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Rh true. At the name Burdwan in the midst of other topics Jehangir enquired what Meherunnisha said about him during her two day's stay with her. Luthfunnisha with an open mind gave him a true story of Meherunnisha's affection for him. Then the Emperor dropped into a sort of blissful forgetfulness and a blank pause ensued. One or two large drops of tears rolled down from his big eyes.

"Your Majesty" broke in Luthfunnisha "the slave has carried you the happy tidings. Why no orders have issued till now for her reward?"

The Badshah smiled and joined "Dearest, your ambition is boundless."

"Your Majesty, why this charge is laid at this slave's door?"

"The Delhi Emperor has placed his body and soul at your feet and still you press for further reward!"

"Women have many desires" added Luthfunnisha laughingly.

"What more desire you have?"

"Let the royal orders be forthcoming first that the slave's prayer shall be granted."

"Provided the royal duty is not hampered."

"The Delhi Lord's work can never suffer on the score of a single poor soul."

"Then I agree. Now let me hear the proposition."

"I have a mind to marry."

Jehangir burst into a salvo of laughter.

"This is a novel sort of desire" said he. "Has the negotiation ended in a compact anywhere?"