The Star of India

A young assistant surgeon for the East India Company sets out on a sweltering April trek toward Delhi, the ancient heart of Hindostan, in 1857. His journey spans a thousand miles of river, jungle and dusty road, carried on a palanquin that offers a surprising amount of comfort amid the oppressive heat. Along the way he pauses beneath mango groves and in modest bungalows, guided by torch‑lit native bearers who keep the wilderness at bay. The narrative paints vivid pictures of bustling river craft, the rhythm of night travel, and the rich tapestry of local customs that surround him.

When he finally reaches the estate of a powerful Rajah, a delicate diplomatic dance begins. The surgeon’s respectful overture is met with an elaborate procession of armed attendants, their uniforms gleaming with clay‑colored dust, and an invitation to a cool evening audience. Beneath the courteous exchanges, hints of intrigue and looming unrest stir, promising a tale where personal honor and imperial ambition will soon collide.