‘I worked yesterday at Sita’s house,’ answered Beena. She made one attempt to clear her conscience. ‘We worked all morning and got so tired that nothing would stay in our heads. So we decided . . . . ’

‘No, no, it is foolish to force the mind to things it cannot retain,’ interrupted her father, trying to make up. ‘When I was at college, I never worked more than two hours at a stretch. When I got tired, I used to take a walk in the fresh air; fresh air is best. Some of the boys used to go off to the cinema after working all day. When the eyes are tired, the stuffy atmosphere in a cinema can do them no good.’

Beena did not have the nerve to mention the pictures after that. Sher Singh realized that and decided to keep the knowledge of his sister’s escapade to himself and question her when the occasion arose. Buta Singh had not finished talking about himself. ‘The Guru was merciful; yesterday went off peacefully. Our Sahib was scared: “There will be a Hindu-Muslim riot . . . The Communists will be up to mischief.” I said, “Sahib, don’t worry, all will be well.” He also wanted to know about your meeting.’

‘The place was packed to capacity.’

‘I hope you didn’t say anything indiscreet.’

‘O, no! There’s no such danger.’

‘You have to be careful. Many people would like to create mischief for the family. It is wise to be cautious.’

Buta Singh rose form the table, ‘I better inquire from Mr Taylor whether he slept well or had nightmares of riots.’ The family obliged with a laugh.

Buta Singh left. Sabhrai turned to her brood with maternal aggressiveness. ‘Did you go to the Gurudwara or just carry on your buk buk nonsense?’ she asked her son.

Sher laughed. ‘There are so many to say prayers for me. You must have said one, Champak another.’

It gave Champak an opportunity to enter into the family discourse. ‘I had a very quiet day all alone. I washed my hair and listened to the hymns relayed from the temple by the radio. Then I said my evening prayers and put the Granth to rest. It was very peaceful.’

Chapter II