More than ever he must plan with circumspection.

He must trap Ramabai, openly, lawfully, in the matter of sedition.
Imagine his astonishment when, a few minutes after his arrival, Ramabai and Pundita demanded audience, the one straight of back and proud of look, the other serene and tranquil! Umballa felt a wave of bland [Transcriber's note: blind ?] hatred surge over him, but he gave no sign.

Ramabai stated his case briefly.

Colonel Hare and his daughter were being held prisoners for ransom.

Three bags of silver--something like five thousand rupees--were demanded by the captors.
The council looked toward Umballa, who nodded, having in mind the part of the good Samaritan, with reservations, to be sure.