"Certain," he replied; "we travelled together from Jubbulpoor, and put up in the same house."
"And how far are they behind you?"
"They will be here immediately I should think, for we started at the same time, but have outstripped them."
"Good," said I; "now sit down there, and wait till they come."
"Why is this?" cried both; "by what right do you detain travellers? we will go on."
"Dare to stir at your peril," said I; "you have intruded on us, and must pay the penalty."
"What penalty? Are you thieves? if so, take what you will from us and let us go."
"We are not thieves," said Peer Khan; "but stay quiet, we are worse."
"Worse! then, brother, we are lost," cried one to the other; "these villains are Thugs; it is even as I whispered to you when you must needs stop among them: they have been at their horrid work, and yonder lie those whom they have destroyed."
"Yes," said I, "unhappy men, you have guessed right; yonder lie the dead, and you will soon be numbered with them; it is useless to strive against your destiny."