‘Why? what know you of him?’
‘Nothing; but I spoke a few words to him, and it struck me he was a man of breeding and rank.’
‘You had better beware, Kasim,’ said his companion; ‘acts may be misinterpreted, and men like you never want enemies to assist others in thinking ill of them.’
‘Thank you for your advice,’ said Kasim; ‘but I have done or said nothing that I am ashamed of.’ Kasim afterwards mentioned what he had done to the Khan, who could not help praising the young soldier’s action.
‘By the Prophet, well done!’ he cried, as Kasim related the incident; ‘I am glad the young Haram-zada was soundly whipped; he will know how to throw stones another time. I have fought against the Feringhees, and hate them; and yet, in such a case, I think I should have acted as thou didst, Kasim. Hast thou spoken to the Feringhee since?’
‘No: Dilawur Ali seemed to think I had done wrong even in addressing him at all; but I should like much to speak with him; they say he is a Sirdar of rank.’
‘I hear he has accepted the Sultaun’s offer of pardon, and that he will serve in the army; so at least the Governor of the fort hoped; but we shall see. I doubt it, for the Feringhees are very obstinate, and Tippoo has gained over none as yet by fair means.’
‘Then there are some in the army?’
‘A few only who have been honoured with the rite of Islam; but they are of the lowest grade, and he does not trust them. Go you then, when we have pitched the camp, and ask this Feringhee whether he will serve with us under the banner of the lion of the Faith.’