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16 odds are against us—further, the enemy will fight from the shelter of forts; so that even if we could beat them, they could not be crushed or dislodged. But, mark, if on the contrary we are worsted, we shall be at once annihilated in this shelterless region of the enemy. Therefore, methinks, it would be a piece of hair-brained bravado to risk the lives of so many of the Emperor's troops, as also to blight once for all the prospect of conquering Orissa. To wait for Syed Khan, then, seems to be the best course; but then, in the meanwhile, some speedy means must be resorted to, for keeping the enemy in some check. What do you advise, Sirs?"

All the old officers returned with one voice that to wait for Syed Khan seemed the best course.

Raja Man Singha said, "Instead of risking the whole army, my intention is to send a small force under some able officer."

"Maharaj," replied an old officer, "where you are afraid to send the whole army, what will a detachment avail?"

"I don't mean to send it," rejoined Man Singha, "to face the enemy in the open field. A small force lying concealed will be able to keep in check small bands of Pathans who are harassing the villages."

"Maharaj," answered the Mogal, "what officer will court certain destruction?"

Man Singha scowled. "What?" said he, "breathes there not one among so many Rajputs and Mogals who can look on death with scorn?"

Immediately a few Mogals and Rajputs started up, and expressed their readiness to go. Jagat Singha was present there. He was the youngest of all. From behind the others, he also