Bhavani’s expression grew sad. “She sinned, but she knew also that her suffering could only be saved by sin. She stole first of all for her child. To her it meant that they should know hunger and nakedness no more. She had been brought into the world, and, in her turn, bore a boy. But the world refused her sustenance. Had she no right to take it, then? Listen, sage, to what I say; and tell me which is right: the woman, or the law? If a creature starve, and so steals bread from one that does not starve, shall she receive the ten lashes that the law provides?”
Oman bent his head a little. “Could she not work?” he asked.
“She is a widow. There is but one vocation open to her; and that I have forbidden in Mandu.”
“Then is it not the duty of the Lord Rajah to provide for those whom he has deprived of a means of livelihood?”
Bhavani flushed, deeply; and Zenaide burst into a ringing laugh. “My lord, thou art reproved!” she said, looking at Oman for the first time with interest.
“Yea, I am reproved, and deservedly. Hermit, thou art wise and just also. Alas! all my life of training hath never led me to this simple perception of the truth. But it shall be as thou hast said. Henceforth, every one that hath been deprived of his means of livelihood through me, shall by me be provided for. This mother and child shall be pardoned, and shall live together.”
“But have I not said that the boy should enter my service?” demanded Zenaide, suddenly displeased.
Oman opened his lips to speak, but Bhavani was before him: “This man, Zenaide, hath shown more wisdom than either thou or I. Let us acknowledge the truth of his words without any anger or false pride. Thus it seems good to me.” He turned a gentle look on Oman as he spoke; but the woman, her face obstinately set, turned away and walked to the parapet at some little distance, and stood leaning upon it, staring moodily off upon the darkening world. A faint, half-anxious smile curled Bhavani’s lips; but Oman, who was far from smiling, felt moved to say:
“Lord Rajah, you do me too much honor. My word should not be accepted at once against that of the beautiful woman. Least of mortals am I.”
“Most humble, but most wise!” exclaimed Bhavani. Then, after an instant, he added: “Fruitful hath been my walk to-night. Thou shalt be my guest at the palace, Oman, and later I will come to thee and we will talk. For I would know much more of this life of thine.” Then, with a little gesture that put Oman from him, he went to Zenaide and stood beside her for a moment, speaking to her; though what he said and whether she spoke at all, Oman could not tell. Finally Bhavani drew Oman to him again, and the two moved slowly away, through the star-spangled dusk, to the palace.