` They will not run away as the others did , nor will they steal baggage . Two I know for weaklings . Stand to the rear-pole , Sonoo and Taree . ' They obeyed swiftly . ` Lower now , and lift in that holy man . I will see to the village and your virtuous wives till ye return . ' ` When will that be ? ' ` Ask the priests . Do not pester me . 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 XXXXX , angered where he should have been grateful . '
Hills Kim Sonoo Taree cash-box cot food-bag lama rear-pole weaklings