“The Major sent me to know what these two swells want. He thinks they have come to your place instead of to him.”
The Doctor explained at once, and then a sudden thought occurred to him.
“Look here,” he said; “you know Sir Charles was going to take us up the river in his boat this evening?”
“Yes, I know. He’s got Rajah Hamet, and the Major’s going into the Residency. That’s why the chief thinks those chaps on the elephant have come to the wrong house.”
“Well, look here, my lad; you must take my place.”
“What!” cried the lad, staring. “I could pour him out a dose of physic, or I could tackle a native, but I wouldn’t undertake to dress a Rajah’s wounds.”
“What are you talking about, stupid?” cried the Doctor angrily. “I mean, take my place and escort Minnie up the river in the Resident’s boat.”
“De-lighted!” cried the lad excitedly. “Of course—but I don’t know whether the Major will give me leave, as Rajah Hamet’s here. Here, I’ll run back as fast as I can, and be with you, if it’s all right, in no time.”
“Yes, do. I don’t want the poor girl to be disappointed; and you will take care of her?”
“Of course!”