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 body she decked with golden and jewelled ornaments; but on second thought, she put off some of them. She next wore the curiously embroidered clothes and the coral-studded slippers; and about her well-arranged hair wound the precious pearl chain given to her by the Prince.

When the dressing was over, Bimala went to Tilottama'a chamber. On seeing her dress, Tilottama was surprised.

"What's the matter, Bimala?" she asked with a laugh. "Why in this dress?"

"That's no concern of yours," Bimala said.

Tilottama. "In sober truth, say;—where are you going?"

Bimala. "And who, my dear, has told you that I'm going out at all?"

Tilottama was abashed. Perceiving her confusion, Bimala said, kindly smiling,

"I'm going far."

Tilottama's countenance expanded with joy, like a full-blown lotus.

"Pray, where are you going?" she asked Bimala in a soft tone.

"Better guess."

Tilottama fixed her eyes on her face.

"Listen, then," said Bimala, and taking hold of Tilottama's hand, she drew her to the window.

"I'm going to the temple of Saileshwara; there to meet with a certain Prince."

Tilottama's frame was convulsed with some powerful emotion; she made no reply.

Bimala went on,