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 that your insane act in running your boat against Nobo Kumar's—which a child of ten would not have done—was due to the excitement of the moment. Norendra Nath Roy! I hold you guiltless of the gravest charge against you, and you are free."

The young prisoner, pale and bloodless and gaunt, had expected the worst from the machinations of his enemies, and the generous verdict of the Ruler of Bengal came upon him as a surprise and touched his heart. His lips trembled but shaped no words, only two big drops trickled down from his eyes and spoke his gratitude.

"The affairs of your estate require more serious consideration. There have been disturbances, and the Imperial revenue, due twelve months ago, remains unpaid. You are not yet of age, and Nobo Kumar's services are required in his own estate. It is, therefore, the will of His Majesty the Emperor that the arrangements made by Raja Todar Mull should now be altered. Nobo Kumar shall forthwith be restored to his ancestral estate of Debipur, and an Imperial Agent, whom I have appointed to-day, shall manage your estate until you come of age and until all the arrear revenues are paid."

This too was satisfactory to Noren. His estate would be released from the iron grasp of Nobo Kumar. An Imperial Agent would keep his estate in order until he was of age to step into his grandfather's place. In the meantime he would be free to prepare himself for the grave duties of his life.

"For you, rash young man," continued the Raja, "I think it unwise to stay longer at Birnagar. Your