Prince Azim meanwhile invited me to inspect his sword and pistols.

The former, a splendid Damascus blade, and hilt encrusted with jewels, I especially admired.

Had I known the use to which it had been put that morning, I should not, perhaps, have been so enthusiastic.
Again the Khan addressed me.
"Do you know Russia well ?" "Pretty well." "Is it true that the Russians do not allow Mohammedans to worship in Central Asia ?" "I believe that is untrue." "It is a lie ?" "Most certainly it is." "Your own countrymen told me so." At this there was a roar of laughter, in which the Khan joined.
The durbar-room of Kelat reminded me of an English court of justice.
When the Khan laughed his courtiers did, and _vice versa_.

After an interval of more snuff-taking and whispering, the Khan drew forth and examined my watch.

Taking this for a polite hint that the interview had lasted long enough, I rose to go, but was at once thrust back into my chair by Azim.