A FEW VOLCANIC DOG-BISCUIT
learnedly of the scenery, of the sport of hunting wild animals in the company of a rajahputra, or some other wild elf, and many other diversions peculiarly suited to feminine tastes.
"So I held my peace, and Tib wrote a hasty note saying the Campbells and Smiths were coming and would work up the Irrawaddy with all possible speed.
"Now the longer we remained in India the more Indian-like did Tib become in his attire and language. He addressed me as 'sahib,' and reckoned all our expenditures in annas, and told me I was a surajah, or a sepoy, according to whether he approved or condemned some of my boyish remarks.
"‘Now for the last leg, sahib,' he cried, gleefully, resplendent in an impossible turban, which, together with his rotund form and merry, Vermont face, caused even the niggers to smile, and we hopped across to Rangoon.
"Once there, I insisted on a few days' rest before making the final spurt, for, although young and lithesome, I could never stand a hegira as could Tib, who was solidified by many long travels.
"While recuperating and preparing for the trip up-country, a letter from Danby found us. He was immensely pleased to know we were coming, although one not versed in the characteristics of the average Briton would never have absorbed that
267
