Page:Chandra Shekhar.djvu/208

 Answer. Yes, there is.

Shaibalini. What is that?

Answer. Death.

Shaibalini. Yes, this will suit me—I will die. Who are you, please?

Shaibalini got no reply. She then said in a piteous voice, "Whoever you may be, I need not know it. I take you to be the presiding deity of these hills and make obeisance to you. Be pleased to give me one more information. Where is my husband now?"

Answer. Why do you want to know of it?

Shaibalini. Will it not be my lot to see him again?

Answer. You will see him when you have undergone the penance, I first prescribed for you.

Shaibalini. After twelve long years?

Answer. Yes, after twelve years.

Shaibalini. How long shall I stand this ordeal—If I die within these twelve years?

Answer. Then you will see him at the time of your death.

Shaibalini. Is there nothing which can enable me to see him before that? You are a divine being, and you certainly know of it.