Showing 38 results

Hodgson used much of his time in both Nepal and Darjeeling in research, wanting to discover and understand about the architecture, languages, ethnography, religion, zoology and botany. He collected specimens and manuscripts, and had many drawings made, which he donated to many collections throughout Europe. He was also politically involved during his Residency in Nepal, and also later in England, when he continued to show an active interest in the Indian subcontinent, particularly regarding trade and vernacular education. These Personal Papers reflect these interests and are a record of much of his activity - Hodgson and his wives seemed to have a need to record all his successes. He was also a keen annotator of material, so that most of the printed material also bears his handwritten comments.

The series consists of 38 letters from Joseph Dalton Hooker to Brian Houghton Hodgson. They have been organised mainly according to a previous listing made of the material, approximately by date.

Incomplete letter from Joseph Hooker to Brian Houghton Hodgson from Pemiongchi, Sikkim, in which he writes of his explorations. He had been travelling with Campbell who had left that morning for Darjeeling and will go on to [Tetulga]. He describes the Bhatiyas at Sikkim and compares them with those of Bhutan and Nepal. He describes the temples at Tapiding where "vishnus and sivas with accompanying obscenities abound". He writes concerning the geology of the areas - upper layers granite and lower of stratified rock. Handwritten, 2 pieces, dated 2 January [1848-1850].

Letter from Joseph Hooker to Brian Houghton Hodgson. He writes that their friend is in trouble and he is going to meet him; connected with dealings with the Rajah. Hooker writes about the "libellus geographicus". He writes that his father is publishing extracts from his "private letters" and hopes he can trust his judgment. He is looking forward to seeing Hodgson and will write again with details from Pemiongchi. With accompanying envelope. Handwritten, 2 sides, dated 21 December, [1848].

Letter from Joseph Hooker to Brian Houghton Hodgson. He writes that he had last written to Hodgson on his way to meet the Rajah. They have left [bamsong] after Christmas after a final interview with the Dewan who had been extremely attentive. The Rajah had told Archibald Campbell that Hooker could start for [Lachen] in spring. Hooker had informed the Dewan that he was certainly going. Hooker does not foresee much difficulty, Campbell having given the Dewan a warning. Hooker writes that Campbell had insisted on one who speaks Hindustani and the only one was the heir apparent's servant. Hooker continues to report on the negotiations between Campbell and the Rajah. He then talks about the geology and vegetation of the area he is travelling through. With accompanying envelope. Handwritten, 4 sides, dated 28 December 1848.

Letter from Joseph Hooker to Brian Houghton Hodgson in which he thanks Hodgson for his last letter with its kind invitation to spend another season with Hodgson in Darjeeling. He hopes it will be possible. He is glad Hodgson has gone down to the Plains and will join him as soon as possible. He will be enroute for [Tongri] in two days and will visit Tapiding and Pemiongchi. Then he will need a few days to pack and send his specimens to Calcutta. He writes that Archibald Campbell is going to the border to the mouths of [Zestta] and [Mahi] and would like Hooker to accompany him but he doubts that he will this time. He meant to send Hodgson a cheque from his Calcutta agents but neglected to do so, therefore he sends one enclosed. He also sends Sabine's letter. He has written to Colville asking him to send Hooker's boxes. He also encloses Whelland's letter. Handwritten, 4 sides, dated 29 December 1848.

Letter from Joseph Hooker to Brian Houghton Hodgson in which he bemoans the dearth of European news. He writes about places he is trying to reach, the state of maps, of Campbell's report, the flora and animals of the region, and of his expected route. Handwritten, 3 sides, dated 14 January [1849].

Letter from Joseph Hooker to Brian Houghton Hodgson in which he writes he has had a kind welcome from Hodgson's cousin and wife. Hodgson's cousin is finding it difficult healthwise in the climate complaining of headaches all the time, though they have a "nice house and garden and a pretty Bengal landscape all around". Hooker hopes to reach [Kishnagu] tomorrow morning. He has had a note from Colville. Hooker had seen "old Perry for two hours near [Titulgah]. He is sore afflicted". Hooker writes of others he has met and incidents concerning them. Handwritten, 6 sides, dated 18 March [1849].

Letter from Joseph Hooker to Brian Houghton Hodgson in which he writes of his sadness at the news of Lord Auckland's death and of Hooker's regard for Lord Auckland. Lord Ashburton seems to have written the portents to Hooker's father, whose brother, Mr Baring, will probably succeed Auckland in the Admiralty. Hooker has had "infamous weather". Hooker requests that Hodgson not put himself out by travelling to meet him but would be delighted if Hodgson were to come. With accompanying envelope. Handwritten, 4 sides, dated 24 February, 1849.

Letter from Joseph Hooker to Brian Houghton Hodgson in which he writes about his travels: no villages until Lachon which is cut off in June by the torrents. No-one in the plain has seen an Englishman before. They have good horses, but no yak. He writes of the vegetation and the vistas. Hooker writes that the route is very hard but wishes Hodgson could see this country; he is finding many new plants. With accompanying envelope. Handwritten, 12 sides, dated 28 May 1849.