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 Too astute to reveal to Sirish or to Saibalini the object he had in view, Gokul Das yet threw out dark hints which filled them with new ambitions. He narrated to Sirish the deeds of his remote ancestors who might to-day have ruled Debipur if Nobo Kumar's ancestors had not forcibly set them aside; and he recounted the adventures of disinherited youths who had restored the fortunes of their Houses by happy marriages. Not a word against his master escaped Gokul Das's lips, but Nobo Kumar was growing an old man without any heir; his hard struggles and hard life had told on his mind and his health; and the day was not far when some worthy scion would be called by destiny to fill his place. God grant it, urged Gokul Das, that some noble youth of Debipur, jealous of the traditions of the House, and capable of defending its honour, were chosen to preside over it and to maintain its ancient dignity. The words sank into the heart of the silent youth, and Sirish felt himself stronger and worthier for that place which the hand of destiny seemed to have designed for him. A new aspiration filled his mind, and a new light shone on his face, when he occasionally came to visit the beauteous Hemlata in her rooms.

On Saibalini also the frequent but obscure hints of Gokul Das had their effect. Sisters are the helpmates of brothers; women are often the architects of the fortunes of their Houses. There was no nobler youth in the countryside than Sirish; the impulsive and wayward Noren was but a child beside that manlike, determined youth. Saibalini could help her brother as a sister alone could do—she could save