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 Shekhar was then about forty years of age. He was tall in stature, and his body was proportionately stout. He had a large head, with a broad forehead, which was anointed with Chandan.*

While entering the bedroom, Shaibalini thought what she would say to her husband when he would inquire the cause of her returning so late. Chandra Shekhar, however, did not say a word when she entered into the room. He was then busily engaged in making out the sense of a particular text of the Brahmasutras.*

Now, Shaibalini burst into laughter. It was then that Chandra Shekhar looked up, and asked, "Why is the flash of beauty so untimely to-day?"

Shaibalini.  I thought you would chide me in anger.

Chandra Shekhar.  Why?

Shaibalini.  Because I am late in returning from the ghat.

Chandra Shekhar.  Oh, I see! You are just come! Why so late?

Shaibalini.  An Englishman had come to the ghat. Your cousin Sundari was on the bank at the time and she ran away leaving me alone. I was in the water and could not come up for fear.