Page:Durgesa Nandini.djvu/208

 then prepared to return with her attendants. Laughing, she took leave of Bimala. The latter, who knew nothing of Aesha's heart, said with a laugh,

"Dear Princess, now it will be our turn to be invited on the auspicious occasion of your wedding."

Leaving Bimala, Aesha came to Tilottama, aud took her to a soliary chamber.

"Sister," said she, taking Tilottama's hand, "I go now. May you enioy happiness and length of days. This only is my heart-felt prayer."

"And pray," said Tilottama, "after how long shall I see you again?"

"Alas! How can I" replied Aesha, "entertain the hope of ever seeing you again?"

Tilottama became sad. Both remained silent.

"Whether we meet or not," said Aesha after a pause, "but will you forget Aesha?"

"Would the Prince," replied Tilottama, laughing, "ever forgive me if I forget Aesha?"

"I am not pleased with these words of yours," said Aesha seriously. "You must never mention me to the Prince; promise this."

Aesha understood that the circumstance that her future happiness had been utterly blighted for Jagat Singha, smote him severely; and the least mention of her to him would awaken his grief.

Tilottama promised to do so. Aesha went on,

"But don't forget me either. Pray, do not reject the things which I give you for memory."