A British officer is always at his court, and is called a
'resident,' who is the representative of the government. But he does not
meddle with the affairs of the state unless occasion requires."
The houses the tourists passed were all of Indian style, and there were
always towers and pagodas in sight. The region as they passed out of the
city was rural; and finally they came to the great gates of the palace,
which they entered. The grounds were covered with great trees and gardens,
in the midst of which was a palace, where they found the cavalry drawn up
and presenting arms. The elephants were made to kneel down as when the
party mounted them, and they descended by means of ladders.
A host of servants ushered them into the palace, which Lord Tremlyn said
had been appropriated to their use. Their luggage had already been sent to
their apartments; and an hour later the company assembled in the grand
salon, dressed to receive the Guicowar. His Highness did not "put on any
style this time," and was as sociable as any common person. He saluted the
commander and Mrs. Belgrave; and then all the rest of the party were
presented to him by the viscount, and Mrs. Blossom had nearly shaken
herself to pieces during the ceremony.
A bountiful collation was then served in another apartment, at which the
Maharajah presided.
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