After taking thought, the latter decided to ask Mir Jan to remain in possession until he returned.

There was not much risk of another Dyak invasion.

The fate of Taung S'Ali's expedition would not encourage a fresh set of marauders, and the Mahommedan would be well armed to meet unforeseen contingencies, whilst on his, Anstruther's, representations the _Orient_ would land an abundance of stores.

In any event, it was better for the native to live in freedom on Rainbow Island than to be handed over to the authorities as an escaped convict, which must be his immediate fate no matter what magnanimous view the Government of India might afterwards take of his services.
Mir Jan's answer was emphatic.

He took off his turban and placed it on Anstruther's feet.
"Sahib," he said, "I am your dog.