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ACT III.

Then enters intoxicated, his garments tumbled and stained, with a cup in his hand, a Parasite, and a Slave, carrying a vessel of wine on his shoulder.

Parasite.

These are the only two gods for me—the one who is always drinking, and the one who brings lovers together—Baladeva^[1] and Káma-deva. (Reels about.) Assuredly the life of me, Śekharaka, is very prosperous, since in my bosom is a loved lady, in my mouth lotus-scented wine, and on my head a garland, like a perpetual minister to my wants. (Stumbles.) Halloa! Who is pushing against me now? (With joy.) Assuredly Navamáliká makes game of me.

Slave.

She is not yet come, sir.

Parasite (angrily).

The marriage of Malayavatí took place in the first watch; how, then, is she not come yet, though it is morning? (Thinking for a time, with joy.) I suppose that at the marriage feast all the Siddha and Vidyádhara people, with their friends and acquaintances, are enjoying the delight of drinking in the flower-garden; so that there Navamáliká will be looking out for me. So

1. Baladeva, the elder brother of Krishna, celebrated for his drinking exploits; a sort of Bacchus.