While he’s at St. Xavier’s, Kim receives a letter from the Lama and this reassures him. He is studying for his finals. News about turmoil bursting out here and there in the country reaches St. Xavier’s. There is fear that another Black Year might occur. Tensions flare up between the British and the Indians inside the college. Creighton meets the other Vice-Governors and the Governor-General in Calcutta in order to discuss what should be done. Creighton manages to have a more peaceful position prevail, without any repression, but intensifying espionage activities in order to discover those who are leading the conspiracy. Bennet hopes to be in charge of the mission, but instead it is entrusted to Red Beard, who in the meantime has become Creighton’s trustworthy collaborator (as Kim’s father used to be). Creighton tells Bennet of his wish to make Kim his future successor. Bennet decides to get rid of both Kim and Red Beard.