Jaimihr detected something different in her mental attitude, and, since almost any change means weakness to the Oriental mind, he was quick to try to take advantage of it.

He guessed right at the first attempt.
"And what wilt thou do here, sahiba?
When I am gone, and there is none here to love thee--" "Peace!" she commanded.

"Peace! I have suffered enough--" "Thou wilt suffer more, should the Rangars learn--" "That is my business! Let me pass! I have bargained, and I will try to fulfil my part!" She stepped toward the door, but he held out both his arms and she saw them.

She had no intention of being embraced by him, whatever their conspiracy.
"Stand back!" she ordered.
"Nay, nay, sahiba! Listen! Escape with me! These Rangars will not believe without proof that thou hast saved their lives by bargaining.
They will show thee short shrift indeed when my loss is discovered.

Come now and I will make thee Maharanee in a week!" "I would be as safe with one as with the other!" she laughed, something of calm reflection returning to her.