We talked about expenses.

"I cannot conceive," he said, "how anybody at Calcutta can live on less than L3,000 a year, or can contrive to spend more than L4,000." We talked of the insects and snakes, and he said a thing which reminded me of his brother Sydney: "Always, Sir, manage to have at your table some fleshy, blooming, young writer or cadet, just come out; that the musquitoes may stick to him, and leave the rest of the company alone." I have been with George Babington to the Asia.

We saw her to every disadvantage, all litter and confusion; but she is a fine ship, and our cabins will be very good.

The captain I like much.

He is an agreeable, intelligent, polished man of forty; and very good-looking, considering what storms and changes of climate he has gone through.