entertained of their succeƒs. 6000 Europeans from this
country 2500 from the Cape and 1500 from the
garrison ^ ^{of Bourbon} exclusive of a large body of [illegible], Marines
& Sailors from the Squadron the whole of which will
amount altogether to above 20,000 Men. I might have
been of the expedition but did not think it right that
I should appear there in a hostile character so imme-
diality [sic] after having been there as a Neutral upon
account of appearances. My reasons were approved of
so here I remain. During my absence a vacancy had
occurred in my office and strong interest
was made to have me superseded but his Lordship would
not hear of it and upon my return I found myself
in better circumstances than I expected. Respecting
my paƒsengers, Miƒses Barton & Butler are gone
up the country and the two Miƒs {Mackays} are
looking out for husbands in Calcutta and have
already several admirers. Poor old M^rs Scott