Under
the influence of jealousy Hira had become so enraged with Kunda, that
far from wishing her well she would gladly have seen her go to
destruction. But in jealous fear lest Debendra should gain access to
Kunda, Hira constituted herself the guardian of Nagendra's wife.
Thus the servant Hira became the cause of suffering to Kunda, who saw
that Hira's zeal and attention did not arise from affection. She
perceived that Hira, though a servant, showed want of trust in her,
and continually scolded and insulted her. Kunda was of a very peaceful
disposition; though rendered ill by Hira's conduct she said nothing to
her. Kunda's nature was calm, Hira's passionate. Thus Kunda, though
the master's wife, submitted as if she were a dependant; Hira lorded
it over her as if she were the mistress. Sometimes the other ladies of
the house, seeing Kunda suffer, scolded Hira, but they could not stand
before Hira's eloquence.
The _Dewan_ hearing of her doings, said to Hira: "Go away; I dismiss
you."
Hira replied, with flaming eyes: "Who are you to dismiss me? I was
placed here by the master, and except at his command I will not go. I
have as much power to dismiss you as you have to dismiss me.
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