Then, quite undone
With love and yearning, loudly sobbed the Prince.
Until, perceiving Keshini, who watched,
Shamed to be known, he set his children down,
And said: "In sooth, good friend, this lovely pair
So like mine own are, that at seeing them
I am surprised into these foolish tears.
Thou comest here too often; men will think
Thee light, or me; remember, we are here,
Strangers and guests, girl! Go thy ways in peace!"
But seeing that great trouble of his soul,
Lightly came Keshini, and pictured all
To Damayanti. She, burning to know
If truly this were Nala, bade the girl
Seek the Queen's presence, saying thus for her:--
"Mother! long watching Vahuka, I deem
The charioteer is Nala. One doubt lives--
His altered form. I must myself have speech
With Vahuka; thou, therefore, bid him come,
Or suffer me to seek him. Be this done
Forthwith, good mother!--whether known or not
Unto the Maharaja."
When she heard,
The Queen told Bhima what the Princess prayed,
Who gave consent; and having this good leave
From father and from mother (O my King!),
Command was sent that Vahuka be brought
Where the court ladies lodged.
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