When Girijaya returned to Patni’s house, she had firmly resolved not to speak of Hemchandra’s newfound affection in Mrinalini’s presence. Mrinalini, awaiting her arrival, was restless like a bird caged in anticipation; the moment she saw Girijaya, she said, “Tell me, Girijaya, what did you see? How is Hemchandra?”

Girijaya replied, “He is well.”

Mrinalini: Why, why do you say it like that? Your words do not give me hope. Why not? She seemed to speak with sorrow; why?

Gi: What is it?

Mr: Girija, do not deceive me; is Hemchandra not well? If that is so, tell me plainly. Certainty is better than doubt.

Girija now replied with a smile, “Why are you needlessly anxious? I assure you, he is suffering from nothing at all. He is up and about.”

Mrinalini, after a moment’s thought, asked, “Did you overhear any conversation between him and Manoroma?”

Gi: I did.

Mr: What did you hear?

Girija then recounted what Hemchandra had said, but she concealed two things: that Manoroma had wandered at night with Hemchandra, and that they had whispered secretly together. Mrinalini inquired, “Did you meet Hemchandra yourself?”

Girija hesitated a little and said, “I did!”

Mr: What did he say?

Gi: He asked about you.

Mr: What did you tell him?

Gi: I said you were well.

Mr: Did you tell him that I have come here?

Gi: No.

Mr: Girija, you are hesitating in your answers, your face is pale. You cannot look me in the eye. I am certain you are hiding some ill news from me. I cannot believe your words. Whatever fate may hold, I will go myself to see Hemchandra. Come, go with me. Come, otherwise I shall go alone.

Saying this, Mrinalini veiled her face and swiftly proceeded along the royal road.

Girijaya hurried after her. After a short distance, she caught Mrinalini’s hand and said, “Mistress, return; I shall reveal what I have concealed.”

Mrinalini returned home with Girijaya. Then Girijaya disclosed in detail all that she had kept secret.

Girijaya had deceived Hemchandra; but she could not deceive Mrinalini.