AMANULLAH

would be able to persuade an army to take the field
against the invader.

He tried trickery m its place.

Up to the heights of Bala Hissar, right up to the out-
posts of Nadir Khan's encampment, there came one day
a messenger from Bacha Sachao. He came as envoy and
peacemaker. He carried with him the assurance of his
master that all was well in Kabul ; that the capital was
peaceful and happy ; that there was no need to endanger
the peace of the people with another battle. And, if
there were any doubt in the mind of Nadir Khan as to
the safety and comfort of the women and children, then
Bacha could reassure him on this point also. They were
cared for, and well looked after. See . . . here was a
declaration signed by their own hands.

Nadir Khan took the paper and read it. It certified
that his relatives were comfortable and happy. That
they had food in plenty, and every wish was gratified,
It was signed by a dozen hands.

The messenger, however, approached closer. He
whispered to the invader. Might he, he asked, speak in
private *!

They were alone. Taking his voluminous puggaree
from his head, the man dipped his hand into the inner*
most fold. From there, he produced a tiny, screwed-up
ball of dirty paper. Furtively, he gave it to Nadir Khan.
It was a private message from his wife, and described, in
terse, heartbroken words, the true state of the women
and children imprisoned in Kabul.

*c We are desperate," it read in effect. " Words cannot
describe the miseries to which we are subjected. And
when you attack, we will surely be murdered. We wish
to tell you, however, that we desire you to avenge us,
whatever be our fate. Wipe out the scourge of Afghan-
istan ! We will be sacrificed, but one and all, we urge you

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