Next, he addressed Charles Keene and Barma Shah. "You two may follow." Then, to the boys, "And you next." Pausing, he looked toward the porters and asked, "Any of these?"
Barma Shah decided to bring Hurdu and three others. So, in the order as arranged, they entered another portico and climbed a short flight of gilded steps into a reception room also decorated in gold. There, Biff was told that he was to enter the throne-room of the Grand Lama alone, while Charles Keene and Barma Shah were to be ready when summoned.
Golden doors were opening when Uncle Charlie whispered to Biff, "Remember, you're meeting one of the wisest men in the East, as I can now believe. Pay close attention." To that, Biff nodded. Then, as trumpets blared, he was ushered through the doors, clutching the ruby that he had carried all along as his final passport to the Grand Lama's presence.
Then Biff reached a throne where a figure in great golden robes and peaked hat awaited him. On each side stood a solemn dignitary, each in similar robes. One asked in a droning tone, "You have brought the Light of the Lama?" Then as Biff solemnly replied, "Yes," the other dignitary ordered, "Give it to the Great One."
No promises, no conditions, no mention of Biff's father. Just hand over the ruby and hope for the best. With a bow, Biff produced the magnificent red gem, which was glowing more vividly than ever. He placed it in the Chonsi Lama's outstretched left hand. Then, hoping to ask the obvious question, he looked up at the Great One.
Biff gasped despite himself. Instead of viewing the austere visage of a man in his mid-fifties, he was looking into the smiling, friendly face of a boy no older than himself. Still weighing the ruby in his left hand, the Chonsi Lama extended his right in greeting, as he said:
"Thank you, Biff!"
XX
The Master Spy
Before Biff could recover from his astonishment, the Chonsi Lama nodded to one of the men beside him. A moment later, a door opened in the side of the room and Mr. Brewster entered, as brisk and smiling as when Biff had last seen him. A glad meeting followed. Then, with his arm around Biff's shoulder, Mr. Brewster approached the throne, where the youthful Lama handed him the ruby, saying, "I know you would like to see this, after all you have done to bring it here."
Biff suddenly felt very much at home with this boy who was so friendly toward his father.