The Hartleys were unwilling to avail themselves of hospitality offered as a matter of course rather than of kindness; but Mr. Hartley was too unwell to keep the saddle, therefore they were constrained to stay till morning. Harold penned a short letter to his wife, recounting what had occurred, and ending thus: “If my father be better, we shall join you to-morrow; but do not expect us early, as I would not break his morning sleep. The baptism must be delayed till sunset. If possible, gain more information regarding the widow; you may find it advisable to visit the zenana again.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------ CHAPTER XIV THE BLACK CHARM. “HOW is it possible that I should gain more information regarding Premi?” asked Alicia sadly, as she sat alone with Robin at the breakfast table, Kripá Dé preferring to eat his food sitting cross-legged on the floor. “I am certain that I should not be admitted into the fort were I to attempt to go there this morning. The women paid me little attention yesterday, and Darobti was offended at my question regarding Premi. I do not like to visit where I am not welcome; I cannot go to the fort to-day.” “Yet to-day seems our last chance,” observed Robin, “as to-morrow the zenana is sure to be closed. Could you not ‘screw up your courage to the sticking-point’ once more, dear Alicia, and attack the fort like a gallant missionary lady?” “It would be of no use,” said Alicia; “I am not suited for capturing forts. I should only meet with repulse and defeat. If there were a shadow of hope—” “I have it!” exclaimed Robin suddenly, clapping his hand to his forehead as if to prevent the escape of a thought. “I beg your pardon for interrupting you, Alicia, but an idea has just come into my head. I can insure you a welcome, I can insure you an audience, if—” “If what? I am curious to know,” said Alicia. “If you will only go to the zenana in your wedding dress, decked out with your jewels.” “You are joking, Robin,” said Alicia. “I was never more earnest in my life,” exclaimed Robin, and his bright, earnest eyes showed that he meant what he said. “The bibis might resist you in your fawn-coloured print; but donning your gleaming white satin, with the pretty little slippers to match—” “You absurd boy!” interrupted Alicia, “do you think that I would cross that dirty court-yard in white satin slippers?” “Yes, if it were a very slough!” exclaimed Robin; “if that were the only way of getting into the house. Do you not see,” he added more quietly, “that if you display your jewels you may very well ask the Hindu ladies to show you theirs? And should a black locket appear amongst them, why, you would pounce down upon it like a cat on a mouse!” “Robins scheme is not so very wild as it seemed at first,” thought Alicia. “What say you to my plan?” asked the lad.