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184 Mâdhabi Nâth's intention had been to give the postmaster something before he left. But the bâbu's manner put his back up; he said: "My good sir, I see you are not of this part of the country. Do you know who I am?"

Shaking his head, the postmaster replied, "No, but what does it signify who you are? Do you think we give post-office information to any sort of person? Who are you at all?"

"I am named Mâdhabi Nâth Sarkar. I dwell at Râjgrâm. Do you happen to remember how many lâthiyâls I employ?"

The post bâbu was frightened. He had heard of Mâdhabi Bâbu's name, and of how he lorded it over all with a strong hand. The post bâbu remained silent.

Mâdhabi Nâth resumed: "Mind you give me truthful answers to whatever I ask you. Don't try to deceive me, for if you do, I will give you nothing, not a copper. But if you either refuse to speak, or speak falsely, I will burn your house and plunder the post-office, and I will produce evidence in the Courts to prove that you did it yourself to get hold of the Government money. Now will you speak?"