This passage underscores the active role of the narrator in the novel, as well as Mahbub’s shortcomings as a spy. Despite his cleverness in having Kim deliver his message, reasoning that a lama and his disciple will not be scrutinized on the road, Mahbub easily falls prey to the seductive trappings of the “Flower of Delight.” In this context, Mahbub’s frequent criticism of women throughout the novel looks increasingly comical and unfounded, a product more of his own foolhardiness than of any inherent flaw in women.