were the meetings between the two Shethánis,[1] who went to the holy Máháráj together, and often examined each other's heads to detect parasites (an unfailing sign of bosom friendship). One afternoon, as Bái Devkore was looking into Bái Shámkore's locks, she pinched the latter's cheek and chid her for not having acquainted her "own sister" with an interesting secret she had only then discovered by accident.
"Sister," said Devkore, "thy heart is not clear like mine. Did I not tell thee, without asking, that I was six months gone? How far art thou?"
Then replied the modest Shámkore, "Oh, sister Devkore, I was so ashamed you would go on joking and teasing. You have done it so often—you have four already. I am five months gone, and it will be a boy, I know."
"I'll have a girl," replied the impetuous Shámkore. "What say you to a match, sister mine?"
"Oh, sister," replied the younger, "it will be an honour to our family; I'll ask my This (husband)."
- ↑ Wealthy matrons.
