Page:Stories of Bengalee life - Prabhat Kumar Mukerji.pdf/31

Rh have reason to apprehend that school-boys would come at night and tear up the decorations."

"Are you the gentleman who applied to-day for permission to display fire-works?"

"Yes, Sir."

The D. S. P. turned to the Collector and said—"It was about this gentleman that I was speaking."

The Collector looked at Subodh with a benignant smile, saying—"Are you a pleader?"

"Yes, Sir."

"That's good. I am glad to see you are so loyal. Would you like to attend His Honour's durbar tomorrow?"

"Yes, Sir—that would be a great privilege."

"All right. I will give you an invitation card. Your name, please?"

Subodh gave his name. The Collector took a blank card, filled it in himself and gave it to Subodh. The Police Superintendent said—"Never mind, Babu. Your decorations shall be safe. I will order four constables to mount guard in front of your house to-night."

Subodh saluted both the officers in a very deferential manner and took his departure.

The Lieutenant Governor arrived the next day at the appointed hour. Subodh Babu took his stand near his gate, in full dress, shamla and