It has already been mentioned that Hemchandra, following Manorama, was coming in search of the Yavana from Bapiti. When the house was still some distance away, Manorama said to Hemchandra, “Do you see that mansion ahead?”

Hem. I see it.

Mano. The Yavana has entered there.

Hem. Why?

Without answering this question, Manorama said, “You stay here, behind this tree. The Yavana must pass this way.”

Hem. Where will you go?

Mano. I too shall enter that house.

Hemchandra agreed. He was somewhat astonished by Manorama’s conduct. Following her advice, he concealed himself in the shadow of a tree by the roadside. Manorama, taking a secret path, slipped unnoticed into the house.

At this time, Shantashil was coming to Pashupati’s house. He saw a man hiding behind the trees. Shantashil, suspicious— He went beneath that tree. Seeing Hemchandra there, the thief at first asked suspiciously, “Who are you? What are you doing here?” But then, noticing Hemchandra’s warrior’s attire adorned with precious ornaments, he immediately said, “Who are you, sir?”

Hemchandra replied, “Whoever I may be, what of it?”

Shantashil: “What are you doing here?”

Hemchandra: “I am searching for the Yavanas here.”

Shantashil, startled, asked, “Where are the Yavanas?”

Hemchandra: “They have entered this house.”

Shantashil, in a voice like one frightened, said, “Why in this house?”

Hemchandra: “That I do not know.”

Shantashil: “Whose house is this?”

Hemchandra: “That too I do not know.”

Shantashil: “Then how did you know that the Yavanas have entered this house?”

Hemchandra: “What would you gain by hearing that?”

Shantashil: “This house is mine. If a Yavana has entered it, then surely he has done so with some evil intent. I see you are a warrior and an enemy of the Yavanas. If you wish, come with me—together we shall catch the thief.”

Hemchandra agreed and went with Shantashil. Shantashil led Hemchandra through the main gate into Pashupati’s house, and entering a chamber, said, “All my gold and jewels are kept in this room. Please remain here and guard them. Meanwhile, I will search and see where the Yavana is hiding.”

Saying this, Shantashil left the chamber, and before Hemchandra could reply, he locked the door from outside. Hemchandra, having fallen into the trap, was left imprisoned.