Let me
tell you the story. A few months ago a stranger came to this village. He
was on his way to Fathpur-Sikri, to witness the glories of the court of
the mighty Akbar. But on the road he had fallen ill, and, arriving here,
was too sick to proceed. I am ashamed to say that none of us were
willing to take him in, for sickness goes from one person to another. So
we have to be careful, especially in my calling, where I come into such
close contact with so many.
"'There was quite a little crowd just here by the tank, discussing the
situation, the sick man in their midst resting upon the ground, when
Baji Lal and his wife, who happened to be passing, came forward to see
what the commotion was all about. They listened to the story, and then
told the stranger he might come with them. He gratefully accepted, and,
after whispering some instructions to a servant by whom he was
accompanied, he motioned to Baji Lal to lead the way. The little group
moved off, the servant in the rear, leading the horses, which included a
pack animal laden with the traveller's bedding, cooking pots, and other
belongings.
"'After unloading the baggage at Baji Lal's home, the servant, as we
learned later in the day, had, in obedience to orders, straightway
mounted his horse, and ridden away.
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