The second priest now interposed. "Let them pass," he admonished his companion. "We have received no direct commands from Lu-don to the contrary and it is a law of the temple and the palace that chiefs and priests may come and go without interference."
"But I know Lu-don's wishes," insisted the other.
"He told you then that Ja-don must not pass with the stranger?"
"No—but—"
"Then let them pass, for they are three to two and will pass anyway—we have done our best."
Grumbling, the priest stepped aside. "Lu-don will exact an accounting," he cried angrily.
Ja-don turned upon him. "And get it when and where he will," he snapped.
They came at last to the quarters of the Princess O-lo-a where, in the main entrance-way, loitered a small guard of palace warriors and several stalwart black eunuchs belonging to the princess, or her women. To one of the latter Ja-don relinquished his charge.
"Take her to the princess," he commanded, "and see that she does not escape."
Through a number of corridors and apartments lighted by stone cressets the eunuch led Lady Greystoke halting at last before a doorway concealed by hangings of JATO skin, where the guide beat with his staff upon the wall beside the door.