[_He looks before him._] Ah! There he will be found, where the people are thus gathered together. Oh, that this deed of King Aryaka might be crowned with the rescued life of noble Chārudatta! [_He quickens his steps._] Make way, you rascals! [_He discovers Chārudatta. Joyfully._] Is Chārudatta yet living, and Vasantasenā? Truly, our sovereign's wishes are fulfilled. Now, thanks to heaven, from sorrow's shoreless sea I see him saved by her he loved, set free By that sweet bark, that knew her course to steer With virtue's tackle and with goodness' gear. He seems the moon, whose light shines clear at last, When all the sad eclipse is overpast. 48 Yet how shall I approach him, who have so grievously sinned against him? But no! Honesty is always honorable. [_He approaches and folds his hands. Aloud._] O noble Chārudatta! _Chārudatta._ Who are you, sir? [174.13. S. _Sharvilaka._ I forced your house in manner base, And stole the gems there left behind; But though this sin oppress my mind, I throw myself upon your grace. 49 _Chārudatta._ Not so, my friend. Thereby you showed your faith in me. [_He embraces him._] _Sharvilaka._ And one thing more: The very noble Aryaka, To save his family and name, Has slain the wretched Pālaka, A victim at the altar's flame. 50 _Chārudatta._ What say you? _Sharvilaka._ 'T was your cart helped him on his way, Who sought the shelter of your name; He slew King Pālaka to-day, A victim at the altar's flame. 51 _Chārudatta._ Sharvilaka, did you set free that Aryaka, whom Pālaka took from his hamlet, and confined without cause in the tower? _Sharvilaka._ I did. _Chārudatta._ This is indeed most welcome tidings. _Sharvilaka._ Scarcely was your friend Aryaka established in Ujjayinī, when he bestowed upon you the throne of Kushāvatī, on the bank of the Venā. May you graciously receive this first token of his love. [_He turns around._] Come, lead hither that rascal, that villain, the brother-in-law of the king! _Voices behind the scenes._ We will, Sharvilaka. _Sharvilaka._ Sir, King Aryaka declares that he won this kingdom through your virtues, and that you are therefore to have some benefit from it. _Chārudatta._ The kingdom won through my virtues? * * * * * _Voices behind the scenes._ Come on, brother-in-law of the king, and reap the reward of your insolence. [_Enter Sansthānaka, guarded, with his hands tied behind his back._] P. 285.18] _Sansthānaka._ Goodnessh gracious! It came to pass, I ran away Like any ass, and had my day. They drag me round, a prishoner, As if they 'd found a naughty cur. 52