Here, at a table not far from the entrance, stood another official, not wearing the uniform of the Court, with several documents in his hand.

As he turned to salute me, his face wore an expression of annoyance and discomfiture which not a little surprised me, till, by following his sidelong, uncomfortable glances, I perceived a veiled feminine figure, which could be no other than Eveena's.

Misreading my surprise, the official said-- "It is no fault of mine, and I have not spoken except to remonstrate, as far as might be allowed, against so unusual a proceeding." He must have been astonished and annoyed indeed to take such notice of a stranger's wife; and, above all, to take upon himself to comment on her conduct for good or ill.

I thought it best to make no reply, and simply saluted him in form as I received the first paper handed to me, to which, by the absence of any blank space, I perceived that my signature was not required.

This was indeed the document which bestowed on me the house and estate presented by the Sovereign.