Also he saw that about thirty yards behind and separated from him by a bodyguard, was borne a second litter.

By means of a similar aperture in front he discovered yet more soldiers, and beyond them, at the head of the procession, was what appeared to be a body of white-robed men and women bearing strange emblems and banners.

These he took to be priests and priestesses.
Having examined everything that was within reach of his eye, Alan sank back upon his cushions and began to realize that he was very faint and hungry.

It was just then that the sound of a familiar voice reached his ears.

It was the voice of Jeekie, and he did not speak, he chanted in English to a melody which Alan at once recognized as a Gregorian tone, apparently from the second litter.
"Oh, Major," he sang, "have you yet awoke from refre-e-eshing sleep?
If so, please answer me in same tone of voice, for remember that you de-e-evil of a swell, Lord of the Little Bonsa, and must not speak like co-o-ommon cad." Feeble as he was Alan nearly burst out laughing, then remembering that probably he was expected not to laugh, chanted his answer as directed, which having a good tenor voice, he did with some effect, to the evident awe and delight of all the escort within hearing.
"I am awake, most excellent Jee-e-ekie, and feel the need of food, if you have such a thing abou-ou-out you and it is lawful for the Lord of Little Bonsa to take nu-tri-ment." Instantly Jeekie's deep voice rose in reply.
"That good tidings upon the mountain tops, Ma-ajor.