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 steamer, and the ‘Jupiter’ people had so set their hearts on taking us right up that we agreed not to desert the ship. Last night another steamer came down to help us, bringing the ‘Soonamookie’ (I have not an idea how it is spelt), George’s own yacht, manned by Hindoos in such lovely dresses, and bringing also Captain Byrne and Captain Taylor, one of Sir Charles’s aides-de-camp, and the military secretary. They gave us all the programme of to-day’s landing, and George has made Captain Byrne (who was at the head of Lord W. Bentinck’s establishment), one of his aides-de- camp; so that he will be our companion, our friend, our confidant, for the next five years.

George is very nervous this morning, and indeed we all wish it well over. The troops are all to be out, and we are to be met on the landing-place by the whole establishment, and it is so hot for a calm demeanour and so difficult to be smart. George and William will be in full dress, and I hope, after the first moment, Fanny and I shall be bundled off into one of the carriages. George is to walk through the line of the troops. Sir C. Metcalfe gives us a great dinner at Government House, and leaves it to us in the evening.