The announcement sounded like the sentence of a judge, from which there is no appeal. It reminded Una that she was in the power of one who had shown towards her an inflexible will. At the same time she was conscious of a softening in Sajipona's attitude that was both mystifying and reassuring. This beautiful Indian girl had at first resented Una's presence. She had regarded the other with queenly scorn, and had not disguised the jealous impatience kindled by the brief and futile interview with David. Now this impatience had given place to a deeper emotion that was less easily understood. It might be of kindlier import, an unexpected relenting from the harsh mood that apparently weighed Una's every word and act with suspicion. Still, it was possible that beneath this newly awakened generosity there lurked something sinister, a deliberate purpose to lead the other to a confession that would be her own undoing. Of this, however, Una had little fear. By nature trustful of those about her, she did not look for harm to herself from one so young, so beautiful, and who now, at any rate, appeared anxious to atone for her former enmity by a graciousness equally marked. "There is nothing to fear," said Sajipona, as if reading her thoughts. "Narva will protect your people. There is danger only from your friend, this Raoul Arthur----" "He is not my friend!" exclaimed Una. Sajipona smiled. "We will soon see," she said. "This is the Land of the Condor, all that is left to an ancient race that once ruled over many nations. For centuries the poor remaining handful of my people have managed to live unknown in this little corner of the earth. You are the first--except one other--from the outside world to find your way into this forgotten kingdom. When you will be free to return to the outer world is not for me to say. But, you are here--my guest. Let us have it that way. This is my kingdom. Enter!"