“Then why were you not kept back from approaching me this time?” said the Resident, sternly.
“I know not, master, only that those who watched are gone. The place was full of Murad’s men before. Now they are not.”
“He is right,” said Hilton. “Murad has taken the alarm. He knows by his spies that the game is up.”
“Could you take us to this place?” said the Resident.
“I could; but I wish to live,” said the Malay. “I have a wife.”
“You mean that Murad’s people would slay you if you led us there?”
The Malay bowed.
“You may trust to the English power,” said the Resident, sternly. “If what you say be correct, Murad’s reign is at an end, and you may depend upon us for protection. Will you lead us to the place where this lady is shut up?”
“If the English chief will promise me protection.”
“You shall be protected,” said the Resident, quietly; “and you shall be well rewarded.”