He had the right to come and go; as regent he could enter the zenana without being accompanied by the council.

But, thereafter, when he arrived with the day's business she contrived to have Pundita near and Ramabai within call.

On the sixth day he cast all discretion to the winds and seized her violently in his arms.

And, though she defended her lips, her cheeks and neck were defiled.

She stepped back; the hidden dagger flashed.
"A step nearer," she cried, low voiced, "and I will strike." Umballa recoiled.