The fall of Seringapatam, and the death of Tippoo, had been a terrible shock to the rajah; and even the fact that he had missed his opportunity of allying himself with the English, was as nothing to the thought of what would have happened had he declared for Tippoo.
The rajah at once gave orders for a squadron of his horse to mount, and continued his conversation with Harry until they were ready in the courtyard.

Then, bidding adieu to the prince, the latter mounted, and was escorted through the streets by the cavalry guard.
But although their presence prevented any attack being made on him, the lower class groaned and yelled, and he had no doubt that, had it not been for his escort, he would have been murdered on his way back.
Directly he arrived he called the troopers to arms, and told them to barricade the gates, and to be ready to take post at the windows, in case of assault.

Looking out, he saw that the rajah's men had taken up their position in front of the house.
A great crowd soon began to gather there.

Most of the men were evidently soldiers, and had arms in their hands.

Loud shouts were raised, and it was not long before a musket was discharged, quickly followed by others.