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 times, and thy sister seems fitted to use a dirk rather than wave a fan. Alla have mercy on us—many a deed is done inside these walls of which the world knows little. But fain would I have a word in private with thy sister before she passes this gate, for there is something in her appearance and gait which courts inquiry, my dear."

"Word with her thou mayst not have to-night, Musroor," replied Jelekha with perfect calmness, while the blood froze in her veins, "for she has not yet learned the tongue spoken in Hind. Soon will she learn it for she is apt, and then indeed she will be proud to talk to thee. Be kind, Musroor, and let us pass."

"Thy suit, beloved of my heart, I never can deny. But thy sister is a stranger in this palace, and a stranger enters not the inner palace until Musroor has seen something of her pretty face."

The warm Tartar blood mantled the fair brow of Jelekha, and she bit her lips in vexation and rage. And something of her feelings found expression in her tremulous voice as she spoke. "I am the slave of Queen Jodh Bai, as thou knowest, and my sister goes with me by her orders. Here is the Queen's signet ring, Musroor; if thou touchest my sister thou shalt answer to the Queen."

The dark face of the eunuch grew blacker, and a gleam of anger shot from his eyes. But he examined the ring, bowed to the ground in respect of her who was the owner, and allowed Jelekha and her companion to pass without another word.

"Thou hast humbled that insolent man, Jelekha, and methinks he will think twice before he thwarts thee again."