“Now, my child,” said the father, “you have made a flattering conquest. It is no common thing to find a prince entertaining honourable intentions towards those looked upon by the world as excluded from all society but the lowest: appreciate this as it deserves.” “I shall, my father; but withal, flattering as such approbation is, it may prove the mere effervescence of passion in a youthful bosom, that will pass away with the occasion. At all events, be assured I shall never give my consent to a union with any man upon whom I have not first bestowed my heart.” With this understanding Lallcheen prepared to introduce the prince, who had declared his intention of visiting her father’s house that evening. The lovers met in Agha’s apartments, and were mutually charmed with each other. CHAPTER II. Although a slave, Lallcheen was possessed of considerable wealth, and his house would not have disgraced the dignity of a nobleman. On the day Gheias-ood-Deen had seen his slave’s daughter, he summoned the father to his presence. “I have been considering thy services, Lallcheen, and shall reward them; from this moment thou art a free man.” “I accept the royal boon with a bondman’s gratitude. But I marvel at this sudden change in the king’s sentiments.” “Thou hast a daughter.” “True.” “For her sake, I recall my resolution of the morning, and give thee freedom; but thou must pay the price.” “Name it; I am wealthy.” “I only demand a single jewel.” “If I possess it, the sovereign has only to signify his wish. What jewel does the king demand?” “Thy daughter.” “Ha! thy slave must feel the honour deeply; but will not the monarch of the Deccan be dishonoured by wedding a slave’s daughter?” “Ay, in truth, he would, Lallcheen, if he were weak enough to wed a slave’s daughter; but of that he dreams not. If I give thee liberty, the lovely Agha must be mine upon my own terms.” “King, I am your bondman, but not your pander. I despise liberty upon the terms you offer it. My child would scorn an impure alliance even with a mightier monarch than Gheias-ood-Deen. She has suitors of proud lineage, who woo her with honourable love.” “Then my offer is refused? ’Tis well! the power that governs an empire is not to be slighted with impunity. You will repent this rash decision,--retire.”