Jímútaváhana.
This must be the woman that I heard—(looking at Śankhachúda)—and this must be her son. Why, then, does she weep? (Looks on all sides.) I do not perceive the very least cause for her fear. I will go near and see whence her fear is. Their conversation relates to it, perhaps from it I may get some explanation. I will get inside a bush and listen.
Servant (with tears, putting his hands together).
O Prince Śankhachúda, since it is the command of my lord, this so cruel message must be delivered.
Śankhachúda.
Say on.
Servant.
The king of the Nágas orders
Śankhachúda.
(putting his hands together to his head, respectfully).
What does our lord order?
Servant.
"Having put on this pair of red garments, mount upon the rock of execution, that Garuda, on seeing the red garments, may eat you."
Jimutavahana (having overheard).
How! Is he, then, abandoned by Vásuki?
