Jain Journal 1975 10

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

Page 51

OCTOBER, 1975
it out that the necklace belonged to the royal family. Lest I should sin before I die, I was myself coming to deliver this necklace in the Palace. But I was apprehended in the way by the Police. I was hesitating to enter the Palace and I myself made a request to the Chief of the Police to have the necklace sent to the Palace. But instead of conceding to my request, the Chief has arrested me on a charge of theft.
Police Chief : A culprit seldom spoke the truth. She made that request
to me as an escape ; and that too after she was apprehended.
Vardhaman :
A prayer for her redemption ! -I don't think she even understands the difference between ‘escape', 'redemption' and 'salvation'.
Woman :
I do not anything, my Lord. You may punish me as you like. But it is my good fortune that through the medium of this necklace, I have been able to see with my own eyes my King and my Queen, which it was not otherwise possible.
Vardhaman :
You are a wise woman. (To the Police Chief ] Visit this lady's house ; and if what she says is true, proper arrangement should be made for the rearing up of her children. They shall be brought up at State expense. Give them shelter in the destitute home.
Police Chief:
That shall be done, my Lord !
Woman :
(Falls at the feet of Vardhaman] My Lord, thou art great, thou art merciful. You are just, you are the protector of your subjects, you know the suffering of the poor. May you be our King in this birth and in the births hereafter, and we be your loyal subjects always.
Yashoda :
And you Chief of the Police, listen to me. This necklace has already been abandoned by the King. Distribute its gems among families who are suffering from abject poverty. Let a few gems go to this poor lady also.
Police Chief: As you wish, my Lady.