Through the open doors of the two bedchambers came a faint glimpse of snow-white linen, a perfume reminiscent at once of almond blossom, green tea, and crushed lavender, and in the little room beyond glistened a silver bath.

Already attired for the voyage, his pilot stood on the threshold.
"Is all well, your Highness ?" he asked.
"Everything is in order," Prince Shan replied.

"Ching Su is a perfect steward." "The reverend gentleman is in his room, your Highness," the pilot went on.

"All the supplies have arrived, and the crew are at their stations.
At what hour will it please your Highness to start ?" Prince Shan looked through the open window, along the wooden platform, out to the broad stretch of road which led to London.
"I announced the hour of my departure as six o'clock," he replied.

"I cannot leave before in case of any farewell message.