Florence in India

1858, I am eight, I am called Florence. Mama and I are taking the long arduous journey, from Colchester England, to the Bombay Fort in India.  Our house is very near the fort, Papa has informed us. I  was born in England, papa is an officer in Bombay.

Passage to India takes up to six months. The transport, is Coach, ship, plus a carriage from Bombay docks. The ships in the late 1800's and up into the early 1900s were Merchant ships, there was no such thing as passenger, dedicated travel. Because of this there were very few travellers.

The journey was hard mother struggled with sea sickness and rough seas in the early part of the voyage. Overall it was a good journey, it took a little less than it usually did because the weather was satisfactory.

Papa has been gone for many years, I was three when we last met, so I don't remember him. Mama has missed him so.  We are to stay in Bombay for three years. Then we shall return home. I shall be trained to become a member of polite society. 

Papa, was so happy to receive us. We spend some time getting to know each other, he asked what I like to do in my spare time and what my interests are, I say I love to play the piano. I am  very much interested in horticulture.

' Florence, there are such beautiful flowers here, I'm am sure you will find lots to refine your talents'.

Mama, could hardly contain her emotions, she quite forgets her herself !

'I am sorry for my lack of refinement dear, I have missed you'.

Henry my papa said ' There is no need to apologise darling, you have had a long and tiring journey.  Its perfectly natural to feel some what overwraught. I have to go back to my work now, make sure you both get some rest, I will return and see you both tomorrow.

To be continued