Atma - A Romance

The shrine of the Well of Purity was on a dainty islet which lay in the

centre of a small lake. The grotto was almost concealed from view, but

moving forms of worshippers were visible among the trees when Atma and

Bertram drew near to the water's edge. A band of laughing girls carrying

laden baskets of corn, and rice, and flowers were leaving the shore in a

light skiff. It was a lovely scene, the shining lake reflecting again

the gem-like mound of foliage which rested on its breast. Bertram gazed

on the picture, whilst Atma, whose quick and expectant eyes had

discerned the form of Nama near at hand, followed her unnoticed by his

companion. The Maharanee, Nama related, had sent to Atma Singh the gold

which she carried, in token of her approval of her loyal servitor, and

also a box of onyx which she prayed him to open and read words contained

therein, retaining meanwhile possession of the casket and its contents

until further tidings. With many reverences Nama further informed him

that the Fairest of all the Lilies pined for him, was grieving at his

absence, but was now to be gladdened by the prospect of his speedy

return, which tidings the Maharanee had deputed her to convey forthwith

to the household of Lehna Singh. Notwithstanding the joy of knowing

himself an object of tender solicitude, a vague foreboding once again

filled the soul of Atma. When the woman left him he considered

thoughtfully the messages he had just received, slowly meanwhile undoing

the claspings of the onyx box and raised the lid. Immediately a powerful

odour issued from it and almost overcame him. He reeled and gasped for

breath, nearly losing consciousness. However, having seated himself, he

presently recovered, and somewhat more cautiously opening the casket, he

drew from it a paper which contained a strangely worded commendation of

himself, "The staunch and courageous friend of the Ranee, the Restorer

of the Sapphire of Fate, the foe of whatever was inimical or false to

the Sikh interest." Thought Atma, "This praise is no doubt won by the

good report conveyed to her by Lal Singh, who, notwithstanding faults,

can be generous as well as just to a Sikh brother."

He remained seated for some time, his head supported on his hand, for he

still felt giddy, thinking painfully and earnestly. The numbing effects

of the odour he had inhaled testified to its poisonous nature, but no

precautions, he reflected, had been taken to ensure its effect; on the

contrary, its immediate result was to alarm and warn the rash meddler

ere mischief could be wrought. Nama also had hastened away, as not

expecting any such terrible issue, of which certain tidings would be

desired if murder such as he dreamed of had been contemplated. It could

not be, he thought, and Rajah Lal would explain on his return what now

appeared so mysterious.