"Virendra," said Abhiram Swami, "to-day I have some very important talk with you."
"I am at your service, Sir," replied Virendra Singha.
"A great war is about to break out between the Mogals and the Pathans."
"Yes, Sir; some serious event is likely to ensue."
Abhiram. "Likely. Now, what have you determined on for yourself?"
"This arm"—replied Virendra haughtily—"This arm will quell the enemy, should he come."
"Virendra" said the ascetic still more mildly, "this reply doubtless befits a warrior like you; but you must know that victory is not gained by feats of heroism only—it is gained by observing the principles regulating peace and war. You are yourself one of the first of heroes; but your force numbers not more than a thousand men. What warrior ever can with such a force beat an army a hundred times its number? Both the Mogals and the Pathans are vastly superior to you in point of number. How can you then hope to escape the hands of the one, unless you secure the assistance of the other? Pray, don't be angry at my words. Consider the matter calmly. Further, what's the use of being hostile to both. An enemy is an undoubted evil. Why then have two instead of one? In my opinion, therefore, you should choose between the parties."
"Which party," said Virendra after a long pause, "would you have me join, Sir?"
"'Victory aye attends the banner of Right,' says the adage. Side with that party which is in the right. Rebellion is no common sin; embrace the Sovereign's cause."
