This ready cordiality was as perplexing as all the rest.

Could it be possible, I thought, I had been fighting with a phantom all this while, and yet the king had not been able to perceive it?
At all events, now, as the key to his door had been given, I would make good use of it and watch the result.

Meanwhile Nasib returned from the queen-dowager's palace without having seen her majesty, though he had waited there patiently the whole day long, for she was engaged in festivities, incessantly drumming and playing, in consequence of the birth of twins (Mabassa), which had just taken place in her palace; but he was advised to return on the morrow.
8th .-- After breakfast I walked to the palace, thinking I had gained all I wanted; entered, and fired guns, expecting an instant admittance; but, as usual, I was required to sit and wait; the king was expected immediately.

All the Wagungu talked in whispers, and nothing was heard but the never-ceasing harps and harmonicons.

In a little while I felt tired of the monotony, and wished to hang up a curtain, that I might lie down in privacy and sleep till the king was ready; but the officers in waiting forbade this, as contrary to law, and left me the only alternative of walking up and down the court to kill time, spreading my umbrella against the powerful rays of the sun.