The Doctor had appointed Isobel Hannay and the two Miss Hunters to
the work of lighting a fire and getting boiling water ready, and a
plentiful supply of coffee was presently made, Wilson and Richards
drawing the water, carrying the heavier loads downstairs, and making
themselves generally useful.
Captain Forster had not come in. He had undertaken to remain in
his tent in the lines, where he had quietly saddled and unpicketed
his horse, tying it up to the tent ropes so that he could mount in
an instant. He still believed that his own men would stand firm,
and declared he would at their head charge the mutinous infantry,
while if they joined the mutineers he would ride into the fort. It
was also arranged that he should bring in word should the Sepoys
obtain news of what was going on and rise before morning.
All felt better and more cheerful after having taken some coffee.
"It is difficult to believe, Miss Hannay," Richards said, "that
this is all real, and not a sort of picnic, or an early start on
a hunting expedition."
"It is indeed, Mr. Richards. I can hardly believe even now that
it is all true, and have pinched myself two or three times to make
sure that I am awake."
"If the villains venture to attack us," Wilson said, "I feel sure
we shall beat them off handsomely."
"I have no doubt we shall, Mr. Wilson, especially as it will be in
daylight. You know you and Mr. Richards are not famous for night
shooting.
Pages:
252
253
254
255
256
257
258
259
260
261
262
263
264
265
266
267
268
269
270
271
272
273
274
275
276