Page:Lord Amherst and the British Advance Eastwards to Burma.djvu/188

180 It is only averted by the zeal of the magistrate, Mr. Colvin. Dúrjan Sál, the usurper of Bhartpur, is a prisoner in the Fort, and no doubt sadly watches these festivities from his casement.

The ex-Peshwa of the Maráthás is among the chiefs who come to pay their duty. 'His dress was uncommon—a small pointed gold turban; his diamonds and pearls were few, but large and splendid; his appearance and conversation were animated and sensible.'

From Allahábád began the land progress. During the earlier stages Lady Amherst was full of wonder at the magic ease with which the tent city was wafted from one halting-place to another, at the luxuriant beauty of the cultivated country, and—dearest praise of all to the active magistrates of the respective districts!—at the excellence of the roads.

From Nov. 6 to 10, 1826, they are marching, hunting, nnd hawking as they go to beguile the way. They reached Fatehpur, which had only lately been made a station, and in which the bungalows had still to be built, on Nov. 11; and Cawnpur, where they had an imposing reception, on the 18th.

On Nov. 20 the King of Oudh comes in great state to visit Lord Amherst. Twenty-two of his relations, all splendidly dressed, accompany him. Next day the English return the King of Oudh's visit, crossing by a bridge of boats. All the gentlemen were in their best uniforms. The King of Oudh entertained them at a handsome breakfast cooked by a French cook