{"id":1747,"date":"2013-07-13T01:37:00","date_gmt":"2013-07-13T01:37:00","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/localhost\/?p=1747"},"modified":"2013-07-13T01:37:00","modified_gmt":"2013-07-13T01:37:00","slug":"06-vasavadutta-act-iii-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\/06-vasavadutta-act-iii-vol-03-04-collected-plays-and-stories","title":{"rendered":"-06_Vasavadutta – Act – III.htm"},"content":{"rendered":"
\n\n\n
\n

 <\/td>\n

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

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

 <\/font><\/p>\n

\nAvunthy. In the palace.<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

\nScene
\n1<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

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

A room in the royal apartments.<\/i><\/p>\n

Mahasegn, Ungarica.<\/i><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MAHASEGN<\/p>\n

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

I conquer still though not with glorious arms.<\/p>\n

He’s seized! the young victorious Vuthsa’s mine,<\/p>\n

A prisoner in my grasp.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

Thou holdst the sun<\/p>\n

Under thy arm-pit as the tailed god did.<\/p>\n

What wilt thou do with it?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MAHASEGN<\/p>\n

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

Make him my moon<\/p>\n

And shine by him upon the eastern night.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

UNGARIKA<\/p>\n

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

Thou canst?<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

MAHASEGN<\/p>\n

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

Loved sceptic of my house, I can.<\/p>\n

What thing desired has long escaped my hands<\/p>\n

Since out of thy dim world I dragged thee conquered<\/p>\n

Into our sun and breeze and azure skies<\/p>\n

By force, my fortune?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 663<\/p>\n

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

\n

UNGARIKA<\/p>\n

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

Yes, by force, but this<\/p>\n

By force thou hast not done. Wilt thou depart<\/p>\n

From thy own nature, Chunda Mahasegn,<\/p>\n

And hop’st for victory?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MAHASEGN<\/p>\n

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

Thou wert my strength, my fortune,<\/p>\n

But never my counsellor! My own mind’s my seer.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

UNGARIKA<\/p>\n

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

I do not counsel, but obey and watch.<\/p>\n

That is enough for me in your strange world,<\/p>\n

For in your light I cannot guide myself.<\/p>\n

Man is a creature blinded by the sun<\/p>\n

Who errs by seeing; but the world that to you<\/p>\n

Is darkness, \u2014  they who walk there, they have sight.<\/p>\n

Such am I, for the shades have reared my soul.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MAHASEGN<\/p>\n

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

What dost thou see?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

UNGARIKA<\/p>\n

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

That Vuthsa is too great<\/p>\n

For thy greatness, too cunning for thy cunning. He<\/p>\n

Will bend not to thy pressure.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MAHASEGN<\/p>\n

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

Thou hast bent,<\/p>\n

The Titaness. This is a delicate boy<\/p>\n

Softer than summer dews or like the lily<\/p>\n

That yields to every gentle, insistent wave.<\/p>\n

A hero? yes: all Aryan boys are that.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

UNGARIKA<\/p>\n

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

Thou thinkst thy daughter thy proud fortune’s wave,<\/p>\n

He its bright flower \u2014  a nursling reared by gods<\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 664<\/p>\n

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

\n

Only to be thy servant?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MAHASEGN<\/p>\n

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

Thou hast seen?<\/p>\n

I kept my counsel hidden in my soul.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

UNGARIKA<\/p>\n

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

It is good; it is the thing my heart desires.<\/p>\n

My daughter shall have empire.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MAHASEGN<\/p>\n

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

No, thy son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

UNGARIKA<\/p>\n

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

No matter which. The first man of the age<\/p>\n

Will occupy her heart; the pride and love<\/p>\n

That are her faults will both be satisfied.<\/p>\n

She will be happy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MAHASEGN<\/p>\n

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

Call thy child, my queen.<\/p>\n

For I will teach her what her charm must weave.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

UNGARIKA<\/p>\n

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

Her heart’s her teacher. Call here, Vullabha,<\/p>\n

The princess.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MAHASEGN<\/p>\n

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

O, the heart, it is a danger,<\/p>\n

A madness! Let the thinking mind prevail.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

UNGARIKA<\/p>\n

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

We are women, king.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

MAHASEGN<\/p>\n

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

Be princesses! My daughter<\/p>\n

Has dignity, pride, wisdom, noble hopes;<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 665<\/p>\n

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

\n

\nShe will not act as common natures do.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

UNGARIKA<\/p>\n

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

Love will unseat them all and put them down<\/p>\n

Under his flower-soft feet.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MAHASEGN<\/p>\n

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

Thou hast ever loved<\/p>\n

To oppose my thoughts!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

UNGARIKA<\/p>\n

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

That is our poor revenge<\/p>\n

Who in our acts must needs obey.<\/p>\n

Vasavadutta enters.<\/i><\/p>\n

Let now<\/p>\n

Thy princely cunning teach a woman’s brain<\/p>\n

To use for statecraft’s ends her dearest thoughts.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MAHASEGN<\/p>\n

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

My daughter Vasavadutta, my delight,<\/p>\n

Now is thy hour to pay the long dear debt<\/p>\n

Thou ow’st thy parents by whom thou wast made.<\/p>\n

Vuthsa, Cowsamby’s king, my rival, foe,<\/p>\n

My Fate’s high stumbling-block, captive today<\/p>\n

Is brought to Avunthy. I mean he shall become<\/p>\n

Thy husband, Vasavadutta, and my slave.<\/p>\n

By thee he shall become my subject king.<\/p>\n

Then shall thy father’s fate outleap all bounds,<\/p>\n

Thy house and nation rule the prostrate world.<\/p>\n

This is my will, my daughter; is it thine?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

Father, thy will is mine, as it is fate’s.<\/p>\n

Thou givest me to whom thou wilt; what share<\/p>\n

In this have I except only to obey?<\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 666<\/p>\n

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

\n

MAHASEGN<\/p>\n

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

A greater part which makes thee my ally<\/p>\n

And golden instrument; for thou, my child,<\/p>\n

Must be, who only canst, my living sceptre,<\/p>\n

Thou my ambassador to win his mind<\/p>\n

And thou my viceroy over his subject will.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

Will he submit to this?<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

MAHASEGN<\/p>\n

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

Yes, if thou choose.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

I choose, my father, since it is thy will.<\/p>\n

That thou shouldst rule the world, is my desire;<\/p>\n

My nation’s greatness is my dearest good.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MAHASEGN<\/p>\n

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

Thou hast kept my proudest lessons; lose them not.<\/p>\n

O, thou art not as feebler natures are!<\/p>\n

Thou wilt not put thy own ambitions first,<\/p>\n

Nor justify a blind and clamorous heart.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

My duty to my country and my sire<\/p>\n

Shall lead me.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MAHASEGN<\/p>\n

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

I will not teach thy woman’s brain<\/p>\n

How thou shalt mould this youth, nor warn thy will<\/p>\n

Against the passions of the blood. The heart<\/p>\n

And senses over common women rule;<\/p>\n

Thou hast a mind.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

Father, this is my pride,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 667<\/p>\n

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

\n

\nThat thou ennoblest me to be the engine<\/p>\n

Of thy great fortunes; that alone I am.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MAHASEGN<\/p>\n

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

Thou wilt not yield then to the heart’s desire?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

Let him desire, but I will nothing yield.<\/p>\n

I am thy daughter; greatest kings should sue<\/p>\n

And take my grace as an unhoped-for joy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MAHASEGN<\/p>\n

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

Thou art my pupil; statecraft was not wasted<\/p>\n

Upon thy listening brain. Thou seest, my queen?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

UNGARIKA<\/p>\n

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

As if this babe could understand! Go, go<\/p>\n

And leave me with my child. I will speak to her<\/p>\n

Another language.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MAHASEGN<\/p>\n

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

Breathe no breath against<\/p>\n

My purpose!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

UNGARIKA<\/p>\n

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

Fearst thou that?<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

MAHASEGN<\/p>\n

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

No; speak to her.<\/p>\n

He goes out from the chamber.<\/i><\/p>\n

UNGARICA<\/font> (taking Vasavadutta into her arms<\/i>)<\/p>\n

Rest here, my child, to whom another bosom<\/p>\n

Will soon be refuge. Thou hast heard the King;<\/p>\n

Hear now thy mother. Thou wilt know, my bliss,<\/p>\n

The fiercest sweet ordeal that can seize<\/p>\n

A woman’s heart and body. O my child,<\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 668<\/p>\n

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

\n

Thou wilt house fire, thou wilt see living gods,<\/p>\n

And all thou hast thought and known will melt away<\/p>\n

Into a flame and be reborn. What now<\/p>\n

I speak, thou dost not understand, but wilt<\/p>\n

Before many nights have kept thy sleepless eyes.<\/p>\n

My child, the flower blooms for its flowerhood only,<\/p>\n

To fill the air with fragrance and with bloom,<\/p>\n

And not to make its parent bed more high.<\/p>\n

Not for thy sire thy mother brought thee forth<\/p>\n

But thy own nature’s growth and heart’s delight<\/p>\n

And for a husband and for children born.<\/p>\n

My child, let him who clasps thee be thy god<\/p>\n

That thou mayst be his goddess; make your wedded arms<\/p>\n

Heaven’s fences; let his will be thine and thine<\/p>\n

Be his, his happiness thy regal throne.<\/p>\n

O Vasavadutta, when thy heart awakes<\/p>\n

Thou shalt obey thy sovereign heart, nor yield<\/p>\n

Allegiance to the clear-eyed selfish gods.<\/p>\n

Do now thy father’s will, the god awake<\/p>\n

Shall do his own. Fear not, whatever threatens.<\/p>\n

Thy mother watches over thee, my child.<\/p>\n

She goes out.<\/i><\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

I love her best, but do not understand;<\/p>\n

My mind can always grasp my father’s thoughts.<\/p>\n

If I must wed, it shall be one I rule.<\/p>\n

Vuthsa! Vuthsa Udaian! I have heard<\/p>\n

Only a far-flung name. What is the man?<\/p>\n

A flame? a flower? High like Gopalaca<\/p>\n

Or else some golden-fair and soft-eyed youth?<\/p>\n

I have a fluttering in my heart to know.<\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 669<\/p>\n

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

\n

<\/p>\n

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

\n <\/font><\/p>\n

The same.<\/i><\/p>\n

Mahasegn, Ungarica, Gopalaca, Vuthsa.<\/i><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

GOPALAKA<\/p>\n

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

King of Avunthy, see thy will performed.<\/p>\n

The boy who rivalled thy ripe victor years,<\/p>\n

I bring a captive to thy house.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MAHASEGN<\/p>\n

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

Gopalaca,<\/p>\n

Thou hast done well, thou art indeed my son.<\/p>\n

Vuthsa, \u2014\n<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

Hail, monarch of the West. We have met<\/p>\n

In equal battle; it has pleased me to approach<\/p>\n

Thy greatness otherwise.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MAHASEGN<\/p>\n

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

Pleased thee, vain boy!<\/p>\n

No, but thy fate indignant that thou strov’st<\/p>\n

Against heaven-chosen fortunes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

Think it so.<\/p>\n

I am here. What is thy will with me or wherefore<\/p>\n

Hast thou by violence brought me to thy house?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MAHASEGN<\/p>\n

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

To serve me as earth’s sovereign and thy own<\/p>\n

Assuming my great yoke as all have done<\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 670<\/p>\n

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

\n

From Indus to the South.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

This is thy error.<\/p>\n

Thou hast not great Cowsamby’s monarch here,<\/p>\n

But Vuthsa only, Suthaneka’s son<\/p>\n

Who sprang from sires divine.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MAHASEGN<\/p>\n

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

And where then dwells<\/p>\n

Cowsamby’s youthful majesty, if not<\/p>\n

In thee its golden vessel?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

Where my vacant throne<\/p>\n

In high Cowsamby stands. Thou shouldst know that.<\/p>\n

There is a kingship which exceeds the king.<\/p>\n

For Vuthsa unworthy, Vuthsa captive, slain,<\/p>\n

This is not captive, this cannot be slain.<\/p>\n

It far transcends our petty human forms,<\/p>\n

It is a nation’s greatness. This, O King,<\/p>\n

Was once Parikshith, this Urjoona’s seed,<\/p>\n

Janamejoya, this was Suthaneke,<\/p>\n

This Vuthsa; and when Vuthsa is no more,<\/p>\n

This shall live deathless in a hundred kings.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MAHASEGN<\/p>\n

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

Thou speakest like the unripe boy thou seemst,<\/p>\n

With thoughts high-winging. Grown minds keep to earth’s<\/p>\n

More humble sureness and prefer her touches.<\/p>\n

I am content to have thy gracious body here,<\/p>\n

This earth of kingship; with things sensible<\/p>\n

I deal, for they are pertinent to our days,<\/p>\n

And not with any high and unseen thought.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

My body? deal with it. It is thy slave<\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 671<\/p>\n

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

\n

\nAnd captive by thy choice and by my own.<\/p>\n

What thou canst do with Vuthsa, do, O King;<\/p>\n

In nothing will I pledge Cowsamby’s majesty,<\/p>\n

But Vuthsa is a prisoner in thy hands.<\/p>\n

Him I defend not from thy iron will.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MAHASEGN<\/p>\n

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

My prisoner, thou shalt not so escape<\/p>\n

My purpose.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

I embrace it. If escape<\/p>\n

Were my desire, I should not now be here.<\/p>\n

It is not bars and gates can keep me.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MAHASEGN<\/p>\n

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

But I will give thee other jailors, boy,<\/p>\n

Surer than my armed sentries, against whom<\/p>\n

Thou dar’st not lift thy helpless hands.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

Find such;<\/p>\n

I am satisfied.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MAHASEGN<\/p>\n

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

Grow humbler in thy bearing.<\/p>\n

Be Vuthsa or be great Cowsamby’s king,<\/p>\n

Know thyself only for a captive and a slave.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

I accept thy stern rebuke, as I accept<\/p>\n

Whatever state the wiser gods provide<\/p>\n

And bend my action to their mood and thought.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MAHASEGN<\/p>\n

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

Thou knowst the law of the high sacrifice,<\/p>\n

Where many kings as menials serve the one,<\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 672<\/p>\n

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

\n

And this compelled have many proud lords done<\/p>\n

Whose high beginnings disappear in time.<\/p>\n

Now I will make my throned triumphant days<\/p>\n

A high continual solemn sacrifice<\/p>\n

Of kingship. There shalt thou, great Bharuth’s heir,<\/p>\n

Dwell in my house a royal servitor,<\/p>\n

And as most fitting thy yet tender years,<\/p>\n

My daughter’s serf. She with her handmaidens<\/p>\n

Shall be thy jailors whose firm gracious cordon<\/p>\n

Thy strength disarmed stands helpless to transgress. To this<\/p>\n

Thy pride must, forced, consent.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

Not only consent,<\/p>\n

But welcome with a proud aspiring mind<\/p>\n

Since to be Vasavadutta’s servitor<\/p>\n

Is honour, happiness and fortune’s grace.<\/p>\n

My greatness this shall raise, not cast it down,<\/p>\n

King Mahasegn.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MAHASEGN<\/p>\n

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

Lead now, Gopalaca,<\/p>\n

Thy gift, her servant, to thy sister’s feet.<\/p>\n

He has a music that the gods desire,<\/p>\n

His brush leaves Nature wondering and his song<\/p>\n

The luminous choristers of heaven have taught.<\/p>\n

All this is hers to please her. Boy, thou smilest?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

What thou hast said, is merely truth. And yet<\/p>\n

I smiled to see how strong and arrogant minds<\/p>\n

Think themselves masters of the things they do.<\/p>\n

Gopalaca goes out with Vuthsa<\/i><\/p>\n

towards Vasavadutta’s apartments.<\/i><\/p>\n

MAHASEGN<\/p>\n

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

This is a charming boy, Ungarica,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 673<\/p>\n

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

\n

\nWho vaunts and yields!<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

UNGARIKA<\/p>\n

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

What he has shown thee, King,<\/p>\n

Thou seest.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MAHASEGN<\/p>\n

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

Wilt thou lend next this graceful child,<\/p>\n

Almost a girl in beauty, thoughts profound<\/p>\n

And practised subtleties? I have done well,<\/p>\n

Was deeply inspired.<\/p>\n

He goes out.<\/i><\/p>\n

UNGARIKA<\/p>\n

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

For him and her thou hast.<\/p>\n

Our own ends seeking, Heaven’s ends are served.<\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 674<\/p>\n

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

\n

<\/p>\n

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

\n <\/font><\/p>\n

A room in Vasavadutta’s apartments.<\/i><\/p>\n

Vasavadutta, Munjoolica, Umba.<\/i><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

But hast thou seen him?<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

MUNJOOLICA<\/p>\n

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

Yes!<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

Speak, perverse silence.<\/p>\n

Thou canst chatter when thou wilt.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MUNJOOLICA<\/p>\n

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

What shall I say<\/p>\n

Except that thou art always fortunate.<\/p>\n

Since first thy soft feet moved upon our earth,<\/p>\n

O living Luxmie, beauty, wealth and joy<\/p>\n

Run overpacked into thy days, and grandeurs<\/p>\n

Unmeasured. Now the greatest king on earth<\/p>\n

Becomes thy servant.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

That’s the greatest king’s<\/p>\n

Proud fortune and not mine; for nothing now<\/p>\n

Can raise me higher than I am whose father<\/p>\n

Is sovereign over greatest kings. Nothing are these<\/p>\n

And what I long to know thou dost not tell.<\/p>\n

What is he like?<\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 675<\/p>\n

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

\n

MUNJOOLICA<\/p>\n

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

I have seen the lord of love<\/p>\n

Wearing a golden human body.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/font> (with a pleased smile<\/i>)<\/p>\n

So fair!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MUNJOOLICA<\/p>\n

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

As thou art; yes, and more.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

More!<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

MUNJOOLICA<\/p>\n

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

Cry not out.<\/p>\n

His eyes are proud and smiling like the god’s;<\/p>\n

His voice is like the sudden call of Spring.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

O dear to me even as myself, wear this!<\/p>\n

She puts her own chain round her neck.<\/i><\/p>\n

MUNJOOLICA<\/p>\n

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

That is my happiness; keep thy gifts.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

Think them<\/p>\n

My love around thy neck. Thou hast spoken truly,<\/p>\n

Not woven fictions to beguile my heart?<\/p>\n

Then tell me more, tell tell, thou dearest one.<\/p>\n

Not that I care for these things, but would know.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MUNJOOLICA<\/p>\n

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

Let thy eyes care not then, but gaze.<\/p>\n

Gopalaca comes, bringing in Vuthsa.<\/i><\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 676<\/p>\n

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

\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

My brother!<\/p>\n

Long thou wast far from me.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

GOPALAKA<\/p>\n

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

For thy sake far.<\/p>\n

Much have I flung, my sister, at thy feet<\/p>\n

Nor thought my gifts were worthy of thy smile,<\/p>\n

Not even Sourashtra’s captive daughter here,<\/p>\n

The living flower and jewel of her race.<\/p>\n

But now I give indeed. This is that famous boy,<\/p>\n

Vuthsa Udaian, great Cowsamby’s king,<\/p>\n

Brought by my hands to serve thee in our house.<\/p>\n

Look on him; tell me if I have deserved.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/font> (looking covertly at Vuthsa<\/i>)<\/p>\n

Much love, dear brother; not that any prize<\/p>\n

I value as of worth for such as we,<\/p>\n

But thy love gives it price.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

GOPALAKA<\/p>\n

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

My love for both.<\/p>\n

My gift is precious to me, for my heart<\/p>\n

Possessed him long before my hands have seized.<\/p>\n

Then love him well, for so thou lov’st me twice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

Dear then and prized although a slave.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

GOPALAKA<\/p>\n

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

Are we not all<\/p>\n

Thy servants? The wide costly world is less,<\/p>\n

My sister, than thy noble charm and grace<\/p>\n

And beauty and the sweetness of thy soul<\/p>\n

Deserve, O Vasavadutta.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 677<\/p>\n

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

\n

\nVASAVADUTTA<\/font> (smiling, pleased<\/i>)<\/p>\n

Is it so?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

GOPALAKA<\/p>\n

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

My sister, thou wast born from Luxmie’s heart,<\/p>\n

And we, thy brothers, feel in thee, not us,<\/p>\n

Our father’s fate inherited; our warrings<\/p>\n

Seek for thy girdle all the conquered earth.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

I know it, brother.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

GOPALAKA<\/p>\n

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

From thy childhood, yes,<\/p>\n

Thou seem’dst to know, ruling with queenly eyes.<\/p>\n

But since thou knowest, queen, assume thy fiefs<\/p>\n

Cowsamby and Ayodhya for our house!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/font> (glancing at Vuthsa, then avoiding his eyes<\/i>)<\/p>\n

Since he’s my slave, they are already mine.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

GOPALAKA<\/p>\n

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

No; understand me, sister; make them thine.<\/p>\n

Thou, Vuthsa, serve thy mistress and obey.<\/p>\n

He goes out.<\/i><\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

He is a boy, a marvellous golden boy.<\/p>\n

I am surely older! I can play with him.<\/p>\n

There is no fear, no difficulty at all.<\/p>\n

(to Vuthsa<\/i>)<\/p>\n

What is thy name? I’ll hear it from thy lips.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

Vuthsa. <\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 678<\/p>\n

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

\n

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

\nV<\/span>ASAVADUTTA<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\nThou tremblest, Vuthsa; dost thou fear?<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n<\/p>\n

\nV<\/span>UTHSA<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\nPerhaps. There is a fear in too much joy.<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n<\/p>\n

\nVASAVADUTTA<\/font><\/span> (smiling<\/i>)<\/span><\/p>\n

\nI did not hear. My brother loves thee well.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTake comfort. If thou serve me faithfully,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThou hast no cause for any grief at all.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThou art Cowsamby’s king \u2014 <\/span> <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\nV<\/span>UTHSA<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\nMen call me so.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\nV<\/span>ASAVADUTTA<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\nAnd now my servant.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\nV<\/span>UTHSA<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\nThat my heart repeats.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\nVASAVADUTTA<\/font><\/span> (smiling<\/i>)<\/span><\/p>\n

\nI did not hear. Cowsamby’s king, my slave,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhat canst thou do to please me?<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\nV<\/span>UTHSA<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\nDost thou choose<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTo know the songs that shake the tranquil gods<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOr hear on earth the harps of heaven? dost thou<\/span><\/p>\n

\nDesire such lines and hues of living truth<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAs make earth’s shadows pale? or wilt thou have<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe infinite abysmal silences<\/span><\/p>\n

\nMade vocal, clothed with form? These things at birth<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe Kinnarie, Vidyadhur and Gundhurva<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAround me crowding on Himaloy dumb<\/span><\/p>\n

\nGave to the silent god that lived in me<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBefore my outer mind held thought. All these<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 679<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\n

\n
\nI can make thine.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n\n<\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

Vuthsa, I take all these,<\/p>\n

All thy life’s ornaments that thou wearst, for mine<\/p>\n

And am not satisfied.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

Dost thou desire<\/p>\n

The earth made thine by my victorious bow?<\/p>\n

Send me then forth to battle; earth is thine.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

I take the earth and am not satisfied.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

Say then what thing shall please thee in thy slave,<\/p>\n

What thou desir’st from Vuthsa.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

Do I know?<\/p>\n

Not less than all thou canst and all thou hast, \u2014\n<\/p>\n

(hesitating a little<\/i>)<\/p>\n

And all thou art.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

All’s thine.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

I speak and hear<\/p>\n

And know not what I say, nor what thou meanst.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

The deepest things are those thought seizes not;<\/p>\n

Our spirits live their hidden meaning out.<\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 680<\/p>\n

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

\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/font> (after a troubled silence in which she tries to recover herself
\n<\/i>)<\/p>\n

I know not how we passed into this strain.<\/p>\n

Such words are troubling to the mind and heart;<\/p>\n

Leave them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

They have been spoken.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

Let them rest.<\/p>\n

Vuthsa, my slave who promisest me much,<\/p>\n

Great things thou offerest, small things I’ll demand<\/p>\n

From thee, yet hard. Since he’s my prisoner,<\/p>\n

Munjoolica and Umba, guard this boy;<\/p>\n

You are his jailors. When I need him near me<\/p>\n

Bring him to me. Go, Vuthsa, to thy room.<\/p>\n

Vuthsa falls at her feet which he touches.<\/i><\/p>\n

What dost thou? It is not permitted thee.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

Not this? That’s hard.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/font> (troubled and feigning anger<\/i>)<\/p>\n

Thou art too bold a slave.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

Let me be earth beneath thy tread at least.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

O, take him from me; I have enough of him.<\/p>\n

Thou, Umba, see he bribes thee not or worse.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

UMBA<\/p>\n

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

I will be bribed to make thee smart for that.<\/p>\n

Where shall we put him? In the turret rooms<\/p>\n

Beside the terrace where thou walkst when moonlight<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 681<\/p>\n

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

\n

\nSleeps on the sward?<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

There; it is nearest.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

UMBA
\n<\/font>(taking Vuthsa’s hand<\/i>)<\/p>\n

Come.<\/p>\n

They go out, leaving Vasavadutta alone.<\/i><\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

Will he charm me from my purpose with a smile?<\/p>\n

How beautiful he is, how beautiful!<\/p>\n

There is a fear, there is a happy fear.<\/p>\n

But he is mine, his eyes confessed my yoke.<\/p>\n

Surely I shall do all my will with him.<\/p>\n

I sent him from me, his words troubled me<\/p>\n

And yet delighted. They have a witchery, \u2014 <\/p>\n

No, not his words, but voice. ‘Tis not his voice,<\/p>\n

Nor yet his face, his smile, his flower-soft eyes,<\/p>\n

And yet it is all these and something more.<\/p>\n

(shaking her head<\/i>)<\/p>\n

I fear it will be difficult after all.<\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 682<\/p>\n

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

\n

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

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

\n <\/font><\/p>\n

The tower-room beside the terrace.<\/i><\/p>\n

Vuthsa on a couch.<\/i><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

All that I dreamed or heard of her, her charm<\/p>\n

Exceeds. She’s mine! she has shuddered at my touch;<\/p>\n

Thrice her eyes faltered as they gazed in mine.<\/p>\n

He lies back with closed eyes;<\/i><\/p>\n

Munjoolica enters and contemplates him.<\/i><\/p>\n

MUNJOOLICA<\/p>\n

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

O golden Love! thou art not of this earth.<\/p>\n

He too is Vasavadutta’s! All is hers,<\/p>\n

As I am now and one day all the earth.<\/p>\n

Vuthsa, thou sleepst not, then.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

Sleep jealous waits<\/p>\n

Finding another image in my eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MUNJOOLICA<\/p>\n

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

Thou art disobedient. Wast thou not commanded<\/p>\n

To sleep at once?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

Sleep disobeys, not I.<\/p>\n

But thou too wakest, yet no thoughts should have<\/p>\n

To keep thy lids apart.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MUNJOOLICA<\/p>\n

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

How knowst thou that?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 683<\/p>\n

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

\n

\nI am thy jailor and I walk my rounds.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

Bright jailor, thou art jealous without cause.<\/p>\n

Who would escape from heaven’s golden bars?<\/p>\n

Thy name’s Munjoolica? So is thy form<\/p>\n

A bower of the graceful things of earth.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MUNJOOLICA<\/p>\n

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

I had another name but it has ceased,<\/p>\n

Forgotten.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

Thou wast then Sourashtra’s child?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MUNJOOLICA<\/p>\n

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

I am still that royalty clouded, even as thou<\/p>\n

Captive Cowsamby. Me Gopalaca<\/p>\n

In battle seized, brought a disdainful gift<\/p>\n

To Vasavadutta.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

Since our fates are one,<\/p>\n

Should we not be allies?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MUNJOOLICA<\/p>\n

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

For what bold purpose?<\/font><\/p>\n

\n<\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

How knowest thou I have one?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MUNJOOLICA<\/p>\n

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

Were I a man!<\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

Wouldst thou have freedom? wilt thou give me help?<\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 684<\/p>\n

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

\n

MUNJOOLICA<\/p>\n

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

In nothing against her I love and serve.<\/font><\/p>\n

\n<\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

No, but conspire to serve and love her best<\/p>\n

And make her queen of all the Aryan earth.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MUNJOOLICA<\/p>\n

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

My payment?<\/font><\/p>\n

\n<\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

Name it thyself, when all is ours.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MUNJOOLICA<\/p>\n

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

Content; it will be large.<\/font><\/p>\n

\n<\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

However large.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MUNJOOLICA<\/p>\n

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

Now shall I be avenged upon my fate!<\/p>\n

What thy heart asks I know; too openly<\/p>\n

Thou carriest the yearning in thy eyes.<\/p>\n

Vuthsa, she loves thee as the half-closed bud<\/p>\n

Thrills to the advent of a wonderful dawn<\/p>\n

And like a dreamer half-awake perceives<\/p>\n

The faint beginnings of a sunlit world.<\/p>\n

Doubt not success more than that dawn must break;<\/p>\n

For she is thine.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

Take my heart’s gratitude<\/p>\n

For the sweet assurance.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MUNJOOLICA<\/p>\n

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

I am greedy. Only<\/p>\n

Thy gratitude?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 685<\/p>\n

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

\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

What wouldst thou have?<\/font><\/p>\n

\n<\/p>\n

MUNJOOLICA<\/p>\n

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

The ring<\/p>\n

Upon thy finger, Vuthsa, for my own.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/font> (putting it on her finger<\/i>)<\/p>\n

It shall live happier on a fairer hand.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MUNJOOLICA<\/p>\n

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

Since thou hast paid me instantly and well,<\/p>\n

I will be zealous, Vuthsa, in thy cause.<\/p>\n

But my great bribe is in the future still.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

Claim it in our Cowsamby.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

MUNJOOLICA<\/p>\n

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

There indeed.<\/p>\n

Sleep now.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

By thy good help I now shall sleep.<\/p>\n

Munjoolica goes out.<\/i><\/p>\n

Music is sweet; to rule the heart’s rich chords<\/p>\n

Of human lyres much sweeter. Art’s sublime<\/p>\n

But to combine great ends more sovereign still,<\/p>\n

Accepting danger and difficulty to break<\/p>\n

Through proud and violent opposites to our will.<\/p>\n

Song is divine, but more divine is love.<\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 686<\/p>\n

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

\n

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

\nScene
\n5<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n

\n <\/font><\/p>\n

A room in Vasavadutta’s apartments.<\/i><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

I govern no longer what I speak and do.<\/p>\n

Is this the fire my mother spoke of? Oh,<\/p>\n

It is sweet, is sweet. But I will not be mastered<\/p>\n

By any equal creature. Let him serve<\/p>\n

Obediently and I will load his lovely head<\/p>\n

With costliest favours. He’s my own, my own,<\/p>\n

My slave, my toy to play with as I choose,<\/p>\n

And shall not dare to play with me. I think he dares;<\/p>\n

I do not know, I think he would presume.<\/p>\n

He’s gentle, brilliant, bold and beautiful.<\/p>\n

I’ll send for him and chide and put him down;<\/p>\n

I’ll chide him harshly; he must not presume.<\/p>\n

O, I have forgotten almost my father’s will;<\/p>\n

Yet it was mine. Before I lose it quite,<\/p>\n

I will compel a promise from the boy.<\/p>\n

Will it be hard when he is all my own?<\/p>\n

(she calls<\/i>)<\/p>\n

Umba! Bring Vuthsa to me from his tower.<\/p>\n

His music is a voice that cries to me,<\/p>\n

His songs are chains he hangs around my heart.<\/p>\n

I must not hear them often; I forget<\/p>\n

That I am Vasavadutta, that he is<\/p>\n

My house’s foe and only Vuthsa feel,<\/p>\n

Think Vuthsa only, while my captive heart<\/p>\n

Beats in world-Vuthsa and on Vuthsa throbs.<\/p>\n

This must not be.<\/p>\n

Umba brings in Vuthsa and retires.<\/i><\/p>\n

Go, Umba. Vuthsa, stand<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 687<\/p>\n

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

\n

\nBefore me.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

It is my sovereign’s voice that speaks.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

Be silent! Lower thy eyes; they are too bold<\/p>\n

To gaze on me, my slave.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

Blame not my eyes;<\/p>\n

They follow the dumb motion of a heart<\/p>\n

Uplifted to adore thee.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/font> (with a shaken voice<\/i>)<\/p>\n

Dost thou really<\/p>\n

Adore me, Vuthsa?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

Earth’s one goddess, yes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/font> (mildly<\/i>)<\/p>\n

But, Vuthsa, men adore with humble eyes<\/p>\n

Upon their deity’s feet.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

Oh, let me so<\/p>\n

Adore thee then, thus humble at thy feet,<\/p>\n

Their sleeping moonbeams in my eyes, and place<\/p>\n

My hands in Paradise beneath these flowers<\/p>\n

That bless too oft the chill unheeding earth.<\/p>\n

Let this not be forbidden to thy slave.<\/p>\n

So let me worship and the carolling of thy speech<\/p>\n

So listen.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

Vuthsa, thou must not presume.<\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 688<\/p>\n

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

\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

O even when faint thy voice, thy every word<\/p>\n

Reaches my soul.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

Wilt thou not let me free?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

Yes, if thou bid; but do not.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/font> (bending down to caress his hair<\/i>)<\/p>\n

If really<\/p>\n

And as my slave thou adorest, nothing more,<\/p>\n

I will not bid.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

What more, when this means all?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

But if thou art such, is not all thou hast<\/p>\n

Mine, mine? Why dost thou, Vuthsa, keep from me<\/p>\n

My own?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

Take all; claim all.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/font> (collecting herself <\/i>)<\/p>\n

Cowsamby first.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

It shall be thine, a jewel for thy feet.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

Thy kingdom, Vuthsa, for my will to rule.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

It shall be thine, the garden of thy pomp.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 689<\/p>\n

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

\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

Shall?<\/font><\/p>\n

\n<\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

Is it not far? We must go there, my queen,<\/p>\n

Thou to receive and I to give.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

I wish<\/p>\n

To be there. But, Udaian, thou must vow,<\/p>\n

And the word bind thee, that none else shall be<\/p>\n

Cowsamby’s queen and thou my servant live<\/p>\n

Vowed to obedience underneath my throne.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

Thou only shalt be over my heart a queen,<\/p>\n

Yes, if thou wilt, the despot of my thoughts,<\/p>\n

My hopes, my aims, but I will not obey<\/p>\n

If thou command disloyalty to thee,<\/p>\n

My sweet, sole sovereign.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/font> (smiling<\/i>)<\/p>\n

This reserve I yield.<\/p>\n

(hesitatingly<\/i>)<\/p>\n

But Vuthsa, if as subject of my sire,<\/p>\n

High Chunda Mahasegn, I bid thee rule?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

My queen, it will be void.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

Void? And thy vow?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

Would it not be disloyalty in me,<\/p>\n

To serve another sovereign?<\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 690<\/p>\n

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

\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/font>
\n(vexed, yet pleased<\/i>)<\/p>\n

O, thou playst with me.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

No, queen. What’s wholly mine, that wholly take.<\/p>\n

But this belongs to many other souls.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

To whom?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

Their names are endless. Bharuth first,<\/p>\n

Who ruled the Aryan earth that bears his name,<\/p>\n

And great Dushyanta and Pururavus’<\/p>\n

Famed warlike son and all their peerless line,<\/p>\n

Urjoona and Parikshith and his sons<\/p>\n

Whom God descended to enthrone, and all<\/p>\n

Who shall come after us, my heirs and thine<\/p>\n

Who choosest me, and a great nation’s multitudes,<\/p>\n

And the Kuru ancestors and long posterity<\/p>\n

Who all must give consent.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

Thy thoughts are high.<\/p>\n

But if thy life must fade a prisoner here?<\/p>\n

My father is inflexible and stern.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

Dost thou desire this really in thy heart?<\/p>\n

Vuthsa degraded, art thou not degraded too?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

My rule thou hast vowed?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

VUTHSA<\/p>\n

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

To obey thee in all things<\/p>\n

Throned in Cowsamby, not as here I must,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 691<\/p>\n

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

\n

\nThy father’s captive. There I shall be thine.<\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

Leave, Vuthsa, leave me. Take him, Umba, from me.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

UMBA<\/font>
\n(entering, in Vasavadutta’s ear<\/i>)<\/p>\n

Who now is bribed? We are all traitors now.<\/p>\n

She goes out with Vuthsa.<\/i><\/p>\n

VASAVADUTTA<\/p>\n

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

O joy, if he and all were only mine.<\/p>\n

O greatness, to be queen of him and earth.<\/p>\n

I grow a rebel to my father’s house.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n


\nPage \u2013 692<\/p>\n

<\/font><\/font>
\n<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/td>\n

\n

 <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n

<\/span><\/a><\/b><\/font><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

  Act III   Avunthy. In the palace.   Scene 1   A room in the royal apartments. Mahasegn, Ungarica.   MAHASEGN I conquer still…<\/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-1747","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\/1747","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=1747"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1747\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1747"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1747"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1747"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}