They are excited about their going; they have lots to think about and to do; and the idea that they may not come back again scarcely occurs to them at the time, although they would admit its possibility or even its probability if questioned.
"However, I fancy the worst of the fighting will be over by the time we get there.

It seems almost certain that it will be so, if Delhi is captured and Lucknow relieved.

The Sepoys thought that they had the game entirely in their hands, and that they would sweep us right out of India almost without resistance.

They have failed, and when they see that every day their chances of success diminish, their resistance will grow fainter.
"I expect that we shall have many long marches, a great many skirmishes, and perhaps two or three hard fights; but I have not a shadow of fear of a single reverse.

We are going out at the best time of year, and with cool weather and hard exercise there will be little danger of fevers; therefore the chances are very strongly in favour of my returning safe and sound.