He had written such a strong representation of the Mahommedan's case to the Government of India that there was little doubt the returning mail would convey an official notification that Mir Jan, formerly _naik_ in the Kumaon Rissala--he who once killed a man--had been granted a free pardon.
The mining experts verified Robert's most sanguine views after a very brief examination of the deposit.

Hardly any preliminary work was needed.

In twenty-four hours a small concentrating plant was erected, and a ditch made to drain off the carbonic anhydride in the valley.
After dusk a party of coolies cleared the quarry of its former occupants.

Towards the close of the following day, when the great steamer once more slowly turned her head to the north-west, Iris could hear the steady thud of an engine at work on the first consignment of ore.
Robert had been busy up to the last moment.

There was so much to be done in a short space of time.