Chapter 26: A Couple of Shots

Buktar Sing, the messenger of Wana Affghar, of Puneput, calmly awaited the approach of Luchman, who advanced with a certain dignity that seemed to mark all his movements.

At the moment of joining the messenger, Luchman made a discovery which caused him some uneasiness, and which he wondered he had not made before.

Less than twenty yards distant was a depression in the ground, running at right angles to the course he took in leaving the temple. Since they must have crossed it in their flight to the ruins, it would seem that he ought to have noticed it. That he failed to do so was probably due to the haste with which he and his companions fled to the refuge.

Water had probably flowed through it quite recently, for it contained grass of a green color, while that around it was burnt brown and dry. In short it was just the place for a foe to hide himself during the interview about to take place.

Luchman was the first to speak.

“What tidings do you bring that Wana Affghar asks me to leave my friends that they may not hear it?”

Buktar Sing answered,

“Wana tells me to urge you to surrender, since it is the only thing that will save the lives of yourself and the Feringhees with you.”

“Why is that?”

“You see the large numbers we have; we can kill you all whenever Wana gives the word.”

“Why does he hesitate?”

“Wana Affghar is merciful, and he will not do so until you refuse the offer I bring you.”