CORDINER, James. 1775 — Aberdeen 13.1.1836. Rev. British (Scottish) Episcopal Priest in Sri Lanka. Son of Rev. Charles C. of Banff. Studies at Aberdeen. From 1797 in charge of Military Orphan Asylum in Madras. In 1799-1804 second chaplain to the garrison in Colombo and principal of all schools in the island under Governor North.Although he included it in his book, he did not himself participate in the expedition to Kandy. Then returned to the U.K. and became in 1807 minister of St.Paul’s Chapel in Aberdeen. Retired 1834 because of health problems. Married, at least one son.

Publications: A Description of Ceylon, Containing an Account of the Country, Inhabitants and Natural Products; with Narratives of a Tour round the Island in 1800, the Campaign in Kandy in 1803, and a Journey to Ramisseram in 1804. 1-2. 12+445+6+360 p. 25 pl. L. & Aberdeen 1807.

– A Voyage to India. 11+315 p. Aberdeen 1820 (on the same travel).

Sources: Harris 2006, 21; Wikipedia; portrait by William Bond in nationalgalleries.org.