154
THE POISON TREE
No, Nagendra, your dying would not save Surja Mukhi; but it would be well for you to die.
After a time Surja Mukhi sat up; again clasping her husband's feet, she said: "Grant me one boon."
"What is it?"
"Remain one month longer at home. If in that time we do not find Kunda Nandini, then go; I will not keep you."
Nagendra went out without reply. Mentally he consented to remain for a month; Surja Mukhi understood that. She stood looking after his departing figure, thinking within herself: "My darling, I would give my life to extract the thorns from your feet. You would leave your home on account of this wretched Surja Mukhi. Are you or I the greater?"
