"The discipline is excellent, sir," replied Hamilton, heartily, "and we haven't had any serious crime for years."
Sir Robert Sanleigh fixed his pince-nez upon his nose and looked round the parade ground. A dozen Houssas in two ranks stood at attention in the centre.
"Where are the rest of your men?" asked the Administrator.
"In gaol, sir." It was Bones who answered the question.
Hamilton gasped.
"In gaol—I'm sorry—but I knew nothing for this. I've just arrived from the interior, your Excellency."
They walked across to the little party.
"Where is Sergeant Abiboo?" asked Hamilton suddenly.
"In gaol, sir," said Bones, promptly, "sentenced to death—scratchin' his leg on parade after bein' warned repeatedly by me to give up the disgusting habit."