at is going on than if I
were in uniform, as assistant to Colonel Palmer. Should there be a
tumult in the city, or if I find that my disguise has been
detected, I can make for the Residency; and either put on my
uniform and declare my true character, or attire myself as one of
the Resident's escort."

"Come here as often as you can," Nana said. "I shall always be glad
to see you. It is a relief to speak to one of whose friendship I
feel secure. As a Brahmin, you can pass in and out without
suspicion; and I will always tell you how matters stand."

"I have not yet spoken, Nana, of my work as your agent in Bombay. I
have sent you reports, from time to time; but there was nothing in
them that could be of any value to you. At present, the attentions
of the authorities of Bombay, Madras, and Calcutta are centred upon
the probability of war with Mysore. Tippoo has continually broken
the conditions under which he made peace with us, six years ago;
and it is known that he is preparing for war. He has received with
honour many Frenchmen, and is in communication with the French
Government; and believes that he will be supported by an army,
under General Bonaparte and, as it is certain that, when the war
breaks out again, it will need the fighting strength of the three
towns to make head against the army of Mysore, as far as I have
been able to learn they have given but little attention to the
state of affairs in the Deccan. I have therefore been able to
furnish you with no useful information, beyond telling you that the
sympathies of the Governor and Council are wholly with you, and
that they consider that the fact of your being in power here
secures them from any trouble with the Mahrattas.

"Therefore, sir, I have put aside the allowance you have given me,
considering that I have in no way earned it; and have written this
order upon the bankers with whom I have placed it, authorizing them
to pay the money to anyone you may depute to receive it;" and he
handed the letter to the Nana.

The latter took it and, without opening it, tore it up.

"Your offer does you honour, Mr. Lindsay, but it is impossible for
me to accept it. Your information has not been without advantages.
I have foreseen that the Nizam would probably enter into an
alliance with your people; and that the very large increase that he
has made in his battalions, under foreign officers, was intended to
make his alliance more valuable. I, however, have not deem