The arrival of a fresh lady from England, especially of a 'spin,' which is short for spinster or unmarried woman, is an event of some importance in an Indian station.
Not, of course, so much in a place like this, because this is the center of a large district, but in a small station it is an event of the first importance.

The men are anxious to see what a newcomer is like for herself; the women, to look at her dresses and see the latest fashions from home, and also to ascertain whether she is likely to turn out a formidable rival.

However, today you can enjoy quiet; tomorrow you must attire yourself in your most becoming costume, and I will trot you round." "Trot me round, uncle ?" "Yes, my dear.

In India the order of procedure is reversed, and newcomers call in the first place upon residents." "What a very unpleasant custom, uncle; especially as some of the residents may not want to know them." "Well, everyone must know everyone else in a station, my dear, though they may not wish to be intimate.

So, about half past one tomorrow we will start." "What, in the heat of the day, uncle ?" "Yes, my dear.