I tell you, up, sahib! Boots and saddles! Strike!"
The general chewed at his mustache another minute.
"You know this province well?" he asked.
"None better than I. I have traversed every yard of it, attending
to my business."
"And your business is?"
"Each to his trade, sahib. My trade is honorable."
"I have good reasons for asking, and no impertinence is meant. Be
good enough to tell me. I wish to know what value I may place on
your opinion."
"Sahib, I am a full sergeant of the Rajput Horse retired. I bear
one medal."
"And--"
"I sell charms, sahib."
"What sort of charms?"
"All sorts. But principally charms against the evil eye, and the
red sickness, and death by violence. But, also love-charms now and
then, and now and then a death-charm to a man who has an enemy and
lacks swordsmanship or courage. I trade with each and every man,
sahib, and listen to the talk of each, and hold my tongue!"
"Strange trade for a soldier, isn't it?"
"Would you have me a robber, sahib? Or shall I sweep the streets--
I, who have led a troop before now? Nay, sahib! A soldier can fight,
and can do little else.
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