Jagan was a Vendor of Sweets in Malgudi town. He was honest truthful, religious and good-natured. He was a Gandhian, a preacher of the Gita and righteously led his life. He believed in quality and quantity. That is why his products had a great demand in the city and he was prosperous.

Jagan's wife Ambica had died several years ago when his son Mali was a small boy. Since that time, Jagan had to look after the shop and the small child. He cooked food for Mali, sent him to school and went to his shop. He returned home early at night and took care of the motherless child.

Time passed. Mali read in a college. Jagan was happy that his son would be an officer soon. He loved Mali very much and fulfilled all his demands. But one day Mali told him that he would not go to college. He would go to America to take training to write stories by a machine. Hearing the proposal, Jagan looked alarmed. He tried to convince Mali that stories could not be written by a machine. The Ramayan and Mahabharat were not written by a machine. It needs creativity and God's bliss. But Mali could not be convinced and went to America.

Jagan looked shocked because of Mali's attitude. He, however, reconciled with him. He sent money regularly. After few years Mali returned to Malgudi town. With him, there was an American lady, Grace whom he identified as his wife. Jagan had no other way except to accept the beef-eating girl. His friends, relatives, sister, boycotted him for allowing a foreign girl into his house. But Jagan paid no heed to it because he wanted to keep Mali happy.

Mali's story writing machine came. He told Jagan to arrange 50,000/- dollars for him to start a business to produce stories. Grace too pleaded with him to arrange the money. Jagan looked cross. He knew, such a high investment for such an absurd business would not come back. He remained silent, avoided Malis company. 

Grace at first tried to motivate Jagan through her artificial behaviour. When Jagan, showed no sign to offer money. She maintained a distance from her. She urged Mali to start a business, otherwise, she would go back to America. Mali wanted to sell the share of his company and to arrange money, but it was in vain. He again said that he should forget the story-producing business and concentrate on his sweets stall. Mali refused straight that he would not be a Vendor of sweets. Thus the confrontation between Mali and Jagan developed.

Mali tried to arrange money by his effort. But it was not easy. He bought a car to grow his personality. He went on pressurising upon Jagan to give his bank account for the business. Jagan got irritated. He ordered his salesmen to sell sweets at 25 paise a kilo which was 5 times less than the production cost. He tried to revenge upon himself, upon Mali in this way.

One day Mali said- father! what did not think about my proposal? If you don't, Grace will go back to America. Jagan looked astonished and said - why to America? She is your wife. Mali said that she was not his wife. They were only living together. Jagan looked dumbfounded. Can a lady live with a boy in the same room for years and say that it is a fiving together relationship? He thought that Mali and Grace had made his house polluted. He would not stay in that house. So he took preparation to flee to a sacred place.

While Jagan was going to the bus stand to flee unnoticed, the cousin, a distantly related brother, whom Jagan trusted most, reached near him and said that Mali was in Jail because he had violated the Prohibition Act by drinking wine and driving a car. Grace had left him. The news did not wonder Jagan, for he had guessed something like this earlier. He gave money to the cousin to release. Mali from Jail. He gave the key to his sweets stall to the cousin and went in search of peace.

Jagan used to sit on an old-fashioned chair under the framed picture of the goddess Laxmi hanging on the wall. He opened the shop first and offered the goddess jasmine flower and incense sticks. The smell of flowers, incense together with sweetmeat caused a sweeter atmosphere in the shop.

Jagan was fifty-five. His chin was covered with whitening bristles. He used to say that shaving daily was a European habit. He put on loose Jibba and dhoti, both are handmade. Every day he spun for an hour. He never possessed more than two sets of clothes and delivered the excess to the local handloom committee in exchange for cash. He had begun this habit twenty years ago when Gandhi visited the town, Gandhi's simplicity, loincloth, Khadi dress impressed Jagan much. He used leather shoes made out of old cattle that died naturally. He said why should a living creature. have its throat cut for the comfort of my feet?

CHAPTER -1

Jagan was a sweetmeat seller. He had employed few people to prepare sweets, to sell them and to collect money from the customers. Jagan had to keep watch over the workers. He often spent his time advising the customers, the passers-by, and especially to his distant related cousin. That fellow was a vagabond and to get some favour, some sweets from Jagan used to visit his shop at four-thirty, nodding at Jagan and entering the kitchen to taste some sweets. He used to pass unnecessary remarks on sugar, market price, government plan and programme. Jagan asked him about the taste of the new sweet variety and he would reply in an exaggerated tone.

Jagan used to sit on an old-fashioned chair under the framed picture of the goddess Laxmi hanging on the wall. He opened the shop first and offered the goddess jasmine flower and incense sticks. The smell of flowers, incense together with sweetmeat caused a sweeter atmosphere in the shop.

Jagan was fifty-five. His chin was covered with whitening bristles. He used to say that shaving daily was a European habit. He put on loose Jibba and dhoti, both are handmade. Every day he spun for an hour. He never possessed more than two sets of clothes and delivered the excess to the local handloom committee in exchange for cash. He had begun this habit twenty years ago when Gandhi visited the town. Gandhi's simplicity, loincloth, Khadi dress impressed Jagan much. He used leather shoes made out of old cattle that died naturally. He said why should a living creature have its throat cut for the comfort of my feet?

A few years ago Jagan was involved in tanning. He was collecting the hide of dead cattle, soaking it in some solution and then sold it to a cobbler who had a shoe shop under a tree in the Albert Mission compound. When his son was small, he did like his work. But as he grew younger he complained violently. His wile complained too and refused to come out until the tanning ended. The presence of the leather at home threatened to blast his domestic life. So he had to hide the skin from his wife's reach. When his wife lay dying, she made him take a vow to give up tanning. He kept her last wish and began the sweetmeat shop.

Jagan's greatest listener was the cousin though how he came to be called so could not be explained. Jagan told him - conquer taste and you will have conquered the self. All our sages have advised us so. He said that he had given up salt and was depending on natural salt. He had discontinued sugar. He used twenty drops of honey in hot water quite adequate.

The cousin said - You have simplified your life completely and made yourself self-dependent. Jagan said - I have given up rice too. I cook little stone-ground wheat and take it with honey and greens. The cousin said - why do you labour then? Why do you ask people to eat your sweets?

Jagan said nothing. His counting hour was approaching. He did not like his cash to be watched. The peak sales were over and the front stall boy would bring the main collection for the day. At this time, Jagan fancied himself like a monarch on a throne surveying his people four cooks, the front stall boy. He had - decorated the chair, which was of a century ago, for Mr Noble, an Englishman, the District Collector who came to their astrology lessons.

Jagan had kept his chair at such a place from where he could survey the whole activity in the kitchen and at the sale counter. He often told in an authoritative voice what's going there? The head cook would say nothing. Jagan would count all the money, ask the workers if anything left over was there. He would advise them to make new items, to use the leftover in other items. He was not prepared to bear the loss. He would ask the workers to close the windows properly, to shut the door. He will Check the lock and would ask the captain to check again. Then with a lot of satisfaction, he returned home.

CHAPTER -2

 Jagan walked quickly on the road. It was half-past seven Many shops were still open. The lights in those shops, people inside them were visible, Jagan went ahead watching shops. people dogs. He came across Natraj's printing press and did not want to go there because he thought, his son would be lonely Julkas, scooters, cars, cycles drove past him. The traffic thinned and disappeared. He came past Kabir lane At the junction of Market Road and Lawley Extension, there was a short parapet over a culvert. A vagrant was waiting there for dinner leaves to arrange his food. The sorry state of Indian beggars, poverty-stricken people made Jagan cross. He thought- The vagrant is a disgrace to the nation. Jagan's head was crowded with many national problems.

Jagan reached Sir Frederick Lawley statue. He felt a thrill because of its grand structure. He anticipated a glimpse of his son, Mali on the other side of the statue. He passed the statue on its north side so that he might not embarrass his son. Then he discovered Mali by the deep yellow of his shirt. His heart leapt with joy. He was very proud of his sons' height, weight and growth. He reached home, his thoughts still hovering about his son.

Jagan entered the house, switched on the light. He took off his dress, came out, looked at the sky and thought deeply over the stars. He had little knowledge about astrology for which he had got a second class badge many years ago. Then he went to the bathroom. It was the same bathroom used by his parents. Jagan's father had lived at first in a thatched hut at the very back of this ground. When he found some money he put up the walls of the bathroom. They fetched water from a well across the road and stored it in drums. His father had expanded the house from the backyard to the front

Jagan had no idea how his father grew richer. When he grew up his house had plenty. His father himself had laboured hard to make the house, to plant coconut trees putting salt at its root Jagan was enjoying his father's work in those days and has remembered his advice now

Jagan gets up from bed at five in the morning, broke a twig from a tree and began brushing his teeth. He opposed the truth brush because he believed that the bristles were made of the hair of the pig. Why should we bite a pig's tails in the morning? He had got this theory from Gandhiji and his father. His father died at ninety without a single tooth loss in his jaw and he never used a toothbrush. Even after the advent of nylon bristles Jagan never changed his view. Her wife hated his health tips and lived her own life. Once she had a headache and she told Jagan to bring aspirin, but Jagan advised him to take margosa flowers. Thus they had a clash over it.

As Mali grew up he needed a house of his own. He got a long hall without a window known as the 'cool room'. He had a few books heaped on the round table and there he was free from the quarrel between his father and mother. He enjoyed privacy there. The day Jagan had a quarrel with his wife over aspirin, he entered Mali's room and asked if he had seen mother's tablet. The boy said that he knew it, but his mother would be angry if he touched it because it was poison. He asked Jagan what poison was. Jagan looked horrified and said- people die when they eat poison. Then the boy showed him where aspirin was. He collected the tablets and said – Don’t touch them, because it is poison. I shall give you very good things indeed.'

CHAPTER-3

One day at the dining table, Mali declared. I can't study any more. Jagan stood aghast. He asked - Has anyone insulted you in the college? Mali said I don't find it interesting. Jagan looked puzzled. Mali had never told in such a strong voice. Now he has grown up. He said- All right. I will go to your college and speak to those people.

Mali looked up angrily. Jagan looked afraid. He was a cowardly father. He spent all his time cooking for his son. It had started when his wife had her first attack of brain fever and had gone to the hospital. When Mali grew up, he once asked - Father, why don't you keep a cook? Jagan said - Do we engage a servant to do the breathing for us? Food is similar. Mali asked - why do you engage cooks in your sweetmeat shop? Jagan said - It is like a factory and they are specialists and technicians. The boy said I don't want to cook for me. We have our college canteen.

In fact, after the death of his wife, it was a problem for Jagan to cook food as per the likings of Mall. While going to bed at night, he used to ask Mall what he would eat the next day After Mall had begun to eat in the college canteen, Jagan's problem was over. Now he was ready to leave college. Where will we eat? Mall said - you say, one need not eat. Why do you worry about my eating? Then he put on his shirt, picked up a bicycle and went out.

Jagan brooded over the issue till evening when his cousin came in the evening. Today Jagan invited him cordially to share his difficulty. But he went straight to eat sweets. As he came out of the kitchen wiping his mouth, Jagan told him about the youth of today. Mali is displaying strange notions. He looked astonished and said it is best to know what the boy is thinking? Jagan said I always hope to see him as a graduate. If I had passed B.A. I could have done so many other things.

The cousin said - Even if you have no B.A. certificate you have achieved a lot in your life. Jagan said - I had to leave the college when Gandhi started a non-co-operation movement. I spent the best of my student career in prison. But today the youth have no such compulsion. Jagan said - you must discuss with Mali what his problem is. He calls you uncle. Tell me tonight what he wants.

. At ten that night the cousin came up, knocked on the door softly. Mali was in his room. So cousin and Jagan came out secretly and sat on the granite platform there. Jagan was anxious to know about Mali. Then the cousin revealed that Mali wanted to be a writer.

Jagan felt aghast "writer! strange!" he uttered. Cousin said I went to meet Mali in his college. He was with a gang of friends. It was a farewell visit. He said to his friends that he wanted to become a writer before his father sent him to America.

Jagan asked-writer! A mere clerk! Cousin replied - No. He wants to become a second Bharati, or Tagore or Shakespeare. Today writers earn a lot. They are famous. Jagan understood the fact. His face beamed. The cousin said, he took the boy to Anand Bhawan. There he said that he hated lessons, syllabus, books. He tore up the pages of his books savagely and told the attendant to set fire to them.

Jagan said - what! Books are goddess Saraswati How dared he set fire to it? Why don't you stop him? Cousm said-He said - let's show gratitude to the great fire that consumes our hurried books

Jagan said-was Shakespeare a BA? The cousin said - Kalidas had never been to college. Jagan said Kaldas was an idiot and became a great writer when goddess Saraswaliblessed him. The cousin said why don't you believe that Wall will be another Kalidas one day?

Jagan looked into Mali's room through a keyhole. He saw Mali. sitting on a stool and brooding over something. He felt disappointed that the boy was not writing. He realised that his too much emphasis on college education was ruining the relationship between him and Mail. Now it was time to give up college education motion and to support Malls fantasies. Jagan knocked on the door. Kalii reacted violently What happened? Why are you bringing down the house? Jagan said-Boy, il like your idea. Let's discuss it now.

Jagan came in and sat in front of Kaill. They stared at each other for a second and sat at the table. Jagan asked - Do you want a good table?

Kali-What for?

Jagan - A writer needs a lot of space for manuscripts. Kali - Who told you about me?

Jagan. These things are known. A writer comes out.

Kali-I does not care about it.

Jagan - Do you want me to buy a white paper? Have you got a good pen? What are you writing now?

Kali- A Novell.

Jagan- Oh, wonderful. Where did you learn to write novels? What story are you writing?

Kali- I can't tell you now.

Jagan - Why?

Kali - It is not like firing sweets in your shop.

Jagan - Are your friend's writers too?

Kali - They are only readers and want degrees. I saw in Ananda Vikatan a competition for novels. They will pay 25,000/ for the best. The book must be sent to them before 30th September.

Jagan - Have you begun to write? What is the story? Kali - Are you examining me?

Jagan had never been harsh to Kali since the death of his mother. He remembered the terrible Friday when doctor Krishna observed her breathing and said a very rare type of brain tumour. Jagan said - Doctor. I think. I have a natural way of curing brain tumours. When I publish my book, you will see it. The doctor attended her for many hours, and at last, left her to God. Kali watched the incidents in his house. He could not understand why his mother was sleeping and what the doctor was saying. After the death of his mother, the boy turned a bit silent, rude.

Jagan said - Kali, I have faith in your talent. I have seen you for the last 20 years. I do not doubt that you will be a great writer one day. You know, I am a writer too. My book is being printed at Natraj's Truth printing. 19

Kali said - It is not easy to get Rs. 25,000/- as a prize. I got the coupon from the magazine of the college library. Jagan looked delighted. The next day, on his way to his Sweet Mart he stopped near known people and told them that his son was going to be a writer. His son was a genius. He told this to the head cook. He appreciated the idea and said - you are a simple man, eating nothing. God will hear your call. Jagan said I have done no wrong coming under the spell of Gandhiji. Now my son is going to be a writer.

The cousin came at the usual hour and heard the story. Jagan told him - Gandhi taught us plain living and high thinking. Cousin said why do you run a trade, make money then? Jagan said - I am doing my duty. In the Gita, Lord Krishna has advised people to do Karma. Mali was trying a new line. It was a good sign. If the new generation does old work, it can't develop properly. He looked happy making his argument.

CHAPTER -4

After that incident, father and son reconciled with each other Jagan were happy that his son was going to be a writer Mali was happy that he had no urge to read then. Others would read his book. In this way, he would do some public service The idea service had once entertained Jagan when Mahatma Gandhi addressed a congregation at Malgudi and said that every man should do some service to his motherland. Jagan left college became a freedom fighter to serve the nation. Everyone should serve mankind in his way Mall would help society by writing novels.

Jagan thought deeply over Mali's novel Would he write on social issues or philosophical? Would he write in English or Tamil? If he writes in Tamil only the home people would know him. If he wrote in English the whole world would know him. He would ask Mali. But he would turn violent. He was a detached child now. The only link between them was the five-rupee currency note that he left on the hall table in the morning. Kali was eating at Ananda Bhawan.

It was long past the thirtieth of September and Jagan was anxious to know whether Kali sent the manuscript. They were living under one roof, but they were like people of two worlds. When Jagan saw light, he knew that Kali was inside. At times they face each other, but he avoids him as if he were unknown to him. Jagan feels unhappy.

The cousin came and reported to Jagan that he saw Mali riding a bicycle in Vinayak Street. Jagan asked if he talked with him. The cousin said why do not you ask him straight? Jagan said I hate to upset him. The cousin asked - when have you talked with him last? Jagan remembered and said- Three and half months ago. He was ready to go out. Jagan asked him if he had read the newspaper. He said that he had no work with it. Then he went away.

Jagan said - please find out, where he goes every day and what happened to the story. The cousin came back four days later, took his seat beside Jagan's throne and said- now. your son wants to go to America. Jagan said - America? Why? What happened to his book? The cousin said - He thinks, he will learn this art in America. It hurt Jagan's national pride. Did he say - Going to learn storytelling? Better he should go to village granny. Did Valmiki go to America to write the Ramayan?

Jagan asked - Where does he spend the day? Cousin replied-At the town public library.

Jagan - What happened to his book  Cousin - He will write it in America.

Jagan - What has America to do with writing  Cousin. He has read in a magazine that novel writing is taught there.

Jagan - What happened to the prize 

Cousin - Perhaps it has gone. He has not written the book yet.

Jagan, I have heard that people eat only beef and pork there.

Cousin - And the women are free. There are wine, women and meat. Ye, he has made all kinds of preparation.

Jagan- Without my permission or help 

Cousin - Did you know that he had gone to Madras for a few days 

Jagan - What! Without telling me 

Jagan remembered that the five rupee notes left unused on the table for a few days. He thought the boy was saving. The cousin said He has arranged a passport and other things. He knew where his father kept the money. Jagan remained silent. The cousin said - you do not worry much about it. I know much about people and their problems and the world. Did I go to any college to learn this ?. But Mali's case is separate. He wants to learn the art of writing from an American College. Jagan said - How can I live in this house without him?

The cousin said- He has worked out his tour programme minutely. He has made his American clothes in Madras. Jagan said- Can I help him in any way  Cousin said - He needs no help. The librarian has a brother in the aeroplane company and he has done everything for Mali. He has almost paid for the air ticket. Jagan did not bother about money, because everything he had, belonged to Mali. He returned and checked his cash. About ten thousand rupees had been extracted from the bundled currency. Jagan knew who the burglar was.

CHAPTER – 5

Mali went to America. The separation was unbearable for Jagan. He felt that all his money, his material success was zero without Mali. He told to every person - my son is in America. He delayed his daily routine. Now his talk was not on politics, not on philosophy or astrology rather based on America. After days of waiting when a letter came from America, he felt as if Mali had returned. The message inside was - Arrived. New York is big. The buildings are very tall. Thousands of motor cars in the street. Food is difficult. I am in the hostel. Next week I go to school. He was excited reading the letter. He told it to Natraj. He met a lawyer and told him about Mali's letter. He met the chemist and told him about it.

The cousin came at four-thirty and Jagan told him about Mali's letter. He felt relieved. Mali proved unusually communicative from across the sea. One after another letter came from him. Jagan kept them carefully and read them during leisure. He forgot the Gita. Now Mali's letters were his only concentration. Whoever he met, he talked about America. People feared that he was afflicted with the Talking Disease. He even stopped the vagrants, gave them money for list ng to America. People feel restless, but he never stops .ne cousin often wanted to see the letters, but Jagan would never allow any to touch his sons' sacred letter.

The cousin collected information about America from his source and told it to the listeners. He told people about Kennedy's death, about road accidents in America. Jagan went on getting letters and describing them to people around him. He did not tell people that his son was eating beef. Now Jagan argues - why is India begging food to America when we have many old, useless cattle to eat? They wander on the street, cause traffic pproproblemse day Jagan got a cable from Kali that he was returning home with another. He could not realise who that person was. But few days after the telegram, there came the train to Malgudi in which arrived Mali, the other person and a lot of baggage. Jagan was overwhelmed by the spectacles of his son who had grown taller, broader, fairer He wore a dark suit, overcoat, airbag, a camera, an umbrella. Mali's Sahib look made Jagan disturbed and he called him "Sir",

Mali indicated the girl at his side. This is Grace. We are married. Grace, my dad. Jagan looked perplexed. He said - what  You married! And did not tell your father? And to a Chinese  Don't you know that the Chinese invaded the borders  Jagan went to Gaffur's car loading the baggage? A small gaping crowd followed them to the car murmuring-He has come from America..Jagan and Cousin sat in the front seat leaving the back for Mali and Grace.

The taxi moved. Mali was saying looking outside - Nothing has changed. Grace was saying-charming. They reached home. Jagan had remodelled the house to suit America- returned Mali. He went straight to his room to wash and change. Jagan gave Grace a chair. She looked pleased. Jagan said you stay here. I am going to the shop.

Jagan tried to avoid people. He walked hurriedly to his shop with downcast eyes. The cousin said what will they eat now? Jagan said - The kitchen is there. They can manage easily. If not they will go to the Palace Hotel in the New Extension. Occasionally a friend of Mali ame to the use. He carried America before him. They had bro many things from America. Grace had brought a wrapped package for Jagan, Mali and Grace going out in the darkness

One morning Grace began to sweep the house She washed the vessels in the kitchen. Jagan protested. But she said the father. I do not mind it. After all, I am an Indian daughter-in-law. Jagan said I believe in doing my work. Grace said-And I believe in not letting you do it. I like to work. What else should I be doing all day? Jagan said - Mali may not like it. Grace said - It is not his business. This is the loveliest house I have ever seen.

One day Grace said - father. You allow me to cook for you Jagan said I have a vow that I shall cook my food. He told about his simple food, and the book to be published on simple food habits. He said - Has Mali finished his studies and acquired a degree in America? Did grace say why? Has not he told it to you? Jagan remained silent. Grace said He should inform everything you, Have you kept his letters? Jagan showed her a bundle of letters. She pulled out one and pointed to the ending which showed G.M. means Grace and Mali. She wrote the letters and he signed them.

Jagan looked fascinated. He said, how can I know that you were there? In India, before marriage boys and girls do not live together. Grace said my mother is a Korean. My father is an American soldier serving in the far East after the Second World War. I was born in New Jersey when my father left home. He did not come back. I studied at Margaret's girls' school. I studied domestic science at Michigan and met there Mo (Mali).*

Grace said - I had heard much about the caste system in India. So I was afraid to come here, I shook with fear when I first saw you at the railway station, Jagan said the caste system is not found in India now, Gandhi has fought against it. Grace looked happy after this hearty discussion.

One day Mali told Jagan to get a telephone for the house. Mall explained- If you get a phone your business will grow. I felt embarrassed because I could not give my friends a telephone number. He called Grace to participated in the debate. They came to the dining table. Grace and Jagan were engaged in Veda. ambrosia, natural antiseptic. Mali felt upset. He said I must go to the rail station, to check my luggage. If I had a telephone... Then he started the scooter and went out.

CHAPTER – 6

Jagan was hesitant to speak about Kali nowadays. The cousin often came to him and tried to ask him about Mali. But he always avoided the plot. The cousin said - Today I saw Mali going on a scooter. Has he bought it? Jagan said - No, it belonged to his friend. Nowadays boys do not want to walk. They need a vehicle. He asked - Did you know anything about his plan? He said - everything is going well. He was going to the station quickly and told that he would tell about his plan later.

The cousin said - Do you prefer Mali's scheme? Jagan stared at him. He does not know about Mali's scheme. The question of support or refusal does not arrive. The cousin said that when people get status, high position, they forget their old acquaintance. But Mali called him "uncle'. He has not changed. Jagan looked curious. He asked what is about his stories? Cousin said - He wants to manufacture story writing machines.

Jagan could not understand what their cousin said. Cousin said Haven't you heard of story writing machines? Jagan asked - How does it work? Cousin said - Don't ask me. I am not an engineer. Mali said that it was electronic.

The next morning, as Grace came to Jagan's room to clean his kitchen, Jagan said I want to talk to Mali. Is he free now? Grace said If he is not free, he will have to. I am giving him a message. She went out. Jagan heard the clatter of a typewriter from Mali's room Then. Grace came out and reported that he would meet him in fifteen minutes

After fifteen minutes, Jagan met Mali. He asked straight How exactly does the story machine operate? Mali said - I explained it to you yesterday. Then he opened a packet and lifted out a small object, looked like a radio object and placed it on the table. Then he said - with this machine, anyone can write a story. Then he explained - You see these four knobs. One is built on the basis that a story is made up of characters, for characters, one for plot situation, one for climax and the fourth situations, emotions, climax. You can work on it as a typewriter.

It works on transistors and ordinary valves. He said-yes; I am going to manufacture and sell it in this country. Jagan asked - Do you want to use this for writing stories?

He said – Yes, I am going to manufacture and sell it in this country.

An American company is offering to collaborate. Over time, every house will possess such a machine. We will produce more and more stories. Our nation shall be rich in stories. We have only Ramayan and Mahabharat. But in America, in each season, ten thousand books are published. Just press the keys and the formulae will come out on paper. Isn't it easy?

Jagan examined the machine with a lot of wonder and bewilderment. Mali said - look at the character button. There are headings good, bad, natural, emotional, look at the plot button. The headings are love, hate, revenge, devotion, pity. The complexities are characters, incidents, accidents. The climax is placement and disposal and conclusion. Jagan asked - How can one write a story with it? Mali said - Exactly as one does with a typewriter.

Grace came in; stood beside them and said Isn't he clever? Jagan felt as if it was not an Indian room, rather an American surrounding. A lot of questions came to his mind- what was Mali trying to do? What was his part in all this activity? What is the nature of his involvement? He said to Grace - Do you know that our ancestors never wrote the epics. They composed the epics and recited them, and the great books lived from generation to generation by the breath of people.

Mali said violently These are not the days of your ancestors. Today we have to compete with advanced countries not only in economics and industry but also in culture. Once you know the profit in my business, you will give up sweet-making and work in our business. I will give you a nice air-conditioned room with a couple of secretaries. He asked- Do people in America write stories with machines? Grace added - most magazines are nowadays switching over to the machine in their fiction department. We get American collaboration worth two hundred thousand dollars provided. We find fifty-one thousand to start the business. They will be responsible for the know-how and technical personnel, help us set up the plant, run it for six months and then quit. They will also provide us with promotional material.

Jagan looked startled. Mali continued- we have to collect forty-nine thousand dollars by public subscription. Jagan asked Grace what was her subject college? She said - Domestic science, Mali said why do you ask this? Jagan said - I thought. she has post-graduated on a business subject.

The cousin came to Jagan's shop in the afternoon. Jagan asked-Have you any idea what fifty thousand dollars are in rupees. He said - It is a little over two lakhs of rupees. Jagan said - I was held up by Mali. I have to give him more time. Otherwise, there is bound to be a lot of misunderstanding. His ideas turn on big figures nowadays. He seems to have learnt many things in America. The cousin said - He wants me to use my influence to sell the shares of the company. He wants you to arrange fifty-one thousand dollars for him.

Jagan looked alarmed and said where shall I get so much? Cousin said - Mali knows where you keep cash not sent to the bank. Then Jagan said - money is evil. The cousin said - then why do you keep a money box? Throw it away. They laughed. Jagan thought when Mali was not talking with me, I was worried, yet I was happy. Now he has begun to talk with me and he demands money. What shall I do? He said to himself - Here is a scheme to make me bankrupt.

Jagan was in the puja room. Mali and Grace came there. Mali began-people in America do everything with machines nowadays. We should bring one to our house. Jagan muttered some incantations shutting his eyes to avoid them. Grace said - we should not disturb him. Let's wait till the prayer ends. Henceforward Jagan noticed that Grace was more interested in the machine than Mali. She was doing every work for him and was waiting for her order. Is she doing all this to get fifty-one thousand dollars?

Jagan moved to his sweet shop lowering his head. The vagrant greeted him and begged for money.

Jagan - You are sturdy. Why don’t you work? Vagrant - When have I time? By the time I have gone round begging and returned here, the day is over.

Jagan - (Giving five paise) Do you know about America? Vagrant - Don't tell me much about America. What is your

son doing now?

Jagan - Starting a factory soon. Vagrant - What will he make?

Jagan Some machinery.

Jagan left the vagrant and came to the Truth printing. He met Natraj and asked - Is everything OK? Natraj said - your son has given me an urgent work to complete in three days -- the prospectus for his new enterprise, and your name is in it. Natraj showed the proof sheet. Jagan saw his name in print as the principal promoter of Mali Enterprises. The others were Grace and Mali's scooter-riding friends.

The city was soon flooded with the prospectus of Mali's company. Then Jagan came to know that the son of the kerosene dealer was the economic brain of Mali. Then they left the old scooter and moved in an old automobile. Jagan looked cross. He thought Mali and Grace would make him a beggar. But he could not express it. Now he lost interest in his shop. When he returned home he feared to meet Grace. One day he was mad to talk with Mali. Today he is afraid of the sight of Mali. Gandhi had taught him non-cooperation. He decided to use this weapon in the family.

Jagan's non-cooperation did not last long. One day Grace asked what did you think about our plan? For two weeks he was playing hide and seek with them. Today he was trapped. He said I see you have jasmine in your hair this morning. Grace said - I am a Hindu wife. It is holy Friday too. Jagan was pretending to go away. But Mali reached at that time. Jagan said - you talk here. I have to go to open the shop. Mali said- what did you decide about my plan? I have kept your name as the best promoter.

Jagan said I have noticed it, but you have put my name without asking me. Mali said - I have told you that I am starting a business. You said - Go ahead. Today you deny it. Nothing shall be done in this country. Jagan said I am a poor man, where shall I get fifty thousand dollars? Gandhi always avoided poverty and riches. Mali said - But you earn one thousand rupees a day. Jagan said - If you think so, why do not you run the shop instead of a machine? Mali said - What! I shall be a vendor of sweets!

Jagan walked to the shop. He met vagrant on the way and gave him five paise. He thought - This vagrant is better than Mali. He never expects fifty thousand from me. At four-thirty the cousin came. Jagan said - from tomorrow, the price of everything will be reduced. The cousin said why? Jagan said - The cost of the raw material used for the sweets is Rs. 100/-. The stall payment is Rs. 100/-. So the sweet produced should be sold at Rs. 200 or slightly more. Why should we take double profit? Why should not the customers be benefitted? 

The cousin said - you appear different today. Jagan said - I asked Mali to run this shop. But he denied it. Cousin said. His ideas are different. Jagan thought for a while and said - money is evil. He told his sellers to give people a packet of sweetmeat each free of cost. The cousin looked scared. He said Do not bother too much. Go on a pilgrimage. Jagan said - wait! In a day or two, some changes are coming. The cousin said I will tell everything to Mali and Grace.

CHAPTER -7

After two days, the cousin came to the shop entrance of Jagan and found a placard hung from the counter- Any packet 25 paise. There was much clamour for the packet. The boy at the counter was unable to control the crowd. By five O'clock the entire stock of sweets for the day was finished. The cook looks alarmed. Jagan said- we shall not compromise with quality and quantity. But we shall give sweets at the cheapest rate.

More and more people came to take sweets. The stock had finished. They shouted. Jagan paid no heed and said- our people should learn discipline. Shivaram, captain and other sales boys could not understand what Jagan was doing. Jagan asked them to sit down. He told them the story from Gita.

When the preaching was going on there came three visitors. Jagan became incoherent and effusive when he saw them. One was the Saith from Ananda Bhawan, who had an enormous business, the second ran a canteen at the Law-courts and the third was a stranger. Jagan embraced them and offered them seats. They talked about politics, the weather and general market conditions.

The Saith said - you are making a drastic reduction in the price of your sweets. But why? Why should you upset all our business? They complained that Jagan's price reduction had affected them. Jagan asked them to sell good quality sweets prepared from good ghee, but they said that business would not run. They requested Jagan to allow them to survive in business and went away.

The bearded man returned. Jagan looked surprisingly at him. He said that he lived in Kabir street. His name was Chinna Dorai. His master was Peria Dorai. The gods and goddesses carved in the temples were made by his master. He requested to meet him who was staying some way off. Jagan asked-where do you want to take me? He said- to show you the place where he lived and worked.

The bearded man said- I make hair dyes. I can make the whitest hair look black. That said is my best customer in the town. Do you need my service? My responsibility is to make people look young, Jagan thought- I shall dye my hair and amuse Mali. He said- I shall tell you later.

CHAPTER – 8

Jagan went to meet Peria Dorai. Chinna Dorai led him all the way. They reached near a pond covered with blue lotus. On the bank, stood a small shrine supported on stone pillars. The surroundings were covered with vegetation of every type. Jagan said-so quiet everywhere. Chinna Dorai said - It was quieter when I first came to this place. At that time there was none here except my master and I. Jagan said- why did you choose this place? What would one eat here? What shall women and children of a person do here? Chinna Dorai said - my master is unmarried. I came to him when I was five years old, I do not know who my parents were. People say - I was picked up by my master on the river step.

Jagan thought Chinna might be the illegal child of Peria Dorai. But he did not say so. He said - you make the beard of people black. Why do not you make your beard black? Chinna said- I have never felt so. Then he talked about his master. He worked day and night in a room. He had no acquaintance with the external world. Chinna cooked food for him. He never saw anyone except when some temple men came to order an image. People were afraid to come there because of snakes. but Peria Dorai loved them. He enjoyed the company of snakes and monkeys and everything. He used to say we must not monopolise this earth. They won't harm us. He died one night and cremated his body beyond that pond. The next day I walked off to the city and lived on the charity here and there. Then the idea of my business got to my mind.

Chinna Dorai went to talking about his master, his wonderful artwork, the Vishnu image, Natraj image, his advice, his funeral. Jagan listened to a gape as if a new world had flashed into view. He realised his shop, his business, Mali's antics to be meaningless. He thought - Am I on the verge of a new Janma? Chinna climbed up a tree, plucked some fruit and gave it to Jagan. He kept it for future use.

Jagan told Chinna about this theory and practice of life. He said - I have written everything in my book. Chinna looked upset hearing about printed books. He was concerned about palm leaf and inscription on stone. Then he searched for a slab. Jagan asked - Is it important? He said very importantly. When I have found it, you will know. Then he entered the pond water and invited Jagan to enter there. Jagan entered the water and thought - will the man kill me here?

Jagan noticed that ever since they had stepped into the garden the man had become more and more authoritarian. He said - plunge your hand in the water. As Jagan entered his hand, he felt a stone. Chinna said my master dropped the stones in water for seasoning, Help me to lift them. Then they caught the stone and lifted it to the top step. Chinna scraped the moss of the stone and looked intoxicated. He said - It is the image of ten-handed Devi. If you got her blessings, you can be successful.

Chinna said I am sixty-nine. I am prepared to die peacefully on my seventieth birthday if I can finish that image and install it on its pédestal. He said - I may not be successful, may be successful. But once it is made, the world can see the goddess of radiance: She possesses ten hands. She combines in her divinity everything we perceive and feel from the bare, dry bone to all beauty in creation.

Jagan was filled with awe and reverence at the picture. Chinna said-mmyhe the master always meditated on this form and wanted to create the image for others to contemplate. That was his aim and if I can carry it out, I will abandon all other work in life. It is only a man like you that can help with this task. Why don't you buy this garden and install the goddess?

Jagan looked thoughtful: Chinna said - our holy scripture says-when people grow old, they leave the whole responsibility to their children and live in ashram amidst trees, birds. They retreat to nature. Jagan thought - "I too want to retreat from my son, my daughter-in-law." But he could not say: He felt shy and reserved about talking of his son - like one not wishing to exhibit his sores.

CHAPTER – 9

Jagan tried to avoid Kali and his wife Grace. So he got a separate key to enter the house and to go out. One day he came in and began cooking. While the cooking was on, he took out his small Charakha and began spinning. He praised Gandhi for teaching people to be self-reliant. The image of the bearded man came to his mind. He wondered - why did the man meet him? Who sent him there? Why did he take him to the peaceful garden? Should he help him? But he does not know the man. How could he trust him?

Jagan's thought was endless. He wanted to print his book. But Natraj duped him. He printed Mali's papers quickly but neglected his work. Doesn't he like his idea? In the meantime, he heard a knock on the door. Then the middle door opened and Mali came in. He occupied a chair. Jagan asked - what do you want?

Mali Everyone talks about you in the town. Jagan- What do they talk about? Who are they?

Mali Ananda Bhaban Saith and many others.

Jagan- Let them. I am a new personality. I have to talk a tongue.

new

Mali- The cable came in the afternoon from my associates. Jagan- What does the cable say?

Mali- Please cable..........status of our project. Jagan- Why should they ask you to cable when a letter will do?

Mali

We have to more pretty fast in business.

Jagan- What is the status? Whose status are they talking about? Are we going through our manufacturing business or

Mali

riot.

Jagan- Son, I will leave you in charge of my sweet shop. Mali- I tell you once and for all. I do not want to be a vendor of sweets. I have learnt valuable things in the USA. Why can't our country make use of my knowledge? In any

case, your business is worth nothing now.

Jagan- Who told you that? Mali- Everyone in the trade is talking about you. What are you trying to do?

Jagan- Leave it to me, where is Grace?

Mali- Why? I want a reply from you.

Jagan- What sort of reply? Mali- Are you coming to our business?

Jagan- If I do not.... ? Mali Grace will have to go back. We will have to buy her an air ticket.

Jagan-But why?

Mali- What will she do here?

Jagan- Call her. Let me talk to her.

Mali- She was gone out.

Jagan- Where, at this moment of the night. Mali- She can go anywhere she pleases. Why should anyone question her?

Jagan- Is she unhappy here?

Mali- Who are you to stop her? She is a free person, not like the daughter-in-law in our miserable country.

Jagan- Has anything made her unhappy?

Mali- Is there anything to make her happy? She came here for the project.

Jagan- But a wife comes for the husband.

Mali- That was in your day.

Mali Left the place. Jagan could not sleep that night. Grace's absence made him uneasy. The growing detachment between Kali and Grace was not a good sign at all.

CHAPTER – 10

Jagan wanted to meet Grace. But she seemed to be avoiding him. Once it was a time when he could talk freely with her. But after they sought money from him, he avoided them and they too remained for. The difference was growing. Mali went on typing in his room. After a while, he heard the conversation between Mali and Grace, and then they went out. So Jagan was harassed.

The cousin had been absent for several days. He had been to Tirupati Hills with the judge's family. Jagan said - you are wanted everywhere. He asked - Has the reduction of prices affected the quality of our sweets? The cousin said - such a thing is unthinkable. Jagan said - But the Anand Bhaban Saith.. the cousin said - They are talking about you all the time. Jagan said - what do they say?

Cousin -They say you will raise the price soon.

 Jagan- I do not think I will.

Cousin-But what is the profit? They send their people, buy sweets from you and sell it their shops at a high price.

 Jagan- Is it? I have never thought of it.

Cousin - Don't worry. I was joking.

Jagan- Have you seen Mali recently?

Cousin-I meets him at the judge's house last. evening-nothing changes him.

Jagan-. But he can't speak two sentences without upsetting me.

Cousin- You are a wise man. You do not think much about it. 

Jagan-What did he tell you?

Cousin- He said that Grace would go back to America soon. Jagan- But why?

Cousin-On business, something to do with the machine. His business seems to be promising. The Anand Bhaban Saith and few others have agreed to buy his shares. Jagan- I want your help. I want to speak to Grace.

Cousin-Well, I see Grace sometimes visiting Dr Kuruvilla's house. At that time Mali shall not be there. There you can meet her.

One afternoon, a cousin came and said - If you are ready,

you can meet Grace at home. Mali is waiting for me at the judge's house. I shall keep him engaged till evening. He wants to make a huge building for his factory.

Jagan went home, went to the pooja room and prayed to God. Grace opened the door and said -Father! You are here at this hour?

Jagan -I have to talk to you.

 Grace- Please come in.

Jagan- I don't see you in my house nowadays. Why? Do you want to go back?

Grace- Father, Mo. (Mali) wants me to go back. Jagan- Why?

Grace- It is all over, that is all. He says, he can't afford to keep me here. He has no more use for me.

 Jagan-Use or no use - a wife is always a wife. If you read our Puranas, the wife's place is beside her husband.

Grace-But we are not married. He had promised he would marry me in the Indian way.

Jagan-And the marriage did not take place here, well. I am going to the shop now.

Jagan went to the shop. The cousin came at 4.30 p.m. He said-How much do you know Mali? He is not yet married. The cousin said - yes, I know it. Many people in the town want to give their daughters to Mali. Can you give me his horoscope?

Jagan avoided the topic. He said I have done wrong by lowering the price of the sweets. I do not want to invite many enemies. 

Cousin- Did you talk with the girl?

Jagan- Not girl, but Mali's wife. But she said that she has not married yet.

Cousin - Then why not let her go back to her country as Mali wants? Our young men live in a different world from ours. We must not upset them by imposing our thoughts upon them.

Jagan- This sort of thing is unheard of in our family. Even my grandfather's brother who was immoral never did such a thing. When he was unmarried, he never claimed that he had married.

Jagan said - My grandfather's brother was immoral. He had married three wives and had numerous other women. He never shirked responsibility. I can't understand how two young persons can live together without being married. I feel my home faints now. I find it difficult to go back there.

The cousin said - why do not you ask Mali about it? His business is not prospering. So he is upset. Jagan said - Don't. make any light remark. My son and Grace are living in one room. But Grace is not my daughter-in-law. The Cousin said - why do you bother too much about it? What does the Gita say about it? You have explained to me, one should not identify oneself with objects or circumstances.

Jagan said liked their cousin's reply. He said - we are blinded by our attachments. Every attachment creates a delusion and we are carried away by it. Suddenly he remembered that son, daughter-in-law, business all are delusions. How could he live in a tainted house? With an immoral boy and a foreign girl? I must tell them to go anywhere they like and not to pollute my house.

Cousin said-If this is your problem arrange their marriage soon. 

Jagan said - But she is a foreign girl. I do not know her Caste.

Cousin said - Caste is an outdated philosophy. Besides she can be converted.

 Jagan said - You are my saviour.

CHAPTER – 11

Jagan barricaded himself. He closed the door which connects him with Mali. He even closed the ventilator. He gave up the use of the front door. He went shopping through a narrow path. After fifty years he was travelling on this road. He was playing on this path at that time, catching dragonflies, grasshoppers. His sister was threatening him. Since the advent of Grace, all his relations had ostracised him. His sister had written a letter a year ago- we are ashamed to refer to you as a brother. When you joined with Gandhi and kept the company of four-caste people, We did not mind. But now, you have a beef-eating Christian for daughter-in-law. I can heartily call. you a brother. Our parents are fortunate not to see your unsavoury activities.

Thus Jagan turned an outcast. It was a blessing in disguise. He did not have to spend time and money on the so-called relatives. He was going to shop when the green car with Mali and Grace drove past. Mali pulled up the brakes and waited for Jagan. Grace said - Do you want a lift? He denied and walked.

Jagan isolated himself so thoroughly that we did not notice Grace for a fortnight. One morning he heard some sound in Mali's room. Being curious he came to the window and peeped through it. Mali shouted - who is there? Jagan tried to tiptoe away. Mali came out and said, Father! You could have knocked. Why do you prowl like this? Jagan said - where is Grace? Mali said - why do you want her? Jagan said - I have not seen her for a long time. Mali said - How can you see anyone when you have sealed yourself off and use the backdoor? 

Jagan- I want to talk to you both. Come out. 

Mali-Why should we talk in the garden?

Jagan - It is pleasant there.

Mali - But all the passers-by will watch us.

 Jagan - Why should not people look at us? What's wrong with it. us?

Mali - At least we should have privacy. In America, nobody stares at another. But in India............

Jagan - If we do not look at each others' faces, how can we study the behaviour? Leave it. Is Grace inside or not?

Mali - She has gone to stay with some friends for a few days.

Jagan - How long?

Mali How could you know? You have sealed off the middle door. Do you think my business will be dropped because you have shut the door?

Jagan - I think, you must not be married soon. Mali- What! you have been listening to nonsense. Don't pay heed to gossip.

Jagan - I do not know anything. There is a small temple. You should go through a quick marriage. None need is invited, just the three of us and a priest. The whole business will be over in an hour.

Mali- Grace is not in her right mind, She must go to a psychiatrist.

Jagan - What's that?

Mali- Don't you know a psychiatrist? Hopeless? Mali went in angrily. When Jagan was worried, the neighbour came and asked what is your son doing? Jagan replied - He is in business with some American businessmen. He said - oh, that is very good. He will earn dollars for our country. Jagan knew the man will then question Grace. So he left. the place...

CHAPTER – 12

Jagan spent the whole day in a worried manner. The business in the shop was going on mechanically. He counted the cash, made entries. Cousin came, ate, made remarks. Customers were going and coming. But his mind was revolving around the puzzle created by Mali. In the evening he sat alone on the pedestal of the statue. He remembered his past.

Once he had a happy home. One day he travelled to the village of Kuppam to look at the bride proposed for him. Jagan was in a happy mood and laughed unnecessarily. A cart had come to take him from the station. His elder brother accompanied him. When they reached the future father-in-law and many others watched him intently., ney kept him busy to judge his intelligence and outlook. His elder brother was guiding and instructing what to do and what not.

Jagan was given the bride's photograph. Then food was given to them. But he could not take much because of the elder brother's advice. Then his future mother-in-law appeared at the doorway Jagan had inspected four would-be brides so far. On two occasions he had kept staring at the girls in open-mouthed wonder because they were ugly. On another occasion, he looked at the lame girl's feet.

Jagan and his brother were led to the central hall. A harmonium sounded somewhere inside. The bride's father said - Ambika is singing. She can sing very well. A girl came and said - Ambika refuses to come out. She feels shy. The master of the house ordered- Ambika comes on. Then the girl came. But the master said she is my first daughter. Then Ambika came with downcast eyes, and bowing head.

Jagan stared at the girl. Few minutes passed. The girl shot one lightning glance at him. Jagan's heart palpitated and raced and before he could do anything, it was all over. The assembly melted. All through their return journey, Jagan remained pensive his brother did not try to disturb his mood. Jagan, said how will they know? Should we not tell them? His brother stood stiff and said - Are you a fool? How can we cheapen ourselves?

Jagan remained silent. They started the train journey. His elder brother fell asleep. But Jagan was thinking deeply over the bride. He thought about her sweet tone, her sweet face, her sweet smile. From the station, they took a jataka and reached home. His mother, father and sister were present. They told him nothing. Jagan was astonished why nobody was positive about the proposal. But when he was preparing himself to go the college, his sister came smiling and said someone is getting married soon. The house was in great excitement. His brother's wife had been summoned from her parents' house to help with the arrangements for the wedding. Stage by stage the tempo increased. His father wrote numerous postcards to relatives. After receiving the approvals from his elders, Jagan's father carried on several consultations with his wife in a whisper.

Jagan was younger. So he was kept away from marriage discussion. He got the news of marriage development through his sister. She said - grand uncle has approved. Father is writing to the bride's people tomorrow. They are waiting for an auspicious time. Father wants a dowry of five thousand rupees. Jagan looked worried. If they refused to pay, what would happen?

Father's letter of approval went to Kuppam village. One evening the bride's party arrived with new clothes, fruits, saffron, sandal, priests, Brahmins came. The senior priest announced that Jagannath, son of so and so was to marry Ambika, daughter of so and so, on the tenth of September. The bride's father offered half-dowry in advance. Then a feast was prepared for the party. By the midnight train, the bride's party were seen off. After their departure, the women of the house evaluated the sarees and ornaments. Jagan's mother said - Jagan! Your father-in-law is no mean sort.

September came. Jagan's examination was over. Jagan prepared his dress at a tailor. They sent out three thousand invitations. The result was that an enormous crowd turned up by bus, train and vehicles at the wedding in Kuppam village. Jagan greeted them and fell prostrate at their feet. Then he sat before the holy fire. There were jokes. Jagan felt particularly martyred. The noise, the music, the jokes continued for three days. A photographer took the photograph too.

Jagan was given a room in the middle block. When he and his wife shut the door, they were in a world of their own. When they were alone Jagan spent all his time in lovemaking. He found his education a big nuisance, cut his classes and came back home and waited for her. But she had her duty. Ambika often told him that he must perform her duty as a daughter-in-law. But Jagan forced her to fulfil his desire first.

Jagan's married life completed ten years. They were a happy couple. They spent many hours in the bedroom. So the family member grumbled. He neglected his studies. He failed repeatedly in the intermediate and then in B.A. class, still, there was no sign of a child in the house. His brother had moved off to Vinayak street with his entire family. His sister married and went to her husband's house. Now Jagan's house was lonely. Jagan's mother grumbled. She said- All one asks of a girl is that she at least bring some children into a house. Nobody wants gold or silver from a bride.

Ambika often told Jagan at night that his mother was turning harsh with her. Jagan told- why don't you oppose like modern girls? My brother has many children. Why don’t they take them? Ambika said- your mother thinks that I am infertile. Jagan said- nobody in our family is infertile. You can see our group photo. Ambika said- nobody in my family is barred. You can see our group photo. We are not an impotent family. Then he went out and slept alone.

Both Ambika and Jagan craved a child. One day his father said- next Tuesday we are going to the temple on Badri Hill. You and Ambika will go with us. Jagan asked - why should we go there? Father said- The temple is known as Santana Krushna. A visit to it is the only known remedy for barrenness in women. Jagan had decided to study hard and pass B.A. this time. Ambika too advised him to go to the hostel. She said why do not you pick up your books and go away to a hostel? Your mother seems to think, I am always lying on your lap. She says, I, being uneducated, want to drag you down to my level. So Jagan said can't we go after the examination. Father said- No, this is the only month when we can go up the hill. Ten months in the year it is raining up there.

The journey started. The party consisted of Jagan, his wife, his father and his mother. Ambika sat beside Jagan's mother and Jagan sat near his father. Jagan wanted to sit near Ambika, but men are not allowed to sit near women. The bus deposited them in a village at the foot of the hill. They bought an account from a woman. She said- no one who prays at that temple is ever disappointed with a daughter. Then Mali was born. He was weighed on a scale pan, because they had to give a similar weight of gold and silver to the god on Badri, Hill, according to the solemn vow made during their visit. Jagan's father said- I did not doubt at any time. Barrenness is unknown in our house. They arranged a grand feast.

CHAPTER – 13

Brooding on the past, Jagan was dozing at the foot of the statue. The clamour of the birds awakened him. His house looked clearly in the morning light. The house looked grim. He thought my mother and Ambika were taking care of this house. But Kali and Grace are polluting it. They blacken their surrounding. Probably they will be happier without me. They have made it a tainted house. I am sixty now. I can live ten or fifteen years more. But Mali has a long life. If he is polluting his house, why should I break him?

Jagan returned home for bathing. After his morning ablutions and nourishment, he came out of his house, carrying a little bundle in which there was a Charaka. The key was with him. He thought he will give it to someone. Now his house is going to be deserted. He said to himself- I am off to a retreat. I am sixty and in a new janma. He wanted to go to his elder brother's house and see him for the last time.

When he was passing Sir Frederick Lawley he saw his cousin riding down clumsily on a bicycle. He stopped and said - 1 was in a hurry to meet you and so borrowed the bicycle from my neighbour, Shall I keep it in your house? Jagan said - I have no house now. The cousin said come with me. Our lawyer is waiting. Mali needs immediate help. He is in prison since last evening.

Japan - But why? 

Cousin - He was found with half a bottle of alcohol in his car.

Jagan - Why did he buy the car?

Cousin - Don't interrupt me. You must get him out of the police lock-up at once. We could have got him out last night if you had not disappeared.

Jagan - I was sleeping on the statue.

Cousin - Oh God! I searched for you in the whole town. Let's help Mali.

Japan - Poor boy! How can I get him out? 

Cousin - Don't show your tear to me, Do everything in action. Jagan felt giddy and fell. The cousin said- You need rest. Let's go to your house. Mali is in the sub-jail. I know the District collector. I went to the jail and gave him coffee to drink.

Jagan asked a cousin to narrate the whole story. He said- I was returning home at six O'clock. A man informed me that the green car had been seized by police. The police sealed the bottle before witnesses and have charged the inmates of the car under the Prohibition Act. Along with Mali, two other friends have been arrested. The car is in the police station,

Jagan asked how can we help Mali? Cousin said- There are some fever mixtures which gives the breath smells of alcohol. A doctor will certify that it was not alcohol, but a fevered mixture. The lawyer will manage everything. He said- we shall say that Mali had gone there to meet his foreign collaborators. On the way, a man wanted a lift. He might have kept the bottle there. The case is in our favour. The policemen are generally prejudiced against young people driving cars. Do not worry. The lawyer will guide us.

Jagan said- If you are telling the truth, this truth will bring him out. Who am I? You do not expect me to take part in it. I am going somewhere, not taking many goods. The cousin asked where are you going? Jagan said- across the river. The cousin stood aghast. He said- I know the place. Has that hairdryer been trying to sell it to you? He is à sorcerer and knows black magic and offers to transmute base metals into gold. Jagan said- I am going to watch a goddess come out of a stone. I must go. The world will not collapse because I went. You take the keys and open the shop. at the usual hour and run it. Mali will take charge of it eventually. Keep Shivaraman and the rest happy. You can meet me at my retreat.

The cousin said- The lawyer wants two thousand rupees for preliminary expenses. He will arrange the bail. Jagan opened the bag and signed a cheque. The cousin said- If we need more money... Jagan said- I am not going to another planet. I must catch the 8.30 a.m. bus. But where is Grace? The cousin said Her friends have found a job for her in a women's hostel. Jagan said- If you meet her, tell her that if she ever wants to go back to her country. I will buy her a ticket. It's a duty we owe her. She was a good girl.