JDH apologises for not sending his greetings on Brian Hodgson's birthday. JDH last wrote to Hodgson after hearing from Mrs Stirling about Arthur Grote's death. JDH & family are healthy despite the harsh winter weather. JDH has heard they are successfully making pure sulphate of quinine in Darjeeling. Chinese trade is increasing between Tibet & Darjeeling. Harriet Anne Thiselton-Dyer is unwell. The Mallets are going to Grasse. Mountstuart Elphinstone Grant-Duff is returning from India via Rome & the Riviera. Marianne North is pleased with her Alderley home [Mount House]. JDH will be staying at The Camp, Sunningdale for the foreseeable future. JDH & Hyacinth send their love to Susie [Susan Hodgson].