“What you ask, my lord, is full of danger. You must not be seen in the streets—yet. Untold bloodshed would ensue inevitably. To half the Thomahlians you are sacred, and to the other half an impostor. I repeat, my lord, that I must see the Geos and the queen.”

Another bow and the Jan disappeared, to return in a few moments with the Geos.

“The Jan has told me, my lord, that you would go out.”

“If possible. I want to see your world.”

“I think it can be arranged. Is your lordship ready to go?”

“Presently.” Watson laid a hand on the big globe he had already puzzled over. “This represents the Thomahlia?”

“Yes, my lord.”

“How long is your day, Geos?”

“Twenty-four hours.”

“I mean, how many revolutions in one circuit of the sun, in one year-circle?”