Then Jeekie
addressed them in their own language, asking them what they meant by
defiling this mighty lord, born of the Heavens, with the touch of their
hands, whereat they went on bowing more humbly than before. Next
he threw aside the cushions of the litter and finding the tin box
containing Little Bonsa, held it before him in both hands and bade the
women lead on.
The march began, a bewildering march. It was like a nightmare. Veiled
women with torches before and behind, Jeekie stalking ahead carrying the
battered tin box, long passages lined with gold, a vision of black water
edged with a wide promenade, and finally a large lamp-lit room whereof
the roof was supported by gilded columns, and in the room couches of
cushions, wooden stools inlaid with ivory, vessels of water, great
basins made of some black, hard wood, and in the centre a block of stone
that looked like an altar.
Jeekie set down the tin box upon the altar-like stone, then he turned
to the crowd of women and said, "Bring food." Instantly they departed,
closing the door of the room behind them.
"Now for a wash," said Alan, "unlace this confounded mask, Jeekie.
Pages:
193
194
195
196
197
198
199
200
201
202
203
204
205
206
207
208
209
210
211
212
213
214
215
216
217