other, from the end of the fore-yard-arm, were shattered by three
successive bullets in almost the same number of seconds. Pistol practice
succeeded that of the rifle, and the ace of hearts at 15 paces was a mark
he rarely missed.

Then the dogs were to be trained, and in a very peculiar manner; a kid
was dragged along the deck before the noses of two handsome stag hounds,
who, little suspecting that a huge hunting-whip was concealed in the
folds of their master's dress, were unable to resist so tempting a victim
and invariably made a rush upon it, a proceeding which brought down upon
them the heavy thong of the Minister Sahib's whip in the most remorseless
manner. That task accomplished to his satisfaction, and not being able
to think of anything else wherewith to amuse himself, it would occur to
him that his horse, having thrown out a splint from standing so long,
ought to be physicked. He was accordingly made to swallow a quantity of
raw brandy! It was useless to suggest any other mode of treatment,
either of horse or dogs. The General laughed at my ignorance, and
challenged me to a game of backgammon. Occasionally gymnastics or
jumping were the order of the day, and he was so lithe and active that
few could compete with him at either.

While smoking his evening pipe he used to talk with delight of his visit
to Europe, looking back with regret on the gaieties of the English and
French capitals, and recounting with admiration the wonders of
civilization he had seen in those cities. He was loudest in his praise
of England. This may have arisen from a wish to gratify his auditory,
and it certainly had that effect. He had not thought it necessary,
however, to perfect himself in the language of either country beyond a
few of what he considered the more important phrases. His stock
consisted chiefly of--How do you do?--Very well, thank you--Will you sit