human
Chand Singh's guns are beginning to come into camp,
gpt
Oh, all right. Bound to come some time,
human
The Granthis are all standing to arms already, and Bishen Ram is sporting a pair of gold bracelets.
gpt
Ah! said Charteris sharply. This was news indeed, for it was a gift of gold bracelets to their commandant that had heralded the defection of Nisbet and Cowper's escort to Sher Singh.
human
Keep an eye on them from the door here while I dress, Warner. I have the _zamburaks_ trained on them, so they can't take us by surprise.
gpt
I suppose you have full confidence in Gerrard?
human
Full confidence? Charteris's voice, inside the tent, evidently issued from the folds of a towel.
gpt
Why, of course. Every confidence that a man could have in another.
human
There was a story that you and he had quarrelled----
gpt
Well?
human
Er--about some girl, I believe. But quarrelled, anyhow. You don't think he would take this opportunity----?
gpt
To pay me out? I would as soon believe that you had been bribed by Chand Singh to try and discourage me.
human
Well, that's pretty strong, I must say.
gpt
It is; and if you want it stronger, I'll say that I would sooner believe it. Charteris emerged from the tent as he spoke and looked keenly at his subordinate.
human
My dear fellow, your nerves are all to pieces. Steady, steady! This is going to be one of the worst days you ever had, and I mean you to come out of it with credit. Take a couple of orderlies to keep guard, and go down and get a good swim. If you feel inclined for a snooze afterwards, take an hour or two with my blessing. I will be responsible for this mighty array meanwhile. No, I really mean it. Be off with you!