File BHH/3/2 - Letter from Archibald Campbell to Brian Houghton Hodgson, 3 October 1872

Letter from Archibald Campbell to Brian Houghton Hodgson in which he writes that Hodgson's letter sent to Mull had followed him to Denmark House and he had that day read it with Hooker. Campbell doubts Agerton will try another fall with Kew gardens during his present ministry. Campbell had an interesting time with the Highlanders but found that the English language is inadequate as a means of getting at their thoughts and idiosyncrasies. Campbell had a letter from the Duke telling him the name of the new agent who does not speak Gaelic so Campbell had suggested that the Duke would be long in the predicament of an Indian district to which a magistrate or Collector is appointed who could not master Hindustani. Campbell's own Gaelic is not as good as in his youth but finds those who knew him before will not speak to him in English. One old man, though Campbell knew he knew some English would not talk to Campbell in English for fear of not saying his request well. Campbell had to ask one of his sisters to help with his understanding the man. Handwritten, 3 pieces, 10 sides with accompanying envelope bearing Hodgson's annotations. Dated 3 October 1872.

• English