I merely seek that duty which seems most fair to all concerned.

Pray tell me then what it is you would ask at my hands.

Nay, wait; before we go into this business be seated here, so we may more easily converse together." It was a low stool beside the couch she indicated, and I could do no less than silently accept her courtesy, the soft, mysterious charm of the woman blunting my prejudice.
"Now, senor," an engaging smile rendering more beautiful the face turned toward me.

"I pray you trust me fully, and state frankly your demands upon Naladi." If slightest sarcasm lurked in these softly spoken words I acknowledge total oblivion to it.

Her fair face was the picture of earnestness, her eyes gazed frankly into mine.
"Our release, Madame." She lifted her white hands in a sudden gesture of expostulation.
"Why ask that?
It is utterly beyond my power, senor--at least, at once," in a tone of despair, convincing me she spoke truly.