"How do you exist?"
"I have some biscuits and I buy a draught of water from the caste waterman in the town. Mr. Alderbury very kindly brought me some food when he came to see me."
"I can't bring you any food I am sorry to say. My mother would consider it an unfriendly act towards your parents. How is your money lasting?"
"It is nearly finished."
"And then?"
"I haven't thought about it," replied Ananda, a troubled expression overshadowing his face.
"I can lend you a little. I brought it to-day, a ten rupee note. It is all I have that I need not account for. I can get plenty from my father, but he takes good care to inform himself of how and where it goes. The note is in this envelope. Don't let my sister see it; she might tell my mother. Just slip it into your pocket as quickly as you can."
He held out his hand to Mayita. "Come, little one, it is time we went home."
At the entrance to the compound Bopaul stopped.
"Take my advice and go to Mr. Alderbury," he said suddenly.