________________
68
Lakshmipunj neclace." On hearing the news, the minister did not show any joy. He stood as dumb as a rock.
The king asked :
"Son! Why are you sad? Did you not experience the feelihgs of joy ?"
Mahabal replied:
"My dear father! I am unhappy because of some other reason. For some days, I have found that my precious articles are stoben secretly.
The thief is so shrewd that one does not know at all about his visit. After the thing is stolan. One comer to know of it.
Even the Lakshmipunj necklace has been stolen. Because of this, the mother is so much worried that she has pledged : "If the necklack is not found with in five days, I will burn myself.' I have also pledged that I will catch hold of the thief
