Of course, it will make no difference, as I should never say anything to her; but I should like to know whether you think there is any possibility of his being alive." To this Ben had replied as already related.

He was silent when Dick asserted that, desperate or not, he intended to carry out his mother's plan.
"I would not say as I think it altogether desperate, as far as you are concerned," he said thoughtfully.

"It don't seem to me as there is much chance of your ever getting news of your father, lad; and as to getting him out of prison, if you do come to hear of him; why, honest, I would not give a quid of 'baccy for your chance; but I don't say as I think that it is an altogether desperate job, as far as you are concerned, yourself.

Talking their lingo as you do, it's just possible as you might be able to travel about, in disguise, without anyone finding you out; especially as the Rajah, your uncle, ought to be able to help you a bit, and put you in the way of things, and perhaps send some trusty chap along with you.

There is no doubt you are strong for your age, and being thin, and nothing but muscle, you would pass better as a native than if you had been thick and chunky.