Batoor’s village was more extensive than Jack had remembered, with two towers thrusting upwards from loopholed walls and armed guards on the arched doorway. More armed men peered at the British from the towers, with some levelling jezails or Sniders.
Jack and Elliot reined up a hundred yards outside the gate as a company of mounted Afridis came out to investigate. The leading rider was broad-shouldered, with the end of his turban wrapped over the lower half of his face, so only his eyes showed.
“Salaam Alaikum. Pray tell Batoor Khan that Brigadier General Arthur Elliot and Colonel Jack Windrush have come to speak to him.” Jack shouted.
Salaam Alaikum“Colonel Jack Windrush?” The leading rider unwrapped his turban and grinned at Jack. “My men have been following your column since Ali Masj
