Page:The Mahabharata of Krishna-Dwaipayana Vyasa (1884).djvu/273

Rh features, thou art even an object of greater reverence! Thou art dearer than life to the high-souled Bhargava! O amiable one, as the daughter of my preceptor, thou art ever worthy of my worship. As my preceptor Sukra thy father is ever deserving of my regards, so art thou, O ! Therefore it behoveth thee not to say so.' Hearing this replied, 'Thou too art the son of my father's preceptor's son. Therefore, O best of Brahmanas, thou art deserving of my regards and worship. O Kacha, when thou wert slain so many times by the Asuras, recollect today the affection I showed for thee! Remembering my friendship and affection for thee, and, indeed, my devoted regard also, O virtuous one, it behoveth thee not to abandon me without any fault! I am truly devoted to thee!'

"Hearing all this Kacha said, 'O thou of virtuous vows, do not urge me into such a sinful course! O thou of fair eye-brows, be graceful unto me! Beautiful one, thou art to me an object of greater regard than my preceptor! Full of virtuous resolves, O large-eyed one, of face, besides, as handsome as the moon, the place where thou hadst resided, viz, the body of Kavya, hath also been my abode. Thou art truly my sister! Therefore, O slender-waisted one, do not say so! Amiable one, happily have we passed the days that we have been together. There is perfect good understanding between us. I ask thy leave to return to my abode. Therefore pronounce blessings on me so that my journey may be safe. I must be remembered by thee, when thou dost remember me in connection with topics of conversation, as one that hath not transgressed virtue! Always attend upon my preceptor with readiness and singleness of heart!' To all this, answered, 'Solicited by me, if, indeed, thou dost truly refuse to make me thy wife, then, O Kacha, this thy knowledge shall not bear fruit!'

"Hearing all this, Kacha said, 'I have refused thy request only because thou art the daughter of my preceptor, and not because thou hast any fault. Nor hast my preceptor in this respect issued any command. Curse me if it please thee! I have told thee what the behaviour should be of Rishis. I do not