Leonowens (nee Edwards, 1831-1915) was an Indian-born English travel writer, educator and social activist who became well-known with the publication of her memoirs, beginning with "The English Governess at the Siamese Court" (1870) which chronicled her experiences as teacher to the children of the Siamese King Mongkut. Her story has been fictionalised and adapted for the stage and screen, most notably in the Rodgers and Hammerstein hit musical "The King and I" (1951). This sequel, published in 1873, incorporates tales based on palace gossip, including the king's alledged torture and execution of one of his concubines although the veracity of this has been disputed.