"I must talk the matter over with my councillors.

We are good friends with the Peishwa, also with the Nizam, and with Tippoo.

We know that the English are a great people; but we have had nothing to do with them, save that complimentary messages have been exchanged.
Therefore it is not a matter upon which one can come to any hasty decision." "The Governor General would wish you to think the matter over well, before deciding, Rajah; and indeed, there is no occasion for undue haste, seeing that the English army is still lying near Madras, and is not yet ready to advance.

Therefore I will leave the matter for the present; believing that, in your wisdom, you will be able to see how matters are likely to go; and whether the English Company, or Tippoo, are likely to be your best friends." It was nearly a fortnight before Harry heard again from the rajah.
The latter had returned his visit, and sent over presents of sweetmeats and food to his guests.

At the end of that time he came in, one evening, with only two attendants.
"I have come to speak to you on this matter, privately," he said.
"My ministers are altogether divided in opinion.