Mackenzie, Donald Alexander: Indian myth and legend: with illustrations by Warwick Goble and numerous monochrome plates (London, 1913)

THE RAPE OF SITA 401

come hither with thy bride to dwell in this lone jungle
which is haunted by Rakshasas?"

Said Rama: "I am Rama, the elder son of a Maha-
rajah named Dasaratha. I dwell here in exile in fulfilment
of my sire's vow, with Sita, my spouse, and Lakshmana,
my brother. Why dost thou, O fair one, who art as
beautiful as the bride of Vishnu, wander about here all
alone?"

Surpa-nakha said: " I am a Rakshasa woman, the
sister of Ravana, and have come hither because I love
thee. I have chosen thee for my husband, and thou
shalt rule over my great empire. Thy Sita is pale and
deformed and unworthy of thee, but I am of surpassing
beauty and have power to assume any form at will. 1
must devour Sita and thy brother, so that we may range
the jungle together and visit the lofty hills."

Said Rama: "Sita is my beloved bride, nor would
I leave her. But Lakshmana hath no consort and is a fit
husband for thee."

Surpa-nakha at once departed from Rama, and went
and found Lakshmana, who jested with her.

Then the enraged Rakshasa woman sprang towards
Sita in jealous anger, but Rama thrust her back. Like
to lightning Lakshmana leapt forward with his sword and
cut off" the ears and nose of the evil-hearted Surpa-nakha,
whereat she shrieked and fled away, wailing like to the
storm wind. The rocks answered back her awesome
cries.

Surpa-nakha hastened to one of her brothers who
was named Khara, and when he saw her disfigured and
bleeding, he cried: "None but a Celestial could have
done this deed. This day will I drink the blood of
Indra as a crane drinks milk and water."

Then Surpa-nakha related what, had taken place, and

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