As Zyna bowed down blushingly, Lurlee seized the opportunity of pressing her suit.
"Lady," she said, putting up her hands in a respectful attitude, "thine ear for a moment. I had a petition——"
"Ah, Khánum!" returned Fyz-ool-Nissa, with a look of disappointment; "I had marked this day for rejoicing; for the heavy cloud which has hung over my head so long is gone, and thou hast brought me a petition, and I hate them. I never get matters arranged as I like, and am vexed——To-morrow, lady?"
"Only for my husband would I speak," replied Lurlee, firmly. "He and his son were decoyed to the Kótwallee early to-day, and they cannot get to the King. It must not be that Afzool Khan is counted a laggard. O lady——!" and here Lurlee, unable to contain herself longer, burst into tears.
Fyz-ool-Nissa looked to Zyna, and saw a confirmation of Lurlee's tale in the face—in those great eyes brimful of tears, and quivering lips.
"Hush!" said the Bégum, "this must not be known. O that there were any one to write!"
"I—I can write," said Zyna, timidly.
"Thou, girl? well done! Now," she continued, as an attendant brought a writing-case, "write what thou wilt, but be quick."
It was soon done. A few words, but enough for the purpose.