"As-Geer."
"When were you made a cheyla?"
"About a year ago; and I was at Bhaga Nugger and Golconda till lately; in the house there."
"And what has brought you here?"
"I do not answer questions except upon the Gooroo's business," replied Bulwunt haughtily.
"Good, thou art discreet, O Babajee! And thy companion?"
"He is a novitiate under a vow of silence for a year."
"Good. Let there be peace between us for a while, till I prove thee true or false."
Bulwunt was about to make a passionate reply, when the imploring look of Fazil met his eye. It seemed to say, Go on with this deception; and, after a moment's thought, Bulwunt Rao determined to do so, and to refrain from violence so long as it suited his purpose. Ready himself to strike if needful, he might be able to throw Tannajee off his guard.
"Listen," continued Tannajee; "by one question I shall know if thou art true or false. If true, well for thee, Baba; if false, by the holy 'Máta!' hadst thou ten men's lives, and ten others to back thee, thou shouldst die like a dog."