Page:Mashi and Other Stories.djvu/31

Rh "From Sitarampur."

"When did she go?"

"Three days ago."

For a moment Jotin felt numb all over, and his head began to swim. He slipped down from the pillows, on which he was reclining, and kicked off the woollen shawl that was over his feet.

When Mashi came back after a long time, Jotin did not mention Mani's name, and Mashi thought he had forgotten all about her.

Suddenly Jotin cried out: "Mashi, did I tell you about the dream I had the other night?"

"Which dream?"

"That in which Mani was pushing the door, and the door wouldn't open more than an inch. She stood outside unable to enter. Now I know that Mani has to stand outside my door till the last."

Mashi kept silent. She realized that the heaven she had been building for Jotin out of falsehood had toppled down at last. If sorrow comes, it is best to acknowledge it.—When God strikes, we cannot avoid the blow.

"Mashi, the love I have got from you will last