‘He has agreed terms for a treaty. I’ve persuaded him that a new alliance with England would be in his best interest. In exchange for removing his French officers the Nizam will permit us to increase the number of Company battalions at Hyderabad to six. More than enough to make him comfortable.’

Arthur raised his eyebrows. ‘This is the first I’ve heard of any treaty.’

‘Of course it is,’ said Henry. ‘It’s still a secret. If word of it got out the Nizam’s life would be in danger. Besides, he has yet to sign the treaty.’

Richard wagged a finger at Arthur. ‘The moment the treaty’s concluded I want our men in Hyderabad, and those French officers out. Do you think you can handle the task?’

‘Me?’ Arthur was surprised at the question.There were several officers senior to him who could easily have been offered the job.

‘Why me?’

‘Because you are my brother. I can trust you to keep your lip buttoned. Besides, you need a chance to prove your mettle. It was unfortunate that you were not given command of the Manila expedition, and doubly unfortunate that it was recalled before you had the opportunity to demonstrate your command skills. This time there will be no recall, and if you pull this off then no one can doubt my wisdom in choosing you for other commands in India. Do you understand, Arthur?’

‘Yes.’

‘Then don’t let me down.’

Arthur left the four Company battalions to make camp for the night and rode on to Hyderabad.The treaty with the Nizam had finally been signed and the ruler of Hyderabad was well aware of the approach of the Company reinforcements, even if many of his courtiers and palace officials were not. Before the new-comers entered the city, it was vital that Arthur find out what was waiting for them. Kirkpatrick had sent a trusted agent to meet the advancing column and guide Arthur to the residency without attracting any unwelcome attention. The agent was a hircarrah, a member of an old guild employed in India to carry messages and act as scouts or spies. As they rode up towards the crest of a low hill in the fading light the agent raised his hand to halt Arthur.

‘We must go most carefully from here, sahib.’

‘How far are we from the residency?’

‘Not so far, sahib. I know a safe route. Trust me.’

Arthur stared at the man in the gathering gloom, but the face was old and impassive and did not betray the slightest hint of what the hircarrah was thinking. There was nothing for it but to trust the man. It was possible that Arthur was being led into a trap, but he was well aware of the guild’s reputation for fair dealing. The scout would have been paid by Kirkpatrick, and would stick to the bargain.

‘Very well.’ Arthur nodded. ‘Let’s go.’