Girl as Kali-Ma

A large and well-to-do family lived happily in a country place
in Bengal.

One day their peace was disturbed by an anonymous letter. The writer
warned them to expect a "dacoity" (burglary). These Indian outlaws
always make it a point of honour to inform their intended victims,
and always come with drums, torch-light and a sort of war-cry.

There was much valuable jewellery in the house and the family, thinking
discretion the better part of valour, gathered all together, packed
it securely and, taking it with them, left their home about sunset
for safe quarters.

Somehow one of the younger ladies with a tiny infant was left
behind. Unaware of the warning letter or desertion of the family,
she slept peacefully through the early hours of the night. But later,
she was awakened by the sound of drums and loud cries, which she
recognised as the signal of the dacoits. Rushing out of her chamber
she discovered that the burglars were already in the house and that
none of the family were to be found. From room to room she fled,
finding none to protect her, and realised that she was alone and
helpless. Even her husband was gone!

She was a high-spirited and resourceful girl. She knew her life
and the baby's as well were in danger and she determined to outwit
the burglars. She had a swarthy complexion like Kali, the dacoits'