________________
Pavananjay's Return
371
Her mind also was filled with grief. Of course, Anjana used to conceal her sorrow from others very carefully but how could she conceal her grief from Vasanta Tilaka who was always with her, day and night, like her shadow. So, one day, when Anjana was alone Vasanta Tilaka asked her that question,
"Vasanta! Why should I be sad here? What cause is there for any agitation here ?"
“You know it best." "Shall I mention a point ?” “Why should you hesitate to speak the truth to me ?"
"I am not hesitating to say it. That is not the reason but why should I cause grief to you also by speaking of a past unhappy event. I do not think it is proper to speak of it to you, I do not like to mention it. That is the reason for my not speaking of it. What matter can there be which I should conceal from my dearest friend ?"
"Look here friend! I have been with you through thick and thin, sharing your joys and sorrows. If you are sad how can I be cheerful ?"
“Vasanta! Here, we have peace and happiness. But I am worried because my mother-in-law has stained my honour by making a false accusation against me. Until it is disproved and until my innocence is established how can I be happy and peaceful ?"
"But what is the use of weeping over it thus, day and night? Have you forgotten the words of the enlightened muni. The days of our sorrow have ended; and the sun of our happiness has risen. If Pavananjay comes back the stain upon your character will be removed naturally."
“What you say is true. Pavananjay may return."
“Then, Ketumati will be in hot water. Here, there may be delay but not the darkness of disappointment. Do you understand ?" said Vasanta forecasting the future.
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org