From James Geikie to Sir William Muir

Handwritten letter pleading once more in favor of Datta after reading Medlicott's long letter opposing Datta's appointment.

Edinburgh 15 July 1886

to Sir William Muir

Dear Sir William

I have read Mr. Medlicott's le[tter-------] with great attention of course I at once admit that my knowledge of ma[tters] in India is very limited - and from all-----------patience of the few who have studied under me- I am certainly prejudiced in their favour. Before Datta came to me I had had several students from Bengal each of whom had an admirable memory and could "get up" a subject very quickly, but they all failed in --------al work , and seemed quite incapable of comprehending geological reasoning. Mr. Medlicott's account of the typical Bengali would apply-------them I was therefore su--------eption to what I have--------to be the rule. I tested--------I could think of. And---------knowledge he seemed to have acquired [a] firm grasp of the principles of geologic[al] inquiry. He accompanied me frequently to the country on my geological excursions in which he always took a liveley interest, and was quick to apprehend the meaning geological structure. My general conclusion was that he had the making [of a ] good field geologist. I repeat, therefore,-------book-knowledge pass----------repetition of known facts and statements that----------I judged of Datta's fitness - but from the [a]ptness with which he took up and prosecuted field work he certainly impressed me as a good observer, and one who know[s] the meaning of what he saw.

It is quite possible of course that my ignorance of the mental qualities of the

Bengali renders my judgement untrustworthy and it---------Datta may prove-------------

But ex uno disce omnes seems to--------hard conclusion, and I should still [be in]clined to give Datta a chance. Mr. Medlecott , however, is so sincerely devoted to the welfare and success of the Survey under his direction that I am most reluctant to suggest a nomination which he conscientiously opposes. But is there a middle course? Would it not be feasible for the Indian government to take--------on trial for some limited time as is often the case of nominees to the geology----------[if he should ] fai[l to reach] the required standard he could then be dismissed . Should such a stipulation be possible I should confidently recommend Mr. Datta for appointment to the Survey and I shall be much surprised and disappointed if he does not do credit to my recommendation.

Yours etc

sd James Geikie