"There will not be another for many years," said Phra gravely. "My father has shown the people what he can do when roused, and he means to be more severe with any who stir up the people against what he does and his favouring of the English. I am sure we shall all be safe for many years to come. Don't hurry to get away from the palace; father wants you to stay—so do I."
"Yes, that's very nice, but it isn't home, Phra, old chap, and we English people like to be independent and have our own nests. But I was thinking that if there was another rising in a few years, we should be grown men and able to do better."
"You couldn't. Could they, Cameron?" said a voice behind them.
"You there, father?" cried Harry, flushing.
"Where should I be but in my own home, sir? The doctor and I have just come for a look round. But the museum looks bad, boys."
"Yes, father. Phra and I were talking last night about having a turn in the jungle with Sree to begin collecting."
"And also about a rebellion in the future, and fighting better when you are men. The doctor and I hope and believe that if there is war again it will be against a foreign enemy, and the people will be joining their wise and progressive King in defending themselves. Eh, Cameron?"
"We shall have no more risings," said the doctor decisively, "for the people will never forget the way in which the last was put down. We are like your father, Phra, stronger than ever now."
"Let's end here," said Mr. Kenyon. "One such incident as that trouble at the palace is enough in any boy's life."
The two elders walked away to meet Mrs. Cameron, who had come down to join her husband; and the boys stood looking at one another.