Page:Sacontala (Jones 1870).djvu/29

Rh

Dushm. [Aside.] Admirably spoken, Priyamvadá! No; her charms cannot be hidden, even though a robe of intertwisted fibres be thrown over her shoulders, and conceal a part of her bosom, like a veil of yellow leaves enfolding a radiant flower. The water lily, though dark moss may settle on its head, is nevertheless beautiful; and the moon with dewy beams is rendered yet brighter by its black spots. The bark itself acquires elegance from the features of a girl with antelope's eyes and rather augments than diminishes my ardour. Many are the rough stalks which support the water lily; but many and exquisite are the blossoms which hang on them.

Sac. [Looking before her.] Yon Amra tree, my friends, points with the finger of its leaves, which the gale gently agitates, and seems inclined to whisper some secret. I will go near it.

[They all approach the tree.

Pri. O my Sacontalá, let us remain some time in this shade.

Sac. Why here particularly?

Pri. Because the Amra tree seems wedded to you who are graceful as the blooming creeper which twines round it.

Sac. Properly are you named Priyamvadá, or speaking kindly.

Dushm. [Aside.] She speaks truly. Yes; her lip glows like the tender leaflet; her arms resemble two flexible stalks; and youthful beauty shines, like a blossom, in all her lineaments.