Gild-warden and Clerk. Speak, Chārudatta. Do not be ashamed. This is a lawsuit.
Chārudatta. [In embarrassment.] Officials, how can I testify that a courtezan is my friend? But at worst, it is youth that bears the blame, not character.
Judge. The case is hard; then banish shame,
Though it oppress your heart;
Speak truth with fortitude, and aim
To set deceit apart. 18
Do not be embarrassed. The conduct of the case puts the question.
Chārudatta. Officer, with whom have I a lawsuit?
Sansthānaka. [Arrogantly.] With me!
Chārudatta. A lawsuit with you is unendurable!
Sansthānaka. Well, well, woman-murderer! You murder a woman like Vasantasenā who used to wear a hundred gems, and now you try deceitful deceivings to hide it!
Chārudatta. You are a fool.
Judge. Enough of him, good Chārudatta. Speak the truth. Is the courtezan your friend?
Chārudatta. She is.
Judge. Sir, where is Vasantasenā?
Chārudatta. She has gone home.
Gild-warden and Clerk. How did she go? When did she go? Who accompanied her?
Chārudatta. [Aside.] Shall I say that she went unobserved?
Gild-warden and Clerk. Speak, sir.
Chārudatta. She went home. What more shall I say?
Sansthānaka. She was enticed into my old garden Pushpakaranda, and was shtrangled for her money. Now will you shay that she went home?
Chārudatta. Man, you are crazy.
