1. We will explain the rule for the adoption of a son. 1 2. Man,
formed of virile seed and uterine blood, proceeds from his
mother and father (as an effect) from its cause. 2 3.
(Therefore) the father and the mother have power to give, to
abandon, or to sell their (son). 4. But let him not give nor
receive (in adoption) an only son; 5. For he (must remain) to
continue the line of the ancestors. 6. Let a woman neither give
nor receive a son except with the permission of her husband. 7.
He who is desirous of adopting (a son) procures two garments,
two earrings, and a finger-ring; a spiritual guide who has
studied the whole Veda; a layer of Kusa grass and fuel of Palâsa
wood and so forth. 7 8. Then he convenes his relations, informs
the king (of his intention to adopt) in (their) presence, feeds
the (invited) Brâhmanas in the assembly or in (his) dwelling,
and makes them wish him 'an auspicious day,' 'hail,' (and)
'prosperity.' 8 9. Then he performs the ceremonies which begin
with the drawing of the lines on the