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200 were still in vogue, she would have had half a dozen daughters-in-law by this time. Don't let that disturb you further. I am asking for a reply to my appeal."

What could I say? Was I not his, body and soul? How could I tell him that I was to become the wife of another? At last I replied timidly, hardly knowing myself how I came to say it:

"I am engaged. Father has already settled my marriage."

How strangely sad he looked, how strangely still the room seemed, for neither of us dared to speak after that for a long time.

I saw the struggle that went on within him. At last he spoke, but his voice was barely audible.

"What made Mr. Mazumdar behave in this way? However, let that pass, it should be discussed with him. I ask you only to reply to one question. Do you wish to marry the man your father has selected for you?"

All at once I lost my shyness, I lifted my head high and looked into his eyes as I spoke.

"No, I do not wish it. I have loved you