"Maybe. I shall never try it. I am more of the East than the West. But I will answer Samson. Bimbu shall remain here lest he talk too much, but the dog shall take a letter to Tom Tripe at dawn. Samson knew hours ago that I have flown the nest. He will wonder how Tom Tripe holds communication with me, and so swiftly, and will have greater respect for him—which may serve us later."
"Let me add a letter to my husband then, to tell him I'm safe."
"Surely. But now eat. Eat and be strong. Can you stand? Can you walk?
Have the maids put new life in you?"
Tess was astonished at her swift recovery. She was a little stiff—a little weak—a little tired; but she could walk up and down the room with her natural gait and Yasmini clapped her hands.
"I will order food brought. Listen! Tonight I am Abhisharika. Do you know what that is—Abhisharika?"
Tess shook her head.
"I go to my lover of my own accord!"
"That sounds more like West than East!"
"You think so? You shall come with me and see! You shall play the part of cheti (the indispensable hand-maiden)—you and Hasamurti. You must dress like her. Simply be still and watch, and you shall see!"