and at the same time to keep at as great a distance from her as possible, for she was a witch, and even a look at her face was dangerous. He was also told to blindfold himself at the time of marriage, or at any other time that she might be within the range of his vision. Poor Ruplal was deceived by the wicked woman, and followed her advice, both at the time of his marriage and after he had brought his bride home. He placed a thick covering over his eyes, which he did not remove while in the bridal chamber. He left it the next morning, and never afterwards sought the company of his wife, who pined away neglected. The old merchant died, and it was attributed by Ruplal, at the suggestion of the malini, to his wife's evil influence as a witch. A hut was built for the poor girl, and there she lived, the wreck of her former self.
Ruplal after his father's death had to attend to all his business, within and without, and so he could no longer keep the shade over his eyes. One day when it was removed, the wily malini set her niece before him, and he was so taken with her beauty that he at once asked for her hand. His suit was granted and the marriage fixed. But the event was not permitted by heaven to take place. Whatever arrangements the malini made in anticipation ended in failure. The priests whom she consulted died, the ladies whom she invited lost their husbands and sons, and the articles bought were consumed of themselves. The malini's garden became a wilderness, and she was in want for her daily bread. On the other hand Kanchanmala, reconciled to her lot, passed her days in works of devotion and in great peace.
Ruplal's business failed, and he was compelled to think of a voyage to foreign countries, whence he might bring such goods as would find a profitable sale in his own country. Preparations were duly made, and the day of starting was announced. The night before, Kanchan managed to enter his bedroom to bid him farewell, but he drove her out. The morning dawned, and he got into one of the boats ready for the voyage. The sails were unfurled, and the rowers plied at
