Page:The Slave Girl of Agra.djvu/67

 the ancient House of Debipur from extinction as women have done, now and again, in the annals of her country.

Hints like these were more than enough for Saibalini. She loved Sirish with an elder sister's love, and her woman's soul, inspired by ulterior ambitions, was bent on uniting him with Hemlata. Long evenings she spent with Hemlata by the lake or the garden temple, and the stories of her ancestors, the tales of Debipur, the spotless and noble character of her brother, were the theme of her endless talk. Hemlata listened to them with increasing interest, and the image of the noble and dignified Sirish as the future Lord of Debipur often rose in her mind. Gokul Das was not slow to acquaint himself of what passed in the Palace from day to day, and he felt the game was in his hands.

The game was played as on a chess-board. The king is a powerless piece and has to be protected and guarded. The queen is powerful and masterful, and dominates the board. But the humbler pieces too have their value.

One evening when Hemlata and Saibalini were sitting by the lake in the garden, Noren came in usual abrupt manner. Saibalini rose and accosted the youth, and Hemlata was bashful.

There was a painful silence. Saibalini broke it with her usual gentle tact.

"I am happy, brother Noren, to hear from rumours that you will soon be restored to your estate. You are the idol of the people, live to be their friend and protector as your grandfather lived of yore."

"Nay, sister Saibalini, rumours speak idly. I