At the far end steps rose again to a great platform and to gilded arches through which lights poured in a blaze, and gave to that end almost the appearance of a lighted stage, and made of the courtyard a darkened auditorium.

From one flight of steps to the other, in the dim cool light, the guests passed across the floor of the court, soldiers in uniforms, civilians in their dress of state, jewelled princes of the native kingdoms, ladies in their bravest array.

But now and again one or two would slip from the throng, and, leaving the procession, take their own way about the Fort.

Among those who slipped away was Violet Oliver.

She went to the side of the courtyard where a couch stood empty.