"I have requested my friend, Dr. David Livingstone, who is
already personally well and favourably known to your Highness,
to convey to you the assurance of the continual friendship and
goodwill of Her Majesty's Government in India.

"Your Highness is already aware of the benevolent objects of Dr.
Livingstone's life and labours, and I feel assured that your
Highness will continue to him the favour and protection which
you have already shown to him on former occasions, and that your
Highness will direct every aid to be given him within your
Highness's dominions which may tend to further the philanthropic
designs to which he has devoted himself, and which, as your
Highness is aware, are viewed with the warmest interest by Her
Majesty's Government both in India and England.

"I trust your Highness will favour me with continued accounts of
your good health and welfare.

"I remain, your Highness's sincere friend,

(Signed) "H.B.E. FRERE.

"BOMBAY CASTLE, _2nd January, 1866._"

When we arrived Dr. Seward, the Acting Consul, was absent at the
Seychelles on account of serious failure of health: Mr. Schultz,
however, was representing him, but he too was at the time away. Dr.
Seward was expected back daily, and he did arrive on the 31st. I
requested a private interview with the Sultan, and on the following