“I think so, sir; it would be better before the men.”
“But it seems like taking Captain Hulton’s rank from him now he is in trouble and giving it to another.”
“Oh, no, sir—not at all. Here’s Captain Hulton shot down after bringing his troop safe through a retreat after a gallant fight. He won’t want his captain’s title any more. You may take it for certain that he’ll be Major Hulton now.”
“I see,” said Dick quietly. “Very well, then, I do not see that there is anything more to be done till Captain Wyatt returns.”
Stubbs coughed and stared. “Yes?”
“Beg pardon, sir. Not from any wish to interfere, but I’ve been opening my eyes and ears a good deal since I came here.”
“Well, and what have you seen and heard?”
“Just enough to make me understand that the Rajah and some of his people want to be good friends with us.”
“Yes; he said so.”
“While his mother, all the Brahmins, and the people who believe them would like to cut our throats.”