It would be madness to risk fighting, under such circumstances.

The wheel may turn and, ere long, I may be in a position to thwart the schemes of Scindia and Balloba." Nana had never been conspicuous for personal courage, though his moral courage, and his ability to meet any storm were unbounded.

He was now an old man, and dreaded the shock of battle, when the chances appeared to be so much against him.

He could not depend upon the support of Bajee, who had already shown himself willing to side with the strongest, and to make terms for himself, without the slightest regard for those who had befriended him.
"But if your excellency does not think of fighting, what course will you pursue ?" "I shall leave the country, at once," he said.

"If I stop here, I know that Balloba, who is my personal enemy, will have me put to death.