CHAPTER XVI.
IN PRESENCE OF SAILESHWARA.
On entering the temple, Bimala sat down to rest a little. She then bowed down her head to Saileshwara and next bowed to the Prince. For some time, both remained silent, not knowing how to express their minds, each to the other. Both of them were confused. How to introduce the conversation!
Bimala, who was a consummate adept in the peace and war relative to such matters, said with a smile,
"Through the grace of Saileshwara, Prince, I have found you here; I was frightened to come across the plain at night;—now I revive courage in seeing you, Sir."
"All's well with you?" asked the Prince.
The object of Bimala was first to ascertain whether the Prince was really attached to Tilottama—and then to speak of other matters. She accordingly said,
"Yes, Sir, it is for the good of us that I have come to worship Saileshwara. Now I understand that the god is quite satisfied with your worship alone—and will not accept mine. I shall therefore return with your permission."
Prince. "Very well; but you shouldn't go alone; I must convey you home."
Bimala saw that the Prince had not devoted all his time to the exercise of his arms.
"And why shouldn't I go alone, I pray?" asked she.
