His great eyes restless-red;[1]
Why should this man be thus enforced to fight—
So noble he—with such ignoble plight,
His foot to fetters wed? 5
Who are you, sir?
Aryaka. I am one who seeks your protection, Aryaka, by birth a herdsman.
Chārudatta. Are you he whom King Pālaka took from the hamlet where he lived and thrust into prison?
Aryaka. The same.
Chārudatta. 'Tis fate that brings you to my sight;
May I be reft of heaven's light,
Ere I desert you in your hapless plight. 6
[Aryaka manifests his joy.]
Chārudatta. Vardhamānaka, remove the fetters from his foot.
Vardhamānaka. Yes, sir. [He does so.] Master, the fetters are removed.
Aryaka. But you have bound me with yet stronger fetters of love.
Maitreya. Now you may put on the fetters yourself. He is free anyway. And it's time for us to be going.
Chārudatta. Peace! For shame!
Aryaka. Chārudatta, my friend, I entered your cart somewhat unceremoniously. I beg your pardon.
Chārudatta. I feel honored that you should use no ceremony with me.
Aryaka. If you permit it, I now desire to go.
Chārudatta. Go in peace.
Aryaka. Thank you. I will alight from the cart.
Chārudatta. No, my friend. The fetters have but this moment been removed, and you will find walking difficult. In this spot
- ↑ Lallādīkshita says that these are signs of royalty.
