Travers caught the flash of the cunning, suspicious eyes and knew that the man had lied. But he said nothing, dismissing him and his captive with a gesture. Only for an instant, governed by an irresistible instinct, he glanced over his shoulder. He saw then that the woman's head was turned toward him and that one white hand was raised as though in mingled appeal and imperative command. Travers nodded almost imperceptibly and she disappeared into the shadows of the corridor. For some minutes Travers remained motionless, then, as though nothing unusual had happened, he resumed his critical survey of the precious stones with which the pillars were adorned, apparently so absorbed that he did not notice the sound of approaching footsteps. Only when he was called by name did he look up with a start of pleased surprise. "Ah, Your Highness!" he exclaimed. The young prince stood in the curtained doorway, dressed as though he had just returned from riding. He was dusty and travel-stained and, in spite of his energetic, upright bearing, he looked exhausted. There were heavy lines under the keen eyes, and Travers noticed for the first time that his cheeks were slightly hollow, giving his whole appearance an air of haggard weariness. He lifted his hand in return to Travers' salute, and came forward with a welcoming smile. "My servants told me I should find you here," he said. "I hope the time of waiting has not been too long?" "Indeed, no!" Travers returned, as he descended the throne steps. "I have been amusing myself right royally. You have surely the most perfect collection of stones in India." "They are well enough," Nehal answered, his smile deepening. "Have you been calculating how many rupees they will bring in?" The remark, which at another time would have called a frank laugh of agreement from Travers, caused him instead a faint feeling of annoyance. "Perhaps I have," he said, not without a suggestion of bitterness, "but I am still sufficiently alive to beauty to be able to appreciate it apart from its intrinsic value." Nehal Singh motioned him to take his seat at the low table which a servant had at that moment brought in. "Forgive me," he said. "I fear my remark hurt you. I thought as a business man you had only one standpoint from which you judged--you told me as much."