There was a keen exchange of glances between the Rajah and his officers, which Wyatt noted as he went on:
“And he has not returned since.”
There was another quick look exchanged.
“Perhaps your people can give some explanation of why this is, sir?”
“I or my people? No,” said the Rajah. “Can you?”
“Only this, sir—that he must have been waylaid and carried off, if he has not been assassinated by some of your people.”
There was a loud exclamation at this, and several of the officers, with indignant looks, clapped their hands to their swords; but the Rajah made a sign and there was silence.
“This is an insult to us, Captain Wyatt,” he said; “and if you are sincere in your declaration that you do not know where he is, you will agree to this.”
“Will you explain what you mean, sir?” said Wyatt haughtily.
“Yes. The matter concerns your young officer, whom I have trusted, and to whom I have shown the greatest favour; but as the matter concerns your brother-officers as well as yourself, and the honour of all is concerned, I must ask you to send for Captain Hulton and Doctor Robson to come here.”