Rama's Labyrinth: A Biographical Novel (Women of Determination and Courage)

Rama rushed back outside. How could she delay a herd of goats? The cow, having discovered more grass, partially blocked the road. Maybe if she stood behind the cow the shepherd would see her.

“Baa, baa,” the goats bleated. The lead goats reached Rama and began to divide.

“Get out of the way!” the shepherd shouted.

Rama waved her arms.

“Move. You’re dividing the herd.”

Rama waved her arms and pointed at the gate where her mother now stood.

“Rama, quickly, go catch the goats,” Laxmibai said.

Rama ran in front of the herd, and turned the lead goats towards the side of the road. Fortunately the others followed. “Thank you, Goddess Sarasvati,” Rama prayed. The shepherd and Laxmibai gestured and shouted at each other as if speaking louder would make it easier to converse. Laxmibai pointed at the goat pen. Finally the shepherd went over and examined the three goats.

It certainly took you long enough, Rama thought. It would be easier if we understood local dialects.

The shepherd drove the once penned goats towards his herd. Laxmibai held out her hand. He gave her some coins. She shouted and he gave her a few more. Laxmibai nodded, and the deal was done.