“You did just now,” interrupted Alan in his turn, and shrugging.
“Only because I wish to learn where the jewels are hidden.”
“Indeed. You will find that difficult, since for over one hundred years, the riddle of the peacock has been unsolved.”
“Never mind,” said Bakche doggedly. “If I see the bird I shall probably be able to learn the truth.”
“And then?——” Alan raised his eyebrows again.
“Then,” said the other confidently, “I shall take the jewels.”
“You may not be allowed.”
“Why not. The jewels belong to me as the descendant of the Rajah of Kam.”
“You forget,” said Fuller smoothly, “that the rajah’s wife gave the same to George Inderwick because he saved her life and the life of her son.”
“She had no right to do so,” cried Bakche loudly, “the jewels were not her private property to dispose of, Mr. Fuller. They belonged to the family—to the state as it were. Royal treasure cannot be parted with in this way.”