“Does this place belong to you?” asked Ommony, examining the calm, strong profile against the light. He had heard that the sirdar was a wealthy landowner.
“No. The Lama has the temporary use of it.”
“It was kind of you to—how did you express it?—submit yourself to my disposal. What I most need is information,” said Ommony.
“Ah. That is elusive stuff.”
“Not if you keep after it. Tell me what you know about the Lama.”
The sirdar turned his head quickly and looked straight at Ommony.
“Did you receive a note from him?” he asked. “It was tied to the dog’s collar.”
Ommony looked into the baffling dark eyes and could read nothing there except that the sirdar knew much more than he proposed to tell. He was also conscious of dislike, and knew that it was mutual.
“Just to what extent are you at my disposal?” he asked bluntly.
“I am to convey you to another place. Of course, that is, at the proper time and if you wish to go; not otherwise.”