"Nothing specific, except that the place is filling up. You remember
what I told you about the 'Heart of the Hills' being in Khinjan?
Well, they say now that the 'Heart of the Hills' has been awake
for a long time, and that when the heart stirs the body does not
lie quiet long. No use trying to guess what they mean; go and
find out. And remember--the whole armed force at my disposal in this
Province isn't more than enough to tempt the tribes to conclusions!
It's a case for diplomacy. It's a case where diplomacy must not fail."

King said nothing, but the chin-strap mark on his cheek and chin
grew slightly whiter, as it always does under the stress of emotion.
He can not control it, and he has dyed it more than once on the
eve of happenings, there being no more wisdom in wearing feelings
on one's face than on a sleeve.

"Here comes your engine," said the general. "Well--there are two
battalions of Khyber Rifles up the Pass and they're about at full
strength. They've got word already that you are gazetted to them.
They'll expect you. By the way, you've a brother in the K.R.,
haven't you?"

"At Ali Masjid, sir."

"Give him my regards when you see him, will you?"

"Thank you, sir."

"There's your engine whistling. You'd better hurry, Good-by, my boy.
Get word to me whenever possible. Good luck to you! Regards to