“I think you are right,” said Wyatt, “and I believe if we liked we might seize the whole of the place.”
“But we do not want it—only the Rajah’s faithful alliance with the Company.”
All was done in accordance with the little conference. The message was sent, and in due time twenty men turned out in full review order, under the command of one of the newly-arrived sergeants, and the escort dashed up to the palace in their best style, to the surprise and excitement of the people and the Rajah’s followers, taking up the position of guards on either side of the entrance when their officers entered, while the Rajah’s guard drew back.
The reception of the three officers was warm in the extreme, the Rajah appearing perfectly frank and gentlemanly when they met, and walking with them out into a balcony from whence he could see the escort drawn up by the entrance.
“I am glad you came like this,” he said. “Your people are grand. I like the people to see your strength, and I congratulate you on the safe arrival of your fresh men.”
He led the way back into the reception-room, and when they were seated he turned to Dick.
“I’m afraid you have thought me very neglectful, Mr Darrell.”
“Well,” said Dick, “to be frank, we began to think that there was something very wrong, as you seemed so changed towards us.”
“Not changed in the least, Captain Wyatt,” he said, turning now to his other guests.—“A man situated as I am, Doctor, cannot do quite as he pleases.”
“I suppose not, sir. Even our King cannot at home.”