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Rh The Deputy Magistrate suddenly recollected that he had acted very unwisely in saying all this to Subodh Babu. What if his friend should go to the Collector and report the conversation? He would get into trouble with the authorities for such disloyal sentiments. Consequently he hastened to reply—"Oh yes, certainly—you must go. As His Honour has condescended to ask you personally, you ought to go by all means. Excuse me a moment, I will get you the suit."

The private interview was over. The display of fire-works in the evening was also accomplished. At nine o'clock, Subodh covering his face up carefully with a shawl, called on Jagat Babu.

Jagat welcomed him saying—"Bravo Subodh, Bravo! Things are turning out exactly as you said. Did you speak to the L. G. about a Government pleadership?"

"Oh no, that would have spoilt everything. He would at once have suspected that my loyalty was merely make-believe. Every thing in good time, my boy."

"What is your next step then?"

"Have you got telegram forms?"

"Yes."

"Let me have some, please."

Jagat Babu did as he was requested.