It may cheer the present generation to hear of past illuminations and rejoicings which are almost like those in a fairy tale, in which everybody is victorious and comes home unharmed. On the king's birthday, April 24, there is a grand entertainment at Government House; Combermere and Bhartpur in lamps on the right, Campbell and Ava in coloured lamps on the left, wreaths round the pillars, George IV in the centre also in lamps, with the appropriate accompaniments of star and crown. In the great ball-room were transparencies representing Lord Combermere leading the young Rájá into Bhartpur, followed by his staff, while a figure of Victory waved a laurel wreath. Also Sir Archibald Campbell on horseback with his steamer in the background, the Dagon Pagoda, and a nymph-like figure scattering olive branches,—India, Peace, Victory and other appropriate inscriptions were liberally scattered about, and the company danced till 3 o'clock in the morning.
Rejoicings, alas, do not last for ever, and troubles seem to be impending once more; the tidings of victory have been sent off to England, but it will take months before they arrive. On May 7, the usual letters are received from the Directors 'expressing alarm and general discontent; they are still meditating the recall of Lord Amherst, and we are in an unpleasant state of uncertainty.'
The King's speech arrives on May 30, 1826, in winch he speaks of the prospect of peace, and in
