Page:The Malavikagnimitra, Tawney (2nd edition, 1891).djvu/65

( 41 ) Málaviká sits down. King.--My friend, come this way, let us hide behind the creeper.

Vidúshaka.--I think I see Irávati in the distance.

King.--But when he sees a cluster of lotuses, the elephant does not care for the alligator. (He stands gazing)

Málaviká.--Cease, my heart, from entertaining a baseless and extravagant wish. Why dost thou torture me? The Vidúshaka looks at the King.

King.--My beloved, observe the beautiful nature of love. Thou dost not reveal any cause of thy pining, nor is conjecture invariably to be relied upon, nevertheless, beautiful one, I consider myself the theme of all these lamentations.

Vidúshaka.--Now your Highness may be free from anxiety, for here comes Vakulávaliká alone, she to whom I gave the message of love.

King.--I wonder whether she will remember my petition.

Vidúshaka.--What! Do you suppose that that daughter of a female slave will forget such a weighty message from your Highness?

Enter Vakulávaliká, with the pigment for the feet in her hand.

Vakulávaliká.--Is my friend happy?

Málaviká.--Ah! here is Vakulávaliká come. Welcome my friend, sit down.