The women in the house seldom came in to see him, except when they brought him his meals; and then it was evident, from their surly manner, that they strongly objected to his presence.
As he lay on his rough pallet, he resolved to maintain the appearance of being unable to walk, as long as possible.

He knew very well that, if General Lockhart had to make another movement against the Bara valley, he could not be averted from his purpose by the fact that the Afridis held one officer prisoner, though he would assuredly revenge his murder, by destroying every house in the valley; and that he must accordingly trust only to himself to make his escape.

To do this, it would be absolutely necessary to procure a disguise; and this, at present, he did not see his way to accomplish.
The guards below were relieved every few hours, and kept up their watch every day.

Still, as they watched only the door, it might be possible for him to let himself down from the window at the back of the house.
On the tenth day he found himself really able to walk, without very great difficulty.

Looking out of the window, one morning, he saw that the women of the house were all gathered round the guards, and talking excitedly.