‘No. Is it splendid?’

‘Tut, tut. Neither of our fathers would be happy if I didn’t correct this. This is a terrific town, I’ll come along too if you like.’

‘Oh, yes, if Mrs Lewis doesn’t mind.’

‘And the Kalighat Temple but not if you like goats.’

‘Why not?’

‘They tend to slaughter them...’

‘Oh dear.’

‘Would you leave it to me? I’ll arrange little outings. It will save you from tearing your hair out. Beautiful hair if I may say so.’

‘Oh...’ Susan blushed. ‘Mrs Lewis dressed me. For tonight I mean.’

‘Did she really? Did she really...’

They paused a moment and the sound of the mullahs started from the minaret.

‘I love that sound,’ said Susan. ‘I don’t know why but I just do.’

‘In return - can I ask a small favour? Now don’t look so scared.’

‘Well of course I can’t promise, but go on.’

‘Of course. I’ve been invited to a house party by the Maharaja of Kooch Behar. He’s a very decent, highly cultured man and round here, the king of kings. He went to Eton you know.’

‘Really?’

‘He has a rather wonderful woodland palace about four hours drive from Cal. He’s a good chap and just the kind of man Mrs Lewis detests - an intelligent Indian. He fills his house with artists and thinkers. Not sure why I’m invited at all! In fact I was going to say no-‘

‘Oh you shouldn’t, it sounds fun -’

‘Well, exactly. Well what I was wondering was if you’ll think about coming with me. We’d have to spend the night but don’t worry about that, after lights out all