I saw the advantages of
this proposition, and being by nature ambitious and fond of adventure, I
was pleased at the prospect of seeing England. After a little
hesitation my father consented to part with me, and I and my father
commenced our long journey from Delhi to Calcutta. In those early days
of my youth there were no railways in India; there was no Suez Canal,
and there were no steamers in the world. To reach England we embarked
at Calcutta in what was termed one of Green's ships--that is, a fine
East Indiaman, a full-rigged ship of about 1,000 tons--and having sailed
down the Hoogly river, commenced our four months' voyage, round the
Cape, and from thence by Saint Helena to England.

I can remember Delhi as it was in those days--its fine old fort, the
fortifications round the town, its long street, in which were the
bazaars and jewellers' shops. Many of the little native children to
whom I used to talk in my childhood were probably among those who,
during the Mutiny, were the murderers of my countrymen. Localities on
which I have sat with my ayah, and took my first steps, have since then
become famous as the places where our soldiers have fought and conquered
against overwhelming numbers. Though I have passed through many strange
scenes, I still remember Delhi, for it was my birthplace, and it has
ever had a charm for me on that account only.

After a journey of nearly a month we reached Calcutta, and were received
as guests by a friend who lived in Fort William. I was astonished at
the sight of the ships that were anchored close to the fort, for I had
no idea that any vessels could be so large. As the _Madagascar_--the
ship in which I was to sail--was ready for sea, we stayed but a few days
in Calcutta. I was placed in charge of the captain, bid my father
good-bye, promised to be a good boy and to do everything my uncle wished
me to do, and commenced my voyage to England.

On the second day after leaving Calcutta we entered the Bay of Bengal,
and with a fair wind sailed merrily over the dancing waves. During a
few days I was sea-sick; but I soon recovered, and was then much
interested in watching the sailors when they went aloft to take reefs in
the sails, or to take in a royal or studding-sail. There were several
passengers, and of all ages, many of whom, knowing that I was alone,
were very kind to me. There was one young lady about eighteen, who was
my special favourite, and who used to tell me st