Wanderings of a Pilgrim: In Search of the Picturesque During 24 Years in the East

Fanny Parks accompanied her husband, a customs official, to India in 1822 and, unlike other British wives, many of whom found the heat oppressive and the way of life uncongenial, thoroughly immersed herself in all things Indian and Hindu, becoming an avid and knowledgeable student of Hindu life and history. She speaks of "us Indians" and was appalled at the idea of having to return to England. She travelled extensively, often solo, and declares "Roaming about with a good tent and a good Arab, one might be happy for ever in India."