Kim made as to scratch in his bosom, and thereby lifted his own amulet.

The Mahratta's face changed altogether at the sight, and he disposed the amulet fairly on his breast.
'Yes,' he went on to the Kamboh, 'I was in haste, and the cart, driven by a bastard, bound its wheel in a water-cut, and besides the harm done to me there was lost a full dish of tarkeean.

I was not a Son of the Charm [a lucky man] that day.' 'That was a great loss,' said the Kamboh, withdrawing interest.

His experience of Benares had made him suspicious.
'Who cooked it ?' said Kim.
'A woman.' The Mahratta raised his eyes.
'But all women can cook tarkeean,' said the Kamboh.

'It is a good curry, as I know.' 'Oh yes, it is a good curry,' said the Mahratta.
'And cheap,' said Kim.