"The happy Kaou-tsung forgot about the hunt, and returned at once to his imperial palace, carrying Woo How with him. It was so ordained that Maou-yen-show was not of the party that attended the Emperor that day, and knew nothing of his meeting with Woo How. Immediately upon his arrival at court Kaou-tsung gave the following order:
"'Keeper of the Yellow Gate, bring us that picture that we may view it.'
"Looking from it to the charming original before him he exclaimed feelingly:
"'Ah, how he has dimmed the purity of the gem, bright as the waves in autumn!'
"Then turning to the attendant he said:
"'Transmit our pleasure to the officer of the guard to behead Maou-yen-show and report to us his execution.'"
CHAPTER XVI.
"The rascal, it was just what he deserved," Wang cried hotly, and Tuen, her eyes shining like stars, said softly: