" cried
Ki-Chan, taking a vigorous pinch of snuff from his silver box.

Then addressing himself to the pacificator of kingdoms, his voice assumed
a grave and solemn tone, "Ly-Kouo-Ngan," said he, "since the grand
Emperor allows you to return to your family, you depart; you will have
these two fellow-travellers, and this circumstance ought to cause you
great joy, for the way, you know, is long and tedious. The character of
these men is full of justice and gentleness; you will therefore live with
them in perfect harmony. Take care never to sadden their hearts, by
word, or deed. Another important thing I have still to say: As you have
served the empire for twelve years on the frontiers of Gorkha, I have
commanded the paymaster to send you 500 ounces of silver; it is a present
from the grand Emperor." At these words Ly-Kouo-Ngan, finding all at
once an unwonted suppleness in his legs, threw himself on his knees with
vehemence: "The heavenly beneficence of the great Emperor," said he, "has
always surrounded me on every side, but unworthy servant that I am, how
could I receive a further signal favour without blushing? I address my
heartfelt supplications to the ambassador, that I may hide my face from
him, and withdraw myself from this undeserved graciousness." Ki-Chan
replied, "Do you imagine the grand Emperor will thank you for your
disinterestedness? What are a few ounces of silver? Go, receive this
small sum, as it is offered to you; it will furnish you with tea to offer
to your friends; but when you get home, take care not to begin drinking
brandy again. If you wish to live a few years longer, you must deny
yourself brandy. I say to you this, because a Father and Mother ought to
give their children good advice." Ly-Kouo-Ngan struck the earth thrice
with his forehead, and then rose up and placed himself beside us.
Ki-Chan then harangued the soldiers, and changed his tone for the third
time. His voice was sharp, abrupt, and sometimes bordering on anger.
"And you soldiers!" at these words the fifteen soldiers, as though moved
by one string, fell together on their knees, and retained that position
all the time of the harangue. "Let me see, how many are there of you?
You are fifteen, I think," and at the same time he counted them with his
finger; "yes, fifteen men; you, fifteen soldiers, are about to return to
your own province; your service is fulfilled; you will escort your
Tou-Sse to Sse-Tchouen, as also these