He, Ramabai, would now apparently side with Umballa as against Colonel Hare, who would understand perfectly.

As the colonel would refuse to marry, he, Ramabai, would suggest that the colonel be married by proxy.

However suspicious Umballa might be, he would not be able to find fault with this plan.

The betrothal would take place in about a fortnight.

The Mem-sahib would be chosen as consort out of all the assembled high caste ladies of the state.
Ahmed threw up his hands in horror, but Lal Singh bade him be patient.
What did the Mem-sahib say to this?
The Mem-sahib answered that she placed herself unreservedly in Ramabai's hands; that Umballa was a madman and must be treated as one.
"Ramabai, why not strike now ?" suggested Ahmed.
"The promise Umballa has made to the soldiers has reunited them temporarily.