the General. “You must not forget that you will have ladies to entertain to-morrow.”
Beaumanoir gave a tired shrug.
“Even without that inducement I’d take your prescription, General,” he replied. “This hide-and-seek is rather wearing; but if you two good fellows can keep me in the land of the living for the next few days, I shan’t worry you further.”
He left the room, dragging his lame foot painfully, and the General, stricken with a sudden sympathy, whispered Forsyth to accompany him.
“The poor beggar is troubled,” he said. “Sleep on the sofa in his room, and don’t be afraid to close your eyes—as soon as he is asleep. Azimoolah and I will see there’s no bother. But your friend mustn’t be left alone. Danger from his own pistol—see?”
Forsyth nodded with grieved comprehension, and followed the Duke. On his departure the General turned to Azimoolah, who had stood like a statue since his release, and the twain exchanged a twinkle of mutual congratulation.
“We managed that quite in the old style, O taker of many thieves,” said the General in
[198]
