possible. What had Lacey said? "A few thousand men by parcel-post, and
some red seals-British officers."

"We meet under different circumstances," she replied meaningly. "You
were asking a great favour then."

"Ah, but of you, madame?"

"I think you appealed to me when you were doubtful of the result."

"Well, madame, it may be so--but, yes, you are right; I thought you were
Claridge Pasha's kinswoman, I remember."

"Excellency, you said you thought I was Claridge Pasha's kinswoman."

"And you are not?" he asked reflectively.

He did not understand the slight change that passed over her face. His
kinswoman--Claridge Pasha's kinswoman!

"I was not his kinswoman," she answered calmly. "You came to ask a
favour then of Claridge Pasha; your life-work to do under him. I
remember your words: 'I can aid thee in thy great task. Thou wouldst
remake our Egypt, and my heart is with you. I would rescue, not destroy.
. . . I would labour, but my master has taken away from me the anvil,
the fire, and the hammer, and I sit without the door like an armless
beggar.' Those were your words, and Claridge Pasha listened and
believed, and saved your life and gave you work; and now again you
have power greater than all others in Egypt."