Page:Ayesha, the return of She (IA cu31924013476175).pdf/139

Rh its wonderful state of cultivation. Lastly they trusted to her skill and courage to defend them from the continual attacks of the Mountain tribes who raided their crops and herds. Their one grievance against her was that she had no child to whom the khanship could descend, which meant that after her death, as had happened after that of her father, there would be struggles for the succession.

Indeed, added Simbri, with meaning, and glancing at Leo, out of the corners of his eyes, the folk say openly that it would be a good thing if the Khan, who oppresses them and whom they hate, should die, so that the Khania might take another husband while she is still young. Although he is mad, he knows this, and that is why he is so jealous of any lord who looks at her, as, friend Holly you saw to-night. For should such an one gain her favour, Rassen thinks that it would mean his death.

Also he may be attached to his wife, I suggested, speaking in a whisper.

Perhaps so, answered Simbri; but if so, she loves not him, nor any of these men, and he glanced round the hall.

Certainly they did not look lovable, for by this time most of them were half drunk, while even the women seemed to have taken as much as was good for them. The Khan himself presented a sorry spectacle, for he was leaning back in his chair, shouting something about his hunting, in a thick voice. The arm of one of his pretty companions was round his neck, while the other gave him to drink from a gold cup; some of the contents of which had been spilt down his white robe.

Just then Atene looked round and saw him and an expression of hatred and contempt gathered on her beautiful face.

See, I heard her say to Leo, see the companion of my days, and learn what it is to be Khania of Kaloon.

Then why do you not cleanse your court? he asked.

Because, lord, if I did so there would be no court left.