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 steps. Everyone was eager for a glimpse of the great Rajah. Then with one movement, the Rajah's fifty oarsmen stood their paddles up on end, making two rows of hearts down the length of the boat.

The Rajah was about to land. Now the people came bearing their gifts. With a beating heart Rhamon watched the beautiful things that were laid at his feet, a rug with colors that glowed like jewels, silken scarfs, soft rich wools, the beautiful tray made by the old wood carver, Subhanna's silver bowl with the gold and turquoise handles. And there was Aziz bringing his splendid slippers.

Rhamon looked down at his own beautiful ones and remembered the words Aziz had spoken, "Not even a king shall have a better pair."

At this moment the police boat nosed in toward the steps. Rhamon saw the chance he had been waiting for and reached for something chidden under the seat. He had no fine present