To me the supreme fulfilment of desire seemed to have
been revealed in a flash and then to have vanished. . . . But who
is it that pushes the door?
Enter CHITRA, dressed as a woman.
Ah! it is she. Quiet, my heart! . . . Fear me not, lady! I am
a Kshatriya.
Chitra
Honoured sir, you are my guest. I live in this temple. I know
not in what way I can show you hospitality.
Arjuna
Fair lady, the very sight of you is indeed the highest
hospitality. If you will not take it amiss I would ask you a
question.
Chitra
You have permission.
Arjuna
What stern vow keeps you immured in this solitary temple,
depriving all mortals of a vision of so much loveliness?
Chitra
I harbour a secret desire in my heart, for the fulfilment of
which I offer daily prayers to Lord Shiva.
Arjuna
Alas, what can you desire, you who are the desire of the whole
world! From the easternmost hill on whose summit the morning sun
first prints his fiery foot to the end of the sunset land have I
travelled.
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