May, 1850. PROSPPXTS OF DORJ1LING. 249 



matter short-sighted. With regard to the disagreeables of 

 its climate, I can sufficiently appreciate them, and shall be 

 considered by the residents to have over-estimated the 

 amount and constancy of mist, rain, and humidity, from 

 the two seasons I spent there being exceptional in these 

 respects. Whilst on the one hand I am willing to admit 

 the probability of this,* I may be allowed on the other 

 to say that 1 have never visited any spot under the sun, 

 where I was not told that the season was exceptional, and 

 generally for the worse ; added to which there is no better 

 and equally salubrious climate east of Nepal, accessible 

 from Calcutta. 



All climates are comparative, and fixed residents 

 naturally praise their own. I have visited many latitudes, 

 and can truly say that I have found no two climates 

 resembling each other, and that all alike are complained of. 

 That of Dorjiling is above the average in point of comfort, 

 and for perfect salubrity rivals any ; while in variety, 

 interest, and grandeur, the scenery is unequalled. 



From Sikkim to the Khasia mountains our course was 

 by boat down the Mahanuddy to the upper Gangetic delta, 

 whose many branches we followed eastwards to the Megna ; 

 whence we ascended the Soormah to the Silhet district. 

 We arrived at Kishengunj, on the Mahanuddy, on the 3rd 

 of May, and were delayed two days for our boat, which 

 should have been waiting here to take us to Berhampore on 

 the Ganges : we were, however, hospitably received by 

 Mr. Perry's family. 



The approach of the rains was indicated by violent easterly 

 storms of thunder, lightning, and rain ; the thermometer 

 ranging from 70° to 85°. The country around Kishengunj 



* I am informed that hardly a shower of raiu has fallen this season, between 

 November 1852, and April 1853 ; and a very little snow in February only. 



