Get me a torch of some sort, and I will do it while you are speaking to the natives." Stanley always carried a notebook and pen and ink, to take down statements and complaints, as he rode about.

He now sat down and wrote an account of what had taken place during his absence.
"We had no previous news of the existence of the band," he went on, "and the natives, themselves, had certainly no fear of any attack being imminent.

Had I thought that there was the slightest risk, I should not have made the village my headquarters; or have left Mr.
Brooke there, with only his servant and two troopers.

I regret the matter, most deeply; and am about to set off to Toungoo, with my man.

I shall, of course, go in disguise; and shall make every endeavour to free my cousin.
"I trust, General, that you will grant me leave for this purpose.