English, contented himself with calling out
"burrah saib," and then walked off. Newton found himself in the
presence of the old veteran and Isabel. The latter had been reading a
new publication, which she laid down at the voice of the butler
announcing a visitor. But "burrah saib" may be any body; it implies a
gentleman. What then was the surprise of Isabel, who had no intimation
of his arrival, when Newton Forster made his appearance? Her
exclamation of delight, as she ran to him and extended her hand, made
Newton Forster but too happy; and, as for a few seconds he held the hand
not withdrawn, and looked in her beaming eyes, he quite forgot the
presence of the colonel. A glance from the eye of Isabel in the
direction where the old gentleman was seated, brought Newton to his
recollection. He walked up to the colonel, who shook hands, and
declared that he was most glad to see him.

"You take up your quarters here, of course, Mr Forster?"

"I shall have great pleasure in availing myself of your kind offer for a
day or two," replied Newton. "I trust that you have been in good health
since we parted."

"Not very; that is, latterly. I am thinking of a change of climate. I
intend to go home in October. I suppose you have been informed that the
two young women have married?"

"I was told so by some one who came on board."

"Yes. Isabel, my dear, order a chamber for Mr Forster." Isabel left
the room. "Yes, both married--thought of nothing else--regularly came
out on spec. In less than a month they knew the exact rank of every
gentleman in the presidency; ascertained their prospects, and the value
of their appointments; turned the rupees into pounds sterling; broke off
a conversation with an ensign at the sight of a lieutenant; cut the
lieutenant for a captain; were all smiles for a major; and actually made
love themselves to any body who was above that rank, and a bachelor.
They made their decision at last; indeed pretty quick. They were only
four months on my hands. Both up the country now."

"I trust they have married well, sir?"

"That depends upon circumstances. They have married young men not used
to the climate. May be widows in half a year. If their husbands
weather it, of course they will come in for their share of the good
things; but I'll warrant they will never be able to leave the country."

"Not leave the country, sir! May I ask why?"

"Because they have married foolish, extravagant