“You are well and strong again, it is reported?” said the chief of the staff. “That is good news, for the General desires some information. Do you consider that you are well enough to undertake another journey into the bush?”
“Quite,” was Dick’s emphatic answer. “I am fit and strong again now, and longing to be off.”
Sir Garnet smiled. The chief of the staff smiled, while the officers present exchanged knowing glances.
“That is like your spirit,” went on the officer, “but I wish you to consider this question before you reply, for the journey upon which we require you to go is one from which some do not return. We have news, more or less reliable, of the movements of the Ashanti armies, news which is sufficient till the troops arrive from England. But in the meanwhile we want to have particulars of the country beyond the Pra, from there to Kumasi, and if possible news of the captives and of King Koffee. Troops are expected at the end of the year, in two months perhaps. So you have that time in which to get this information. But you know, doubtless, the condition of the country. There are at least two Ashanti armies lying in the jungle, and perhaps there are others.”
He ceased speaking and looked questioningly at the young fellow standing hat in hand, as if awaiting an answer, while he desired above all things to weigh his character, to see for himself whether he were indeed the lad of courage which the Governor had represented him to be, and whether he were a fit person to undertake an expedition of such danger.
“There will be no mercy from the Ashantis,” he added, lifting a warning finger. “You have met them and you should know.”
“When can I start? The sooner the better,” said Dick, quietly.
“Then you will go?”
“Yes, sir, and I will get this information for you if it is possible. What men may I have? I’d like the old launch which I had before. She steams well, and has a stout hull.”
“Choose your own staff and your own methods of proceeding,” was the genial answer. “They tell me that you have patrolled the river before, so you must know what is wanted. Come and report here just before you leave. And, er—Mr Stapleton, there will be a handsome reward for this information.”