Lay the food-bag at the foot, it balances better so.' 'Oh, Holy One, thy Hills are kinder than our Plains!' cried Kim, relieved, as the lama tottered to the litter.

'It is a very king's bed--a place of honour and ease.

And we owe it to--' 'A woman of ill-omen.

I need thy blessings as much as I do thy curses.
It is my order and none of thine.

Lift and away! Here! Hast thou money for the road ?' She beckoned Kim to her hut, and stooped above a battered English cash-box under her cot.
'I do not need anything,' said Kim, angered where he should have been grateful.