He took to the idea eagerly, and suggested that a beginning should be made at once; and as the days went on the officers found that they had volunteers enough for four regiments of well-mounted men; but there was a difficulty in the way, for every one wanted to ride in the front rank, and resented being called upon to ride behind his fellows.
But this was got over, and the drilling went on.
Dick was busy enough, and now he spent a good deal of spare time at the palace with the Rajah, who would have had him twice as much if his duties would have allowed it.
“I don’t mean to let you go too often, Dick,” said Wyatt. “The Rajah’s all right, but I’ve noticed some rather doubtful looks being cast at his favourite.”
“Meaning me?” said Dick.
“Meaning you. It’s wonderful what a lot he thinks of you, poor fellow.”
“Poor fellow?”
“Yes—so weak and ignorant. He doesn’t know you as I do.”
“No,” said Dick dryly.
“I’m getting horribly jealous.”