"No, I didn't." Rasaldû's face fell like that of an offended child, and Meredith hastened to add lightly:
"It was a very small affair—only a handful of Miss Boucicault's women friends and an odd male or two like myself. Miss Fersen was there as a matter of course. I don't think any affair in Gaya could get along without her."
The Rajah chuckled, flattered and reassured.
"No, I suppose not. A wonderful woman. Well, I daresay she had to go. Anything I can do for you, Meredith? Want a new schoolhouse or anything like that?"
"I want money, Rajah," Meredith returned promptly.
"Thought so. You shall have it. Let me have the list and I'll head it with as much as you like——"
"Hadn't you better hear what it's for?" Meredith suggested.
Rasaldû shook his head.
"Oh, I don't know; that's hardly my business."
"In this case, I think. It concerns one of your own people, Rajah."