For my part, if I've got to die, I shall
take good care that one or two of those black heathen come with me!"
She flung open a drawer, and, taking out a revolver, thumped it
energetically upon the table. "Now then, Captain!"
"My dear lady, I never doubted your courage," Nicholson answered, "and
my news is not so hopeless as you suppose. I spoke with Nehal Singh."
He saw Beatrice start and glance in his direction with an expression
of sudden suspense in her fine eyes. "What he said left me no option.
There could be no idea of coming to terms. At the same time it seems
that he has no desire for a general massacre. His sole ambition is to
drive us out of the country. He has given us till midnight to
escape--those who want to."
"Does he think we are going to be got rid of as easily as that?" Mrs.
Carmichael broke in. "Do you think that I have forgotten those months
when George was fighting around Marut? Do you think I have forgotten
all the fine fellows that laid down their lives to take the place and
put an end to the disgrace of being held at bay by a horde of heathen?
And now we are to run away like sheep? Not if George listens to me!"
"You need have no fear," Nicholson answered. "Not a man of us is going
to leave Marut alive. But you ladies--"
"Well, what about us 'ladies'?" in a tone as though the description
had been an insult.
"I have just told you--Nehal Singh gives you till midnight to get
away.
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