"We want a magistrate for this big and important district, and we want a very clever and strong person who will be able to rule the people and see justice done."
"Well?" she asked again.
"Oh, Ma, don't you see what I'm driving at?"
"Fine that," she answered with a twinkle. "You want a very clever and strong man to rule this people, and see justice done, a very worthy aim."
"Quite so, and you are the man we want, Ma."
"Me? hoots, laddie, the tea must have gone to your head!"
"No, Ma, I'm serious. We officers can't do the work; we haven't the language for one thing, and you know it better than the natives themselves; also you know all their ways and tricks; they worship you; you have great power over them; and what a chance to protect the women and punish the men as you like! Think of the twins, Ma!"
"Ay," mused Ma, "it might help God's work. I don't like it, but I would do it for His sake."
"Thank you, Ma. Your official title will be Vice-President of the Native Court, but of course you will be the real President and do as you like. The salary will be——"
"I'll take no salary," she snapped. "I'm not doing it for the Government. I'm doing it for God."