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DURGESA NANDINI.

had something to say. Aesha understood it and said to the attendant,

"Do you take the lady to my bed-chamber; and then come back to take me."

The woman proceeded with Tilottama.

"Farewell, for ever!" thought Jagat Singha within himself, with a profound sigh. So long as Tilottama was visible, he fixed his gaze on her.

"Farewell, for ever!" also thought Tilottama. So long as Jagat Singha could be seen, she did not turn; when she turned, the Prince was no longer visible.



CHAPTER XV.

THE DECLARATION.


When Tilottama and the maid-servant left the room, Aesha came forward and sat down on the bed. There being no other seat, Jagat Singha stood by.

Aesha pulled out a rose from her braid, and, beginning to tear the leaves, said,

"Prince, you look as if you had something to speak to me. If I can be of the least service to you, Sir, pray, do not scruple to speak out your mind. I shall be really delighted to serve you."

"Princess," said he "nothing avails me now. No, Your Highness, it was not for that reason that I longed for an interview with you. What I would say is this. Judging from what I have