Pièce 42 - Letter from unknown correspondent to R. C. Trevelyan

1 sheet

Trivandrum. - Apologises for being unable to write earlier, due to a backlog of work built up during his absence. Hopes that Trevelyan and Dickinson had a good trip to Columbo, and that his brother met them at Tuticorin and looked after them.

On returning from Quilon, saw 'His Highness' [Moolam Thirunal, Maharaja of Travancore] , who was glad Trevelyan and DIckinson had enjoyed their visit; he was 'interested to hear about the bathes [Trevelyan] enjoyed, but he was concerned about you running the risk of of a chill' and that the water in that lake was brackish, but the writer reassured him on both points.

Is happy to say that he found his wife well on his return; the doctors and midwife had obviously been wrong about the date she was due to give birth, which by her reckoning is towards the middle of the month. She still has some swelling, however. Thanks Trevelyan and Dickinson for their 'kind concern & sympathy in the matter'.

Their visit was the first time he was 'deputed to look after state guest'; fears there 'must have been many shortcomings', but assures them that there was 'no want of desire to please'. They have been 'very good' to him, and he is grateful. Hopes their further travels 'will continue to be pleasant and enjoyable'.

Adds postscript: The Dewan [chief minister: Sir Perungavur Rajagopalachari] was also pleased to hear they had a good time; told him that they had promised to write to him

Signature undeciphered: 'A. Jamudur' [?].