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 take any other person. So, you shall have to accompany me."

"Where are you going?"—enquired Ashmani.

"Ashmani," said Bimala, "you were not in the habit of enquiring so much in days of old."

Ashmani was a little abashed.

"Then wait a bit," replied she. "I'll go and do some household duties, and then come back."

"One word more," said Bimala. "Suppose that to-day you meet with some one of old days, will he be able to recognise you?"

"How's that?" asked Ashmani in surprise.

"Suppose" continued Bimala, "that you meet with Prince Jagat Singha, eh?"

Ashmani remained silent for a long while, and then said in an agitated voice,

"Shall I live to see such a day!"

"You may," said Bimala.

"The Prince will certainly recognise me."

"Then you shall not go"—said Bimala. "But then, whom shall I take? I can't go alone."

"How do I long to see the Prince!" Said Ashmani.

"Suppress your desire as best you can"—returned Bimala. "But what am I to do now?"

Bimala began to think. All of a sudden, Ashmani began to laugh in her sleeve.

"Ill betide thee!" said Bimala. "Why are you laughing without rhyme or reason?"

"A thought has struck me," answered Ashmani. "What if my darling Diggaja goes with you?"