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 She thereupon called her maid, and gave her orders. The woman brought in an ivory box, containing jewels. Aesha sent her away, and began with her own hands to deck Tilottama.

Although the daughter of a wealthy land-holder, Tilottama was struck with the rare workmaship of the various ornaments, as also with the brilliant lustre of their gems. With her own load of ornaments which had been given to her by her father, Aesha had caused these rare jewels to be prepared for Tilottama. The latter spoke in admiration of the jewels.

"Sister," said Aesha, "do not admire these. What tinsel are they in comparison with the gem with which you have adorned your bosom this day!" Here she strove hard to check her tears. Tilottama knew nothing.

When the adorning was over, Aesha took hold of both hands of Tilottama, and fixed her eyes on Tilottama's face. "Me thinks"—thought she, "my love will never be otherwise than happy with the possession of this open, lovely countenance. When Heaven has willed it so, my only prayer to Him is, may the Prince be ever happy with this girl!"

"Tilottama!" said she, "fare-well. Your husband may be engaged;—no use of losing any more time in taking his leave. May God grant you long life. Wear these jewels. And my—your best jewel wear on your heart."

Her utterance became almost choked in saying 'your best jewel.' Tilottama saw that Aesha's eye-lids were trembling with the weight of tears.

Tilottama melted in sympathy, and said,

"Why are you weeping? Eh?"

Anon the flood gates were opened.