To give to the suggestion the necessary persuasive power, the young Prince was to be brought back at once, so that he might be ready at a moment's notice to succeed.

This reason, however, was not given to Shere Ali.

He was merely informed by the Indian Government that he must return to his country at once.
Shere Ali stood before Mrs.Oliver.
"You will give me a dance ?" he said.
"After supper," she replied, and she laid her hand within Linforth's arm.
But Shere Ali did not give way.
"Where shall I find you ?" he asked.
"By the door, here." And upon that Shere Ali's voice changed to one of appeal.

There came a note of longing into his voice.

He looked at Violet Oliver with burning eyes.