l accounts, upon my signature that they are correct.

"Then I take a general tour of the Palace, to see that the attendants
have done their duties, and that everything is clean and in order. As
a rule, I have finished everything before the morning meal is served.
The details of making up the accounts are, of course, done by clerks.

"After that, my duties depend entirely upon the sultan. If there is
any state ceremonial in the Palace, I summon those whose duty it is to
attend, and see that everything is properly arranged and in order. If
not, I am generally at his Highness's disposal.

"Unless you receive any instructions from me, you will be free to
occupy yourselves as you like. You will, of course, take part in all
public ceremonials. You will be among the officers who accompany the
sultan, when he goes out, and will be liable to be summoned to attend
him at all times. Therefore, although free to go into the town, or
ride beyond the island, it is well that you should never be long
absent; and that, if you wish to be away for more than two hours at a
time, you should first let me know, as I may be able to tell you if
the sultan is likely to require you. He has fixed your pay at four
hundred rupees a month."

Dick, as he accompanied the chamberlain on his tour through the
Palace, was struck with the order and method that prevailed in every
department, and the chamberlain told him that Tippoo, himself,
inquired closely into details, and that, large as was the daily
expenditure, no waste of any kind was allowed.

The splendour of some of the apartments was surprising, especially the
throne room. The throne itself was of extraordinary magnificence. It
was of gold, thickly inlaid with gems. On the apex stood a jewelled
peacock, covered entirely with diamonds, emeralds, and rubies, with
pendants of pearls. In front of it stood a golden tiger's head, which
served as a footstool. On either side were standards of purple silk,
having a sun with gold rays in the centre. The spear heads were of
gold, set with jewels.

When the work of inspection was finished, they went back to their
room, where their attendant soon afterwards, with an air of great
exultation, brought their meal, which consisted of nine dishes each, a
proof of the high favour with which Tippoo regarded them. After this
meal was eaten they went down to the stables, and were pleased,
indeed, with the mounts provided for them. They were fine animals,
with hand