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 summon Gurgan Khan before him. He then asked Shaibalini,

"Do you know why the Englishmen have taken away the Begum?"

Shaibalini. No, I do not.

Nawab. Where was Pratap at the time?

Shaibalini. He was in the house, and was also taken away.

Nawab. Was there any one else in the house?

Shaibalini. Yes, there was a servant—he too was taken away.

"Do you know why they were taken away?" again enquired the Nawab in an anxious tone.

Hitherto Shaibalini was telling the truth; now she began to tell lies. She said, "No."

Nawab. Who is Pratap Roy? Where does he come from?

Shaibalini gave Pratap's correct designation.

Nawab. What brought him here?

Shaibalini. He came here to enter into the Royal service.

Nawab. What is he to you?

Shaibalini. He is my husband.

Nawab. What is your name?

Shaibalini. My name is Rupashi.