Now I go on .-- This pleased the Government, anxious to avoid expense, and a bond was made for so many rupees a month that Hilas and Bunar should guard the Passes as soon as the State's troops were withdrawn.

At that time--it was after we two met--I, who had been selling tea in Leh, became a clerk of accounts in the Army.

When the troops were withdrawn, I was left behind to pay the coolies who made new roads in the Hills.

This road-making was part of the bond between Bunar, Hilas, and the Government.' 'So?
And then ?' 'I tell you, it was jolly-beastly cold up there too, after summer,' said Hurree Babu confidentially.

'I was afraid these Bunar men would cut my throat every night for thee pay-chest.