The King of kings did not give me the cup, I bought it from him in exchange for a certain famous bow, and therefore held it not wrong to pass it on to you, my lord." Idernes made no answer and seemed to forget the matter.
A while later, however, his eye fell upon Amada and the rose-hued pearls she wore, and again he asked a question of the hawk-eyed captain, then said, "Think me not discourteous, O Prince, if I seem to look upon yonder lovely lady which in our country, where women do not appear in public, we should think it an insult to do.

But on her fair breast I see certain pearls like to some that are known throughout the world, which for many years have been worn by those who sit upon the throne of the East.

I would ask if they are the same, or others ?" "I do not know, O Idernes," answered Peroa; "I only know that the lord Shabaka brought them from the East.

Inquire of him, if it be your pleasure." "Shabaka again----" began Idernes, but I cut him short, saying, "Yes, O Satrap, Shabaka again.

I won those pearls in a bet from the Great King, and with them a certain weight of gold.