“Well done, us, Dick! I think we may call this the Battle of Palm Tope, and say we’ve won.”
“It’s horrible,” said Dick hoarsely, as his hot hand clung to his friend’s; “but how gallant, and how grand!”
“The light of discipline and skill against brute force, old fellow.” said Wyatt, nodding quietly; “and I feel as if I should like to pitch my helmet in the air and cry ‘Hooray!’ But officers mustn’t do that. Come along with me.”
He led the way and rode along the line, looking anxiously in the men’s faces.
“Who is hurt?” he said. “Any man want to fall out?”
There was a pause, during which no one answered. “Well done!” cried Wyatt excitedly. “Splendid work, my lads.”
There was a loud cheer at this, and directly after the order to advance was given, and the troop rode steadily back, mostly at a walk, to the city, reaching the gates quite unmolested, and entering just before dark.
Chapter XXIII.
Differences of Opinion.
To the great satisfaction of all, everything was going well. The troop had found themselves received in silence at the gate by the Rajah’s troops, and had ridden through the streets to the old palace, with the people in crowds watching their entrance; but no enthusiasm was displayed, and Wyatt said grimly: