Finally an arrangement was arrived at in London to the effect that the
Pench should be the boundary between Russia and Afghanistan in the Pamir
territory. A few months later we were met by an English expedition on
the Sarykul; we were to determine the exact boundary-line together. It
was great fun; our English comrades tried hard not to let us see that
they had orders to be complacent. We had soon discovered it, and drew
the line just as we pleased. The upshot was that only a very narrow
strip of land between Bukhara and the Indian border remained to the
Ameer, and that he had to undertake neither to station troops there nor
to erect fortifications. Our territory had been pushed forward up to
within about twelve miles of English territory. It is there that we are
closest to India, and we can, if we choose, at any time descend from
the passes of the Hindu-Kush to the Chitral Valley, within the British
sphere of influence."

A servant, bringing an invitation to Heideck from Mrs. Baird to dine
with them that evening, interrupted the conversation. The Captain
was scarcely able to disguise his pleasure; he had no doubt that this
invitation was due to Edith, and was happy in the prospect of seeing her
again.

"You are on good terms with the Colonel," said the Prince, as soon as
the servant had left with Heideck's letter of acceptance. "This can be
of the greatest assistance to you under present circumstances. Do make
him give you a passport and come with me."

"I am sorry, Prince! I should be delighted to travel in such pleasant
company, but business keeps me here a little longer for the present."

"Well--as you please--I must not try to over-persuade you; but I will