Moreover, the present Khania, our hostess, was the last of the direct line of rulers, her husband and cousin having less of the blood royal in his veins, and as such the people were attached to her.
Also, as is commonly the case with bold and beautiful women, she was popular among them, especially as she was just and very liberal to the poor.

These were many, as the country was over-populated, which accounted for its wonderful state of cultivation.

Lastly they trusted to her skill and courage to defend them from the continual attacks of the Mountain tribes who raided their crops and herds.

Their one grievance against her was that she had no child to whom the khanship could descend, which meant that after her death, as had happened after that of her father, there would be struggles for the succession.
"Indeed," added Simbri, with meaning, and glancing at Leo, out of the corners of his eyes, "the folk say openly that it would be a good thing if the Khan, who oppresses them and whom they hate, should die, so that the Khania might take another husband while she is still young.

Although he is mad, he knows this, and that is why he is so jealous of any lord who looks at her, as, friend Holly, you saw to-night.