I am explaining all this to you because I wish you thoroughly to
understand what your position will be if the Queen takes you under
her protection--which she certainly will not do unless it is
found that you are likely, on your part, to carry out faithfully
the obligations you have assumed in return for that protection."
When this had been translated to the rajah by the interpreter,
the chief sat for some time silent. It was evident that he was ill
pleased, and that he had reckoned upon obtaining the British aid
without undertaking any responsibilities whatever.
"And the officer who will come up," he said at last, "would he
reside on shore?"
"Certainly he would. A portion of ground would be allotted for the
Residency; on this a fort would be erected, which would be manned
by a small force for his protection; and he might either reside in
the fort or in a residence erected for him close to it, and under
shelter of its guns. The fort would, of course, be used for the
protection of the town against enemies, as well as for the protection
of the officer against any rising on the part of your people; in
which case you, as well as himself, would find a refuge in it."
"Then I should no longer be a ruler," the rajah said angrily. "I
should not be able to order those who offended me to be punished.
Pages:
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
55