_June 16_.--Day before yesterday, we came in sight of land, after
having been out only one hundred and twelve days. We could distinguish
nothing but the lowering mountains of Golconda. Yesterday we were nearer
land ... and the scene was truly delightful, reminding me of the
descriptions I have read of the fertile shores of India--the groves of
orange and palm trees. Yesterday we saw two vessels.... You have no idea
how interesting the sight--a vessel at the side of us, so near we could
hear the captain speak--for he was the first person we have heard speak
since we sailed, except what belong to our ship.

"_Tuesday_.--Last night was the most dangerous, and to me, by far the
most unpleasant we have had.... To-day the scene is truly delightful. We
are sailing up the river Hoogly, a branch of the Ganges, and so near the
land that we can distinctly discover objects. On one side of us are the
Sunderbunds, (islands at the mouth of the Ganges.) The smell which
proceeds from them is fragrant beyond description.

"_Wednesday_.--On each side of the Hoogly are the Hindoo cottages, as
thick together as the houses in our seaports. They are very small, and
in the form of hay-stacks, without either chimneys or windows. They are
situated in the midst of trees which hang over them and appear truly
romantic. The grass and fields of rice are perfectly green, and herds of
cattle are everywhere feeding on the banks of the river, and the natives
are scattered about, ... some fishing, some driving the team, and some
sitting indolently on the bank of the river. The pagodas we have passed
are much handsomer and larger than the houses. There are many English
seats near the shore.... Oh, what reason we have to be thankful for so
pleasant and prosperous a voyage....

"Well, sister, we are safe in Calcutta harbor, and almost stunned with
the noise of the natives. Mr. Judson has gone on shore to find a place
for us to go. The city is by far the most elegant of any I have ever
seen. Many ships are lying at anchor, and hundreds of natives all
around. They are dressed very curiously--their white garments hanging
loosely over their shoulders. But I have not time to describe anything
at present.

"_Thursday_.--Harriet and I are yet on board the vessel, and have not
been on land. Mr. Judson has not yet gained permission for us to live in
the country. He and Mr. Newell are gone again to-day, and what will be
their success I know not. The East India Comp