Abstract: A composition is provided which comprises an aqueous alkaline solution of a metal salt and black liquor, the metal salt being selected from the group consisting of iron, chromium, cobalt and nickel salts. This composition is useful in a process described for absorption of hydrogen sulfide from flue gas, followed by subsequent oxidation of dissolved sulfide to thiosulfate, if desired. The presence of the metal ions and black liquor synergistically catalyzes the overall reaction of absorption of hydrogen sulfide, followed by oxidation of the sulfide. Preferably, prior to scrubbing to remove hydrogen sulfide with the solution, the flue gas is first cooled to near its dew point, and then scrubbed with water to remove particulates. Additionally, the effluent flue gas from the absorption step is usefully scrubbed with water to recover heat, following which it is used to scrub condensates from a kraft pulp mill. The metal salt in the solution is preferably an iron salt at a concentration of about 0.002 M.