So Damini had her way, and came along with us. When
Jagamohan was about to call for the police, the young man said:I am Nonis
cousin.
Harimohan shed tears while meditating on the
neglect offilial duties in this god-forsaken age.
Thatvexed Damini still more, for she looked on it
as a more cunning formof punishment. As pall-bearer to the leather-dealers, I
suppose? I may be your elder in age, but dontyou know you are greater than I am, for
you are my mother? Harimohans whole body shrank with the utter infamy of the
thing.
It is necessary to relate Daminis previous history.
The Swami was resting in the front room, with the door ajar. But a short time ago
her mother had died.
Jagamohan opened the letter, and read:Baba, forgive
me.
Without, the curves of youthenveloped her in their
fulness, within flashed fitful fires.
I tried my best,but I could never forget him. One
of their friends had taken away this girl.
Satish answered: I have no particular desire to
marry.
Did not his call reach you at thevery
moment?
When Jagamohan was about to call for the police,
the young man said:I am Nonis cousin. Jagamohan tookNonibala to his upper room, and
said to her: Mother, look what astate my room is in!
Be sure that both these are the gift of that same
uncle of ours. I have a great longing to seeyou nicely dressed, and you must satisfy
my desire. The Lord, said he,takes a special delightin wrestling with a valiant
opponent. Harimohan hastened round to Satishs lodgings. Jagamohan caught hold of
Purandar by his neck, and shoved him out ofthe room and down the stairs. Noni woke
up and saw Purandar before her. When Damini has to own defeat,her surrender will be
absolute. Another evening Damini happened to be at home.
Harimohans whole body shrank with the utter infamy
of the thing.
Satish handed his Master the lighted pipe and sat
down on the barefloor near his feet.
We have seen manyawful women, but not one so
outrageous.
How have you managed to get yourself entangled in
this kind of bondageto-day? I wouldnt give a brass farthing for a blessing,
myself.
Jagamohans lawyers assured him that the decision
could be upset by anappeal to the higher Court. That, however, didnot attract our
notice then. He has some words of advice for you andbids you attend. One of their
friends had taken away this girl. When evening came, and the old servant knockedat
the door with the lighted lamp, he got no answer.