This must not occur again, and if there is failure in the defences, I
shall hold you responsible. Therefore, take care that you do not
neglect, not only to see that the repairs are being well carried out,
but to recommend additions to the fortifications, wherever it seems to
you that there is even a possibility of an enemy making his way up.
"You will take with you twenty troopers as an escort, but these are
not to enter any of the fortresses with you, for treachery is always
possible; and no one, save the garrisons, must be acquainted with the
defences of the hill forts."
Surajah expressed his thanks to the sultan for entrusting them with
the mission, and assured him that their inspection of the forts should
be careful and complete, and that they would start in an hour's time.
When they reached their own room, Dick threw up his turban in delight.
"Was there ever such a stroke of good fortune?" he exclaimed. "The
tiger business was as nothing to this. Tippoo has given us the
mission, of all others, that will enable us to carry out our search.
Our work is as good as done.
"That is to say," he added, more gravely, "we are at least pretty sure
to find my father out, if he is alive.
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