esence was necessary for the protection, not only
of the ranee, but of Reginald, as he fancied that he could at all events
trust his troopers while he continued in command of them. If Buxsoo
were sent, he might be suspected and stopped, and too probably murdered
on the road.

"Then I will send Dick Thuddichum," said Reginald. "No one will suspect
him; and any message I give he will deliver to the letter. He is well
known in Calcutta by persons who can vouch for him, and who will
immediately enable him to obtain an interview with the Government
gentlemen or members of Council; and he will explain why I considered it
prudent not to send any written despatch."

Burnett agreed to Reginald's proposal; and Cochut and Bikoo having been
given into safe keeping, Dick was summoned and received the necessary
directions. In a few minutes he was ready for his departure, with his
master's verbal despatches carefully stowed away in his capacious head,
out of which no one but those to whom they were to be delivered were
likely to draw them.

"You'll look after Faithful, sir!" exclaimed Dick, giving a hitch to his
trousers. "I don't much like leaving the poor beast to the mercy of
these nigger fellows, lest they should play her any tricks. Though with
me she's as gentle as a lamb, she don't much fancy them. But you'll not
forget her, sir, I know. Just let her have half a sheep a day, at
least. It will keep her in condition, and prevent her from doing any
mischief or helping herself to a blackamoor baby, which she might be apt
to do if she didn't get her proper food; and small blame to her, seeing,
so to speak, it's her nature."

Reginald assured Dick, that notwithstanding the affairs of state which
would occupy his attention, he would take good care that the faithful
tigress was not neglected.

"I'm sure as how it wouldn't be your fault if she was, sir," answered
Dick. "But it's them niggers I'm mistrustful of; though, I think, if
you was to let 'em know that you'll hang half-a-dozen of them if any
harm comes to her, they'll be inclined to treat her properly."

The mind of the honest sailor being at length set at rest on that score,
he took leave of his master and Burnett Dick made his way without
interruption to the Ganges, where he found a boat descending the river,
and in due course reached Calcutta. Following Reginald's directions, he
soon got himself conducted before the members of Council--the Board
fortunately s