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Srikanta wanted, and I could not imagine a better use for the money than its being a help to Indra. But far from appearing pleased, Indra looked more embarrassed than ever. After a moment's silence he said, 'I shall not be able to return your money, Srikanta.'

'I shall not want it back,' I said, looking him proudly in the face.

He again sat silent for a minute or two, his head bent low; then he said slowly, 'I don't want it for myself. Somebody wants money, you know. They are very poor; they don't get enough to eat. Will you go there with me?'

All at once the thought of that night of adventure came to my mind. 'You mean those to whom you wanted to give money on that night?'

'Yes,' said Indra, nodding absent-mindedly. 'It isn't as if I can't get money for them, but Didi won't accept anything from me. You will have to go, Srikanta; otherwise she won't take the money. She will think I have stolen it from my mother's safe. Will you go, Srikanta?'

'Is she your real sister?'

Indra smiled and said, 'No, but I call her sister. You will go there?' Seeing me silent, he added, 'There's nothing to be afraid of if we go by day, you know. To-morrow is Sunday; after your dinner you wait for me here, and I will take you and bring you back in no time. Won't you go?' And so wistfully did he look