Page:Frank Owen - The Scarlett Hill, 1941.djvu/149

RV 144 (LADY T'AI CHÊN) itself was not above gobbling up a pensive cricket though he might be in the very middle of his song. On such occasions only with great restraint was Ming Huang able to curb his anger sufficiently to permit the miserable culprit to continue to enjoy earthly existence.

As Lady T'ai Chên swam about in the water leisurely, she enjoyed the gentle cricket music.

Frantically, the Amah pleaded with her to hurry.

"Would you keep the Emperor waiting?"

"Can I help it? Why does he have so entrancing a bath pavilion? But do not fear for my safety. Soon he will be too busy for anger. I shall be in no danger, except of crushed bones from the pressure of his arms."

Something was hurting her foot. She dived to the bottom of the pool. When she came to the surface, she held a handful of turquois on which the light played as though they were stones of fire. Lady T'ai Chên gazed on the jewels and though her eyes were black, their depths seemed as green as green flames.

Had the Emperor placed turquois in the water to symbolize a delicate compliment, that she was exquisite enough to bathe in jewels? She laughed softly and plunged again into the water. Yes, it was good to keep him waiting.

The girls who had come to help her get ready were so excited they could hardly do anything right. They had never participated, even though slightly, in such an awe-inspiring occasion. They marveled at Lady T'ai Chên's composure. RV 144 (144)