There is the prisoner for one thing." "You can hand him over to the custody of the first British column we can get in touch with, Alwa-sahib.

That will relieve you of further responsibility to Howrah and will insure a fair trial of any issue there may be between yourself and Jaimihr." Alwa scowled.

No Rajput likes the thought of litigation where affairs of honor are concerned.

He felt he would prefer to keep Jaimihr prisoner for the present.
"Also, sahib"-- fresh facets of the situation kept appearing to him as he sparred for time--"with Jaimihr in a cage I can drive a bargain with his brother.

While I keep him in the cage, Howrah must respect my wishes for fear lest otherwise I loose Jaimihr to be a thorn in his side anew.