The story was published in the Civil and Military Gazette on April 28th 1887, in the first Indian edition of Plain Tales from the Hills in 1888, and in subsequent editions of that collection.
The Story
Aurelian McGoggin is a brilliantly clever young official, with a head full of philosophical theories. A devotee of Comte and Spencer, he cannot resist challenging the moral assumptions of his colleagues, questioning the existence of God, and arguing with his elders and betters. He overworks obsessively. Then, in the hot season, India catches up with him, he has a massive breakdown, and for a time is struck dumb. He is much less sure of himself thereafter.
