“What’s that? Now, that’s a sneer, sir; but let it pass. I was going to say, sir, you have got your head screwed on right, and sharp boys can see what’s best sometimes. Now, speak out. I don’t know why this discussion has been going on before you, but you have been taking it all in ever since we have been talking. Now then, speak out. Who’s right—Sir Charles or I?”
“Oh, nonsense!” said Sir Charles. “I protest! You are his commanding officer, and he is bound to vote for you.”
“He’d better not,” cried the Major, with his grey moustache seeming to bristle. “If he doesn’t speak out honestly what he feels I will never forgive him.—Now, Archie, who’s right—your father’s old schoolfellow or the Resident?”
“Both, sir,” said the lad sharply.
“What!” roared the Major. “You are hedging, sir, and I didn’t expect it from you. I wanted you to say exactly what you felt.”
“Well, I am going to, sir; only you cut me off so short. I think you are both right, and both wrong.”
“Well, don’t you call that hedging, sir?” cried the Major, looking hotter than ever.
“No, sir. I think Sir Charles gives way too much to these people, these proud followers of the Rajah; but I think it would be disastrous and unfair if you tried force.”
“Humph!” grunted the Major; and the Resident frowned.
“Well, sir,” said the Major, “have you any more to say?”