“Couldn’t he bear the motion of the elephant?” said Brace.
“No! Yes,” said the doctor; “perhaps it would be best. While we are waiting for a litter we could get him to the rajah’s. There, I think he will not hurt. You may try for your despatch now.”
Brace and I tried the man’s pockets, and the doctor thrust his hand into the breast, but the result was nil.
“No despatch,” said Brace, uneasily; and I saw his face wrinkle up, as if he were puzzled and anxious. “Let’s get him on the little pad elephant; it will be easier.”
“Now,” said the doctor, who had been bathing the poor fellow’s forehead and trickling water between his parched lips, “he’s coming to. Don’t question him; leave it to me.”
For at that moment the man’s face twitched a little, and he began to mutter excitedly; his words being plain enough to those near.
“Cowards!” he said. “Treachery—you dog—it’s murder! Look out, boys! Ah—sentry—the gate!”
He uttered a low groan and was silent.
“Not attacked on the road,” said Brace, excitedly.