Shyama Charan's treachery.] She fully believed that he had stolen the will and put this false one in its place.
Noto used to get reprimands.] Used to be blamed for wishing to save this waste of money. Of course the whole thing was imaginary, but it gave Bhavani the pleased feeling of being generous.
traditional extravagance.] Such as had always been displayed in former days when the family was prosperous.
Some imaginary dog.] She would say that some dog had run off with the food which she had prepared.
Bhavani had confessed.] Rashmani, Noto and Bhavani himself were all alike ready to keep up the illusion that the old magnificence was still there, if only this or that accident had not deprived them of its display.
invisible ink.] Ink which is invisible when first written with, but when heated becomes visible.
Baba, wait a little.] In Bengal daughters are often called Ma (mother) and sons Baba (father).
it became absurdly easy.] Because, after this, both the mother and her son could join in the pretence together.
lacking in proper enthusiasm.] Did not care much about the subject.
more than compensated.] The pleasure of telling the news was greater than the pain of knowing that such a sacrilege was going to take place.