties 
 as heretofore. This is a delightful spot in contrast with 
 other places in this country ; even at the present season, 
 which is the hottest in the year, the effects on the spirits 
 and system is by no means of that enervating kind which 
 is so much felt every where else in the open air ; however, 
 it is very oppressive, from the prevailing hot wind, but as 
 no one goes out here except upon urgent duty, the effect 
 
58 
 
 of the wind is obviated by wet talleis fastened on the win- 
 dows and doors ; there is one now behind me, which 
 affords a delightful cool air. After all, however, it makes 
 me think of home with feelings of regret, which cannot 
 always be stifled ; indeed, my thoughts are always turned 
 to that quarter individually I am very comfortable and 
 happy here. The 6sprit du corps is beginning to glimmer ; 
 the bad spirits are gradually sneaking into their shells, as 
 they are not encouraged in their mal-practices ; and the 
 regiment is now assuming a reputable position. We are 
 likely to remain here for three or four years ; no one, how- 
 ever, can presume upon this as a certainty, considering the 
 aspect of affairs around. War is the universal topic, and 
 perhaps the steep crags and wild passes of Nepaul may 
 soon be our destination. Operations in that quarter are 
 likely to be most arduous, both from the warlike disposi- 
 tion of the inhabitants, and the actual advantages of the 
 country itself. But what can oppose British troops, headed 
 by British officers ? The opinion as to the efficiency of 
 Sepoy troops against sturdy enemies (not such as the con- 
 temptible Hindoos), seems to be unfavourable among the 
 Queen's officers, and among many companys' officers too. 
 However, this subject gives rise to many disputes ; from 
 my short experience of them I can only say, I congratulate 
 myself that I am not ever likely to be in a situation to call for 
 a test of their qualities as soldiers. The Company's officers 
 are very jealous of the Queen's officers having staff 
 appointments, or even anything with the name of appoint- 
 ments, they fancy such are exclusively their own right. 
 The English officer has quite as just a claim he remains 
 at least fourteen or twenty years in India (a period suffi- 
 cient to break the strongest constitution), at the end of 
 which time he returns a stranger, an outcast to his home, 
 with the paltry pittance of half-pay, as a reward for all his 
 services ; at the same time returns the Company's officer, 
 
59 
 
 wallowing in wealth (acquisitions from staff appointments), 
 to smooth down the evening of his life in a comfortable and 
 easy retirement. How is the one the more deserving than 
 the other ? 
 
 The society of this place is very limited ourselves and 
 a few civilians comprise the whole. At present my illness 
 prevents my improving my acquaintance with the latter ; 
 one of them kindly drives me in his buggy every evening. 
 
 B arrived here more than a month ago, and I was only 
 
 introduced to him yesterday ; however, I do not think he 
 will ever be more than a mere acquaintance of mine. I do 
 not like his manner and conversation. His marriage is quite 
 broken off. When he left England Miss J was stay- 
 ing in his father's house, he having refused to have anything 
 to do with her; if this is the case, he has behaved in 
 a manner most unfeeling. She came home expressly 
 to marry him, and he has now gone off and deserted 
 her. But from all accounts she has had a very fortunate 
 escape. 
 
 I have not again been honored by any communication 
 
 from L , or from any of our kind affectionate relations. 
 
 I was not able to discover anything relating to Mr. T . 
 
 I suppose you know he has set up for himself in a mer- 
 cantile line in London. There is a placard on our mess 
 table, sent by him, and to the purport, that he " will be 
 happy to supply the regiment and inhabitants of the station 
 with hermetically sealed provisions from England beef, 
 hams, salmon, carrots, &c. &c. cheaper and better than any 
 one else." Of course I do not own him as a relation. His 
 wife left India with him. I believe he was a constant con- 
 tributor to the newspapers here, and still acts as English 
 correspondent to one of them. He is an active, intelligent, 
 stirring man, and very likely to succeed in his present 
 speculation. Major Douglas was well acquainted with him 
 in former days, when he was a dashing extravagant fellow. 
 
60 
 
 We are all monotony here. The last Overland brought 
 no news, and we now anxiously await the next one, as it 
 will bring us accounts of a most important period the trans- 
 actions in Parliament. I am become a zealous politician 
 quite a Conservative. Our ears are astounded by the 
 reports of the insidious progress which the Catholics are 
 now openly making even in England, and of the inhuman 
 combinations they entered into for the destruction of all 
 that is hostile to their projects. What is to become of 
 Ireland, and its faithful ministers the Protestant clergy ? 
 
 We have received an account of Lord Norbury's murder. 
 If you could, without incurring any expense, send out a 
 newspaper now and then, it would be most acceptable. 
 The Overland would be the best conveyance for news- 
 papers, as it is not so expensive as per ship. 
 
 Our troops across the Indus have met with great diffi- 
 culties; they are almost starving, their cattle are dying, 
 and parties of the enemies daily carry off their camels, so 
 that their state at present is not enviable. The officers 
 are deeply involved in debt, when it was absolutely out of 
 their power to prevent it. Government will not come 
 forward and assist them, which it ought, if actuated by no 
 other motives than those which duty would suggest. Their 
 officers are discontented, and naturally so. There will 
 shortly be a grand victory ; I think we are luckly in escap- 
 ing service under such disadvantages. 
 
 Now would be a good opportunity for obtaining a com- 
 mission for one of the boys, if it could be in any way 
 managed. There is not the same difficulty, and it certainly 
 would be pleasant having two brothers in the same regi- 
 ment, which can always be managed, supposing a commis- 
 sion was obtained in any other. 
 
 I am anxious to hear what are your future plans. I 
 suppose you will rusticate in the country. How soon, and 
 how truly have been verified your often-expressed remarks, 
 
61 
 
 of what would be the conduct of two or three of our loving 
 relations, when the time for displaying their actions arrived. 
 I hope, however, that they will find themselves deceived in 
 their calculations of defrauding us. There is something so 
 unnatural in relatives, so nearly allied, goading each other 
 on to quarrel and fight, where only that one party is actuated 
 by sordid interest ; everything might be arranged peaceably 
 and to the satisfaction of all. How just was your opinion 
 of them. I have written to William, under the idea that 
 he is at college, Helena having mentioned so in her letter 
 of October, 1838. 
 
 I shall be delighted to hear that you are all happy and 
 comfortable in old Magheracloone, and likely to remain. 
 Love to sisters and brothers. 
 
 Believe me, my dearest Father, 
 
 Your most affectionate and dutiful Son, 
 JAMES SLATOR GUMMING. 
 
 Hazerabagh, May 14th, 1839. 
 
 My dearest Helena While penning this I am held in a 
 state of suspense and doubt as to what is to be my course 
 of action for at least two or three months after this date. I 
 yesterday learned that the attornies of Walsh and Co. have 
 not given up their design of subpcening me, if possible. 
 They failed in their application to the Court of Calcutta, 
 but it now appears that they intend acting on their own 
 authority, as subsequently they wrote to Captain Smith, of 
 this regiment, to induce him to serve me with the subpoena. 
 He, however, sent Major Douglas to me, in order first to 
 be made acquainted with my wishes on the subject. I 
 intimated my disapproval, and he has consequently declined 
 acting. They are, however, determined to serve me with 
 it ; as to have effect, it must be in my hands before the 
 
9th of May ; so much for their side of the question. On 
 the other hand, I strongly suspect their mode of proceed- 
 ing is altogether illegal. I forgot to mention that Major 
 Douglas procured two papers from Captain Smith, and 
 took a copy of each, which are now in my possession ; they 
 consist of prayer of bill and order, of Walsh and others. 
 The contents of the first you, of course, are acquainted 
 with ; second is an order obtained from the Master of the 
 Rolls, in Dublin, to oblige us, viz. Mrs. Fagan, Mr. and 
 Mrs. Franco, and myself, to appear in Dublin by October 
 next, to answer as defendants. I am, therefore, as yet, in 
 doubt how to act. 
 
 Major Douglas, however, has written to a friend of his, 
 a lawyer in Calcutta, for advice, when I shall be able to 
 see my way more clearly ; at present my idea is, that I 
 should set their proceedings at defiance the fact of mino- 
 rity, and having a guardian in my father at home, would, I 
 think, justify me in so doing. However, as I know that 
 want of experience precludes my daring to form any judg- 
 ment in such matters, I must spend my time in conjecturing. 
 
 And now, my dear Helena, will you believe that the 
 very last letter received from you is dated the same day 
 and month as this that I am now writing one long year 
 and only one letter, ought I not to feel anxious. I am 
 often tempted to tax you with neglect, but that cannot be, 
 and I as often reassure myself by attributing the detention 
 of letters to the mishaps of a long sea voyage. Hope, 
 however, carries me on from day to day, until though long 
 deferred, it finally fulfils the expectation of its dependent. 
 I console myself, therefore, with a certainty of hearing 
 from you, however distant that certainty may prove. The 
 death of grandmama has excited a blaze that may involve 
 in ruin the little fortunes of more than one individual, 
 fanned, as it will certainly be, by the exertions of that 
 great family agitator, L. H. T s, and his able pupil 
 
63 
 
 and son. The Walshes under such tuition are quite alive 
 to their own interests, as I see that in their petition before 
 the Court they speculate that the money arising from the 
 sale of the N property, is to be burdened with the whole 
 
 costs of the suit. I see also that Mrs. E. W considers 
 
 herself entitled to Caroline's portion, to yours and Har- 
 riet's detriment. I earnestly hope, for your sakes, that their 
 purposes may prove unsuccessful ; but I greatly fear that 
 the result of all these disputes will be, the bestowal of a 
 shell to each disputant, while the oyster falls to the share 
 of the wily go between. However, in this case there is no 
 help for it, we are to become the victims per force aggres- 
 sion calls for defence, though entailing a large amount of 
 loss ; and the chance of preserving a little, by activity is 
 preferable to losing the whole by inactivity. 
 
 As I sit looking out from my room on the scene around, 
 I fancy the contrast it must bear to that of sweet Maghera- 
 cloone ; at the same season, there, now all is in bloom ; 
 nature appears in greatest loveliness every animated crea- 
 ture seems with ecstacy to be enjoying its short-lived 
 existence, and all is happiness and joy around. Here 
 nature is blighted and parched ; languor and exhaustion 
 reigns on all sides, and life seems for ever prostrated under 
 the prevailing influence of that tyrant, Sol ; however, he 
 will soon have run his course of distinction, and the country 
 will again be clothed in its former cheerful and pleasing 
 aspect. The present year will prove a momentous period 
 to you and as it has begun in doubt and annoyance, may 
 it close with comfort and satisfaction. 
 
 With me there is no local occurrence likely to affect. 
 I, like my companions, must be contented to jog on 
 quietly ; and should I ever feel uneasy, it is only when my 
 thoughts turn towards your present difficulties. I also 
 could fill pages with questions, were I sure of answers to 
 all of them. You make no mention of friends in London, 
 
64 
 
 but I suppose the probability of never seeing them again, 
 has driven the recollection of them from your mind. Of 
 your friend in this country I have latterly heard nothing ; 
 she is still at Simla ; her father is at Bombay with 
 General Fane. Of Mrs. F. Francos, &c. &c. I know 
 nothing. One of George Thomas's children died a few 
 days ago at Sangor but this is no interest to you. The mo- 
 notony of our situation here never relaxes. We have had 
 
 Lieutenant B here some time ; his marriage with Miss 
 
 J has been broken off; and since his arrival in Cal- 
 cutta he engaged himself to a Miss M , daughter to 
 
 some gentleman of that name, and the match was to have 
 taken place in the ensuing month. A few days ago, how- 
 ever, a letter informed him of her unexpected death ; so 
 that he is thus again released from what he is perhaps 
 destined never to consummate ; enough of him. I would 
 not have said so much of him, only that I knew you were 
 
 interested for Miss J . I must not omit to give you 
 
 some intelligence which has just reached us, and which 
 may change our destinies. 
 
 The death of the great chief, Rungeet Sing this occur- 
 rence may entail a succession of difficulties upon our 
 Governor-General; additional troops will be required to 
 march against and take possession of Oude and Lahore. 
 It is an immense extent of country, the numerous chiefs 
 of which, restrained in subjection by the power and iron 
 rule of Rungeet, have only been awaiting the favorable 
 moment of his death to seek in rebellion their own aggran- 
 disement. In short, there will be a general conflagration 
 what the result will be it is difficult to foresee. The pre- 
 sent resources of John Company are certainly not adequate 
 to the coming crisis. However, things are not so bad as in 
 Lord Clive's time, and there are still the same noble hearts, 
 the same calm endurance, and the same intrepidity as 
 existed in his difficulties. 
 
When I contemplate the nature of this country, my 
 astonishment at victories achieved over armies of fifty and 
 sixty thousand men, by small bodies of four and five thou- 
 sand, begins to lessen ; however lapse of years have made 
 them wiser, and conquest now may prove more difficult. 
 
 I long to know what you have been doing all this time ; 
 where stationed where wandering. By the bye, you are 
 of age your own mistress a fruitless attainment. How- 
 ever, I expected to hear that you had lost, what other 
 young ladies contrive to lose, and regain at least two or 
 three times in the space of time I mean your heart. I 
 too have no dignified sister in the family to whom I must 
 look with awe and respect. I think I will throw myself 
 away in sheer vexation. I contrive to be as comfortable 
 and happy as a determination to be so can make one ; and 
 the only diminution of this feeling is caused by the being 
 in entire ignorance of the situation of those who must 
 always exert an influence over my happiness and enjoy- 
 ments. Write me long letters ; never mind about gene- 
 ralities. Give me all the minutiae of your life. It is only 
 by pondering on those that I can actually feel myself 
 among you, and thus, for a time, escape from the thought 
 that it may be long, very long, before I shall be really 
 present with you ; indeed, that long may prove never. I 
 expect a letter from the governor by the next Overland, 
 which will arrive here about the beginning of June. Of 
 course it cannot be otherwise than all I wish. 
 
 Have you nothing to tell about L ? I have received 
 
 no more letters from him. I hope he is getting on well. 
 I have not entirely given up the hope of seeing one of the 
 boys out here : the time of provision is now at hand, 
 as they are fast progressing towards manhood. I anxiously 
 expect a letter from Harriet. I have nothing of interest 
 to communicate at present. We live a sort of prison life, 
 but in a short time the rains set in, when we shall throw 
 
 F 
 
66 
 
 open doors and windows, and enjoy a little more freedom 
 of action. Could you but transport yourself here for one 
 moment, you would be overwhelmed with astonishment at 
 the habits and manners of this country, so different from 
 your own. However, I must bid you adieu, with my best 
 love to Harriet, the governor, and the boys. 
 Believe me, my dearest Helena, 
 
 Your ever most affectionate Brother, 
 
 JAMES SLATOR GUMMING. 
 
 MISCELLANEOUS SCRAPS. 
 
 Not to feel misfortunes is not the part of a mortal ; but 
 not to bear them is unbecoming a man. Friends are all 
 very true, when nothing is required of them beyond friend- 
 ship ; but when you come to rely on them they bend and 
 totter, and ill brook supporting you. 
 
 I never regarded the character of a mere linguist with 
 any admiration. Butler has hit it off with great spirit. 
 He that has many languages to express his thoughts, and 
 has none worth expressing, he compares to one that can 
 write all hands, but never the better sense; or that can 
 cast any sum of money, but has none. 
 
 Correct opinions, well established on any subject, are 
 the best preservatives against the seductions of error. He 
 only is rich in friends, who calculates them by their worth, 
 and not by their number. 
 
 Well arranged time is the surest mark of a well ar- 
 ranged mind. 
 
 THE RULE OF ACTION. 
 
 In silence mind what ills deform thy mind, 
 But all thy good impart to all thy kind. 
 
 THE WORTH OF LIFE. 
 
 A happy lot must sure be his 
 The lord, not slave of things ; 
 
 Who values life by what it is, 
 And not by what it brings. 
 
67 
 
 What you have once wisely proposed, stick to as a law 
 not to be violated, without guilt, and mind not what 
 others say of you. 
 
 Fix your character, and keep to it, whether alone or in 
 company. 
 
 Remember it is not he who reviles and assaults you that 
 injures you, but your thinking that he has injured you. 
 
 Things themselves cannot affect the mind, for they have 
 no entrance into it to turn and move it; it is the mind 
 alone that turns and moves itself. 
 
 It is an eminent piece of humanity, and a manifest token 
 of a nature truly generous, to put up with the affronts of 
 an enemy, at a time when you have a fair opportunity to 
 revenge. 
 
 The rights of states, applicable to every case of contest 
 with foreign powers, are created and limited by the neces- 
 sity of preserving the public safety ; this necessity is the 
 foundation of the reciprocal claims of all nations, to expla- 
 nations of suspicions, or ambiguous conduct ; to reparation 
 for injuries done, and security against injuries intended. 
 In any of these cases, when just satisfaction has been de- 
 nied, or from the evident nature of circumstances cannot 
 otherwise be obtained, it is the undoubted right of the in- 
 jured party to resort to arms for the vindication of the 
 public safety; and in such a conjuncture the right of the 
 state becomes the duty of the Government, unless some 
 material consideration of the public interest should forbid 
 the attempt, 
 
 Imagination is the power by which passion at its height, 
 shakes and overthrows the spirit ; but it is the organ also 
 by which feeling carries over the gentlest influences upon 
 the intellectual mind, and diffuses itself through all the 
 finest channels of thought, over the whole complicated and 
 united being. 
 
 That all men have weak points in their character, and 
 
68 
 
 that those weak points will lead them sometimes to act in 
 opposition to the impulses of their higher qualities, there 
 can be no doubt. 
 
 Pride, which has been said to save man and woman too 
 from falling, has a stronger influence on the mind when it 
 embraces the cause of passion, and seldom fails to render 
 it victorious over conscience and reason. 
 
 i. 
 
 Farewell to wild romance, 
 "With all its magic train ; 
 
 For broken broken is the trance 
 I may not have again. 
 
 ii. 
 Oh ! 'twas a dazzling dream, 
 
 So bright, it would not last ! 
 It merged into that rapid stream, 
 
 Which bears away the past. 
 
 in. 
 I wish not to recall, 
 
 Even were it in my power, 
 That cabalistic festival 
 
 Which maddened every hour. 
 
 IV. 
 
 Answer spectral romance ! 
 
 What hast thou done for me ? 
 Thy recollections but enhance 
 
 Thy bitter mockery. 
 
 v. 
 ' Twas a malignant star, 
 
 Which glittering high o'er head, 
 A pallid and unearthly glare 
 
 On life's dim picture shed ! 
 
69 
 
 VI. 
 
 So, guided by the light, 
 
 Delusively that shone 
 Thro' realms of dreariest, blackest night, 
 
 I wandered darkly on. 
 
 VII. 
 
 Of happiness in search, 
 
 With nought to show the way ; 
 
 Till truth upreared her naming torch, 
 And turned the night to day. 
 
 VIII. 
 
 In accents soft and mild, 
 
 She thus addressed mine ear 
 Oh ! cease thine efforts wild, 
 
 To seek enjoyments here. 
 
 IX. 
 
 'Tis searching after gold, 
 
 And grasping useless ore, 
 An apple ruddy to behold, 
 
 With ashes at the core. 
 
 x. 
 Oh! 'tis a brilliant bubble, 
 
 Men covet to possess ; 
 Which, when attained with toil and trouble, 
 
 Is found but emptiness ! 
 
 XI. 
 
 Then, why thus struggle on, 
 
 To waste thy fleeting breath ? 
 Ah ! credit me, deluded one ! 
 
 There 's no romance in death ! 
 
 XII. 
 
 There 's no romance beyond 
 
 The shadowy bounds of time ; 
 For in eternity is found 
 
 Reality sublime ! 
 
 Composed by a person at the age of sixteen. 
 
70 
 
 To shew to hide, to seem what we are not, 
 Some willing feigners, some constrained by lot ; 
 (For who would combat naked needs must fail, 
 Where others sheath in visor and in mail). 
 Lo here of half the virtues which we count, 
 The mighty secret and the true amount ; 
 And feign they might from my poor comment free, 
 Myself to criticise enough for me. 
 So each snug nestled in his borrowed skin, 
 Would cease to ball forth praise with sturdy din ; 
 But when false claims, not timorous to discuss, 
 All clamour forth for models look on us ; 
 More silent, since no longer I may nurse, 
 And indignation vents the honest verse. 
 June 22nd, 1839. 
 
 And if we do but watch the hour, 
 There never yet was human power, 
 That can resist, if unforgiven, 
 The patient search and vigil long, 
 Of him who treasures up a wrong. 
 
 June 23rd, 1839. The surest way to try the merits of 
 any disputed notion is, to trace down the consequences such 
 a notion has produced, and compare them with the spirit of 
 Christianity; 'tis the short and decisive rule which our 
 SAVIOUR has left us for these and such like cases, and it is 
 worth a thousand arguments. " By their fruits ye shall 
 know them.'* 
 
 June 29th, 1839, Saturday. 
 
 Take of some bitter tree a shoot, 
 In Eden's gardens plant the root ; 
 Let waters from the eternal spring, 
 Amidst the boughs their incense fling ; 
 Tho' bathed and showered with honey's dew, 
 Its native baseness springs to view ; 
 After long care and anxious skill, 
 The fruit it bears is bitter still. 
 
 Fisdousi, Persian Poet. 
 
71 
 
 June 30th, 1839. Critics are the animalculae that feed 
 on the bodies of genius. Coleridge. 
 
 Consciousness is an act, that of itself tends to put down 
 the passions these great, if not sole sources, of human 
 wickedness. Let there be an attempt on the part of the 
 mind to study the phenomena of anger, and its attention is 
 thereby transferred from the cause of the affection to the 
 affection itself; and as soon as its thoughts are withdrawn 
 from the cause, the affection (as if deprived of its needful 
 aliment), dies away from the field of observation. There 
 might be heat and indignation enough in the spirit, so 
 long as it broods over the affront by which they have origi- 
 nated; but whenever it proposes, instead of looking out- 
 wardly at the injustice, to look inwardly at the consequent 
 irritation, it instantly becomes cool. Doctor Chalmers. 
 
 Pleasing, when youth is long expired, to trace 
 The forms our pencil or our pen designed ; 
 
 Such was our youthful air, and shape, and face, 
 Such the soft image of our youthful mind. 
 
 LIST OF CLOTHES IN BOX. 
 
 22 Towels. 
 
 28 Shirts. 
 
 18 pair of Stockings. 
 
 2 pair of Worsted ditto. 
 
 4 pair of Silk ditto. 
 
 11 Colored Handkerchiefs. 
 
 4 Flannel Jackets. 
 2 ditto Drawers. 
 
 1 1 pair of new Stockings. 
 2 Pillow Cases. 
 
 12 Shirt Stocks. 
 
 13 Cambric Handkerchiefs. 
 
72 
 
 July 1st, 1839. At last off the sick list, after an illness 
 which has just lasted four months and ten days, I have 
 thus been prevented resuming my journal until this 
 moment, though there is little to remark, and, therefore, 
 poor encouragement to persevere ; still there is a kind 
 of satisfaction in keeping up a connection with fleeting 
 time, if only by recording common occurrences ; and as I 
 am well aware how much two years have tended to work a 
 change in my whole character, in respect of ideas, feelings, 
 experience, upon which I am daily reflecting so, in after 
 times, in re-perusing these lines, I shall be able to consider 
 what have been my thoughts and habits in the different 
 stages in life, and thus determine whether my feelings are 
 to be those of pleasure or regret. 
 
 Hazerabagh, July 1st, 1839. 
 
 My dear Father, I received your letter, dated February, 
 1839, by the May Overland, and have delayed answering 
 you until now, as I had written and despatched a letter 
 to you only a day before the receipt of yours. I have, in 
 the meantime, been endeavouring to gather some infor- 
 mation regarding my Aunt Maria; the result of my 
 enquiries, however, has not proved very satisfactory : all 
 that I have been able to learn is, that she is still at Meerut, 
 where she lives in retirement. Of the Franco's I know 
 nothing. 
 
 Charles T has obtained leave of absence to visit 
 
 Madras, for the purpose of applying -for a furlough to 
 Europe, on private affairs. He and George are both far 
 removed from any communication with me, and perhaps 
 fortunately so. 
 
 I have only now resumed my regimental duties, after a 
 confinement of more than four months; even yet many 
 
weeks may elapse ere I am restored to my former strength. 
 You will long before this period have received all my former 
 letters, in which is contained every particular as to my 
 goings on here ; so that I must not enter into any super- 
 fluous repetitions, except that I am happy and contented 
 the more so within the last month, from the knowledge 
 that your prospects are at last brightening, though still 
 there is a cloud hovering over, in the vexatious law suit. 
 We have just received news of Melbourne's pretended re- 
 signation the Queen's answer to Peel his consequent 
 refusal of the office of Prime Minister, and Melbourne's 
 too willing resumption of it. The accounts reach no 
 further than the above, but it is evident that Peel is the 
 only man on whom reliance can be placed in the awful 
 crisis to which affairs have arrived. I expect, therefore, to 
 hear of your promotion in some way. I received a letter 
 from Harriet, dated October 10th, 1838, and was delighted 
 to hear that she is so much recovered. Should Robert 
 obtain a cadetship, and not yet on his way out, his plan, on 
 arriving at Madras, (if the vessel touches there), would be 
 to despatch a letter from that place to me, as his letter will 
 reach me some days before his own arrival in Calcutta, and 
 in that case I shall be able to direct him how to act in his 
 new sphere. On my arrival in this country I have wit- 
 nessed the ruin and degradation of many of these cadets ; 
 some, I know, of whom one took the benefit of the Insol- 
 vent Act, and was turned out of the service ; another died. 
 The results cannot but be bad, when a number of young 
 cadets are herded together, left entirely to their own 
 control, and already thinking themselves men of the ivorld. 
 
 I must not forget to mention again, that the difficulty of 
 obtaining a commission in a regiment serving in this 
 country, cannot now be so great, from this fact that our 
 
 Paymaster, Captain , had only to send his papers to 
 
 the Horse Guards, when, without any delay, his son 
 
74 
 
 appeared as Ensign without purchase. It is necessary 
 to add, that interest had no influence in this case, as 
 the Captain could boast of none in any quarter. 
 
 In answer to the latter part of your letter, I am happy 
 to say that I am not in debt even one farthing ; so far from 
 it, that I may be able to save from time to time, how much 
 I cannot determine, expenses here are so uncertain. I am 
 obliged to employ six servants, whereas, in England, one 
 would amply suffice. Then a horse is absolutely indispen- 
 sable (I live a mile from my daily duties). Walking is out 
 of the question, under a scorching sun, or in rain, that 
 falls not in drops or mere showers, but in floods, deluging 
 the ground in half an hour. One of our ensigns has just 
 arrived here from England : he appears a nice young man. 
 You may perhaps know him, or his family, as they live in 
 
 Ireland. The name is W . He is the son of Colonel 
 
 W , who lately died. 
 
 There are but few officers present with the regiment, 
 which tends to render the place more dull. Harriet's letter 
 tells me they have all been staying in Dublin, for the 
 benefit of the boys. I really hope they have passed their 
 examinations creditably. I think William was more fitting 
 in taste, and in that peculiar talent, for the bar than any 
 other profession, but in a large family, expediency, not 
 taste, must be consulted ; however, we ought to have one 
 lawyer at least amongst us. India is the worst place in 
 the world for youth at their outset in life, unless tempered 
 with some share of prudence, and a determined disregard 
 for ridicule, which so often and so fatally perverts the 
 better judgment. I received a letter a few days ago from 
 
 Mr. W. B , of Gloucester Place. Its purport was of 
 
 no great consequence; merely a recommendation of a 
 soldier who had been a clerk of his ; if deserving, I will 
 
 obtain promotion for him, and as you will see Mr. B 
 
 in London, the intimation of my design, coming from you, 
 
75 
 
 may perhaps prove gratifying to him. I intend writing to 
 him myself. He also congratulated me on obtaining my 
 lieutenancy, though up to this moment the confirmation of 
 it lias not reached this country. I hope no expressions in 
 any of my letters has given rise in your mind to the idea 
 that I have ceased to maintain the same friendship for 
 Major Douglas which formerly existed ; so far from such 
 being the case, that I can assure you it has more and more 
 increased, and if sentiments and actions are proofs of sin- 
 cerity, I think I have every right to affirm that no circum- 
 stance is ever likely to occur, sufficiently powerful, to break 
 off or even diminish it. You may recollect that he brought 
 
 young H to a Court-martial, by which the latter was 
 
 found guilty, though leniently treated. Can you believe 
 this fact: Major Douglas has had in his house for the last 
 
 six months the daughter of Major H . The sister of 
 
 this very officer. A man whom he does not arid would not 
 speak to; his conduct has been so unnatural. The one 
 has shown a trait, which, as it is rare, is therefore the more 
 to be admired ; the other has proved himself bereft of that 
 quality which even the brute creation acknowledges and 
 respects I mean natural affection. I instance this to 
 show that my partiality has not been produced from mere 
 mutual likeness of opinions, which often change by time 
 and circumstances. I think that a person possessing solid 
 qualities as above, have not only a claim to respect and 
 esteem, but that it must be inherent in his nature to cherish 
 those feelings towards another, which have not been the 
 offsprings of whim or caprice. 
 
 A calm pervades the fortunes of this country the ob- 
 ject of our operations having been gained; how long this 
 is to last is doubtful. With a handful of men we have 
 accomplished our enterpise ; which, had there been a reso- 
 lute skilful enemy to oppose us, would have proved a task 
 of no little danger and difficulty. 
 
76 
 
 It is consoling to know that there is a fair prospect of 
 providing for William and Robert. It will be a great 
 lightening of the load. Hoping that affairs will continue 
 prosperous, and consequently conduce more to happiness 
 and ease of mind, 
 
 I am, my dear Father, 
 With love and affectionate remembrance to you all, 
 
 Your affectionate and ever dutiful Son, 
 
 J. S. GUMMING. 
 
 P.S. I hope William and Robert will each write me a 
 long letter. 
 
 July 3rd, Wednesday, 1839. Nothing of interest to 
 occupy the attention. Overland expected daily ; ought to 
 have arrived a week ago. Weather is pleasant; neither 
 cold nor hot, though more inclined towards the latter. The 
 rains are very backward this season ; it generally rains a 
 
 little towards evening. Going to dine chez D this 
 
 evening. T.'s to be there. Anticipate a treat ; they are 
 such droll people. Rather lazy, so must leave off. 
 
 July 6th, Saturday. Nothing of consequence. Over- 
 land daily expected. Delightful weather; have begun to 
 take morning rides generally a large party of us four or 
 five gentlemen and three or four ladies. Not paid for my 
 house, but intend doing so soon. Confirmation of my 
 lieutenancy not yet come from England. No letter from 
 sisters since last October, 1838; very vexatious. 
 
 Friday, July 12th, 1839. Overland arrived, but no news. 
 Got a letter from Mr. B , of Gloucester Place, recom- 
 mending a soldier of the regiment to my notice. Must 
 see about it. No letter from home ; very vexatious. Rains 
 have just set in very late. Nothing to interest one all 
 dulness and monotony ; however, I do not feel it, having 
 plenty of books to read. Here ends my writing. 
 
 Friday, July 19th, 1839. A second Overland came 
 
77 
 
 on the 17th, two months from England, bringing important 
 news. Ministry out. Peel would take office only on his 
 own terms, which were just and proper. The Queen obsti- 
 nate he refused. Melbourne and colleagues are in again. 
 This is the full extent of the news. However, Melbourne 
 cannot remain in, having lost the confidence of parliament 
 and people. Received a letter from Harriet, dated Oc- 
 tober 10th, 1838, but not dispatched until January, 1839. 
 She has been very ill, but now well, that is a consolation ; 
 how deeply I have been taught to sympathise with her. 
 William and Robert in college while awaiting their com- 
 missions. William noted in February, 1839, by Lord Hill. 
 Robert has some expectation of a cadetship to this country. 
 I congratulate him, while I feel more than regret at the 
 prospect of his coming out here. It is then that I antici- 
 pate the commencement of his miseries and sufferings. 
 My congratulation arises from the fact, that he will 
 then be no longer a burden to his family, and his departure 
 will thus tend to increase the comforts of those whom he 
 has left behind. No news nothing stirring to rouse or 
 amuse one. 
 
 Hazerabagh, August 5th, 1839. 
 
 My dear Harriet I received yours dated October 10th, 
 1838, and January 19th, 1839, on the 22nd of July, which 
 gave me the greatest pleasure from the knowledge that 
 you have at last recovered the principal blessing here, 
 health ; I thought ould Ireland would still respect one of 
 her daughters. I think since I left England there must 
 have been existing between us a kind of what the mesmerist 
 calls Rapport, by which the sensibilities of one person are 
 affected sympathetically by those of another, at whatever 
 time and distance. We have each suffered from illness at 
 the same period, each are now again tasting the returning 
 
78 
 
 pleasures of health; the fever with which you had been 
 seized, seems to have done more good than otherwise, as is 
 often the case, at least in this country you can now once 
 more participate in the enjoyment of the drive, and even 
 take your daily walk, with an ardour increased by the 
 feelings of recovered strength and vigour. I am delighted 
 to know that you are so well, and I have only one wish, 
 that of actual not ideal presence ; the latter is a poor 
 substitution, though it even proves some consolation. I 
 can fancy you roaming over your domain, or perhaps 
 looking around from one of the hills that encircle Magher- 
 acloone, fancying yourself the queen of all you survey. 
 I might do the same here, but I would give the whole that 
 comes within the compass of my glance, for the sight of 
 one solitary acre there. However, this place approaches 
 more to England than any other station in India, and when 
 the time arrives for moving from it, will be a period of 
 regret to us all. I will be exchanging an airy room for a 
 raging furnace ; here ten months of enjoyable life, there ten 
 months of a mere existence this is not exaggerating it, 
 one can form no proper idea of the mode of life in India, 
 without coming to participate in it. I am always up in the 
 morning at five o'clock, either to perform my regimental 
 duties, or to take a long ride in the country, which I never 
 neglect. The hour of retiring to rest is generally ten 
 o'clock, so that you see the active day here is much longer 
 than in England, but many sleep three or four hours in 
 the middle of the day ; this habit I have not yet contracted, 
 I do not indeed approve of it ; books are my resources in 
 passing the day, and having been some time accustomed to 
 the confinement of the house, I can now never induce 
 myself to go out during the day except in necessity. The 
 letter dated February 1839, which came from the governor, 
 reached me prior to yours dated above. The subpoena 
 business proved a mere fright, but you know I should have 
 
79 
 
 been awkwardly situated with regard to them had it taken 
 effect. Many rumours are floating about of a Burmese war, 
 and of one also with the Nepaulese ; look over the map, 
 and you will see how peculiarly we are situated with regard 
 to them : a war with both those powers is ultimately 
 certain, at present very doubtful, notwithstanding reports 
 abroad. John Company has quite enough in the North 
 West to 'occupy him, however, when that business is off 
 his hands, he will then turn and crush these foes in the 
 opposite quarters, their fate is merely postponed two or 
 three years. I have not given up the hope that you will 
 send the pictures; I am most anxious for them, but I 
 suppose I must not press you at present, as you are 
 engaged upon an interesting subject. Pray do you intend 
 preserving the copy in remembrance of the original ; you 
 have raised, not satisfied my curiosity, so much so, that it 
 is very troublesome; first one idea arises, then another, 
 thoughts after thoughts suggest themselves, but in vain, I 
 am just where I began : you at last know how to teach 
 patience, but I am afraid I am a bad scholar, for I assure 
 you I am on the rack for the next letter. I am glad to 
 hear you have joined an amusement so congenial to your 
 taste, the harp, you have then discarded the piano ; the 
 latter would be to me a novelty I never hear it. How- 
 ever, one of our ladies plays and sings delightfully on the 
 guitar, she is the wife of Major , and as I am fre- 
 quently chez-lui, I have an opportunity of listening ; she is" 
 a peculiar person, with uncommon talents, though not 
 cultivated : she is a Dutch lady, and when he married her 
 she could not speak, read or write the English language ; 
 but now she wonders that she has totally forgotten her own 
 tongue, and is as perfect in that one which was before so 
 strange to her, as if she had been taught it from childhood. 
 You tell me nothing of friends either in Dublin or London ; 
 I like to know how the distant world are getting on; I 
 received a letter Overland from Mr. B but he gives 
 
80 
 
 no London news. I am glad to tell you that the present 
 society (I mean that immediate society among the officers) 
 forms a pleasing contrast to that which existed in Chinsura, 
 and which you may recollect I described many months ago. 
 The bad spirits no longer disturb the peace of the corps, 
 some having gone to England and the rest finding them- 
 selves shunned, now only indulge their spleen among 
 themselves. The head of this cabal was a Captain , 
 it is enough to say of him, that if I was inclined to employ 
 any, even the strongest expressions, in illustration of his 
 conduct and character, I should be fully justified in doing 
 so ; you may perhaps meet him in Dublin, as he is an 
 
 Irishman. I like much better than I thought I 
 
 should, but still I am not intimate with him, I could not 
 be ; he is a lively, bustling person, never at a loss in any 
 society, and you know such people generally get on best in 
 the world ; the fascinating man, though possessing an ugly 
 exterior, carries away the prize from his rival, who, with 
 more graces of person, has less lively parts ; Mirabeau was 
 the most hideous of men, yet the most loved, Swift also. 
 You never mentioned having met the G (I can- 
 not spell the name) so I suppose then the name of relation 
 never escapes your lips, as poor Haynes Bayly says, 
 " you are now forbid to speak, that once familiar 
 word ; " such a word is not in my vocabulary. I was 
 reminded of it once on board ship by a lady, who claimed 
 
 relationship with me through old Mr. C , of Naples, 
 
 but she is gone to one quarter, and I to another, and there 
 is an end to it now ; the only way is to do as they did in 
 regard to titles in revolutionary France, make new relations 
 in the world by affection and good will, such after all are 
 the surest. I hope, however, your answer to this will 
 contain subjects for congratulation, as the law suit will be 
 then at rest ; you have not told me how you like Dublin 
 and its inhabitants. 
 
81 
 
 Write me a long, a very long letter to hear of you all 
 is the greatest consolation I have, but I must not complain 
 of not having received letters ; you say you received a 
 letter from me dated August 1838, but I wrote many 
 dated before that, which ought to have reached you ; the 
 Overland will arrive in a few days, by which I expect to 
 hear from the governor in answer to my letter dated 
 November 1838. I have little news to give you from the 
 midst of this wilderness ; pray lose no time in enlivening 
 this solitude. I have little else to think of, but of you all. 
 If you should have any pretty pieces of music, old not new, 
 and do not want them, they would be very acceptable ; 
 you might send them with the pictures, such things are 
 scarce here. I think I must bid adieu for the present ; 
 1 enclose my best love to yourself and Helena, governor 
 and boys, and believe me, my dearest Harriet, with 
 constant anxiety for your welfare and happiness, 
 
 Your ever most affectionate Brother, 
 J. S. GUMMING. 
 
 An exile in the land of Idolaters. 
 
 August 9th, 1839. Nothing worth noting. Overland 
 expected in every day, which I suppose will bring the con- 
 firmation of my lieutenancy. I have this day paid for 
 my house, the agreed sum of 700 rupees, to Major Stephens, 
 of the 49th regiment.* Received a letter from Harriet, 
 July 23rd, 1839, which I have answered. 
 
 August llth, 1839, Sunday. Expediency, is the having 
 no standard of right in one's own mind ; and consistency, is 
 having a standard never out of sight or pursuit, even when 
 out of reach. 
 
 * This payment appears made two months within the stipulated time, 
 and every transaction in which the amiable author appears engaged 
 in, is surrounded with sincerity, purity, simpleness, propriety, and 
 honor. See Messrs. Stephen's, Tronson's, and Olphert's notes in the 
 Appendix. 
 
 G 
 
82 
 
 The arms with which the ill dispositions of the world are 
 to be combated, and the qualities by which it is to be 
 reconciled to us, and we reconciled to it, are moderation, 
 gentleness, a little indulgence to others, and a great distrust 
 of ourselves; which are not qualities of a mean spirit, 
 as some may possibly think them, but virtues of a great 
 and noble mind, and such as dignify our nature, as much as 
 they contribute to our repose and fortune. For nothing 
 can be so unworthy of a well composed soul as to pass 
 away life in bickerings and litigations in snarling and 
 snuffling with every one about us. Burkes Letter to 
 Barry, the Painter. 
 
 August 19th, 1839, Saturday. Half the misery in this 
 life originates in its falsehood. We conceal our thoughts 
 and our feelings, till even to ourselves they become con- 
 fused, and half our time is spent in fretting, and feverish 
 attempts to disentangle the webs we have woven ; and the 
 strange thing is, that all this dissimulation is unnecessary. 
 We should have done far better without it. 
 
 August 30th, 1839, Friday. The readiest mode to cor- 
 rupt a Christian man is, to bestow upon vice the pity and 
 praise which are due only to virtue. It is by giving fair 
 names to foul actions, that those who would start at real 
 vice, are led to practise its lessons under the disguise of 
 virtue. Walter Scott. 
 
 Hazerabagh, September 12th, 1839. 
 My dear Helen Yours, dated February, 1839, reached 
 me on the 23rd August. I have been long in expectation 
 of hearing from you, but knowing the necessity for a re- 
 strained correspondence heretofore, I had, perforce, learned 
 to temper my impatience. It has, perhaps, its reward ; for 
 when a letter does arrive, the pleasure it affords seems, 
 somehow, proportionally greater. You will have seen ere 
 this, in the papers, the notification of Indian achievements 
 
against the Affghans ; and you will also see, that while 
 other regiments have had their share in what little glory 
 there was, we, the 9th, have remained calm, but anxious, 
 spectators of the scene of contest. But do you know, 
 I scarcely regret our riot having gone with the expedition ; 
 their achievements have not been very brilliant. With the 
 exception of the capture of Ghuznee that, indeed, was a 
 bold and daring act, and, very fortunately, happened to 
 succeed. The happy results accruing from it have been 
 enormous, in the moral effect it has had on the minds 
 of the enemy. So much has it increased the terror of the 
 British arms, that, that one success alone has decided the 
 campaign, and we are in possession of all we could desire. 
 
 You mention William's name being down for purchase 
 that is fortunate ; and I do not see what great expectations 
 he can have in view, that he should be disposed to regret 
 this oportunity of providing for himself, when it shall pre- 
 sent itself. Age is a matter of no consideration at least 
 not in India where promotion is rapid. 
 
 In entering upon a military life, it is an advantage, as it 
 is supposed, to be attended with some slight share of expe- 
 rience : but here high flown notions soon temper down to 
 more sober ideas ; so I advise him, in place of despairing, 
 to rejoice at his good fortune ; but I suppose I may rather 
 "preach "to the storm, and reason with despair; at all 
 events, tell him I am in hopes of seeing him out with 
 me yet. 
 
 September 29th, 1839. The Overland reached this 
 place a few days ago, by which I expected a letter from 
 the governor, but am disappointed. I see my name in the 
 Gazette is confirmed at home. I have been fortunate, 
 but the next ensign is still more so. He has only been in 
 the regiment a year, and has already obtained his pro- 
 motion by another death (of Lieutenant Sanders), who died 
 on his passage home on sick leave. 
 
84 
 
 The mortality among the officers of this corps has been 
 extremely melancholy a reflection that we are in this 
 world but as pilgrims, ignorant to what limit our sojourn in 
 it may be adjudged. Even in the short space of two 
 years, how many well known, and some esteemed faces, do 
 I miss ; but I must stop, or I shall be infecting you with 
 melancholy ideas, when I should endeavour my all, to raise 
 those of pleasure and satisfaction. One of our ensigns 
 (Mac Leod), has arrived in Calcutta. He danced with you 
 at a ball in Dublin. I shall, therefore, obtain some infor- 
 mation of you from him. You did not even mention him 
 in your last. I am delighted to know, from your letter, 
 that you are not altogether condemned to solitude and mo- 
 notony, but that you have had opportunities of joining in 
 
 Dublin gaieties. Dora M I recollect well, but thought 
 
 her an awkward girl ; but at that time you know I had no 
 right to judge. These first impressions and first appear- 
 ances were generally more lasting, though more erroneous ; 
 however, as you appear to be greatly charmed with her, 
 I presume she cannot be otherwise than a delightful com- 
 panion. By the bye, William must take care of his heart : 
 he is coming of age, and may be ambitious of signalising 
 his freedom from thraldom, by some worthy act, and as- 
 piring in all things else, he may be aspiring in this also ; 
 but he would, in my opinion, be merely changing his yoke 
 of servitude (the last perhaps the most burdensome, cer- 
 tainly in his situation). My dearest Helen, do not laugh 
 at me for thus bounding off from one subject to another, in 
 disregard to all connection ; but my only excuse is, that I 
 write to you the thoughts that come uppermost, well 
 knowing that you are better pleased with ideas genuine, 
 though roughly expressed. You mention Harriet's having 
 declared her intention of coming out : * of course, in joke. 
 She would repent it ; and I question whether every young 
 lady who has subjected herself to the experiment, 
 * This she has carried into effect, as she is now in Bengal. 
 
85 
 
 has not had cause to regret the trial. What does Louisa 
 
 M say ? I am persuaded, ere this, she must have 
 
 given you her opinion ; and, no doubt, a favourable one ; but 
 then she has had every comfort she could wish for. She 
 felt not the misery of the climate, for she has spent all her 
 time in a remote corner (Simla), as delightful as England ; 
 and, therefore, looking at the bright side of the picture, 
 she has been influenced to judge in favor of an Indian 
 voyage and of life. Indian hospitality, in its sense, some 
 years ago, is now obsolete. I ought, I think, just to allow 
 you a peep at my domestic affairs. Well, here I am, sitting 
 on a sofa, writing this to you in a house built in the form 
 of a cone: thatched and tiled, with a large verandah in 
 front, in which I walk for exercise. When tired of re- 
 maining in the house walking elsewhere being out of the 
 question, on account of the too great regard which the 
 sun is apt to evince. This house is situated in what I shall 
 call a small park * all my own tastefully adorned with 
 a few tropical trees, shrubberies, Sec. &c. &c. I have, 
 moreover, a large garden the best in the station sup- 
 plying roses, and all kinds of delightful flowers : fruit 
 trees in abundance, and different sorts of vegetables ; so 
 that I have many opportunities of ingratiating myself with 
 the ladies, by frequently presenting them with the pro- 
 ductions of the garden. I cannot express to you how I am 
 delighted at the prospect of remaining here three years, 
 after the experience I have had of other stations. I have 
 no wish to go back to them. I have remarked that those 
 faces which were pale and sickly when in Chirisura, have, 
 in this genial climate, acquired fine blooming, healthy 
 tints. I feel the change, although I have not yet entirely 
 recovered from the effects of my illness in February, 
 
 I am very happy and comfortable here, as far as self is 
 
 concerned; and whatever uneasiness I feel, arises solely 
 
 * This now remains unsold, and useless. This is one of the injuries 
 
 inflicted on $riM& officers, who are frequently obliged to purchase or 
 
 build a residence on new stations. 
 
86 
 
 
 
 from thinking how you all may bo situated : so that you 
 may well judge with what satisfaction I hail the receipt of 
 news from you. I am about to lose my best friend. Major 
 Douglas. He is appointed to a staff situation in Calcutta, 
 where he will remain until he obtains his promotion in the 
 regiment, which I think is not far distant. 
 
 Of the Churchill's, I hear nothing ; of Mrs. F I hear 
 
 nothing; in short, I hear and know nothing of any of my 
 relations. 
 
 Our removal from this station is likelv to be to Meerut. 
 (far distant, I hope) ; and in that case, I shall, of course. 
 
 see Mrs. F , my cousin, and her mother. 
 
 October 2nd. I wrote to Mr. B , of Gloucester 
 
 Place, a few days ago, in answer to a letter from him. 1 
 am glad that I had the power to accomplish the object of 
 his wishes. 
 
 You appear to have given up the idea of obtaining a 
 cadetship through his wife's means. In your letter you 
 
 mention Miss J . Poor tiling ! As to Lieut. B. , 
 
 the opinion of his character which I have been, up to this 
 time, able to form, (my /nnnh/c opinion, mind f) is, that he 
 is a very enthusiastic person in his ideas, though fickle, 
 and volatile, restless, for constant change, and never happy, 
 but in the turmoil of business, amusements, delighted 
 whenever an occasion offers for a show of influence 1 or 
 authority. On the whole, I am inclined to like him better 
 than I supposed possible, from the accounts previously 
 given me of his inclinations, feelings, and principles ; but 
 
 1 am told he is much improved from B of former days. 
 
 He is older, and, consequently, more sober, and is not in- 
 temperate in his conduct or language, but quite the gentle- 
 man. In what concerns the heart or affections, I am not 
 at liberty to speak : I can only say, I would not put him 
 to the test. This is secret and confidential. I shall arraign 
 you if you dare divulge it. I have received an Overland 
 letter from the governor, dated June 3rd, 18oJ). 1 had 
 
87 
 
 already written to him. His communication has given me 
 the greatest satisfaction, from the favourable view in which 
 it represents all your prospects and interests. O sacra 
 fames ! You, no doubt, understand that. What will not 
 people do for the possession of money ? stifle their best 
 affections, close their ears to the dictates of justice and 
 honor, and are even willing to eternally subject themselves 
 to the galling whispers and reproaches of that ever-present 
 monitor in their own bosoms, conscience. So they have 
 been defeated ; but I presume that they are not yet deter- 
 mined to give up their project, while they have so able an 
 abettor in F. T. 
 
 I will rigidly adhere to your injunctions. Believe me, 
 your ideas as to a certain event, more immediately impor- 
 tant to myself, / fully appreciate. Society here is not 
 extensive, but sociability among ourselves has much im- 
 proved. You may recollect my account of it in Chinsura 
 there lamentable. We have now become what we ought 
 ever to have been not that the seeds which were sown do 
 not still remain : their growth only has been checked by 
 the stern discountenance of the older officers, I should say, 
 of some of the older officers. Should, however, these 
 seeds give appearances of revigoration, which there is too 
 much cause to apprehend, (two of our best and oldest 
 captains being on the eve of departure, Major Douglas and 
 Captain Hammill), I have learned so to regulate my 
 conduct that I am in no fear of involvement in whatever 
 may occur. I have already witnessed too much evil from 
 the indulgence of temper, not to be convinced that a strict 
 command over the passions and prejudices, is the only mode 
 to insure peace and happiness to the individual, while it 
 confers on him a claim to the respect and esteem of those 
 with whom he is associated. I forgot to mention that a 
 
 duel took place on our march from Chinsura. Young 
 
 the hero of the court-martial, was a principal, with a Mr. 
 
88 
 
 R , an ensign, who died here last January. The latter 
 
 knocked down the former, the result of which was, that 
 three successive shots passed between them, without, how- 
 ever, any injury to either. There the business ended ; but 
 this serves to shew you the inveterate hatred, at least of 
 one of the party. Another duel took place a short time 
 ago, but it was amicably settled. However, a man who 
 chooses, can easily go through the vicissitudes of life, and 
 still avoid subjecting himself to the above ordeals. 
 
 I must finish now, or I think I could thus talk, through 
 the medium of fingers, until when ? until the bugle shall 
 sound to-morrow morning at five o'clock, and rouse me 
 from this delightful tite-a-t&te. Love and dearest remem- 
 brance to Harriet, yourself, and the boys, affectionate re- 
 membrance to my father, happiness, and . t better prospects 
 to all. 
 
 Your most affectionate brother, 
 
 J. S. GUMMING. 
 
 October 7th, 1839, Monday. 
 
 L'absence est la mort mais la 
 
 Memorie, c'est I'lmmortalite. a good motto. 
 
 Moulded by hex, her son to manhood grown, 
 She now can claim his vices as hr own. 
 
 October 23rd, 1839, Wednesday. It is not by corporeal 
 wants and infirmities only that men of the most distinguished 
 talents are levelled, during their lifetime, with the common 
 mass of mankind. Old Mortality. 
 
 October 23rd, 1839 There are periods of mental agita- 
 tion when the firmest of mortals must be ranked with the 
 weakest of his brethren, and when, in paying the general 
 tax of humanity, his distresses are even aggravated by 
 feeling that he transgresses, in the indulgence of his grief, 
 
89 
 
 the rules of religion and philosophy, by which he endeavours 
 in general to regulate his passions and his actions. Old 
 Mortality. 
 
 November 20th, Wednesday. Douglas left this for Cal- 
 cutta. I have lost a friend. May he be happy and com- 
 fortable where he is going. I fear I have seen him for the 
 last time.* 
 
 November 24th, 1839 Influence of Attention. Atten- 
 tion is very much influenced by habit, and connected with 
 this subject there are some facts of much interest. There 
 is a remarkable law of the system, by which actions, at first 
 requiring much attention, are, after frequent repetition, 
 performed with a much less degree of it, or without the 
 mind being conscious of any effort. This is exemplified in 
 various processes of daily occurrence, as reading and writing, 
 but most remarkably in music. Musical performance at 
 first requires the closest attention ; but the effort becomes 
 constantly less, until it is often not perceived at all ; and a 
 lady may be seen running over a piece of music on the 
 piano, and at the same time talking on another subject. 
 
 We see the same principle exemplified in the rapidity 
 with which an expert arithmetician can sum a long column 
 of figures, without being conscious of the individual combi- 
 nations. 
 
 It is illustrated in another manner by the feat of jug- 
 glers ; the deception produced by which depends upon 
 their performing a certain number of motions with such 
 rapidity, that the attention of the spectators does not follow 
 all the combinations. 
 
 In teaching such arts as music or arithmetic, this prin- 
 ciple is also illustrated; for the most expert arithmetician 
 or performer is not necessarily, and perhaps not generally, the 
 best teacher of the art; but he who with a competent know- 
 ledge of it, directs his attention to the individual minute 
 combinations, through which it is necessary for the learner 
 * This prophetic apprehension was realized. 
 
90 
 
 to advance. AbercromUe on Intellectual Powers, Sensation, 
 and Perception. 
 
 The reception of facts upon the evidence of testimony, 
 must be considered as a fundamental principle of our 
 nature, to be acted upon whenever we are satisfied that 
 the testimony possesses certain characters of credibility 
 Testimony. AbercromUe 's Testimony, page 92 93. 
 
 Thus, if we find a man, who in other respects shows 
 every indication of a sound mind, relating an event which 
 happened under his own inspection, and in such circum- 
 stances that he could not possibly be deceived, if his state- 
 ment be such as contributes in no respect to his credit or 
 advantage, but on the contrary exposes him to ridicule, 
 contempt and persecution ; if, notwithstanding he steadily 
 perseveres in it under every species of persecution, and 
 even to the suffering of death, to suppose such a testimony 
 intended to deceive, would be to assume a deviation from 
 the established course of human character, as remarkable as 
 any event which it could possibly convey to us. This might 
 be maintained with regard to one such testimony, but when 
 we find numerous witnesses agreeing in the same testimony, 
 all equally informed of the facts, all shewing the same 
 characters of credibility, and without the possibility of 
 concert or connivance, the evidence becomes not convincing 
 only, but incontrovertible. 
 
 March 22nd, 1840, Sunday. I must not allow my con- 
 science to accuse me of a failing in resolution, nor shall 
 the fearful lapse of time from the last date of my journal, 
 deter me by showing its fruitlessness, from resuming it. I 
 cannot now recall to mind the real cause of this awful 
 interval, but to guess is not so difficult ; laziness, or some- 
 thing else as bad, must have been the cause ; a fault, a vice, 
 I call it, which I am fully conscious I ought at all times 
 strenuously to exert myself to resist. December is now a 
 blank month, January and February little better, though I 
 
91 
 
 kept some account of them, they were spent in marching 
 from Hazerabagh to Agra. We received a sudden and 
 unexpected order in December, and in consequence the 
 regiment is now at Agra; the regiment marched in on 
 Friday the 6th of March. I took a house conjointly with 
 Ensign Layard, as long as the regiment should remain, 
 removed in and was getting settled, when on the 13th I 
 saw myself in orders to proceed and relieve Lieut. Elm- 
 hirst, in charge of the sick and women of the regiment, on 
 their way, by water, to Agra. I started in a boat down 
 the Jumna on Sunday the 15th, and here I am now alone, 
 and with the prospect of being so, at least for the next 
 three days. I am at present some miles below the con- 
 fluence of the Jumna and Chumbul Rivers. I hope to find 
 the party at Calpee, when I shall take charge of it ; and Elm- 
 hirst cuts across to Cawnpore, to join Sir E. Williams, to 
 whom he is appointed aid-de-camp. I shall experience much 
 trouble in command of the party, but that I must expect ; 
 I can never, and no one should think it possible or expect, 
 to learn my professional duties, without much trouble, and 
 much attention, and consequently, as a principle of acting, 
 this is the best, and one which I am determined to follow ; 
 to cheerfully perform whatever, others think necessary to 
 direct me (to a certain extent of course); to refrain from 
 expressing any feelings of disapprobation) particularly in 
 public ; to show and to feel on all occasions, an honest zeal 
 in professional pursuits, despite the sneers and ridicule of 
 some, who may be unavoidable companions; the general 
 laxity of others you must never allow as an excuse or an 
 example to yourself ; not the power of numbers of a com- 
 munity, but a principle of right, of honesty, still more 
 conscience, is the truest, the best, the never failing director 
 and adviser; by acting according to its suggestions, a 
 feeling of satisfaction ensues, which is present under all 
 circumstances, and gives a peace and quiet to the mind, 
 more lasting and consoling than all the praises and good 
 
92 
 
 wishes that man can or is willing to bestow; the one is 
 durable, the other may, and often it does, change even to 
 the reverse. 
 
 Monday, March 23rd. Contrary to my most sanguine 
 expectations, I have met the detachment of sick and women 
 about the Ghaut, which leads to Secundra ; Elmhirst halted 
 the party, in order to give over to me the charge. I have 
 arranged everything connected with the party entirely to 
 my satisfaction, and I now anticipate little trouble. 
 
 It is extraordinary that Elmhirst has received no official 
 notice of his appointment, nor of his being about to be 
 released by me ; and, indeed, the first intimation of it was 
 a verbal one from myself. Taylor did not write to him, 
 and he is now going to Cawnpore on his own responsibility, 
 resting on the authority which I bore, which was but 
 verbal. Taylor is evidently vexed at the conduct of Sir 
 
 E. W , who has neglected to write to him about 
 
 Elmhirst's appointment, which he ought, in mere courtesy, 
 have done ; but 'still, this should never have interfered with 
 the regimental duties. 
 
 Agra, May 7th, 1840. 
 
 My dear Father I received your Overland letter con- 
 taining the " power of attorney " on the 25th of April. 
 For the last three months and a half, from the 1st of 
 January until a few days before the receipt of your letter, 
 I have been what I call on my travels, and have in the way 
 of duty seen more of this part of the world than I had ever 
 anticipated. I am now, and most of my companions, 
 beginning to experience the more practical part of a 
 "soldier's life;" to feel all its stern realities, its advantages 
 and disadvantages, bringing a sober conviction, that ease 
 and comfort should not be expected or thought of for 
 a moment, and that contentment in a soldier, under what- 
 ever circumstances or privations, is a real blessing which 
 none can so much feel as its possessor. 
 
93 
 
 The regiment started on a sudden order from Hazera- 
 bagh, and entered the celebrated city of " Agra" March 6th, 
 so that we had more than two months' of incessant 
 marching; the tales of eastern splendour are indeed but 
 tales. I have gone to view and admire those monuments 
 of princely magnificence, famed in history, and talked of 
 in the present day, but generally have seen nothing but 
 ground covered with bricks, or perhaps one or two small 
 buildings, called mosques ; there is nothing to give one an 
 idea of the vaunted splendour of the east, with indeed one 
 grand exception, an immense building in this place, built 
 entirely of marble, inlaid in many parts with gold ; it is 
 called the Jaj, and was erected by Shah Jehan, then 
 emperor, to the memory of his best beloved ; his grief 
 and despair for her death was such, that he resolved to 
 transmit her memory to posterity by building a monument, 
 which surpasses in grandeur and execution anything that 
 ever had been or could be conceived. I believe it has 
 surpassed description. It is indeed indescribable, ages 
 have had no effect upon it, it stands as fresh and perfect, 
 as if but the erection of yesterday. Every vestige of the 
 despot rulers of this country is swept away ; one record 
 alone remains, and that as if in mere mockery of their 
 deeds, resigns them to oblivion, and tells only of the 
 virtues and fate of an aspiring woman. 
 
 On arrival in Agra, I had in a few days procured a house, 
 and made arrangements for the rest of our stay here, 
 when I received an order to go down the river Jumna, and 
 take command of the detachment of our regiment, which 
 was slowly proceeding up the river under the command of 
 Lieut. Elmhirst. Accordingly I was soon on the move 
 again. Started down the Jumna, and brought back the 
 detachment in a month's time. 
 
 Thus far I have seen something of the country. The 
 
94 
 
 people of that part through which I passed are ignorant 
 and savage, most of them never having seen an Englishman 
 before. I consequently had a great deal of trouble with 
 them in procuring supplies for the people under my charge. 
 Conceive a party of nearly a hundred, men, women and 
 children on this river, (so closely packed in boats that I 
 am surprised they had so little sickness), proceeding at the 
 rate of twenty miles a day, each boat drawn against the 
 stream by eight or ten men, the heat at this time averaging 
 90 degrees ; in my own boat the thermometer rose to 105 
 degrees. But the doctor, my only companion, and I, made 
 ourselves quite at home in this wilderness, and roughed it 
 upon whatever could be procured from the savages. Agra 
 is, I should think, a nice station. At present the intense 
 heat of a perpendicular sun, and the fiery winds, render it 
 impossible to appear out of the house ; inside it is tolera- 
 ble. Tatteis, kept wet, cool the air within the rooms, and 
 so we exist. 
 
 There is every probability of our going to " Cabul " 
 next October; forces are required there, and the 9th are 
 disposable. I hope it. 
 
 I am delighted to hear that affairs at home are at last 
 beginning to run more smoothly, and that there is a good 
 prospect for William in the 9th. By all means, if ga- 
 zetted into another corps, an exchange could easily be 
 managed. In the event of success, and arrival in Calcutta, 
 his first duty will be to report himself to Major Douglas, 
 major of brigade in the foot; let him mention his name 
 
 only, and I know Major D will insist upon his making 
 
 his house his home, and will give him every instruction 
 and advice. I am however anticipating; though Major 
 
 D and I am separated, still we regularly correspond, 
 
 and from the aspect of things in the regiment, I think it 
 not unlikely that he may succeed to the command. You 
 
95 
 
 mention Mrs. M 1. She has gone home with her 
 
 husband, and is by this time in England. Mrs. C is, 
 
 I believe, in Calcutta. I have heard little of them. 
 
 I unexpectedly met one of the sons of Sir Wm. O , 
 
 whom you knew at Boulogne. He was at that time a boy, 
 and is now an ensign in a native regiment here ; he has 
 only been two months in the country. You wish to know 
 whether, in the event of your coming out, India would 
 agree with you. It is altogether unsuitable for a person of 
 active habits, confinement to the house being absolutely 
 necessary for the nine months in the year. At from 
 eighteen to twenty-five years it is considered the most 
 tolerable period for coming out to India, as at that age the 
 habits and constitution are not fully formed, but that they 
 may admit of change. Expenses are great. Servants are 
 a constant source of annoyance ; one is wholly dependent 
 upon them. Force and fear only compels those people to 
 serve gratitude and affection are unknown among them. 
 No confidence is to be placed in any one individual. For 
 money they will sell anything; their conversation, from 
 morning until night, is of money, and I have heard a 
 respectable native say, that a mans worldly wealth can be 
 esteemed by his personal appearance, if thin, he is poor ; 
 if fat and good humoured, he is rich or getting rich. They 
 think it justifiable to cheat and rob an European at every 
 opportunity, detection never shames or deters them. I do 
 not think this country would agree with you, (I mean 
 Bengal), it requires a total change of habits. 
 
 I am now within a short distance of aunt F . She 
 
 has not taken the slightest notice of me. There is a proba- 
 bility of our removing to Meerut at the end of the rains, 
 and then I shall be in the same station with her. I am 
 
 living with a brother officer, (L by name), we have a 
 
 large house between us. Houses are at so high a rent here 
 that the single men are obliged to live together by twos 
 and threes. This part differs much from Bengal; the 
 
96 
 
 latter is damp, covering every thing with mould, and con- 
 sequently very unhealthy, the former is extremely dry and 
 healthy. 
 
 This is an immense station, and in the cooler months 
 there is much gaiety. 
 
 There is a Miss Reed here, but I have not yet seen her 
 to learn whether she knew Harriet and Helena. I will 
 take means to effect what you desire relating to making a 
 will ; the power is enclosed. 
 
 I have already told you how I am situated. I can manage 
 to save something every month, (though for the last three 
 months my expenses have been double), and if I had not 
 been laying up for a rainy day, I might now, like others, 
 have found myself in debt. When ordered on any de- 
 tached duty, (such as mine down the river Jumna), you are ex- 
 pected to provide yourself with all necessaries without delay ; 
 your means are never considered ; in some cases you are 
 allowed certain sums to defray expenses incurred, but these 
 are not given until perhaps some months have elapsed, and 
 then they are generally inadequate to your expenditure. 
 
 I am very anxious to see William's name in the Gazette. 
 It is a long time since I have received a letter, and I am in 
 daily expectation of one. Love to Harriet, Helena, and 
 the boys. Believe me my dear Father, 
 
 Your ever affectionate Son, 
 
 J. S. GUMMING. 
 
 May 19th, 1840.- 
 
 i. 
 
 To sit on rocks to muse o'er flood and fell, 
 
 To slowly trace the forests shady scene, 
 Where things that own not man's dominion dwell, 
 
 And mortal's foot hath ne 'er or rarely been. 
 To climb the trackless mountain all unseen 
 
 With the wild flock, that ne'er needs a fold, 
 Alone, o'er steeps and foaming falls to lean. 
 
 This is not solitude, 'tis but to hold 
 
 Converse with nature's charms, and view her charms un- 
 rolled. 
 
97 
 
 ii. 
 But midst the . . . . , the hum, the shock of men, 
 
 To hear, to see, to feel, and to possess, 
 And roam along the world's tired denizen, 
 
 With none who bless, none whom we can bless. 
 Minions of splendour shrinking from distress ; 
 
 None that with kindred consciousness endued. 
 If we were not, would seem to smile the less 
 
 Of all that nattered, followed, sought and sued. 
 
 This is to be alone, this is solitude ! 
 
 Byron s Childe Harold. Canto 2nd. 
 
 From the wreck of the past which has perished, 
 
 This much I at least may recall. 
 It hath taught me that what I most cherished, 
 
 Deserved to be dearest of all. 
 In the desert a fountain is springing, 
 
 In the wide waste there still is a tree, 
 And a bird in the solitude singing, 
 
 Which speaks to my spirit of thee. 
 
 Byron to a Sister. 
 
 Agra, May 23rd, 1840. A youth who has spent his life 
 among books, new to the world, and unacquainted with 
 man, but by philosophical information, may be considered as 
 a being whose mind is filled with the vulgar errors of the 
 wise, utterly unqualified for a journey through life, yet 
 confident of his own skill in the direction, he sets out with 
 confidence, blunders on with vanity, and finds himself at 
 last undone. He first has learned from books, and then 
 lays it down as a maxim that all mankind are virtuous, or 
 vicious in excess, and he has been long taught to detest 
 vice, and love virtue ; warm therefore in attachments, and 
 steadfast in enmity, he treats every creature as friend or 
 foe, expects from those he loves unerring integrity, and 
 
 H 
 
consigns his enemies to the reproach of wanting every virtue. 
 On this principle he proceeds, and here begin his disappoint- 
 ments. Upon a closer inspection of human nature, he per- 
 ceives that he should have moderated his friendships, and 
 softened his severities, for he often finds the excellencies 
 of one part of mankind clouded with vice, and the faults 
 of the other brightened w r ith virtue ; he finds no character 
 so sanctified that has not its failings none so infamous, 
 but has somewhat to attract our esteem ; he beholds im- 
 piety in lawn, and fidelity in fetters. He now, therefore, 
 but too late, perceives that his regards should have been 
 more cool, and his hatred less violent that the truly wise 
 seldom court romantic friendships with the good, and avoid, if 
 possible, the resentment even with the wicked ; every moment 
 gives him fresh instances that the bonds of friendship are 
 broken, if drawn too closely, and that those whom he has 
 treated with disrespect, more than retaliate the injury. At 
 length therefore he is obliged to confess that he has declared 
 war upon the vicious half of mankind, without being able 
 to form an alliance among the virtuous to espouse his 
 quarrel. Goldsmith's Citizen of the World. 
 
 Agra, July, 1840. 
 
 My dearest Helen, I received a short time ago two 
 letters from you, one by ship, the other Overland, dated 
 Chvistmas night, and March 29th respectively, and accord- 
 ing to your promise anxiously expected to hear by the last 
 Overland. Now that the Overland conveyance has con- 
 tracted the distance between us, and that postage in 
 England has been at the same time lessened to a penny 
 rate, I propose writing always by this channel. You will 
 have read ere this of our having been again on the wing. 
 We are at present taking a short rest at Agra the far 
 famed "Agra," and I doubt not that the ensuing cold 
 season will be spent in marching ; it is said towards Cabul. 
 
99 
 
 Glance your eye over the map, direct it to Calcutta, thence 
 to Agra, and from that place to Cabul, and you will be 
 aware of the immense extent of country we shall have 
 traversed. We meet with different characteristics in the 
 inhabitants the higher we go. One thing I observe, how- 
 ever, that a spirit of low cunning and selfishness is universal 
 and inherent ; I have not discovered one single exception. 
 You little thought that at the very time of your writing to 
 advise change of air, I, with the regiment, had been in the 
 progress of doing so. Now that the time of my illness is 
 past, I may as well tell you that it was in serious contem- 
 plation with the doctor to send me home to England for 
 the restoration of my health. Some endeavoured to per- 
 suade me of the necessity of it ; however, I myself thought 
 that great care and regularity would effect every thing, and 
 I am consequently quite well again. 
 
 I am now more than eight hundred miles from Calcutta, 
 all modes of communication are immensely expensive, and 
 indeed, I may say, we are removed to another part of the 
 world ; you can form no conception of this country, it has 
 no society, every one is too much taken up with his own 
 little interests, to care much about others; but places 
 always changing the inhabitants cannot have any society, 
 to this Calcutta is the only exception in India. 
 
 It would be a source of the utmost happiness to me, in 
 having my own dear sisters near me, but I fear it might be 
 short lived, for a month or two hence I may be making 
 preparations for a march into a wilderness, my all packed 
 on the back of a camel, and not daring to cast a look 
 behind, with the feeling that we are to be in a manner shut 
 out from the world to live among savages, creatures bereft 
 of everything human, but the mere form of man ; the 
 married officers of course look at the prospect with proper 
 resignation, as for myself I like the idea of such a trip. 
 
 H 2 
 
100 
 
 We have had no active service as yet, and I naturally am 
 averse to remaining idle. 
 
 A roving people (called Belochees) are very troublesome 
 in cutting off detachments of our troops, and the 9th 
 regiment may be ordered to subdue them. I have no right 
 to claim the name of soldier yet ; I am such but in theory, 
 the best is practice. By the bye tell Mrs. Grady (who is 
 she ?) that now that I have a prospect of seeing the Hima- 
 lay's, I shall be able to procure, though not a living, a 
 stuffed turkey ; as to your allusion to marriage, I reply I 
 have seen enough to enable me to make a determination 
 not to commit myself; a subaltern cannot support an 
 establishment ; I am sure a married life with sufficiencies 
 is, in this country, preferable, but for a subaltern, situated 
 as he is, it must be occasionally actual misery and constant 
 anxiety ; now, if after this I should be found guilty, you 
 have full right to scold me : however, as I wish tomentare 
 sospetto, I must remind you that the little god is generally 
 so rapid in fixing with his arrows, little time is reserved 
 for reflection. 
 
 I have read Harriet's letter, and I think on its contents ; 
 still afflicted with lameness I had flattered myself with 
 her total recovery, but I still live in hopes. I will write 
 to her by the next Overland, in the interim will attend to 
 her wishes ; your strictures on loyalty I will digest, re- 
 marking that I am ever honest and true. I leave you, my 
 dearest Helen, to your own confidence in me, to believe 
 how deeply and how sincerely I can enter into and 
 reciprocate those ever to be cherished feelings expressed 
 in your last letter. I have seen the hollowness of those 
 around me, and my appreciation of it teaches me ever to 
 fix a steady regard upon those objects of affection, though 
 far distant, with this firm and buoyant conviction, that in 
 them / shall never be disappointed. Being the brother of 
 
101 
 
 such sisters is my proudest boast, my most elevated feeling ; 
 through them I learned to respect myself, through them I 
 have avoided running with the stream, and the thought of 
 them shall still keep me unchanged. 
 
 Mrs. M (L ) has left Bombay for England. 
 
 C is ill in Calcutta, he intends starting for Bombay 
 
 and thence for England ; Mrs. C accompanies him, 
 
 she cannot stay away from her daughter. I have heard 
 
 nothing of aunt F , I am in the way of hearing soon. 
 
 Powel T has obtained the adjutancy of his corps ; I 
 
 am not likely to meet with him. I believe I have no other 
 relations in this part of the word. I fancied there might 
 be a chance of William's getting his ensigncy, and accord- 
 ingly was all anxiety for the arrival of the May mail, but 
 I am disappointed ; however I do not anticipate seeing him 
 in the Gazette until the end of the year. A cadetship I 
 suppose is expected for Robert ; on his way out he should 
 endeavour to make himself master of the elements of the 
 Hindostany language ; should he not possess books of his 
 own, others on board ship would willingly lend him theirs. 
 In the Company's service an acquaintance with the lan- 
 guage is the ladder to every preferment ; it is absolutely 
 necessary to know a smattering of it to explain one's wants 
 and wishes ; but it is the strict duty of all officers who (as 
 in the Company's army) are in command of native soldiers, 
 to make themselve capable of explaining all orders. Should 
 either or both be coming out, they will meet with a steady 
 friend and adviser in Major Douglas, who is at present in 
 an official post in Calcutta. I earnestly caution them 
 against exposure to the sun at any time, the example of 
 others should not induce them. I have witnessed many 
 and many daily exposing themselves, but they have since 
 suffered for their fool-hardiness and temerity. You do not 
 
 mention a word of Mr. B . The governor mentioned 
 
 him briefly. There is a protege of his in the regiment 
 whom he has placed under my protection, and whom I 
 
102 
 
 hope to see soon promoted, as he is behaving himself well; 
 tell this to Mr. B . 
 
 We are likely to see great changes in the 9th regiment 
 ere long. Many of our higher officers are old, and perhaps 
 unfit for any arduous expedition, and, in consequence, are 
 aware of the necssity of returning to England. The 
 Identicals will leave Agra soon, with I believe the determi- 
 nation of selling out. I have no local accounts all here is 
 
 "hum drum" monotony. There is a Miss R here. 
 
 Did you know her ? She is a tall large person. 
 
 Your account of Father Mathew's doings is astonishing ; * 
 the bubble I suppose will burst after a time, and give rise 
 to something else, as has always been the case in poor dear 
 Ireland. Your castle balls resemble those given here. 
 Your account amused me much. I went to the Lieutenant 
 Governor's, (a person, in these provinces, resembling the 
 Lord Lieutenant of Ireland), a few days ago. It was but 
 a dinner and evening party ; and, as an exception, was the 
 most agreeable I have enjoyed since leaving England. Do 
 
 you hear or see nothing of E S ? I suppose you 
 
 are at daggers drawn it is indeed melancholy. I give you 
 no description of this country as yet, for if I had once 
 commenced, I should not have left room for anything else. 
 The season is approaching, when one can with safety view 
 the country around, and examine the extensive remains of 
 ancient splendour. Write to me by the Overland per 
 Falmouth it is less expensive on your side of the water, 
 and to me not expensive at all. I find it no hardship, but 
 a delight, in the payment, so write as often as you can, and 
 
 * Few of those who knew Ireland and its people well, were " imposed 
 upon by this novel movement. Temperance was the ostensible virtue, 
 said to be its object : But IT has been for above 2000 years, not only 
 recommended but required, as a duty, by Him, who knows all things; 
 and if His awful authority failed in its effect, what good could ensue 
 from a scheme, enforced by superstition, enslaving the human mind. 
 The real object did not, nor could not, escape those, who watched with 
 a steady, religious eye, the course of events." 
 
103 
 
 tell William I am not to be put off. I certainly expect at 
 least an answer from him. Robert also appears to have 
 forgotten that his brother James ever existed : he is a great 
 man now I suppose, but surely not too great to subscribe 
 his name to me. 
 
 A young gentleman here has been making polite en- 
 quiries about the Misses C 's. 
 
 It is Mr. O y, the boy of Boulogne now no longer 
 
 boy. He called upon me the other day. He has only 
 lately arrived in the country. 
 
 I am sorry you see nothing delightful in Ireland, and 
 shall be delighted to hear that you are enjoying the plea- 
 sures of the continent. I am sure it would benefit Harriet 
 much to take some trip, that would afford a pleasing occu- 
 pation to the mind. 
 
 I long to possess your portraits ; however, your last letter 
 forbids me to wish for them for some time to come. I 
 request Harriet not to write, if it causes her the least pain 
 or suffering. I shall be delighted to hear of her through 
 you, my dearest Helen, and I hope good reports from every 
 succeeding letter. Tell her the world is not always 
 deceived ; however, direct your letters, Agra, India. Love 
 to the governor and boys, and remember me to all who 
 cares anything about me. The truest affection to Harriet 
 and yourself, my dearest Helena, and 
 
 Believe me, ever and ever, your Brother, 
 J. S. GUMMING. 
 
 Agra, August 9th, 1840. Infidel Perplexity. I am 
 affrighted and confounded with that forlorn condition 
 in which I am placed by my philosophy. When I look 
 abroad, I foresee on every side dispute, contradiction, and 
 distraction. When I turn my eye inward, I find nothing 
 but doubt and ignorance. Where am I, or what? To 
 what cause do I owe my existence ? and to what condition 
 shall I return? I am confounded with these questions, 
 and begin to fancy myself in the most deplorable condition 
 
104 
 
 imaginable, environed with the deepest darkness. Treatise 
 of Human Nature, by David Hume. 
 
 Presume not in thy conquest over any particular moral 
 infirmity, lest, perchance, thou shouldest relapse under 
 some circumstance of severe trial, and subject thyself 
 to the well-merited scorn and derision of those who love to 
 keep a narrow watch on true actions. The consequence of 
 such a relapse, instead of humbling of natural pride, and 
 redoubling our future vigilance, is too apt to put a stop to 
 all endeavours, to sour our tempers, and to incline us 
 to murmur against the Divine Author of our existence. 
 
 As I was looking upon the various fate of the multitude 
 about me, I was suddenly alarmed with an admonition 
 from some unknown power. Gaze not idly upon others 
 when thou thyself art sinking. Whence is this thoughtless 
 tranquillity, when thou and they are equally endangered ? 
 I looked, and seeing the gulf of intemperance before me, 
 started and awoke. Voyage of Life, Johnson. 
 
 Agra. September 28th, 1840. 
 Better far to be 
 
 In utter darkness lying, 
 Than be blest with light, and see, 
 That light for ever flying. 
 
 Is doubtless very pretty poetry, but very poor phi- 
 losophy; for myself, and some glimpses of sunshine this 
 fair world has afforded me, fleeting and passing, enough, in 
 all conscience, and yet I am not so ungrateful as to repine 
 at my happiness, because it was not permanent, as I am 
 thankful for those bright hours of " Love's young dream," 
 which, if nothing more, are, at least delightful souvenirs ; 
 they form the golden thread in the tangled web of our 
 existence ever appearing amid the darker surface around, 
 and throwing a fair halo of brilliancy on what, without it, 
 were cold, bleak, and barren. No, no - 
 The light that lies 
 In woman's eyes 
 were twice as fleeting, as it is ten times more brilliant than 
 
105 
 
 the forked lightning, irradiates the dark gloom within us, 
 for many a long day after it has ceased to shine upon us ; as 
 in boyhood, it is the humanizing influence, that tempers 
 the fierce and unruly passions of our nature, so in man- 
 hood, it forms the goal to which all our better and 
 higher aspirations tend ; telling us there is something more 
 worthy than gold, and a more lofty pinnacle of ambition, 
 than the praise and envy of our fellow men ; and we may 
 rest assured that when this feeling dies within us, that all 
 the ideal of life dies with it, and nothing remains, save the 
 dull reality of our daily cares and occupations. Lorrequer. 
 Agra, October 8th, 1840. But alas! the delicate and 
 precious links of affection may be eaten away by gradual 
 corrosion, as well as violently sundered, and the rupture so 
 effected, may be equally complete. Oh ! remember this ; 
 take heed of this, all ye whose hearts are linked together 
 by the holy bonds of nature, love, or friendship ; we know 
 too well that offences will come, for it needed not the 
 demonstrative power of Fletcher of Madely, to prove that 
 we are all, nay, every living soul, of woman born, under 
 the ban and curse of fallen nature ; but woe unto those 
 who, presuming on their vested rights of affection, wilfully, 
 wantonly, or carelessly irritate the excitable temper, grieve 
 the tender, wound the sensitive, or try the forbearing 
 spirit ; woe to those who think it a light matter, provided 
 they fail not in weightier observances, to defraud the heart 
 that loves them of its minor dues, those small sweet cour- 
 tesies and tender allowances, and finer sympathies ; that 
 like the fairy maimomias magic threads, weave together a 
 train of holier, but as marvellous power. 
 
 It is not timber, lead, and stone, 
 
 The architect requires alone, 
 To finish a fine building ; 
 
 The palace were but half complete, 
 
 If he could possibly forget, 
 The carving and the gilding. 
 
106 
 
 And woe especially, and above all, to that love, that 
 friendship, that union, whatever it may be, from which 
 truth and confidence are excluded, or not maintained with 
 the whole soul, and given with the whole heart. Wilson. 
 
 Oh ! how true it is that when those we have adored are 
 gone, when those lips we have loved are sealed in silence, 
 and can no longer speak a pardon for our indiscretions or 
 omissions, we reproach ourselves with inattentions and 
 unkindnesses which, at the time, we then fancied them 
 committed, would perhaps have been matters of indifference 
 or even jest. November 21st, 1840. 
 December 2nd, 1840. 
 
 The camel through the dreary waste 
 
 Of Arab sands, with ready will, 
 Plods on in long enduring haste, 
 
 And bears his burden patient still. 
 Though gems and gold his load encloses, 
 
 Far o'er the gloomy desert borne, 
 Amidst the bed all filled with roses, 
 He asks no guerdon but a thorn. 
 Translation from a Persion Poet, Khodja Wessaud. 
 December 3rd, 1840. 
 
 The rock was bleak, and wild, and bare, 
 Where the sad pine-tree stood alone, 
 Rooted in dreamy slumber there, 
 
 A shroud of ice around him thrown. 
 He dreamt a stately palm arose, 
 Far in a distant eastern land, 
 Immur'd like him, amidst its snows, 
 Lone in the desert's burning sand. 
 Thus loved they, thus together pined, 
 
 Their sphere unlike, but like in mind, 
 And heart to heart may thus reply, 
 Joined by the power of sympathy. 
 
 Heine, Sympathy. 
 
107 
 
 December 19th, 1840. 
 
 My dear Harriet It is very long since I last wrote to 
 you, but I assure you I had intended to have done so 
 before this ; however, many were fearful of trusting to the 
 last two or three Overland mails, and would not dispatch 
 any letters I was one of the number. I believe we have 
 acted rightly, as the last Overland dispatched from this, 
 has not succeeded, I believe, in arriving at its destination ; 
 the last from England has been detained at Malta. How- 
 ever, rumour reports all disturbances to be subsiding, and 
 Mehemet Ali to be becoming less warlike every day, so 
 that I think I shall dispatch this under favourable auspices. 
 I have not expected a letter from you, I am sufficiently 
 content to hear of you ; I knew from Helena how ill you 
 had been, and ardently do I long to have it in my power 
 to offer you consolation. I am powerless, but I rejoice in 
 cherishing the thought that you possess that, in your own 
 self, which ever gives you comfort, and is ever ready to bear 
 you up under the extremest afflictions. 
 
 The 9th regiment is now at Meerut, again on the move, 
 and again settling down. The regiment has been sent here 
 with a view to its co-operating in a grand movement upon 
 the Capital of the Punjaub, should such be deemed necessary. 
 However, I think our services will not be required, and I 
 look forward with pleasure, to remaining two years or so 
 in Meerut; it is a delightful station, the best in India, 
 notwithstanding its great distance from Calcutta. We are 
 
 fortunate, I, perhaps more than any. Aunt M and 
 
 Cousin E are here, and I know and have learned to 
 
 like them ; the former is a very lady-like person, the latter 
 reminds me of my own dear sisters ; she is married to a 
 man much older than herself, he is, however, by no means 
 old I like him much. I had not been in this station half 
 
 an hour before I received a note from Mrs. F , begging 
 
 me to come and see them ; I did so, and have found friends 
 
108 
 
 and relations in those who had been hitherto strangers. 
 
 F has the best civil appointment in this place ; he 
 
 knew the C s, the T ts, the B s, indeed he has 
 
 lived so long in this place, twenty years, that he knows 
 every one. 
 
 Helena's last letter mentions your having returned to 
 Dublin. And so you utterly detest poor Ireland. Oh ! 
 you have become too refined for so savage a spot. How- 
 ever, no doubt you will find the polished Germany agree- 
 able to your taste. After your return, imbued with its 
 philosophy, and given to its theories, I fully expect from 
 you long metaphysical disquisitions ; one thing I shall most 
 desire to know, that you have reaped benefit from the 
 change. A portion of last Overland reached, from which 
 it appears that England is becoming more and more dis- 
 turbed. We isolated beings look out from time to time 
 with anxiety for some fresh intelligence. What a business 
 
 this of T 's is; what an unbearable character Lord 
 
 C must be. He is well known out here, and is de- 
 scribed as a vindictive, harsh man, though a good officer. 
 
 T , however, has long been in the habit of scribbling 
 
 in the journals ; he did so in this country, and a man that 
 does so, must sooner or later draw down retribution on his 
 
 own head. The Court-martial on Captain R interests 
 
 all out here, and we cannot but sympathize with him, in- 
 evitable as is the loss of his commission. Helena mentions 
 
 Miss J ; are you aware that her "faithless one," B , 
 
 has gone to Copenhagan to be married to a young lady. 
 He is likely to leave the regiment, of which I am glad, for 
 he certainly is no ornament to it. 
 
 Could William procure a commission now he would 
 insure very rapid promotion. I mean in the 9th regiment. 
 I have looked anxiously at the Gazettes, but as I am by 
 no means sanguine, I have not been disappointed. Why 
 does he not write ? Has he forgotten me ? Ah, you can 
 
109 
 
 
 little conceive how deeply I cherish the hope of seeing you 
 
 once again. 
 
 Where are all our dear considerate relations ? Chewing 
 the bitter cud of disappointment from their late defeat ! 
 Helena does not mention them. We have at last reached 
 a station in which there is much society ; it is consequently 
 very gay, and also involves the necessity of increased ex- 
 penses. Officers of regiments are called upon to be pro- 
 moters of gaiety ; each is required to lend assistance, and 
 none can refuse with any good grace ; the consequence is, 
 that in a station where two Queen's corps meet, a constant 
 succession of balls and parties takes place, which only ends 
 with the arrival of the hot winds. At the commencement 
 of this season, all those who can obtain leave of absence, 
 desert Meerut for the hills, where the climate is compara- 
 tively delightful. On a clear morning, I can see the hills 
 rising in the distance, their ridges covered with snow, 
 reflected by the rising sun, and plainly visible seventy 
 miles off. 
 
 I am longing to hear from you, and hope to receive 
 a letter as soon as the Overland passage is open. Should 
 
 you meet Captain M , of the Queen's 13th Light 
 
 Infantry an old friend you said of the governor's you 
 must recollect that he is soon about to start for India, and 
 cannot avoid seeing me on his way up to re-join his corps. 
 
 I suppose you are reconciled to Naas Castle, although a 
 ruin. I remember visiting the place before leaving Ireland, 
 and it then bore the appearance of a good house ; it may 
 then, however, have been in a dilapidated state. Describe 
 to me your trip to Tunbridge Wells; it is, I believe, 
 a delightful place, and very healthy. Poor Mrs. fi- 
 lms been very unfortunate. What is the cause of his 
 becoming a lunatic ? Has Mrs. B given up her en- 
 deavours in procuring a cadetship for one of the boys ? 
 Next Friday is Christmas-day, and may you spend it 
 
110 
 
 happily, is the wish of your brother, who often and often 
 recalls your memory, and has learnt what he has lost 
 in being cut off so long from you, perhaps never to return.* 
 
 To the joy of us all, we suddenly received an order 
 to march from Agra to Meerut, where we hope to remain : 
 however, so uncertain is the Government, we may yet 
 march into the Punjaub to conquer that country, and 
 possess the capital, with its mountains of wealth. The 
 papers will have told you how many conflicts the English 
 have already had in Affghanistan, and of the cruelties 
 imposed on many of our officers by those savages. All is 
 now subsiding, and I trust the 9th regiment will not be 
 required. 
 
 Ladies are increasing in number in the regiment : there 
 
 are now the two Misses McCl , and another young 
 
 lady. Much rivalry among us younger heroes, and, no 
 doubt, one or two are marked out as " Benedicts ; " how- 
 ever do not fear me, I am not of the number. I will give 
 you timely notice when my case is pending. By the bye, 
 I will come home and propose for my " tall Irish cousin," 
 and so set all the contending families smiling and smirking 
 at each other. 
 
 How are the boys ? What do you intend doing with 
 them ? Robert and Charles must have grown fine fellows 
 I hope they are all you wish. Tell Robert I will write to 
 him, but I hope he will not treat me so contemptuously as 
 William has done. I have not as yet met any of your 
 
 schoolfellows. One of Miss B 's brothers is here; I 
 
 do not know him. He has a sister married to a Mr. N , 
 
 in the civil service, whom I met on my way to Meerut. 
 
 Where Miss B , or rather Mrs. D 1, is at present, 
 
 I know not. 
 
 The weather at this time of the year is delightful ; 
 
 * Always prophetic, sadly prophetic. 
 
Ill 
 
 it lasts, however, but a short time, and the succeeding 
 weather is frightful. 
 
 I have no news but local news, and that would not 
 be interesting to you. This is the last day for despatch 
 by the Overland, and I say Adieu ! My affectionate love 
 to yourself and Helena, the governor and boys. I wish 
 them a many many happy Christmas-day and may no 
 long time elapse, before I am at home to enjoy it with 
 them. Write soon, and let me know what benefit your 
 health has received, for I am most anxious to know. 
 
 Believe me your most affectionate Brother, 
 
 Dec. 19th, 1840. JAMES SLATOR GUMMING. 
 
 January 23rd, 1841. 
 O'er the desert of life, where you vainly pursued, 
 
 Those phantoms of hope which their promise disown, 
 Have you ne'er met some spirit divinely endued, 
 
 That so kindly could say, "you dont suffer alone." 
 
 And however your fate may have smiled or have frowned, 
 Will she deign still to share as the friend and the wife, 
 
 Then make her the pulse of your heart, for you Ve found 
 The green spot that blooms o'er the desert of life. 
 
 Does she long to recall the past moments so dear, 
 
 When the sweet pledge of faith was confidingly given ; 
 
 When the lip spoke the voice of affection sincere, 
 And the vow was exchanged and recorded in heaven. 
 
 Does she wish to rebind what already was bound, 
 
 And draw closer the claim of the friend and the wife ? 
 
 Then make her the pulse of your heart, for you Ve found 
 " The green spot that blooms o'er the desert of life." 
 
 John Philpot Curran. 
 
Meerut, February 19th, 1841. 
 
 My dear Father I received yours, enclosed in one 
 from Helena, last month, but had not time to answer it, as 
 the Overland was on the point of starting. I am delighted 
 that affairs are at last settled so favourably. Had you not 
 been on the spot, all of us would have suffered ; and a debt 
 is owing to you, which nothing can repay. Remote from 
 the turmoil and strife in which you have been engaged, I 
 long for the time when I can participate in the peace and 
 comfort which, I earnestly flatter myself, will gradually 
 approach you. However, such a pleasing prospect is yet 
 far distant, and I must content myself with hearing of 
 
 your welfare. Mrs. F does not appear to have 
 
 any knowledge of transactions at home. I will tell her 
 how much she is indebted to you, and what she is to 
 
 expect from our affectionate cousin F . She told me 
 
 Ellen was at present staying with her sister, Mrs. "W , 
 
 and intended passing the summer with L F , 
 
 at Cambridge. 
 
 Mrs. F is a very simple minded person, quiet, and 
 
 unaffected. I like her very much. I know nothing of her 
 husband's family, or whom she married. Will you let me 
 know all about her, as it is awkward to be ignorant of 
 one's own relations. F holds the highest civil ap- 
 pointment here, and necessarily sees much company. I 
 have, therefore, only dined twice privately with him ; 
 though frequently, when there were assembled large par- 
 ties. Mrs. F told me she had been educated at Mrs. 
 
 Me 's. I should have judged so from her appearance 
 
 and manner, they are so very superior. They are gone to 
 " Agra," to pay a visit to the Lieutenant Governor of 
 these provinces: I shall see them frequently on their 
 
 return. F has been twenty-three years in the country, 
 
 and at the end of another year will be entiled to return to 
 England upon a salary of a thousand a year; he must, 
 
113 
 
 however, have saved a good deal, as his allowances have 
 always been good. They know nothing of England, and 
 will find themselves quite lost when they arrive in Europe ; 
 however, they have no intention of returning home just 
 yet. A writership is certainly one of the best appoint- 
 ments a young man sets out in life with his pay increases 
 with his years, and at the end of a certain time, he returns 
 home with a large fortune. I hope I am not chimerical in 
 supposing that the obtaining of such for William or 
 Robert is possible. I see all the great advantages attending 
 such a profession, and I state them to you, anticipating 
 the chance of so good a situation being some day offered 
 to one of the boys. By the bye, I must call them boys no 
 longer. I suppose I should be unable to recognize them, 
 they must be so changed from growth of person, and, 
 I hope, of ideas also. I wrote to William, but I must 
 take it for granted, he has forgotten me, as he does not 
 deign to notice me ; however, I am anxiously looking for 
 his name to appear in the Gazette. We have had two or 
 three vacancies lately in the regiment, and I am, therefore, 
 becoming more sanguine of Williams success. 
 
 We are settled for a short period at this place. At the 
 close of the rains, there is no doubt of our starting to the 
 direction of the north-west. We have heard of our suc- 
 cesses in that quarter, but I fear, as the " Duke of Wel- 
 lington " says, " all this is but le commencement de la fin" 
 
 The Punjaub is much disturbed, and will provide some 
 stirring employment for the 9th regiment before long : 
 though this is a large place, containing seven regiments, 
 there is little society. The evening is the only time of 
 recreation, at which time people issue from their houses to 
 the usual promenade, to enjoy a sight of each other. 
 Walking is not tolerated riding and driving is the custom ; 
 and woe to the man who has no horse or buggy ; he must 
 mope in the house from sunset to sunset, and wear away 
 
 i 
 
114 
 
 with ennui. This complaint is most prevalent in India, 
 and I do believe has killed more of its victims than any 
 disease. People in India no longer shew that hospitality 
 for which, twenty years ago, they were so famous. Self- 
 ishness has taken a strong hold upon the heart, and every- 
 thing is made subservient to the one aim of gathering 
 a sufficiency to return to, and live in comfort in England. 
 
 Since my illness my health has much improved ; the hot 
 weather exhausts the constitution, and the succeeding cold 
 only renders this climate bearable. We are so near the 
 hills, that should we remain here, I think I will take a trip 
 to them. We are anxiously expecting a brevet, as it will 
 give an important step in the regiment, which may lead to 
 two or three more, and so cause some promotion. 
 
 Have you accomplished an exchange of livings, about 
 which Helena mentioned you were negociating ? It will be 
 most convenient for "you, being so near the Naas property, 
 and within a few miles of Dublin. 
 
 I enclose you an order upon Cox and Co. for 25., 
 which I have saved ; and I hope that, although small, it 
 may be of some use. I will write soon again. The 
 Overland is just going. Give my most affectionate love to 
 my dear sisters, and to the boys, and 
 
 Believe me your most affectionate Son, 
 J. S. CUMMING. 
 
 April 15th, 1841. The virtues of others often serve as 
 a light to illumine our own mental darkness, and to incite 
 us to goodness. 
 
 Meerut, April 18, 1841. 
 
 My dear Harriet Repentance never comes too late, 
 and I intend that my acknowledged remissness shall banish 
 from your I know indulgent heart your just indig- 
 nation at my neglect. You are the same sister, whom 
 
115 
 
 1 left four long years ago. As I then often expe- 
 rienced your forgiveness, for which my gratitude, I fear, 
 was but scanty I know that in this instance I can plead 
 with every assurance of success. My remembrance, my 
 daily thoughts of you, of your happiness and welfare, are 
 as fresh as when I first learnt to feel the loss sustained in 
 parting from a sister. Distance draws together the bonds 
 of sympathy and affection ; and it is one of the greatest 
 blessings of man, to be able to picture, even in the midst 
 of bustle and turmoil, the images of those most dear 
 to him, and to sketch all their little enjoyments, in which 
 absence has denied him a participation. In such innocent 
 and consoling fancies I often indulge, and thus beguile 
 many many a happy moment. 
 
 The greatest delight I feel is, in contemplating the 
 period when I shall once more meet all your smiling faces, 
 and join in your fire-side happiness. The prospect is 
 distant, but ever before me : may it not prove delusive, 
 as the desert mirage, urging me to hopes and fears, which 
 are never to be fulfilled. Four long years of absence! 
 What a superannuated old creature shall I be ! I fancy I 
 can detect the insidious approaches of a yellow tint in my 
 Indian countenance ; and, I am in doubt, whether I ought 
 not to adopt the manners and habits of Qui-husm assume 
 a tone of complaint against England and English- and so 
 wed myself for life to the gorgeous land of the East. 
 Gorgeous it is, and unparalleled in deceit, in hypocrisy, and 
 in every wickedness under the sun. Might is right, and 
 stamps a thing, just or unjust; black is white white 
 is black ! truth and falsehood are one. At a moment's 
 notice, heads part company from shoulders man is de- 
 stroyed with the same indifference that is felt in crushing a 
 musquito. The wretched dependent drags on a life of 
 misery and terror ; subject to daily extortion, and ground 
 down to a state worse than the brute. This has been the 
 
 i 2 
 
116 
 
 case for ages, and fully accounts for the mean and despi- 
 cable character of the natives; 
 
 Right, and justice, and mercy, appear simultaneously 
 with English rule, and where that rule prevails, there the 
 galling chain of degradation is broken. 
 
 This place is the best station in the Bengal Presidency. 
 I fear, however, that we shall have "to go where glory 
 waits us." I am in a good house, too large for two modest 
 bachelors. (We have made an agreement, that he who first 
 embraces the happy state of " Benedict," turns out his 
 more unlucky brother). Officers' houses are built upon 
 pieces of ground, three hundred feet square, surrounded 
 by mud walls, seven feet high, (mud attracts the heat 
 of the sun less than brick or stone). This gives a dreary 
 appearance, and is very ugly, but it is for comfort. In 
 this small place a colony exists. My bearer, Hidmutgar, 
 water bearer, (or beest) groom, (or syce) grass cutter, and 
 two or three other servants, keep their wives and families 
 in small cabins near the house. Fancy my having eleven 
 servants, all absolutely necessary. From the prejudice of 
 these people, in their distinctions of what is called caste, 
 in the very hot weather I have two other additional ser- 
 vants to pull punkas, and throw water on the tatties. You 
 will smile in reading, that a single man should require 
 so large an establishment; it is necessary, although a 
 perfect nuisance. At dinner parties, each individual brings 
 his own servant, who stands behind his master's chair, 
 eagerly attentive to all his wants. At a dinner party, 
 consisting of twenty people, fancy the addition of twenty 
 black men, without shoes or stockings, and the thermo- 
 meter at ninety. 
 
 I am glad to hear of William's good fortune. Lord Hill 
 has been very kind. I suppose William is all impatience 
 to be off. The sooner he starts the better, as we are 
 all preparing to march in October next for the Punjaub, 
 
117 
 
 where, no doubt, there will be much fighting. He should 
 by no means go to Chatham. On arriving in India, he 
 knows to whom to apply, in order to be assisted and 
 guided in his griffinage. The Overland will arrive here in 
 two or three days, bringing, I hope, intelligence of his 
 promotion. He is entering a profession, in which a man 
 soon finds his level. Fine notions, good opinions of one's 
 self, self-will, are soon subject to every sarcasm and ridicule 
 that can be devised ; their unfortunate possessor finds him- 
 self the mark at which every pleasantry is directed; he 
 finds himself among a set, whose bond of society is mutual 
 forbearance and good feeling, and discovers that, to gain it 
 and have peace, an altered demeanor is necessary. In the 
 Punjaub, anarchy and confusion reign ; the inhabitants 
 are slaughtering and murdering each other ; there is no 
 safety for life or property. Preparations are making to 
 send an army of twenty thousand to that country. The 
 9th is marked as one for service, and you may be sure we 
 are full of anxiety to be off. Lahore, the capital, is the 
 richest city perhaps in India. It possesses the famous 
 " Lo-e-nor," the largest diamond in the world, and valued 
 at a million of money. Now, if Dame Fortune should in 
 her lottery portion it to me, recollect I promise it to you, 
 and then you may set Rothschild himself at defiance. By 
 the bye, I shall also take a trip to Cashmere, (but a short 
 distance), and give you a description of its valley, and of 
 the angels who inhabit it ; and, perhaps, when I tell them 
 of my angels of sisters at home, they may present to 
 me some of their exquisite shawls for their use. Tell 
 William he shall command the first forlorn hope; that 
 I have planned divers little expeditions for him ; and that 
 I have already made him (in theory) a hero. He must 
 confirm all this, however, by practice. The governor's 
 last letter gives a full account of everything concerning 
 you. I have not yet had an opportunity of telling F- 
 
120 
 
 places ; the same harsh features of country covered with 
 sand ; the same glowing heat ; the same close confinement 
 to the house ; the same constant struggle with discomfort 
 and uneasiness, which at times amounts to positive suffering. 
 The same faces meet you wherever you go ; you hear of 
 the luxuries of the East. Why any one of us would 
 willingly exchange all such for a single mutton chop and 
 pint of beer, in any chop-house in London. You will be 
 surprised to read, that we have ice in this hot climate 
 this is a luxury. In the cold season there is no frost, and 
 the ice is made by artificial means. Water is placed in 
 small earthenware platters, resting on straw, in order to 
 allow free circulation of air beneath. In the morning 
 these platters produce small pats of ice, which are imme- 
 diately collected, and put into deep pits. In this manner, 
 an immense quantity is reserved for the heat of the hot 
 season, when each inhabitant is supplied with any quantity 
 he may wish. 
 
 Thus the thermometer at 90, 95, or 100, we '11 have 
 cold water, cold wine, ices t jellies, &c. &c. &c. It is only 
 when the ground is impregnated with saltpetre that ice can 
 be produced. Another luxury, is that of doing nothing 
 yourself, and allowing your servants to do ever} T thmg. 
 The result of living a length of time in this country, is 
 the adoption of the customs and habits of the old Indians. 
 Apathy, and a want of energy, steals over the man ; intel- 
 lect and powers of exertion become weakened ; and there 
 are many instances, in which the European differs little 
 from the native, except in the skin ; however, this country 
 is an admirable school for teaching patience. It will 
 smooth down the most intractable. 
 
 My partner in house taking, joint stock, and company, 
 has only been out a year and a half, yet he has been very ill 
 from liver complaint, and has gone to the hills for six 
 months for his health. I am, therefore, alone, in a large 
 
121 
 
 house; however, in September, I intend getting leave of 
 absence for a month, and I will pay him a visit in the 
 Himalay mountains. By the bye, I must not forget to 
 
 procure a turkey for Mrs. G . Do you not recollect 
 
 asking me to do so ? I dined at the F 's yesterday ; I 
 
 like them the more I see them ; F particularly, he is 
 
 such an honest, sincere, sensible man. I live a long way 
 from them, and this hot weather prevents me seeing them 
 
 so often as I should wish. F when young, ran into 
 
 debt, and has for years been gradually freeing himself. 
 Whether he is now his own master or not I cannot say I 
 should think he is. He gave me a long description of 
 
 T 1 and family ; she must be an estimable woman, and 
 
 he an execrable man. The F 's and T t's did not 
 
 for some time acknowledge each other; however, when 
 
 Mr. T 1 arrived at Meerut with their regiment, Mrs. 
 
 F n wrote to them to forget all past discussions, and to 
 
 be again on speaking terms, which they accordingly agreed 
 to. There was no disagreement between the sisters 
 
 T 1 was the cause of all ; and though he behaved very 
 
 ill to his wife, she clung to him throughout, and showed 
 herself patient and affectionate. 
 
 Your account of your short fortnight of happiness with 
 
 your friends, the B 's, quite delighted me. I shall be 
 
 in anxious suspense until I hear something more decidedly 
 from you as to your plans. How did you first become ac- 
 quainted with the B 's? They must be very nice 
 
 people. 
 
 William is, of course, quite downcast at his ill luck; 
 however, there will be three or four vacancies in the 9th 
 regiment in a short time, and he may, perhaps, obtain one 
 of them. 
 
 What are you about Helena? I cannot bear to be 
 
 always addressing my letters to Miss H. C g some 
 
 more dignified term is necessary. I hope you will take the 
 
122 
 
 hint. I may, perhaps, follow your example. Ah ! there 
 are no stars in this gorgeous hemisphere bright or attractive 
 enough to enslave even so humble a suppliant as myself. I 
 await some more propitious day seven or eight years 
 hence, should I live so long a change may come o'er the 
 vision of my dream. Fancy paints to my view, one of my 
 own fascinating countrywomen, in my own fresh and lovely 
 land " Emerald Isle" and I leave you to finish the picture. 
 I am glad to think that Harriet is quite restored again. I 
 trust she will honor me with her notice. She must have 
 sympathy left for the poor exile. 
 
 Do you still correspond with Louisa M 1 ? * or has she 
 
 * In reference to this enquiry, as a proof of the enduring friendship 
 of these ladies when the sad accounts of the author's early fate ar- 
 rived in England, his sister was, -at the time, staying on a visit at the 
 barracks, at Deal, where the 6th regiment was then quartered, as will 
 appear from the following sad notes received by her father, from his 
 daughter Helena: 
 
 " Deal, June 20th, 1842. 
 
 " My dearest Papa I should have written before, but indeed indeed 
 I had not courage since the receipt of the intelligence of our irrepa- 
 rable loss ; and it reached me at the moment, when all here was in a 
 state of great anxiety on poor Mrs. Churchill's account. She had a 
 very severe attack, which confined her to bed, and after intense 
 suffering, terminated her existence on Sunday evening, the 12th. We 
 have all been in the deepest affliction, and thus sadly has terminated, 
 what to Louisa and me, was to have been a meeting of infinite pleasure 
 and happiness. It would be some consolation to have my dear bro- 
 ther's things any trifle would be of infinite value, at least to me, or 
 any particular relative to his fate ; and, where buried, I should like to 
 visit the spot; and yet I cannot even now believe that it is true. I 
 still hope there may have been some mistake it is so terrible that he 
 so young, so good, should be the only officer to have fallen. I have 
 just had a visit from Mr. Layard, of the 9th, which has given me pain- 
 ful and sad pleasure. He was staying at Ramsgate, and since the sad 
 news of poor James's fall has reached him, he has been making vain 
 enquiries in every quarter for your address, as he felt anxious to pay 
 the last tribute in his power, to one who (as he expresses himself) was 
 dear as a brother. They lived together for a long time at Meerut 
 everything was in common, as if brothers; and the grief he labours 
 
123 
 
 proved herself of that class, who deem friendship but 
 an empty sound ? I hope not ; but from what I have 
 heard, she must have passed through a fearful ordeal in 
 India. 
 
 You say nothing about Robert or John. I dare say 
 " Bob " is a very steady fellow. Tell him so famous a 
 player am I at chess, that with all his cleverness he could 
 not beat me. "Why does he not write ? 
 
 I cannot say whether the 9th will go into the Punjaub or 
 not. The people are very unsettled in that country, and 
 our Government are making preparations for a move after 
 the rains, that is in September next. With every wish for 
 your happiness, my dearest Helena, 
 
 Believe me your most dear and affectionate Brother, 
 
 With love to Harriet, the governor, and the boys, 
 J. S. GUMMING. 
 
 under, can alone be equalled by our own. He says he never had so 
 dear a friend ; he describes James as of a very sweet temper, cheerful, 
 and animated, but steady and quiet in his habits ; never entering into 
 the dissipated pursuits common to young men. He was in the habit of 
 reading the Bible every day, quite unusual among men. He was 
 beloved by all his brother officers, and better respected by them; for in 
 every dispute among the officers, he was peacemaker. He says he shall 
 never cease to regret him. He said, ' any other we could have spared 
 but him, though I knew no one so well prepared to go.' He was 
 anxious to accompany James in the campaign, and sent some of his 
 baggage on with him from Meerut, but the Medical Board declared him 
 unfit for service, He rode a day or two's march after the regiment, to 
 ' take leave of James/ and came home Overland, and arrived in Eng- 
 land in April. He is still in very delicate health, and the sad news had 
 a severe effect upon him, and came over here on Saturday, to see 
 an officer of the 6th, who came home with him; and while talking of 
 Indian war, Mr. Layard observed he had lost his dearest friend J. 
 Gumming. Mr. Finley then said ' Strange ! his sister is now here on 
 a visit with the Colonel's lady.' Mr. L. immediately requested to be 
 introduced to the Colonel when he wished for permission to visit and 
 see me who fixed to-day, when he came. He is about James's age, and 
 seems to know us all well, and begged me to let him know when you 
 arrived in town, as he should go up to see you. He staid a long time, 
 
June 18th, 1841. Creatures of imitation and sympathy 
 as we are, we look around us for support and countenance, 
 even in our virtues. We recur for them most securely 
 to the example of the dead. There is a degree of insecu- 
 rity and uncertainty about living worth the stamp has not 
 yet been put upon it, which precludes all change, and seals 
 it up as a just object of admiration for future times. 
 There is no service, which a man of commanding intellect 
 can render his fellow creatures, better than that of leaving 
 behind him an unspotted example ; if he does not confer 
 upon them this benefit if he leaves a character dark with 
 vices in the sight of God, but dazzling with shining quali- 
 ties in the sight of man, it may be, that his other services 
 had better have been forborne, and he had passed inactive, 
 and unnoticed through life. 
 
 and I need not tell you how painful was the interview. Oh ! this 
 saddest and most real affliction makes all on earth appear trivial in 
 comparison. It must ever be a painfully agonizing subject to us all ; 
 and I most earnestly entreat of you, my dearest papa, not to give way 
 to grief without hope. Our beloved James has found a soldier's 
 grave ; and though early too early taken there are many alleviating 
 circumstances attending his death; and though I feel how incompetent 
 and vain all consolation must be, I pray God to give us all strength and 
 patience under the sad trial. I know well that 1 am not the only one 
 who has sustained a severe loss on this occasion. You have lost an 
 excellent son one who did honor alike to his family and profession, 
 and to the name of Christian. Yet I cannot find the consolation that 
 others hold out to me. The very knowledge of his being good and 
 excellent as a man and a soldier, increases the natural regret of a sister; 
 and while I feel a satisfaction in hearing of his excellence, I also mourn 
 that he should be so early removed; nor do I see any wrong in so 
 doing. Our Saviour wept over the remains of his earthly friend, and 
 next to grief for the dead, should be attention to those who survive, 
 and should be the objects of our love and tenderness. Louisa desires 
 to be kindly remembered to you, and 
 
 Believe me to be your ever affectionate Daughter, 
 
 HELENA." 
 
125 
 
 The true Christian liveth not for himself, and dieth not 
 for himself; and it is thus, in one respect, that he dieth 
 not for himself. Norton. 
 
 June 20th, 1841. Rains set in on this day. On the 7th 
 of this month, in the year 1837 ; just four years, one week, 
 and six days ago I put foot in this country. 
 
 June 22nd, 1841, Tuesday. The great agents of change 
 in the world may be divided into two principal classes 
 the aqueous and the igneous. To the aqueous belong 
 rivers, torrents, springs, currents, and tides ; to the igneous 
 volcanoes and earthquakes. Both these classes are instru- 
 ments of the Deity, as well as of re-production ; but they 
 may also be regarded as antagonist forces ; for the aqueous 
 agents are incessantly labouring to reduce the inequalities 
 of the earth's surface to a level, while the igneous are 
 equally active in restoring the unevenness of the external 
 crust, partly by heaping up new matter in certain localities, 
 and jointly by depressing one portion, and forcing out 
 another of the earth's envelopes. LyeVs Geology, Book I, 
 page 259. 
 
 CONCLUDING LINES OF THE PLEASURES OF HOPE. 
 
 Inspiring thought of rapture, yet to be, 
 
 The tears of love were hopeless but for thee ; 
 
 If in that frame no deathless spirit dwells, 
 
 If that faint mourner be the last farewell 
 
 If fate unite the faithful but to part, 
 
 Why is their memory sacred to the heart ? 
 
 Why does the brother of my childhood seem, 
 
 Restored awhile in every pleasing dream ! 
 
 Why do I joy the lonely spot to view, 
 
 By artless friendship bless'd when life was new ? 
 
 Eternal hope ! when yonder spheres sublime, 
 
 Pealed their first notes to sound the march of time. 
 
June 18th, 1841. Creatures of imitation and sympathy 
 as we are, we look around us for support and countenance, 
 even in our virtues. We recur for them most securely 
 to the example of the dead. There is a degree of insecu- 
 rity and uncertainty about living worth the stamp has not 
 yet been put upon it, which precludes all change, and seals 
 it up as a just object of admiration for future times. 
 There is no service, which a man of commanding intellect 
 can render his fellow creatures, better than that of leaving 
 behind him an unspotted example ; if he does not confer 
 upon them this benefit if he leaves a character dark with 
 vices in the sight of God, but dazzling with shining quali- 
 ties in the sight of man, it may be, that his other services 
 had better have been forborne, and he had passed inactive, 
 and unnoticed through life. 
 
 and 1 need not tell you how painful was the interview. Oh! this 
 saddest and most real affliction makes all on earth appear trivial m 
 comparison. It must ever be a painfully agonizing subject to us all ; 
 and I most earnestly entreat of you, my dearest papa, not to give way 
 to grief without hope. Our beloved James has found a soldier's 
 grave ; and though early too early taken there are many alleviating 
 circumstances attending his death; and though I feel how incompetent 
 and vain all consolation must be, I pray God to give us all strength and 
 patience under the sad trial. I know well that I am not the only one 
 who has sustained a severe loss on this occasion. You have lost an 
 excellent son one who did honor alike to his family and profession, 
 and to the name of Christian. Yet I cannot find the consolation that 
 others hold out to me. The very knowledge of his being good and 
 excellent as a man and a soldier, increases the natural regret of a sister; 
 and while I feel a satisfaction in hearing of his excellence, I also mourn 
 that he should be so early removed; nor do I see any wrong in so 
 doing. Our Saviour wept over the remains of his earthly friend, and 
 next to grief for the dead, should be attention to those who survive, 
 and should be the objects of our love and tenderness. Louisa desires 
 to be kindly remembered to you, and 
 
 Believe me to be your ever affectionate Daughter, 
 
 HELENA." 
 
125 
 
 The true Christian liveth not for himself, and dieth not 
 for himself; and it is thus, in one respect, that he dieth 
 not for himself. Norton. 
 
 June 20th, 1841. Rains set in on this day. On the 7th 
 of this month, in the year 1837 ; just four years, one week, 
 and six days ago I put foot in this country. 
 
 June 22nd, 1841, Tuesday. The great agents of change 
 in the world may be divided into two principal classes 
 the aqueous and the igneous. To the aqueous belong 
 rivers, torrents, springs, currents, and tides ; to the igneous 
 volcanoes and earthquakes. Both these classes are instru- 
 ments of the Deity, as well as of re-production ; but they 
 may also be regarded as antagonist forces ; for the aqueous 
 agents are incessantly labouring to reduce the inequalities 
 of the earth's surface to a level, while the igneous are 
 equally active in restoring the unevenness of the external 
 crust, partly by heaping up new matter in certain localities, 
 and jointly by depressing one portion, and forcing out 
 another of the earth's envelopes. LyeVs Geology, Book I, 
 page 259. 
 
 CONCLUDING LINES OF THE PLEASURES OF HOPE. 
 
 Inspiring thought of rapture, yet to be, 
 
 The tears of love were hopeless but for thee ; 
 
 If in that frame no deathless spirit dwells, 
 
 If that faint mourner be the last farewell 
 
 If fate unite the faithful but to part, 
 
 Why is their memory sacred to the heart ? 
 
 Why does the brother of my childhood seem, 
 
 Restored awhile in every pleasing dream ! 
 
 Why do I joy the lonely spot to view, 
 
 By artless friendship bless'd when life was new ? 
 
 Eternal hope ! when yonder spheres sublime, 
 
 Pealed their first notes to sound the march of time. 
 
126 
 
 Thy joyous youth began, but not to fade, 
 When all the sister planets were decayed ; 
 When rapt in fire, the realms of other glow, 
 And Heaven's last thunder shakes the world below ; 
 Thou, undismayed, shall o'er the ruins smile, 
 And light thy torch at Nature's funeral pile. 
 
 Music is an instrument and gift of God, yet it does not 
 belong to the highest order of blessings which are granted 
 to necessity, and amongst which we count our daily bread, 
 the word of God, and the like. 
 
 It may be classed with the fragrant flowers and delicious 
 fruits that surround us. We cannot call it a gift of pa- 
 ternal providence, but rather of the bounteous kindness of 
 Jehovah a gift that shall serve to glorify his name, and to 
 adorn and enliven our temporal existence ; it is the uni- 
 versal and intelligible language of the heart. It weaves a 
 robe for the softest sentiments, the subtile existence of 
 which would perish under the weight of words ; it breathes 
 ethereal loveliness upon the tenderest emotions of the 
 soul, the tones bear the same relations to words as to puri- 
 fied bodies which shall arise from the tombs of the saints 
 on the last day, when the trumpet shall sound to the hut 
 of clay which we now inhabit. Music is the most wonder- 
 ful, profound, and impressive of all the arts. Where its 
 harmonious sound is heard, it proves itself not unfrequently 
 the uncontrolable ruler of the heart it penetrates with 
 magic influence into the deepest recesses of the heart 
 with the rapidity of lightning it imparts to the mind what- 
 ever sensations it pleases, and prompted by its almost 
 miraculous breath, the buds of feeling expand, and, even 
 like those of flowers which are opened by the warm ex- 
 halations of spring, it awakens the passions which slumber 
 within us, and soothes them when developed, it opens in 
 an instant the fountains of our hearts, and fills us with 
 
127 
 
 unutterable anguish, and then it suddenly ravishes us with 
 exulting joy, and bears us aloft on the chainless wings of 
 inspiration. Therefore it is a dangerous art when used in 
 the service of vanity and sin ; it is impossible to describe 
 what mischief it can cause, and to what a fearful out-blaze 
 it can fan the dark flame of carnal passions. But when it 
 is employed in its original calling, and dedicates its solemn 
 harmonies in simplicity and purity to the praise of the 
 Lord, or celebrates the works of his hands, the beautiful 
 objects of nature, and gives utterance and expression to 
 the nobler feelings of the human heart, how much assist- 
 ance does it not aiford of the adorning and ennobling of this 
 life, and how much that is pleasant, good, and heavenly 
 does it not weave into our existence. 
 
 Music, (says Luther, the spirited panegyrist of the 
 elevated art), is one of the best and most glorious gifts of 
 God, for driving away temptations and evil thoughts ; it 
 chases away the spirit of melancholy, as we see in the case 
 of Saul ; and is a soothing cordial to calm, to refresh, and 
 to strengthen the heart. Elisha, by the Rev. F. W. Krum- 
 macher, D. D. 
 
 Meerut, June 26th, 1841, Friday. Received orders from 
 Major-General Sir Robert Arbuthnot to hold ourselves in 
 readiness to start immediately to Cabul, with a view to 
 distant service beyond the Indus. 
 
 The Kohistanes and Kuzzilbashees had risen en masse, 
 and had attacked, simultaneously, our troops in the City 
 of Cabul, and in the cantonments adjoining. The attack 
 proved unsuccessful, though attended with loss on both 
 sides. Sir A. Burnes, and brother, three officers of the 
 44th regiment, and four or five of native corps were killed. 
 In the confusion, Colonel Shelton, with a company of the 
 44th, made a rush, and gained the Bala Hissar, (a fort in 
 the centre of the city), in which he secured himself. The 
 whole country is up in arms. The passes are closed, and 
 
128 
 
 the enemy appear to have determined on a steady resistance. 
 These transactions took place on the 2nd of November. 
 The 9th, Queen's, 3rd Buffs, Queen's, 19th N. I., the first 
 from Meerut, the two latter from Carnaul, start about the 
 same time ; all destined for service in Cabul. 
 
 Two regiments N. I. which started from Ferozepore on 
 the 25th of November, are now making forced marches, 
 (thirty-six marches in eighteen days), in order to reach 
 Peshewar with all possible dispatch. Rumours are in- 
 creasing daily. Expresses constantly passing down to 
 Lord Auckland. Officers and men of the 9th in high 
 spirits. 
 
 July 3rd, 1841. Wherein lies the grand difference be- 
 tween Protestant and Popish belief Protestants rely on 
 the bible only, Papists on their own devices. To the 
 twenty-two books of the Old Testament, they add those 
 that are apocryphal; to a heaven and a hell, they add purga- 
 tory ; to the remission of sins by the merits of Christ, they 
 add the merits of Saints / to the worship of God, they add 
 the worship of Saints, of Virgins, and of Angels ; to the 
 mediation of Christ, they add the mediation of the Virgin, 
 Saints, and Angels ; to our Lord's real spiritual presence 
 in the Eucharist, they add his corporeal presence by "tran- 
 substantiation ;" in communion of saints, they add invoca- 
 tion of them ; they add supremacy of Pope over all Priests 
 and Bishops ; to the three creeds, they add a fourth, the 
 creed of Pope "Pius" the fourth; they adore the conse- 
 crated bread at the Lord's supper ; they worship images, 
 (first sanctioned in the Nuedero Nicene Council, in the 
 year 787). 
 
 July 4th, 1841, Sunday. There is one blessed sign 
 which never deceives, let them to whom it is given rejoice, 
 and cast away all their cares ; but let none deceive them- 
 selves. This sign is not for every one. Is gold or wealth 
 this sign ? No, in truth ! Is it honor and renown ? these 
 
129 
 
 were possessed by the bay-tree spoken of in the " Psalms," 
 but after a short time it stood withered by the way-side. 
 Is it understanding and genius ? Understanding cannot 
 avert trouble, death, and the judgments of God's wrath. 
 Does this sign consist of distinctions derived from services 
 rendered to society ? I tell you that these merits can avail 
 you nothing in the sight of Him who is able to destroy 
 both body and soul in hell. Is not rectitude of conduct 
 then the sign? It is not. Where the holiness of God 
 sits on in judgment; nor is even Christian knowledge the 
 sign. Judas possessed it, and destruction hung at his heels. 
 The sign that we mean, the glorious sign, is of an entirely 
 different nature it is that which is spoken of in Psalm 86, 
 verse 17, " Show me token for good." It belongs not to 
 the outward, but to the inward man ; yet one may behold 
 it glimmering through him no one bears it, it is his na- 
 ture ; it must be bestowed upon him by grace. This sign, 
 in the first place, is a wound. A wound? Yes, and of 
 the heart. It is the result of self-knowledge, a wound 
 that no herb, no balm, gathered from the fields of this 
 earth can heal. The publican had this sign when he smote 
 his breast ; the thief had it when he said, " Lord remember 
 me ;" Mary Magdalene had it when she washed the feet of 
 her master with her tears. Whoever has prospered in time 
 and eternity has had it; and those who have had it have 
 been prosperous, though we may not have seen their pros- 
 perity. Is the wound then the consciousness of sin ? Yes, 
 it is, the deep heart-rending feeling, that we are con- 
 demned in ourselves, and unworthy in the sight of God 
 is the wound I mean. An apparently unimportant sign, 
 but nevertheless a sign of unspeakable worth a sign little 
 esteemed by the world, but the only one that intimates 
 salvation. The word of God is witness. Yet the wound 
 does not constitute the entire sign ; something else is com- 
 bined with it : that which the Lord commanded to be 
 
130 
 
 imprinted on the foreheads of the people for their de- 
 liverance. " Set a mark upon them," says He to the angel 
 the last letter of the Hebrew alphabet upon their fore- 
 heads. But this letter had the form of a cross, as may 
 still be observed in the Greek and Latin T, which was 
 framed from it. Therefore you know the true meaning of 
 this sign. It is a cross, not painted upon the lip, not 
 formed of word, nor pictured by the fancy no, it is en- 
 graved and brandished indelibly on the heart and vitals by 
 the Holy Ghost ; so that a man may consider the cross of 
 Christ as the dearest and most glorious object which he 
 beholds in the horizon of heaven and earth, and that his 
 inmost love springs forth from this bloody tree, and twines 
 closely round it ; so that he suspends his whole hope and 
 salvation on this single nail, and must confess with Paul, 
 " I will know nothing but Christ and him crucified." 
 Where these two are combined together, the wound and 
 the cross, the poor sinner and faith in the Lamb, the broken 
 heart which relies exultingly on the sacrifice there is the 
 good sign, but there alone and no where else. It does not 
 glitter like the golden chain, the star, or the princely mark 
 of honor ; but how will the lustre of these signs wear away 
 before it ? It is not higly valued in this world, nor does it 
 confer any title in society ; but the angels of God behold 
 this sign, and joyfully stand still and respectfully salute 
 him who possesses it, and consider themselves bound to 
 serve him. 
 
 Thanks be to God some amongst us are adorned with 
 this sign in the heart, though the mantle of frailty may 
 envelop it. 
 
 The sign confirms their nobility, and verifies their adop- 
 tion. They need not ask after any other propitious token. 
 This single one, the wound and the cross, is certainly 
 sufficient to cause them prosperity in time and eternity. 
 
 July 23rd, 1841, Friday. If you are conscious that you 
 
131 
 
 are naturally rough and austere that disappointments 
 have soured, or prosperity elated you or that habits of 
 command have rendered you quick in expression, and im- 
 patient of contradiction or if, from whatever other cause, 
 you have contracted an unhappy peevishness of temper, or 
 asperity of manners, or harshness and severity of language 
 remember that these defects are by no means incompatible 
 with an aptness to perform services of a substantial kind- 
 ness. Remember that the Divine Agency is promised " to 
 take away the heart of stone, and give a heart of flesh," of 
 which it is the natural property to be tender and susceptible. 
 Pray then earnestly and perseveringly that the blessed aid 
 of Divine Grace may operate effectually in your behalf. 
 Beware of acquiescing in the evil tempers which have been 
 condemned, under the idea that they are the ordinary im- 
 perfections of the best men that they show themselves in 
 little instances that they are occasional, hasty and tran- 
 sient effusions, when you are taken off your guard; the 
 passing shade of your mind, and not the settled color. 
 Wilberforces Practical Christianity. 
 
 July 28th, 1841, Wednesday. Despite Gibbon's asser- 
 tions to the contrary, there is much truth in the common 
 place remark, that our school days are the happiest of our 
 lives. At no other period is the capacity of enjoyment so 
 much on the alert within us, or the material drawn from so 
 many resources. With manhood comes a consciousness of 
 responsibility, deepening as years steal on us; regulating 
 our feelings by the square and rule of discretion, and 
 qualifying the pleasure of to-day by the thought of to- 
 morrow. But, in boyhood, there is no such drawback 
 upon happiness ; impulse prompts us to unleavened enjoy- 
 ment. We have no past to regret, 110 future to distrust. 
 The present is all in all with us ; and if we ever venture to 
 look beyond, it is with the eye of hope, who spreads before 
 us a prospect steeped in the hues of Paradise. Then the 
 
friendships which we form at this sunny unreflecting season ! 
 How disinterested their character! how enthusiastic the 
 spirit that suggests them ! They seem entwined with our 
 very heart strings. But, alas ! they are new impulses ; 
 generous, but short lived that fade and become extinct, 
 as experience draws on the mind. Engaged in after years 
 too much with ourselves, to bestow a thought on others, 
 our attention is solely occupied in bustling through the 
 crowd, that everywhere checks our progress. Though we 
 see the friend of our youth pressed and trodden down be- 
 neath our feet, we gaze with indifference at the sight 
 perhaps, at that moment, a recollection of past times dims 
 our eyes. But the CROWD thickens the troubles and 
 hazard of interference increase. So we just cast a cautious 
 glance about us, sigh out " poor fellow," and then pass on, 
 leaving the object of our early love to perish or escape, as 
 may happen such is Human Nature. 
 
 October 10th, 1841. Prosperity and adversity have 
 equally the effect upon an inferior mind and heart, of 
 generating selfishness the one encourages it, the other 
 forces it. Misery is apt to think its own sufferings greater 
 than those of any one else; and naturally, the eye, as 
 it were, is filled with the object distress and danger that 
 is nearest, that is in such fearful contiguity, obscuring from 
 view all remoter objects ; at once scaring away presence of 
 mind, and centering its hopes and fears on self. Not so, 
 however, is it, when a noble nature is the sufferer ; and 
 more especially when that nature is strengthened and 
 brightened by the support and consolation derived from 
 philosophy, and, above all, religion. To a strong spirit, 
 destitute of such assistance, alas ! how often under similar 
 circumstances, have come ghastly visitants " despair and 
 madness" with their hideous attendant suicide to do 
 their bidding ; but a Christian will pass through the most 
 fearful storms with an unexpected calmness and sense of 
 
133 
 
 security. What would have become of the three youths 
 cast into the burning fiery furnace, but for the presence of 
 the fourth awful being, the sight of whom, confounded 
 and affrighted Nebuchadnezzar ? but, accompanied by 
 whom, his intended victims walked unhurt and undismayed 
 amidst the furnace, heated one seven times more than it was 
 wont to be heated. Though a spectacle so terrible and 
 sublime is not now vouchsafed to mankind, the memorial of 
 it is designed to have the like effect. The endearing and 
 inspiriting lessons of Christianity may be learnt by all who 
 will. One who has this faith, hears amidst perplexity and 
 danger a voice before him, bidding him to run with 
 patience the race that is set before him ; and he knows that 
 in due time he will reach the goal. Animated by thoughts 
 such as these, he need not have resort to such secondary 
 sources of consolation, as the comparison of his own with 
 the greater sufferings of others. It is enough for him 
 that his Master wills him to endure, and unto the end ; and 
 while thinking this, he feels fresh vigour infused into his 
 fainting frame. 
 
 Colonel Gardiner's Excuse for not fighting a Duel, 
 
 when Captain of Dragoons. 
 
 What ! you are afraid then ? yes, you are quite right 
 I am afraid to sin but not to fight. 
 My country claims my service, but no law, 
 Bids me in folly's cause my sword to draw. 
 I fear not man, nor devil, but, though odd, 
 I 'm not ashamed to own I fear my God. 
 
 Meerut, October 18th, 1841. 
 
 My dear Helen There has been a long interval in our 
 correspondence. This has been partly occasioned by a 
 trip I made to the Himalaya Mountains, from whence one 
 
134 
 
 could not well write. On my return, I found awaiting me 
 two letters yours, and the governor's. I hope the period 
 of your rustication in the " Black North " has, ere this, 
 come to a close ; particularly as you are not patriotic 
 enough in believing your countrymen, " the finest peasantry 
 in the world." It would be to the interest of all members 
 of the family, to reserve and secure the Naas property ,* 
 but, under existing circumstances, that is impossible ; at 
 all events, you all know better than I, what is most to your 
 benefit ; yet recollect, the land always remains mere money 
 soon vanishes and is gone. 
 
 It is a matter of some concern, that neither of the boys 
 are on their way out, as in a few months, in the event 
 of their arrival, I should not be in a situation to receive 
 them, and for three or four years perhaps, not even to see 
 them. In all probability the regiment will start soon for 
 Affghanistan, where we are sure to remain the above long 
 period ; however, they have already a sure friend in Cal- 
 cutta, Major Douglas, who will be on the spot. 
 
 Affairs in this country are becoming very dark ; a sus- 
 picious stillness pervades the vast extent of India; but 
 war ! war ! is in every mouth. Preparations are made for 
 coming events, and we are now waiting in suspense for the 
 cold season. I can only say I, individually, am braced up 
 for any contre temps, from the north, south, east, or west. 
 I am a Nemuck- Wallah ! and pledged to go where I may 
 be called. By the bye, I see in the Limerick Chronicle, 
 that the Rev. P. M. Gumming, of Monaghan, voted for 
 O'Connell, at the last Dublin election. Is not this a mis- 
 take 7 , or it must be some one else of the same name. 
 Pray enlighten me on this point, because my father was a 
 high tory, which term, O'Connell has exhausted a long and 
 disreputable life in abusing and villifying. I, the other 
 day, read a speech a howl of this mans and I pictured 
 in my mind, a fiend defeated in his machinations, and, in 
 
135 
 
 the agony of his feelings, furiously giving loose to the 
 blackest passions of his nature. Oh ! that a man can have 
 lived so many years, a " spectacle of scorn " to the world, 
 and a self-deceiver, is indeed lamentable ; a practical illus- 
 tration of the saying, (justified by many), " Do evil, that 
 good may come." In a long life, honesty and virtue are 
 proved by words and actions ; and the highest and never- 
 failing Authority has recorded, " By their fruits ye shall 
 know them" How much mischief shall he be the au- 
 thor of? 
 
 And now, dearest sister, for something, and of a strain 
 more pleasant. On the 1st of September I started for the 
 Himalayas. The two first days I rode, drove, and was 
 carried, one hundred miles, to the base of the mountains, 
 and, on the third day, I was seven thousand feet above the 
 arid plains of Hindostan. 
 
 The beauty of the Himalayas consists in their awful 
 grandeur and vastness. You are lost and sunk into your 
 own littleness at the view. Mountain succeeds mountain ; 
 till the snowy range, towering far above the rest, affords a 
 most magnificent sight. I ascended to a point eleven 
 thousand feet high, from whence t had a beautiful 
 prospect. I stood on the banks of the far-famed Jumna 
 here a noisy stream. Here I saw the Ganges flowing in a 
 narrow and humble channel. My own native land was 
 brought home to my heart, in every tree, in every flower I 
 beheld ; and, for the first time, I saw the cedar of Lebanon 
 growing in all its beauty. The party consisted of three 
 myself and two brother officers, with twenty followers. 
 We proceeded by narrow paths round the sides of stupen- 
 dous mountains, down deep ravines, over torrents thunder- 
 ing to the bottom. As every opening view burst upon us, 
 our pleasure and delight increased. Often did I wish that 
 Harriet was present, to luxuriate in these scenes. I was 
 the cause of an unpleasant accident, which happened to a 
 
poor woman. At the sight of Europeans, the natives here 
 generally run away; and, one morning, having with my 
 servant, gone in advance of my party, 1 came to the banks 
 of a broad and noisy stream, and sat down. A woman, 
 however, saw me, and, notwithstanding the assurances of 
 my servants, ran off as fast as she could into the jungle 
 (which was very thick) where not one hundred yards from 
 me, though out of sight, she suddenly found herself in the 
 embraces of a bear, who also was on an errant of flight. 
 The bear was too hurried to give her more than a squeeze, 
 though a rough one, and left her behind in a sad state. 
 The noise of the stream kept me in ignorance of what was 
 going on so near. Next day the poor woman was shown to 
 us, and we acted as her doctors, to the best of our power. 
 These people place great reliance on our medicinal know- 
 ledge, and think that we are able to perform any cure. We 
 are all on the alert, most anxious to know who are to direct 
 for the future the interests of the country, whig or tory 
 more properly, liberal or conservative. The election of a 
 black man a nigger and one remarkable for his want of 
 attainments, has set the white population of India into an 
 uproar, and justly. It is an act that stamps disgrace upon 
 England. Dyce Sombre lived much in Meerut a few years 
 ago, and then was considered a poor, mean spirited fellow. 
 But behold, to our shame ! what sordid mammon can effect 
 in degenerate England. I am glad to hear of Robert's in- 
 dustry and attention to his studies. I must write to him. 
 I hope he will not imitate William's cavalier treatment of 
 me. Tell William to treasure up all his stores of patience 
 he will require such a rare commodity in the army. 
 Long years of hope deferred juniors purchasing over his 
 head they progressing upwards, he remaining stationary, 
 and other annoyances, are the trials a poor subaltern has to 
 undergo. I am as yet no example of this, for I have been 
 fortunate ; but in the 9th, I have seen three old lieutenants, 
 

 137 
 
 one of sixty, and two of forty years men that were not 
 born, when these entered the army, have passed over their 
 heads; but yet the finest prof ession is the army. I find time 
 is up Overland just on the point of starting. So good- 
 bye. Love to Harriet and yourself, to the governor, and 
 the boys, and Believe me, my dearest Sister, 
 
 Your most affectionate Brother, 
 J. S. GUMMING. 
 
 November 30th, Tuesday. Rumours: Our troops at 
 Cabul are said to have defeated the Kohistanees, and to 
 have recovered two guns, captured it appears by the enemy. 
 
 The various movements of troops are made at the requi- 
 sition and on the responsibility of Mr. Clarke, (Resident 
 at Lahore). " Sale" is well off at Jellalabad. General 
 Avitabili having sent him eighty thousand rounds of amu- 
 nition. The Passes are usually shut up by snow until 
 April ; thus, the regiments starting from Meerut and Kur- 
 nal, on arriving at Peshawar, will have to delay there, and 
 can effect nothing at least before April. 
 
 How to take an elevation above the sea by the thermome- 
 t er% Immerse your thermometer in water, which must be 
 kept boiling on a brisk fire ; leave it for some time to let 
 the mercury find its level, and then observe the highest 
 point it has risen to. On the present occasion it rose to 
 193|, which deducted from 212, the boiling point at the 
 level of the sea, leaves a difference of 18J, and the product 
 which is eleven thousand two hundred and ninety feet, was 
 our present elevation, which multiply by 620 feet, the dif- 
 ference for each degree, and the product as seen above. 
 
1 38 
 
 Started on Wednesday morning, the 1st of December. 
 Saldhama our first halting ground. Rain poured down 
 until day light, so that it was late when the regiment set 
 out ; the road was very bad. At this place are a palace 
 and large church belonging to Dyce Sombre, (a member of 
 the British Parliament). I was actually gothic enough to 
 neglect visiting them; however, I was prevented by the 
 dinner being unusually late. Next day, Thursday, the 
 clouds had cleared away, and the air, during our march, 
 felt most refreshing. At this place nothing of interest. 
 We crossed a broad stream while walking in the evening. 
 L ; d rode up on his pony. The medical board oblige 
 him to go home, notwithstanding his anxious wish to 
 accompany us. Friday a delightful march ; road bad. 
 
 December 4th, Saturday. L d parted from us this 
 
 morning, on his way in search of health in Europe. May 
 he find it ! though he is his own enemy. The Buffs are 
 ordered to stand still at Kurnaul ; this, I suppose, because 
 they are so weak. The country, up to this point, is unin- 
 teresting very flat chains of trees here and there, and 
 very highly cultivated. I observe the people are clothed 
 better, and more with regard to warmth, than the in- 
 habitants lower down the country. 
 
 Halted at Shamli. This is a walled town, though now 
 falling into ruins, In the morning walked to see the canal, 
 the only public work performed by the company since the 
 commencement of their rule in India. What blindness to 
 their own interests. This canal is intended for irrigation 
 alone, and from the lowness of the bridges over it, renders 
 it unfit for navigation. It is shaded on both sides by long 
 rows of trees. We halted here Sunday. 
 
 Monday A long march full sixteen miles ; road bad ; 
 air cold, and every appearance of rain. Just received an 
 invitation from the Buffs to dine with them on the evening 
 of our arrival in Kurnaul, 
 
139 
 
 Many complaints are made of the miseries of life, and 
 indeed it must be confessed, that we are subject to calami- 
 ties by which the good and bad, the diligent and slothful, 
 the vigilant and heedless, are equally afflicted. But, surely, 
 though with some indulgence to groans extorted by inevi- 
 table misery, no man has a right to repine at evils, which, 
 against warning, against experience, he deliberately and 
 leisurely brings upon his own head ; or to consider himself 
 debarred from happiness by such obstacles as resolution 
 may break, or dexterity may put aside Rambler. 
 
 December 7th, Tuesday. Started at half-past six o'clock. 
 Crossed the Jumna on a bridge of boats. The river here, 
 when confined to its actual bed, is narrow, but the extent 
 of sand, from bank to bank, is great. Received an invita- 
 tation from the 3rd Light Dragoons; accepted it for 
 Thursday. Additional news from Cabul : Our troops again 
 attacked at Cabul by the enemy, who were repulsed. Sale 
 very well off, and in high spirits. 
 
 December 8th, 1841, Wednesday. Started at seven 
 o'clock. Arrived at Kurnaul; aspect of the place very 
 unfavorable ; swamps around the cantonments. Entrance 
 to the town very filthy smell bad. Officers of all the 
 corps in the place came out to see us. Dined with the 
 3rd Buffs in a large tent; nothing particular. Met a 
 clergyman a fellow passenger in the vessel from the Cape 
 of Good Hope Rev. Mr. Brookes. He did not recognise 
 me at first so greatly was I changed in the course of 
 four years ; however, old recollections soon refreshed his 
 memory. 
 
 December 9th, Thursday. Halted this day to change 
 carriage. A scarcity of every kind one camel only to 
 each subaltern. 
 
 Dost Mahomed's encampment within five hundred yards 
 of ours. No officer allowed to visit him without an order 
 from the General. Government seems uncertain what to 
 do with him. 
 
140 
 
 December 10th, Friday. Marched out of Kurnaul at 
 six o'clock for Leilak-Heree. 33rd N. I. marched into 
 Kurnaul as our rear guard was leaving. The towns, as we 
 go upwards, all are enclosed by walls not calculated to re- 
 sist artillery. 
 
 Items paid to pay-master B h, to the credit of Lieu- 
 tenant L d, on the 8th and 9th of December, 1841 : 
 
 John, bearer for his father ... 30 
 
 Due from B n 6 
 
 Gumming, for Cox and Co. . . 6 
 
 Young B h, for sundries . . 10 
 
 F r, for holsters 5 
 
 Gumming, for share of pall . . 10 
 
 67 
 
 Wrote a note to L d 9th of December. 
 
 December llth, Saturday. Started for Thamesir at six 
 o'clock. Encamped near a walled town ten or twelve of 
 us set off after dinner to visit this place. The only thing 
 of interest was a very large tank, across which ran a long 
 bridge. In this tank are sacred fish. 
 
 Sunday, 12th. Regiment started for Shahabad at six 
 o'clock. I was officer of rear guard, and had an unpleasant 
 duty to perform. About the first tap of the drum an 
 alarm was given that a soldier had fallen into a well. The 
 guard cut two of the best ropes and ran to give assistance ; 
 too late however. On reaching the well they could neither 
 see or hear anything. I received orders to remain behind, 
 in order to find and bury the body if possible. Having 
 procured the necessary assistance from the town, we com- 
 menced our attempt. A. native, holding by a rope well 
 secured by the soldiers, descended the sides of the well. 
 Nothing appeared above water except a cap ; however, the 
 native suddenly disappeared below the surface of the water, 
 and after the lapse of a few seconds, rose with the body of 
 
141 
 
 a man. A rope was let down to him, with which he tied 
 the legs, and the men above immediately drew it out. The 
 body was that of Serjeant Ryan ; he had been on the sick 
 list, and it appears was proceeding from the hospital tent 
 to the elephant, where he missed his footing and toppled 
 over. His cloak being on- him at the time, must have 
 rendered him perfectly helpless. He was not even bruised ; 
 having dug a grave, we wrapped him in his cloak, and laid 
 him in it, without a prayer, without a stone. Poor fel- 
 low ! he has left a wife and four children. I did not leave 
 the ground till nine o'clock, and it was nearly one ere I 
 reached our encampment. I fear I have not spent the 
 sabbath as I ought. But do thou, oh merciful Father, of 
 thy great goodness, vouchsafe to an erring creature thy 
 forgiveness.* 
 
 Monday, 13th. Halted this day. Went with B n 
 
 through the town to examine the fort. Can no longer be 
 called by that name, (like most we have seen up here), the 
 natives having occupied every spot with their mud huts, 
 stables and dunghills. The only things worthy of remark 
 are the door ways and windows. In some of the houses 
 they are most tastefully and minutely carved, and form a 
 surprising contrast to the dirty, paltry looking mansion in 
 which they are placed. In looking through these door- 
 ways I have often beheld cows and donkeys in quiet pos- 
 session of the space within. 
 
 Tuesday, 14th. Started at seven o'clock for Rote- 
 Kuchwar. Nothing very interesting. 
 
 Wednesday, 1 5th. Started at seven o'clock for Umballah. 
 This is a very nice town. It has the cleanest and neatest 
 bazaar I have ever seen in India. To see a clean town in 
 India is so rare a sight that I must not forget this place. 
 A regiment of irregular horse are stationed here. They 
 
 * Oh ! how beautiful. 
 
are a fine set of men, of independent spirits, and take a 
 pride in the efficiency and order of their corps. Each man 
 is allowed twelve rupees a month, out of which he provides 
 both for himself and his horse. They are considered far 
 superior to the native regular cavalry. 
 
 Here I received letters from L d and F r. 
 
 Umhalla, December 15th, 
 My dear Father I must write you a few hurried lines 
 to apprize you of my destination. My regiment started 
 on the first of this month from Meerut, its final destination 
 Cabul. At a distance of one thousand miles, at the mo- 
 ment that Lord Palmerston was expatiating on the tran- 
 quillity and submission of the population of Affghanistan, 
 the flame of rebellion was ready to break forth over the 
 land. It has broken forth, and the whole country is up in 
 arms ; so sudden is the exigency of affairs that we were on 
 our road five days after the order was received. 
 
 A desperate attempt was made on our troops at Cabul, 
 but the enemy were at last beaten off. A great number 
 of our officers were massacred, and a rising man, Sir Alex- 
 ander Burns, murdered. Many of our detachments have 
 been cut to pieces in the Passes leading from the Punjaub 
 to Cabul. Our regiments have had desperate fighting. 
 We have no longer the puny Hindoo to contend against. 
 
 A little war, it has proved, as the Duke of Wellington 
 prophetically remarked, " Le commencement de la fin" We 
 have all to do over again, at an enormous expense. British 
 bravery and endurance will eventually overcome all obsta- 
 cles ; but at an immense cost of life. The warfare is of a 
 more trying and harassing kind than any before experi- 
 enced in this country. Every eminence, every crag shelters 
 an enemy. Such a warfare is calculated to try, to its ut- 
 most stretch, the fortitude of man. We are all in the 
 highest spirits, delighted at the prospect of actual service. 
 
143 
 
 The regiment is most efficient, both in officers and men. 
 After three years suspense our wishes are about to be 
 fulfilled. 
 
 I doubt not my next letter will communicate descriptions 
 of a new people, a new country, and new scenes. We first 
 march to Ferozepore, (on the Sutlej), there form part of a 
 brigade, and then move on through the Punjaub to Pesha- 
 war. I will manage to send you a newspaper, that you 
 may have some idea of affairs in this country. I took leave 
 
 of my aunt. My cousin, Mrs. F o, had gone to Agra, 
 
 on a visit to the Lieutenant- Governor. She made me 
 promise to write to her from time to time, which I intend 
 doing. There are few post-offices in this part of the 
 country, so I have taken this opportunity to say that I am 
 in health and spirits, to send my love to Harriet, Helena, 
 and the boys. I am going to a country where one has 
 often to wait for months the receipt of letters. At present 
 all communication is cut off. 
 
 Believe me my dear Father, though in haste, still and ever, 
 Your most affectionate Son, 
 
 JAMES S. GUMMING. 
 
 Thursday, 16th. Moved out of Umballa at a quarter 
 past six a long march of nearly fourteen miles to Rag- 
 pore ; all the towns up here are walled forts close to them. 
 I visited this evening a serai, now deserted, but once the 
 great resting place of many a wearied traveller. It has 
 ramparts, with strong gates, and is loop-holed, showing 
 that even these places were once formed for defence ; even 
 those works still remaining of the former rulers of this 
 country are fast disappearing such must be the results of 
 a spread of European manners and customs. 
 
 Friday. Started at seven for our next halting place, 
 Patarsee. Nothing of any note here. 
 
1.44 
 
 Saturday, December 18th. Reached Sirhind ; this was 
 once a flourishing city, now a paltry village ; bricks strew 
 the ground in all directions, and ruins of buildings may be 
 seen here and there. The Sikhs took this place and 
 destroyed it in the year 1712. 
 
 Sunday Evening. I traversed the ruins of this once 
 famous city ; its extent is indeed immense. Not a perfect 
 building remains standing ; here and there are to be seen 
 broken arches, cupolas, tombs, gateways, all evidently of a 
 most massive construction. These, however, are scattered 
 sparingly, and in mere fragments. In half a mile there 
 were no less than ten or twelve wells melancholy evi- 
 dences of the once populousness of this now dreary waste. 
 There is nothing but the sterile plant, which grows at 
 intervals among the deeply buried bricks. The desolation 
 around is complete ; silence, disturbed only by the scream 
 of the jackall, reigns over this solitude. How awful the 
 destruction ! when this wealthy and nourishing city, with 
 its thousands and ten thousands of souls, was swept from 
 its foundations scattered into one wild desolate waste. 
 
 Monday, 20th, 1841. Our halting place this day was 
 Kunka-ke-Serai. Nothing worth noting here a paltry 
 village. 
 
 Tuesday 21st. Started at six o'clock on a long march 
 of fourteen miles ; reached our encampment at a quarter 
 past ten o'clock, halting three times. The men march very 
 
 well ; none fall out. B n and I make a point of rising 
 
 from our beds about an hour before traps, in order to gain a 
 good start for our camels, and we thus manage to have our 
 traps up at a reasonable time ; indeed, our tents are gene- 
 rally ready ere breakfast is finished. This has been my 
 practice for four successive marches, and has proved most 
 comfortable. On our arrival this morning, we found Elm- 
 hirst awaiting us, (aid-de-camp to Sir E. Williams). He 
 has resigned his appointment, and has come to join with 
 
145 
 
 the intention of partaking of the glory of an AfFghan cam- 
 paign. It threatens a stormy night (now ten minutes past 
 seven) thunder and lightning in the south-west. 
 
 There is here a large serai ; also a large well, of great 
 depth. A long flight of steps leads down to the water's 
 edge. There are four chambers, two above, two below, 
 which appear to be meant for habitations ; however, now they 
 are deserted and falling into ruins. This well was doubt- 
 less built by some wealthy prince, to supply the wants 
 of the hundreds of travellers, who, in former times, put up 
 at the neighbouring serai. 
 
 Wednesday, 22nd. Started at six o'clock ; reached 
 Loodianah at half-past ten o'clock. This station stands on 
 a rising ground, and is very healthy. The country below 
 stretches into a sandy plain as far as the eye can reach, and 
 nothing intervenes to relieve the monotony of the view, 
 except indeed (and it is indeed a grand exception), the 
 snowy range of the Himalayas towering in majestic gran- 
 deur. They are to be seen along the whole line of our 
 march, and lie to the north-east. The Sutlej flows within 
 five miles of this place, and affords a plentiful supply of 
 good fish. 
 
 The cantonments contain two native corps and a troop 
 of artillery. Though the country around offers but a sorry 
 appearance, still I should like this place as a station. A 
 cold wind over this table land, cooling the air and counter- 
 acting the power of the sun. It reminded me of a March 
 day in dear old England* 
 
 The inhabitants of this part of the country appear differ- 
 ent in the form of the countenance ; they possess longer 
 features, and more robust persons. There is a mixture of 
 the Kashmeer, Sikh and Hindostany stocks; and though 
 an air of comparative manliness is apparent, yet they are 
 not improved in cleanliness or decency. 
 
146 
 
 Thursday, 23rd. Halted at this place. Every necessary 
 can be procured here, particularly warm clothing. 
 
 Friday. Our next halting place was Humber, ten and 
 a half miles from Loodianah. The day was very cold a 
 strong hoar frost on the ground. , These provinces are 
 much colder than Bengal, or even Meerut and Kurnaul. 
 This is the first appearance of decided hoar frost I wit- 
 nessed in India. The thermometer, in tent, in the morning 
 at seven o'clock, generally stands at 41 or 42. The road 
 leads over gentle undulations, and now and then through 
 sandy spots. A small stream, a branch of the Sutlej, runs 
 parallel nearly the whole distance. The Sutlej flows five 
 or six miles to the north. 
 
 Saturday. Started at half-past six for Sidham. The 
 road good, now and then deep with sand. This is pro- 
 tected Sikh territory. 
 
 Sunday. General McCaskill, on account of the halt at 
 Loodianah, determined not to halt on Sunday, so we 
 marched to Indgurah. Yesterday was Christmas-day, and 
 all made the most of it on such an occasion. 
 
 Received a portion of the Overland to-day. Lord Ellen- 
 borough governor-general of India ; Lord F. Somerset of 
 Madras. The former will have an arduous task in rectify- 
 ing the present disordered state of Indian affairs. The 
 Queen has not been confined yet. 
 
 Monday, 27th. Nothing. 
 
 Tuesday, 28th. Nothing. 
 
 Wednesday, 29th. News of Bertin's having been pro- 
 moted to his company, vice Ker, (instead of Thompson of 
 the 26th, who was appointed by the Commander-in-chief,) 
 was received yesterday. Taylor was also promoted to the 
 lieutenancy, and Serjeant-Major Burden to the ensigncy, 
 (the latter the first appointment of the kind in this regiment). 
 Three of our officers just joined Vigors, McCloud, 
 
147 
 
 and Dent. I have just returned from putting out a fire 
 which was spreading over the country through the dry 
 grass. This is a fine sight in this country. 
 
 Thursday, 30th. Marched in to Ferozepore. This is a 
 new station, about six miles from the Sutlej. It was 
 marked out three years ago. The houses are built of 
 Kucha-brick. In the rains the whole place is inundated 
 not a solitary tree in cantonments ; however, as a beginning, 
 young plants are growing along both sides of the course. 
 A long time will elapse ere any improvement can be 
 effected. 
 
 ROUTE from KURNAUL to FEROZEPORE, from Friday, the 10th of 
 December up to 30th December, 1841. 
 
 Decem- 
 ber. 
 
 Nos. 
 
 STAGES. 
 
 Miles. 
 
 Furlongs 
 
 Yards. 
 
 10th 
 
 l 
 
 Leelokheree 
 
 11 
 
 
 
 3 
 
 llth 
 
 2 
 
 Shanesur 
 
 12 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 12th 
 
 3 
 
 Shahabad 
 
 14 
 
 3 
 
 
 
 14th 
 
 4 
 
 Kot-Kuch-Wa 
 
 8 
 
 o 
 
 2 
 
 15th 
 
 5 
 
 Umballa 
 
 8 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 ifith 
 
 6 
 
 
 13 
 
 6 
 
 
 
 17th 
 
 7 
 
 Patorsee . . . 
 
 8 
 
 4 
 
 
 
 18th 
 
 8 
 
 Surhind 
 
 9 
 
 
 
 
 
 onth 
 
 q 
 
 Kun-Ka-Ke-Serai 
 
 11 
 
 o 
 
 
 
 21st 
 
 10 
 
 D our a- Ka- Serai 
 
 14 
 
 
 
 
 
 22nd 
 
 11 
 
 Loodianah 
 
 14 
 
 
 
 
 
 24th 
 
 12 
 
 Humber 
 
 10 
 
 4 
 
 
 
 25th 
 
 43 
 
 Sidham Aliwal * 
 
 13 
 
 
 
 
 
 26th 
 
 14 
 
 Indgurah 
 
 19 
 
 
 
 
 
 2/th 
 
 15 
 
 Julwonndee, now Buhar, near 
 Kote est Khan 
 
 11 
 
 6 
 
 
 
 28th 
 
 16 
 
 Man-Sing- Walba 
 
 12 
 
 4 
 
 
 
 2Qth 
 
 17 
 
 Kool 
 
 12 
 
 2 
 
 
 
 30th 
 
 18 
 
 Ferozepore 
 
 9 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Miles 
 
 202 
 
 6 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 * Here Sir Henry G. Smith, K. C.B., gained a signal victory over the Sikhs, 
 on the 29th January, 1846; the 16th Lancers broke through their squares. 
 
 L 2 
 
148 
 
 FROM KURNAUL to FEROZEPORE, December, 1841, according 
 to HOUGH.* 
 
 Dec. 
 
 No. 
 
 STAGES. 
 
 Miles. 
 
 urlongs 
 
 Yds. 
 
 REMARKS. 
 
 10 
 
 I 
 
 Leelokheree 
 
 11 
 
 
 
 
 
 Road good ; plenty 
 
 ]1 
 
 2 
 
 Shanesur. . ... 
 
 12 
 
 4 
 
 
 
 of water. 
 Ditto ditto 
 
 12 
 14 
 
 15 
 
 3 
 4 
 
 5 
 
 Shahabad 
 ot-Kuchwa .... 
 
 Umballa 
 
 14 
 
 8 
 
 9 
 
 2 
 
 
 4 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Ditto Stage Bun- 
 galore 
 Cross the Humber, 
 leaving Shahabad 
 large town, plenty 
 of supplies. 
 Water, three miles 
 
 16 
 
 6 
 
 Raghore 
 
 13 
 
 
 
 
 
 from Umballa. 
 Cross Ruggur, a 
 
 17 
 
 7 
 
 Patorsee 
 
 8 
 
 4 
 
 
 
 river, two feet and 
 a half deep bad 
 fords for guns. 
 Road good, water. 
 
 18 
 
 8 
 
 
 9 
 
 
 
 
 
 Ditto ditto. 
 
 20 
 21 
 22 
 
 9 
 10 
 11 
 
 Kun-Ka-Ke-Serai 
 Doura-Ke-Serai . . 
 
 11 
 14 
 14 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Ditto ditto. 
 Ditto ditto. 
 Large town. 
 
 24 
 
 12 
 
 Ghouspoor 
 
 10 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 25 
 
 13 
 
 Bondree 
 
 7 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 96 
 
 14 
 
 Tehara 
 
 11 
 
 
 
 
 
 Sikh territory, 
 
 27 
 28 
 
 15 
 16 
 
 Dhurmiikote .... 
 Theerah 
 
 10 
 15 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Aliwall. 
 Ditto, Kurnack- 
 Sing. 
 Ditto, Shere-Sing. 
 
 29 
 
 17 
 
 Mallewallah. . . . 
 
 12 
 
 o 
 
 
 
 
 30 
 
 18 
 
 
 16 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Miles .... 
 
 205 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 January 4th, 1842. Remained at Ferozepore five days 
 in consequence of the Sikh Government having delayed in 
 sending the usual permission to enter their country. It 
 arrived yesterday, and we started this morning at nine 
 o'clock, and halted on the right bank of the Sutlej, at a 
 distance of about eight miles from Ferozepore. The bri- 
 
 * The route pursued by the regiment appears shorter by nearly three miles 
 than that pointed out by Hough. 
 
149 
 
 gade is composed of Her Majesty's 9th Regiment, three 
 guns, 10th Cavalry, 26th Regiment N. I., and two Rissalas 
 of irregular horse about three thousand men in all. There 
 is also a company of the 60th N. L, attended by a number 
 of officers, proceeding to join their respective corps in 
 Afghanistan. All our officers and recruits joined us on 
 the 2nd of January, Sunday, and the strength of the regi- 
 ment at starting is, officers 35, men 866. 
 
 Pollock is on his way from Agra, with the intention of 
 taking command of all the troops at Jellalabad. 
 
 Our troops at Cabul are in a very precarious situation, 
 completely isolated by the surrounding snow, and con- 
 stantly attacked by determined enemies. 
 
 Major McLarren's brigade, endeavouring to make its way 
 from Candahar to Cabul, was compelled to return. The 
 Passes on the Jellalabad side are all closed up, and com- 
 munication cut off. It is rumoured that our troops in and 
 about Cabul have surrendered. This last, though little 
 worthy of credit, shows how deplorable our affairs are in 
 this quarter. The expense incurred for conveying our 
 baggage, &c. &c. from Ferozepore to Jellalabad is very 
 great ; each camel, thirty -two rupees, paid in advance. 
 
 January 5th. Encamped this day to the west of Kus- 
 soor. A large detachment of the 44th and 13th, under 
 Major Johnson of the former corps, joined us late last night. 
 
 The following, viz., is the disposition in camp : On the 
 right, six guns and 10th Cavalry ; 9th in the centre. On 
 the left, detachments of the 44th, &c. &c. and 26th N. I. 
 We march with Europeans in front, 10th Cavalry second, 
 26th N. I. third, and guns in rear. The road is jungly, 
 but good. The weather, for the last two days, cloudy. 
 The ruins of Kussoor are spread over a large extent of 
 ground, and to a great depth. There is a small native fort 
 here mounting about four pieces, which are very small. 
 
 January 8th, 1842. Gungatee; this day the regiment 
 
150 
 
 all lost their way, and wandered in different directions. 
 However, the country being covered with low jungle 
 afforded an extended view, and the mistake was of no great 
 consequence. 
 
 General Pollock joined the brigade this day. He does 
 not take command, but merely accompanies us until we 
 reach Peshawur. 
 
 January 9th. We halted to-day some way below the 
 town (Choony) marked in the route, on the banks of the 
 Rahee. The 26th went over, this day, to Surruckpoor, a 
 distance of eight miles from the right bank of the river. 
 They received no orders to go so far, and were thus sepa- 
 rated two days from the rest of the brigade. Part of the 
 10th Cavalry's baggage went over also, and proceeded to the 
 proper encampment, about three miles from the right bank. 
 
 January 10th, Monday. In the morning one hundred 
 men of the 9th proceeded to the river, and were employed 
 till one o'clock in dragging the guns into the boats. About 
 this hour the whole regiment arrived. The right wing was 
 immediately sent across to unload the boats on the right 
 bank. The left wing remained to load them on the left. 
 The quantity of baggage of every kind was enormous, and 
 it appeared impossible to pass them over before night. 
 However, Europeans, not natives, were at work, and every 
 thing was transported across by half-past four o'clock. 
 
 The 9th passed over, and the guns, ammunition, com- 
 missariat stores, some of the 10th Cavalry horses, &c. &c., 
 without any assistance. At half-past four o'clock the 
 officers dined in a tent which had been erected on the right 
 bank, after which the regiment started for a place three 
 miles distant, which it reached at a quarter-past seven at 
 night. The 10th Cavalry had proceeded us in the morning. 
 Their horses, ridden mostly by naked Syces, crossed at what 
 was called the ford. The sight was very fine. Some horses 
 would plunge at once from the bank, leaping as they went 
 
151 
 
 forward in the water with the greatest glee, others would 
 refuse the water, swinging round and rearing perpendicu- 
 larly, yet without unhorsing their naked riders. Some, on 
 getting into the water, would struggle desperately, (in one 
 or two cases throwing the Syces, who, however, skilfully 
 managed to mount again), and regardless of the rein, force 
 their way back again up the bank. In two instances, two 
 horses were with difficulty saved from drowning in their 
 struggles; they got into deep water, and the Syces, in their 
 efforts to stick, tightened the reins, and disabled the horses 
 from swimming. They were at last thrown off, but the 
 horses were so exhausted as to be incapable of further 
 efforts, and would have been drowned had not the spec- 
 tators on the bank caught the bridles and held their heads 
 above water. Though the officers of the 10th cavalry were 
 on the spot, they took no active part in the proceedings, and 
 from the part played by them, as a body, on this occasion, 
 I should place no confidence in their future exertions. 
 
 This, though called a ford, is nothing of the kind, as all 
 the horses were obliged to swim, and could not cross with- 
 out doing so. 
 
 January llth, Tuesday. Marched to Surruckpoor this 
 day, a distance of six miles ; here we rejoined the 26th N. I. 
 
 January 15th, 1842, Saturday. Marched to Shabool 
 this day. Our hour of starting is now fixed at six o'clock. 
 No baggage is allowed to proceed over night for fear of 
 plundering on the part of the natives. Our mess baggage 
 starts each morning with the 10th Cavalry, which precedes 
 the brigade by an hour, and reaches the next halting ground 
 so as to prepare breakfast with as little delay as possible. 
 Yesterday and to-day the accounts from Cabul have been 
 gloomy, but far from desponding. 
 
 Our Envoy is murdered. He went to a conference with 
 the native chiefs, and on entering their tent was shot dead 
 by the son of Dost Mahomed. The account went on to 
 
say that the troops were to leave Cabul next day, with the 
 intention of falling back upon Jellalabad. They expected 
 to have to undergo great privations, particularly from the 
 intense cold. 
 
 Up to this place this country has not fulfilled the ex- 
 pectations which I had been led to form of its extensive 
 cultivation; it displays one continued plain, generally 
 covered with byr-jungle. In the vicinity of villages this 
 monotonous prospect is somewhat relieved by tracts of land 
 cleared and laid out in cultivation. On this morning's 
 march we came in sight of mountains stretching to the 
 N. E., and which I fancy are the lower range of the Cash- 
 meer, the valley being situated just beyond them. They 
 are covered with snow almost to their base. 
 
 January 19th, 1842, Wednesday. Reached this day 
 Parreewalla, a small village, about eight miles from the right 
 bank of the Chenaub. On the 17th we marched from 
 Nyewalla to the left bank of the river, about three miles 
 beyond Rummuggur. This is a large town. Warm 
 clothing for servants and horses procurable here. We also 
 passed, on our route, another large town, by name Akalee- 
 gurgh. The inhabitants of this place, called Akales, are a 
 peculiar class of people, and are held in great dread and 
 estimation by the Punjaubs. They used to form Runjeet 
 Sing's body-guard, and led on his soldiers into battle, care^ 
 less of their own lives. They receive a plentiful supply of 
 artificial, in the shape of Bang ; they paid no tribute to 
 government, an anomaly in any country, but such is the 
 force of superstition. They hooted at some of our men 
 as they passed along the road. Akaleegurgh is about four 
 miles from Rummuggur. Just without the walls of the 
 latter place I witnessed the first evidence of an arbitrary 
 government: On the road-side, hanging from a tree, was 
 a man, almost entire, who apparently could not have en-, 
 joyed that situation longer than two days^ 
 
153 
 
 From hence to the left bank the road is through heavy 
 sand, what, in fact, constitutes the river Chenaub in the 
 rainy season. 
 
 Of the brigade, the 10th Cavalry stopped short at Rum- 
 muggur, and were to cross two days afterwards, on the 
 19th, and then proceed to Pareewalla. The 26th and 60th 
 Companies N. I. passed over at once to the right bank and 
 encamped. The next day the 9th and Artillery passed 
 over. The river was much deeper than had been antici- 
 pated, in consequence of the snow having melted on the 
 hills. From hence are seen the Affghan, or salt hills, to- 
 wards the north-west, and the Cashmeer mountains, covered 
 with snow, towards the north-east. The country produces 
 the following crops: wheat, barley, mustard, sugar-cane, 
 cotton, flax. 
 
 Friday, 21st, 1842. Started from Deengee at six o'clock, 
 and arrived at Koar at eleven o'clock; the distance full 
 sixteen miles. Yesterday's march exhibited no great 
 change in the country, except that our near approach to 
 hills was evident. To-day, the first four miles ran through 
 dank jungle ; the next two, through cultivated ground in 
 the vicinity of villages, after which the country assumed a 
 different aspect. A succession of sandy beds crossed the 
 roads, (hill torrents in the rains), after which, ridges -of 
 hills, covered in all directions with water-worn pebbles. 
 From the highest hill is afforded a most extensive view of 
 the Punjaub, to the south ; the course of the Chenaub, at 
 the distance of thirty miles, could be traced. The whole 
 face of the country looked as smooth as a bowling-green, 
 without the slightest apparent undulation. On surmount- 
 ing this ridge to the north side, there appears a striking 
 contrast in the prospect below lies a narrow valley, inter- 
 sected by a small stream or mullah, beyond which, in the 
 distance, another low ridge of hills arises to view. To the 
 north-east run the Salt Mountains, and to the north-west 
 
154 
 
 the Cashmeer, although at a very great distance and scarcely 
 visible. I felt inbued with fresh spirits to-day, and I 
 believe the picturesque generally has this effect on the 
 feelings of most people long accustomed to the tiring 
 monotony of dull plain, spreading now into sandy desert, 
 now into low jungle, now into flat, though fertile fields. 
 
 To night all heavy baggage is to proceed at twelve o'clock 
 to the left bank of the Jehlum, under a guard of four na- 
 tive companies, in order to crossing the river next morning 
 ere our arrival. 
 
 January 22nd, 1842, Saturday. Started at six o'clock 
 from Koar, and arrived early on the left bank of the Jehlum. 
 The 26th N. I. went across at once to the encampment, 
 under the town of Jehlum.* The 9th piled arms, and were 
 disposed in fatigue parties throughout the day. After hard 
 work every thing was transported to the right bank before 
 six o'clock in the evening. The 10th Cavalry were ordered 
 to cross next day, and to follow us to the next encamp- 
 ment. The ford was very shallow, and all the camels 
 easily crossed. 
 
 Sunday, 23rd. The four first miles ran through a flat 
 country, the next four through the bed of the river Kasee, 
 which passed through a ridge of hills, and formed of itself 
 a kind of pass, being lined on both sides with abrupt rug- 
 ged hills about two thirds of the way. The Brigade (with 
 the exception of guns, &c. &c. &c. which continued their 
 course through the river's bed) filed to the left, and ascended 
 a narrow pass running close under the walls of the fort, 
 called Khotas, and only practicable for men and horses ; in 
 many parts the men were obliged to proceed by single files, 
 and it was more like a sheep tract than anything else. We 
 encamped in a low plain beyond the fort, and on the other 
 side of the Kasee. In the evening, Captain Bluntish, 
 Barton, Powell, and myself, set off to see the fort from 
 * Here ends the Punjaub. 
 
155 
 
 the outside. We re-crossed the Kasee, and Powell sat 
 down to sketch the north side. While idling here we 
 amused ourselves by exciting the delight of the natives at 
 the power of the telescope ; they crowded round in little 
 groups, anxious for a peep, and could not contain exclama- 
 tions of wonder, when an object far distant appeared so 
 close to them. As we were thus engaged, the Vakeel, (a 
 nobleman of the Sikh court), who accompanied the brigade 
 to arrange whatever may be required, kindly offered to 
 procure us an order for entrance to the interior of the fort. 
 We thanked him, and forthwith proceeded, with his guide, 
 to visit it. It is a large fort, but greatly dilapidated. It 
 contains 2,000 Sikh troops, besides other inhabitants. Its 
 walls, in some places, are built to a great height in crossing 
 deep ravines, &c. &c. Indeed, so abrupt are the rocks, 
 that the obstacles thrown in the way of building, must 
 have been enormous. 
 
 The view of the surrounding country, and of the snowy 
 range, is magnificent in the extreme. 
 
 Janury 24th, Monday. A fored march this morning to 
 a place named Bukrola. There were two roads, one of 
 eighteen miles, the other of about eleven miles. The 26th 
 N. I. and artillery started- at three o'clock by the former, 
 which ran through the dry bed of a river. The 9th Foot 
 and 10th Cavalry proceeded by the latter, which led over a 
 range of hills the whole way, sometimes presenting deep 
 ravines, and at other times abrupt rocky cliffs. The 
 ascents were very steep, and the pathways so narrow, as to 
 admit of only two -going abreast. At the end of our 
 march, the road (or goat path), dropped suddenly to a dry 
 bed of a river, on the banks of which was our encampment. 
 The baggage and cattle were arriving until six o'clock at 
 night. I forgot to mention that we started at five o'clock, 
 but losing our way, wandered about until six o'clock, when 
 
156 
 
 we found ourselves close to the camp from whence we had 
 started. After this, all went on right. 
 
 January 25th, Tuesday. Proceeded through the bed of 
 a river, with high rugged cliffs on both sides (an enemy 
 might stop the passage of an army through this place). At 
 the end of nine miles we turned off to the left, and 
 ascended a steep cliff, above which our camp was pitched on 
 a rising ground. From hence was afforded a magnificent 
 view of the snowy range, stretching along the north-west. 
 For the last three marches little cultivation has been visible. 
 The soil looks barren and rocky. 
 
 Wednesday. Some part of the way a fine table land. 
 At the commencement and end of the march we encoun- 
 tered ravines. 
 
 January 27th, 1842, Thursday. Started for Munee- 
 kyalla ; first part of the road interrupted by ravines ; then 
 succeeded table land, and again ravines, Encamped at 
 Muneekyalla,* a small village. Here stands a very ancient 
 building, supposed to have been built by Alexander the 
 Great, in commemoration of his victories in this country. 
 It is erected in a round form, and of solid masses of stone. 
 General Ventura, after many trials, succeeded in effecting 
 an opening through the top downwards, and found at the 
 bottom a silver vase full of coins ; also a bottle, containing 
 some dark fluid. On climbing to the top, I found that the 
 opening had not been closed up. It is about five feet 
 square, and seems to have originally been intended as the 
 only mode of entrance. 
 
 Friday, 28th. The road to-day ran through ravines ; 
 now over table land ; finally through the bed of a river. 
 The aspect of the country appeared more bleak and sterile. 
 A sharp cold wind swept over the country for the whole of 
 the day, and rendered the use of a cloak most necessary. 
 Encamped at Hoormuck ; there is a hot spring here. 
 * Alexander the Great's Tower stands here. 
 
157 
 
 Saturday, 29th, 1842. Just out of camp; crossed river 
 Sawn, passed up its lofty banks, and proceeded along 
 a table land, a good road to Rawul-pindee,* through which 
 we marched, and encamped to the north of the town, on 
 the banks of a stream. This is a famous place for blankets, 
 and is a large town : it contains a small fort. I saw plenty 
 of apples in the bazaar. The cold for the last four days 
 has been increasing; the puddles on the sides of the road 
 were frozen to the depth of a quarter of an inch. 
 
 Sunday, 30th, 1842. From Rawul-pindee onwards ; 
 camp followers were ordered to keep together, for fear of 
 the hill plunderers in this part of the country. The road 
 on the whole good to Janee-Kasung ; the country hilly, 
 and covered with water-worn stones. The following is the 
 substance of a letter received from Jellalabad, and dated 
 January 20th, 1842: 
 
 " General Elphinstone and the politicals were induced to 
 make the best terms with the new King of Cabul (Maho- 
 med Akbar Khan). Accordingly six hostages, and the 
 withdrawal of all troops from the country was settled upon ; 
 the first part of the agreement was immediately carried 
 into effect. 
 
 " In execution of the second all the disasters occurred ; 
 on the 5th of January, 1846. The whole force, consisting of 
 Her Majesty's 44th, 37th N. L, 5th N. I., 54th N. I., 6th 
 Shah's Light Infantry, Nichol's Troop, Horse Artillery 
 Troop, 5th Light Cavalry, Anderson's Horse, three guns, 
 Mountain Train, the Shah's (Sappers and Miners), marched 
 out of cantonments. A heavy fire was opened upon it 
 from all sides. Lieutenant Hardyman, of the 5th Light 
 Cavalry, was shot dead. The force, however, fought its 
 way to Kuft-Kotil, and here the disasters commenced. It 
 
 * Famous for blankets. 
 
158 
 
 appears that General Elphinstone allowed himself to be 
 kept at this place three days to no purpose. 
 
 " The cold was so intense, that the Sepoys were rendered 
 quite helpless. The enemy rushed down upon them, and 
 almost all the native troops perished. Lady Sale was 
 wounded in the arm, and her son-in-law shot dead. At 
 the demand of Akbar Khan, all the ladies were given up, 
 and, together with their husbands, escorted back to Cabul. 
 The 44th, and stragglers of the native troops, pushed on to 
 Tezeen, where a desperate fight took place. 
 
 " Elphinstone and Shelton were both taken prisoners. 
 The 44th finally reached a place between Jugdulluck and 
 Gundamuck, beyond which little progress was made. The 
 men, fearful that their officers would desert them, kept 
 them back with their firelocks, and otherwise ill treated 
 them ; in fact, became beyond all control. A fearful state 
 of confusion ensued the men, in disorder, were soon cut 
 up by the enemy. A Lieutenant Souter, the Serjeant- 
 Major, and eleven of the 44th taken prisoners, remain to 
 tell the particulars of these fearful catastrophes. At the 
 last affair, Doctor Bryden, 5th N. I. ; Captain Hopkins, 
 Shah's Force ; Captain Collier, 5th Light Cavalry ; Doctor 
 Harper, 5th Light Cavalry, fled towards Jellalabad ; these 
 three were killed the first escaped with two wounds into 
 that place : this has been a shameful business from first to 
 last, and calls for a rigid investigation. The hostages are 
 Lieutenant Airey, 3rd Buffs, Aid-de camp ; Captain John- 
 stone, Paymaster ; Lawrence, Madras Infantry ; Conolly, 
 Webb, Shah's Force ; " Walsh," ditto. 
 
 The prisoners now at Lughman are Captain and Mrs. 
 Anderson ; ditto Boyd ; Lieutenant and Mrs. Eyre, Artil- 
 lery ; ditto Waller ; Lady McNaghten ; Lady Sale ; Mrs. 
 Sturt; Trevor; Mainwairing; General Elphinstone; Co- 
 lonel Shelton ; Brigadier Anquetil, Shah's Force. 
 
159 
 
 Monday, 31st. To Vah, fourteen miles; country, ra- 
 vines. Passed through a causeway ; cut through a range of 
 hills, then through a large valley, in which were counted no 
 less than seven villages ; the prospect very fine. At the 
 end of the march proceeded through a gorge, and en- 
 camped on the banks of a stream, at the base of a rock, 
 eight hundred feet high, on the top of which stood a 
 Facquer's house. 
 
 February 1st, 1842, Tuesday. To Boorham ; a short 
 march of eight miles and a half. Crossed a rapid stream 
 the Chum-lah; through ravines. Encamped in a cotton 
 field. Hence the General proceeded to Attock, to meet 
 Captain Lawrence, Principal Agent, intending to accom- 
 pany him next morning to Peshawur. The irregular horse 
 went with him as a guard. 
 
 News by the Overland received. The Queen gave birth 
 to a son! hurrah! on the 9th of November, 1841. Brevet 
 appeared on the 23rd of November. Taylor, Lieutenant- 
 Colonel; Barn well, Major; Edmonds, Captain, and McCas- 
 kell, Lieutenant. 
 
 February 2nd, Wednesday. To Shumsabad, twelve 
 miles and a half. Ravines; small streams. A defile, and 
 river Haroo. Some parts were sandy at the end of the 
 march. Descended into a plain at the foot of low hills, 
 which hid Attock from view. Inhabitants of the villages 
 were very inquisitive, though inoffensive. 
 
 Thursday, 3rd, 1842. To Attock instead of to Kyra- 
 bad, as in route, about nine miles. We encamped about 
 two miles short of the fort; this delay was caused by a 
 force of eight or nine thousand Sikhs, who were crossing 
 the river. This force is proceeding to Peshawur ; they are 
 in a mutinous state, and cannot be relied on a "very 
 cowardly set." It rained all this day. The Rajah of this 
 district sent an order for our admittance into the fort. It 
 
 was sent to the authorities within, who answered that the 
 
 t 
 
160 
 
 Killedar, or head man, was not present, and that they would 
 see the Rajah and ourselves hanged before admitting us. 
 This is a specimen of good government to be witnessed 
 throughout the Punjaub. About two miles to the north 
 runs, or rather rushes, the famous Indus, sweeping under 
 the walls of the fort of Attock. The Indus flows in 
 several streams until it is joined by the Cabul river, when 
 it rushes past the fort like a torrent. The fort, though 
 picturesque, is incapable of defence, being commanded by 
 hills on all sides. 
 
 February 4th, Friday. Started from our encampment 
 on the left bank of the Indus at ten o'clock. A cold raw 
 day; first two miles over stony hills to the bank of the 
 river, under the walls of the fort. Crossed over a bridge 
 of sixteen boats. Proceeded through Geedur-Gullee's 
 Pass, two miles long literally Jackall's Pass, figuratively 
 so narrow as only to admit of a jackall thence the road 
 ran over dry nullahs and water courses. 
 
 Passed through the village of Akorah, and encamped to 
 the north-west, a mile or so on the banks of the Cabul 
 river. The hills around are inhabited by plunderers, called 
 Kakurs, Afredees, &c. &c., and we are in consequence 
 more on our guard. 
 
 February 5th, Saturday. Halted this day, in conse- 
 quence of the baggage having been left at the last encamp- 
 ment. The camel drivers of No. 7 Company, 9th Regi- 
 ment disappeared with their camels, and the rear guard 
 remained all day and night to protect the baggage they 
 slept in their cloaks. 
 
 February 6th, 1842, Sunday. Marched along the right 
 bank of the Cabul river. Distant hills on our right and 
 left tops covered with snow. Passed through the village 
 of Noushera, near a small fort, square, with four towers. 
 The long range of Affghan hills, covered with snow, pre- 
 sented a beautiful prospect. 
 
February 7th, Monday. Started at six o'clock, over a 
 fine plain, cultivated. The hills closing rapidly around, 
 and to all appearance there is no outlet. Snow- topped 
 mountains seen on all sides. Camels go out grazing, pro- 
 tected by a guard. 
 
 Our encampment lying at the foot of the Aifghan range, 
 individuals cannot proceed beyond limits without risk, 
 
 February 8th, 1842, Tuesday. Marched through the 
 city of Peshawur this day, and encamped to the west of it. 
 This city is built in the most picturesque manner. It con- 
 sists of three or four octagons, opening into each other by 
 gateways. The houses are three stories high, the walls of 
 which are wood frame work, filled with small bricks, and 
 present a very light and elegant appearance. Painted re- 
 presentations of soldiers, beasts, and flowers, cover every 
 disposable spot. I observed a great number of people en- 
 gaged in running off silk. Apothecaries' shops and fruit 
 stalls laid out as neatly as in England. Cashmere cloth 
 and gloves. A contrast to this soon met our eyes. On 
 the right of the road, issuing from the town, stood two 
 gallows, on a high mound, from one of which hung three 
 criminals ; from the other twelve criminals. Some were in 
 the last stage of decomposition exhibiting their fleshless 
 bones dangling in the air. Others had apparently been 
 but a short time hanging. General Avitabili (an Italian), 
 is Governor of this district, and adopts this wholesale prac- 
 tice, as the only means of restraining the lawless spirits 
 under his rule, and he succeeds wonderfully. I fear, how- 
 ever, that he is a ruthless man, and holds the life of a 
 human being and brute in equal estimation. He has built 
 a fort, commanding the city, and strong enough to resist 
 any attacks from the disaffected. 
 
 The situation is very fine. The hills are in the form of 
 a grand amphitheatre, in the midst of which is Peshawur. 
 
 M 
 
162 
 
 It is the great mart between Cabul, Cashmere and Hindos- 
 tan. Its population is immense about 100,000 souls. 
 
 Started from Meerut on the 1st of December. 1841, 
 Reached Peshawur on the 8th of February, 1842. 
 
 STAGES. MILES. 
 
 From Meerut to Kurnaul ... 75 
 From Kurnaul to Ferozepore . . 202 
 From Ferozepore to Peshawur . . 357 
 
 Total 632 
 
 Made two haults at Kurnaul four halts at Ferozepore, 
 and two between that place and Peshawur. Made one 
 forced march. Crossed six large rivers, viz. " Jumna," 
 " Sutlej," "Ravee," " Chenaub," "Jheelum," "Indus," 
 besides many small streams. In view of the highest range 
 of mountains in the world the Himalays, of the Cashmere 
 range beyond which lies the celebrated valley of the 
 Affghan Mountains ; beyond which towers the lofty peaks 
 of Hindoo Kosh, as yet unexplored, and supposed to equal 
 in height the Himalays. 
 
163 
 
 ROUTE from FEROZEPORE to PESHAWUR. 
 
 Jan 
 
 1842. 
 
 Nos. 
 
 STAGES. 
 
 Miles, 
 
 Furls. 
 
 Yds. 
 
 REMARKS. 
 
 4th. 
 
 1 
 
 Right bank of the 
 Sutlej 
 
 10 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 5th. 
 
 2 
 
 Kussoor 
 
 10 
 
 Q 
 
 o 
 
 First partof theroad jungly 
 
 
 3 
 
 Sulliance 
 
 .13 
 
 7 
 
 
 
 Camp east, close to the 
 town. 
 Half way the village of 
 
 
 4 
 
 Gunjatee 
 
 11 
 
 4 
 
 o 
 
 Aphur, across hence to 
 Lahore, at ten miles Nud- 
 deepoor camp a quar- 
 ter of a mile west of vil- 
 lage. 
 First part across two dry 
 
 
 5 
 
 Surrukpoor three 
 miles across the 
 Ravee 
 
 13 
 
 o 
 
 
 
 nullahs. Half way a great 
 expanse of plain, of de- 
 sert, low jungle. Camp a 
 quarter mile east. 
 Crossed the Ravee-ferry 
 and good ford. Camp on 
 the left bank. 
 
 
 fi 
 
 Dhurgee 
 
 13 
 
 7 
 
 
 
 
 
 7 
 
 Mulligan 
 
 15 
 
 Q 
 
 o 
 
 Over a large plain. Camp 
 
 
 8 
 
 Mutta 
 
 8 
 
 4 
 
 o 
 
 Ditto ditto Camp N W 
 
 
 Q 
 
 Shabool 
 
 ]0 
 
 6 
 
 o 
 
 Road good country open. 
 
 
 10 
 
 Naeewala . . , 
 
 12 
 
 5 
 
 o 
 
 Camp S. W. 
 Half way is the town Aka- 
 
 
 11 
 
 1? 
 
 Rum-Muggur 
 left bank of the 
 Chenaub River. 
 
 Pareewala 
 
 10 
 11 
 
 
 4 
 
 
 
 o 
 
 leegurh Camp half a mile 
 south of the village. 
 Two miles to Ghat on the 
 right bank, crossed, and 
 camp two miles N. W. 
 of town, after crossing 
 one mile and quarter of 
 heavy sand. 
 Five miles through dwak 
 jungle a ravine one mile 
 and a half from camp. 
 
 
 13 
 
 Dheengee 
 
 14 
 
 1 
 
 140 
 
 
 
 14 
 
 Khoar 
 
 12 
 
 2 
 
 o 
 
 Five or six miles over a 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 sandy road, through 
 dwak jungle. Camp a 
 quarter of a mile south, 
 road crosses seven or 
 eight beds of sand (hill 
 torrents in rains) half 
 way ascend and descend 
 a ridge of hills Camp a 
 quarter of a mile north of 
 Khoar. M 2 
 
164 
 
 Jan. 
 1842. 
 
 Nos. 
 
 15 
 1G 
 
 17 
 18 
 
 19 
 
 20 
 21 
 
 22 
 23 
 
 24 
 
 25 
 26 
 
 27 
 
 28 
 
 STACKS. 
 
 Miles. Furls 
 
 Jheelum on right 
 bank of Jheelum. 
 Here ends the 
 Punjaub 
 
 Khotas, right bank 
 
 Udhurana 
 Bakerala . . 
 
 Tameehak 
 
 Seraee Pukkee . 
 
 Munneekyala 
 
 Hoormuck. 
 
 Rawul Pindee. . . . 
 
 Janee-Ka-Sung . . 
 
 Vah 
 
 Boorhan 
 
 ; Shumsabad" .. 
 : Attock" . 
 
 12 
 
 13 
 
 14 
 
 Yds. 
 
 20 
 
 40 
 
 10 
 
 140 
 
 REMARKS. 
 
 Three miles through the 
 bed of the river ferry 
 opposite town ford mile 
 up the river, dangerous 
 and deep. 
 
 Road along the bed of 
 river, some ravines, camp 
 N. W. of Khotas. 
 
 Road along bed of river 
 camp S. E. 
 
 Road through the river; 
 best water in the Pun- 
 jaub, in a well here. 
 
 Cross Kasee River road 
 along bed of it, dangerous 
 ravines camp N. W. of 
 Tameehak. 
 
 A deep ravine three or 
 four ravines camp E., 
 River Kasee, close. 
 
 Ravines for two or three 
 miles, then country open. 
 At six miles Robat-Ke- 
 Seraee in ruins. 
 
 Road good for five or six 
 miles, thence bad ravines 
 cross the River Sawn. 
 
 Road through jungle and 
 difficult ravines cross 
 "Seel," partially dry; 
 cross "Leh" River 
 camp N. of town. 
 
 Two roads left for Hacke- 
 ries. Half way is " Kal- 
 lee-Ka-Seraee," to this a 
 byr jungle. A stone 
 bridge at ten miles a 
 stone causeway, last four, 
 a thick jungle. 
 Dross the Shumlah River, 
 two fords, left ford best ; 
 " ravines." 
 
 First part good, then sandy, 
 at seven miles, a defile 
 River Haroo knee deep. 
 
 Sandy, cross two beds of 
 streams. 
 
 A.t six miles from Akorah, 
 the narrow Geedur, Gul- 
 lee Pass cross the Indus 
 over bridge of boats. 
 Camp beyond fort. 
 
165 
 
 Jan. 
 
 1842. 
 
 Nos. 
 
 STACKS. 
 
 Miles. 
 
 Furls. 
 
 Yds. 
 
 RKMARKS. 
 
 
 29 
 
 " Akorah " 
 
 11 
 
 7 
 
 120 
 
 Road, rough and stony 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 runs close to Cabool Ri- 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 ver. Camp close to the 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 village, on right bank of 
 the Cabool River. 
 
 
 30 
 
 Noushera 
 
 q 
 
 7 
 
 170 
 
 
 
 31 
 
 Bubbee 
 
 12 
 
 1 
 
 30 
 
 First part of the road 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 swampy, cross two 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 bridges. 
 
 
 
 Total. . . . 
 
 347 
 
 1 
 
 40 
 
 
 ROUTE given by POLITICAL AGENT, January 1842. 
 
 Jan. 
 
 No. 
 
 STAGES. 
 
 Miles. 
 
 Furls. 
 
 Yds. 
 
 KKMARKS. 
 
 4 
 
 1 
 
 [light bank of the 
 Sutlej 
 
 8 
 
 o 
 
 
 
 
 5 
 
 2 
 
 ECussoor . . 
 
 10 
 
 o 
 
 o 
 
 
 7 
 8 
 9 
 
 3 
 4 
 5 
 
 Looleanee 
 Jungatch 
 *Left bank of Ravee 
 Dingha 
 
 10 
 14 
 
 7 
 
 2 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Direct to Surruckpoor, 
 four miles and a half by 
 
 11 
 13 
 14 
 
 6 
 
 7 
 8 
 
 Surruckpoor . . . 
 Barrea Mullea . . . 
 Mutta 
 
 14 
 14 
 13 
 
 
 
 
 o 
 
 
 
 
 o 
 
 Surruckpoor distance is 
 sixteen miles. 
 
 15 
 
 9 
 
 Shabool 
 
 9 
 
 4 
 
 o 
 
 
 16 
 17 
 
 10 
 11 
 
 Nyewalla . . . . , 
 Ranee-Nuggur . . 
 
 11 
 10 
 
 2 
 
 
 
 
 
 About two miles beyond 
 " Noorickwalla." 
 Brigade encamped close 
 on the left bank of the 
 Chenaub, three miles be- 
 yond "Ramnuggur, three 
 miles from Ranee Nuggur 
 full sixteen miles. 
 
 * On the 9th of January, instead of going to " Choony " (no supplies), went to 
 the left of it, a long way next morning passed over all baggage, and in the 
 evening proceeded to a village, about three miles from the river. On the morn- 
 ing of the llth. marched to Surruekpoor ; on the 21st. marched to Dingee. 
 
166 
 
 Jan. 
 
 No. 
 
 STAGES. 
 
 Miles. 
 
 Fnrls. 
 
 Yds. 
 
 RKMARKS. 
 
 19 
 
 12 
 
 Parea- Wallah . . . 
 
 11 
 
 4 
 
 
 
 
 20 
 
 13 
 
 Diusra . 
 
 12 
 
 o 
 
 o 
 
 
 21 
 
 14 
 
 
 14 
 
 2 
 
 o 
 
 
 22 
 
 15 
 
 Jehlum 
 
 11 
 
 2 
 
 o 
 
 On the right bank of the 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Jheelum River. 
 
 23 
 
 Ifi 
 
 " Khotas " . 
 
 12 
 
 o 
 
 o 
 
 For Infantry, a shorter 
 
 
 J.U 
 
 
 
 
 
 road by the fort ; direct 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 road from Khotas to Buk- 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 krola, about eleven miles 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 (except for wheeled car- 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 riages). 
 
 24 
 
 17 
 
 "Ooderana" . . . 
 
 9 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 18 
 
 " Bukkrola "... 
 
 9 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 25 
 
 19 
 
 * " Dhurmnuck " . 
 
 9 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 26 
 
 20 
 
 Serrai-Pukka . . . 
 
 14 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 27 
 
 21 
 
 Manikyala 
 
 12 
 
 4 
 
 
 
 
 28 
 
 22 
 
 Hoomuck 
 
 11 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 29 
 
 23 
 
 "RawulPindee" . 
 
 9 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 30 
 
 24 
 
 " Janee-Ka-Sung" 
 
 13 
 
 6 
 
 
 
 
 31 
 
 25 
 
 "Vah, orWah" . 
 
 14 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Feb. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 1842. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 9fi 
 
 
 8 
 
 4 
 
 o 
 
 
 J. 
 
 2 
 
 v 
 
 27 
 
 " Shumsabad" . . 
 
 12 
 
 6 
 
 
 
 
 3 
 
 28 
 
 Khyrabad 
 
 12 
 
 
 
 
 
 On the right bank of the 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Indus, opposite Attok. 
 
 4 
 
 90 
 
 Akora 
 
 10 
 
 4 
 
 o 
 
 
 
 
 ^y 
 
 qrv 
 
 ^fusli6ra t 
 
 10 
 
 Q 
 
 
 
 
 U 
 
 7 
 
 OU 
 
 Ol 
 
 Pabbee 
 
 o 
 
 o 
 
 o 
 
 
 / 
 
 8 
 
 O 1 
 
 32 
 
 "Peshawur . . . . 
 
 / 
 
 11 
 
 4 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Total Miles . . 
 
 357 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 * This place is " Tamechak, and not " Dhurmnuck.' 
 
167 
 
 February 14th, 1842, Monday. Koulsir, this is now 
 the first week of our sojourn at this place. The brigade 
 left Peshawur on the 9th, and having marched eight 
 miles, took up its present encampment, distant about six 
 miles from the Khybur Pass. Of the four regiments, com- 
 prising Wild's Brigade, two thousand Sepoys are in hos- 
 pital, and the rest dispirited. 
 
 February 15th, 16th, 17th, and 18th. Still encamped 
 at Koulsir. Wild's Brigade has joined and encamped on 
 our left ; the men are rapidly recovering. On the 18th, I 
 accompanied a party to the fort of Jumrood, distant about 
 four miles. This is a strong place though small ; four 
 regiments of Sikhs are encamped under its walls. We 
 proceeded some little way beyond the fort for the purpose 
 ofreconnoitering discovering some Khyburrees in a ruined 
 village, about half a mile off, at the foot of the first hill, 
 overlooking the Pass. The Sikhs very anxious to know 
 when we should enter the Pass, and sneered at any attempt 
 we might make. 
 
 Saturday, 19th, 1842. This day will be remarkable 
 from the circumstance of the province having been visited 
 by an earthquake, which lasted full two minutes ; the effect 
 it had was extraordinary. I had just thrown a quoit, 
 when a sudden giddiness came over me, and I was near 
 falling to the earth. Another officer who happened to be 
 standing in the open air felt the same effect. Scott and the 
 Colonel caught hold of each other for mutual support ; 
 Field and "Harthill" did the same. Of those intents, 
 some rushed out, others called out, desiring their servants 
 not to agitate the tent. Bullocks proceeding with loads 
 stopped, and began to oscillate from side to side. On 
 recovering from the shock we cast our eyes towards Pe- 
 shawur, and beheld an immense cloud of dust hovering 
 over the city, and over villages to the right, which indi- 
 cated that the visitation had proved disastrous at those 
 spots. 
 
From the reports of some of our officers wlio Lad set cif 
 for Peshawur, and reached it just after the calamity, it 
 appears that every house was more or less injured ; that 
 all the buildings on a hill overlooking the town on the left, 
 are one mass of ruins. General Avitabili's house is rent 
 from top to bottom, and he is now living in a tent. 
 General Pollock had a narrow escape ; he occupied a 
 house belonging to Lieutenant Mackeson, and at the first 
 shock left his writing-desk, and rushed out ; soon after a 
 beam fell upon the desk and smashed it to atoms. Lieu- 
 tenant Mackeson, and others in the house, escaped also. 
 The loss of life is said to be great. A tower on the 
 Peshawur road was seen to totter and fall ; the puddles of 
 water assumed a wavy motion ; the dozen criminals on the 
 gibbet were thrown into an extraordinary agitation ; the 
 air was still, and no noise accompanied the shock. It 
 seemed to pass from the west to the east. Many who had 
 experienced earthquakes before, were of opinion that the 
 shock was severe, and long in duration. It took place at 
 eleven o'clock in the day. 
 
 February 20th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd, 24th, and 25th. No 
 prospect of any movement. 
 
 February 29th, Sunday. Received accounts from Jella- 
 labad. The earthquake had proved more violent at that 
 place throwing down two bastions and parapets, which it 
 had taken months to build. General Sale, however, writes 
 in spirits, and states that the damage would soon be recti- 
 fied. No lives lost. Colonel Monteith was buried up to 
 his neck in the ruins, and rather seriously injured. Akbar 
 Khan, with some horsemen, approached to reconnoitre, but 
 was immediately driven off. 
 
 A few days ago, three Khyburrees conveyed from General 
 Pollock three thousand rupees to Jellalabad, for " Sale," 
 for which service they were to receive no less a sum than 
 three thousand, viz. a rupee for every rupee they deli- 
 
169 
 
 vered to " Sale." Negociations for the purchase of the 
 Pass have been going on for the last three days, and are 
 expected to be closed to-day ; the terms are a bonus of 
 sixteen thousand rupees, to be paid when troops (including 
 the brigade in our rear) shall have passed through the 
 Pass, and ten thousand rupees monthly payment. The 
 only difficulty lies in their demand, that arrears due to them 
 should be paid up, although they are not entitled to any 
 arrears, from their having broken their engagement in 
 closing the Pass against us. This, in all probability, will 
 be satisfactorily settled. The weather is becoming hotter, 
 but continues very pleasant ; the snow is disappearing very 
 rapidly from the mountains. 
 
 About one o'clock, a report having been made that some 
 camels had been carried off by the Khyburrees, two troops 
 of regular cavalry, and one ressalla of irregulars, went out 
 to recover them. Some officers, prompted by curiosity, 
 accompanied them. No trace of camels was seen, as the 
 cavalry swept under the slopes of some hills. Fifty or 
 sixty shots were fired at them by Khyburrees above with- 
 out effect. However, four Khyburrees, who were at first 
 taken for friends, fired at the troopers as they passed, killed 
 one, wounded another. Lieutenant Tytler, a young officer 
 of the 35th N.I., received a severe wound in the thigh, the 
 man who fired being within ten yards. Cornet Vibort of 
 the 10th cavalry, immediately dashed at the man to cut him 
 down, but the fellow closing in warded off the blow, and 
 inflicted a severe slash across the thigh ; three of the men 
 were eventually killed; the fourth, in the confusion, crept 
 into the brushwood, and remained unnoticed ; he was 
 badly wounded. This is a most absurd affair, and places 
 all concerned in a ridiculous light. 
 
 March 7th, Monday. Hour, midnight ; half-past twelve 
 o'clock on picquet. Wind blowing lustily, threaten- 
 ing to sweep away my frail pall. Bright starlight night ; 
 
170 
 
 fires to be seen around on all sides, particularly in the 
 Khybur hills. Pollock received dispatches from Sale ; he 
 is well off. Akber Khan, with fifteen hundred cavalry, 
 approached Jellalabad ; fired twice at them, and killed 
 many with shrafnell. Akbar sheered off, and is some- 
 where in the direction of Lallpoorah, awaiting our arrival. 
 This news, it is thought, will delay our advance, as we have 
 no cavalry that can be relied on to bring against him. The 
 3rd Dragoons will join us before the end of the month, 
 and then we shall move on. Within the last week strange 
 hints and whispers have been creeping from ear to ear, to 
 the effect that the regiments comprising Wild's Brigade 
 were resolved on refusing to proceed to Cabul, and that 
 the feeling was rapidly spreading. Accordingly, Pollock, 
 having summoned the commanding officers of the corps, 
 60th and 34th N.I., put the question to them. The an- 
 swer from each was, f( I stake my commission on their obedi- 
 ence." Afterwards the adjutants, calling out their men, singly 
 demanded if they were prepared to go on. All answered 
 in the affirmative. Notwithstanding this, a party of Sepoys, 
 belonging to one of these regiments, was ascertained to 
 have conferred with a detachment of the 33rd N.I., just 
 arrived, with stores from Ferozepore, soliciting them to 
 sign a paper, pledging themselves to proceed no further. 
 The 33rd refused declared they would follow their officers. 
 The Sepoys then went away, and being strangers could 
 not be identified. How precarious is the state of affairs 
 when a spirit so dastardly is evinced ! 
 
 Secret communications pass between Pollock and Sale, 
 by means of slips of paper, sometimes baked in a cake, 
 sometimes inserted into a quill, which is concealed either in 
 the beard, or in an unusual receptacle behind. The knife 
 used by the Khyburrees is two feet long, two and a half 
 inches broad at the handle, and gradually lessening to the 
 point ; it is about a quarter of an inch thick most formi- 
 
171 
 
 clable weapons. The juzzail is a long rifle, with a carved 
 stock. It is reputed to carry eight hundred yards, but 
 this I doubt ; they are loaded with iron balls. The Khy- 
 burree generally aims from a rest ; he is otherwise a bad 
 marksman. 
 
 Our whole force were on the alert last night. During 
 the day a Khyburree gave intelligence that our friends in 
 the hills, fancying that a large treasure was in camp, had 
 determined to attack us at night. Their plan was to make 
 a false attack in front, and fixing our attention on that 
 quarter, by showing divers lights moving to and fro, while 
 a real attack was to be attempted in the rear, with hopes 
 of bearing off the booty. Every preparation was made to 
 receive our guests, from whose visit we anticipated some 
 solid entertainment. The alarm was false, for our friends 
 never came. 
 
 Camp, eight miles to the north-west of the city of Pe- 
 shawur, and six miles from the mouth of the Khybur Pass. 
 
 March 8th, 
 
 My dear Harriet I am far beyond the boundary of 
 Hindostan and of British dominions ; a glance at the map 
 will show you our present situation, and the country 
 through which my regiment passed. In consequence of 
 the Cabul catastrophe, the 9th, with some Sepoy regiments, 
 were pushed on with the greatest dispatch to the assistance 
 of those troops which yet remained in jeopardy. 
 
 We started from Meerut on the 1st of December, 1841, 
 and arrived at Peshawur on the 8th of February, having 
 marched a distance of six hundred and thirty miles, and 
 crossed six large rivers (larger than the Thames), namely 
 the Jumna, Sutlej, Ravee, Chenaub, Jhelum, Indus, 
 besides smaller streams. In view to the north-east, the 
 highest mountains in the world, the Himalaya, the Cash- 
 
172 
 
 mere range, beyond which lies the celebrated valley ; to 
 the north-west, the Affghan hills; and far beyond, the 
 lofty peak of the Hindoo-Kosh, as yet unexplored, and 
 supposed to equal in height the Himalaya. The prospect 
 is very fine a grand amphitheatre of hills, in the midst of 
 which stands Peshawur; those in our front are called 
 " Khybur," and are inhabited by two tribes, who have 
 refused us a passage through their country. However, in 
 a short time, we shall advance and force our way. Our 
 present force consists of five thousand men ; and our 
 object is to relieve General Sale, who is cooped up in Jel- 
 lalabad. 
 
 Jellalabad is about one hundred miles from this place, 
 the road lying through a most difficult country. The Pass 
 in our front is twenty-eight miles long, and in some places 
 only twenty yards wide, with rocks almost perpendicular 
 on both sides. The Khyburrees possess long rifles, called 
 juzzails, which can command any part of this Pass. They 
 could annoy an advancing enemy much by planting parties 
 behind breastworks, thrown up on the heights, and by cast- 
 ing down masses of rock and stone. By these means they 
 have already succeeded in repulsing four Sepoy regiments. 
 Notwithstanding all this they are by no means formidable 
 to an European corps. A Briton (a Feringhee) is held in 
 the greatest fear, and no native will dare to face him. 
 These Khyburrees, like the Irish, are constantly burning 
 signal fires in their hills, and parties of them can be fre- 
 quently seen by aid of the telescope. "We shall, in all 
 probability, advance from our present position in ten or 
 fifteen days. Jellalabad is our first object, which attained, 
 circumstances will direct further movements. Two days 
 after, I received my father's letter, dated November 29th, 
 which fully accounted for the non-appearance of William's 
 name in the Gazette. The cutting off all communication, 
 
173 
 
 or an event still stronger, may render tins letter " my last," 
 and I shall express my feelings and wishes as fully as pos- 
 sible. 
 
 However, in my present situation, exposed to the changes 
 and chances of war, it would be folly to provide for the 
 future, with that which I do not now possess. Upon this 
 subject I think I have said all that is required, and I shall 
 conclude by remarking, that in my October letter I made 
 no admission nor promise which I cannot perform. 
 
 You will by this time have read the paper accounts of 
 our disasters in this country. The causes which led to those 
 disasters were these our communications not being kept 
 up, in direct violation of every principle of war ; a general, 
 crippled both in mind and body, at the head of the troops ; 
 the infatuation of politicals ; their blindness and contempt 
 of repeated warnings ; and the absence of a systematic 
 espoinage. Our Indian possessions have occupied little of 
 the attention of British legislators. This catastrophe is 
 the result of their neglect ; it will come upon them with 
 the force of a clap of thunder the wealthy peer will start 
 from his ease, and the stockholder will tremble for his very 
 subsistence. However, it will have the effect of rousing 
 energies long dormant, and instituting an inquiry long 
 needed. 
 
 This Whig farce comes with a vengeance, and ends in a 
 Whig tragedy. The loss of human life is supposed to 
 amount to fourteen thousand, including camp followers. 
 The army, on its retreat from Cabul, had to cross passes, 
 running over hills five, six, and seven thousand feet high, 
 with snow, knee deep, on the ground. The Sepoy regi- 
 ments were soon cut off, principally by the intense cold, 
 not by the enemy. One regiment of Europeans, and the 
 only one with the force, the 44th, still held on, driving 
 back the enemy in all directions, and had actually reached 
 a distance of sixty miles, having overcome the most formi- 
 
174 
 
 dable obstacles, and had arrived within forty miles of a 
 place of safety, when, in an evil hour, the men broke into 
 small desperate bodies, selecting their own leaders, and of 
 course were soon easily overpowered by myriads of the 
 enemy ; one officer escaped into Jellalabad. The Sepoys 
 are not fit for this service, at such a season ; the cold was 
 so intense that they could not use their muskets, and they 
 were totally incapable of acting. About forty officers lost 
 their lives. 
 
 If you see Captain Meredith, of the 13th regiment, tell 
 him that his regiment is behaving gallantly at Jellalabad, 
 and that the 9th are advancing to their rescue, and that a 
 meeting is anxiously wished for by both parties. 
 
 This country seems by nature subject to commotions. 
 On the 19th of February, we experienced a violent shock 
 of an earthquake the effect was extraordinary. While in 
 the act of throwing a quoit, a sudden giddiness came over 
 me, and I was near falling to the ground. Those who 
 were standing were alike affected ; of those in tents, some 
 rushed out, some called to their servants, desiring them not 
 to agitate their tents. Bullocks with their loads came to a 
 stand, and oscillated to and fro. On recovering from the 
 shock, we cast our eyes towards Peshawur, and beheld 
 clouds of dust hanging over that place, and over villages to 
 the right of it. Every house in the city was more or less 
 injured some a complete mass of ruins. General Pollock, 
 who commands our forces, left a desk at which he was writing, 
 and rushed from the house, a moment afterwards a beam fall- 
 ing smashed the desk to atoms. The loss of life in the city 
 amounted to thirty or fortjr. A tower on the road to Pesh- 
 awur was seen to totter and then crumble into dust; puddles 
 of water were strangely agitated ; a dozen wretches strung 
 up on gibbets, overlooking the city, seemed in violent con- 
 tention; and yet there was a perfect stillness in the air. 
 The earthquake took place at eleven o'clock in the day, 
 
175 
 
 and lasted two minutes, I could give you long descrip- 
 tions of this country and of the different places I visited. 
 The city of Peshawur is built in a most picturesque man- 
 ner ; it consists of four octagons, opening into each other 
 by lofty gateways. The houses are three stories high, the 
 walls of which are wooden framework, filled in with small 
 bricks, presenting a very light and elegant appearance ; 
 painted representations of soldiers, animals, and flowers, 
 cover every disposable spot. I observed a large number of 
 people engaged in running off most beautiful silk ; apothe- 
 caries' shops (rare things) ; fruit stalls laid out as neatly as in 
 England ; Cashmere cloth and gloves. I witnessed the same 
 evidence of absolute government. On a high mound, com- 
 manding the city, stood two gibbets, on which dangled no 
 less than twelve criminals. General Avitabili, an Italian, 
 is governor of this district, and adopts this wholesale prac- 
 tice as the only means of restraining the lawless spirits 
 under his rule. Peshawur is the grand mart between 
 Cabul, Cashmere, and Hindostan, and is said to contain 
 100,000 souls; it belongs to our allies, the Sikhs, of the 
 Punjaub, who are as blood-thirsty and treacherous, and as 
 faithless as the Affghans themselves. 
 
 So you are again at Kingscourt. I am glad Robert is 
 getting on so well. Charles was not mentioned in the last 
 letter ; as a study I would recommend mathematics and 
 trigonometry above all. I hoped that William might have 
 partaken of the glories of this northern campaign, but now 
 I will reap them all myself. My friend Douglas is still at 
 Calcutta the commander-in-chief could not spare him 
 
 from his office. C 1 has arrived in this country. My 
 
 aunt gave me a on leaving Meerut, and begged me to 
 
 correspond with her. You must direct all letters, " Aff- 
 ghanistan." Write, my dear Harriet, it is long, long since 
 you wrote, and now it is more necessary, as I shall soon be 
 cut off in a manner from the world. If you get no letters 
 
176 
 
 for a long time, be not anxious. Communications pass 
 through this country by means of slips of paper, sometimes 
 baked in cakes, sometimes inserted into a quill, and con- 
 cealed in the beard. 
 
 Love to father, Helena, and the boys. 
 
 Believe me ever your affectionate Brother, 
 
 J. S. GUMMING. 
 
 March llth, 1842. "Weather becoming hotter thermo- 
 meter 80. It seems now almost certain that no advanced 
 movement before the arrival of the 3rd Brigade, under 
 Colonel Richmond. Of the two Khybur tribes, the 
 " Usuckgies" (that at the other end of the Pass), have 
 acceded to our terms ; but the Effredees (that in our front) 
 remain obstinate. The Sikh soldiers were in the habit of 
 lounging through our camp, peeping into tents, and other- 
 wise behaving in an offensive manner. General Pollock 
 gave an order that the picquets were to prevent their 
 entrance into camp, so that now we are rid of their annoy- 
 ance. On the night of the 9th, at about nine o'clock, the 
 report of a musket was heard in the direction of the main 
 picquet, succeeded by others in rapid succession. Instantly 
 were bugles sounded, drums beating, every soldier in the 
 camp started to his feet, and rushed to the appointed spot ; 
 fires were immediately extinguished, and the different 
 regiments disposed so as to face the supposed danger. On 
 reaching the front, a few dropping shots were still kept up 
 by our picquets, but from the darkness no enemy was 
 visible to us our men all loaded. However, the firing 
 soon ceased altogether, and all was again silence. It ap- 
 pears, that a number of horsemen approached the sentry 
 on the right of the main picquet ; the sentry challenged, 
 and receiving no answer, fired ; the firing was taken up, 
 and ran along the whole line of main picquets from right 
 
177 
 
 to left ; the party or parties then retired. One sentry, who 
 was posted about sixty paces from the bank of a dry bed 
 of a river, perceived something appearing above the bank, 
 and apparently approaching his post. He challenged, and 
 was answered by three bullets, all of which missed him ; 
 he sunk upon one knee and fired to the front, in the direc- 
 tion of the flashes ; and it was ascertained afterwards that 
 he had shot one man. The camp again retired to rest, and 
 were again called up at three o'clock. Upon this occasion 
 three or four shots were fired upon a party who had 
 returned to carry off the body, which in the confusion of 
 the first attack had been left behind in the dry bed. It 
 was a general remark how quick the 9th turned out every 
 man seems to be endued with a spirit of adventure. Some 
 Khyburrees, who came into camp, reported that a chief 
 with a hundred men, hearing that there was treasure in the 
 camp, was induced to come down from the hills in hopes of 
 plunder, but being met so spiritedly, thought fit to retire ; 
 they also said that the chief and one follower had been 
 killed. The Sikhs, however, pretended that they had 
 made the attack, which no one believes. 
 
 Saturday, 12th, 1842. At about half-past twelve o'clock 
 last night a succession of shots from the main picquet again 
 called us to the scene of action. On this occasion the 
 Captain of the picquets extended his men, who began 
 firing (or rather the Sepoys did, not the Europeans) ; the 
 enemy did not return the fire but retired, and we could see 
 the lights of their matchlocks glimmering in the distance. 
 We turned in again, and were not disturbed for the rest of 
 the night. One or more are supposed to have been killed, 
 though the fact cannot be ascertained, as these people 
 invariably carry off their dead. 
 
 This is a very wet day the air cold. It seems that 
 wonders are never to cease in this country. About two 
 
 N 
 
178 
 
 o'clock, a rushing sound as if wind approaching, was heard 
 towards the west ; it was a hail storm, exceeding anything 
 of the kind I had ever witnessed ; for about ten minutes a 
 dense perpetual shower of hail stones poured upon the 
 earth ; the stones were a half and two-thirds of an inch in 
 diameter, and some of full an inch. Some officers who 
 happened to be exposed to the storm for an instant or two, 
 described the blows they received as quite painful ; the 
 horses appeared to feel it much, as they had no means of 
 protecting themselves against the continued pelting. The 
 storm was accompanied by thunder and lightning. 
 
 On Friday night, a party of marauders (Khyburrees it is 
 thought) attacked our sick, who are in tents, close under 
 Peshawar, supposing that the baggage of the regiment had 
 been sent with them. They were driven off by the Juz- 
 zailchees, who, however, lost two men, killed. This was 
 in consequence of the stupidity of their femadar in not 
 serving out ammunition to the men. A dispatch was 
 received from Sale ; he is closely invested, and anxious that 
 we should move forward to his assistance. This, however, 
 is out of the question till the arrival of the 3rd Brigade ; 
 the principal reason is a want of confidence in the native 
 troops. Seventy Sepoys have deserted, many of whom are 
 supposed to have been cut up by the Sikhs. It is now most 
 unsafe to go beyond the limits of the camp, as plunderers 
 are scattered over the plain in all directions. 
 
 March 12th, 1842. Tears do not dwell long upon the 
 cheeks of youth rain drops easily from the bud, rests on 
 the blossom of the maturer flower, and breaks down that 
 one only which hath lived its day. Landor, Peshawar. 
 
 Sunday, 13th, 1842. All last night and to-day a cold 
 strong west wind has prevailed. 
 
 Tuesday, 15th. A Khybur-Synd, entrusted by General 
 Pollock with the transmission of 15,000 rupees to General 
 
179 
 
 Sale, contrary to the expectations of many, arrived safe at 
 Jellalabad.* This man is a pleasing exception to most of 
 his race, a false and treacherous set he has returned and 
 is now in camp. A price has been set upon Captain 
 Mackeson's head (political agent in this place); and a man 
 of some note is said to have offered to assassinate him. 
 General Pollock has accordingly desired that he should 
 encamp in the European lines for greater safety. News 
 received this morning that Lord Ellenborough had arrived 
 in Calcutta. His first act was to write with his own hand 
 a letter to Pollock, approving of all his measures. This 
 promptness on his part speaks well. 
 
 True friendship necessarily requires patience ; for there 
 is no man in whom I shall not dislike something, and who 
 shall not as justly dislike something in me. My friend's 
 faults, therefore, if little, I will swallow and digest; if 
 great, I will smother them ; however, I will wink at them 
 to others, but lovingly mollify them to himself. Bishop 
 Hall, March 18th, 1842. 
 
 Thursday, March 24th, 1842. The force is still at 
 Kowsalsir ; our movements uncertain. All negociations 
 with Khyburrees had been broken of, but the day before 
 yesterday were again resumed. In the first instance, they 
 demanded three lacks of rupees ; they then came down to 
 one and a half, which General Pollock refused, and broke 
 off. He will not give more than fifty thousand, but should 
 the 31st Queen's join, will give nothing. Sale is not closely 
 invested ; a few checks given to the enemy, together with 
 the circumstance of Akbar Khan having been wounded 
 by one of his own men, have occasioned a cessation of 
 attacks on his part. 
 
 * It was known by the enemy, through their spies, when and by 
 what road he was going, and people were accordingly stationed to 
 intercept him. At one place a party hotly pursued him, and he only 
 escaped by taking refuge in his own village, from whence he safely 
 reached Jellalabad. 
 
 N 2 
 
180 
 
 Thursday, March 31st, 184-2. The 3rd Dragoons, 1st 
 Cavalry, and one troop of Horse Artillery having joined us 
 yesterday, General Pollock determined upon advancing. 
 Accordingly the army of the Indus moved this morning 
 from the encampment of Kowsalsir (having been in tents 
 at this place from the 9th of February to the 31st of 
 March, 1842), and advanced in regular order of march 
 about six miles, a mile beyond Jumrood, and two miles 
 from the mouth of the Khybur Pass. The ground is much 
 broken here, consisting of alternate hillocks and water- 
 courses. Some of the Khybur tribes have received money 
 to keep open the Pass thirty thousand rupees is already 
 paid down, and twenty thousand on reaching Jellalabad ; 
 but treachery is much apprehended, and with reason. We 
 shall, therefore, advance with the greatest caution and vigi- 
 lance. 
 
 Jumrood, March 31st, 1842. 
 
 My dear Douglas I write you a hurried note to say 
 that we are at last in movement. The 3rd Dragoons, 1st 
 Cavalry, and Horse Artillery, arrived yesterday, having 
 pushed on by forced marches ; and the army of the Indus 
 made their first advance towards Jellalabad this morning. 
 I enclose you the order of inarch, which I believe to be 
 correct. General Pollock hopes to arrive to Sale's relief 
 
 about the 7th of April, as R 1 rations in the fort will 
 
 only last up to that day. It contains, however, plenty of 
 " attah." As the Pass is in a manner bought, and the 
 Khyburrecs promise largely, but treachery is suspected, 
 the troops will proceed as if an enemy were in front. We 
 started this morning from our old encampment, and pro- 
 ceeded about six miles to within two miles of the mouth of the 
 Pass. Though the amount of baggage is small in the extreme 
 for such a large force, yet the rear column did not start for 
 two hours after the front column; fancy, then, the difP- 
 
181 
 
 culty of entering the Pass so encumbered ! Serious oppo- 
 sition is not expected to be made. Ali Musjid, which is 
 s*iid to be occupied by some hundreds of Affghans, sent by 
 that villain, Akbar Khan ; however, a shell or two will 
 dislodge them, after which we shall encounter no great 
 opposition until we come up with Akbar Khan. He has 
 about twelve hundred cavalry, more formidable than any 
 native horsemen in our service ; with these and his infantry 
 he will most likely make a stand, ineffectually, of course, 
 against our overpowering force. Should he be forced back, 
 his intention is to retreat across the hills to the north, 
 taking with him the captives in the fort of Lugman. Pol- 
 lock, however, is endeavouring to frustrate this intention, 
 by persuading the chief in charge of the fort to shut it 
 against his master, and thus protect the captives until our 
 arrival to his succour. It is thought that the relief of Sale 
 being accomplished, we shall return immediately to Pesha- 
 war I fervently hope not, but I believe no one knows ex- 
 cepting Pollock himself. Our baggage small indeed. 
 
 B n and I have a pall between us, nine feet by seven, 
 
 and six high ; a carpet-bag is my share ; three sattoos 
 carry all our things. We sleep on the ground. Thermo- 
 meter yesterday 89, to-day 85, increasing daily, yet we 
 are in health, because in spirits. The army enters the Pass 
 to-morrow, all hands carrying two days' provisions. A 
 parade has been suddenly ordered, and I am obliged to stop 
 short. Blunlish, Scott are left behind at Peshawar. Pol- 
 lock is much liked, proving himself a man of energy. He 
 considers the 9th his great stay ; the 31st has not joined 
 us. Adieu! Adieu! 
 
 Yours ever sincerely, 
 
 J. S. GUMMING. 
 
 Saturday, April 2nd, 1842. The army halted yesterday, 
 to allow of further arrangements being made as to baggage, 
 
182 
 
 at K r. Officers and men had confined themselves 
 
 to the merest necessaries, and stores had also been curtailed, 
 yet it was found necessary at this place to put a further 
 restriction upon the generality of stores, and upon the 
 baggage of the two cavalry corps lately joined; and all 
 were yesterday removed into the fort of Jumrood. Besides 
 the force, at present comprising the army, there are also 
 a body of Juzzailchees, under Captain Ferrais, and a regi- 
 ment of Uzukies, under Lieutenant Thomas.* The Sikhs 
 are to co-operate, by forcing a pass to our left, but little 
 dependance can be placed on them. The first ridge of hills 
 before us are very steep, presenting only two apparent 
 openings, which are very narrow ; high ridges rise succes- 
 sively beyond these. Since our arrival at this place yes- 
 terday morning, the Khyburrees have been busily engaged 
 throwing a sungha across the mouth of the Pass, and are 
 determined to resist us. It appears that twelve thousand 
 rupees had been advanced them, and twelve thousand was 
 to be paid on our arrival at Ali-mus-jid. However, they 
 sent into camp yesterday to say that they must at once 
 have the second instalment, which has been, of course, 
 refused. They consequently intend offering their best 
 resistance, and twelve thousand rupees have been expended 
 to no purpose. It is said they possess a gun. They bum 
 fires all night on the sides of the hills, right and left of the 
 Pass, and have erected their white flag, signifying " vic- 
 tory or death." The army moves on to-morrow, the men 
 taking two days' supplies of cooked provisions. 
 
 * Cousin to the author, and son to the late General Thomas. 
 
LIGHT COMPANY. 
 
 ALPHABETICAL ROLL of the above Company, of which 
 I am Senior Subaltern now, with the Regiment 
 Khybur.* 4th of April, 1842. 
 
 RANK AND NAMES. 
 
 1 cs Robert Allen 
 
 1 1 Alexander Allen 
 
 2 1 Thomas Ball 
 
 3 1 Edward Waymen 
 
 1 c William Banbury 
 
 2 c James Price 
 
 3 c William Taylor 
 
 1 D Henry Edward 
 
 2 D John Kilboy 
 
 1 P Thomas Adams 
 ... 5 Edward Adlam 
 
 John Allen 
 
 John Atkinson 
 
 5 ... Richard Barrs 
 
 George Bateman 
 
 James Birmingham 
 
 Evan Bishop 
 
 Robert Bottomly 
 
 10 ... John Bown 
 
 John Brown 
 
 Joseph Brown 
 
 Michael Brown 
 
 James Button 
 
 15 ... Robert Byrur 
 
 James Cadick 
 
 Joseph Chambers 
 
 RANK AND NAMES. 
 
 Isaac Coatmah 
 
 Thomas Cook 
 
 20 ... Maurice Cummuns 
 
 Edward Dark 
 
 Patrick Dawson 
 
 James Dickinson 
 
 Joseph Dunbar 
 
 25 ... John Fitzgibbon 
 
 Cornelius Foley 
 
 Francis Gallaher 
 
 William Gillan 
 
 30 ... John Gorman 
 
 William Hawkins 
 
 John Hill 
 
 James Hawksworth 
 
 John Hogarth 
 
 35 ... Daniel Hoult 
 
 Richard Huiley 
 
 James Hutteridge 
 
 Michael Jones 
 
 Thomas Jordon 
 
 40 ... William Kinch 
 
 Thomas Floyd 
 
 Primrose Me Caun 
 
 43 i William Me Cormick 
 . William Me Prath 
 
 * The author was, however, removed, and posted to the command 
 of Company No. 6. one of the two companies which led the Brigade 
 under Colonel Taylor. 
 
184 
 
 45 
 
 50 
 
 55 
 
 60 
 
 65 
 
 RANK AND NAMES. 
 
 Francis Me Crusty- 
 William Mains 
 Charles Middthurst 
 Willian Moran 
 John Morripey 
 James Mullhalland 
 Denis Murphy 
 Garrett Murphy 
 Thomas Murphy 
 William Nowlan 
 Robert Nursey 
 John Callaghan 
 John Parker 
 Peter Pender 
 Thomas Perham 
 George Plant 
 John Gotter 
 James Price 
 Michael Mara 
 Thomas Maus 
 William Rerad 
 John Richmond 
 James Robinson 
 John Sessions 
 
 70 
 
 75 
 
 80 
 
 85 
 
 90 
 
 RANK AND NAMES. 
 
 John Shearing 
 Joseph Sismith 
 William Skinner 
 John Smeetow 
 Joseph Smith 
 Peter Smith 
 William Smith 
 William Snow 
 Henry Stannard 
 George Steadman 
 James Aginses 
 Robert Thurthill 
 Robert Turner 
 Alfred Wain 
 Joseph Walker 
 John Wallace 
 Thomas Warnock 
 John Warren 
 James Weston 
 Joseph White 
 John Wheatley 
 Charles Watkins 
 Charles Winstone 
 
 93 
 
 Ten miles from Peshawur, April 4th, 1842. 
 My dear Father At the date of my last letter, we were 
 in expectation of advancing within a fortnight through the 
 Khybur Pass. One whole month has, however, elapsed, 
 and we are still here. The tribes of those hills, insti- 
 gated by Akbar Khan (one of the rebel Cabul Chiefs), 
 have, until within a few days, refused to allow our troops 
 
185 
 
 a passage through their country. Money has at last gained 
 them over,* and the " Army of the Indus " accordingly 
 will advance to-morrow morning. General Sale, with 
 ,000 men, Europeans and Sepoys, being closely invested 
 in Jellalabad, (a place at a distance of one hundred miles), 
 by Akbar Khan, our first object is to liberate his force 
 to chastise Akbar Khan and to make arrangements for an 
 advance on Cabul. Our road from this to Cabul lies 
 through a succession of Passes the most formidable per- 
 haps in the world. The whole distance is two hundred 
 miles ; yet although the Sepoy corps are not fitted for 
 such warfare alone, still backed by the pluck and bull-doy 
 courage of the men of our regiment, and of other Euro- 
 peans, / have no fears as to the result. The troops have 
 every confidence in their General (Pollock, a company's 
 officer), and I think with justice. Our present force con- 
 sists of about five thousand Infantry and fifteen hundred 
 Cavalry, Artillery, &c. &c. Additional troops are now 
 marching through the Punjaub to join us. The weather, 
 unfortunately, is not favorable to our operations ; the heat 
 increases rapidly ; and, in less than a month, the wind will 
 be sweeping over the land with Asiatic intensity. I hope, 
 however, ere this, that we shall have made ourselves mas- 
 ters of the mountain ranges, and be in the enjoyment 
 of a more genial atmosphere. Fancy English troops 
 crowning heights, with the thermometer at 100 or 115, 
 or even more yet they can and will do it. In consequence 
 of the difficulties before us, our baggage, though small, 
 has been curtailed, and placed for security in the Peshawur 
 fort, in the hands of the Sikh Government (a precarious 
 security), for we are not sure of their fidelity for a single 
 
 * They have broken their agreement, and demanded immediate 
 payment, which Pollock very properly refused. They are determined 
 to resist us, and we to force our way. Of our success I fear not, 
 although it must be with considerable loss. 
 
186 
 
 moment. Our situation is by no means enviable an 
 enemy in front, a doubtful ally in rear ; the latter are only 
 held to us by their deep hatred to the Affghans ; and on 
 any reverse on our side, would be inclined to pillage our 
 baggage, and massacre our sick and small detachments, 
 which will remain in Peshawur. The Sikh troops are most 
 insulting ; indeed the whole population lose no opportunity 
 of showing their aversion to us. Many camp followers, 
 straggling too far from camp, have been murdered ; 
 officers grossly insulted, and indignities shown to all par- 
 ties yet these are our allies, and four Sikh regiments 
 actually accompany us on our march, not to fight, but to 
 witness our fighting. The course of events * may yet place 
 in our possession the Punjaub, forcing upon them a 
 change in their demeanour ; and many Sikhs are of opinion 
 that the day is not far distant, f as our Indian empire will 
 not be complete, until bounded by the deep and rapid 
 Indus. In co-operation with us is a large force on the 
 Candahar side, beyond the Boland Pass, towards the south- 
 west. If you can procure a map of this country, you will 
 be able to trace our progress. 
 
 The Candahar army advances on Cabul, succouring 
 Kelat-i-Gilzie and Guznee on its way, and meets the army 
 of the Indus at the former place. Both armies will have 
 to cross ranges of hills, five, six, seven, and eight thousand 
 feet high. We hope to reach Jellalabad about the 9th of 
 April. At this place Akbar Khan will oppose us feebly 
 I suspect as he has lately been wounded and is dispirited. 
 On being driven back, he intends crossing the hills to the 
 north, beyond our reach, taking with him all the captives 
 who are imprisoned in a fort close by. I tremble for the 
 unfortunates in the hands of this ruthless man, as he 
 
 * How truly prophetic. 
 
 f This again truly prophetic ; such was the fact. 
 
187 
 
 would not scruple to murder every one of them. In the 
 Affghan's revenge is the strongest passion, and may in this 
 wretch overpower his love of money. All my baggage is 
 contained in one carpet bag, and a little bedding rolled up 
 and thrown across a pony. A little tent, nine feet by 
 seven and a half, and six feet high this between two, 
 myself and a brother officer, (Captain Borlon). We sleep 
 on the ground the thermometer at this moment 89. I 
 am sitting on a little stool, with a small writing desk on my 
 knees ; my companion in a similar position, a yard from 
 me ; and thus we scribble away to our friends I may say 
 quite contented with our lot. 
 
 I find it just post time, and I must now close, for I know 
 not where I may be to-morrow. Accept, my dearest and 
 best of fathers, a " soldier's farewell." My love to my 
 dear sisters, and to the boys, and believe me 
 
 Your most affectionate Son, 
 J. S. GUMMING.* 
 
 Extract of a Letter from Captain , of her Majesty s 
 
 9th Foot, dated Camp Jellalabad, 24<th of April, 1843. 
 
 " You begged me to send you a line, if the regiment 
 was employed in really active service. I hasten to do so 
 more particularly, as he to whom you would most likely 
 have looked for intelligence is, alas ! now no more. Yes, 
 our poor dear friend Gumming, from whom you so recently 
 parted, full of health, and zeal for the service in which 
 we were about to engage, now lies, alas ! on the Khy- 
 bur Hills. 
 
 * This was the last which appears to have been written by the all 
 amiable and heroic author. 
 
188 
 
 " At length, as the 31st regiment could not arrive and 
 join us before the 15th, and Sale's resources were known to 
 be failing him, the 5th was fixed for our advance, and at 
 half-past two A. .M the tents were silently struck, and the 
 grey dawn found us drawn up some hundred yards in front 
 of our late camp, and opposite the several points of our 
 intended attack ; however, the numerous alarm fires which 
 blazed along the sides of the hills, showed us that our 
 enemies were also on the alert. The plan of attack was as 
 follows. The ranges of hills, on each side of the Pass, 
 were to be crowned in three columns, and as they were 
 successfully cleared of the enemy, the main body, with 
 treasure, ammunition, baggage, &c. &c. to enter the gorge. 
 The sketch annexed, will give you a general idea of the 
 entrance to the Pass, and may facilitate explanation. The 
 attack on the right was known to be most difficult of 
 ascent, and was led by Colonel Taylor, in person, and 
 made at three points, with as many columns, himself on the 
 right, with the Light Company, under Captain Lushingtoii 
 and Co. ; No. 6, under Gumming, and four Sepoy Com- 
 panies. The centre led by Captain Graham and Sepoys ; 
 and the left led by Major Anderson, 64th N. I., consisting 
 of my own company ; and half of No. 5, under Lieutenant 
 Powel, and Sepoys. The moment that day broke we 
 advanced, over ground broken and intercepted by deep 
 ravines, each of which afforded formidable means of de- 
 fence. We found the Khyburrees occupying, in detached 
 parties, the spurs which projected from the foot of the 
 hills, beating tom-toms, screaming like fiends, and bran- 
 dishing the long knives, with which they had so frightened 
 Wild's poor Sepoys. We soon drove them from these ex- 
 posed situations, and they retired to the several well 
 known rocks, under cover of which, they could deliver 
 their fire in greater security. Our men, however, pressed 
 
- 189 
 
 on with a determination, which soon led our enemies to 
 conclude, that they had to contend with a more dangerous 
 force than the Sepoys. The balls flew briskly among us, 
 yet the casualties were not so numerous as the previously 
 earned reputation of the Khyburrees led us to expect ; and 
 after toiling for above an hour, over ground of greater 
 difficulty than we had supposed, from observation, we 
 crowned the long wished for summit. When we reached 
 this point, it was an exhilarating sight to see the rascals 
 streaming pell-mell down the still more precipitous face, 
 which lead into a river-bed on the opposite side. While this 
 was doing, a most unsuccessful attack was made by the 
 Grenadiers, to turn the enemy at the shoulder overlooking 
 the Pass, who were ordered by Pollock over an impracti- 
 cable path at D, where they became exposed to rocks, 
 which the enemy threw from above, killing Colour-Serjeant 
 Whiteside and three privates, and wounding Captain Ogle 
 and nine men ; whereas, had he waited a little patiently, 
 the descent of our advancing party, under Taylor, the 
 enemy would have been taken in reverse, without any loss. 
 Taylor, with his advancing party, now descended the hill, 
 to dislodge the enemy, from the next hill on the right 
 of the gorge, and then moving along the chain of heights, 
 to protect the head of the column in the Pass. A similar 
 movement was made on the left, and Anderson's party 
 forming the right rear, had, of course, to occupy the main 
 height , until the whole of the baggage and rear guard 
 had passed through the gorge. Gumming should have 
 descended with Taylor, but when we reached the summit, 
 " Gumming," who had been occupied in bringing up a 
 wounded man to the shoulder, found that some of his men 
 had fallen behind, and mixed with others, without order, 
 went back to chide and bring them together ; which, having 
 done, and while bringing his company to A, from which 
 point we could, without exposure, effectually check every 
 
190 . 
 
 advance of the enemy, he was unfortunately ordered to B,* 
 where his men could not show themselves without being 
 fired upon at a short distance ; while doing this, the enemy 
 re-assembled in very considerable numbers in the rear, 
 attacked him in his exposed position. Intelligence soon 
 reached us that he was hard pressed, and required support. 
 He was then ordered to retreat, while I was sent forward 
 with a force to support him ; but ere I had reached him, I 
 was shocked at hearing, that while coolly and gallantly 
 retiring in the most soldier-like manner, with the last 
 of his men, he was shot dead a ball passing through his 
 temple. A man of mine, seeing Gumming fall, ran forward 
 and raised his head ; while doing this, a second ball passed 
 between his arms, and through Cumming's scull, putting 
 his immediate death beyond any doubt ; while we retreated 
 in turn, the Affredees poured showers of bullets upon us, 
 and, shouting for victory, immediately mounted their 
 standard. I had not much time for reflection, for Ander- 
 son, seeing all this, ordered us all to advance, and again 
 drive them from B, which we did, and occupied the point 
 for about a quarter of an hour, when he ordered me to 
 retire to A, which I effected, with one officer and three 
 men wounded. While we occupied B, I caused search to 
 be made for the body of my friend but in vain. I heard 
 afterwards, that the body was seen by one of the men 
 at the bottom of a precipice, about thirty feet down, partly 
 stripped, but not mutilated. You must conceive how much 
 it pained me, to be unable to rescue my poor friend's 
 remains from an enemy, notorious for their brutal treat- 
 ment of the dead. However, when we have the inesti- 
 
 * This proved a fatal error, to dispatch from the strong hold at a, an 
 officer with fifty or sixty men to B, an exposed post in the rear, and 
 of no value ; and to this oversight is attributable the loss of this young 
 officer and some men. 
 
191 
 
 mable consolation of feeling assured, as in this instance, 
 as far as human beings can judge that the spirit rests 
 with God, the fate of the clay must be a matter of minor 
 importance. Powel had a very narrow escape while re- 
 tiring. A ball struck just under the shoulder-blade, 
 pierced the cloth, and passing round between it and the 
 lining, lodging in the padding over the breast. Towards 
 evening we were glad to find that the numbers of the 
 enemy were gradually decreasing, and at sun-set we de- 
 scended the hill without opposition, and immediately occu- 
 pied and bivouacked on the next hill over the gorge the 
 baggage not having been able to advance farther during 
 the whole day. The advanced column reached the camp 
 near Ali Musjid, on the 5th, at about four p. m. In some 
 hours afterwards, the right rear arrived there. The Khy- 
 burrees, with whom were some of Akbar Khan'sl best 
 troops, were so licked the first day, that not a man was to 
 be seen. On the 6th, Ali Musjid was evacuated without a 
 blow, and no opposition was made to our advance, beyond 
 barricading and cutting up the road. A few bands of rob- 
 bers attacked the baggage, and carried oif everything 
 belouging to Smith and Edmonds. Khunder-Khan, a 
 Pass, where a few school boys, armed with stones, could 
 do infinite mischief, was undefended ; and it is now impos- 
 sible to look to places of immense strength, through which 
 we, though amongst our bitterest enemies, passed in safety, 
 without attributing it to a special interposition of Pro- 
 vidence in our favor. We reached Salpoora on the 10th, 
 and the Artillery forthwith amused themselves by pitching 
 shells into it, with a view of making it too hot for a Chief, 
 who had driven from the Musund his brother, our staunch 
 friend, Ali Turbay Khan, who befriended Ponsonby and 
 Herries, in their escape from Pesbolak. On the following 
 morning, Taylor went with a strong force to cross the 
 Cabul River, which intervened between a fort at some 
 
192 
 
 distance from our camp. The rascally Jez Jolchies, pre- 
 suming on the security derived from the river, fired some 
 long shots at us, without doing any damage, during the 
 first day ; and when they heard of Taylor's approach, they 
 decamped, having carried off all their moveable property 
 to the mountains. Taylor's party having two troopers 
 drowned at the fort, enjoying the pleasures of wet and 
 starvation, reaping no laurels, did not join us until the 13th. 
 On the 16th we arrived here, having previously heard the 
 somewhat unpleasant news of Sale's having sallied forth 
 with his gallant little band, without waiting for us, and 
 totally routing Akbar Khan, burning his camp and recap- 
 turing the guns, we lost during the Cabul massacre. 
 Poor Colonel Dennie was killed in an attempt to force 
 an impracticable breach in a small fort, which might, with- 
 out danger, have been left uncaptured in the rear. We 
 found the garrison much better off than our own ragged 
 .selves in every respect ; and they hardly looked as having 
 stood a five months' siege. The fort, over the walls of 
 which donkeys were driven when they first occupied it, we 
 found in a high state of defence, and it is most creditable 
 to all concerned ; the garrison also was animated by an 
 admirable spirit. They had constant work in the ditch, 
 and no grog, consequently scarce any crime or sickness ; 
 and in this instance, the Sepoys, 35th N. L, emulated the 
 Europeans. A Brigade has been sent back to escort the 
 31st and 6th N. L, and a troop of horse, through the Pass, 
 which is unbought, but partly occcupied by our allies, the 
 Sikhs. No carriages could be procured to bring our bag- 
 gage with them. We still occupy small palls, and suffer 
 much. The thermometer 106 at three o'clock, p.m. ; 
 mornings and evenings cool. We had hoped ere this to 
 have moved towards Gundamuck, a cooler and healthier 
 climate ; but the General as yet dare not move so far from 
 the chief district, from which we draw our supplies. These 
 
193 
 
 at first came in such small quantities, that it appeared im- 
 possible to avoid retiring now they are more plentiful ; 
 but I doubt much whether we shall be able to establish 
 magazines for so large a force to fall back, in the event of 
 an attempt to reach the Cabul tragedy during next winter. 
 
 All well amongst us. Old B has borne the work 
 
 better than we expected. Old Taylor, a fine soldier-like 
 fellow on service, he leads his regiment into action with a 
 will which must have its effect on the soldiers. Davis 
 cum multis aliis desires to be remembered. It was a 
 great disappointment not having the pleasure of licking 
 Master Akbar. 
 
 Extract of a Letter, dated Horse Guards, June 8th, 
 
 Sir I have seen General Pollock's report, and observed 
 with deep concern, that your son had fallen in the attack on 
 the Khybur Pass. 
 
 At such a moment I ought not, perhaps, to intrude upon 
 your grief, and yet, having seen two of poor Lieutenant 
 Cumming's letters, and remarked the propriety of feeling 
 they displayed his anxiety to do his duty, and his confi- 
 dence of success, I cannot refrain from expressing to you 
 my sincere participation in your affliction, and my regret 
 that an officer of so much promise should have been lost to 
 his country at so early a period of life. 
 
 I have the honour to be, Sir, 
 
 Your most faithful servant, 
 To the Rev. P. M. Gumming. FITZROY SOMERSET. 
 
 Copy of Lieutenant L 's Letter, of Her Majesty's 9th 
 
 Foot, dated Cambridge, 2lst July, 1842. 
 
 My dear Sir I regret much that I had not the pleasure 
 of seeing you, for I should have been better able to 
 
194 
 
 express my sentiments concerning one, now no more, to 
 whom I was linked in no ordinary ties of friendship. 
 
 I know not whether your late son ever mentioned my 
 name, or the intimacy that existed between us, but if we 
 had been brothers we could not have been more connected 
 together in everything. 
 
 I had, therefore, full opportunity to know and appre- 
 ciate those qualities which adorned him. It will be a con- 
 solation, I know, my dear Sir, for you to learn, that as far 
 as we poor mortals are able to judge, not a man living was 
 better prepared to meet his death, come when it might, 
 than your lamented son ; he was a Christian in every sense 
 of the word. His Bible was his constant companion, and 
 never day passed that he did not consult it. You ask me, 
 whether he was ever despondent, and whether, if so, it 
 produced any unhappiness ? Feel assured, that he was far 
 too happy a disposition, and much too religious, ever to be 
 downcast or unhappy at an imaginary evil, which he 
 ever looked upon death to be; having been once at the 
 point of death from serious illness, as I dare say you are 
 aware of, he felt that his health had not been very strong, 
 and that he was ever liable to a fresh attack, which might 
 carry him off, and would, therefore, sometimes say to me, 
 I fear I shall never return home ; but it produced no 
 despondency, for he ever felt that his life was in the hands 
 of the Almighty, and would cheerfully resign it when 
 called upon. 
 
 The death of my esteemed friend is an irreparable loss 
 to me. I valued and loved him as a friend, admired and 
 respected him as a man ; and there are many in the regi- 
 ment who will feel his loss deeply. 
 
 I but lately received a letter from an esteemed friend, a 
 
 Captain of my corps, a particular friend both of your 
 
 late son and myself, who mentions our loss, and gives the 
 description of the passage of the Pass. I have also received a 
 
195 
 
 letter from a brother, who informs me that he received a not3 
 from my poor friend the day before the engagement, that he 
 wrote in high spirits, and was looking forwards to the next 
 day's event with a soldier's glee. My brother wishes to 
 know whether he should send the letter home, as I might 
 wish to see it ; if, therefore, you would like to have it as 
 some further memento, pray let me know. I am now again 
 about to leave Cambridge for some time, as I am going to 
 stay some time with a relation in the country. I shall be 
 most anxious to hear that my letter has reached you in 
 safety, I hope, therefore, you will write me a few lines ; 
 I shall ever feel happy to answer any questions, or give 
 you any further information upon a subject so interesting 
 to us both. I wrote to the regiment by this mail, to 
 enquire if I could but get any little memento of my friend. 
 I shall be glad to learn when you expect to be in town, as 
 I shall certainly endeavour to be there then also. Any 
 letters for the next month, directed to me, care of my rela- 
 tive, Right Hon. the Earl of Lindsey, Uffington House, 
 Stamford, will reach me and will make a point of writing 
 if I remove to any other part of England. Having, I hope, 
 sincerely afforded you some consolation, and thrown some 
 light upon your excellent son's latter life " m,y ever dear 
 and ever to be lamented friend" let me take my leave, 
 assuring you that he holds a place in my estimation which 
 no length of time will efface. 
 
 Believe me, my dearest Sir, 
 
 Yours sincerely, 
 
 To Rev. Mr. Gumming, 
 
 Magheracloone House, Kingscourt. 
 
 o 2 
 
196 
 
 From Ensign William Cumming, of Her Majesty's 25th 
 Foot, to Ensign Robt. Gordon Gumming, H.M. 9th Foot. 
 
 Poonamallee, Madras, Sept. 16th, 
 
 My dear Robert Yesterday I was informed by a bro- 
 ther officer of your appointment to the 9th Foot. I need 
 scarcely remark, that the " congratulations" which at ano- 
 ther time would be offered, could only now fall bitter and 
 galling to your feelings. All my thoughts, hopes, antici- 
 pations, even my very existence, have a mournful and 
 melancholy veil thrown over them by the premature and 
 unexpected death of poor James. How feebly does any 
 preferred consolation alleviate the distress of mind, or 
 lighten the heart of its burden of sorrow ; yet one thing is 
 most grateful to the mourner, that he died when so well 
 prepared and so young. Had he been spared for old age, 
 he could not be so happy or so sinless as in a better world ; 
 he fell when nobly performing those duties which were 
 expected from him by his country, and for which he was 
 so well calculated to succeed. 
 
 How many thousands would give worlds if they pos- 
 sessed them, to die such a death, not to speak of the many 
 great men who, in despair at the failure of their hopes, put 
 an end to their lives. 
 
 My prayer will ever be, and now is, may I a sinner die 
 under similar circumstances, and as well prepared as he 
 was to die, a soldier's death, whenever it may please the 
 Almighty. 
 
 I was always attached to my present profession, and hope 
 that I shall ever be embued with the high-minded princi- 
 ples, which this esprit creates ; thus I can well appreciate 
 his feelings on going into action, and those of his com- 
 panions in arms, when they saw him stretched on the 
 
197 
 
 "field of his fame, fresh, and gory." I have brother 
 officers for whom, seeing in that situation, I should shed 
 tears of sorrow and regret. What do I feel ? How much 
 do I mourn, when reflecting on the memory of one so brave 
 one so gentle. How well his friend describes him ; and 
 you will remember when we were boys at school, he bore the 
 same amiable virtuous character. Alas ! the blank never can 
 be filled up. He died as he lived honourable and honoured ; 
 his mind unsullied with vice, his conscience guiltless. The 
 page of history knows not his virtues, or his talents, to 
 record them but it will bear his name and exploit to an 
 admiring posterity; the crags of the Khybur are his best 
 monument, and the wind that sighs through them his best 
 dirge. Farewell to him ! may his soul rest in heaven ! 
 
 Join me in turning to a different and less melancholy 
 subject, when it is to turn my thoughts homeward, and to 
 remaining objects of regard. You enter your corps under 
 the best auspices every hand will be open, every heart 
 will be that of sympathy. You will like India, where to 
 live it is only necessary to be temperate, and avoid expo- 
 sure to the sun. This month is considered to be the worst 
 in the year ; nevertheless, there is not much to complain 
 of. With regard to outfit, so important a point to young 
 officers, I will mention what I have seen useful or useless. 
 Uniform is nearly half as cheap here as it is at home ; as 
 an instance, many officers have had foraging caps made of 
 an elegant pattern, for 14s. they would pay more than 
 double that sum in England. I have had military drill 
 trowsers made up for 3s. a pair ; and as they are of a tex- 
 ture more suited to this climate, I wear them on all occa- 
 sions in uniform : in fact, there is scarcely a single article 
 that is not cheaper out here. Saddlery, &c. can be pur- 
 chased at one half the price of that at home ; Wellingtons, 
 which I now wear when in uniform, cost 4s. a pair, of a 
 fashionable cut; patent leather dress boots, 10s. ; but one 
 
198 
 
 of English boots, with boxes, are necessary at first. In 
 fact, the great object appears to me to be, to have sufficient 
 clothes for the voyage, and patterns of the latest cut for 
 uniform trowsers, boots, &c. &c. 
 
 I am afraid the public at home will not sufficiently 
 appreciate the exploit of opening the Khybur Pass ; but it 
 must be acknowledged to be a more brilliant affair than 
 either the taking of Ghuznee or Khelat, considering that 
 Pollock had only one European corps besides the intense 
 heat. You will, however, soon be enabled to judge when 
 you join. Love to the governor, Harriet, Helena, and 
 John. 
 
 I remain ever yours, 
 
 WM. CUMMING. 
 
 Camp near Peshawar, Nov. 6th, 1842. 
 
 My dear Sir Your letter of the 28th of August reached 
 me yesterday, almost in sight of the melancholy spot where 
 my friend, your son, met his untimely death ; and I per- 
 ceived with much regret, that you had not received a note 
 which I addressed to you on the 9th of April, conveying 
 the sad intelligence of that event. The above note, as 
 also one which I sent off on the 4th of August, was directed 
 to you at Naas, which doubtless has been the cause of its 
 not reaching you. I now, however, hasten to comply with 
 the request conveyed in your letter, by giving you a detailed 
 account of the circumstances attending the death of your 
 son, and I will then in succession'' reply to the several ques- 
 tions which you have put to me. 
 
 It was early in the morning, on the 5th of April, that I 
 saw my friend almost for the last time. We were, as you 
 are aware, living in the same tent, and he then left me to 
 join his company, full of spirit and hope, having, as indeed 
 
199 
 
 he was always accustomed to do, both morning and evening, 
 in whatever situation he might be placed, committed his 
 soul and body to the keeping of the Almighty. 
 
 The attack on the hill to the right of the Khybur 
 Pass was made in three columns the left under Major 
 Anderson; the centre, with which your son's company 
 was posted, under Colonel Taylor ; and the right, com- 
 posed entirely of native troops, under Captain Gahan, 
 26 th N. I. The difficulty of ^ascent was very great, as 
 is always the case in this mountain warfare. The hill 
 was crowned and cleared by a few of the strongest men, at 
 the head of whom was your son, while many were still 
 struggling up its broken face ; while Major Anderson 
 occupied the important post already won. It was at this 
 moment that I saw your son for the last time. He was 
 giving directions concerning the safety of one of his men, 
 who was wounded, and then hurried back towards the 
 point at which he crowned the ridge, to collect the remain- 
 der of his men ; he here found that Captain Gahan's party, 
 who did not reach the summit until some short time after 
 the column on his left, was warmly opposed by a body of 
 the enemy, advancing from the still more lofty range on 
 his right ; to this party, therefore, your son, availing him- 
 self of the most favourable ground at hand, attached himself, 
 and placing himself at their head, gained the post, and held 
 it. Major Anderson occupied the post at first gained ; and 
 Taylor in the meantime descended; and your son was 
 ordered to occupy a post in the rear. But as no benefit 
 could have been derived from continuing to occupy that 
 post, which was partly commanded by the neighbouring 
 ground ; he * was again ordered to withdraw to the posi- 
 tion which he (Major A. himself) had taken up, and it was, 
 as you have been correctly informed, while doing this that 
 
 * Why was he ordered there at first ? 
 
200 
 
 your son met his death from a ball, which pierced his 
 temple. The enemy, who move in their own mountains 
 with a rapidity to which we are strangers, and were in this 
 instance peculiarly favoured by the nature of the ground,* 
 occupied the, peak immediately that our troops were with- 
 drawn, and opened a galling fire upon them in their retreat. 
 My narrative now brings me to the painful fact of my not 
 having the sad satisfaction of burying my friend. When 
 he fell, his men were extended in skirmishing order, and 
 the one or two who were near at hand, and observed his 
 fall, being fatigued with the labour they had undergone 
 under a burning sun, and pressed by the enemy, were 
 unable to convey his body to the rear. My sorrow at the 
 death of my companion was much increased by this inci- 
 dent ; it was, however, consolatary to reflect, that in his 
 case there was such strong reason to hope, that the spirit 
 rested with God. Such, my dear Sir, are the circumstances 
 connected with the death of your lamented son ; and I 
 have only to add, that so far from its being a disadvantage 
 to be removed from his own company to command another, 
 such command would be considered as a distinction. The 
 company to which he was posted was No. 6, of his own 
 regiment. Your other questions you will find answered 
 above. You will then perceive that your son's not having 
 descended with Colonel Taylor, arose from the accidental 
 call for his services elsewhere. 
 
 32, Montague Square. 
 
 My dear Sir I have had the pleasure of receiving your 
 letter from Dublin, of the 7th instant, and regret that I 
 should have been out of town when you called, as I should 
 have been happy to have consulted with you on the subject 
 of raising a tablet to the memory of your much-regretted 
 
 * Of course, the enemy knew the ground well, 
 
; S 
 
 KHYBER PASS. 
 
 A. .*/// Hfujht. /Jictr .f/nwt/M/. hold/-.cemmandmg </// //// yrtwid in tfx mu* 
 
 B. &tuUI'~pvint #ubiHi#fjll0it&wr>t>sed< fr> a ga/liiu/Ju't Jr&m a spiu: ivftu/i pn 
 /r/y/Vw /A' .Mtmrut-& tunuruf marly paralM tc lJu //////// It fight. 
 
 C. (wninmfiJiM-Jrvm <-a <s/n>( J'ind J'wm B ////(?' Tvfreatingjrrtn l/iftic 
 
 D. X1i<>i4/d<r HctH.?ttfd try ti 
 

201 
 
 son. On leaving my regiment, I gladly offered to do every 
 thing in my power towards carrying out the intentions of 
 my brother officers, but I have been expecting fuller par- 
 ticulars as to the nature of the inscription, &c. &c. I am 
 aware that it was the intention of the officers of my regi- 
 ment to consult your wishes, and be decided by you ; and 
 I think it would be better if you would kindly express 
 what you would prefer either to me or to B r. 
 
 I expect to hear from my regiment by the next mail, 
 and if not, I will write out immediately for the amount of 
 subscription, and then there will be no delay in accom- 
 plishing the wishes of the officers. 
 
 I need hardly say how much I felt the loss of your son. 
 It is, indeed, the custom to praise those who have departed, 
 but this is not the case with respect to poor Gumming, for 
 he was certainly the subaltern most respected and looked up 
 to, both as an officer and a gentleman, in the whole regi- 
 ment ; and in this sentiment I feel that every man in the 
 9th would concur. I remain, dear Sir, 
 
 Very truly yours, 
 
 October 18th. F. L . 
 
 Camp, Ferozepoor, Jan. 13th, 1843. 
 
 My dear Sir I have much pleasure in informing you that 
 
 it is the general wish of the officers to erect a tablet to the 
 
 memory of their fallen comrade ; and under the idea that 
 
 such a measure will be most gratifying to his surviving 
 
 friends, Captain L has kindly undertaken to make the 
 
 necessary arrangements on reaching England to have this 
 mark of their esteem forwarded and erected in your own 
 church ; but should you desire any other site, pray do not 
 scruple to say so. Let the haste in which I write plead 
 my excuse for any omissions ; and 
 
 Believe me, my dear Sir, 
 
 Yours, very faithfully, 
 
 A. B . 
 
P. S. I have forgotten to state that your son had given 
 his sword and pistols to the servant who accompanied him, 
 and who remained behind as ordered when he returned to 
 collect his men ; this was the cause of their falling into my 
 possession. His telescope and watch fell into the hands of 
 the enemy. His sword, also, was preserved, but I much 
 regret to say that it was stolen on the march almost imme- 
 diately; and although a handsome reward was offered 
 through the camp for its recovery, it was not restored. 
 
 I can safely assure you, that your second son will not be 
 treated as a stranger on reaching the corps ; and I have no 
 
 doubt but that from Major D , who always regarded 
 
 your lamented son as a brother, he will receive a hearty 
 welcome. 
 
 Extract of a Letter from Major , C.B., dated 20th 
 
 November, 1843. 
 
 32, Montague Square. 
 
 My dear Sir I am now ready to take steps for the 
 erection of you son's monument, as soon as you shall have 
 determined whether it should be put up in Naas or in 
 Bath. Would you kindly come to a decision on this point ; 
 and if you have any particular choice as to the nature of 
 the inscription but, perhaps, you will leave that to me. 
 Should you determine on having the tablet put up in the 
 church at Bath, I shall soon go down there, and shall be 
 better able to superintend the work. I am glad to find the 
 regiment have subscribed 100. for the monument, which 
 will, I trust, enable me to place a proper tablet to the 
 memory of your gallant and much-lamented son. Hoping 
 you will give an early answer, 
 
 I remain, dear Sir, 
 
 Very truly yours, 
 
203 
 
 Extract of a Letter from George Franco, Esq., to the Rev. 
 Mr. Gumming, dated Meerut, 10th August, 1843. 
 
 My dearest Sir I have had the pleasure to receive your 
 letter respecting your late lamented son, James. When the 
 9th regiment were suddenly ordered to march from Meerut, 
 Mrs. F. and I were absent on a visit to the Deputy- 
 Governor of Agra ; but poor James called on his aunt, 
 who had remained here to say Adieu ! I wrote to General 
 Sir John McCaskill, K.C.B., commanding the regiment, 
 and I have the pleasure to enclose his reply, the latter part 
 of which will be gratifying to your feelings. Poor James 
 very soon gained our esteem and affection. He was an 
 honour to his profession as a soldier and his character as 
 a Christian was exemplary. 
 
 I am, my dearest Sir, 
 
 Ever sincerely yours, 
 
 The Rev. Mr. Gumming, G. FRANCO. 
 
 The Abbey, Naas. 
 
 Extract of a Letter from Major- General Sir John Me Cas- 
 kill, K.C.B., dated Subathoo, 21st of July, 1843. 
 
 My dear Franco I have the pleasure to acknowledge 
 your letter of the 15th, via Kussowlie, regarding the 
 affairs of our poor young friend, the gallant Gumming. I 
 can inform you, that as far as they were in any way con- 
 nected with the 9th, they were all settled as the then situ- 
 ation of the regiment would admit of; and his arrears and 
 proceeds of effects were remitted to the Secretary-of-War, 
 for the benefit of his father, amounting to Rs.1621 15 5. 
 A house, the property of deceased, at Hazerabagh, is still, 
 I am told, unsold ; and I fear, that from the length of time 
 it has remained unoccupied, it cannot now be of much 
 value ; but if it were otherwise, as there seems no prospect 
 
204 
 
 of any troops being stationed there, the chances of sale are 
 very bad indeed. It will be gratifying to the family of 
 poor young Gumming to find that such was the regard and 
 esteem in which he was held by his brother officers, that 
 they have determined on a subscription among themselves, 
 to have a monument erected to his memory in the church 
 of his native parish ; and the amount, being 1000 rupees, 
 
 was intrusted to Major L n with that view and he was 
 
 immediately on arriving in England to take steps for 
 carrying this intention into effect. 
 
 My ladies are to go up to Simla for a month ; J is 
 
 there already, having gone to Mrs. Clark's balls. With 
 our kindest regards to your trio, 
 
 I remain, my dear Franco, 
 
 Ever sincerely yours, 
 JOHN MCCASKILL. 
 
 MEMORANDUM. 
 
 I bought the small bungalow, rented by Captain Faber, 
 and belonging to Major Stephens, for the sum of 700 
 rupees (house and ground attached), agreeing to pay him 
 that sum within ten months. I entered it on Saturday, 
 December 29th, 1838 marched into Hazerabagh, Decem- 
 ber 29th, 1838. 
 
 JAMES SLATOR GUMMING. 
 
 Dinapore, August 13th, 1839. 
 
 My dear Sir Your letter, enclosing a draft on the col- 
 lector of Patna for 700 Company 's rupees, being in full of 
 all demands for the purchase of my small bungalow, at 
 Hazerabagh (and for which I beg you to accept my thanks), 
 arrived yesterday. 
 
 We have some talk of a camp being about to be formed 
 on the Nepaulese frontier, towards the end of the year ; 
 
205 
 
 however, nothing positive is yet known, and if there should 
 be, we consider it would be only for three or four months, 
 during the settling accounts with the Burmese. In that 
 case we should all leave our families behind, as we think 
 each regiment would be ordered back to its old quarters. 
 
 Believe me, my dear Sir, 
 
 To J. S. Gumming, Esq., Very truly yours, 
 
 Her Majesty's 9th Foot. F. STEPHENS. 
 
 MEMORANDUM. 
 
 * Required one draft on the collector of Patna for the 
 sum of seven hundred Company's rupees, payable to Major 
 Stephens, Her Majesty's 49th regiment, for a bungalow, at 
 this station, and bond fide savings from my pay and allow- 
 ances. 
 
 J. S. GUMMING. 
 Hazerabagh, 8th August, 1839. 
 Major Lewis Boult. 
 
 Account with Ensign Tronson-j* 
 
 House rent for March, 1840, by Boult's bill 25 
 
 Balance for furniture, &c. &c 33 
 
 Rent for April and May, as by letter, dated 
 
 June 7th 50 
 
 Rent of June, spent in repairs, owing for 
 
 July, August, September, and October ... 100 
 
 Carried forward 208 
 
 * It appears the agreement was payment within ten months, and by 
 these documents the payment of the purchase money was made in eight 
 months. 
 
 f* Those various letters of these officers prove the simplicity and 
 purity of their dealings. 
 
206 
 
 Account with Captain Olphert 
 
 House rent for December, January, Febru- 
 ary, deducting 32 rupees for repairs 58 
 
 Ditto for March, April, and May, deducting 
 
 25 rupees for repairs 65 
 
 123 
 Ensign Tronson's account 208 
 
 331 
 
 Add deductions for repairs 82 
 
 While unlet three months , 80 
 
 493 
 
 My dear Sir I have very great pleasure in enclosing to 
 you an order on the Agra bank for the 100 rupees which 
 I have been indebted to you so long. I must apologise 
 for being so long in your debt, but the fact is, I have been 
 greatly disappointed lately with regard to money matters. 
 
 I hope you like Meerut. Gonzapore is the most horrible 
 place I have ever been in. I suppose you have heard of 
 Hazerabagh's having turned out most unhealthy. Boult 
 has to proceed to England on medical certificate ; Alcock 
 is going home also. What a melancholy thing poor Alling's 
 death was. There is not one person now at Hazerabagh 
 that we knew when our corps were there. Hoping the 
 time is not far distant, when I may have the pleasure of 
 becoming personally acquainted with you, 
 
 Believe me, my dear Sir, 
 
 Yours very sincerely, 
 
 ROBERT H TRONSON. 
 
207 
 
 Hazerabagh, June llth, 1847. 
 
 My dear Sir I beg leave to enclose an order for the 
 sum of sixty -five rupees three months rent, due up to the 
 7th of this month, I think. I am sorry at the same time 
 to say, preparatory to the rains setting in, I have been 
 obliged to expend in repairs of the house, &c. the sum 
 of twenty-five rupees; yet I assure you, I have not laid 
 out one fraction more than was absolutely necessary to 
 render it habitable viz. in rendering the roof and other 
 little repairs which would, if neglected, become heavy on 
 the rent. However, I trust the next remittance will be 
 untouched ; yet, after the rains, a little green paint for the 
 doors and windows, would not only make the bungalow 
 have a smart appearance, but would, at the same time, be 
 of great service as likewise whitewashing the whole in- 
 side and outside. No news in this dull place. We are 
 anxiously looking out for the rains it is rather hot here at 
 this season of the year. Please to acknowledge the receipt 
 
 of this at your convenience. 
 
 Yours truly, 
 
 C. OLPHERT. 
 
 Extract of a Letter from Capt. , of Her Majesty 's 9t/i 
 
 Foot, to his Mother, dated Jellalabad, YitJi April, 1842. 
 
 On the 5th of April we got under arms, having two or 
 three days before moved our force to within about three 
 miles of the Pass, close to the Sikh fort of Nimrood ; from 
 our position here we had ocular demonstration that the 
 Khybur Pass was indeed yet unbought, and that its inha- 
 bitants were determined to oppose our entrance, for crowds 
 of the enemy were seen at the mouth of the Pass, busily 
 employed in erecting breast-works, and other defences. 
 We moved in three columns towards the Pass and the hills 
 on either side, by daylight. We were nearly within gun- 
 shot. Colonel Taylor commanded the right column, and 
 
208 
 
 our duty was to crown the hills on that side of the Pass. 
 The enemy, as soon as they perceived us, set up a yell, and 
 
 beat a in defiance. They were assembled at the 
 
 foot of their hills in great force ; but as we advanced stea- 
 dily up towards them, they retired up the hills, and, cover- 
 ing themselves behind walls and breast-works, opened a 
 very sharp fire upon us. This we returned with interest, 
 mounting the hills after them all the while. The right 
 hill may be likened to a succession of gigantic steps, from 
 the top of each perpendicular part the enemy fired upon us ; 
 but it was of no avail their defending the hill step by step ; 
 we forced them from post to post, climbing the almost 
 perpendicular parts, till we at last, after more than one 
 hour's hard work, found ourselves on the crest of their 
 most stupendous hill ; their strongest post was ours. The 
 scene, indeed, was exciting ; it was like looking down into 
 a little new world, the commanding height of the hill we 
 had taken enabling us to look down upon all the other hills 
 in the Pass, the crowning of which was to be our next 
 work, for a deep ravine intervened between us and the 
 next hills. The almost perpendicular face of the hill we 
 were on was covered on the opposite side to the one which 
 we forced, with parties of the enemy trying to escape ; and 
 many were here sent to their last account. After we had 
 peppered these gentlemen, we inclined to our left to get 
 near the mouth ; but just here, I am sorry to say, poor 
 Lieutenant Gumming was shot dead in the moment of 
 victory almost the last shot fired by the enemy on that 
 hill. Poor fellow ! but he met a soldier's fate, and died as 
 a soldier should. He was a strong principled religious 
 young officer, who never thrust his principles or faith upon 
 others, but always acted strictly up to their spirit. He is 
 now in a better world. I pity not him ; but alas ! for his 
 poor mother. He was the only officer killed in the action. 
 
Extract of a Letter from Sir Henry Lyssington, dated 
 Montague Square, December 30th, 1842. 
 
 My dear Sir As to those military men who think that 
 Government has been too liberal, I only wish they were 
 either starving, burning, or freezing, as our poor fellows 
 have been in that wretched country ; and if any are dis- 
 posed to think my son did not deserve his honours, I 
 merely wish them a bullet in the head.* 
 
 I feel that there is a strong link between us. If it 
 pleased God to take your gallant son, you have the conso- 
 lation of knowing, that he died honored, respected, beloved, 
 and lamented by all his comrades. 
 
 Believe me, my dear Sir, 
 
 Yours faithfully, 
 From Colonel Chambers HENRY LYSSINGTON. 
 
 To Rev. Mr. Gumming. 
 
 Cannanore, April 16th. 
 
 My dear Sir Your son, Mr. Gumming, has expressed 
 to me his ardent wish to be removed to a cavalry regiment 
 coming to India, believing that his military career would 
 be greatly benefited thereby. I can assure you that I 
 greatly regretted a combination of unexpected and unusual 
 circumstances precluded me from recommending him in 
 the first instance, for the situation of interpreter to the 
 regiment ; and in the second, for the adjutancy. It was 
 my desire to have marked my appreciation of his merits, 
 and of his application in one of these substantial ways. Ill 
 luck seems to have gathered around him at the very mo- 
 ment his prospects appeared the brightest ; for in addition 
 to his loss of two lucrative appointments, had it not been 
 
 * Major Lushington, C.B., was struck on the head by a ball on the 
 Tezeen heights, while clearing them of the enemy, which knocked him 
 over and over. 
 
210 
 
 for the India mail, which took home the return of his name 
 for purchase, arriving in England a fortnight later * than the 
 
 * It is to be remarked here, the delay of the mail should not have 
 prejudiced Ensign Cumming's promotion, and that his being noted 
 for purchase should have been taken from the date of the dispatch 
 from the regiment ; this injury, however, it is presumed, is attributable 
 to Cox and Co., the wealthy and powerful army agents. The mail which 
 brought home the return of Ensign William Cumming's name by pur- 
 chase, was lost with the steamer in the Red Sea, and the second mail 
 arrived a fortnight too late ; the casualty which occurred by the loss 
 of the steamer ought not to prejudice officers on foreign service. He has 
 been, last April, transferred to the 32nd Queen's regiment, now serving in 
 Bengal, and has been appointed interpreter to that corps, he having 
 been duly qualified, and having passed the examination required there 
 in the native language. Ensign Robert Gordon Gumming, the next 
 brother, is now a lieutenant in Her Majesty's 9th Foot, and was present 
 at the battles of Moodkee, Fierozeshah, and Sobraon, and through the 
 entire of the campaign on the Sutlej, and obtained a medal. A rather 
 curious disappointment happened to this young officer he was gazetted 
 (to fill the vacancy created by his brother's fall on the Khybur hills) on 
 the 22nd of July, 1843, the vacancy having occurred on the 5th of April 
 previous ; and in the October following, Ensign Thomas was brought 
 in from the 57th, and placed above him, to fill the vacancy caused by 
 the death of Lieutenant Me Caskill, at Jellalabad, on the llth of July, 
 that is, three months and six days after the one to which' Ensign Gum- 
 ming was appointed by Lord Hill to fill ; and Ensign Thomas's appoint- 
 ment is dated llth of July, the very day Lieutenant Me Caskill died at 
 Jellalabad, although Sir Jaspar Nicholls, in Bengal, could not have 
 heard of the event for several days after. Ensign Cumming's father 
 applied to the Horse Guards to request that the injustice might be 
 corrected, supposing it was by mistake ; and after some correspondence, 
 he was at length peremptorily told, " that Sir Jaspar Nicholl's recom- 
 mendation of Ensign Thomas having been confirmed in this country, 
 they could not alter the existing dates of the commissions of those 
 ensigns of the 9th." 
 
 This was additional cause of great mental suffering to the father, 
 who, after having brought up and highly educated his sons, they having 
 had a college education, and after otherwise endeavouring, as a clergy- 
 man in Ireland for thirty eventful years, thus to qualify his sons to 
 eminently serve their sovereign and country yet to find a person 
 without claim, thus brought and thrust into the place, purchased with 
 the beat blood of his amiable and heroic eldest son. What right had 
 Sir Jaspar Nicholls to do this injustice, and, what were the claims of 
 
usual period, he would not have felt his disappointment of 
 being passed over in his promotion by two ensigns. It is 
 to be observed, that even that unfortunate circumstance 
 alone would have rendered him ineligible for the adjutancy, 
 as I was advised to recommend a lieutenant for the appoint- 
 ment. I must remark, that I see no chance of his advance- 
 ment, or other benefits for him in the 25th regiment ; and, 
 therefore, as I think him far superior in education, habits, 
 and especially professional zeal, to the majority of young 
 men when they enter the army, it is a pity that his abilities 
 should be buried, as it were, in a regiment where he has 
 now no cheering prospect ; and I should be glad indeed if 
 you could accomplish his wishes, by obtaining his removal 
 to a cavalry regiment coming to this country. 
 Believe me faithfully yours, 
 
 COURTNEY CHAMBERS. 
 
 Extract of a Letter from Ensign Gumming, the third brother, 
 of Her Majesty's 9th Foot, dated 22nd July, 1844, 
 Kussowlie. 
 
 You may imagine our astonishment at the recall of 
 Lord Ellenborough, for he is no less a favourite with the 
 
 Ensign Thomas, to justify his being placed above one who filled a 
 vacancy created above three months before the one into which Ensign 
 Thomas was thrust. This infliction of injustice has constantly re- 
 turned to and afflicted the father of these martial youths ; after having 
 spent a long life, and expended all he could command in educating and 
 elevating the minds and feelings of his sons, to become highly qualified 
 servants of their country and their sovereign, anything but injustice he 
 could patiently bear even the loss of his sons, and the loss of his 
 amiable eldest son, though painful oh ! more than painful yet it was 
 sweetened and consoled by the sense of honour, by the knowledge that 
 he died discharging a soldier's and a hero's duty to his country and 
 his most gracious Sovereign. There were many other consoling 
 circumstances, viz. the knowledge that he was so good, humble, and 
 sincere, and pure a Christian that his fall was attended with military 
 glory, and honour, and recompense, in the remembrance and love of 
 his heroic, his beloved companions in arms and dangers. 
 
Royal Army than with that of the Company's. We imme- 
 diately started the project of a general subscription, to 
 present him with a sword, or a gold service of plate ; the 
 feeling in general all over India is in favour of the propo- 
 sition. The press of Bengal, I am sorry to say, are exert- 
 ing their contemptible efforts in endeavouring, as they call 
 it, to sink him lower ; even the Delhi Gazette has joined 
 the rest. The Englishman, and Friend of India, are ex- 
 ceptions. We are all anxious to know what Sir H. Har- 
 dinge will do; with Lord E. at the head of affairs, we 
 expected to have entered the Punjaub next cold weather. 
 Lord E. remains until Sir Henry arrives, and as the latter 
 has approved of all the former's measures, he may yet order 
 the advance of the army to the Punjaub, which we all 
 heartily wish for. 
 
 Charles Francis Gumming, the fourth brother, served 
 his country on board a frigate for nearly four years, in the 
 Pacific, and returned with a character remarkable for pro- 
 priety, morality, and good conduct. He is now employed 
 in a civil department, being suffering from a liver com- 
 plaint. 
 
 John Hunt Gumming, the fifth and youngest son, was 
 gazetted to an ensigncy in the 25th regiment, or King's- 
 own Borderers, by purchase, on the 9th of June, 1846; 
 and after a leave of absence granted, he joined the depot at 
 Chatham, under strict orders, on the 31st of October fol- 
 lowing. He was the subaltern of the day on duty in the 
 garrison, on the 12th day of November. Here follows a 
 copy of his report : 
 
 Provisional Battalion Subaltern of the Day's Report. 
 Chatham Barracks, Nov. 13th 1846. 
 1 . The men were all reported present at Reveille, except 
 Private John Coulter, 24th regiment, John Gaily, John 
 Hill, Joseph Willy, 31st regiment. 
 
213 
 
 2. I attended the Captain of the day at the inspection of 
 bread and meat, at seven o'clock. 
 
 3. At a quarter before eight o'clock, I saw the break- 
 fasts of the men regularly paraded, and sent to their 
 respective guards. 
 
 4. At breakfast hour I saw the men regularly paraded 
 in the rooms; they were all reported present, except 
 Privates John Coulter, 24th regiment; John Gaily, John 
 Hill, Joseph Willy, 31st regiment. 
 
 5. At ten o'clock I visited the barrack-rooms ; found 
 them clean and well ventilated, and the bedding folded 
 agreeably to order. 
 
 6. I visited the battalion prisoners confined in the guard- 
 rooms, defaulter-rooms, and cells, and found them regular 
 and no complaints. 
 
 7. I saw the dinners of the men on duty regularly 
 paraded, and sent to their respective guards. 
 
 8. I visited the men's barrack-rooms at dinner hour, and 
 saw the men regularly paraded in the rooms ; they were 
 reported all present, except Privates John Coulter, 24th 
 regiment, Joseph Willy, 31st regiment. 
 
 9. I attended the Captain of the day when visiting the 
 hospital. 
 
 10. I visited the barracks at half-past two, P.M., and 
 found the rooms agreeably to order the dinner utensils 
 clean and put by ; and the men's rooms also clean and in 
 good order. 
 
 11. I visited the battalion school at half-past two, P.M. ; 
 the children were reported present, and all appeared clean 
 and regular. 
 
 12. I attended the defaulters' roll-call at half-past eleven 
 o'clock in the forenoon ; and at half-past two o'clock in the 
 afternoon ; and at half-past five o'clock in the evening, 
 after dark ; when all were reported present. 
 
 13. I visited the regimental guard at half-past eleven 
 
214 
 
 o'clock by day, and at half-past ten o'clock by night, when 
 all were reported correct. 
 
 14. At Tattoo, I collected the reports, when all the 
 men were reported to be present, except Privates John 
 Coulter, 24th regiment, Edward Clegg, 39th regiment, 
 James Nowlan, 18th regiment; and in half an hour after 
 I attended and saw the lights and fires extinguished. 
 
 15. I visited the men's barracks at supper hour, and saw 
 the men regularly paraded in the rooms ; they were reported 
 all present, except Privates John Coulter, 24th regiment, 
 Edward Clegg, 39th regiment. 
 
 JOHN HUNT CUMMING, Ensign, 25th Regt., 
 
 Subaltern of the Day. 
 To the Captain of the Day 
 on Battalion Duty. 
 
 Harriet, the eldest sister, has gone out (in August) to 
 Bengal, to visit her brothers, having been for some years 
 suffering with a rheumatic and nervous chronic visitation ; 
 the physicians recommended the voyage, and under God's 
 blessing, the most favourable results are accruing. 
 
 Helena, the youngest sister, is still in England. This 
 short notice is taken of the family, in consequence of the 
 constant interest which the eldest brother ever felt in their 
 happiness and welfare, and on account of their being so 
 often alluded to in his diary. And do thou, O God ! guide 
 and in mercy enable them to pursue the same pure, inno- 
 cent and happy course, to the end of their lives, which all 
 seem to accord to their eldest brother. 
 
 THE END. 
 
 MARTIX & HOOD, Lithographers and Printers, Great Newport Street. 
 

T HIS BOOK 
 
 
 A 
 
 DUE. == ========^ 
 
YC 4 1 
 
 511661 
 
 UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LIBRARY