Shyama’s mother had not lost any of her virtues. Her nature had become even more serious. She seemed withdrawn. Who knows what thoughts stirred within her? She did not speak of them. Whatever came to her mind, she would utter aloud. She was losing her sense of illusion. Now, she saw people, animals, and trees with a new clarity. She felt a deep affection for all of them. She loved them all with a pure heart.

She would see the lemon tree and ask for water to be poured at its roots. If it was not done, she would feel a pang of regret for the tree. She would ask for water to be given to the new jackfruit sapling. Even when she was unwell, she would insist that water be given to the trees. She cared for them all. The trees she had planted were thriving. She had spent many an hour beneath their branches.

It was the time of dusk. Purushottam was sitting alone. Everyone else was gathered around her. No one wanted to look away; all eyes were fixed on her. The shadow of death had fallen over everyone. Now, it seemed she would not see another day.

She remembered Shyama. She said, “Where is that Shyam? Sitting by the post. Call him here. Has he not yet outgrown the stubbornness of childhood? Always insisting on his own way with his mother! Enough now, enough. Come to me, my son.”

Whenever she began to say something like this, aunt would say, “Akka—”

She was shivering with fever and her bones ached with pain. She would say, “Don’t get angry if they haven’t given the exact amount of oil today. Tell them not to be upset.” After scolding Shyam, she would ask someone to place their cool hand on his forehead. Everyone looked worried. Tears welled up in their eyes. No one could bear to see her like this.

“Are they taking away the land at Pergaon? Let them. Our lap is our true honor. Is there any vermilion left on this widow’s forehead? Which moneylender can steal a widow’s honor? Honor does not reside in gold or silver. It does not live in houses or fields. Our feet, our lap, our love — that is true honor. Let them take what they want!” Saying this, she tried to get up. But everyone held her gently and made her lie down.

Bhau placed the spinning wheel near her lap. She asked for water. Maavshi brought her some water. Maavshi stayed close by, watching over her. After a while, she calmed down and asked, “Is the spinning wheel near my lap?” Bhau replied, “Yes.” She tried to sit up and said she would spin.

Some time passed. Again she spoke, “Have they come to take me away? Chandri, my dear, has come! Let her come in. But why have you all left your studies and come here? Shyam, I am here for you. You are here for me. Don’t