“If Howrah thinks we're after the treasure and decides to fight without previous argument, that absolves you from your promise, doesn't it, Alwa-sahib?”
“Surely, sahib, provided our intention is not to evade the promise.”
“Our intention is to prevent Howrah and his brother from fighting, to insure peace and protection on this whole countryside, and, if possible, to ride away with Jaimihr's army to the Company's aid.”
“Good, sahib.”
It seemed to occur to none of the three that fifteen hundred mounted men were somewhat few with which to accomplish such a marvel.
“If they are fighting already, we must interfere.”
“We are ready, bahadur. Fighting is our trade!”
“But, before all things, we must keep our eyes well skinned for a hint of treachery on Jaimihr's part. I would rather quarrel with that gentleman than be his friend, but he happens to hold our promise. We've got to keep our promise, provided he keeps his. I think our first objective is the treasure.”
“That, sahib, is an acrobat of a plan,” said Alwa; “much jumping from one proposition to another!”
“It is no plan at all,” said Cunningham. “It is a mere rehearsal of the circumstances. A plan is something quickly seized at the right second and then acted on—like your capture of Jaimihr. Wait awhile, Alwa-sahib!”