A fountain played in the middle.
On the farther side the floor, which was of marble, was raised; and two steps led to a wide recess, with windows of lattice stonework, giving a view over the town and valley below.

In this recess were piles of cushions and carpets, and here reclined the rajah, a spare and active-looking man, of some forty years old.

He rose, as Charlie approached, the soldiers and Sepoys remaining beyond the limits of the pavilion.
"Welcome, brave Nadir Ali," he said courteously; "my heart is glad, indeed, at the presence of one whose wisdom is said to be far beyond his years, and who has learned the arts of war of the infidels from beyond the seas." Then, inviting Charlie to take a seat on the divan with him, he questioned him as to his journey, and the events which were taking place in the plains; until the attendants, having handed round refreshments, retired at his signal.
"I am glad to see you, Sahib," he said, when they were alone; "though, in truth, I looked for one older than yourself.

The great English governor of Madras tells me, however, in a letter which I received four days since, that you are skilled in war; that you fought by the side of that great Captain Clive at Arcot, Arni, Kavaripak, and at Trichinopoli; and that the great warrior, himself, chose you to come to me.

Therefore, I doubt neither your valour nor your prudence, and put myself in your hands, wholly.
"The governor has already told you, doubtless, of the position in which I am placed here." "Governor Saunders explained the whole position to me," Charlie said.
"You are, at present, menaced on all sides by powerful neighbours.