Publisher's Synopsis
This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1884 edition. Excerpt: ...two hours. Table oVMte was at 7.30, and I had to appear in my riding-habit for lack of anything else. Such a curious set of people at table, and such curious English to be heard; a few ladies (save the mark!) looking and behaving as much like barmaids as they could. The influence of fashionable manners in high places is not happy in its effect on the manners of those who are not in high places, however faithful they may try to make the imitation. We are settled in very pleasant south rooms, the mountain-side stretching away from our hotel right down to the plains, which lie like a map spread out before us, the towns of Rajpiir and Dehra looking like white specks on it. This is the most lovely month in the hills--the rains over, and a fresh bright feeling in the air like a glorious September day in Scotland. The English papers are assuming a most warlike tone, and threatening the Viceroy with every editor's indignation should he refuse to march on Cabul instantly. They seem to think that crossing the frontier and opening a campaign in Afghanistan is like sending an army into Wales, and can be undertaken as promptly. It is very nice for the Viceroy having the proper course of action decided for him, but it takes off from the value of advice when the givers of it are irresponsible for consequences. Oct. 7.--Yesterday we took a long walk--i.e. Robert on his pony, and I in a dandy, a kind of canoe-shaped seat carried on two men's shoulders. Coming home, Robert by way of experiment took the place of one of my coolies, but did not move two steps before calling for the man to relieve him, who grinned as he resumed his place and trotted off with me. Robert says the weight on the shoulders is simply crushing, and yet four men (two and two by...
