"Meer Sahib," said he, "the Bhutteara is faithful; he has got news of a Sahoukar going our road, who is to leave this place in about a week; he says we are certain of him, but that we must quit this spot, and march about within a few coss of the town, leaving two or three men with him to carry information."
"Ul-humd-ul-illa!" cried I, "he is a worthy man; we will listen to his advice, and be off to-morrow early. Three of the best runners shall stay here as he counsels to bring us the news."
"But he stipulates for a large reward in case we are successful."
"I see nothing against it," said I; "he will be worthy of it if he is true to his word."
"Oh, for that you need not fear; he is faithful so long as you pay him."
"Then he shall have it. How much does he want?"
"Two hundred rupees if we get five thousand," he replied; "double, if we get ten; and in proportion if between one and the other."
"If the Sahoukar is rich, Khan," said I, "we can well spare what he asks; so go and tell him he shall have it."
"I go," he said: "should I not return, conclude that I have stayed with him." He sought out the men he required to accompany him, and taking them and a small bundle of clothes with him, I watched him far beyond the precincts of our camp on his way to the town.