As I have told you, we are peaceful men who trade with these people, and do not wish to be involved in a quarrel with them, which might expose us to attack or bring us into trouble with the British Government which has annexed but not conquered their country.

Do I make myself clear ?" "Perfectly.

While we are with you we will do nothing, but afterwards we hold ourselves at liberty to act as we think best." "Quite so.

Meanwhile I hope that you and Mr.Anscombe will make yourselves comfortable with us for as long as you like." In my own mind I came to the conclusion that this would be for the shortest time possible, but I only said-- "It is most kind of you to take in complete strangers thus.

No, not complete," I added, looking towards Anscombe who was following on the tired horse a few paces behind, "for you knew his father, did you not ?" "His father ?" he said, lifting his eyebrows.