EARLY REMINISCENCES
with strings of seed pearls, which reached to the hem of her gown, and wearing the curious Tibetan head-dress adopted by the Maharanis of Sikhim, she was a most picturesque object, a harmony of gold and brilliant colours impossible to convey in words and of which the photograph only gives a very inadequate representation.
She is extremely bright and intelligent and has been well educated, although she will not admit that she has knowledge of any language but Tibetan. She talks well on many subjects, which one would hardly have credited her with a knowledge of, and can write well. On the occasion of Queen Victoria’s diamond jubilee, she personally composed and engrossed in beautiful Tibetan characters the address presented by the Sikhim Raj, which runs as follows:
“To the most exalted and beautiful white lotus throne of Empress Victoria—the incarnate—Sri Devi—the glorious Goddess—who has been ruling and conducting the affairs of the great Empire, being Victorious in every quarter of the globe by the dint of her accumulated virtues and merits.
“The Memorial.
“Gracious Majesty,
“From the ocean of merits has sprung your glorious self, whose fame has spread all round the world like the rays of the sun. Your Majesty’s reign in respect of Government, defence, of light, and in increase of prosperity has been perfect.
“It is our fervent prayer that Your Majesty’s glorious reign may with fame encompassing the world, extend to many happy years more.
“This humble vassal being extremely happy, with all his subjects, has been rejoicing at the Jubilee of Your Majesty’s reign, and prays that Your Majesty shedding lustre of good, just and benign rule, shall
23
