________________
77
from their rooms? You have devised this new conspiracy to defame them."
Kanakmala began to argue out: 'Your Honour! First thing is is that this necklace remained in the possession of Malaya. She used to put it on. So it was difficult for anybody to steal it. Secondly, had I stolen it she would have at least informed you that it is stolen. It is like a guilty conscience of a thief. If Malaya had not given it to her lover, the matter would be clear by inquiring about her. You inquire of the mother and the daughter. You will then be sure of the truth of my story from their replies.'
The king liked this clever scheme of Kanakmala. He called Champakmala and. asked her, about the necklace. She replied that it is with Malaya. The king showed that necklace to Champakmala. The elder queen also was surprised. The king bid.
