head, surmounted by a plume of bird of
paradise feathers, with a sparkling aigrette in front. He had large
moustaches, and an enormous white beard flowing over his breast. By his
side reclined a lady, also handsomely dressed, her features of rare
beauty, and her complexion scarcely darker than that of an Italian. The
rajah was smoking a hookah of elegant workmanship. He took it from his
lips when the strangers advanced, and expressed his satisfaction at
receiving them.

"My grandchild, Nuna, desired to see you, as Englishmen at present
rarely visit my court," he said, after the usual complimentary speeches
had been exchanged; "except my worthy friend there, the khan, she has
never set eyes on a white man."

While the rajah was speaking, Captain Burnett could with difficulty
avoid fixing his gaze on the lovely features of the young girl, though
he felt it would be contrary to court etiquette to do so.

"And what brought you to my city?" asked the rajah.

"We had heard of your highness's wisdom and renown, and as we desired to
visit the chief objects of interest in this part of the world, we came
to see your city, in the hope of enjoying the happiness of an interview
with your highness," answered Burnett, who had considerable experience
in the proper style of addressing Oriental potentates. The rajah looked
pleased.

"And whence do you come? Do you belong to the Company?" he asked,
turning to Reginald.

"Most of my days have been spent on the salt ocean, your highness,"
answered Reginald; "and my desire is to see the wonders of the interior
part of the country."

"An extraordinary life yours must have been," observed the rajah. "They
tell me that ships are tossed about on the waves like balls in the hands
of jugglers, and sometimes are thrown on the rocks, and at others go
down to the bottom. Extraordinary that men should be found to hazard
their lives on so treacherous an element!"

"An existence on the ocean has its advantages as well as its dangers,"
answered Reginald. "Without ships men cannot visit other lands, or
carry the produce of this magnificent country to England, and bring back
her manufactures in return."

"You speak the truth, young sir," said the rajah, evidently pleased with
Reginald's manner. "You and your friend are welcome to remain in
Allahapoor as long as you please; and I shall be glad to see you again."

Captain Burnett, knowing that this was a signal for their departure,
off