“Of late, Bhimadhanwa, the brother of the princess, has cast his eyes on her, and persecuted her with his importunities.  Knowing his character, I have great fear lest some day he should use violence towards her.  This is why I am so anxious and uneasy, and have no inclination to join in the festivities.”

Just then I heard the tinkling of anklets, and a young lady came to the place where we were sitting.

On seeing her, my companion started up with great delight, and, taking her by the hand, introduced her to me, saying:  “This is the lady whom I have told you of, dearer to me than life, the thought of separation from whom, through the wickedness of that wretch, burns me like fire, and causes me to suffer misery greater than death.  I have no loyalty or respect towards him, and will lose my life rather than suffer him to accomplish his wicked purpose.”

But she, with tears in her eyes, said:  “O my beloved, do not on my account engage in any act of violence; whatever might be the result, your own life would, certainly be forfeited.  You have continually professed your great love for me; be guided now by my advice.  I am ready to follow you wherever you go; let us then fly from this country, and go where we shall be safe from my persecutor.”

My new acquaintance then turned to me, and said:  “You seem to have been a great traveller; tell us in what country we may be most in safety and best able to live.”

I smiled at this, and answered:  “The world is wide, and there are plenty of countries pleasant to live in; but, after all, one’s own country is the best; why should you banish yourselves?  I think I can contrive some means by which you will be enabled to remain here in safety and comfort.  Wait then a while, and if I cannot do this I will tell you where it will be best for you to go.”

Before we had time to say more, the young girl started up, saying:  “I dare not stay a moment longer.  I have stopped away from my mistress to see you, and now I hear her coming, and must join her directly.  Any one may see the princess at this festival; I hope you will have a good view of her.”  Saying this to me, she ran off, and we both followed her to the place where the princess was to perform—­an open stage which had been erected in the park.

Presently she made her appearance, followed by a train of female attendants, and the moment I saw her my heart was drawn towards her.  I almost doubted whether she were a goddess or a mortal; but when she began to play, I was even more captivated by her graceful movements than I had been by her beauty.