For a few moments neither spoke. Each regarded the other as if endeavoring to find a vulnerable point in the contest of diplomacy, when the Rani skilfully turned the subject to her own advantage. She was anxious to discover if any suspicion of her plans had been engendered in the minds of the Foreigners, and how far they depended for their safety upon the fidelity of their native troops, already won over to her cause. She therefore replied by another question.
"But have you any reason to think that the peace will be broken in Jhansi"?
"At present, I have not," the Commissioner replied, after a short period of reflection.
"And even in that event you can surely rely upon the loyalty of your native troops"? she suggested with apparent absence of motive.
"Yes, I believe so," he affirmed decisively. "Certainly they will remain true to their salt."
"Then why come to me," she asked, "to seek assistance for which you are likely to have so little need"?
The Commissioner realized that argumentatively, his position was no longer tenable. So he determined to revert to his original purpose and make a firm demand upon the evasive young Princess.
"Nevertheless," he replied sternly. "It is my duty to inform you, that the British Government will hold you responsible for any outbreak among the people."
The Rani raised her eyebrows slightly, as she retorted in a rising tone of protest.