Trishasti Shalaka Purusa Caritra Part 6

Author(s): Hemchandracharya, Helen M Johnson
Publisher: Oriental Research Institute Vadodra

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CHAPTER ELEVEN
indicated the growth of a mutual love. Pradyota's daughter said: "Oh! Oh! I have been deceived by my father, sir, I who did not see you like the moon in the darkness of amāvāsyā.214 Teacher of the arts, you taught me all the arts thoroughly. Let them be of use to you, no one else. Be my husband." This king of the Vatsas replied: "Fair lady, I also have been deceived by your father. I was prevented from seeing you by his concealing you with the words, 'She is one-eyed.' Beloved, let our union take place, even while we remain here. At a suitable time, I shall take you away, as Vainateya (Garuḍa) took the nectar." They spoke thus in direct communication with each other in a manner charming with intelligence and the union of their bodies took place as if in emulation of the union of their minds. A slavewoman, Vasavadatta's nurse, a suitable depository of confidence, named Kāñcanamālā, alone knew their behavior. Served by the slave Kañcanamālā alone, they lived as man and wife, unknown to any one.
One day Nalagiri pulled up his post, knocked down two elephant-drivers and, roaming as he liked, terrified the townspeople. "How is that elephant, which is controlled by no one, to be subdued?" the king asked Abhaya who suggested, "Have king Udayana sing." Commanded by the king, Sing to Nalagiri," Udayana and Vasavadatta sang to him. As a result of hearing his song, the elephant Nalagiri was thrown and made captive. Then the king gave Abhaya another boon which he kept in reserve also.
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One day the king, accompanied by a train of women from the harem and of wealthy citizens, went to a garden for a picnic. At that time the minister Yogandharāyaṇa was wandering along the path, reflecting on a means of freeing the king of the Vatsas. Unable to control in his heart the burning power of his own cleverness, he spoke aloud. Generally what is in the mind is also in the speech. "If I
214 221. The night of complete darkness.