When the party entered they found the king seated in an apartment open to
the air of heaven on two sides. All were barefoot or in their stocking-feet
except the Gruicowar, who occupied a bench, or platform, at one side. He
had removed his state garments, and was dressed in a suit of white linen.
Most of the native officials present were seated on the floor; but the
gentlemen of the visitors were invited to sit with his Highness, though
only Lord Tremlyn and Sir Modava accepted it.
CHAPTER XXVII
VARIOUS COMBATS IN THE GUICOWAR'S ARENA
The party remained a week at the palace of the Guicowar, and every day had
a new pleasure or recreation. The king was as familiar with all the members
as though they had belonged to his own household. He was sociable with
them, and they ceased to be embarrassed in his presence. Even Mrs. Blossom
no longer trembled before him, and he was as jolly with the boys as though
he had been one of them.
On the day after the Sowari the gentlemen of the party were conducted to
the arena of the elephants, which was a large enclosure, reminding those
who had seen them of the bull-rings of Spain. It was surrounded by
buildings; and on one side, behind a wall, was a vast area of elevated
ground from which the people of the town could witness the scenes presented
in the arena.
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