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84 tion of shame and repentance. They implored to be allowed an opportunity of recovering their good name. Whilst thus dealing with his troops, he sent two envoys to treat with Nádir Jang. With that prince his tone was as haughty as though it were he who was dictating terms. He demanded that no one of the family of Anwáru'-din should be recognised as Nuwáb of the Karnátik, and that to the children of Muzaffar Jang should be given the estates of their father. Whilst thus openly assorting himself, he sent skilled native diplomatists to intrigue with some of the most powerful nobles in the camp of Nádir Jang. The result of their efforts will appear in due course.

Nádir Jang refused the propositions of Dupleix. But his emissaries, who had been seven days in the camp of the Subáhdár, had not been idle. He himself had employed those seven days in the reorganisation of his army. Some officers had been reduced. Others had expressed the most fervent contrition. The men were eager to wipe out the memory of their misconduct by brilliant service. D'Autouil had completely vindicated himself, and had been restored to command. Among the officers of the force, Dupleix had especially marked the bearing and action of a young major named De la Touche, and he had resolved to trust him with command. His design was to surprise the camp of Nádir Jang, and, in concert with the nobles his emissaries had gained, to restore the vanished prestige of Pondichery. The duty was entrusted to De la Touche. That brilliant young officer