He is a capital companion, and will always be able to advise me upon native business.

He is as plucky as a fellow can be, and I can trust him to do anything, just as I would myself." The preparations for departure now began in earnest.

There was some discussion as to the arms that were to be taken, but at last it was decided that, with safety, they could carry nothing beyond a matchlock, a pistol, and a sword each.
Great pains were taken in the selection of the matchlocks.

In the armoury were several weapons of high finish, with silver mountings, that had belonged to the Rajah's father and grandfather.

These were tried against each other, and the two that were proved to be the most accurate were chosen.