ould prefer going as we are. We shall excite no
special observation, travelling as English, as it will only be
supposed that we are on our way to pay a visit to some of our
officers, at Arcot. At Conjeveram, which is a large place, there is
sure to be a hotel of some sort or other, for it is on the main road
from Madras south. On the way up, by water, we shall of course sleep
on board, and we shall go direct from the boat to Tripataly.

"However, we need not decide until we get an answer to my letter, for
it will take a very short time to get the necessary dresses for us
both. I think it most likely that my brother will send down one of his
officers to meet us, or possibly may come down himself.

"You heard what they were all talking about, at dinner, Dick?"

"Yes, Mother, it was something about Tippoo attacking the Rajah of
Travancore, but I did not pay much attention to it. I was looking at
the servants, in their curious dresses."

"It is very important, Dick, and will probably change all our plans.
Travancore is in alliance with us, and every one thinks that Tippoo's
attack on it will end in our being engaged in war with him. I was
talking to the officer who sat next to me, and he told me that, if
there had been a capable man at the head of government here, war would
have been declared as soon as the Sultan moved against Travancore. Now
that General Meadows had been appointed governor and commander-in-chief,
there was no doubt, he said, that an army would move against Tippoo in a
very short time--that it was already being collected, and that a force
was marching down here from Bengal.

"So you see, my boy, if this war really breaks out, the English may
march to Seringapatam, and compel Tippoo to give up all the captives
he has in his hands."

"That would be splendid, Mother."

"At any rate, Dick, as long as there is a hope of your father being
rescued, in that way, our plans must be put aside."

"Well, Mother, that will be better, in some respects; for of course,
if Father is not rescued by our army, I can try afterwards as we
arranged. It would be an advantage, in one way, as I should then be
quite accustomed to the country, and more fit to make my way about."

A week later, an old officer arrived from Tripataly.

"Ah, Rajbullub," Mrs. Holland exclaimed, as he came up with a deep
salaam; "I am, indeed, glad to see you again. I knew you were alive,
for my brother mentioned you when he wrote last year."