He was examining the shutters and fastenings of the entrance door when Rupo Khânsâmâ came up to him and said, "Do you wish to smoke, sir?"
Nish. "As the master does not offer it, how can I take it from the servants?"
Rupo. "No, I suppose not, but I should like a word with you in secret; please come to a place where we may be in privacy." Thus saying, Rupo led the way to his own private room, and Nishâkar followed without making any objection. Offering a seat, Rupo gave to Nishâkar Rohini's message.
Nishâkar had stretched forth his hand and reached the moon in the sky. He had found a means to accomplish his design very easily. He said, "Your master has driven me out; how can I remain hidden in his house?"
"He will know nothing of it, I assure you, sir; he never comes into this room."
"Well, suppose he doesn't; still, when your mistress comes down he may wonder where she has gone. If he does, and follows her, and by some chance finds your mistress with me, then what position shall I be in? eh?"
Rupo remained silent. Nishâkar resumed,
