“We have not so much as seen an enemy,” answered Burnett; “but understanding that they were likely to attack us on the road to Allahapoor, I thought it prudent to halt here, in order to wait till we could obtain reinforcements from the capital, as we have the young ranee in our charge.”
“So Colonel Ross understood,” observed the officer “And now have the goodness to introduce me to this young prince, sultan, or rajah, or whatever he is; and just interpret what I say, for I am no great hand at talking their lingo.”
“With all my heart,” answered Burnett.
“Then just tell him that Major Molony, of Her Britannic Majesty’s 990th Regiment of Foot, desires to express his delight and satisfaction at having arrived with a force under his command to defend him against all the foes, past, present, and future, who may venture to interfere with him in the execution of the humane and beneficent laws which he has established for the peace and prosperity of his people. I conclude he does not cut off more than half-a-dozen heads a day, and only confiscates the property of those of his nobles who are unable to defend themselves.”
Burnett began to translate what the major had said. Unfortunately Reginald could not command his countenance, so putting out his hand, he exclaimed, laughing heartily—
“I assure you, my dear major, you scarcely do me justice. Half-a-dozen heads a day! That’s nothing. How do you think I could keep the country in order by such simple means? People would look upon me as a mere milksop. Put it down as a hundred, and you would be quite as near the mark.”
Burnett now joined in the laugh at the major’s astonishment and confusion.
“I beg your highness’s pardon,” he exclaimed. “I had no idea you could speak English. Faith, you speak it remarkably well too, I assure you, on my honour; and I hope your highness is not offended at the remark I made.”
“Not at all,” said Reginald, still laughing. “May I ask after Mrs Molony, and whether she has recovered from her voyage in the Glamorgan Castle?”
“Why, as I am alive,” exclaimed the major, “I do believe that you are Mr Reginald Hamerton! And your highness will pardon me if I make a mistake.”