India, Oct. 31 -- It was an ordinary working afternoon in 1950. The Home Secretary, HVR Iengar, sat close to Sardar Patel's bedside, listening to the frail yet firm voice of the Deputy Prime Minister of India. Ill health had slowed Patel's body, but not his mind. Even from home, he continued to guide the newly independent nation's administrative machinery.

Just then, Patel's daughter Maniben walked in.

"Bapu, the Maharaja of Patiala is here to meet you."

"Now?" Patel looked up. "Did he have an appointment?"

When told that the Maharaja had simply dropped by casually to enquire about his health, Iengar stood up so that Patel could meet his distinguished royal guest.

"Where are you going?" Patel turned to Iengar.

"I'll wait outside," s...