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 "Yes, Sir, I am sure" replied Osman with a smile. "That a Rajput is true to his word is a well-known fact."

"Very well, Sir," said the Prince complacently; "I engage to come back alone into the fort, soon after seeing my father."

Os. "Kindly promise one thing more and you oblige us completely. Promise that you will bring forward the terms offered by us, when you see the Maharaja."

"Worthy general" replied the Prince, "excuse me, Sir, I cannot promise this. The Emperor has appointed us to subjugate the Pathans; and to subjugate them is our only duty; he has not appointed us to conclude peace, and peace we shall never conclude. Nor will I ever propose such a thing."

Osman's face showed expressions both of satisfaction and regret.

"Prince," said he, "you have replied like a Rajput, but consider there is no other way of your getting free."

Prince. "And what's my freedom to the Emperor, pray? The Rajput race has many a Prince like me."

"Prince," said Osman with sorrowful earnestness; "take my advice, Sir; resign your present purpose."

Prince. "And why so,?"

Os. "To be plain, it is only in the hope of inducing you to bring about his end that the great Nabab has, up to this time, shown you such consideration. If you set your face against his object, he will be very severe upon you, Sir."

Prince. "On that key again? Did I not a moment before ask you to take me to prison?"

Os. "Young Prince! it would be lucky indeed for you if that only satisfied the Nabab."