Page:Indira and Other Stories.pdf/135

 Of course he does not venture to suggest that you should take up your abode in his house. But he has bought your father's old home from his creditors, and wishes to make you a present of it. He begs as a favour to him to accept your old home from him as a gift."

Of all the consequences of poverty, the most painful to Hiranmayi's mind was her banishment from the home of her childhood. The thought was cruel that she might not end her days in the dear home where she had played as a child, where her father and mother had spent so many happy years, where she had seen them die. The mere mention of the old home brought tears to her eyes.

She thanked and blessed the servant girl and said, "I know I ought not to accept this gift. But I cannot restrain the desire that possesses me. May all happiness and good fortune attend your master!"

The girl made her obeisance and departed. Amala was present during this interview. Hiranmayi said to her, "It will be impossible