If the Chelahs were divided among the hill fortresses they might do good service; and I could, as far as fighting goes, do with a battalion of them here; for, mixed up with my men, they would have to do their duty.

But, of course, they will never be placed in the hill forts, for one would never be safe from treachery.

Even if all the lower walls were in the hands of my own men, some of the Chelahs would be sure to manage to desert, and give information as to all the defences." A considerable portion of the upper plateau of the rock was occupied by the huts of the troops, for the forts were much too small to contain them and their families.

On their way back, they passed through these.

Dick looked anxiously about for white faces, but could see none, nor any building that seemed to him likely to be used as a prison.
When they returned to the governor's quarters, they found that a room had been placed at their disposal, and they presently sat down to dinner with him.
"I suppose you have no English prisoners here ?" Dick said carelessly, when the meal was over.
The governor paused a moment, before he replied.
"I don't want any of them here," he said shortly.