Bhairavi.] One of the musical tunes which denotes separation.
chandeliers.] The glass ornamental hangings on which candles were lighted in great houses at weddings.
better-omened.] It was not considered a good omen, or good fortune, to meet a criminal on a wedding day.
dispersed.] Used up.
Parbati.] Another allusion to the Goddess Durga and her home in the Himalayas.
apparition.] This word comes from the same root as the word to “ appear.” It means a sudden or strange sight. It often means a ghost. Mini had so changed that when she appeared in her wedding dress she startled him, as if he had seen a ghost.
make friends with her anew.] His own daughter would not know him at first.
Saw before him the barren mountains.] His memory was so strong that it made him forget the crowded Calcutta street and think of his home in the mountains.
II.— THE HOME-COMING
every one seconded the proposal.] All were so eagerly in favour that they wanted to speak at once in support of it.
regal dignity.] His position as a king of the other boys.
fertile brain.] Full of inventions and plans.
manoeuvre.] A French word meaning a plan of battle.
point of honour.] He would feel himself disgraced if he gave way.
Mother Earth.] Earth is here pictured as a person. There is a well-known story of a giant who gained fresh power every time his body touched the earth, which was his Mother.
Furies.] These were supposed to be certain demons, who pursued guilty men with loud cries.
