"I speak," said the other, haughtily, "for India. I speak for the India which has waited ever since 1857."
"For a repetition of the artillery salutes fired by the British in 1858?"
Ali's face darkened with sudden passion. "Your tact, Mr. Brand, is most English. Yes, I have the honour to speak for the India which has waited since the artillery salutes of 1858."
"And how am I to serve you?"
"I come, Mr. Brand, to the future Dictator of the world, not to ask favours, but to confer them."
"Indeed, you are too kind. Go on, sir."
"I must warn you first that Lyonesse has been captured."
"You don't say so."
"Also that all your ships are taken, save two which are homeward bound, and will be secured on their arrival. Your yacht has gone to the city to guard the ex-Queen. You are helpless in the hands of your enemies. I have come to save you."
"Indeed." Brand reached forward across the desk, and touched an electric bell. "How you escaped from the guard, I don't quite know," he said; "I have rung to inquire."