After Hira's interview with Debendra, Malati the milk-woman became a constant visitor at Hira's dwelling.

Malati perceived that Hira was not pleased at this; also that one room remained constantly closed.

The door was secured by a chain and padlock on the outside; but Malati coming in unexpectedly, perceived that the padlock was absent.

Malati removed the chain and pushed the door, but it was fastened inside, and she guessed that some one must be in the room.

She asked herself who it could be?
At first she thought of a lover; but then, whose lover?
Malati knew everything that went on, so she dismissed this idea.