{"id":1733,"date":"2013-07-13T01:36:50","date_gmt":"2013-07-13T01:36:50","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/localhost\/?p=1733"},"modified":"2013-07-13T01:36:50","modified_gmt":"2013-07-13T01:36:50","slug":"10-the-prince-of-edur-act-i-vol-03-04-collected-plays-and-stories","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/01-works-of-sri-aurobindo\/03-cwsa\/03-04-collected-plays-and-stories\/10-the-prince-of-edur-act-i-vol-03-04-collected-plays-and-stories","title":{"rendered":"-10_The Prince of Edur- Act – I.htm"},"content":{"rendered":"
\n\n\n
\n

 <\/td>\n

\n
\n<\/p>\n

\nThe Prince of Edur<\/b><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\n

\nPersons of the Drama<\/b><\/p>\n

 <\/font><\/p>\n

R<\/font>ANA<\/font>
\nC<\/font>URRAN<\/font>, Prince of Edur, of the Rahtore clan.<\/p>\n

V<\/font>ISALDEO<\/font>, a Brahmin, his minister; formerly in the service of the Gehlote Prince of Edur.<\/p>\n

H<\/font>ARIPAL<\/font>, a Rajpoot noble, General of Edur; formerly in the service of the Gehlote Prince.<\/p>\n

B<\/font>APPA<\/font>, son of the late Gehlote Prince of Edur, in refuge among the Bheels.<\/font><\/p>\n

\n<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

K<\/font>ODAL<\/font>, a young Bheel, foster-brother and lieutenant of Bappa.<\/p>\n

T<\/font>ORAMAN<\/font>, Prince of Cashmere.<\/p>\n

C<\/font>ANACA<\/font>, the King’s jester of Cashmere.<\/p>\n

H<\/font>OOSHKA<\/font>, Scythian captain.<\/p>\n

P<\/font>RATAP<\/font>, Rao of Ichalgurh, a Chouhan noble.<\/p>\n

R<\/font>UTTAN<\/font>, his brother.<\/p>\n

A C<\/font>APTAIN<\/font> of Rajpoot lances.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

M<\/font>ENADEVI<\/font>, wife of Curran; a Chouhan princess, sister of the King of Ajmere.<\/p>\n

C<\/font>OMOL<\/font>
\nC<\/font>UMARY<\/font>, daughter of Rana Curran and Menadevi.<\/p>\n

C<\/font>OOMOOD<\/font>
\nC<\/font>UMARY<\/font>, daughter of Rana Curran by a concubine.<\/p>\n

N<\/font>IRMOL<\/font>
\nC<\/font>UMARY<\/font>,
\ndaughter of Haripal, friend of Comol Cumary.<\/p>\n

I<\/font>SHANY<\/font>, a Rajpoot maiden, in attendance on Comol Cumary.<\/p>\n

\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\nAct I<\/b><\/p>\n

 <\/font><\/p>\n

\n
\nThe Palace in Edur. The forests about Dongurh.<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\nScene 1<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\nThe Palace in Edur.<\/i><\/p>\n

\nRana Curran, Visaldeo.<\/i><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

C<\/font>URRAN<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

He is at Deesa then?<\/font><\/p>\n

\n<\/p>\n

V<\/font>ISALDEO<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

So he has written.<\/font><\/p>\n

\n<\/p>\n

C<\/font>URRAN<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Send out a troop for escort, yielding him<\/p>\n

Such honours as his mighty birth demands.<\/p>\n

Let him be lodged for what he is, a Prince<\/p>\n

Among the mightiest.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

V<\/font>ISALDEO<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

You have chosen then?<\/p>\n

You’ll give your daughter, King, to this Cashmerian?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

C<\/font>URRAN<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

My brother from Ajmere writes to forbid me,<\/p>\n

Because he’s Scythian, therefore barbarous.<\/p>\n

A Scythian! He is Cashmere’s mighty lord<\/p>\n

Who stretches out from those proud Himalayan hills<\/p>\n

His giant arms to embrace the North.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 849<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

V<\/span><\/font>ISALDEO<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

But still<\/p>\n

A Scythian.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

C<\/font>URRAN<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Whom many Aryan monarchs crouch to appease<\/p>\n

When he but shakes his warlike lance. A soldier<\/p>\n

And conqueror, \u2014  what has the earth more noble?<\/p>\n

And he is of the great Cushanian stock<\/p>\n

That for these centuries bestride the hills<\/p>\n

Against all comers. World-renowned Asoca<\/p>\n

Who dominated half our kingly East,<\/p>\n

Sprang from a mongrel root.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

V<\/font>ISALDEO<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Rana, you’ll wed<\/p>\n

Your daughter to Prince Toraman?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

C<\/font>URRAN<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

I’m troubled<\/p>\n

By Ajmere’s strong persistence. He controls<\/p>\n

Our Rajpoot world and it were madly done<\/p>\n

To offend him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

V<\/font>ISALDEO<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

That’s soon avoided. Send your daughter out<\/p>\n

To your strong fort among the wooded hills,<\/p>\n

Dongurh; there while she walks among the trees,<\/p>\n

Let the Cashmerian snatch her to his saddle<\/p>\n

In the old princely way. You have your will<\/p>\n

And the rash Chouhan has his answer.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

C<\/font>URRAN<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Visaldeo,<\/p>\n

You are a counsellor! Call the queen hither;<\/p>\n

I’ll speak to her.<\/p>\n

\nExit Visaldeo.<\/i><\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 850<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n

O excellently counselled!<\/p>\n

What is it but a daughter? One mere girl<\/p>\n

And in exchange an emperor for my ally.<\/p>\n

It must be done.<\/p>\n

\nEnter Menadevi and Visaldeo.<\/i><\/p>\n

M<\/font>ENADEVI<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

You sent for me, my lord?<\/font><\/p>\n

\n<\/p>\n

C<\/font>URRAN<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

How many summers might our daughter count,<\/p>\n

Mena?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

M<\/font>ENADEVI<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Sixteen, my lord.<\/font><\/p>\n

\n<\/p>\n

C<\/font>URRAN<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

She flowers apace<\/p>\n

And like a rose in bloom expects the breeze<\/p>\n

With blushing petals. We can delay no longer<\/p>\n

Her nuptial rites.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

M<\/font>ENADEVI<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

The Rao of Ichalgurh<\/p>\n

Desires her. He’s a warrior and a Chouhan.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

C<\/font>URRAN<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

A petty baron! O my dearest lady,<\/p>\n

Rate not your child so low. Her rumoured charm<\/p>\n

Has brought an emperor posting from the north<\/p>\n

To woo her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

M<\/font>ENADEVI<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Give me the noble Rajpoot blood,<\/p>\n

I ask no more.<\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 851<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n

C<\/font>URRAN<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

The son of great Cashmere<\/p>\n

Journeys to Edur for her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

M<\/font>ENADEVI<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Your royal will<\/p>\n

Rules her and me. And yet, my lord, a child<\/p>\n

Of Rajpoot princes might be better mated;<\/p>\n

So much I’ll say.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

C<\/font>URRAN<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

You are your brother’s sister.<\/p>\n

He says he will not have a Scythian wed her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

M<\/font>ENADEVI<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

He cherishes the lofty Chouhan pride.<\/p>\n

You know, my lord, we hold a Rajpoot soldier<\/p>\n

Without estate or purse deserves a queen<\/p>\n

More than a crowned barbarian.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

C<\/font>URRAN<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

You are all<\/p>\n

As narrow as the glens where you were born<\/p>\n

And live immured. No arrogance can match<\/p>\n

The penniless pride of mountaineers who never<\/p>\n

Have seen the various world beyond their hills.<\/p>\n

Your petty baron who controls three rocks<\/p>\n

For all his heritage, exalts himself<\/p>\n

O’er monarchs in whose wide domains his holding’s<\/p>\n

An ant-hill, and prefers his petty line<\/p>\n

To their high dynasties; \u2014  as if a mountain tarn<\/p>\n

Should think itself more noble than the sea<\/p>\n

To which so many giant floods converge.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

M<\/font>ENADEVI<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Our tarns are pure at least, if small, they hold<\/p>\n

Sweet water only; but your seas are brackish.<\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 852<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n

C<\/font>URRAN<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Well, well; tomorrow send your little princess<\/p>\n

To Dongurh, there to dwell till we decide<\/p>\n

If great Cashmere shall have her. Visaldeo,<\/p>\n

Give ten good lances for her escort.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

M<\/font>ENADEVI<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Only ten!<\/p>\n

It is not safe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

V<\/font>ISALDEO<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Rana, the queen is right.<\/p>\n

The Bheels are out among the hills; they have<\/p>\n

A new and daring leader and beset<\/p>\n

All wayside wealth with swarms of humming arrows.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

C<\/font>URRAN<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

The lord of Edur should not fear such rude<\/p>\n

And paltry caterans. When they see our banner<\/p>\n

Advancing o’er the rocks, they will avoid<\/p>\n

Its peril. Or if there’s danger, take the road<\/p>\n

That skirts the hills. Ten lances, Visaldeo!<\/p>\n

\nExit.<\/i><\/p>\n

M<\/font>ENADEVI<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

My blood shall never mingle with the Scythian.<\/p>\n

I am a Chouhan first and next your wife,<\/p>\n

Edur. What means this move to Dongurh, Visaldeo?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

V<\/font>ISALDEO <\/font>(as if to himself <\/i>)<\/p>\n

Ten lances at her side! It were quite easy<\/p>\n

To take her from them, even for a Cashmerian.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

M<\/font>ENADEVI<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

I understand. The whole of Rajasthan<\/p>\n

Would cry out upon Edur, were this marriage<\/p>\n

Planned openly to soil their ancient purity.<\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 853<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n

The means to check this shame?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

V<\/font>ISALDEO<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Lady, I am<\/p>\n

The Rana’s faithful servant.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

M<\/font>ENADEVI<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

So remain.<\/p>\n

I’ll send a horse to Ichalgurh this hour.<\/p>\n

There may be swifter snatchers than the Scythian.<\/p>\n

\nExit.<\/i><\/p>\n

V<\/font>ISALDEO<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Or swifter even than any in Ichalgurh.<\/p>\n

I too have tidings to send hastily.<\/p>\n

\nExit.<\/i><\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 854<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\nScene
\n2<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n

\n <\/font><\/p>\n

\nThe women’s apartments in the Palace at Edur.<\/i><\/p>\n

\nComol Cumary, Coomood Cumary.<\/i><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

C<\/font>OMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Tomorrow, Coomood, is the feast of May.<\/font><\/p>\n

\n<\/p>\n

C<\/font>OOMOOD<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Sweetheart, I wish it were the feast of Will.<\/p>\n

I know what I would will for you.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

C<\/font>OMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

What, Coomood?<\/font><\/p>\n

\n<\/p>\n

C<\/font>OOMOOD<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

A better husband than your father’ll give you.<\/font><\/p>\n

\n<\/p>\n

C<\/font>OMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

You mean the Scythian? I will not believe<\/p>\n

That it can happen. My father’s heart is royal;<\/p>\n

The blood that throbs through it he drew from veins<\/p>\n

Of Rajpoot mothers.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

C<\/font>OOMOOD<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

But the brain’s too politic.<\/p>\n

A merchant’s mind into his princely skull<\/p>\n

Slipped in by some mischance, and it will sell you<\/p>\n

In spite of all the royal heart can say.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

C<\/font>OMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

He is our father, therefore blame him not.<\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 855<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n

C<\/font>OOMOOD<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

I blame his brain, not him. Sweetheart, remember,<\/p>\n

Whomever you may marry, I shall claim<\/p>\n

Half of your husband.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

C<\/font>OMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

If’t be the Scythian, you may have<\/p>\n

The whole uncouth barbarian with Cashmere<\/p>\n

In the bad bargain.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

C<\/font>OOMOOD<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

We will not let him have you.<\/p>\n

We’ll find a mantra that shall call Urjoon<\/p>\n

From Eden’s groves to wed you; great Dushyanta<\/p>\n

Shall leave Shacoontala for these wide eyes<\/p>\n

Which you have stolen from the antelope<\/p>\n

To gaze men’s hearts out of their bodies with,<\/p>\n

You lovely sorceress; or we’ll have Udaian<\/p>\n

To ravish you into his rushing car,<\/p>\n

Edur’s Vasavadutta. We’ll bring crowding<\/p>\n

The heroes of romance out of the past<\/p>\n

For you to choose from, sweet, and not a Scythian<\/p>\n

In all their splendid ranks.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

C<\/font>OMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

But my poor Coomood,<\/p>\n

Your hero of romance will never look at you,<\/p>\n

Finding my antelope eyes so beautiful.<\/p>\n

What will you do then?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

C<\/font>OOMOOD<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

I will marry him<\/p>\n

By sleight of hand and never let him know.<\/p>\n

For when the nuptial fire is lit and when<\/p>\n

The nuptial bond is tied, I’ll slip my raiment’s hem<\/p>\n

Into the knot that weds your marriage robes<\/p>\n

And take the seven paces with you both<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 856<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n

Weaving my life into one piece with yours<\/p>\n

For ever.<\/p>\n

\nEnter Nirmol Cumary.<\/i><\/p>\n

N<\/font>IRMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

News, princesses, news! What will you give me for a sackful of news?<\/font><\/p>\n

\n<\/p>\n

C<\/font>OMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Two switches and a
\nbirch-rod. A backful for your sackful!<\/font><\/p>\n

\n<\/p>\n

N<\/font>IRMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

I will empty my sack first, if only to shame you for your base ingratitude. To begin with what will please you best, Prince Toraman is arrived. I hear he is coming to see and approve of you before he makes the venture; it is the Scythian custom.<\/font><\/p>\n

\n<\/p>\n

C<\/font>OMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

He shall not have his Scythian custom. In India it is we girls who have the right of choice.<\/font><\/p>\n

\n<\/p>\n

N<\/font>IRMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

He will not listen. These Scythians stick to their customs as if it were their skin; they will even wear their sheepskins in midsummer in Agra.<\/font><\/p>\n

\n<\/p>\n

C<\/font>OMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Then, Nirmol, we will show you to him for the Princess Comol Cumary and marry you off into the mountains. Would you not love to be the Queen of Cashmere? <\/font><\/p>\n

\n<\/p>\n

N<\/font>IRMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

I would not greatly mind. They say he is big as a Polar bear and has the sweetest little pugnose and cheeks like two fat pouches. They say too he carries a knout in his hand with which he will touch up the bride during the ceremony as a promise of what <\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 857<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n

she may expect hereafter; it is the Scythian custom. Oh, I envy you, Princess.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

C<\/font>OMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Nirmol, in sober earnest I will beat you.<\/font><\/p>\n

\n<\/p>\n

N<\/font>IRMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Strike but hear! For I have still news in my sack. You must gather your traps; we are to start for Dongurh in an hour. What, have I
\nmade your eyes smile at last? <\/font><\/p>\n

\n<\/p>\n

C<\/font>OMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

To Dongurh! Truth, Nirmol.<\/font><\/p>\n

\n<\/p>\n

N<\/font>IRMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Beat me in earnest, if it is not. Visaldeo himself told me.<\/font><\/p>\n

\n<\/p>\n

C<\/font>OMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

To Dongurh! To the woods! It is three years<\/p>\n

Since I was there. I wonder whether now<\/p>\n

The woodland flowers into a sudden blush<\/p>\n

Crimsoning at the sweet approach of Spring<\/p>\n

As once it did against that mooned white<\/p>\n

Of myriad blossoms. We shall feel again,<\/p>\n

Coomood, the mountain breezes kiss our cheeks<\/p>\n

Standing on treeless ridges and behold<\/p>\n

The valleys wind unnoticeably below<\/p>\n

In threads of green.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

C<\/font>OOMOOD<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

It is the feast of May.<\/p>\n

Shall we not dance upon the wind-blown peaks<\/p>\n

And put the peacock’s feather in our hair<\/p>\n

And think we are in Brindavon the green?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

N<\/font>IRMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

With a
\nsnub-nosed Scythian Krishna to lead the dance. But they<\/p>\n

say Krishna was neither Scythian nor Rajpoot but a Bheel. Well,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 858<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n

\nthere is another Krishna of that breed out who will make eighth-century Rookminnies of you if you dance too far into the forest,
\nsweethearts.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

C<\/font>OOMOOD<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

You mean this boy-captain of robbers who makes such a noise
\nin our little world? Bappa they call him, do they not?<\/font><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\nN<\/font><\/font>IRMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

‘Tis some such congregation of consonants. Now which sort of
\nhusband would the most modern taste approve? \u2014  a coal-black
\nsturdy young Bheel, his face as rugged as Rajpootana, or a red
\nand white snub-nosed Scythian with two prosperous purses for
\nhis cheeks. There’s a problem in aesthetics for you, Coomood.
\n<\/font><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\nC<\/font><\/font>OMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

A barbarous emperor or a hillside thief<\/p>\n

\nAre equals in a Rajpoot maiden’s eyes.<\/p>\n

Yon mountain-peak or some base valley clod,<\/p>\n

\n‘Tis one to the heaven-sailing star above<\/p>\n

That scorns their lowness.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

NIRMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Yes, but housed with the emperor the dishonour is lapped in
\ncloth of gold; on the thief’s hillside it is black, naked and rough, its primitive and savage reality. To most women the difference
\nwould be great.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

COMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Not to me. I wonder they suffer this mountain springald to presume so long.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

NIRMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Why, they sent out a captain lately to catch him, but he came
\nback a head shorter than he went. But how do you fancy my news, sweethearts?<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 859<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n

COMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

What, is your sack empty?<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

NIRMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Your kingly father was the last to stalk out of it. I expect him here to finish my story.<\/p>\n

\nEnter Rana Curran, Menadevi and Visaldeo.<\/i><\/p>\n

CURRAN<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Maid Comol, are you ready yet for Dongurh?<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

COMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

I heard of it this moment, sir.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

CURRAN<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Make ready.<\/p>\n

Prince Toraman arrives. You blush, my lily?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MENADEVI<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

There is a maiden’s blush of bashfulness,<\/p>\n

\nBut there’s her blush of shame too when her cheeks<\/p>\n

Offended scorn a suitor far too base<\/p>\n

\nShould bring such noble blood to flush their whiteness.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

CURRAN<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Maid Comol, which was yours?<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

COMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

I would learn that,<\/p>\n

Father, from your high sovereign will. I am not<\/p>\n

\nThe mistress of my blushes.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

CURRAN<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Keep them for him,<\/p>\n

Comol, for whom their sweetness was created.<\/p>\n

\nHearken, my little one, you are marked out<\/p>\n

To reign an empress; ’tis the stars decree it<\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 860<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n

That in their calm irrevocable round<\/p>\n

\nWeave all our fates. Then shrink not if thou hearest<\/p>\n

The noise of battle round thy palanquin<\/p>\n

\nFilling the hills, nor fear its rude event,<\/p>\n

But veil thy cheeks in scarlet to receive<\/p>\n

\nThy warlike husband.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

COMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Father!<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

CURRAN<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

It is so.<\/p>\n

Thou journeyest not to Dongurh but thy nuptials.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

COMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

With Toraman?<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

CURRAN<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

With one whose lofty doom<\/p>\n

\nIs empire. Keep this in thy joyous bosom<\/p>\n

Throbbing in a sweet secrecy. Farewell.<\/p>\n

\nWhen we foregather next, I hope to greet<\/p>\n

My little empress.<\/p>\n

\nExit.<\/i><\/p>\n

MENADEVI<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Comol, what said he to thee?<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

COMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

What I unwillingly have heard. Mother,<\/p>\n

Must I be mated to a barbarous stock?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MENADEVI<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

No, child. When you shall hear the trumpet’s din<\/p>\n

\nOr clash of blades, think not ’tis Toraman,<\/p>\n

But your dear mother’s care to save her child<\/p>\n

\nFrom shameful mating. Little sweetheart, go.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 861<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n

\nWhen I shall meet you next, you’ll shine a flower<\/p>\n

\nUpon the proudest crest in Rajasthan,<\/p>\n

No Scythian’s portion. Visaldeo, prepare<\/p>\n

\nHer going quickly.<\/p>\n

\nExit.<\/i><\/p>\n

COMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

What plots surround me? Nirmol,<\/p>\n

\nGive me my sword with me. I’ll have a friend<\/p>\n

To help me, should the world go wrong.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VISALDEO<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Our self,<\/p>\n

\nLady, is our best helper.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

COMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

I believe it.<\/p>\n

Which path’s resolved on?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VISALDEO<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

‘Tis the valley road<\/p>\n

\nThat clings to the deep bases of the hills.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

COMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

‘Tis not the shortest.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

VISALDEO<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

The easiest, \u2014  to Cashmere.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

COMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

The other’s safer then for Dongurh.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

VISALDEO<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

At least<\/p>\n

‘Tis green and beautiful, and love may walk there<\/p>\n

\nUnhindered.<\/p>\n

\nExit.<\/i><\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 862<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n

COMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Thou seemst to be my friend,<\/p>\n

But I’ll believe myself and no one else<\/p>\n

\nExcept my sword whose sharpness I can trust<\/p>\n

Not to betray me. Come, girls, make we ready<\/p>\n

\nFor this planned fateful journey.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

COOMOOD<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Let them keep<\/p>\n

Our palanquins together. One fate for both,<\/p>\n

\nSweetheart.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

COMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

If we must marry Toraman,<\/p>\n

Coomood, it shall be in that shadowy country.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

NIRMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Where, I hope, justice will have set right the balance between
\nhis nose and his cheeks. Girls, we are the prizes of this handicap and I am impatient to know which jockey wins. <\/p>\n

\nExeunt.<\/i><\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 863<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

\nScene
\n3<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n

\n <\/font><\/p>\n

\nThe forest near Dongurh.<\/i><\/p>\n

\nBappa, Sungram, Prithuraj.<\/i><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

BAPPA<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

It is the secret friend from whom in childhood<\/p>\n

\nI learned to wing my mounting thoughts aloft<\/p>\n

High as an eagle’s flight. I know the hand,<\/p>\n

\nThough yet his name is hid from me.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

SUNGRAM<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Let’s hear<\/p>\n

The very wording.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

BAPPA<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

“To the Sun’s child, from Edur.<\/p>\n

\nComol Cumary, Edur’s princess, goes<\/p>\n

With her fair sister and a knot of lances<\/p>\n

\nTo Dongurh. Bappa, young lion of the hills,<\/p>\n

Be as the lion in thy ranging; prey<\/p>\n

\nUpon earth’s mightiest, think her princesses<\/p>\n

Meant only for thy spoil and serving-girls,<\/p>\n

\nHer kings thy subjects and her lands thy prey.<\/p>\n

Dare greatly and thou shalt be great; despise<\/p>\n

\nApparent death and from his lifted hand<\/p>\n

Of menace pluck thy royal destinies<\/p>\n

\nBy warlike violence. Thus thy fathers did<\/p>\n

From whose great blood thou springest, child of Kings.<\/p>\n

\nThy friend in Edur.”<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

SUNGRAM<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Writes he that? The child of Kings!<\/p>\n

<p align="center" style="text-indent: 0pt; line-height: 150%; margin-left: 0pt; margin-right: 0pt; margin-top: 0; <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

<p align="center" style="text-indent: 0pt; line-height: 150%; margin-left: 0pt; margin-right: 0pt; margin-top: 0; <\/p>\n

\n
\nPage \u2013 864<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n

He never spoke so plainly of your birth<\/p>\n

\nTill now.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

PRITHURAJ<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

A kindling hint to fire our blood!<\/p>\n

Two princesses and only a knot of swords<\/p>\n

\nFor escort? The gods themselves arrange this for us.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

SUNGRAM<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Bappa, you are resolved to court this peril?<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

PRITHURAJ<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Doubt you? Think how ’twill help our treasury.<\/p>\n

The palanquins alone must be a mint<\/p>\n

\nOf money and the girls’ rich ornaments<\/p>\n

Purchase half Rajasthan.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

SUNGRAM<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

The immediate gain’s<\/p>\n

\nPrincely, nor the mere capture perilous.<\/p>\n

\nBut afterwards the armed wrath of Edur<\/p>\n

Descends upon us in a thunder and whirlwind.<\/p>\n

\nAre we yet strong enough to bear the shock?<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

PRITHURAJ<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Why, let it come. I shall rejoice to feel<\/p>\n

The true and dangerous bite of war at last,<\/p>\n

\nNot always play the mountain cateran’s part,<\/p>\n

To skulk among the hills and only assail<\/p>\n

\nThe weak and timid, or butcher distant force<\/p>\n

With arrows. I long for open shocks of fight<\/p>\n

\nAnd glorious odds and all the world for audience.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

BAPPA<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Sungram, I do not rashly take this step,<\/p>\n

But with fixed policy. Unless we break<\/p>\n

\nEdur’s supreme contempt for our annoyance,<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 865<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n

\nHow can we bring him to the difficult hills?<\/p>\n

\nSo must we take the open where our Bheels<\/p>\n

\nWill scatter from the massed Rajpoot swords<\/p>\n

Nor face their charging horsemen. But if we capture<\/p>\n

\nTheir princess, inconsiderate rage will hurl them<\/p>\n

Into our very fastnesses to wear<\/p>\n

\nTheir strength out under our shafts. Then will I seize<\/p>\n

At the right moment, they being few and weary,<\/p>\n

\nEdur by force or guile and hold it fast<\/p>\n

Though all the warlike world come up against me.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

SUNGRAM<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

With Bheels?<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

BAPPA<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

I will invite all Rajpoot swords<\/p>\n

\nThat now are masterless and men exiled,<\/p>\n

And desperate fortunes. So the iron hands<\/p>\n

\nJoin us and the adventurous hearts, to build<\/p>\n

A modern seat of empire; \u2014  minds like Sungram,<\/p>\n

\nWise to forecast and bold to execute,<\/p>\n

Heroes like Prithuraj, who know not fear<\/p>\n

\nNor put a limit to their vaulting thoughts<\/p>\n

Save death or unforgettable renown,<\/p>\n

\nThe Rajpoot’s choice. Are we not strong enough?<\/p>\n

We have a thousand hardy Bheels, expert<\/p>\n

\nIn mountain warfare, swift unerring bowmen;<\/p>\n

We have ourselves to lead them, each worth thousands,<\/p>\n

\nSheva Ekling above us and in our hands<\/p>\n

Our destiny and our swords.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

SUNGRAM<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

They are enough.<\/p>\n

\nEnter Kodal.<\/i><\/p>\n

KODAL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Bappa, our scouts have come in. The prey is in the toils.<\/p>\n

<p align="center" style="text-indent: 0pt; line-height: 150%; margin-left: 0pt; margin-right: 0pt; margin-top: 0; <\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 866<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n

BAPPA<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

How many are they, Kodal?<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

KODAL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Merely ten lances. The servants and women they have sent round by the lower road; the escort with four palanquins come up
\nthrough the hills. They have run their heads into the noose. We will draw it tight, Bappa, and choke them.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

BAPPA<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Is their escape<\/p>\n

\nImpossible?<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

SUNGRAM<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Bappa, a hundred Bheels surround the pass<\/p>\n

By which alone they can return. Myself<\/p>\n

\nHave posted them.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

BAPPA<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Beside the waterfall<\/p>\n

Surround them, Sungram. Kodal, let there be<\/p>\n

\nNo random shafts to imperil by mischance<\/p>\n

Our lovely booty.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

KODAL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Trust me for that, Bappa. We’ll shoot through the twenty eye-
\nballs of them and never even touch the white. Ten lances they are and ten arrows will stretch them flat; there shall be nothing left
\nto be done but the burning. If I cannot do this, I am no Bheel, no Kodal and no foster-brother of Bappa. <\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

BAPPA<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Economise our strength. I will not lose<\/p>\n

\nA single man over this easy capture.<\/p>\n

You’re captain, Sungram.<\/p>\n

\nExeunt Sungram and Kodal.<\/i><\/p>\n

Prithuraj, my friend.<\/p>\n

\nToday begins our steep ascent to greatness.<\/p>\n

\nExeunt.<\/i><\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 867<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

\nScene
\n4<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n

\n <\/font><\/p>\n

\nThe forest near Dongurh. By the waterfall.<\/i><\/p>\n

\nEnter Captain and soldiers escorting Comol Cumary, Coomood, Nirmol and Ishany in palanquins.<\/i><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

ISHANY<\/font> (from her palanquin<\/i>)<\/p>\n

\nSet down the palanquins. Captain, make void<\/p>\n

This region; here the princess would repose<\/p>\n

\nBeside the murmuring waterfall awhile<\/p>\n

And breathe into her heart the winds of Dongurh.<\/p>\n

\nExit Captain with soldiers and palanquin-<\/i><\/p>\n

\nbearers. The girls leave their palanquins.<\/i><\/p>\n

COMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Coomood, this is the waterfall we loved<\/p>\n

\nTo lean by, singing to the lyre the deeds<\/p>\n

Our fathers wrought or listening silently<\/p>\n

\nIts soft continuous roar. Beyond that bend<\/p>\n

We shall see Dongurh, \u2014  Dongurh, our delight<\/p>\n

\nWhere we were children, Coomood.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

COOMOOD<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Comol, our tree’s<\/p>\n

All scarlet, as if splashed with crimson fire,<\/p>\n

\nJust as of old.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

COMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

O it is Spring, and this<\/p>\n

Is Dongurh.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

ISHANY<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Girls, we must not linger long.<\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 868<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n

Our Scythian, missing us, may take the hills.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

NIRMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Purse-cheeks? Oh, he has lifted Mera the servant-girl to his
\nsaddle-bow by now and is garlanding her Queen of Cashmere. I wish I were there to be bridesmaid.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

COMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

That was a sweet touch of thine, Nirmol. But the child deserves
\nher promotion; she has served me willingly. A Scythian throne is no great  wages for service to a Rajpoot princess.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

COOMOOD<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

How the hill gives you back your laughter, repeating<\/p>\n

\nIts sweetness with delight, as if it had a soul<\/p>\n

To love you.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

COMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

We have shaken them off prettily by turning away through the
\nhills. Alas! my royal father will not greet his little empress this journey, nor my lady mother scent her blossom on a Rajpoot
\ncrest. They must even put up with their poor simple Comol Cumary just as she was, \u2014  (aside<\/i>) and as she will be until her
\nheart finds its mate.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

NIRMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

It is a sin, I tell you, Comol; I am mad when I think of it. Why, I came out to be abducted; I did not come for a quiet stroll through
\nthe woodlands. But I have still hopes of our Bheel cateran, our tangle-locked Krishna of the hill-sides; surely he will not be so
\nungallant as to let such sweet booty pass through his kingdom ungathered.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

COMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

I would gladly see this same stripling and talk to him face to
\nface who sets his Bheel arrows against our Rajpoot swords. He  should be a man at least, no Scythian Toraman. <\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 869<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n

ISHANY<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

The presumptuous savage! it will earn him a stake yet for his last session. Were I a man, I would burn these wasps from their
\nnest and catch and crush them in my mailed gauntlet as they buzzed out into the open.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\nSHOUTS OUTSIDE<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Bappa! Bappa! Ho Sheva Ekling!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\nCAPTAIN<\/font>
\n(shouting within<\/i>)<\/p>\n

Lances, lances, Rajpoots! Bearers, to the palanquins!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

COMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Bappa!<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nNIRMOL<\/font> (laughing<\/i>)<\/p>\n

You’ll have that talk with Bappa yet,<\/p>\n

\nComol.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

COOMOOD<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Oh, let us flee! They swarm towards us.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I<\/font>SHANY<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Stand firm! Our gallant lances soon will prick<\/p>\n

These bold hill-foxes to their lairs. Stand firm!<\/p>\n

\nWe should but fly into the mouth of danger.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

C<\/font><\/font>OMOL<\/font> (climbing on to a rock<\/i>)<\/font><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\nYou Gods! our Rajpoots all are overwhelmed<\/p>\n

Before they used their weapons. What next, Ishany?<\/p>\n

\nShall we sit still to be made prisoners?<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

ISHANY<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Get swiftly to your palanquin. The bearers<\/p>\n

Run hither. Flee towards the valley road!<\/p>\n

\nIt may be that the swords of Ichalgurh<\/p>\n

Range there already.<\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 870<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n

COMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Shall I escape alone?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

ISHANY<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Ah, save the glory of Edur from disgrace<\/p>\n

Of savage handling!<\/p>\n

\nEnter the palanquin-bearers fleeing.<\/i><\/p>\n

Halt! Take your princess, men,<\/p>\n

\nAnd flee with her into the valley road.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

F<\/font>IRST BEARER<\/p>\n

<\/font>
\n <\/p>\n

\nThe funeral fire in the mouth of your princess! Every man save himself.<\/p>\n

\nExit with most of the bearers.<\/i><\/p>\n

S<\/font>ECOND BEARER<\/p>\n

<\/font>
\n <\/p>\n

\nHalt, halt! We have eaten and shall we not pay for the salt? Yes, even with our blood. We four will take her, if we are not cut into 
\npieces first. Into the palanquin, lady. <\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

NIRMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Quick, Comol! or are you longing for your palaver with Tangle-locks?<\/p>\n

\nComol enters the palanquin.<\/i><\/p>\n

COOMOOD<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

What will become of us?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

NIRMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

We shall become<\/p>\n

Bheel housewives. After all, a Scythian throne<\/p>\n

\nWas better.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

ISHANY<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

We have our weapons to befriend us yet.<\/p>\n

Coomood, look not so pale.<\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 871<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n

NIRMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

See, see, Ishany!<\/p>\n

The Bheels are leaping down upon our rear.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

ISHANY<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Quick, bearers, bearers.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

NIRMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

It is too late. She’s taken.<\/p>\n

\nEnter Kodal and Bheels.<\/i><\/p>\n

KODAL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Whoever wants an arrow through his skull, let him move his shanks. Women, you are my brother Bappa’s prisoners; we have 
\nneed of some Rajpoot slave-girls for his kitchen. Take them, my children, and tie them. <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

ISHANY<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Stab any who comes; let not these lumps of dirt<\/p>\n

\nInsult your Rajpoot bodies with their fingers.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

KODAL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Shut your mouth, Rajpootny, or I will skewer your tongue to  your palate with an arrow. Knock their daggers out of their
\nhands.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\nHe lays his hand on Nirmol’s wrist.<\/i><\/p>\n

\nEnter Sungram.<\/i><\/p>\n

NIRMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Off, savage! I will have no tongue-skewerer for my husband.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

SUNGRAM<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Release her, Kodal. Lay not thy Bheel hand<\/p>\n

Upon a Rajpoot virgin. Maiden of Edur,<\/p>\n

\nExpect no outrage. We are men who keep<\/p>\n

Some tincture of manners yet, though savage hills<\/p>\n

\nHarbour us and our looks and deeds are rugged<\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 872<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n

As the wild land we dwell in.<\/p>\n

NIRMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I grant you that. If you are the master-jockey, the winners of this
\nhandicap are no such rank outsiders after all.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

KODAL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Because thou art a Rajpoot, must thou command me? To me, Bheels! Tie up these Rajpootnies hand and leg like so many
\nchickens. Heed not Sungram.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

SUNGRAM<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Mutineer! (draws his sword<\/i>)<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I<\/font>SHANY<\/font>
\n(rapidly approaching the bearers<\/i>)<\/p>\n

\nSlip off unnoticed while they brawl; run, run!<\/p>\n

O save the princess!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\nS<\/font>ECOND BEARER<\/p>\n

<\/font> <\/p>\n

We will do our man’s best. Silently, men, and swiftly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

KODAL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

I boggle not for your sword, Rajpoot. Taste my arrows.<\/p>\n

\nExeunt bearers with Comol in the palanquin.<\/i><\/p>\n

\nBappa and Prithuraj enter from the other side.<\/i><\/p>\n

BAPPA<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Now, what’s the matter, Kodal?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

KODAL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Why, Bappa, these new servant-girls of yours will not come to
\nheel; they talk proudly. Yet Sungram will not let me teach them manners, because, I think, they are his aunt’s cousins.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

BAPPA<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

They shall be obedient, Kodal. Leave them to me.<\/p>\n

\nRemember Sungram’s your commander, brother.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 874<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n

\nWhat, you, a soldier, and break discipline!<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

KODAL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

I am your soldier, Bappa. Sungram, you shall have your Rajpootny. I am a soldier, Rajpoot, and know my duty.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

COOMOOD<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Is this the Bheel? the rough and uncouth outlaw?<\/p>\n

He has a princely bearing. This is surely<\/p>\n

\nA Rajpoot and of a high-seated blood.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

BAPPA<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Which of you’s Edur’s princess? Let her stand<\/p>\n

Before me.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

ISHANY<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Who art thou that speakst so proudly<\/p>\n

\nAs if a Rajpoot princess were thy slave,<\/p>\n

Outlaw?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

BAPPA<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Whoe’er I am, you are in my hands,<\/p>\n

\nMy spoil and captives. Speak, which is the princess?<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

COOMOOD<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Out of thy grip and now almost in safety,<\/p>\n

Chieftain, upon the valley road.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

ISHANY<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Coomood,<\/p>\n

\nThou hast betrayed thy sister by thy folly<\/p>\n

And into vilest shame.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

COOMOOD<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

At least I’ll share it.<\/p>\n

\nExit.<\/i><\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 874<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n

BAPPA<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Ay, so? these maidens are but three. Kodal,<\/p>\n

Four palanquins were on the road, thou toldst me.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

KODAL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Sungram, give thy sword a twist in my guts. While I wrangled
\nwith thee, the best shikar of all has skedaddled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

BAPPA<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Nay, mend it, \u2014  intercept the fugitive.<\/p>\n

\nExit Kodal with Bheels.<\/i><\/p>\n

\nThe other too has fled? but she’s on foot.<\/p>\n

Sungram and Prithuraj, lead these fair captives<\/p>\n

\nInto their prison. I will go and seize<\/p>\n

The runaways.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

ISHANY<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

They are not for thee yet,<\/p>\n

\nHill-cateran, while I stand between.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

PRITHURAJ<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Oh, here’s<\/p>\n

A Rajpoot spirit.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

BAPPA<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Foolish girl, canst thou<\/p>\n

\nOppose the storm-blast with a dove’s white wings?<\/p>\n

\nAs he goes out, she strikes at him with a dagger; he<\/i><\/p>\n

\nseizes her wrist and puts her by. Exit Bappa.<\/i><\/p>\n

PRITHURAJ<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Thou hast a brave but headstrong spirit, maiden.<\/p>\n

It is no savages to whom your Fates<\/p>\n

\nAre kind, but men of Rajpoot blood and nurture.<\/p>\n

Have I your leave?<\/p>\n

\nHe lays his hand on her wrist.<\/i><\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 875<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n

\nI<\/font>SHANY<\/font>
\n(sullenly<\/i>)<\/p>\n

\nYou take it in these hills<\/p>\n

Before the asking, as it seems.<\/p>\n

\n(throwing away her dagger<\/i>)<\/p>\n

Away,<\/p>\n

\nThou useless helper.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

PRITHURAJ<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Very useless, maiden.<\/p>\n

When help is needed, ask it of my sword.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

ISHANY<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

You play the courteous brigand. I shall need<\/p>\n

\nNo help to cast myself out of the reach<\/p>\n

Of villains’ courtesies.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\nP<\/font>RITHURAJ<\/font>
\n(lifting her in his arms<\/i>)<\/p>\n

‘Tis not so easy.<\/p>\n

\nMust I then teach you you’re a prisoner?<\/p>\n

Come, be more patient. You shall yet be glad<\/p>\n

\nOf the sweet violence today we do you.<\/p>\n

\nHe carries her out.<\/i><\/p>\n

SUNGRAM<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Must we follow in the same order?<\/p>\n

NIRMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

By your leave, no. I turn eleven stone or thereabouts.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

SUNGRAM<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

I will not easily believe it. Will you suffer me to test the measure?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

NIRMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

I fear you would prove an unjust balance; so I will even walk, if
\nyou will help me over the rough places. It seems you were not Krishna after all?<\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 876<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n

SUNGRAM<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Why, take me for brother Balaram then. Is not your name Revaty?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

NIRMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

It is too early in the day for a proposal; positively, I will not say
\neither yes or no till the evening. On, Balaram! I follow.<\/p>\n

\nExeunt.<\/i><\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 877<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n

<\/font>
\n <\/p>\n

\nScene
\n5<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n

\n <\/font><\/p>\n

\nThe forest near Dongurh.<\/i><\/p>\n

\nEnter Bearers with Comol Cumary in the palanquin.<\/i><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

S<\/font>ECOND BEARER<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Courage, brothers, courage! We are almost out of the wood.<\/p>\n

\nEnter Kodal, leaping down from a thicket in front.<\/i><\/p>\n

KODAL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

But it is too soon to hollo. Stop, you plain-frogs, or you shall gutturalize your last croak.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

S<\/font>ECOND BEARER<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Put down the palanquin; we are taken. Great emperor of Bheels,
\nbe merciful.<\/font><\/p>\n

\n<\/p>\n

KODAL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Stand still, rogues. I must first haul the runaway Rajpootny out of her
\ndog-box.<\/p>\n

\nAs he approaches the palanquin, the Bearer<\/i><\/p>\n

\nstrikes him down suddenly and throws his bow<\/i><\/p>\n

\nand arrows down the hillside.<\/i><\/p>\n

S<\/font>ECOND BEARER<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Quick! Let us be off while he’s stunned.<\/p>\n

\nEnter Bappa and Coomood, followed by Bheels.<\/i><\/p>\n

BAPPA<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Your sister cannot overstep the pass,<\/p>\n

\nWhich is beset and ambushed. Ho, there, halt!<\/p>\n

Put down the palanquin. Insensate fools,<\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 878<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n

Invite not death.<\/p>\n

\nThe Bheels crowd in and surround the bearers.<\/i><\/p>\n

Is’t Kodal? is he hurt?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\nK<\/font>ODAL<\/font> (rising<\/i>)<\/p>\n

Only stunned, Bappa. The hillside was a trifle harder than my
\nhead. Plain-frog, thou didst that trick handsomely. Give me thy paw, fellow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

BAPPA<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Take these men prisoners and keep them safely.<\/p>\n

\nRemove your men; and, Kodal, guard the road<\/p>\n

Barring all rescue.<\/p>\n

\nExit Kodal and Bheels with the bearers.<\/i><\/p>\n

Princess, take your sister<\/p>\n

\nOut of the palanquin.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

COOMOOD<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Comol, Comol,<\/p>\n

Dear fugitive from fate’s arrest, you’re taken.<\/p>\n

\nCome out.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

COMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

How was it?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

COOMOOD<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

I told him of your flight.<\/p>\n

You’ll leave me all alone to wed a Bheel?<\/p>\n

\nYou’ll break our compact? I have dragged you back<\/p>\n

To servitude.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

COMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Nay, let me see my captor then.<\/p>\n

\nFor if you smile, my Coomood, I must be<\/p>\n

Out of misfortune’s reach.<\/p>\n

\n(leaving the palanquin<\/i>)<\/p>\n

Stand back, sweet. Come,<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 879<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n

\nWhere is this mountain thief who wars with Kings<\/p>\n

\nAnd lays his hands on Edur’s princesses<\/p>\n

As if his trunk were an immortal piece<\/p>\n

\nAnd he unhangable?<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

B<\/font>APPA<\/font> (advancing<\/i>)<\/p>\n

\nI am the man,<\/p>\n

Bappa, the outlaw.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

COMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

This Bappa! this the Bheel?<\/p>\n

\nThey gaze at one another.<\/i><\/p>\n

(smiling<\/i>)<\/p>\n

\nWhy, Coomood, it was Krishna after all.<\/p>\n

Monarch of caterans, I am Edur’s princess,<\/p>\n

\nComol Cumary. Why didst thou desire me?<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

BAPPA<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

O who would not desire thee, glorious virgin?<\/p>\n

Thou art the rose of Rajasthan and I<\/p>\n

\nWill wear thee on my crest.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

COMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

‘Twas prophesied me.<\/p>\n

But roses, King of thieves, have thorns, and see!<\/p>\n

\nI have a sword.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

B<\/font>APPA<\/font> (smiling<\/i>)<\/p>\n

\nThinkst thou that pretty toy<\/p>\n

Will save thee from me?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

COMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

It will do its best.<\/p>\n

\nAnd if you take me still, ’tis at your peril.<\/p>\n

I am a dangerous creature to possess.<\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 880<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n

BAPPA<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

I will embrace the peril as a bride<\/p>\n

If in thy shape it dwell.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

COMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

I swear I pity you.<\/p>\n

\nYou rush upon you know not what. Come now,<\/p>\n

If ’tis a gentle serving-girl you need,<\/p>\n

\nHere is my sister, Coomood, who can cook<\/p>\n

Divinely. Take her. Let me walk on to Dongurh.<\/p>\n

\nYou will regret it, youth.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

COOMOOD<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Believe her not,<\/p>\n

‘Tis she’s a Droupadie; and who possesses her<\/p>\n

\nIs fated to be Emperor of the West.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

BAPPA<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Nay, you are twin sweet roses on one stalk<\/p>\n

And I will pluck you both, O flowers of Edur.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

COMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Why did thy men beset me, mountaineer?<\/p>\n

\nWhat was thy hope?<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

BAPPA<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

At first ’twas policy<\/p>\n

And some desire of thy imperial ransom.<\/p>\n

\nBut now I’ve seen thee, I will hold thee fast.<\/p>\n

Thou art not ransomable.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

COMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

You shall not have me, sir, till you have fought<\/p>\n

\nAnd beaten me. You shall not get me cheaply.<\/p>\n

I am a swashbuckler. Bheel, I can fight.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 882<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n

B<\/font>APPA<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Marvel, thou mayst and with great ease be victor<\/p>\n

If thou but use thy soft and shining eyes<\/p>\n

\nTo dazzle me out of all possibility<\/p>\n

Of sound defence.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

COMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Come, measure swords, on guard!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

BAPPA<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Thou wilt persist then in this pretty folly?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

COMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Halt, halt! I will not fight except on terms.<\/p>\n

\nYou’ll yield yourself my prisoner, Bheel, and free<\/p>\n

My maidens, when I’ve drubbed you handsomely?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

BAPPA<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

If when I’ve conquered, you will utterly<\/p>\n

\nSurrender your sweet self into my arms,<\/p>\n

Princess of Edur.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

COMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Take me if you can.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

BAPPA<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Thus then I take you.<\/p>\n

\n(disarms her<\/i>)<\/p>\n

Rose, where is thy thorn?<\/p>\n

\nNow thou must yield indeed.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

COMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Foul play! foul play!<\/p>\n

It was not fair to rob me of my sword.<\/p>\n

\nCall you this fighting? I’ll not yield myself.<\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 882<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n

BAPPA<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Thou hast no choice.<\/p>\n

\nHe seizes her.<\/i><\/p>\n

COMOL<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

I was not fairly won.<\/p>\n

\nAvaunt! this is mere highway robbery.<\/p>\n

I will not bear it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

BAPPA<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Virgin, this is the moment<\/p>\n

\nFor which thy loveliness was born.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

C<\/font>OMOL<\/font> (faintly<\/i>)<\/p>\n

\nAlas,<\/p>\n

What will you do with me?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

BAPPA<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

I’ll carry thee,<\/p>\n

\nA hungry lion, to my secret lair<\/p>\n

Among the mighty hills, where none shall come<\/p>\n

\nTo save thee from me, O my glorious prey,<\/p>\n

Bright antelope of Edur!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

COOMOOD<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Will you play<\/p>\n

\nWith the young lion, Comol, and chafe his mood?<\/p>\n

Now you are borne down by his heavy mane<\/p>\n

\nAnd lie beneath his huge and tawny chest,<\/p>\n

Trembling and silent.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

BAPPA<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Princess, \u2014 <\/p>\n

COOMOOD<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

May I walk on<\/p>\n

\nTo Dongurh?<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 883<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n

B<\/font>APPA<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

No, thou mayst not. Follow me.<\/p>\n

Hold fast my arm, nor, princess, fear to hang<\/p>\n

\nThy whole slight weight on me up these abrupt<\/p>\n

And breathless places, for the high ascent<\/p>\n

\nIs steep and rough to our uncouth abodes.<\/p>\n

Descent’s for your small feet impossible,<\/p>\n

\nCoomood, from your green prison on the heights.<\/p>\n

There Spring shall wall you in with flowers and make<\/p>\n

\nHer blossoming creepers chains for your bright limbs<\/p>\n

Softly forbidding you, when you’ld escape.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

COOMOOD<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

Comol, tomorrow is the feast of May.<\/p>\n

\nExeunt.<\/i><\/p>\n

<\/font> <\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 884<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/font>
\n<\/span><\/span><\/td>\n

\n

 <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n

<\/span><\/a><\/b><\/font><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

  The Prince of Edur   Persons of the Drama   RANA CURRAN, Prince of Edur, of the Rahtore clan. VISALDEO, a Brahmin, his minister;…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[39],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1733","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-03-04-collected-plays-and-stories","wpcat-39-id"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1733","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1733"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1733\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1733"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1733"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1733"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}