"I will lead you first to the room that is prepared for you, and then take you to Fazli Ali." The room was a commodious one, and the richness of the covering of the divan, and the handsome rugs spread on the floor, were satisfactory signs that the chamberlain considered them prime favourites of the sultan.

Having seen the box placed in a corner, and paid the coolie, they followed the attendant along some spacious corridors and passages, until they entered a room where Fazli Ali was seated on a divan.

The attendant let the curtains that covered the door drop behind them, as they entered.
They salaamed to the chamberlain, who looked at them approvingly, and motioned to them to take their seats on the divan beside him.
"I see," he said kindly, "that you possess good judgment, as well as courage and quickness.

The former qualities have won you a place here, but judgment will be needed to keep it.

You have laid out your money well, as the sultan loves to see all in the Palace well attired; and quiet also, and discreet in behaviour." "Can you give us any idea what our duties will be ?" Surajah asked, as Dick had requested him always to be the spokesman, if possible.
The chamberlain shook his head.
"That will be for the sultan himself to decide.