Did I not tell you, the other night, how the chief from Marocco offered her a splendid diamond ring to induce her to intreat her husband's favour in something—I know not what,—and how she flushed with indignation as she refused it, and told the chief that all the diamonds in the world could not move her to attempt the leading of her husband from the path of duty? No, I will not ask her to become a spy, but I will lead her, in conversation, to tell me all she knows, or at least is willing to communicate, about Sidi Hassan; and perchance some good may come of it."
"It may be so," said the Dey; "and where and when dost thou propose to meet with her?"
"Here, and to-morrow."
"How! in the palace?"
"Yes. Ask her and her little girl to come and dine with me," said Ashweesha.
"That would be a high compliment," returned the Dey dubiously; "such as has never been paid before, methinks, by a Dey of Algiers to any consul's wife."
"No matter," returned the Sultana; "you have a high regard for Colonel Langley, and have often paid him unusual compliments,—why not compliment his wife?"
"Well, it shall be done. To-morrow afternoon prepare to receive her."
