Page:Indira and Other Stories.pdf/144

 "My prince, I find that you are not omniscient. I returned that necklace."

"Not so, you sold it to me. Look, here it is."

So saying, the raja took the necklace from the casket and showed it to her. She recognised it at once, and was completely non-plussed. She said, however,

"My prince, did I myself bring this necklace to you for sale?"

"No, but your servant or messenger Amala brought it to me. Shall I send for her?"

Hiranmayi was vexed, but could not refrain from smiling at a happy thought that now occurred to her. Hastily she answered,

"My prince, I admit my guilt. There is no need to send for Amala. I admit that I sold you the necklace!"

This time it was the raja's turn to be astonished. He said,

"Woman's ways are past comprehension. How did you, a married woman, come to accept such a gift from Purandar?"