All that I myself could and did take credit for was this "quality," as the prices obtained in Calcutta were the best of all the Company's gardens.
At Scottpore there was no lack of neighbours.

My bungalow was on two cross-roads, a half-way house so to speak; consequently someone was continually dropping in.

Frequently three or four visitors would arrive unannounced for dinner; the house was always "wide open." Whisky, brandy and beer were always on the sideboard, and in my absence the bearer or khansamah was expected, as a matter of course, to offer refreshments to all comers.

The planter's code of hospitality demanded this, but it was the financial ruin of the Chota Sahib, depending solely on his modest salary.
At Scottpore I went in strong for vegetable, fruit and flower gardening, and not without success.

Visitors came from a distance to view the flower-beds and eat my green peas, and I really think that I grew as fine pineapples and bananas as were produced anywhere.