Letter from George Thompson, Calcutta, [India], to Richard Davis Webb, 1843 Feb[ruary] 24

George Thompson writes to Richard Davis Webb in regards to a misunderstanding with Lord Clifford for payment of a bill for printing lectures that Webb became involved in. He writes of his journey to India and of his time in Calcutta, mentioning that he has gone to "suppers, musical parties, Galas..I have gone wherever I have been invited, as my object is to see every thing, and as far as possible know every body." He writes of the people he is meeting and says, "My party averages about 230. There are those who understand English, and all of them are shrewd & well educated and at the same time of the highest class-Rajas, Baboos..Merchants, Public officers..I have lived wholly in the native town, and think I have won the confidence and affection of the people." He has made several speeches in the Town Hall and had had communication with the Raja of Saltara. He is not permitted to see the Raja without the presence of the President. He says he dreads the weather in the coming months and because of the climate, he stays at his desk from 6-6 writing addresses and resolutions of the society which he plans on sending to Webb.
Courtesy of Boston Public Library