“In all things which concern your welfare—”
“Fear not, Mowbray-sahib. I offer myself twice to no man.”
Her quick transition from melting femininity to stern dominance surprised him as greatly as aught that had gone before. It relieved him, too. Who could deny the truth of Nur Mahal’s estimate of herself, that she was not like unto other women?
“I swear!” he said, wondering what new madness possessed her.
“’Tis well,” she answered. “I shall soon put your fealty to the test.”
Without another word, she passed to the road, where Sainton’s giant figure towered among the group of men and horses. Her quick eyes discovered Jahangir’s messenger, and she addressed him as if he were a servant of lowest rank.
“Ibrahim!” she cried, “did thy master, the Emperor, give thee thy charge in writing?”
The Chief Eunuch bowed obsequiously.
“Knowing your repute for exceeding discernment,” he said, “I even asked the Emperor of the World[J] to honor me with his written command. I carry it with me.”