In an ordinary
case I might postpone my visit, but, you see, Suleiman is our friend,
and it is most important that I should be off at once."

"But, my dear," exclaimed Minnie's aunt, "it means your being away all
night."

"Of course; and if he's very bad I may have to stay two or three days.
There, I can't stop talking. Get me my little bag while I fetch my
instruments and some dressing."

Without a word Mrs Morley hurried to obtain what was required, and the
Doctor patted his niece on the shoulder.

"Never mind, my dear. We must give it up. Dallas will be able to go
with you another time, and you will enjoy your trip better."

Minnie nodded.

"I won't mind, uncle--much. But it never rains but it pours: here's
somebody else wants you."

"Young Archie! What does he want?"

He soon knew, for the lad hurried up, glancing at the two Malays upon
the elephant, giving Minnie a quick nod, and then catching the Doctor by
the arm and hurrying him into the nearest room.

"The Major sent me to know what these two swells want. He thinks they
have come to your place instead of to him."

The Doctor explained at once, and then a sudden thought occurred to him.

"Look here," he said; "you know Sir Charles was going to take us up the
river in his boat this evening?"

"Yes, I know. He's got Rajah Hamet, and the Major's going into the
Residency. That's why the chief thinks those chaps on the elephant have
come to the wrong house."

"Well, look here, my lad; you must take my place."

"What!" cried the lad, staring. "I could pour him out a dose of physic,
or I could tackle a native, but I wouldn't undertake to dress a Rajah's
wounds."

"What are you talking about, stupid?" cried the Doctor angrily. "I
mean, take my place and escort Minnie up the river in the Resident's
boat."

"De-lighted!" cried the lad excitedly. "Of course--but I don't know
whether the Major will give me leave, as Rajah Hamet's here. Here, I'll
run back as fast as I can, and be with you, if it's all right, in no
time."

"Yes, do. I don't want the poor girl to be disappointed; and you will
take care of her?"

"Of course!"

Archie was turning to go, when the Doctor caught him by the arm.
"There's no need. I will jump up on the elephant as soon as I have got
my bag, and go round by headquarters and make it right with the Major."

"Yes, sir, do. Capital!--But no, no. He sent me to find out, and he
won't like it. I must go, Doctor.