‘The ascetic hopes for great reward when he reaches the Heaven of his desires; but man may make or mar his own Paradise by his own hand. His own course of life shapes it.’ ‘To me, Swami,’ whispered Mercia earnestly, ‘it is happiness supreme to know that thou art near. The world may shower its favours, or award its indifference: it is all the same to me. I am satisfied with the knowledge of thy love.’ ‘And I am mad with joy!’ cried Swami passionately, as he covered her face with ardent kisses; the first he had ever bestowed on woman; the first she had ever received from man. ‘Once I thought,’ she resumed, ‘that the tender regard in which I held Geometrus was known by this name. But now mine eyes are opened. I see that Friendship, not Love, inspired my affection. This new emotion hath another birth; a different force behind it: for notwithstanding what has happened this night I feel the same sincere regard for him. His love for me never gave birth to the feeling that thine hath done: for I deliberately disregarded it, deeming my work of greater importance. But for thee, Swami, there is nothing I would not do—even to die; for life without thy love would be a living death.’ ‘Geometrus!’ exclaimed Swami, starting at the name: ‘In my own great joy I had forgotten his disappointment. His loss is my great gain. I would I could comfort him by making him acquainted with the honourable future that is in store for him. For he will distinguish himself above all in his profession, and the whole world shall honour him.’ ‘Dear, dear Geometrus, thou dost indeed deserve it!’ cried she enthusiastically, for her heart pained at the thought of what his sorrow would be in losing her. ‘But tell me, Swami, of my coming glory. Where is this Empire that I am destined to govern, and how can such a wonderful event be brought about?’ ‘It is the Empire of India, my sweet one; it is the home of my fathers—my own beautiful country!’ he exclaimed rapturously. ‘Thou wilt be chosen by the vote of the nation as their first Empress. To thee is given the honour of establishing the Royal Line for India! Thou and I, Mercia; our children, and children’s children shall hold the reins of Government through all generations. ‘Then will be re-established the sovereignty of my forefathers, who reigned in India five hundred years ago. When thy coronation takes place will be fulfilled the prophecy of my father’s father who predicted that in one hundred years a woman, young, beautiful, and talented, should reign over his country, dwelling with her people in happiness and peace.’ ‘How can these things be?’ mused Mercia, as she clasped her hands together oppressed with this vision of greatness. ‘THE GREAT TEST TOURNAMENT is the first step towards its attainment. In a few days it is here; victory will be ours, and India will be free to choose her own Ruler. Leave the rest to God, for thou hast no part in its arrangement. The honour will be awarded, unsought by thee.’