while coupling with its mate) imparted to her a formula of invocation for summoning any of the celestials she liked for giving her children. And the Rishi said, 'Those celestials that thou shalt summon by this mantra shall certainly approach thee and give thee children.' Thus addressed by the Brahmana, the amiable Kunti (Pritha) became curious, and in her maiden-hood summoned the god Arka (Sun). And as soon as she pronounced the mantra, she beheld that effulgent deity—that beholder of everything in the world—approaching her. And beholding that extraordinary sight, the maiden of faultless features was overcome with surprise. But the god Vivaswan approaching her said, 'Here I am, O black-eyed girl! Tell me what I am to do for thee!'
"Hearing this, Kunti said, 'O thou slayer of the foe, a certain Brahmana gave me this formula of invocation as a boon. O lord, I have summoned thee only to test the efficacy of that formula. For this offence I bow to thee for thy grace. A woman, whatever her offence, always deserveth pardon.' Surya replied, 'I know that Durvasa hath granted thee this boon. But cast off thy fears, timid maiden, and grant me thy embraces. Amiable one, my approach cannot be futile. It must bear fruit. Thou hast summoned me. If it be for nothing, it shall certainly be regarded as thy fault.'"
Vaisampayana continued, "Vivaswan thus spake unto her many things with a view to allay her fears. But, O Bharata, the amiable maiden, from modesty and fear of her relatives, consented not to grant his request. And, O thou bull of the Bharata race, Arka addressed her again and said, 'O princess, for my sake, it shall not be sinful in thee to grant my wish,' Thus speaking unto the daughter of Kunti-bhoja, the illustrious Tapana—the illuminator of the universe—gratified his wishes. And from this connection was immediately born a son known all over the world as Karna, encased in natural armour and with face brightened by ear-rings. And the heroic Karna was the first of all wielders of weapons, blessed with good fortune, and endued with the beauty of a celestial child. And after the birth of this child, the illustrious Tapana granted unto Prithā her maiden-hood and ascended to heaven. And the princess
