Mallender laughed uncomfortably.
"Your next exploit, must be to find a really nice girl—and marry her."
"I have found her."
"What! Who? Not Tara Beamish? No—no."
"Miss Miller—you may have seen her?"
"Yes, a pretty little fair girl, rides like a bird—had a narrow escape of marrying her father's old pal. That young woman has grit; I give you my consent, and she shall have a suitable wedding present. I'm glad you did not fall in love with the other!"
"Then you've seen the youngest Miss Beamish?"
"Yes, in Bangalore—a beautiful creature, with wild, blue blood in her veins. I've also seen her mother—that was many years ago.—And I knew more of the girl's history, than her adopted parents; but then, as I've told you, I live behind the scenes and hold many secrets. Well, there is no mystery about your future wife, and I wish you joy. The moon is favourable, and to-night, we shall celebrate two great events; your visit to me, and your engagement. I shall inaugurate a big Tamasha and my retainers will call it the feast of the full moon; but to me, it will be the fête of Geoffrey, and his little lady! Now, my boy, this has been a trying interview; I know," and his voice broke, "that you feel for me; but you'd better go now, and come again—I'm rather played out. I know I need not ask you, to keep my secret," again his voice failed, and he sat down, and struck a little hand bell. Instantly the door opened, and the Coorg Princess appeared beckoning from the threshold.
"It has been an amazing exertion," she said as she and Geoffrey stood together in the verandah, "I'm thankful it is over."
"Yes," assented her companion, "so am I."