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THE WRECK

frightened deer the thoughts that were about to find utterance; so to-day Annada Babu had resisted the call of the teapot

Hemnalini did not believe that her father seriously meant to cure himself of sleeplessness by abstaining from his usual indulgence. "Come along, dad, you must have your tea," she cried, and, forgetting his dread of insomnia, Annada Babu hurried off with her.

When he entered the room he found to his dismay Akshay already installed there; for the time being Hem was her old self again but the sight of Akshay would be a set-back; however, it was too late to rem- edy the situation for Hemnalini had already followed him into the room. Akshay rose at once.

"Well, Jogen, I had better be off now," he said, but to the astonishment of all present Hemnalini only remarked: "What's the matter, Akshay Babu? Are you in such a hurry ? Have a cup of tea first."

Akshay resumed his seat. "I had two cups before you came in. I might be able to manage another brace if you pressed me."

Hemnalini smiled. "It'll be the first time we've had to do any pressing."

"True," said Akshay, "I have enough sense never to refuse a good thing when I'm offered it."

"By the same token, may a good thing never refuse you when you offer yourself ! Could a priest give you a better blessing than that?" said Jogendra.

After a long intermission conversation was again in full swing round Annada Babu's tea-table. Henma- lini's laughter had never been boisterous but to-day it rose from time to time above the talk. She had a dig at her father. "Akshay Babu has forgotten him- self, dad. He's perfectly well though he hasn't taken any of your pills for days. If they're any use at all he would have a headache at least."

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