‘Begging your pardon, sir,’ a deep voice boomed from the side of the tent, and everyone turned towards the massive figure of Major General David Baird. Baird was well known to those who had served in India for any length of time. He had a reputation as a fine soldier: brave, strong and with an endurance that had seen him through three years of captivity in the dungeons of Seringapatam.

‘You have something to say about the appointment?’ asked General Harris.

Baird’s neck stiffened as he folded his arms and responded. ‘Indeed, sir. The scope of responsibility offered by the post is far from insignificant. Why, the man chosen would be in effective command of a force of over twenty thousand men! That is no command for a mere colonel, sir.’ Baird paused and glanced towards Arthur. ‘No offence meant there, Wellesley.You’re as fine a young fellow as any man who might make general one day. But this ain’t the time.’ He turned back to Harris.‘It’s a job for a more senior officer, sir. That’s as clear as day.’

‘Someone like yourself, perhaps?’

Baird shrugged his broad shoulders. ‘Me, or an officer of my rank. But since I have had some experience of Mysore I’m confident that I am the best man for the job.’

‘Your experience was largely confined to Seringapatam, if you’ll pardon the pun.’

Baird frowned for a moment.‘I’ve seen more than just Tipoo’s capital, sir . . . Ah, I see now.’ Now that he had the quip, Baird bristled indignantly. ‘Prisoner I may have been, but that stain on my memory is one that I am more than keen to wash away with the blood of my enemies.You could hardly ask for a soldier more dedicated to crushing Tipoo, sir.That’s recommendation enough.’

‘Desire for revenge might be an admirable quality in certain situations, my dear Baird, but not now. I have made my decision and you must accept it.’

‘I’m damned if I will, sir!’ Baird thrust his head forward. ‘I’ll not be passed over for the younger brother of—’

‘That is enough, Baird!’ General Harris slammed his hand down on the table. ‘You will still your tongue, sir!’

Baird seemed on the verge of losing his temper, but through sheer force of will managed to clamp his mouth shut as he sat back heavily in his chair. Harris took a deep breath. ‘Gentlemen, the briefing is over for today. Be so good as to take your leave. Major General Baird, please remain. And you, Colonel Wellesley.’

The other officers rose and left the tent quietly, and when the last of them had disappeared through the tent flaps Harris beckoned the two remaining men to move closer.

‘Now then, Baird.’ He spoke with forced civility. ‘I do not want to witness such a display in front of the other officers ever again. Do I make myself clear?’

‘Yes, sir.’