For twelve years I have thought it over.

I have taught him all that I could, so far; and convinced myself that it would be the best.

The boy loves me, and is happy: he would be miserable among strangers, who would laugh at his English, and would make him unhappy." Jeemajee sat for some time in thought.
"I am not sure that your plan is not the best," he said, "and after saving his life, and caring for him, at the risk of your own, for all these years, you have assuredly a better right than any other to say what shall be done now.

I will think over what you have asked of me.

It is not very easy to find just such a home as you want, but I should consider the sum you offer is sufficient to induce many Englishmen living here to take him; but it is not everyone from whom he would learn English, as you would wish him to do, or who could teach him the manners of white officers.
"Come to me tomorrow evening, but you must not expect that I shall be able to answer you then.