"It would be cruel.

It would be devil's work!" He was growing very uneasy, although trying hard not to show it.
"Then give me a name for the tales you have been party to against us Sikhs!" said Ranjoor Singh; but once more the German refrained from answering.

The men were growing very attentive, breathing all in unison and careful to make no sound to disturb the talking.

At that instant a great burst of firing broke out over the water, so far away that I could only see one or two flashes, and, although that was none too reassuring to us, it seemed to Tugendheim like his death knell.

He set his lips and drew back half a step.
"Can you wish to live with the shame of all those lies against us on your heart--you, who have lived in India and know so much better ?" asked Ranjoor Singh.
"Of course I wish to live!" said Tugendheim.
"Have you any price to offer for your life ?" asked Ranjoor Singh, and stepping back two paces he ordered a havildar with a loud voice to take six men and hunt for dry kindling.