he fortress among the hills. Already a heavy breaching
battery had been sent for to Runjetpoora, for on a party of Engineers
advancing more closely and with the aid of their field glasses, it was
found to be a more formidable place, and more strongly guarded than had
been anticipated by those in command at Runjetpoora; thus the delay in
commencing the attack.

On the evening prior to the execution of the wretched criminals, as
Arthur Carlton was quietly smoking a cigar and meditating on Edith, the
approaching siege, and things in general, an orderly came to his tent
and announced to him, that one of the prisoners desired to speak with
him on a subject that admitted of no delay. Surprised at so unlooked for
an event, Arthur at first felt inclined to refuse the man's request, but
presently, curiosity getting the better of the dislike he felt at having
any communication with the wretch, and wondering what he could possibly
have to communicate, sent word that he would visit him soon after sun
set.

"What is it you have to say to me?" enquired Arthur Carlton, an hour
later, as with stern composure and folded arms, he looked down upon the
wretched culprit who lay manacled on the floor of the guard tent, and
who proved to be the youth before alluded to, as the son of the man
called Shumsodeen.

The captive, with much difficulty raising himself to a sitting posture,
said, "You are a brave man, and the brave among the whites are always
truthful they tell me. I am told that I am to be blown from the cannon's
mouth to-morrow. Is this the truth? Is there no hope of pardon or
reprieve?"

"The sentence of the court has been read to you, and there is no hope of
remission. You will die at sunrise to-morrow morning, and have but a few
hours to live. This you might have ascertained from the sergeant of the
guard without sending for me," said Arthur, turning to leave the tent.

"Stay!" resumed the prisoner, observing Carlton's intention, "I have
that to say which nearly concerns yourself and companions. I have
learned that it is the intention of your commander to carry the Fort of
Laurieghur by assault; this cannot be done without great loss of life
among you, for the place is much stronger and better provisioned and
garrisoned than he has any idea of. Listen to my story, you will then
see that I have it in my power to render your General a very great
service if permitted to do so."

"Speak on," responded Arthur, getting somewhat i