not believe that there is a man in Bandokolo who would be willing to
face your fire weapons, even at Bimbane's command: but if you venture to
return to the palace and see her again, rest assured that she will bring
the whole power of her influence to bear upon you in the effort to
persuade you that we have deceived you, and that your original opinion
of her was the correct one. And you best know whether you have now the
strength of will to resist her beguilements. It would be safer,
perhaps, not to risk it, but to take up your abode here with me. I will
send a messenger to your servant, if you like, telling him--"

"No," said I decisively, as the thought that 'Mfuni was still in the
queen's power came to me for the first time, "I must return to the
palace, face the queen, inform her that I now know the truth concerning
her and refuse any longer to remain her guest, and see what comes of it.
As to her seeking to influence me, I have no doubt that she will do
that, but I must take the risk; and now that I am fully convinced of the
truth of all your assertions, I do not greatly dread the result. I will
go at once, and get the interview over; after which I can either return
here or ride to the wagon and make it my abode, as I have already done
for so many months."

"Nay," said Anuti, "you shall certainly not do that. There is ample
room in this house for you, and so long as you remain in Masakisale you
must consent to be my most welcome and honoured guest."

So it was arranged; and then, after a little further conversation, and
reiterated warnings to be on my guard against every possible description
of machination on the part of the queen, I mounted and rode back to the
palace at a hand gallop, determined to get through what was certain to
be a very unpleasant business forthwith. As 'Mfuni came out, at my
approach, to receive my horse, I bade him walk the animal to and fro,
instead of unsaddling him, and hold himself ready to accompany me to new
quarters upon my reappearance. Then, entering the palace, I made my way
straight to the queen's apartments, and sent in a message craving an
immediate interview.

I was admitted at once, and found Her Majesty occupying her usual seat
upon the divan. At my entrance she dismissed her attendants; and, as
soon as we were alone, invited me by a gesture to seat myself at her
side. But I declined, saying that, as my interview would be but brief,
I preferred to stand.

"Nay,