"Ranjoor Singh, when I entered this house ten minutes ago I had no
notion I should find you here. I have served the same 'Salt' with
you, on the same campaigns. I even wear the same medals. In the same
house I am entitled to the same credit.
"I am here on urgent business for the Raj, and you are here owing to
a grave mistake, which I admit and for which I tender you the most
sincere apology on behalf of the government, but which I can not
alter. I expected to find a trooper here, not necessarily of your
regiment, who should have been waylaid and tempted beyond any doubt
as to his trustworthiness.
"I received a message that Yasmini had two absolutely honest men
ready, and I came at once to give them their instructions. I ask you
to sacrifice your pride, as we all of us must on occasion, and your
rights, as is a soldier's privilege, and see this business through to
a finish. It is too late to make other arrangements, Ranjoor Singh."
"Sahib, squadron-leading is my trade! I am not cut out for rat-run
soldiering! I am willing to leave this house and hold my tongue, and
to take this trooper with me and see that he holds his tongue. By
nine tomorrow morning I will have satisfied myself that you are for
and not against the Raj. And having satisfied myself, I and this
trooper here will hold our tongues for ever.
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