In addition, strong barricades were constructed, and a force of two hundred men left, at each point, to defend them.

The infantry he had recruited he threw into the fort of Raygurh, and added strongly to its defences.
Balloba had proposed that Nana should be followed without delay, and offered some of Scindia's best troops for the purpose; but Purseram, acting in accordance with the advice of some of Nana's friends, raised an objection.

He had now, however, resolved to break altogether with the minister, whose timidity at the critical moment was considered, by him, as a proof that he could never again be formidable; and he accordingly gave up Nana's estates to Scindia, and took possession of his houses and property in Poona, for his own use.

After remaining for a few days, waiting events and sending off many messengers, Nana sent for Harry.
"I have a mission for you," he said.

"It is one that requires daring and great intelligence, and I know no one to whom it could be better committed than to you.