I only need time to recover from this sudden misfortune, and it would be madness for me to wait here, and to fall into the power of my enemies.
"Purseram Bhow is greatly offended, because I will not allow him to fight; but I, who have for so many years done my best to prevent civil war in this country--a war which, however it ended, would break up the Mahratta power--would not bring its horrors upon Poona.

It is against me that Balloba is marching and, if I retire, bloodshed will be altogether averted.
"Will you accompany me, Puntojee ?" he asked almost wistfully.
"Assuredly I will do so, sir; and I think that I can answer for Sufder, who has, I know, a great regard for your excellency.

As to myself, I have little hope that I should escape unharmed, if Balloba arrive here before I leave.

He detected me, even in my disguise in his camp; and I had a narrow escape, for a party of his cavalry pursued me, and would probably have caught me had not Sufder, with his band, met me, and defeated them with a loss of half their number.

You may be sure that Balloba will learn who was in command, and Sufder's life would be no safer than my own.
"May I ask when your excellency is going to leave Poona ?" "Scouts were sent out yesterday, as soon as your letter was read and, directly Scindia's army gets in motion, I shall receive news.
When I do, I shall leave.