Here he drew from his agents a sum which, he calculated, would last him for a year at home.

To his great pleasure, on entering the train he met his friend Colonel Houghton.
"I have been thinking for some time, lad," he said, "of applying for a year's leave; which I have earned by twelve years' service out here.

I was with the general when your application for leave arrived, and made up my mind to go home with you.

I therefore telegraphed to Simla, and got leave at once; so I shall be able to look after you, on the voyage." "It is very kind of you," Lisle said.

"It will be a comfort, indeed, having a friend on board.