When the murmurs died away she spoke in Hindustani: "I will face the arena lions!" The murmurs rose again, gaining such volume that they became roars, which the disturbed beasts took up and augmented.
Again Kathlyn made a sign for silence, and added: "Provided my sister stands at my side!" To this Umballa said no.

The multitude shouted defiance.

In the arena they were masters, even as the populace in the old days of Rome were masters of their emperors.
Winnie, comprehending that this was her cue, stepped forward in the box and signified by gestures that she would join her sister.
The roaring began again, but this time it had the quality of cheers.

A real spectacle! To face the savage African lions unarmed! A fine spectacle! Winnie was lowered from the box, and as her feet touched the ground she ran quickly to Kathlyn's side.
"Winnie, I am standing on a trap.

When it sinks be not alarmed." "My Kit!" cried Winnie, squeezing her adored sister's hand.
The arena was cleared, and the doors to the lions' dens were opened.
The great maned African lions stood for a moment blinking in the sunshine.