“Has Ama appointed you so soon?” inquired Paul.
“The High Priestess has nothing to do with the appointment. It is the law,” he retorted.
“But she is the Supreme Ruler,” said Chaka. “If she does not approve—”
“She must approve!” cried Katalat fiercely. “Otherwise—”
“Well, what then?” asked Paul, as he paused.
The telephone bell rang. We had placed the instrument just outside our room, in the passage, so it would be convenient to the priests and to us. I started to answer the summons, but the priest blocked my way.
“Stop!” he commanded. “I forbid you to communicate again with the High Priestess.”
Paul nodded to Ned, who reached out an arm, grabbed Katalat by the collar and whirled him into a corner, where the big mate stood guard over him.
“Answer the telephone, Sam,” said Allerton.
As I went I heard the priest vowing dire vengeance. It was Ama calling as I had expected.