The weather was frightfully hot. The air in the grove was even more suffocating than the flaming atmosphere of the plains. Indeed the natural query of a foreigner when he is so unfortunate as to be caught during the hot season in that paradise of poisonous serpents, fierce wild animals and furnace-like temperature, is "What is this infernal country good for?"
Furthermore, it must be borne in mind that the fugitives had not eaten anything for a long time, and despite the mental worry and intense heat, they were in need of food. Marian stated the case to Luchman, who said he could easily get them something. He cautioned all to stay where they were, to avoid loud talking, and to keep their ears and eyes open.
This was the first genuine rest since their hurried flight from Delhi the night before. Of course they had to cease travel during the heat of the day, but their anxiety to get away from the imperiled capital was so intense that the mere cessation from walking gave them little rest. Now, when there was cause for feeling that they were safe from molestation, the pause was of the most refreshing nature.
Luchman being absent, Dr. Avery drew the missionary aside and questioned him concerning a matter which had been in his mind for some time. The young man did this in the most indifferent manner he could assume.
"Mr. Hildreth," said he, carelessly whittling a stick, "it seems to me that somewhere, since coming into this part of the world, I have heard about 'The Star of India:' can you tell me to what the expression refers?"
The good man looked at him with a smile and said:
"Of course I can; and so can almost any one who has spent much time in Delhi or Lucknow or Cawnpore, and I should say in Calcutta, but you seem ignorant. The Star of India is a famous diamond."
"And why famous?"
"It is very large—weighing nearly fifty carats, is of the first water, and like all such stones has a history."
"Let me hear it."