Jain Journal 1975 10

Author(s): Jain Bhawan Publication
Publisher: Jain Bhawan Publication

Page 48

OCTOBER, 1975
Vardhaman :
It is the same necklace which I threw in the tank.
Yashoda : .
That may be so.
Vardhaman :
Send the lady and the Police Chief to us.
Maid-servant : As you wish.
Vardhaman :
It is a peculiar feature of mammon that the more you spurn it, the more it wants to stick to you.
Yashoda :
Not only my father, but the things given by him, are so much attached to you that they do not want to lose your company even for a moment.
[Enter. Chief of the Police and an humble woman]
Police Chief:
Victory be to the Lord and to my Lady! I was on duty early morning, keeping a watch around the lotus-tank. I saw this lady running away stealthily after her bath. When I apprehended her and searched her clothes, this pearl necklace was recovered from her person. I had once seen this necklace round your Lordship's neck. I could easily guess that your Lordship must have been bathing in the tank, and later forgot to collect the necklace after your bath. This woman had stolen the necklace and was running away with it. I have caught her and present her to you. Here is the necklace. I await your Lordship's orders.
Yashoda :
Yes, this necklace belongs to your Lord.
Vardhaman : Police Chief: Vardhaman :
Yes, it is that very necklace. Then surely, this lady is guilty of theft. Theft! I ask you lady, have you committed theft ? No, my Lord, I am innocent.
Woman :
Yashoda :
Our Chief of the Police recovered this necklace from your person, and still you say you are innocent. You are weeping, but you cannot wash away your guilt by your tears. Who are you? Reveal your identity.