ised, and told them to
re-enter the town separately. Then he secured a room for himself in
a small khan, just outside the city and, sitting there alone,
worked out the plan of obtaining an interview with Scindia.

He then told Abdool to go quietly to the Residency, and to bring
out the Brahmin's dress he had before worn. In the morning, Abdool
went out to Scindia's camp with a letter which, when Scindia came
out of his marquee, he handed to him. There was nothing unusual in
this, for petitions were frequently presented in this way to rulers
in India.

As he did so, he said in a low voice, "It is private and important,
Your Highness;" and instead of handing it to one of his officers,
Scindia went back to his tent to read it.

It stated that the writer, Kawerseen, an unworthy member of the
Kshittree Brahmins, prayed for a private interview with His
Highness, on matters of the most urgent import. Scindia thought for
a moment and then, tearing up the piece of paper, went out and, as
he passed Abdool, who was waiting at the entrance, said:

"Tell your master to be here at half-past ten, tonight. The sentry
will have orders to admit him."

Abdool returned at once to Harry, and delivered his message.

"That is good," the latter said.

"You will take me with you, sahib?"

"Certainly, Abdool, if you are willing to go. There is some danger
in it and, should Scindia give the alarm, you may be of great
assistance, by cutting down the sentry before he can run in. Take
your pistols and tulwar, and bring another sword for me. If I can
once get out of the tent we shall be fairly safe for, in the
darkness and confusion which will arise, we shall be able to make
off quietly. We will ride there, and fasten our horses in that
grove that lies about a quarter of a mile from the camp."

At half-past nine they started, and reached Scindia's tent at the
time appointed. Harry's belief that he would succeed was largely
founded on the knowledge that Scindia was a weak young man, who had
never been engaged in warfare, and was wanting in physical courage.
An attendant was at the door, and led him to the prince's private
tent, which stood in the middle of an encampment composed of large
tents; for the purpose of receptions and entertainments, for the
abodes of the ladies of the zenana, and for the officers in whom
Scindia reposed most confidence. The retinue of servants,
attendants, and minor officials were lodged in tents fifty yards
be