32
SANSKRIT STUDIES
At this stage Kamandaki stepped in accompanied by Avalokita ; and in the conversation that followed, she artfully let fall the news that Malati was being sought by the king for his favourite Nandana and that Bhurivasu was likely to agree. The mention of this unwelcome suitor sent a dart, as it were, to the heart of Malati; and she wished she had not been born, Kamandaki did not disclose her intention to thwart, if possible, Nandana’s purpose; but she gave general advice which suggested that the choice of a husband against the will of the elders in such circumstances was not without precedent in the history of virtuous maidens. Just then Avalokita reminded her of Madhava’s indisposition, news of which had reached them before ; and it gave occasion for Malati to learn that the youth on whom she had set her heart was the son of the much-esteemed Devarata, her father’s great friend. His high birth recommended Madhava to her affections the more and it was a joy to her to find that her heart had, by instinct, made the right choice.
On a certain day, Malati was to go to the temple of Sarhkara outside the city and worship the, God of all auspiciousness with flowers gathered by herself. When Kamandaki learnt of this, she instructed Madhava to be there at the time, with a view to bring about what may appear a casual interview between the two lovers. Kamandaki also went there. Soon Malati arrived accompanied by Lavangika, bewailing her lot in life which had made Nandana her suitor and wondering if she would ever again have the joy of meeting Madhava. After she had gathered flowers for the worship, Kamandaki made her sit under a shady tree to rest from the fatigue. Then she spoke of the great merits of Madhava and mentioned how his passion for Malati was preying upon him. Lavangika in her turn informed Kamandaki of the similar affliction of her mistress owing to her love for Madhava and showed her the picture she had painted as well as the vakula garland she was wearing concealed round her neck. While they were conversing thus to the great joy of Madhava who remained unseen near by, and Malati was ardently listening, a sudden cry informed them that a ferocious tiger kept in the neighbouring garden had burst open the doors of its iron cage and attacked Madayantika, sister of Nandana, the would- be bridegroom of Malati. The news greatly agitated the party ; and Madhava, leaving the place where he was, stepped into their
