“‘Colonel, I wish particularly to speak to you.’
“It was close upon 5 p.m., and, as several officers were in the tent, I went outside with the Adjutant.
“‘Well, Shebbeare, what is it?’
“‘Why, Colonel, I have just heard from two of our drummers, who have their information from friends amongst the men, that the regiment is to mutiny to-night, murder the officers, and be off to Delhi.’
“Though I expected this, it was startling enough to hear it was so close at hand. And now that the great difficulty stared me in the face, how, with this small body of officers, was I to meet and grapple with reckless and determined mutineers? But as this was not the time to flinch or show indecision, I said:
“‘Well, Shebbeare, let me see the men. I’ll make a few inquiries first. I will go to the hospital. Do you lounge out that way too.’
“As I had been used to visit the hospital about this hour, my going there would excite no suspicion.
“In a few minutes I had found out that it was too true that an outbreak was planned for that night. Meanwhile I addressed the Adjutant:
“‘Now, Shebbeare, will you stand by me?’
“‘Yes, Colonel,’ replied the gallant fellow, ‘that I will.’