The World of Courtesans c9.63

c9.63

By the roadside Naravahanadatta saw a big palace. Women had congregated there to see Naravahanadatta the beloved of a Yakshi. Walking slowly, the party reached the house of Sanudasa. There he saw in the first apartment (*kaksha*) sixty-four seats draped with costly silk covers. The guests were welcomed by the master of the house who led them to their seats. When he saw Naravahanadatta, he expressed his regret for not providing him with a seat. Vinadattaka at once offered him his own seat. But as long as he stood, the others were forced to stand as a matter of courtesy. A suitable seat was offered to Naravahanadatta and then they all sat down Three hundred courtesans entered and washed the feet of the guests. They poured out water from ewers. When one of them reached Naravahanadatta the ewer slipped from her hands. She became bashful and confused. Such was his grace that all the women hoped that he would marry Gandharvadatta.