Page:Nil Durpan.djvu/122

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insane. She called that elder Halder "My infant child," and chastised the young Halder's wife, calling her an European's wife. That young woman is weeping severely. Again, she is calling you musicians.

Sadhu.   So great a misfortune has now come to pass!

Physician.   (Sitting near Nobin) It is very probable and also according to the Nidana[1] that while she is not taking food for the death of her husband, and while she has seen this miserable condition of her dearest son, she should become thus. It is necessary to see her pulse once. Madam, let me observe thy pulse once. (Stretches out his hand towards her).

Sabitri.   Thou vile man must be a creature of the Factory, else why dost thou want to take hold of the hand of the woman of a good family? (Rising up) Nurse, keep your eyes upon the child; I go to take a little water. I shall give you a silk shari.

(Exit Sabitri

Physician.   Ah, the light of understanding will not brighten again. I will send the Hima Sagara Toila (a medicinal oil) which is now necessary for her. (Observing the pulse of Nobin) His pulse is only very weak, but I do not find any other bad symptom. The doctors are ignorant in other matters, but in anatomical operations they are very expert. The expense will be heavy, but it is of urgent necessity to call one in.

Sadhu.   A letter has been sent to the young Babu to come along with a doctor.

Physician.   That is very good.

Enter Four Relatives

First.   We never even dreamt that such an accident would come to pass. At noon-day, some were eating, some bathing, and some were going to lie down in their beds after dinner. I heard of it now.

  1. Nidana: a treatise on the science of medicine.

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