This is my last request; I will not ask for a like favor again."
The maid-servant did so. Osman said, "There's danger to both of us in my going there. Tell her to see me in my lodgings."
"How can I go?" asked Bimala.
"He has said he would provide for that," returned the menial.
At night-fall one of Aesha's maid-servants came in and after talking something with the eunuchs, who guarded the interior, took Bimala to Osman.
"What more do yon require of me, pray?" asked Osman.
"A trifle," said Bimala. "Is the Rajput Prince, Jagat Singha, alive?"
Os. "Yes, he is."
Bi. "Is he a captive?"
Os. "He is a captive but not in prison now. He is bed-ridden because of his wounds."
"Every one connected with these wretched women is destined to fare ill!" exclaimed she. "The hand of God is in all this. Should he recover, pray, do you, Sir, give him this letter. At present let it remain with you. This is my request."
Osman returned the note and said, "Excuse me; I may not do this. In whatever case the Prince may be, he is to be considered a captive now. It is improper to take any letter to such a person without first reading its contents; moreover this is against the orders of my master."
"Believe me, Sir," replied Bimala "it contains nothing which you can take exception to; you may without scruple
