The World of Courtesans c9.45

c9.45

Sometimes courtesans married their lovers. This is evident from Charusami's adventures with a courtesan. The adventure began when he saw a woman resting against an *ashoka* tree. She wore costly jewelry, and her body was draped in fine linen. He asked her who she was. She said that she was a nymph who had been sent to attend on him. He was convinced that she was a nymph. He asked his servant to serve dinner and invited the stranger to join him. When he was under the influence of drink he heard a voice say, "This man is under my control." Later on the woman drove him to her house. When the effect of drinks had worn off, Charusami found himself in the house of the courtesan Vasantatilaka. There she revealed to him her true identity and explained to him that she loved him deeply. She said that the subterfuge has been the work of her friends. He was extremely gratified when he heard her words and married her.