ABSTRACT

In 1827 Lord Amherst had started the summer move to Simla. In spite of the difficulties of transport Simla soon became popular. As the century advanced and methods of transport improved Simla became increasingly crowded with summer visitors, with Secretaries and with those who hoped to be Secretaries. Many of the ablest civilians were bored by the routine of district life and aspired to the higher sphere of the Central Government. Plain Tales from the Hills caused the utmost irritation by its hints of loose living among the highest circles in Simla. There would be hardly likely such opportunity for criticising the sermon as after a service in the plains, for the clergy in Simla were chosen for their ability. An Archdeacon of Simla stood as high above an ordinary cantonment chaplain as a Secretary above a "clodhopping collector". Most Vicereines were enchanted with Simla and found Viceregal Lodge a pleasant change after oppressive magnificence of Government House in Calcutta.