We're not in British territory.
This in unofficial. I've no right to give you orders," said Grim.
"You're free to refuse. I'm likely to lose my job over this and so are
you if you take part in it."
Narayan Singh grinned hugely.
"Hah! A sepoy's position is a smaller stake than a major's commission
or a gold-mine, but I likewise have a life to lose, and I play too!"
Grim nodded curtly. It was no time for returning compliments.
"How about you, Mabel? We can manage this without you, and you've a
husband to think of--"
"If he were here he'd hate it, but he'd give permission."
"All right. Now, Hadad. What about it?"
"Am I to obey you absolutely, not knowing what the--"
Grim interrupted him:
"The proposal's fair. Either you withdraw now and hold your tongue, or
come in with us. If you're in I'll tell the details; if not, there's no
need."
"Wallahi! What a sword-blade you are, Jimgrim! If I say 'yes,' I risk
my future on your backgammon board; if I say 'no,' my life is worth a
millieme, for you will tell that Sikh you call the 'joker' to attend to
me!"
"Not so," Grim answered. "If you don't like the plan, I'll trust you to
fall out and keep the secret.
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