the meaning. If `sporadic' means rebellion from Peshawur to Cape
Cormorin--revolution, rape, massacre, arson, high treason, torture,
death to every European and every half-breed and every loyal native
north, south, east and west--then, yes, General sahib, `sporadic'
would be the proper word. If your Honor should mean less than that,
then some other word is needed!"

"Then you confirm my own opinion. You are inclined to think that
this is an organized and country-wide rebellion?"

"I know of what I speak, sahib!"

"You don't think that you are being influenced in your opinion by
the fact that you have seen a massacre, and have lost everything
you had?"

"Nay, sahib! This is no hour for joking, or for bearing of false
tidings. I tell you, up, sahib! Boots and saddles! Strike!"

The general chewed at his mustache another minute.

"You know this province well?" he asked.

"None better than I. I have traversed every yard of it, attending
to my business."

"And your business is?"

"Each to his trade, sahib. My trade is honorable."