ered were
so much harder than they expected that the Orakzais do not seem
inclined to accept them.

The English general told the tribesmen that the only terms on which
England would treat with them were that they should first give back all
the rifles they had captured since the outbreak, then that they should
forfeit five hundred extra rifles and thirty thousand rupees as a fine,
and lastly, that they must offer submission to the Queen's rule within a
fortnight,--the submission to be given at a full durbar, which is a
native Indian term for a levee or reception held by a native prince or
officer of rank in British India.

As we have said, the Orakzais think these terms too severe, and are
inclined to refuse them.

The Afridis have as yet shown no signs of weakening. On the contrary,
they have sent fresh messengers to the Ameer of Afghanistan, asking his
aid. The English are confident that he will refuse, and advise them to
submit, and hope that there may soon be an end of the Indian troubles.

In the mean while the Afridis are making all the trouble they can. Every
night they cut the telegraph-wires, and every day they lay in wait for
any baggage convoy or foraging party that leaves the camp.

* * * * *

You will be pleased to hear more about the brave piper of the Gordon
Highlanders, who, though shot through both ankles at the battle of
Dargai Ridge, propped himself up, and continued playing on his pipes to
cheer his comrades.

The Indian despatches say that he has been recommended for the Victoria
Cross.

This decoration is the English reward for great bravery. It is the
decoration of all others which British soldiers love to receive.

It is a simple little bronze cross, of the shape known as a Maltese
cross; in the centre is the crown, with the British lion standing upon
it, and on a scroll beneath the inscription "For Valor." For soldiers it
has a red ribbon, for sailors a blue. The slide through which the ribbon
passes is a bronze bar ornamented with a laurel wreath, the symbol of
victory.

The value of the Victoria Cross is practically nothing, but those men
who have been happy enough to earn it value it above any riches or
honors.

Piper Findlater, of the Gordon Highlanders, is a proud fellow just now,
and would not be willing to change places with any duke or millionaire,
no matter how great his rank or wealth, for in that little simple cross
he has gained something