Hints to Cadets, With a Few Observations on the Military Service of the Honourable East-India Company

Hints To Cadets, With A Few Observations On The Military Service Of The Honourable East-India Company by Thomas Postans. This 1842 practical manual is written for aspiring officers of the Honourable East India Company’s service. It gathers guidance on pre-departure education and mature preparation for Indian service, arguing for an extended period in England before leaving for India to develop moral character, practical knowledge, and a broad range of studies (geology, mining, surveying, mechanics, and political economy) that can be immediately applied in India. The work contrasts the Company’s military service with the Royal Army, emphasizes the importance of steadfast conduct toward natives and local society, and outlines the structure of the Native Army, the languages essential for field duties (Hindi/ Hindostani, Mahratta, Guzerati, Persian, Arabic), and the value of travel, reading, and temperate discipline. Additional sections address general cantonment life, finances, health, and the abundant career openings within Indian administration for capable officers.