"It should have been another girl. Then there'd be no cannon."
"And no heir." Jadar turned to leave and Mumtaz eased herself back on the bolster. Then she lifted herself again and called Jadar.
"Who is escorting the English feringhi to Agra?"
"Unfortunately it's Vasant Rao. And just when I need him. But he demanded to do it personally."
"I'm glad." Mumtaz smiled weakly. "Have him see one of my servants before they leave."
"Why should I bother him with that?"
"To humor me." She paused. "Is this feringhi handsome?"
"Why do you ask?"
"A woman's curiosity."
"I haven't seen him yet. I do suspect he's quick. Perhaps too quick. But I'll find out more tomorrow. And then I'll decide what I have to do." Jadar paused at the doorway, while the dai pulled aside the curtains that had been newly hung. "Sleep. And watch over my new prince. He's our first victory in the Deccan. I pray to Allah he's not our last."