tween Nana and Purseram
Bhow, the latter wishing to give battle to Scindia; but I think
that Nana is right in refusing to sanction this for, from all I
hear, Scindia's army is very much the stronger."

"It is, sir; and I should say that Purseram's army could hardly be
depended upon to fight, under such circumstances."

"What is Nana going to do?"

"He is going to retire, as soon as Scindia's army is fairly in
motion."

"He is in an awkward position," Mr. Malet said, "but he has
reinstated himself, several times, when it seemed that everything
was lost. I have great respect for his abilities, and he is the
only man who can curb the ambition of Scindia and his ministers.
Scindia's entire supremacy would be most unwelcome to us for,
indeed, it is only owing to the mutual jealousy of the three great
chiefs of the Mahratta nation, that we have gained successes. Were
the whole power in one hand, we should certainly lose Surat, and
probably Bassein and Salsette, and have to fight hard to hold
Bombay.

"I shall be very glad to receive any reports you can supply me
with, for it is next to impossible to obtain anything like
trustworthy information here. We only hear what it is desired that
we should know, and all these late changes have come as a complete
surprise to me; for what news I do obtain is, more often than not,
false. Unfortunately, truth is a virtue almost unknown among the
Mahrattas. They have a perfect genius for intrigue, and consider it
perfectly justifiable to deceive not only enemies, but friends.

"And when do you think of declaring yourself Mr. Lindsay?"

"I shall remain with Nana, so long as there is the slightest chance
of his success; unless, indeed, the course of affairs should lead
to the English intervening in these troubles; then, in case they
declare against Nana, I should feel it my duty to leave him at
once."

"I do not think there is any probability of that. Our policy has
been to support him, as the Peishwa's minister, against either
Scindia or Holkar. I shall, of course, report your appearance to
the authorities at Bombay; and I am sure there will be a
disposition to advance your views, for the sake of your father; and
moreover, your knowledge of the language of the Mahrattas--which
is, of course, perfect, or you could not have maintained your
deception so long--will of itself be a strong recommendation in
your favour."

After thanking Mr. Malet for his kindness, Harry returned to
Su