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CHAPTER VI.


The upper story of this mansion had been assigned to Rohini. She lived in semi-seclusion. The servants dwelt in the lower rooms. In that solitary spot scarcely any one came to visit Gobind Lâl, so outer reception rooms were not required. If at times a shopkeeper or any other person came, word was sent to the bâbu upstairs, who would come down and see him below. For this purpose a room on the ground floor had been set apart.

Nishâkar Dâs had appeared at the house door downstairs and had asked, "Who lives here?"

Gobind Lâl had two servants, one named Sonâ, the other Rupo. At the sound of a masculine voice, both men came to the door, and were surprised to see Nishâkar, whom they at once perceived to be a respectable man. He had taken care to go somewhat

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