LORD OF LIGHT 25
you. I give thanks for your wisdom and forethought. I
do not slander the enterprises of a benefactor and co-
conspirator. In fact, I look forward to the visit."
She smiled and seated herself once more. "I accept
your well-oiled apology, oh son of the serpent. In any
event, it is too difficult to remain angry with you. Pour
me some more tea, please."
They reclined, Ratri sipping her tea, Yama smoking.
In the distance, a storm front drew a curtain across half
the prospect. The sun still shone upon them, however,
and a cool breeze visited the porch.
"You have seen the ring, the ring of iron which he
wears?" asked Ratri, eating another sweetmeat.
"Yes."
"Know you where he obtained it?"
"I do not."
"Nor I. But I feel we should leam its origin."
"Aye."
"How shall we essay this thing?"
"I have assigned the chore to Tak, who is better
suited to the ways of the forest than we. Even now he
follows the trail."
Ratri nodded. "Good," she said.
"I have heard," said Yama, "that the gods do still
occasionally visit the more notable palaces of Kama
throughout the. land, generally in disguise, but some-
times in full power. Is this true?"
"Yes. But a year ago did Lord Indra come to
Khaipur. Some three years back, the false Krishna
made a visit. Of all the Celestial party, Krishna the
Tireless does cause the greatest consternation among
the staff. He stayed for a month of riot, which involved
much broken furniture and the services of many physi-
cians. He did near empty the wine cellar and the lar-
