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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of Hindu Literature, by Epiphanius Wilson
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: Hindu Literature
+
+Author: Epiphanius Wilson
+
+Release Date: August 24, 2004 [EBook #13268]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK HINDU LITERATURE ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Juliet Sutherland, Susan Skinner and the Online
+Distributed Proofreading Team.
+
+
+
+
+
+HINDU LITERATURE
+
+COMPRISING
+
+THE BOOK OF GOOD COUNSELS, NALA AND DAMAYANTI, THE RÁMÁYANA AND
+ŚAKOONTALÁ
+
+WITH CRITICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES BY
+
+EPIPHANIUS WILSON, A.M.
+
+REVISED EDITION
+
+NEW YORK
+
+P.F. COLLIER & SON
+
+COPYRIGHT, 1900
+
+BY THE COLONIAL PRESS
+
+CONTENTS
+
+THE BOOK OF GOOD COUNSELS
+
+Translator's Preface
+
+Introduction
+
+THE WINNING OF FRIENDS
+  The Story of the Jackal, Deer, and Crow
+  The Story of the Vulture, the Cat, and the Birds
+  The Story of the Dead Game and the Jackal
+  The Prince and the Wife of the Merchant's Son
+  The Story of the Old Jackal and the Elephant
+
+THE PARTING OF FRIENDS
+  The Story of the Lion, the Jackals, and the Bull
+  The Story of the Monkey and the Wedge
+  The Story of the Washerman's Jackass
+  The Story of the Cat who Served the Lion
+  The Story of the Terrible Bell
+  The Story of the Prince and the Procuress
+  The Story of the Black Snake and the Golden Chain
+  The Story of the Lion and the Old Hare
+  The Story of the Wagtail and the Sea
+
+WAR
+  The Battle of the Swans and Peacocks
+  The Story of the Weaver-Birds and the Monkeys
+  The Story of the Old Hare and the Elephants
+  The Story of the Heron and the Crow
+  The Story of the Appeased Wheelwright
+  The Story of the Dyed Jackal
+  The Story of the Faithful Rajpoot
+
+PEACE
+  The Treaty Between the Peacocks and the Swans
+  The Story of the Tortoise and the Geese
+  The Story of Fate and the Three Fishes
+  The Story of the Unabashed Wife
+  The Story of the Herons and the Mongoose
+  The Story of the Recluse and the Mouse
+  The Story of the Crane and the Crab
+  The Story of the Brahman and the Pans
+  The Duel of the Giants
+  The Story of the Brahman and the Goat
+  The Story of the Camel, the Lion, and His Court
+  The Story of the Frogs and the Old Serpent
+
+NALA AND DAMAYANTI
+
+Introduction
+NALA AND DAMAYANTI.--
+  Part I
+  Part II
+
+SELECTIONS FROM THE RÁMÁYANA
+
+Introduction
+Invocation
+BOOK I.--
+    CANTO
+     I.--Nárad
+         [_Cantos II., III., IV., and V. are omitted_]
+    VI.--The King
+   VII.--The Ministers
+  VIII.--Sumantra's Speech
+    IX.--Rishyaśring
+     X.--Rishyaśring Invited
+    XI.--The Sacrifice Decreed
+   XII.--The Sacrifice Begun
+  XIII.--The Sacrifice Finished
+   XIV.--Rávan Doomed
+    XV.--The Nectar
+   XVI.--The Vánars
+  XVII.--Rishyaśring's Return
+ XVIII.--Rishyaśring's Departure
+   XIX.--The Birth of the Princes
+    XX.--Viśvámitra's Visit
+   XXI.--Viśvámitra's Speech
+  XXII.--Daśaratha's Speech
+ XXIII.--Vaśishtha's Speech
+  XXIV.--The Spells
+   XXV.--The Hermitage of Love
+  XXVI.--The Forest of Tádaká
+ XXVII.--The Birth of Tádaká
+XXVIII.--The Death of Tádaká
+  XXIX.--The Celestial Arms
+   XXX.--The Mysterious Powers
+  XXXI.--The Perfect Hermitage
+ XXXII.--Viśvámitra's Sacrifice
+XXXIII.--The Sone
+ XXXIV.--Brahmadatta
+  XXXV.--Viśvámitra's Lineage
+ XXXVI.--The Birth of Gangá
+      [_Cantos XXXVII. and XXXVIII. are omitted_]
+ XXXIX.--The Son of Sagar
+    XL.--The Cleaving of the Earth
+   XLI.--Kapil
+  XLII.--Sagar's Sacrifice
+ XLIII.--Bhagírath
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ
+
+Introduction
+Dramatis Personae
+Rules for Pronunciation of Proper Names
+Prologue
+Act First
+Act Second
+Prelude to Act Third
+Act Third
+Prelude to Act Fourth
+Act Fourth
+Act Fifth
+Prelude to Act Sixth
+Act Sixth
+Act Seventh
+
+POEMS BY TORU DUTT
+
+Introduction
+BALLADS OF HINDOSTAN.--
+  Jogadhya Uma
+  Buttoo
+  Sindhu.--
+    Part I
+    Part II
+    Part III
+MISCELLANEOUS POEMS.--
+  Near Hastings
+  France
+  The Tree of Life
+  Madame Thérèse
+  Sonnet
+  Sonnet
+  Our Casuarina-Tree
+
+
+
+
+THE BOOK OF GOOD COUNSELS
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+SELECTED FROM
+
+THE HITOPADEŚA
+
+[_Translated from the Sanscrit by Sir Edwin Arnold_]
+
+TRANSLATOR'S PREFACE
+
+A story-book from the Sanscrit at least possesses the minor merit of
+novelty. The "perfect language" has been hitherto regarded as the
+province of scholars, and few of these even have found time or taste to
+search its treasures. And yet among them is the key to the heart of
+modern India--as well as the splendid record of her ancient Gods and
+glories. The hope of Hindostan lies in the intelligent interest of
+England. Whatever avails to dissipate misconceptions between them, and
+to enlarge their intimacy, is a gain to both peoples; and to this end
+the present volume aspires, in an humble degree, to contribute.
+
+The "Hitopadeśa" is a work of high antiquity, and extended popularity.
+The prose is doubtless as old as our own era; but the intercalated
+verses and proverbs compose a selection from writings of an age
+extremely remote. The "Mahabharata" and the textual Veds are of those
+quoted; to the first of which Professor M. Williams (in his admirable
+edition of the "Nala," 1860) assigns a date of 350 B.C., while he claims
+for the "Rig-Veda" an antiquity as high as B.C. 1300. The "Hitopadeśa"
+may thus be fairly styled "The Father of all Fables"; for from its
+numerous translations have come Æsop and Pilpay, and in later days
+Reineke Fuchs. Originally compiled in Sanscrit, it was rendered, by
+order of Nushiraván, in the sixth century, A.D., into Persic. From the
+Persic it passed, A.D. 850, into the Arabic, and thence into Hebrew and
+Greek. In its own land it obtained as wide a circulation. The Emperor
+Acbar, impressed with the wisdom of its maxims and the ingenuity of its
+apologues, commended the work of translating it to his own Vizir, Abdul
+Fazel. That minister accordingly put the book into a familiar style, and
+published it with explanations, under the title of the "Criterion of
+Wisdom." The Emperor had also suggested the abridgment of the long
+series of shlokes which here and there interrupt the narrative, and the
+Vizir found this advice sound, and followed it, like the present
+Translator. To this day, in India, the "Hitopadeśa," under other names
+(as the "Anvári Suhaili"[1]), retains the delighted attention of young
+and old, and has some representative in all the Indian vernaculars. A
+work so well esteemed in the East cannot be unwelcome to Western
+readers, who receive it here, a condensed but faithful transcript of
+sense and manner.
+
+As often as an Oriental allusion, or a name in Hindoo mythology, seemed
+to ask some explanation for the English reader, notes have been
+appended, bearing reference to the page. In their compilation, and
+generally, acknowledgment is due to Professor Johnson's excellent
+version and edition of the "Hitopadeśa," and to Mr. Muir's "Sanscrit
+Texts."
+
+A residence in India, and close intercourse with the Hindoos, have given
+the author a lively desire to subserve their advancement. No one listens
+now to the precipitate ignorance which would set aside as "heathenish"
+the high civilization of this great race; but justice is not yet done to
+their past development and present capacities. If the wit, the morality,
+and the philosophy of these "beasts of India" (so faithfully rendered by
+Mr. Harrison Weir) surprise any vigorous mind into further exploration
+of her literature, and deeper sense of our responsibility in her
+government, the author will be repaid.
+
+EDWIN ARNOLD.
+
+[1] "The Lights of Canopus," a Persian paraphrase; as the "Khirad
+Afroz," "the lamp of the Understanding," is in Hindustani.
+
+
+
+
+THE BOOK OF GOOD COUNSELS
+
+INTRODUCTION
+
+
+HONOR TO GUNESH, GOD OF WISDOM
+
+    This book of Counsel read, and you shall see,
+    Fair speech and Sanscrit lore, and Policy.
+
+ON the banks of the holy river Ganges there stood a city named
+Pataliputra. The King of it was a good King and a virtuous, and his name
+was Sudarsana. It chanced one day that he overheard a certain person
+reciting these verses--
+
+    "Wise men, holding wisdom highest, scorn delights, as false as fair,
+    Daily live they as Death's fingers twined already in their hair.
+
+    Truly, richer than all riches, better than the best of gain,
+    Wisdom is, unbought, secure--once won, none loseth her again.
+
+    Bringing dark things into daylight, solving doubts that vex the mind,
+    Like an open eye is Wisdom--he that hath her not is blind."
+
+Hearing these the King became disquieted, knowing that his own sons were
+gaining no wisdom, nor reading the Sacred Writings,[2] but altogether
+going in the wrong way; and he repeated this verse to himself--
+
+    "Childless art thou? dead thy children? leaving thee to want and dool?
+    Less thy misery than his is, who is father to a fool."
+
+And again this--
+
+    "One wise son makes glad his father, forty fools avail him not:--
+    One moon silvers all that darkness which the silly stars did dot."
+
+"And it has been said," reflected he--
+
+    "Ease and health, obeisant children, wisdom, and a fair-voiced wife--
+    Thus, great King! are counted up the five felicities of life.
+    For the son the sire is honored; though the bow-cane bendeth true,
+    Let the strained string crack in using, and what service shall it do?"
+
+"Nevertheless," mused the King, "I know it is urged that human efforts
+are useless: as, for instance--
+
+    "That which will not be, will not be--and what is to be, will be:--
+    Why not drink this easy physic, antidote of misery?"
+
+"But then that comes from idleness, with people who will not do what
+they should do. Rather,
+
+    "Nay! and faint not, idly sighing, 'Destiny is mightiest,'
+    Sesamum holds oil in plenty, but it yieldeth none unpressed.
+    Ah! it is the Coward's babble, 'Fortune taketh, Fortune gave;'
+    Fortune! rate her like a master, and she serves thee like a slave."
+
+"For indeed,
+
+    "Twofold is the life we live in--Fate and Will together run:--
+    Two wheels bear life's chariot onward--will it move on only one?"
+
+"And
+
+    "Look! the clay dries into iron, but the potter moulds the clay:--
+    Destiny to-day is master--Man was master yesterday."
+
+"So verily,
+
+    "Worthy ends come not by wishing. Wouldst thou? Up, and win it, then!
+    While the hungry lion slumbers, not a deer comes to his den."
+
+Having concluded his reflections, the Raja gave orders to assemble a
+meeting of learned men. Then said he--
+
+"Hear now, O my Pundits! Is there one among you so wise that he will
+undertake to give the second birth of Wisdom to these my sons, by
+teaching them the Books of Policy; for they have never yet read the
+Sacred Writings, and are altogether going in the wrong road; and ye know
+that
+
+    "Silly glass, in splendid settings, something of the gold may gain;
+    And in company of wise ones, fools to wisdom may attain."
+
+Then uprose a great Sage, by name Vishnu-Sarman, learned in the
+principles of Policy as is the angel of the planet Jupiter himself, and
+he said--
+
+"My Lord King, I will undertake to teach these princes Policy, seeing
+they are born of a great house; for--
+
+    "Labors spent on the unworthy, of reward the laborer balk;
+    Like the parrot, teach the heron twenty times, he will not talk."
+
+"But in this royal family the offspring are royal-minded, and in six
+moons I will engage to make your Majesty's sons comprehend Policy."
+
+The Raja replied, with condescension:--
+
+    "On the eastern mountains lying, common things shine in the sun,
+    And by learned minds enlightened, lower minds may show as one."
+
+"And you, worshipful sir, are competent to teach my children the rules
+of Policy."
+
+So saying, with much graciousness, he gave the Princes into the charge
+of Vishnu-Sarman; and that sage, by way of introduction, spake to the
+Princes, as they sat at ease on the balcony of the palace, in this
+wise:--
+
+"Hear now, my Princes! for the delectation of your Highnesses, I purpose
+to tell the tale of the Crow, the Tortoise, the Deer, and the Mouse."
+
+"Pray, sir," said the King's sons, "let us hear it."
+
+Vishnu-Sarman answered--
+
+"It begins with the Winning of Friends; and this is the first verse of
+it:--
+
+    "Sans way or wealth, wise friends their purpose gain--
+    The Mouse, Crow, Deer, and Tortoise make this plain."
+
+
+[2] The Vedas are the holy books of India. They are four in number: The
+Rig-Veda, Yajur-Veda, Sama-Veda, and Atharva-Veda.
+
+
+
+
+THE WINNING OF FRIENDS
+
+
+    Sans way or wealth, wise friends their purpose gain--
+    The Mouse, Crow, Deer, and Tortoise make this plain."
+
+"However was that?" asked the Princes.
+
+Vishnu-Sarman replied:--
+
+"On the banks of the Godavery there stood a large silk-cotton-tree, and
+thither at night, from all quarters and regions, the birds came to
+roost. Now once, when the night was just spent, and his Radiance the
+Moon, Lover of the white lotus, was about to retire behind the western
+hills, a Crow who perched there, 'Light o' Leap' by name, upon
+awakening, saw to his great wonder a fowler approaching--a second God of
+Death. The sight set him reflecting, as he flew off uneasily to follow
+up the man's movements, and he began to think what mischief this
+ill-omened apparition foretold.
+
+    "For a thousand thoughts of sorrow, and a hundred things of dread,
+    By the wise unheeded, trouble day by day the foolish head."
+
+And yet in this life it must be that
+
+    "Of the day's impending dangers, Sickness, Death, and Misery,
+    One will be; the wise man waking, ponders which that one will be."
+
+Presently the fowler fixed a net, scattered grains of rice about, and
+withdrew to hide. At this moment "Speckle-neck," King of the Pigeons,
+chanced to be passing through the sky with his Court, and caught sight
+of the rice-grains. Thereupon the King of the Pigeons asked of his
+rice-loving followers, 'How can there possibly be rice-grains lying here
+in an unfrequented forest? We will see into it, of course, but We like
+not the look of it--love of rice may ruin us, as the Traveller was
+ruined.
+
+    "All out of longing for a golden bangle,
+    The Tiger, in the mud, the man did mangle."
+
+"How did that happen?" asked the Pigeons.
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE TIGER AND THE TRAVELLER
+
+"Thus," replied Speckle-neck: "I was pecking about one day in the Deccan
+forest, and saw an old tiger sitting newly bathed on the bank of a pool,
+like a Brahman, and with holy kuskus-grass[3] in his paws.
+
+'Ho! ho! ye travellers,' he kept calling out, 'take this golden bangle!'
+
+Presently a covetous fellow passed by and heard him.
+
+'Ah!' thought he, 'this is a bit of luck--but I must not risk my neck
+for it either.
+
+    "Good things come not out of bad things; wisely leave a longed-for ill.
+    Nectar being mixed with poison serves no purpose but to kill."
+
+'But all gain is got by risk, so I will see into it at least;' then he
+called out, 'Where is thy bangle?'
+
+The Tiger stretched forth his paw and exhibited it.
+
+'Hem!' said the Traveller, 'can I trust such a fierce brute as thou
+art?'
+
+'Listen,' replied the Tiger, 'once, in the days of my cub-hood, I know I
+was very wicked. I killed cows, Brahmans, and men without number--and I
+lost my wife and children for it--and haven't kith or kin left. But
+lately I met a virtuous man who counselled me to practise the duty of
+almsgiving--and, as thou seest, I am strict at ablutions and alms.
+Besides, I am old, and my nails and fangs are gone--so who would
+mistrust me? and I have so far conquered selfishness, that I keep the
+golden bangle for whoso comes. Thou seemest poor! I will give it thee.
+Is it not said,
+
+    'Give to poor men, son of Kûnti--on the wealthy waste not wealth;
+    Good are simples for the sick man, good for nought to him in health.'
+
+'Wade over the pool, therefore, and take the bangle,'
+
+Thereupon the covetous Traveller determined to trust him, and waded into
+the pool, where he soon found himself plunged in mud, and unable to
+move.
+
+'Ho! ho!' says the Tiger, 'art thou stuck in a slough? stay, I will
+fetch thee out!'
+
+So saying he approached the wretched man and seized him--who meanwhile
+bitterly reflected--
+
+    'Be his Scripture-learning wondrous, yet the cheat will be a cheat;
+    Be her pasture ne'er so bitter, yet the cow's milk will be sweet.'
+
+And on that verse, too--
+
+    'Trust not water, trust not weapons; trust not clawed nor horned
+    things;
+    Neither give thy soul to women, nor thy life to Sons of Kings.'
+
+And those others--
+
+    'Look! the Moon, the silver roamer, from whose splendor darkness flies
+    With his starry cohorts marching, like a crowned king through the
+            skies.
+    All the grandeur, all the glory, vanish in the Dragon's jaw;
+    What is written on the forehead, that will be, and nothing more,'
+
+Here his meditations were cut short by the Tiger devouring him. "And
+that," said Speckle-neck, "is why we counselled caution."
+
+"Why, yes!" said a certain pigeon, with some presumption, "but you've
+read the verse--
+
+    'Counsel in danger; of it
+      Unwarned, be nothing begun.
+    But nobody asks a Prophet
+      Shall the risk of a dinner be run?'
+
+Hearing that, the Pigeons settled at once; for we know that
+
+    "Avarice begetteth anger; blind desires from her begin;
+    A right fruitful mother is she of a countless spawn of sin.'
+
+And again,
+
+    'Can a golden Deer have being? yet for such the Hero pined:--
+    When the cloud of danger hovers, then its shadow dims the mind.'
+
+Presently they were caught in the net. Thereat, indeed, they all began
+to abuse the pigeon by whose suggestion they had been ensnared. It is
+the old tale!
+
+    "Be second and not first!--the share's the same
+    If all go well. If not, the Head's to blame."
+
+And we should remember that
+
+    "Passion will be Slave or Mistress: follow her, she brings to woe;
+    Lead her, 'tis the way to Fortune. Choose the path that thou wilt go."
+
+When King Speckle-neck heard their reproaches, he said, "No, no! it is
+no fault of his.
+
+'When the time of trouble cometh, friends may ofttimes irk us most: For
+the calf at milking-hour the mother's leg is tying-post.'
+
+'And in disaster, dismay is a coward's quality; let us rather rely on
+fortitude, and devise some remedy. How saith the sage?
+
+    "In good fortune not elated, in ill-fortune not dismayed,
+    Ever eloquent in council, never in the fight affrayed--
+    Proudly emulous of honor, steadfastly on wisdom set;
+    Perfect virtues in the nature of a noble soul are met.
+    Whoso hath them, gem and glory of the three wide worlds[4] is he;
+    Happy mother she that bore him, she who nursed him on her knee."
+
+"Let us do this now directly," continued the King: "at one moment and
+with one will, rising under the net, let us fly off with it: for indeed
+
+    'Small things wax exceeding mighty, being cunningly combined:--
+    Furious elephants are fastened with a rope of grass-blades twined.'
+
+"And it is written, you know,
+
+    'Let the household hold together, though the house be ne'er so small;
+    Strip the rice-husk from the rice-grain, and it groweth not at all.'
+
+Having pondered this advice, the Pigeons adopted it; and flew away with
+the net. At first the fowler, who was at a distance, hoped to recover
+them, but as they passed out of sight with the snare about them he gave
+up the pursuit. Perceiving this, the Pigeons said,
+
+"What is the next thing to be done, O King?"
+
+"A friend of mine," said Speckle-neck, "lives near in a beautiful forest
+on the Gundaki. Golden-skin is his name--the King of the Mice--he is the
+one to cut these bonds."
+
+Resolving to have recourse to him, they directed their flight to the
+hole of Golden-skin--a prudent monarch, who dreaded danger so much that
+he had made himself a palace with a hundred outlets, and lived always in
+it. Sitting there he heard the descent of the pigeons, and remained
+silent and alarmed.
+
+"Friend Golden-skin," cried the King, "have you no welcome for us?"
+
+"Ah, my friend!" said the Mouse-king, rushing out on recognizing the
+voice, "is it thou art come, Speckle-neck! how delightful!--But what is
+this?" exclaimed he, regarding the entangled net.
+
+"That," said King Speckle-neck, "is the effect of some wrong-doing in a
+former life--
+
+    'Sickness, anguish, bonds, and woe
+    Spring from wrongs wrought long ago,'[5]
+
+Golden-skin, without replying, ran at once to the net, and began to gnaw
+the strings that held Speckle-neck.
+
+"Nay! friend, not so," said the King, "cut me first these meshes from my
+followers, and afterwards thou shalt sever mine."
+
+"I am little," answered Golden-skin, "and my teeth are weak--how can I
+gnaw so much? No! no! I will nibble your strings as long as my teeth
+last, and afterwards do my best for the others. To preserve dependents
+by sacrificing oneself is nowhere enjoined by wise moralists; on the
+contrary--
+
+    'Keep wealth for want, but spend-it for thy wife,
+    And wife, and wealth, and all to guard thy life,'
+
+"Friend," replied King Speckle-neck, "that may be the rule of policy,
+but I am one that can by no means bear to witness the distress of those
+who depend on me, for--
+
+    'Death, that must come, comes nobly when we give
+    Our wealth, and life, and all, to make men live,'
+
+And you know the verse,
+
+    'Friend, art thou faithful? guard mine honor so!
+    And let the earthy rotting body go,'"
+
+When King Golden-skin heard this answer his heart was charmed, and his
+fur bristled up for pure pleasure. "Nobly spoken, friend," said he,
+"nobly spoken! with such a tenderness for those that look to thee, the
+Sovereignty of the Three Worlds might be fitly thine." So saying he set
+himself to cut all their bonds. This done, and the pigeons extricated,
+the King of the Mice[6] gave them his formal welcome. "But, your
+Majesty," he said, "this capture in the net was a work of destiny; you
+must not blame yourself as you did, and suspect a former fault. Is it
+not written--
+
+    'Floating on his fearless pinions, lost amid the noon-day skies,
+    Even thence the Eagle's vision kens the carcase where it lies;
+    But the hour that comes to all things comes unto the Lord of Air,
+    And he rushes, madly blinded, to his ruin in the snare,'"
+
+With this correction Golden-skin proceeded to perform the duties of
+hospitality, and afterwards, embracing and dismissing them, the pigeons
+left for such destination as they fancied, and the King of the Mice
+retired again into his hole.
+
+Now Light o' Leap, the Crow, had been a spectator of the whole
+transaction, and wondered at it so much that at last he called out, "Ho!
+Golden-skin, thou very laudable Prince, let me too be a friend of thine,
+and give me thy friendship."
+
+"Who art thou?" said Golden-skin, who heard him, but would not come out
+of his hole.
+
+"I am the Crow Light o' Leap," replied the other.
+
+"How can I possibly be on good terms with thee?" answered Golden-skin
+with a laugh; "have you never read--
+
+    'When Food is friends with Feeder, look for Woe,
+    The Jackal ate the Deer, but for the Crow,'
+
+"No! how was that?"
+
+"I will tell thee," replied Golden-skin:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE JACKAL, DEER, AND CROW
+
+"Far away in Behar there is a forest called Champak-Grove,[7] and in it
+had long lived in much affection a Deer and a Crow. The Deer, roaming
+unrestrained, happy and fat of carcase, was one day descried by a
+Jackal. 'Ho! ho!' thought the Jackal on observing him, 'if I could but
+get this soft meat for a meal! It might be--if I can only win his
+confidence,' Thus reflecting he approached, and saluted him.
+
+'Health be to thee, friend Deer!'
+
+'Who art thou?' said the Deer.
+
+'I'm Small-wit, the Jackal,' replied the other. 'I live in the wood
+here, as the dead do, without a friend; but now that I have met with
+such a friend as thou, I feel as if I were beginning life again with
+plenty of relations. Consider me your faithful servant.'
+
+'Very well,' said the Deer; and then, as the glorious King of Day, whose
+diadem is the light, had withdrawn himself, the two went together to the
+residence of the Deer. In that same spot, on a branch of Champak, dwelt
+the Crow Sharp-sense, an old friend of the Deer. Seeing them approach
+together, the Crow said,
+
+'Who is this number two, friend Deer?'
+
+'It is a Jackal,' answered the Deer, 'that desires our acquaintance.'
+
+'You should not become friendly to a stranger without reason,' said
+Sharp-sense. 'Don't you know?'
+
+    "To folks by no one known house-room deny:--
+    The Vulture housed the Cat, and thence did die."
+
+'No! how was that?' said both.
+
+'In this wise,' answered the Crow.
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE VULTURE, THE CAT, AND THE BIRDS
+
+"On the banks of the Ganges there is a cliff called Vulture-Crag, and
+thereupon grew a great fig-tree. It was hollow, and within its shelter
+lived an old Vulture, named Grey-pate, whose hard fortune it was to have
+lost both eyes and talons. The birds that roosted in the tree made
+subscriptions from their own store, out of sheer pity for the poor
+fellow, and by that means he managed to live. One day, when the old
+birds were gone, Long-ear, the Cat, came there to get a meal of the
+nestlings; and they, alarmed at perceiving him, set up a chirruping that
+roused Grey-pate.
+
+'Who comes there?' croaked Grey-pate.
+
+"Now Long-ear, on espying the Vulture, thought himself undone; but as
+flight was impossible, he resolved to trust his destiny and approach.
+
+'My lord,' said he, 'I have the honor to salute thee.'
+
+'Who is it?' said the Vulture.
+
+'I am a Cat,'
+
+'Be off, Cat, or I shall slay thee,' said the Vulture.
+
+'I am ready to die if I deserve death,' answered the Cat; 'but let what
+I have to say be heard,'
+
+'Wherefore, then, comest thou?' said the Vulture.
+
+'I live,' began Long-ear, 'on the Ganges, bathing, and eating no flesh,
+practising the moon-penance,[8] like a Bramacharya. The birds that
+resort thither constantly praise your worship to me as one wholly given
+to the study of morality, and worthy of all trust; and so I came here to
+learn law from thee, Sir, who art so deep gone in learning and in years.
+Dost thou, then, so read the law of strangers as to be ready to slay a
+guest? What say the books about the householder?--
+
+    'Bar thy door not to the stranger, be he friend or be he foe,
+    For the tree will shade the woodman while his axe doth lay it low,'
+
+And if means fail, what there is should be given with kind words, as--
+
+    'Greeting fair, and room to rest in; fire, and water from the well--
+    Simple gifts--are given freely in the house where good men dwell,'--
+
+and without respect of person--
+
+    'Young, or bent with many winters; rich, or poor, whate'er thy guest,
+    Honor him for thine own honor--better is he than the best,'
+
+Else comes the rebuke--
+
+    'Pity them that ask thy pity: who art thou to stint thy hoard,
+    When the holy moon shines equal on the leper and the lord!'
+
+And that other, too,
+
+    'When thy gate is roughly fastened, and the asker turns away,
+    Thence he bears thy good deeds with him, and his sins on thee doth lay
+
+For verily,
+
+    'In the house the husband ruleth, men the Brahmans "master" call;
+    Agni is the Twice-born Master--but the guest is lord of all,'
+
+"To these weighty words Grey-pate answered,
+
+'Yes! but cats like meat, and there are young birds here, and therefore
+I said, go,'
+
+'Sir,' said the Cat (and as he spoke he touched the ground, and then his
+two ears, and called on Krishna to witness to his words), 'I that have
+overcome passion, and practised the moon-penance, know the Scriptures;
+and howsoever they contend, in this primal duty of abstaining from
+injury they are unanimous. Which of them sayeth not--
+
+    'He who does and thinks no wrong--
+    He who suffers, being strong--
+    He whose harmlessness men know--
+    Unto Swerga such doth go.'
+
+"And so, winning the old Vulture's confidence, Long-ear, the Cat,
+entered the hollow tree and lived there. And day after day he stole away
+some of the nestlings, and brought them down to the hollow to devour.
+Meantime the parent birds, whose little ones were being eaten, made an
+inquiry after them in all quarters; and the Cat, discovering this fact,
+slipped out from the hollow, and made his escape. Afterwards, when the
+birds came to look closely, they found the bones of their young ones in
+the hollow of the tree where Grey-pate lived; and the birds at once
+concluded that their nestlings had been killed and eaten by the old
+Vulture, whom they accordingly executed. That is my story, and why I
+warned you against unknown acquaintances."
+
+"Sir," said the Jackal, with some warmth, "on the first day of your
+encountering the Deer you also were of unknown family and character: how
+is it, then, that your friendship with him grows daily greater? True, I
+am only Small-wit, the Jackal, but what says the saw?--
+
+    "In the land where no wise men are, men of little wit are lords;
+    And the castor-oil's a tree, where no tree else its shade affords."
+
+The Deer is my friend; condescend, sir, to be my friend also."
+
+'Oh!' broke in the Deer, 'why so much talking? We'll all live together,
+and be friendly and happy--
+
+    'Foe is friend, and friend is foe,
+    As our actions make them so,'
+
+"Very good," said Sharp-sense; "as you will;" and in the morning each
+started early for his own feeding-ground (returning at night). One day
+the Jackal drew the Deer aside, and whispered, 'Deer, in one corner of
+this wood there is a field full of sweet young wheat; come and let me
+show you.' The Deer accompanied him, and found the field, and afterwards
+went every day there to eat the green corn, till at last the owner of
+the ground spied him and set a snare. The Deer came again very shortly,
+and was caught in it, and (after vainly struggling) exclaimed, 'I am
+fast in the net, and it will be a net of death to me if no friend comes
+to rescue me!' Presently Small-wit, the Jackal, who had been lurking
+near, made his appearance, and standing still, he said to himself, with
+a chuckle, 'O ho! my scheme bears fruit! When he is cut up, his bones,
+and gristle, and blood, will fall to my share and make me some beautiful
+dinners,' The Deer, here catching sight of him, exclaimed with rapture,
+'Ah, friend, this is excellent! Do but gnaw these strings, and I shall
+be at liberty. How charming to realize the saying!--
+
+    'That friend only is the true friend who is near when trouble comes;
+    That man only is the brave man who can bear the battle-drums;
+    Words are wind; deed proveth promise: he who helps at need is kin;
+    And the leal wife is loving though the husband lose or win,'
+
+And is it not written--
+
+    'Friend and kinsman--more their meaning than the idle-hearted mind.
+    Many a friend can prove unfriendly, many a kinsman less than kind:
+    He who shares his comrade's portion, be he beggar, be he lord,
+    Comes as truly, comes as duly, to the battle as the board--
+    Stands before the king to succor, follows to the pile to sigh--
+    He is friend, and he is kinsman--less would make the name a lie.'
+
+"Small-wit answered nothing, but betook himself to examining the snare
+very closely.
+
+'This will certainly hold,' muttered he; then, turning to the Deer, he
+said, 'Good friend, these strings, you see, are made of sinew, and
+to-day is a fast-day, so that I cannot possibly bite them. To-morrow
+morning, if you still desire it, I shall be happy to serve you,'
+
+When he was gone, the Crow, who had missed the Deer upon returning that
+evening, and had sought for him everywhere, discovered him; and seeing
+his sad plight, exclaimed--
+
+'How came this about, my friend?'
+
+'This came,' replied the Deer, 'through disregarding a friend's advice,'
+
+'Where is that rascal Small-wit?' asked the Crow.
+
+'He is waiting somewhere by,' said the Deer, 'to taste my flesh,'
+
+'Well,' sighed the Crow, 'I warned you; but it is as in the true verse--
+
+    'Stars gleam, lamps flicker, friends foretell of fate;
+    The fated sees, knows, hears them--all too late.'
+
+And then, with a deeper sigh, he exclaimed,'Ah, traitor Jackal, what an
+ill deed hast thou done! Smooth-tongued knave--alas!--and in the face of
+the monition too--
+
+    'Absent, flatterers' tongues are daggers--present, softer than the
+            silk;
+    Shun them! 'tis a jar of poison hidden under harmless milk;
+    Shun them when they promise little! Shun them when they promise much!
+    For, enkindled, charcoal burneth--cold, it doth defile the touch.'
+
+When the day broke, the Crow (who was still there) saw the master of the
+field approaching with his club in his hand.
+
+'Now, friend Deer,' said Sharp-sense on perceiving him, 'do thou cause
+thyself to seem like one dead: puff thy belly up with wind, stiffen thy
+legs out, and lie very still. I will make a show of pecking thine eyes
+out with my beak; and whensoever I utter a croak, then spring to thy
+feet and betake thee to flight.'
+
+The Deer thereon placed himself exactly as the Crow suggested, and was
+very soon espied by the husbandman, whose eyes opened with joy at the
+sight.
+
+'Aha!' said he, 'the fellow has died of himself,' and so speaking, he
+released the Deer from the snare, and proceeded to gather and lay aside
+his nets. At that instant Sharp-sense uttered a loud croak, and the Deer
+sprang up and made off. And the club which the husbandman flung after
+him in a rage struck Small-wit, the Jackal (who was close by), and
+killed him. Is it not said, indeed?--
+
+    'In years, or moons, or half-moons three,
+    Or in three days--suddenly,
+    Knaves are shent--true men go free,'
+
+"Thou seest, then," said Golden-skin, "there can be no friendship
+between food and feeder."
+
+"I should hardly," replied the Crow, "get a large breakfast out of your
+worship; but as to that indeed you have nothing to fear from me. I am
+not often angry, and if I were, you know--
+
+    'Anger comes to noble natures, but leaves there no strife or storm:
+    Plunge a lighted torch beneath it, and the ocean grows not warm.'
+
+"Then, also, thou art such a gad-about," objected the King.
+
+"Maybe," answered Light o' Leap; "but I am bent on winning thy
+friendship, and I will die at thy door of fasting if thou grantest it
+not. Let us be friends! for
+
+    'Noble hearts are golden vases--close the bond true metals make;
+    Easily the smith may weld them, harder far it is to break.
+    Evil hearts are earthen vessels--at a touch they crack a-twain,
+    And what craftsman's ready cunning can unite the shards again?'
+
+And then, too,
+
+    'Good men's friendships may be broken, yet abide they friends at heart;
+    Snap the stem of Luxmee's lotus, and its fibres will not part.'
+
+"Good sir," said the King of the Mice, "your conversation is as pleasing
+as pearl necklets or oil of sandal-wood in hot weather. Be it as you
+will"--and thereon King Golden-skin made a treaty with the Crow, and
+after gratifying him with the best of his store reëntered his hole. The
+Crow returned to his accustomed perch:--and thenceforward the time
+passed in mutual presents of food, in polite inquiries, and the most
+unrestrained talk. One day Light o' Leap thus accosted Golden-skin:--
+
+"This is a poor place, your Majesty, for a Crow to get a living in. I
+should like to leave it and go elsewhere."
+
+"Whither wouldst thou go?" replied the King; they say,
+
+    'One foot goes, and one foot stands,
+    When the wise man leaves his lands.'
+
+"And they say, too," answered the Crow,
+
+    'Over-love of home were weakness; wheresoever the hero come,
+    Stalwart arm and steadfast spirit find or win for him a home.
+
+    Little recks the awless lion where his hunting jungles lie--
+    When he enters it be certain that a royal prey shall die,'
+
+"I know an excellent jungle now."
+
+"Which is that?" asked the Mouse-king.
+
+"In the Nerbudda woods, by Camphor-water," replied the Crow. "There is
+an old and valued friend of mine lives there--Slow-toes his name is, a
+very virtuous Tortoise; he will regale me with fish and good things."
+
+"Why should I stay behind," said Golden-skin, "if thou goest? Take me
+also."
+
+Accordingly, the two set forth together, enjoying charming converse upon
+the road. Slow-toes perceived Light o' Leap a long way off, and hastened
+to do him the guest-rites, extending them to the Mouse upon Light o'
+Leap's introduction.
+
+"Good Slow-toes," said he, "this is Golden-skin, King of the Mice--pay
+all honor to him--he is burdened with virtues--a very jewel-mine of
+kindnesses. I don't know if the Prince of all the Serpents, with his two
+thousand tongues, could rightly repeat them." So speaking, he told the
+story of Speckle-neck. Thereupon Slow-toes made a profound obeisance to
+Golden-skin, and said, "How came your Majesty, may I ask, to retire to
+an unfrequented forest?"
+
+"I will tell you," said the King. "You must know that in the town of
+Champaka there is a college for the devotees. Unto this resorted daily a
+beggar-priest, named Chudakarna, whose custom was to place his
+begging-dish upon the shelf, with such alms in it as he had not eaten,
+and go to sleep by it; and I, so soon as he slept, used to jump up, and
+devour the meal. One day a great friend of his, named Vinakarna, also a
+mendicant, came to visit him; and observed that while conversing, he
+kept striking the ground with a split cane, to frighten me. 'Why don't
+you listen?' said Vinakarna. 'I am listening!' replied the other; 'but
+this plaguy mouse is always eating the meal out of my begging-dish,'
+Vinakarna looked at the shelf and remarked, 'However can a mouse jump as
+high as this? There must be a reason, though there seems none. I guess
+the cause--the fellow is well off and fat,' With these words Vinakarna
+snatched up a shovel, discovered my retreat, and took away all my hoard
+of provisions. After that I lost strength daily, had scarcely energy
+enough to get my dinner, and, in fact, crept about so wretchedly, that
+when Chudakarna saw me he fell to quoting--
+
+    'Very feeble folk are poor folk; money lost takes wit away:--
+    All their doings fail like runnels, wasting through the summer day.'
+
+"Yes!" I thought, "he is right, and so are the sayings--
+
+    'Wealth is friends, home, father, brother--title to respect and fame;
+     Yea, and wealth is held for wisdom--that it should be so is shame,'
+    'Home is empty to the childless; hearts to them who friends deplore:--
+     Earth unto the idle-minded; and the three worlds to the poor.'
+
+'I can stay here no longer; and to tell my distress to another is out of
+the question--altogether out of the question!--
+
+    'Say the sages, nine things name not: Age, domestic joys and woes,
+    Counsel, sickness, shame, alms, penance; neither Poverty disclose.
+    Better for the proud of spirit, death, than life with losses told;
+    Fire consents to be extinguished, but submits not to be cold.'
+
+'Verily he was wise, methought also, who wrote--
+
+    'As Age doth banish beauty,
+      As moonlight dies in gloom,
+    As Slavery's menial duty
+      Is Honor's certain tomb;
+    As Hari's name and Hara's
+      Spoken, charm sin away,
+    So Poverty can surely
+      A hundred virtues slay.'
+
+'And as to sustaining myself on another man's bread, that,' I mused,
+'would be but a second door of death. Say not the books the same?--
+
+    'Half-known knowledge, present pleasure purchased with a future woe,
+    And to taste the salt of service--greater griefs no man can know.'
+
+'And herein, also--
+
+    'All existence is not equal, and all living is not life;
+    Sick men live; and he who, banished, pines for children, home, and
+            wife;
+    And the craven-hearted eater of another's leavings lives,
+    And the wretched captive waiting for the word of doom survives;
+    But they bear an anguished body, and they draw a deadly breath,
+    And life cometh to them only on the happy day of death.'
+
+Yet, after all these reflections, I was covetous enough to make one
+more attempt on Chudakarna's meal, and got a blow from the split cane
+for my pains. 'Just so,' I said to myself, 'the soul and organs of the
+discontented want keeping in subjection. I must be done with
+discontent:--
+
+'Golden gift, serene Contentment! have thou that, and all is had; Thrust
+thy slipper on, and think thee that the earth is leather-clad.'
+
+'All is known, digested, tested; nothing new is left to learn When the
+soul, serene, reliant, Hope's delusive dreams can spurn.'
+
+'And the sorry task of seeking favor is numbered in the miseries of
+life--
+
+'Hast thou never watched, a-waiting till the great man's door unbarred?
+Didst thou never linger parting, saying many a last sad word? Spak'st
+thou never word of folly, one light thing thou wouldst recall? Rare and
+noble hath thy life been! fair thy fortune did befall!'
+
+'No!' exclaimed I, 'I will do none of these; but, by retiring into the
+quiet and untrodden forest, I will show my discernment of real good and
+ill. The holy Books counsel it--
+
+'True Religion!--'tis not blindly prating what the priest may prate, But
+to love, as God hath loved them, all things, be they small or great; And
+true bliss is when a sane mind doth a healthy body fill; And true
+knowledge is the knowing what is good and what is ill.'
+
+"So came I to the forest, where, by good fortune and this good friend, I
+met much kindness; and by the same good fortune have encountered you,
+Sir, whose friendliness is as Heaven to me. Ah! Sir Tortoise,
+
+    'Poisonous though the tree of life be, two fair blossoms grow thereon:
+    One, the company of good men; and sweet songs of Poet's, one.'
+
+"King!" said Slow-toes, "your error was getting too much, without
+giving. Give, says the sage--
+
+    'Give, and it shall swell thy getting; give, and thou shalt safer keep:
+    Pierce the tank-wall; or it yieldeth, when the water waxes deep.'
+
+And he is very hard upon money-grubbing: as thus--
+
+    'When the miser hides his treasure in the earth, he doeth well;
+    For he opens up a passage that his soul may sink to hell,'
+
+
+And thus--
+
+    'He whose coins are kept for counting, not to barter nor to give,
+    Breathe he like a blacksmith's bellows, yet in truth he doth not live.'
+
+It hath been well written, indeed,
+
+    'Gifts, bestowed with words of kindness, making giving doubly dear:--
+    Wisdom, deep, complete, benignant, of all arrogancy clear;
+    Valor, never yet forgetful of sweet Mercy's pleading prayer;
+    Wealth, and scorn of wealth to spend it--oh! but these be virtues
+            rare!'
+
+"Frugal one may be," continued Slow-toes; "but not a niggard like the
+Jackal--
+
+    'The Jackal-knave, that starved his spirit so,
+    And died of saving, by a broken bow.'
+
+"Did he, indeed," said Golden-skin; "and how was that?"
+
+"I will tell you," answered Slow-toes:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE DEAD GAME AND THE JACKAL
+
+"In a town called 'Well-to-Dwell' there lived a mighty hunter, whose
+name was 'Grim-face,' Feeling a desire one day for a little venison, he
+took his bow, and went into the woods; where he soon killed a deer. As
+he was carrying the deer home, he came upon a wild boar of prodigious
+proportions. Laying the deer upon the earth, he fixed and discharged an
+arrow and struck the boar, which instantly rushed upon him with a roar
+louder than the last thunder, and ripped the hunter up. He fell like a
+tree cut by the axe, and lay dead along with the boar, and a snake also,
+which had been crushed by the feet of the combatants. Not long
+afterwards, there came that way, in his prowl for food, a Jackal, named
+'Howl o' Nights,' and cast eyes on the hunter, the deer, the boar, and
+the snake lying dead together. 'Aha!' said he, 'what luck! Here's a
+grand dinner got ready for me! Good fortune can come, I see, as well as
+ill fortune. Let me think:--the man will be fine pickings for a month;
+the deer with the boar will last two more; the snake will do for
+to-morrow; and, as I am very particularly hungry, I will treat myself
+now to this bit of meat on the bow-horn,' So saying, he began to gnaw it
+asunder, and the bow-string slipping, the bow sprang back, and resolved
+Howl o' Nights into the five elements by death. That is my story,"
+continued Slow-toes, "and its application is for the wise:--
+
+    'Sentences of studied wisdom, nought avail they unapplied;
+    Though the blind man hold a lantern, yet his footsteps stray aside.'
+
+The secret of success, indeed, is a free, contented, and yet
+enterprising mind. How say the books thereon?--
+
+    'Wouldst thou know whose happy dwelling Fortune entereth unknown?
+    His, who careless of her favor, standeth fearless in his own;
+    His, who for the vague to-morrow barters not the sure to-day--
+    Master of himself, and sternly steadfast to the rightful way:
+    Very mindful of past service, valiant, faithful, true of heart--
+    Unto such comes Lakshmi[9] smiling--comes, and will not lightly part.'
+
+"What indeed," continued Slow-toes, "is wealth, that we should prize it,
+or grieve to lose it?--
+
+    'Be not haughty, being wealthy; droop not, having lost thine all;
+    Fate doth play with mortal fortunes as a girl doth toss her ball.'
+
+It is unstable by nature. We are told--
+
+    'Worldly friendships, fair but fleeting, shadows of the clouds at noon
+    Women, youth, new corn, and riches--these be pleasures passing soon.'
+
+And it is idle to be anxious; the Master of Life knows how to sustain
+it. Is it not written?--
+
+    'For thy bread be not o'er thoughtful--God for all hath taken thought:
+    When the babe is born, the sweet milk to the mother's breast is
+            brought.
+
+    He who gave the swan her silver, and the hawk her plumes of pride,
+    And his purples to the peacock--He will verily provide.'
+
+"Yes, verily," said Slow-toes, "wealth is bad to handle, and better left
+alone; there is no truer saying than this--
+
+    'Though for good ends, waste not on wealth a minute;
+    Mud may be wiped, but wise men plunge not in it.'
+
+Hearing the wisdom of these monitions, Light o' Leap broke out, 'Good
+Slow-toes! thou art a wise protector of those that come to thee; thy
+learning comforts my enlightened friend, as elephants drag elephants
+from the mire,' And thus, on the best of terms, wandering where they
+pleased for food, the three lived there together.
+
+One day it chanced that a Deer named Dapple-back, who had seen some
+cause of alarm in the forest, came suddenly upon the three in his
+flight. Thinking the danger imminent, Slow-toes dropped into the water,
+King Golden-skin slipped into his hole, and Light o' Leap flew up into
+the top of a high tree. Thence he looked all round to a great distance,
+but could discover nothing. So they all came back again, and sat down
+together. Slow-toes welcomed the Deer.
+
+'Good Deer,' said he, 'may grass and water never fail thee at thy need.
+Gratify us by residing here, and consider this forest thine own.'
+
+'Indeed,' answered Dapple-back, 'I came hither for your protection,
+flying from a hunter; and to live with you in friendship is my greatest
+desire.'
+
+'Then the thing is settled,' observed Golden-skin.
+
+'Yes! yes!' said Light o' Leap, 'make yourself altogether at home!'
+
+So the Deer, charmed at his reception, ate grass and drank water, and
+laid himself down in the shade of a Banyan-tree to talk. Who does not
+know?--
+
+    'Brunettes, and the Banyan's shadow,
+      Well-springs, and a brick-built wall.
+    Are all alike cool in the summer,
+      And warm in the winter--all.'
+
+'What made thee alarmed, friend Deer?' began Slow-toes. 'Do hunters ever
+come to this unfrequented forest?'
+
+'I have heard,' replied Dapple-back, 'that the Prince of the Kalinga
+country, Rukmangada, is coming here. He is even now encamped on the
+Cheenab River, on his march to subjugate the borders; and the hunters
+have been heard to say that he will halt to-morrow by this very lake of
+"Camphor-water." Don't you think, as it is dangerous to stay, that we
+ought to resolve on something?'
+
+'I shall certainly go to another pool,' exclaimed Slow-toes.
+
+'It would be better,' answered the Crow and Deer together.
+
+'Yes!' remarked the King of the Mice, after a minute's thought; 'but how
+is Slow-toes to get across the country in time? Animals like our
+amphibious host are best in the water; on land he might suffer from his
+own design, like the merchant's son--
+
+    'The merchant's son laid plans for gains,
+    And saw his wife kissed for his pains.'
+
+'How came that about?' asked all. "I'll tell you," answered Golden-skin.
+
+
+THE PRINCE AND THE WIFE OF THE MERCHANT'S SON
+
+"In the country of Kanouj there was a King named Virasena, and he made
+his son viceroy of a city called Virapoora. The Prince was rich,
+handsome, and in the bloom of youth. Passing through the streets of his
+city one day, he observed a very lovely woman, whose name was
+Lávanyavati--i.e., the Beautiful--the wife of a merchant's son. On
+reaching his palace, full of her charms and of passionate admiration for
+them, he despatched a message to her, and a letter, by a female
+attendant:--who wonders at it?--
+
+    'Ah! the gleaming, glancing arrows of a lovely woman's eye!
+    Feathered with her jetty lashes, perilous they pass us by:--
+    Loosed at venture from the black bows of her arching brow they part,
+    All too penetrant and deadly for an undefended heart.'
+
+Now Lávanyavati, from the moment she saw the Prince, was hit with the
+same weapon of love that wounded him; but upon hearing the message of
+the attendant, she refused with dignity to receive his letter.
+
+'I am my husband's,' she said, 'and that is my honor; for--
+
+    'Beautiful the Koíl[10] seemeth for the sweetness of his song,
+    Beautiful the world esteemeth pious souls for patience strong;
+    Homely features lack not favor when true wisdom they reveal,
+    And a wife is fair and honored while her heart is firm and leal.'
+
+What the lord of my life enjoins, that I do.'
+
+'Is such my answer?' asked the attendant.
+
+'It is,' said Lávanyavati.
+
+Upon the messenger reporting her reply to the Prince, he was in despair.
+
+'The God of the five shafts has hit me,' he exclaimed, 'and only her
+presence will cure my wound.'
+
+'We must make her husband bring her, then,' said the messenger.
+
+'That can never be,' replied the Prince.
+
+'It can,' replied the messenger--
+
+    'Fraud may achieve what force would never try:--
+    The Jackal killed the Elephant thereby.'
+
+'How was that?' asked the Prince. The Slave related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE OLD JACKAL AND THE ELEPHANT
+
+"In the forest of Brahma[11] lived an Elephant, whose name was
+'White-front.' The Jackals knew him, and said among themselves, 'If this
+great brute would but die, there would be four months' food for us, and
+plenty, out of his carcase.' With that an old Jackal stood up, and
+pledged himself to compass the death of the Elephant by his own wit.
+Accordingly, he sought for 'White-front,' and, going up to him, he made
+the reverential prostration of the eight members, gravely saluting him.
+
+'Divine creature,' said he, 'vouchsafe me the regard of one look.'
+
+'Who art thou?' grunted the Elephant,'and whence comest thou?'
+
+'I am only a Jackal,' said the other; 'but the beasts of the forest are
+convinced that it is not expedient to live without a king, and they have
+met in full council, and despatched me to acquaint your Royal Highness
+that on you, endowed with so many lordly qualities, their choice has
+fallen for a sovereign over the forest here; for--
+
+    'Who is just, and strong, and wise?
+    Who is true to social ties?
+    He is formed for Emperies.
+
+Let your Majesty, therefore, repair thither at once, that the moment of
+fortunate conjunction may not escape us.' So saying he led the way,
+followed at a great pace by White-front, who was eager to commence his
+reign.
+
+"Presently the Jackal brought him upon a deep slough, into which he
+plunged heavily before he could stop himself.
+
+'Good master Jackal,' cried the Elephant,'what's to do now? I am up to
+my belly in this quagmire.'
+
+'Perhaps your Majesty,' said the Jackal, with an impudent laugh, 'will
+condescend to take hold of the tip of my brush with your trunk, and so
+get out.'
+
+'Then White-front, the Elephant, knew that he had been deceived; and
+thus he sank in the slime, and was devoured by the Jackals. Hence,'
+continued the attendant, 'is why I suggested stratagem to your
+Highness,'
+
+Shortly afterwards, by the Slave's advice, the Prince sent for the
+merchant's son (whose name was Charudatta), and appointed him to be near
+his person; and one day, with the same design, when he was just come
+from the bath, and had on his jewels, he summoned Charudatta, and said--
+
+"I have a vow to keep to Gauri--bring hither to me every evening for a
+month some lady of good family, that I may do honor to her, according to
+my vow; and begin to-day."
+
+Charudatta in due course brought a lady of quality, and, having
+introduced her, retired to watch the interview. The Prince, without even
+approaching his fair visitor, made her the most respectful obeisances,
+and dismissed her with gifts of ornaments, sandal-wood, and perfumes,
+under the protection of a guard. This made Charudatta confident, and
+longing to get some of these princely presents he brought his own wife
+next evening. When the Prince recognized the charming Lávanyavati--the
+joy of his soul--he sprang to meet her, and kissed and caressed her
+without the least restraint. At sight of this the miserable Charudatta
+stood transfixed with despair--the very picture of wretchedness'----
+
+'And you too, Slow-toes--but where is he gone?' abruptly asked King
+Golden-skin.
+
+Now Slow-toes had not chosen to wait the end of the story, but was gone
+before, and Golden-skin and the others followed him up in some anxiety.
+The Tortoise had been painfully travelling along, until a hunter, who
+was beating the wood for game, had overtaken him. The fellow, who was
+very hungry, picked him up, fastened him on his bow-stick, and set off
+for home; while the Deer, the Crow, and the Mouse, who had witnessed
+the capture, followed them in terrible concern. 'Alas!' cried the
+Mouse-king, 'he is gone!--and such a friend!
+
+    'Friend! gracious word!--the heart to tell is ill able
+    Whence came to men this jewel of a syllable.'
+
+'Let us,' continued he to his companions, 'let us make one attempt, at
+least, to rescue Slow-toes before the hunter is out of the wood!'
+
+'Only tell us how to do it,' replied they.
+
+'Do thus,' said Golden-skin: 'let Dapple-back hasten on to the water,
+and lie down there and make himself appear dead; and do you, Light o'
+Leap, hover over him and peck about his body. The hunter is sure to put
+the Tortoise down to get the venison, and I will gnaw his bonds.'
+
+'The Deer and the Crow started at once; and the hunter, who was sitting
+down to rest under a tree and drinking water, soon caught sight of the
+Deer, apparently dead. Drawing his wood-knife, and putting the Tortoise
+down by the water, he hastened to secure the Deer, and Golden-skin, in
+the meantime, gnawed asunder the string that held Slow-toes, who
+instantly dropped into the pool. The Deer, of course, when the hunter
+got near, sprang up and made off, and when he returned to the tree the
+Tortoise was gone also. "I deserve this," thought he--
+
+    'Whoso for greater quits his gain,
+    Shall have his labor for his pain;
+    The things unwon unwon remain,
+    And what was won is lost again.'
+
+And so lamenting, he went to his village. Slow-toes and his friends,
+quit of all fears, repaired together to their new habitations, and there
+lived happily.
+
+Then spake the King Sudarsana's sons, "We have heard every word, and are
+delighted; it fell out just as we wished."
+
+"I rejoice thereat, my Princes," said Vishnu-Sarman; "may it also fall
+out according to this my wish--
+
+    "Lakshmi give you friends like these!
+    Lakshmi keep your lands in ease!
+    Set, your sovereign thrones beside,
+    Policy, a winsome bride!
+    And He, whose forehead-jewel is the moon
+    Give peace to us and all--serene and soon."
+
+
+[3] Used in many religious observances by the Hindoos.
+
+[4] Heaven, earth, and the lower regions.
+
+[5] The Hindoo accounts for the origin of evil by this theory of a
+series of existences continued until the balance is just, and the soul
+has purified itself. Every fault must have its expiation and every
+higher faculty its development; pain and misery being signs of the
+ordeals in the trial, which is to end in the happy re-absorption of the
+emancipated spirit.
+
+[6] The mouse, as vehicle of Gunesh, is an important animal in Hindoo
+legend.
+
+[7] The champak is a bushy tree, bearing a profusion of star-like
+blossoms with golden centres, and of the most pleasing perfume.
+
+[8] A religious observance. The devotee commences the penance at the
+full moon with an allowance of fifteen mouthfuls for his food,
+diminishing this by one mouthful each day, till on the fifteenth it is
+reduced to one. As the new moon increases, his allowance ascends to its
+original proportion.
+
+[9] The wife of Vishnoo, Goddess of beauty and abundance.
+
+[10] The black or Indian cuckoo.
+
+[11] A grove where the Vedas are read and expounded.
+
+
+
+
+THE PARTING OF FRIENDS
+
+Then spake the Royal Princes to Vishnu-Sarman,
+
+"Reverend Sir! we have listened to the 'Winning of Friends,' we would
+now hear how friends are parted."
+
+"Attend, then," replied the Sage, "to 'the Parting of Friends,' the
+first couplet of which runs in this wise--
+
+    'The Jackal set--of knavish cunning full--
+    At loggerheads the Lion and the Bull.'
+
+"How was that?" asked the sons of the Rajah.
+
+Vishnu-Sarman proceeded to relate:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE LION, THE JACKALS, AND THE BULL
+
+"In the Deccan there is a city called Golden-town, and a wealthy
+merchant lived there named Well-to-do. He had abundant means, but as
+many of his relations were even yet richer, his mind was bent: upon
+outdoing them by gaining more. Enough is never what we have--
+
+    'Looking down on lives below them, men of little store are great;
+    Looking up to higher fortunes, hard to each man seems his fate.'
+
+And is not wealth won by courage and enterprise?--
+
+    'As a bride, unwisely wedded, shuns the cold caress of eld,
+    So, from coward souls and slothful, Lakshmi's favors turn repelled.'
+
+    'Ease, ill-health, home-keeping, sleeping, woman-service, and content--
+    In the path that leads to greatness these be six obstructions sent.'
+
+And wealth that increases not, diminishes--a little gain is so far
+good--
+
+    'Seeing how the soorma wasteth, seeing how the ant-hill grows,
+    Little adding unto little--live, give, learn, as life-time goes.'
+
+    'Drops of water falling, falling, falling, brim the chatty o'er;
+    Wisdom comes in little lessons--little gains make largest store.'
+
+Moved by these reflections Well-to-do loaded a cart with wares of all
+kinds, yoked two bulls to it, named Lusty-life and Roarer, and started
+for Kashmir to trade. He had not gone far upon his journey when in
+passing through a great forest called Bramble-wood, Lusty-life slipped
+down and broke his foreleg. At sight of this disaster Well-to-do fell
+a-thinking, and repeated--
+
+    'Men their cunning schemes may spin--
+    God knows who shall lose or win.'
+
+Comforting himself with such philosophy, Well-to-do left Lusty-life
+there, and went on his way. The Bull watched him depart, and stood
+mournfully on three legs, alone in the forest. 'Well, well,' he thought,
+'it is all destiny whether I live or die:--
+
+    'Shoot a hundred shafts, the quarry lives and flies--not due to death;
+    When his hour is come, a grass-blade hath a point to stop his breath.'
+
+As the days passed by, and Lusty-life picked about in the tender forest
+grass, he grew wonderfully well, and fat of carcase, and happy, and
+bellowed about the wood as though it were his own. Now, the reigning
+monarch of the forest was King Tawny-hide the Lion, who ruled over the
+whole country absolutely, by right of having deposed everybody else. Is
+not might right?--
+
+    'Robes were none, nor oil of unction, when the King of Beasts was
+            crowned:--
+    'Twas his own fierce roar proclaimed him, rolling all his kingdom
+            round.'
+
+One morning, his Majesty, being exceedingly thirsty, had repaired to the
+bank of the Jumna to drink water, and just as he was about to lap it,
+the bellow of Lusty-life, awful as the thunder of the last day, reached
+the imperial ears. Upon catching the sound the King retreated in
+trepidation to his own lair, without drinking a drop, and stood there in
+silence and alarm revolving what it could mean. In this position he was
+observed by the sons of his minister, two jackals named Karataka and
+Damanaka, who began to remark upon it.
+
+'Friend Karataka,' said the last,'what makes our royal master slink away
+from the river when he was dying to drink?'
+
+'Why should we care?' replied Karataka. 'It's bad enough to serve him,
+and be neglected for our pains--
+
+    'Oh, the bitter salt of service!--toil, frost, fire, are not so keen:--
+    Half such heavy penance bearing, tender consciences were clean.'
+
+'Nay, friend! never think thus,' said Damanaka--
+
+    'What but for their vassals,
+    Elephant and man--
+    Swing of golden tassels,
+    Wave of silken fan--
+    But for regal manner
+    That the "Chattra"[12] brings,
+    Horse, and foot, and banner--
+    What would come of kings?'
+
+'I care not,' replied Karataka; 'we have nothing to do with it, and
+matters that don't concern us are best left alone. You know the story of
+the Monkey, don't you?'--
+
+    'The Monkey drew the sawyer's wedge, and died:--
+    Let meddlers mark it, and be edified.'
+
+'No!' said Damanaka. 'How was it?'
+
+'In this way,' answered Karataka:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE MONKEY AND THE WEDGE
+
+"In South Behar, close by the retreat of Dhurmma, there was an open plot
+of ground, upon which a temple was in course of erection, under the
+management of a man of the Káyeth caste, named Subhadatta. A carpenter
+upon the works had partly sawed through a long beam of wood, and wedged
+it open, and was gone away, leaving the wedge fixed. Shortly afterwards
+a large herd of monkeys came frolicking that way, and one of their
+number, directed doubtless by the Angel of death, got astride the beam,
+and grasped the wedge, with his tail and lower parts dangling down
+between the pieces of the wood. Not content with this, in the mischief
+natural to monkeys, he began to tug at the wedge; till at last it
+yielded to a great effort and came out; when the wood closed upon him,
+and jammed him all fast. So perished the monkey, miserably crushed; and
+I say again--
+
+    'Let meddlers mark it, and be edified.'
+
+'But surely,' argued Damanaka, 'servants are bound to watch the
+movements of their masters!'
+
+'Let the prime minister do it, then,' answered Karataka; 'it is his
+business to overlook things, and subordinates shouldn't interfere in the
+department of their chief. You might get ass's thanks for it--
+
+    'The Ass that hee-hawed, when the dog should do it,
+    For his lord's welfare, like an ass did rue it.'
+
+Damanaka asked how that happened, and Karataka related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE WASHERMAN'S JACKASS
+
+"There was a certain Washerman at Benares, whose name was Carpúrapataka,
+and he had an Ass and a Dog in his courtyard; the first tethered, and
+the last roaming loose. Once on a time, when he had been spending his
+morning in the society of his wife, whom he had just married, and had
+fallen to sleep in her arms, a robber entered the house, and began to
+carry off his goods. The Ass observed the occupation of the thief, and
+was much concerned.
+
+'Good Dog,' said he, 'this is thy matter: why dost thou not bark aloud,
+and rouse the master?'
+
+'Gossip Ass,' replied the Dog, 'leave me alone to guard the premises. I
+can do it, if I choose; but the truth is, this master of ours thinks
+himself so safe lately that he clean forgets me, and I don't find my
+allowance of food nearly regular enough. Masters will do so; and a
+little fright will put him in mind of his defenders again.'
+
+'Thou scurvy cur!' exclaimed the Ass--
+
+'At the work-time, asking wages--is it like a faithful herd?'
+
+'Thou extreme Ass!' replied the Dog.
+
+'When the work's done, grudging wages--is that acting like a lord?'
+
+'Mean-spirited beast,' retorted the Ass, 'who neglectest thy master's
+business! Well, then, I at least will endeavor to arouse him; it is no
+less than religion,
+
+    'Serve the Sun with sweat of body; starve thy maw to feed the flame;
+    Stead thy lord with all thy service; to thy death go, quit of blame.'
+
+So saying, he put forth his very best braying. The Washerman sprang up
+at the noise, and missing the thief, turned in a rage upon the Ass for
+disturbing him, and beat it with a cudgel to such an extent that the
+blows resolved the poor animal into the five elements of death. 'So
+that,' continued Karataka, 'is why I say, Let the prime minister look to
+him. The hunting for prey is our duty--let us stick to it, then. And
+this,' he said, with a meditative look, 'need not trouble us to-day; for
+we have a capital dish of the royal leavings.'
+
+'What!' said Damanaka, rough with rage, 'dost thou serve the King for
+the sake of thy belly? Why take any such trouble to preserve an
+existence like thine?--
+
+    'Many prayers for him are uttered whereon many a life relies;
+    'Tis but one poor fool the fewer when the gulping Raven dies.'
+
+For assisting friends, and defeating enemies also, the service of kings
+is desirable. To enter upon it for a mere living makes the thing low
+indeed. There must be dogs and elephants; but servants need not be like
+hungry curs, while their masters are noble. What say the books?
+
+    'Give thy Dog the merest mouthful, and he crouches at thy feet,
+    Wags his tail, and fawns, and grovels, in his eagerness to eat;
+    Bid the Elephant be feeding, and the best of fodder bring;
+    Gravely--after much entreaty--condescends that mighty king.'
+
+'Well, well!' said Karataka; 'the books are nothing to us, who are not
+councillors.'
+
+'But we may come to be,' replied Damanaka; 'men rise, not by chance or
+nature, but by exertions--
+
+    'By their own deeds men go downward, by them men mount upward all,
+    Like the diggers of a well, and like the builders of a wall.'
+
+Advancement is slow--but that is in the nature of things--
+
+    'Rushes down the hill the crag, which upward 'twas so hard to roll:
+    So to virtue slowly rises--so to vice quick sinks the soul.'
+
+'Very good,' observed Karataka; 'but what is all this talk about?'
+
+'Why! don't you see our Royal Master there, and how he came home without
+drinking? I know he has been horribly frightened,' said Damanaka.
+
+'How do you know it?' asked the other.
+
+'By my perception--at a glance!' replied Damanaka; 'and I mean to make
+out of this occasion that which shall put his Majesty at my disposal,'
+
+'Now,' exclaimed Karataka, 'it is thou who art ignorant about service--
+
+    'Who speaks unasked, or comes unbid,
+    Or counts on favor--will be chid.'
+
+'I ignorant about service!' said Damanaka; 'no, no, my friend, I know
+the secret of it--
+
+    'Wise, modest, constant, ever close at hand,
+    Not weighing but obeying all command,
+    Such servant by a Monarch's throne may stand.'
+
+'In any case, the King often rates thee,' remarked Karataka, 'for coming
+to the presence unsummoned.'
+
+'A dependent,' replied Damanaka, 'should nevertheless present himself;
+he must make himself known to the great man, at any risk--
+
+    'Pitiful, that fearing failure, therefore no beginning makes,
+    Who forswears his daily dinner for the chance of stomach-aches?'
+
+and besides, to be near is at last to be needful;--is it not said--
+
+    'Nearest to the King is dearest, be thy merit low or high;
+    Women, creeping plants, and princes, twine round that which groweth
+            nigh.'
+
+'Well,' inquired Karataka, 'what wilt thou say, being come to him?'
+
+'First,' replied Damanaka, 'I will discover if his Majesty is well
+affected to me.'
+
+'How do you compass that?' asked the other.
+
+'Oh, easily! by a look, a word,' answered Damanaka; 'and that
+ascertained, I will proceed to speak what will put him at my disposal.'
+
+'I can't see how you can venture to speak,' objected the other,
+'without an opportunity--
+
+    'If Vrihaspati, the Grave,
+      Spoke a sentence out of season,
+    Even Vrihaspati would have
+      Strong rebuke for such unreason.'
+
+'Pray don't imagine I shall speak unseasonably,' interrupted Damanaka;
+'if that is all you fear, I will start at once.'
+
+'Go, then,' said Karataka; 'and may you be as lucky as you hope.'
+
+"Thereupon Damanaka set out for the lair of King Tawny-hide; putting on,
+as he approached it, the look of one greatly disconcerted. The Rajah
+observed him coming, and gave permission that he should draw near; of
+which Damanaka availing himself, made reverential prostration of the
+eight members and sat down upon his haunches.
+
+'You have come at last, then, Sir Jackal!' growled his Majesty.
+
+'Great Monarch!' humbly replied Damanaka, 'my service is not worthy of
+laying at your imperial feet, but a servant should attend when he can
+perform a service, and therefore I am come--
+
+    'When Kings' ears itch, they use a straw to scratch 'em;
+    When Kings' foes plot, they get wise men to match 'em.'
+
+'H'm!' growled the Lion.
+
+'Your Majesty suspects my intellect, I fear,' continued the
+Jackal,'after so long an absence from your Majesty's feet; but, if I may
+say so, it is still sound.'
+
+'H'm!' growled the Lion again.
+
+'A king, may it please your Majesty, should know how to estimate his
+servants, whatever their position--
+
+    'Pearls are dull in leaden settings, but the setter is to blame;
+    Glass will glitter like the ruby, dulled with dust--are they the same?
+
+    'And a fool may tread on jewels, setting in his crown mere glass;
+    Yet, at selling, gems are gems, and fardels but for fardels pass.'
+
+'Servants, gracious liege! are good or bad as they are entertained. Is
+it not written?--
+
+    'Horse and weapon, lute and volume, man and woman, gift of speech,
+    Have their uselessness or uses in the One who owneth each.'
+
+'And if I have been traduced to your Majesty as a dull fellow, that hath
+not made me so--
+
+    'Not disparagement nor slander kills the spirit of the brave;
+    Fling a torch down, upward ever burns the brilliant flame it gave.'
+
+'Accept then, Sire, from the humblest of your slaves his very humble
+counsel--for
+
+    'Wisdom from the mouth of children be it overpast of none;
+    What man scorns to walk by lamplight in the absence of the sun?'
+
+'Good Damanaka,' said King Tawny-hide, somewhat appeased, 'how is it
+that thou, so wise a son of our first minister, hast been absent all
+this while from our Court? But now speak thy mind fearlessly: what
+wouldst thou?'
+
+'Will your Majesty deign to answer one question?' said Damanaka.
+'Wherefore came He back from the river without drinking?'
+
+'Hush!' whispered the King, 'thou hast hit right upon my trouble. I knew
+no one unto whom I might confide it; but thou seemest a faithful fellow,
+and I will tell thee. Listen, then,' continued his Majesty in an
+agitated whisper, 'there is some awful beast that was never seen before
+in this wood here; and we shall have to leave it, look you. Did you hear
+by chance the inconceivable great roar he gave? What a strong beast it
+must be to have such a voice!'
+
+'May it please your Majesty, I did hear the noise,' said the Jackal,
+'and there is doubtless cause for terrible apprehension therein; but
+take comfort, my Liege, he is no minister who bids thee prepare for
+either war or resignation. All will go well, and your Majesty will learn
+by this difficulty which be your best servants,'
+
+'Good Jackal,' said Tawny-hide, 'I am horribly frightened about it.'
+
+'I can see that,' thought Damanaka; but he only said, 'Fear nothing, my
+liege, while thy servant survives,'
+
+'What shall I do?' asked the King.
+
+'It is well to encourage those who can avert disaster. If your Majesty
+condescended now to bestow some favor on Karataka and the other----'
+
+'It shall be done,' said the Rajah; and, summoning the other Jackals, he
+gave them and Damanaka a magnificent gift of flesh, and they left the
+presence, undertaking to meet the threatened danger.
+
+'But, brother,' began Karataka,'haven't we eaten the King's dinner
+without knowing what the danger is which we are to meet, and whether we
+can obviate it?'
+
+'Hold thy peace,' said Damanaka, laughing; 'I know very well what the
+danger is! It was a bull, aha! that bellowed--a bull, my brother--whose
+beef you and I could pick, much more the King our master.'
+
+'And why not tell him so?' asked Karataka.
+
+'What! and quiet his Majesty's fears! And where would our splendid
+dinner have been then? No, no, my friend--
+
+    'Set not your lord at ease; for, doing that,
+    Might starve you as it starved "Curd-ear" the Cat.'
+
+'Who was Curd-ear, the Cat?' inquired Karataka. Damanaka related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE CAT WHO SERVED THE LION
+
+"Far away in the North, on a mountain named 'Thousand-Crags,' there
+lived a lion called 'Mighty-heart'; and he was much annoyed by a certain
+mouse, who made a custom of nibbling his mane while he lay asleep in his
+den. The Lion would wake in a great rage at finding the ends of his
+magnificent mane made ragged, but the little mouse ran into his hole,
+and he could never catch it. After much consideration he went down to a
+village, and got a Cat named Curd-ear to come to his cave with much
+persuasion. He kept the Cat royally on all kinds of dainties, and slept
+comfortably without having his mane nibbled, as the mouse would now
+never venture out. Whenever the Lion heard the mouse scratching about,
+that was always a signal for regaling the Cat in a most distinguished
+style. But one day, the wretched mouse being nearly starved, he took
+courage to creep timidly from his hole, and was directly pounced upon by
+Curd-ear and killed. After that the Lion heard no more of the mouse, and
+quite left off his regular entertainments of the Cat. No!" concluded
+Damanaka, "we will keep our mouse alive for his Majesty."
+
+So conversing, the Jackals went away to find Lusty-life the Bull, and
+upon discovering him, Karataka squatted down with great dignity at the
+foot of a tree, while Damanaka approached to accost him.
+
+'Bull,' said Damanaka, 'I am the warder of this forest under the King
+Tawny-hide, and Karataka the Jackal there is his General. The General
+bids thee come before him, or else instantly depart from the wood. It
+were better for thee to obey, for his anger is terrible,'
+
+'Thereupon Lusty-life, knowing nothing of the country customs, advanced
+at once to Karataka, made the respectful prostration of the eight
+members, and said timidly, 'My Lord General! what dost thou bid me do?--
+
+    'Strength serves Reason. Saith the Mahout, when he beats the brazen
+            drum,
+    "Ho! ye elephants, to this work must your mightinesses come."'
+
+'Bull,' answered Karataka, 'thou canst remain in the wood no longer
+unless thou goest directly to lay thyself at our Royal master's imperial
+feet.'
+
+'My Lord,' replied the Bull, 'give me a guarantee of safety, and I will
+go.'
+
+'Bull,' said Karataka, 'thou art foolish; fear nothing--
+
+    "When the King of Chedi cursed him,
+      Krishna scorned to make reply;
+    Lions roar the thunder quiet,
+      Jackals'-yells they let go by."
+
+Our Lord the King will not vouchsafe his anger to thee; knowest thou
+not--
+
+    'Mighty natures war with mighty: when the raging tempests blow,
+    O'er the green rice harmless pass they, but they lay the palm-trees
+            low,'
+
+'So the Jackals, keeping Lusty-life in the rear, went towards the palace
+of King Tawny-hide; where the Rajah received them with much
+graciousness, and bade them sit down.
+
+'Have you seen him?' asked the King.
+
+'We have seen him, your Majesty,' answered Damanaka; 'it is quite as
+your Majesty expected--the creature has enormous strength, and wishes
+to see your Majesty. Will you be seated, Sire, and prepare yourself--it
+will never do to appear alarmed at a noise.'
+
+'Oh, if it was only a noise,' began the Rajah.
+
+'Ah, but the cause, Sire! that was what had to be found out; like the
+secret of Swing-ear the Spirit.'
+
+'And who might Swing-ear be?' asked the King.
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE TERRIBLE BELL
+
+"A goblin, your Majesty," responded Damanaka, "it seemed so, at least,
+to the good people of Brahmapoora. A thief had stolen a bell from the
+city, and was making off with that plunder, and more, into the
+Sri-parvata hills, when he was killed by a tiger. The bell lay in the
+jungle till some monkeys picked it up, and amused themselves by
+constantly ringing it. The townspeople found the bones of the man, and
+heard the noise of the bell all about the hills; so they gave out that
+there was a terrible devil there, whose ears rang like bells as he swung
+them about, and whose delight was to devour men. Every one, accordingly,
+was leaving the town, when a peasant woman named Karála, who liked
+belief the better for a little proof, came to the Rajah.
+
+'Highness!' she observed, 'for a consideration I could settle this
+Swing-ear.'
+
+'You could!' exclaimed the Rajah.
+
+'I think so!' repeated the woman.
+
+'Give her a consideration forthwith,' said the Rajah.
+
+"Karála, who had her own ideas upon the matter, took the present and set
+out. Being come to the hills, she made a circle, and did homage to
+Gunputtee,[13] without whom nothing prospers. Then, taking some fruit
+she had brought, such as monkeys love extremely, she scattered it up and
+down in the wood, and withdrew to watch. Very soon the monkeys finding
+the fruit, put down the bell, to do justice to it, and the woman picking
+it up, bore it back to the town, where she became an object of uncommon
+veneration. We, indeed," concluded Damanaka, "bring you a Bull instead
+of a bell--your Majesty shall now see him!"
+
+"Thereupon Lusty-life was introduced, and, the interview passing off
+well, he remained many days in the forest on excellent terms with the
+Lion.
+
+'One day another Lion, named 'Stiff-ears,' the brother of King
+Tawny-hide, came to visit him. The King received him with all imaginable
+respect, bade him be seated, and rose from his throne to go and kill
+some beasts for his refreshment.
+
+'May it please your Majesty,' interposed the Bull, 'a deer was slain
+to-day--where is its flesh?'
+
+'Damanaka and his brother know best,' said the King.
+
+'Let us ascertain if there be any,' suggested the Bull.
+
+'It is useless,' said the King, laughing--'they leave none,'
+
+'What!' exclaimed the Bull, 'have those Jackals eaten a whole deer?'
+
+'Eaten it, spoiled it, and given it away,' answered Tawny-hide; 'they
+always do so,'
+
+'And this without your Majesty's sanction?' asked the Bull.
+
+'Oh! certainly not with my sanction,' said the King.
+
+'Then,' exclaimed the Bull, 'it is too bad: and in Ministers too!--
+
+    'Narrow-necked to let out little, big of belly to keep much,
+    As a flagon is--the Vizir of a Sultan should be such.'
+
+'No wealth will stand such waste, your Majesty--
+
+    'He who thinks a minute little, like a fool misuses more;
+    He who counts a cowry nothing, being wealthy, will be poor.'
+
+'A king's treasury, my liege, is the king's life.'
+
+'Good brother,' observed Stiff-ears, who had heard what the Bull said,
+'these Jackals are your Ministers of Home and Foreign Affairs--they
+should not have direction of the Treasury. They are old servants, too,
+and you know the saying--
+
+    'Brahmans, soldiers, these and kinsmen--of the three set none in
+            charge:
+    For the Brahman, tho' you rack him, yields no treasure small or large;
+    And the soldier, being trusted, writes his quittance with his sword,
+    And the kinsman cheats his kindred by the charter of the word;
+    But a servant old in service, worse than any one is thought,
+    Who, by long-tried license fearless, knows his master's anger nought.'
+
+Ministers, my royal brother, are often like obstinate swellings that
+want squeezing, and yours must be kept in order.'
+
+'They are not particularly obedient, I confess,' said Tawny-hide.
+
+'It is very wrong,' replied Stiff-ears; 'and if you will be advised by
+me--as we have banqueted enough to-day--you will appoint this
+grain-eating and sagacious Bull your Superintendent of Stores.'
+
+'It shall be so,' exclaimed the King.
+
+'Lusty-life was accordingly appointed to serve out the provisions, and
+for many days Tawny-hide showed him favor beyond all others in the
+Court.
+
+"Now the Jackals soon found that food was no longer so freely provided
+by this arrangement as before, and they met to consult about it.
+
+'It is all our own fault,' said Damanaka, 'and people must suffer for
+their own mistakes. You know who said--
+
+    "I that could not leave alone
+    'Streak-o'-Gold,' must therefore moan.
+    She that took the House-wife's place
+    Lost the nose from off her face.
+    Take this lesson to thy heart--
+    Fools for folly suffer smart."
+
+'No!' said Karataka, 'how was it?' Damanaka related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE PRINCE AND THE PROCURESS
+
+"In the city of 'Golden-Streets' there reigned a valorous King, named
+Vira-vikrama, whose officer of justice was one day taking away to
+punishment a certain Barber, when he was stopped by a strolling
+mendicant, who held him by the skirts, and cried out, 'Punish not this
+man--punish them that do wrong of their own knowledge.' Being asked his
+meaning, he recited the foregoing verses, and, being still further
+questioned, he told this story--
+
+"I am Prince Kandarpa-ketu, son of the King of Ceylon. Walking one day
+in my summer-garden, I heard a merchant-captain narrating how that out
+at sea, deep under water, on the fourteenth day of the moon, he had seen
+what was like nothing but the famous tree of Paradise, and sitting under
+it a lady of most lustrous beauty, bedecked with strings of pearls like
+Lukshmi herself, reclining, with a lute in her hands, on what appeared
+to be a golden couch crusted all over with precious stones. At once I
+engaged the captain and his ship, and steered to the spot of which he
+told me. On reaching it I beheld the beautiful apparition as he had
+described it, and, transported with the exquisite beauty of the lady, I
+leapt after her into the sea. In a moment I found myself in a city of
+gold; and in an apartment of a golden palace, surrounded by young and
+beautiful girls, I found the Sea-queen. She perceived my approach, and
+sent an attendant with a courteous message to meet me. In reply to my
+questions, I learned that the lady was the Princess Ratnamanjari,
+daughter of the King of All the Spirits--and how she had made a vow that
+whoever should first come to see her golden city, with his own eyes,
+should marry her. So I married her by the form called Gundharva, or
+'Union by mutual consent,' and spent many and happy days in her
+delightful society. One day she took me aside, and said, 'Dear Prince!
+all these delights, and I myself, are thine to enjoy; only that picture
+yonder, of the Fairy Streak-o'-Gold, that thou must never touch!' For a
+long time I observed this injunction; at last, impelled by resistless
+curiosity, I laid my hand on the picture of 'Streak-o'-Gold,' In one
+instant her little foot, lovely as the lotus-blossom, advanced from out
+of the painting, and launched me through sea and air into my own
+country. Since that I have been a miserable wanderer; and passing
+through this city, I chanced to lodge at a Cowkeeper's hut, and saw the
+truth of this Barber's affair. The herdsman returned at night with his
+cattle, and found his wife talking with the wife of the Barber, who is
+no better than a bawd. Enraged at this, the man beat his wife, tied her
+to the milking-post, and fell asleep. In the dead of the night the
+Barber's wife came back, and said to the woman, 'He, whom thou knowest,
+is burnt with the cruel fire of thine absence, and lies nigh to death;
+go therefore and console him, and I will tie myself to the post until
+thou returnest.' This was done, and the Cowkeeper presently awoke. 'Ah!
+thou light thing!' he said jeeringly, 'why dost not thou keep promise,
+and meet thy gallant?' The Barber's wife could make no reply; whereat
+becoming incensed, the man cried out, 'What! dost thou scorn to speak to
+me? I will cut thy nose off!' And so he did, and then lay down to sleep
+again. Very soon the Cowkeeper's wife came back and asked if 'all was
+well.' 'Look at my face!' said the Barber's wife, 'and you will see if
+all is well.' The woman could do nothing but take her place again,
+while the Barber's wife, picking up the severed nose, and at a sad loss
+how to account for it, went to her house. In the morning, before it was
+light, the Barber called to her to bring his box of razors, and she
+bringing one only, he flung it away in a passion. 'Oh, the knave!' she
+cried out, directly, aloud, 'Neighbors, neighbors! he has cut my nose
+off!' and so she took him before the officers. The Cowkeeper, meantime,
+wondering at his wife's patience, made some inquiry about her nose;
+whereto she replied, 'Cruel wretch! thou canst not harm a virtuous
+woman. If Yama and the seven guardians of the world know me chaste, then
+be my face unmaimed!' The herdsman hastened to fetch a light, and
+finding her features unaltered, he flung himself at her feet, and begged
+forgiveness. For,
+
+    'Never tires the fire of burning, never wearies death of slaying,
+    Nor the sea of drinking rivers, nor the bright-eyed of betraying,'
+
+Thereupon the King's officer dismissed Kandarpa-ketu, and did justice by
+setting the Barber free, shaving the head of the Barber's wife, and
+punishing the Cowkeeper's.
+
+'That is my story,' concluded Damanaka, 'and thence I said that we had
+no reason to complain.'
+
+'Well, but we must do something,' said Karataka.
+
+'Yes! How shall we break the friendship of the King with the Bull?'
+asked the other.
+
+'It is very strong,' observed Karataka.
+
+'But we can do it,' replied the other.
+
+    'What force would fail to win, fraud can attain:--
+    The Crow despatched the Serpent by a chain.'
+
+'How did that occur?' asked Karataka.
+
+Damanaka related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE BLACK SNAKE AND THE GOLDEN CHAIN
+
+"A pair of Crows had their abode in a certain tree, the hollow of which
+was occupied by a black snake, who had often devoured their young. The
+Hen-bird, finding herself breeding again, thus addressed her mate:
+'Husband, we must leave this tree; we shall never rear young ones while
+this black snake lives here! You know the saw--
+
+    'From false friends that breed thee strife,
+    From a house with serpents rife,
+    Saucy slaves and brawling wife--
+    Get thee out, to save thy life.'
+
+'My dear,' replied the Crow, 'you need not fear; I have put up with him
+till I am tired. Now I will put an end to him.'
+
+'How can you fight with a great black snake like that?' said the
+Hen-bird.
+
+'Doubt nothing,' answered the other--
+
+    'He that hath sense hath strength; the fool is weak:--
+    The Lion proud died by the Hare so meek,'
+
+'How came that about?' asked the Hen-Crow.
+
+'Thus,' replied her mate:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE LION AND THE OLD HARE
+
+"On the Mandara mountain there lived a Lion named Fierce-of-heart, and
+he was perpetually making massacre of all the wild animals. The thing
+grew so bad that the beasts held a public meeting, and drew up a
+respectful remonstrance to the Lion in these words:--
+
+"Wherefore should your Majesty thus make carnage of us all? If it may
+please you, we ourselves will daily furnish a beast for your Majesty's
+meal." The Lion responded, "If that arrangement is more agreeable to
+you, be it so."; and from that time a beast was allotted to him daily,
+and daily devoured. One day it came to the turn of an old hare to supply
+the royal table, who reflected to himself as he walked along, "I can but
+die, and I will go to my death leisurely."
+
+"Now Fierce-of-heart, the lion, was pinched with hunger, and seeing the
+Hare so approaching he roared out, "How darest thou thus delay in
+coming?"
+
+'Sire,' replied the Hare, 'I am not to blame. I was detained on the road
+by another lion, who exacted an oath from me to return when I should
+have informed your Majesty.'
+
+'Go,' exclaimed King Fierce-of-heart in a rage; 'show me, instantly,
+where this insolent villain of a lion lives.'
+
+"The Hare led the way accordingly till he came to a deep well, whereat
+he stopped, and said, 'Let my lord the King come hither and behold him.'
+The Lion approached, and beheld his own reflection in the water of the
+well, upon which, in his passion, he directly flung himself, and so
+perished."
+
+"I have heard your story," said the Hen-Crow, "but what plan do you
+propose?"
+
+"My dear," replied her mate, "the Rajah's son comes here every day to
+bathe in the stream. When he takes off his gold anklet, and lays it on
+the stone, do thou bring it in thy beak to the hollow of the tree, and
+drop it in there." Shortly after the Prince came, as was his wont, and
+taking off his dress and ornaments, the Hen-Crow did as had been
+determined; and while the servants of the Prince were searching in the
+hollow, there they found the Black Snake, which they at once dispatched.
+
+'Said I not well,' continued Damanaka, 'that stratagem excels force?'
+
+'It was well said,' replied Karataka; 'go! and may thy path be
+prosperous!
+
+'With that Damanaka repaired to the King, and having done homage, thus
+addressed him:--
+
+"Your Majesty, there is a dreadful thing on my mind, and I am come to
+disclose it."
+
+'Speak!' said the King, with much graciousness.
+
+'Your Majesty,' said the Jackal, 'this Bull has been detected of
+treason. To my face he has spoken contemptuously of the three
+prerogatives of the throne,[14] unto which he aspires.'
+
+"At these words King Tawny-hide stood aghast.
+
+'Your Majesty,' continued Damanaka, 'has placed him above us all in the
+Court. Sire! he must be displaced!--
+
+    'Teeth grown loose, and wicked-hearted ministers, and poison-trees,
+    Pluck them by the roots together; 'Tis the thing that giveth ease,'
+
+'Good Jackal,' said the King, after some silence; 'this is indeed
+dreadful; but my regard for the Bull is very great, and it is said--
+
+    'Long-tried friends are friends to cleave to--never leave thou these
+            i' the lurch:--
+    What man shuns the fire as sinful for that once it burned a church?'
+
+'That is written of discarding old servants, may it please your
+Majesty,' observed Damanaka; 'and this Bull is quite a stranger,'
+
+'Wondrous strange!' replied the Lion; 'when I have advanced and
+protected him that he should plot against me!'
+
+'Your Majesty,' said the Jackal, 'knows what has been written--
+
+    'Raise an evil soul to honor, and his evil bents remain;
+    Bind a cur's tail ne'er so straightly, yet it curleth up again.'
+
+    'How, in sooth, should Trust and Honor change the evil nature's root?
+    Though one watered them with nectar, poison-trees bear deadly fruit.'
+
+I have now at least warned your Majesty: if evil comes, the fault is not
+mine,'
+
+'It will not do to condemn the Bull without inquiry,' mused the King;
+then he said aloud, 'shall we admonish him, think you, Damanaka?'
+
+'No, no, Sire!' exclaimed the Jackal, eagerly; 'that would spoil all our
+precautions--
+
+    'Safe within the husk of silence guard the seed of counsel so
+    That it break not--being broken, then the seedling will not grow,'
+
+What is to be done must be done with despatch. After censuring his
+treason, would your Majesty still trust the traitor?--
+
+    'Whoso unto ancient fondness takes again a faithless friend,
+    Like she-mules that die conceiving, in his folly finds his end,'
+
+'But wherein can the Bull injure me?' asked Tawny-hide; 'tell me that!'
+
+'Sire,' replied the Jackal, how can I tell it?--
+
+    'Ask who his friends are, ere you scorn your foe;
+    The Wagtail foiled the sea, that did not so,'
+
+'How could that be?' demanded King Tawny-hide.
+
+'The Jackal related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE WAGTAIL AND THE SEA
+
+"On the shore of the Southern Sea there dwelt a pair of Wagtails. The
+Hen-bird was about to lay, and thus addressed her mate:--
+
+'Husband, we must look about for a fit place to lay my eggs.'
+
+'My dear,' replied the Cock-bird, 'will not this spot do?'
+
+'This spot!' exclaimed the Hen; 'why, the tide overflows it.'
+
+'Good dame,' said the Cock, 'am I so pitiful a fellow that the Sea will
+venture to wash the eggs out of my nest?'
+
+'You are my very good Lord,' replied the Hen, with a laugh; 'but still
+there is a great difference between you and the Sea.'
+
+"Afterwards, however, at the desire of her mate, she consented to lay
+her eggs on the sea-beach. Now the Ocean had overheard all this, and,
+bent upon displaying its strength, it rose and washed away the nest and
+eggs. Overwhelmed with grief, the Hen-bird flew to her mate, and
+cried:--
+
+'Husband, the terrible disaster has occurred! My eggs arc gone!'
+
+'Be of good heart! my Life,' answered he.
+
+"And therewith he called a meeting of fowls, and went with them into the
+presence of Gurud, the Lord of the birds. When the Master of the Mighty
+Wing had listened to their complaint, he conveyed it to the knowledge of
+the God Narayen, who keeps, and kills, and makes alive the world. The
+almighty mandate given, Gurud bound it upon his forehead, and bore it to
+the Ocean, which, so soon as it heard the will of Narayen, at once gave
+back the eggs.
+
+'How, indeed,' concluded Damanaka, 'should I judge of the Bull's power,
+not knowing who supports him?'
+
+'By what signs, then,' asked the King, 'may I conclude him a traitor?'
+
+'If he comes into the presence with his horns lowered for goring, as one
+that expects the fight. That,' replied the Jackal, 'will convince your
+Majesty,'
+
+'Thereupon Damanaka the Jackal withdrew, and betook himself towards the
+Bull, upon perceiving whom he approached slowly, with all the air of one
+greatly distressed.
+
+'Good master Jackal,' said Lusty-life, 'what goes amiss with thee?'
+
+'All goes amiss with such as serve wicked masters,' replied the Jackal.
+
+'But what ails thee?' asked the Bull.
+
+'Alas!' answered the Jackal, 'what can I say in such a strait!--
+
+    'Even as one who grasps a serpent, drowning in the bitter sea,
+    Death to hold and death to loosen--such is life's perplexity.'
+
+'And therewithal the Jackal heaved a deep sigh, and squatted down.
+
+'But, good friend,' said the Bull, 'at least tell me what is in thy
+mind.'
+
+'Bull,' began Damanaka, 'it is a King's secret, and should not be
+spoken; but thou didst come here upon my safeguard, and as I hope for
+the life to come, I will tell thee of what touches thee so nearly.
+Listen!--the heart of the King is turned against thee! he hath sworn
+secretly that he will kill thee and feast upon thy flesh.'
+
+'Then Lusty-life the Bull was sorely troubled, and he fell a-musing
+thus--
+
+    "Woman's love rewards the worthless--kings of knaves exalters be;
+    Wealth attends the selfish niggard, and the cloud rains on the sea."
+
+'Can this be the Jackal's doing?' he reflected. Going with honest folk
+will not make one honest--
+
+    'Many a knave wins fair opinions standing in fair company,
+    As the sooty soorma pleases, lighted by a brilliant eye.'
+
+Then he said aloud, 'wherein can I have angered the King? Do kings hate
+without cause? I can tell nothing, except that there is no happiness
+which abides long--
+
+    'Where the azure lotus[15] blossoms, there the alligators hide;
+    In the sandal-tree are serpents. Pain and pleasure live allied.'
+
+I thought his Majesty noble as the sandal-tree; but that, indeed, is not
+wholly noble--
+
+    'Rich the sandal--yet no part is but a vile thing habits there;
+    Snake and wasp haunt root and blossom; on the boughs sit ape and bear.'
+
+'Bull,' said Damanaka, 'I knew the King of old for one whose tongue was
+honey and whose heart was poison.'
+
+'But how very hard!' said the Bull, 'that he, being a lion, should
+attack me, an innocent eater of grass!'
+
+'It is very hard!' said the Jackal.
+
+'Who can have set him against me?' asked the Bull.
+
+'Being so, it cannot be bettered,' replied the Jackal, 'whoever did it--
+
+    'As a bracelet of crystal, once broke, is not mended;
+    So the favor of princes, once altered, is ended.'
+
+'Yes,' said the Bull, 'and a king incensed is terrible--
+
+    'Wrath of kings, and rage of lightning--both be very full of dread;
+    But one falls on one man only--one strikes many victims dead,'
+
+Still, I can but die--and I will die fighting! When death is certain,
+and no hope left but in battle, that is the time for war,'
+
+'It is so,' said the Jackal.
+
+'Having weighed all this, Lusty-life inquired of the Jackal by what
+signs he might conclude the King's hostile intentions.
+
+'If he glowers upon thee,' answered Damanaka, 'and awaits thee with ears
+pricked, tail stiffened, paw upraised, and muzzle agape, then thou
+mayest get thee to thy weapons like a Bull of spirit, for
+
+    'All men scorn the soulless coward who his manhood doth forget:--
+    On a lifeless heap of ashes fearlessly the foot is set,'
+
+'Then Damanaka the Jackal returned to the Lion, and said to him:--
+
+'If it please your Majesty, the traitor is now coming; let your Majesty
+be on your guard, with ears pricked and paw upraised.'
+
+'The Bull meanwhile approached, and observing the hostile attitude of
+King Tawny-hide, he also lowered his horns, and prepared for the combat.
+A terrible battle ensued, and at the last King Tawny-hide slew
+Lusty-life the Bull. Now when the Bull was dead, the Lion was very
+sorrowful, and as he sat on his throne lamenting, he said--
+
+'I repent me of this deed!--
+
+    'As when an Elephant's life-blood is spilt,
+    Another hath the spoils--mine is the guilt.'
+
+'Sire,' replied the Jackal, 'a King over-merciful is like a Brahman
+that eats all things equally. May all your Majesty's enemies perish as
+did this Bull.'
+
+"Thus endeth," said the Sage Vishnu-Sarman, "the 'Parting of Friends.'"
+
+"We are gratified exceedingly thereby," replied the Sons of the King.
+
+"Let me then close it thus," said their Preceptor--
+
+      'So be friendship never parted,
+      But among the evil-hearted;
+      Time's sure step drag, soon or later,
+      To his judgment, such a Traitor;
+      Lady Lukshmi, of her grace,
+      Grant good fortune to this place;
+    And you, Royal boys! and boys of times to be
+    In this fair fable-garden wander free.'
+
+
+[12] The white umbrella borne above the heads of Indian rajahs.
+
+[13] The deity of prudence.
+
+[14] Regal authority derives its rights from three sources: Power,
+Prescription or continuance, and Wisdom.
+
+[15] The lotus resembles the water-lily, but is more varied in form and
+color.
+
+
+
+
+WAR
+
+
+When the next day of instruction was come, the King's sons spake to the
+Sage, Vishnu-Sarman.
+
+"Master," said they, "we are Princes, and the sons of Princes, and we
+earnestly desire to hear thee discourse upon War."
+
+"I am to speak on what shall please you," replied Vishnu-Sarman. "Hear
+now, therefore, of 'War,' whose opening is thus:--
+
+    'Between the peoples of Peacock and Swan[16]
+    War raged; and evenly the contest ran,
+    Until the Swans to trust the Crows began.'
+
+'And how was all that?' asked the sons of the Rajah. Vishnu-Sarman
+proceeded to relate--
+
+
+THE BATTLE OF THE SWANS AND PEACOCKS
+
+"In the Isle of Camphor there is a lake called 'Lotus-water,' and
+therein a Swan-Royal, named 'Silver-sides,' had his residence. The birds
+of the marsh and the mere had elected him King, in full council of all
+the fowls--for a people with no ruler is like a ship that is without a
+helmsman. One day King Silver-sides, with his courtiers, was quietly
+reposing on a couch of well-spread lotus-blossoms, when a Crane, named
+'Long-bill,' who had just arrived from foreign parts, entered the
+presence with an obeisance, and sat down.
+
+'What news from abroad, Long-bill?' asked his Majesty.
+
+'Great news, may it please you,' answered the Crane, 'and therefore have
+I hastened hither. Will your Majesty hear me?'
+
+'Speak!' said King Silver-sides.
+
+'You must know, my Liege,' began the Crane, 'that over all the birds of
+the Vindhya mountains in Jambudwipa a Peacock is King, and his name is
+'Jewel-plume,' I was looking for food about a certain burnt jungle
+there, when some of his retainers discovered me, and asked my name and
+country. 'I am a vassal of King Silver-sides, Lord of the Island of
+Camphor,' I replied, 'and I am travelling in foreign lands for my
+pleasure.' Upon that the birds asked me which country, my own or theirs,
+and which King, appeared to me superior. 'How can you ask?' I replied;
+'the island of Camphor is, as it were, Heaven itself, and its King a
+heaven-born ruler. To dwellers in a barren land like yours how can I
+describe them? Come for yourselves, and see the country where I live.'
+Thereupon, your Majesty, the birds were exceedingly offended, as one
+might expect--
+
+    'Simple milk, when serpents drink it, straightway into venom turns;
+    And a fool who heareth counsel all the wisdom of it spurns.'
+
+For, indeed, no reflecting person wastes time in admonishing
+blockheads--
+
+    'The birds that took the apes to teaching,
+    Lost eggs and nests in pay for preaching.'
+
+'How did that befall?' asked the King.
+
+The Crane related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE WEAVER-BIRDS AND THE MONKEYS
+
+"In a nullah that leads down to the Nerbudda river there stood a large
+silk-cotton tree, where a colony of weaver-birds had built their hanging
+nests, and lived snugly in them, whatever the weather. It was in the
+rainy season, when the heavens are overlaid with clouds like
+indigo-sheets, and a tremendous storm of water was falling. The birds
+looked out from their nests, and saw some monkeys, shivering and starved
+with the cold, standing under a tree. 'Twit! twit! you Monkeys,' they
+began to chirrup. 'Listen to us!--
+
+    'With beaks we built these nests, of fibres scattered;
+    You that have hands and feet, build, or be spattered.'
+
+On hearing that the Monkeys were by no means pleased. 'Ho! ho!' said
+they, 'the Birds in their snug nests are jeering at us; wait till the
+rain is over,' Accordingly, so soon as the weather mended, the Monkeys
+climbed into the tree, and broke all the birds' eggs and demolished
+every nest. I ought to have known better,' concluded the Crane, 'than to
+have wasted my suggestions on King Jewel-plume's creatures.'
+
+'But what did they say?' asked Silver-sides.
+
+'They said, Rajah,' answered the Crane, 'who made that Swan of thine a
+King?'
+
+'And what was your reply?' asked Silver-sides.
+
+'I demanded,' replied the Crane, 'who made a King of that Peacock of
+theirs. Thereupon they were ready to kill me for rage; but I displayed
+my very best valor. Is it not written--
+
+    'A modest manner fits a maid,
+      And Patience is a man's adorning;
+    But brides may kiss, nor do amiss,
+      And men may draw, at scathe and scorning.'
+
+'Yet a man should measure his own strength first,' said the Rajah,
+smiling; 'how did you fare against King Jewel-plume's fellows?'
+
+'Very scurvily,' replied Long-bill. "Thou rascal Crane," they cried,
+"dost thou feed on his soil, and revile our Sovereign? That is past
+bearing!" And thereat they all pecked at me. Then they began again:
+"Thou thick-skulled Crane! that King of thine is a goose--a web-footed
+lord of littleness--and thou art but a frog in a well to bid us serve
+him--- him forsooth!--
+
+    'Serving narrow-minded masters dwarfs high natures to their size:--
+    Seen before a convex mirror, elephants do show as mice.'
+
+Bad kings are only strong enough to spoil good vassals--as a fiction
+once was mightier than a herd of elephants. You know it, don't you?--
+
+    'Mighty may prove things insignificant:--
+    A tale of moonshine turned an elephant.'
+
+'No! how was that?' I asked.
+
+The birds related--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE OLD HARE AND THE ELEPHANTS
+
+"Once on a time, very little rain had fallen in the due season; and the
+Elephants being oppressed with thirst, thus accosted their
+leader:--'Master, how are we to live? The small creatures find something
+to wash in, but we cannot, and we are half dead in consequence; whither
+shall we go then, and what shall we do?' Upon that the King of the
+Elephants led them away a little space; and showed them a beautiful pool
+of crystal water, where they took their ease. Now it chanced that a
+company of Hares resided on the banks of the pool, and the going and
+coming of the elephants trampled many of them to death, till one of
+their number named Hard-head grumbled out, 'This troop will be coming
+here to water every day, and every one of our family will be crushed.'
+'Do not disquiet yourself,' said an old buck named Good-speed, 'I will
+contrive to avert it,' and so saying, he set off, bethinking himself on
+his way how he should approach and accost a herd of elephants; for,
+
+    'Elephants destroy by touching, snakes with point of tooth beguile;
+    Kings by favor kill, and traitors murder with a fatal smile.'
+
+'I will get on the top of a hill,' he thought, 'and address the
+Elephants thence.'
+
+"This being done, and the Lord of the herd perceiving him, it was asked
+of the Hare, 'Who art thou? and whence comest thou?'
+
+'I am an ambassador from his Godship the Moon,' replied Good-speed.
+
+'State your business,' said the Elephant-king.
+
+'Sire,' began the Hare, 'an ambassador speaks the truth safely by
+charter of his name. Thus saith the Moon, then: "These hares were the
+guardians of my pool, and thine elephants in coming thither have scared
+them away. This is not well. Am I not Sasanka, whose banner bears a
+hare, and are not these hares my votaries?"'
+
+'Please your worship,' said the Elephant-king with much trepidation, 'we
+knew nothing of this; we will go there no more.'
+
+'It were well,' said the sham ambassador, 'that you first made your
+apologies to the Divinity, who is quaking with rage in his pool, and
+then went about your business.'
+
+'We will do so,' replied the Elephant with meekness; and being led by
+night to the pool, in the ripples of which the image of the Moon was
+quivering, the herd made their prostrations; the Hare explaining to the
+Moon that their fault was done in ignorance, and thereupon they got
+their dismissal.'
+
+'Nay,' I said, 'my Sovereign is no fiction, but a great King and a
+noble, and one that might govern the Three Worlds, much more a kingdom,'
+
+'Thou shalt talk thy treason in the presence,' they cried; and therewith
+I was dragged before King Jewel-plume.
+
+'Who is this?' asked the Rajah.
+
+'He is a servant of King Silver-sides, of the Island of Camphor,' they
+replied; 'and he slights your Majesty, on your Majesty's own land.'
+
+'Sirrah Crane!' said the Prime Minister, a Vulture, 'who is chief
+officer in that court?'
+
+'A Brahmany Goose,' I answered, 'named "Know-all"; and he does know
+every possible science.'
+
+'Sire,' broke in a Parrot, 'this Camphor-isle and the rest are poor
+places, and belong to Jambudwipa. Your Majesty has but to plant the
+royal foot upon them.'
+
+'Oh! of course,' said the King.
+
+'Nay,' said I, 'if talking makes your Majesty King of Camphor-island, my
+Liege may be lord of Jambudwipa by a better title.'
+
+'And that?' said the Parrot.
+
+'Is fighting!' I responded.
+
+'Good!' said the King, with a smile; 'bid your people prepare for war.'
+
+'Not so,' I replied; 'but send your own ambassador.'
+
+'Who will bear the message?' asked the Rajah. 'He should be loyal,
+dexterous, and bold.'
+
+'And virtuous,' said the Vulture, 'and therefore a Brahman:--
+
+    'Better Virtue marked a herald than that noble blood should deck;
+    Shiva reigns forever Shiva while the sea-wave stains his neck.'
+
+'Then let the Parrot be appointed,' said the Rajah.
+
+'I am your Majesty's humble servant,' replied the Parrot; 'but this
+Crane is a bad character, and with the bad I never like to travel. The
+ten-headed Ravana carried off the wife of Ramchundra! It does not do,
+
+    'With evil people neither stay nor go;
+    The Heron died for being with the Crow.'
+
+'How did that befall?' asked the King. The Parrot related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE HERON AND THE CROW
+
+'The high-road to Oogein is a very unshaded and sultry one; but there
+stands upon it one large Peepul-tree, and therein a Crow and a Heron had
+their residence together. It was in the hot weather that a tired
+traveller passed that way, and, for the sake of the shade, he laid his
+bow and arrows down, and dropped asleep under the tree. Before long the
+shadow of the tree shifted, and left his face exposed to the glare;
+which the Heron perceiving, like the kindly bird he was, perched on the
+Peepul-tree, and spread his wings out so as to cast a shadow on the
+traveller's face. There the poor fellow, weary with his travel,
+continued to sleep soundly, and snored away comfortably with open mouth.
+The sight of his enjoyment was too much for the malevolent Crow, who,
+perching over him, dropped an unwelcome morsel into the sleeper's mouth,
+and straightway flew off. The traveller, starting from his slumber,
+looked about, and, seeing no bird but the Heron, he fitted an arrow and
+shot him dead. No!' concluded the Parrot, 'I like the society of honest
+folk.'
+
+'But why these words, my brother?' I said; 'his Majesty's herald is to
+me even as his Majesty.'
+
+'Very fine!' replied the Parrot; 'but--
+
+    'Kindly courtesies that issue from a smiling villain's mouth
+    Serve to startle, like a flower blossoming in time of drouth.'
+
+Needs must that thou art a bad man; for by thy talk war will have
+arisen, which a little conciliation had averted:--
+
+    'Conciliation!--weapon of the wise!
+    Wheedled therewith, by woman's quick device,
+    The Wheelwright let his ears betray his eyes.'
+
+'How came that about?' asked the King. The Parrot related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE APPEASED WHEELWRIGHT
+
+"There was a Wheelwright in Shri-nuggur, whose name was 'Heavy-head,' He
+had good reason to suspect the infidelity of his wife, but he had no
+absolute proof of it. One day he gave out that he should go to a
+neighboring town, and he started accordingly; but he went a very little
+way, and then returning, hid himself in his wife's chamber. She being
+quite satisfied that he was really gone away, invited her gallant to
+pass the evening with her, and began to spend it with him in
+unrestrained freedom. Presently, by chance, she detected the presence of
+her husband, and her manner instantly changed.
+
+'Life of my soul! what ails you?' said her lover; 'you are quite dull
+to-night.'
+
+'I am dull,' she replied, 'because the lord of my life is gone. Without
+my husband the town is a wilderness. Who knows what may befall him, and
+whether he will have a nice supper?'
+
+'Trouble thyself no more about the quarrelsome dullard,' said her
+gallant.
+
+'Dullard, quotha!' exclaimed the wife. 'What matter what he is, since he
+is my all? Knowest thou not--
+
+    'Of the wife the lord is jewel, though no gems upon her beam;
+    Lacking him, she lacks adornment, howsoe'er her jewels gleam?'
+
+Thou, and the like of thee, may serve a whim, as we chew a betel-leaf
+and trifle with a flower; but my husband is my master, and can do with
+me as he will. My life is wrapped up in him--and when he dies, alas! I
+will certainly die too. Is it not plainly said--
+
+    'Hairs three-crore, and half-a-crore hairs, on a man so many grow--
+    And so many years to Swerga shall the true wife surely go?'
+
+And better still is promised; as herein--
+
+    'When the faithful wife,[17] embracing tenderly her husband dead,
+    Mounts the blazing pile beside him, as it were the bridal-bed;
+    Though his sins were twenty thousand, twenty thousand times o'er-told,
+    She shall bring his soul to splendor, for her love so large and bold.'
+
+All this the Wheelwright heard. 'What a lucky fellow I am,' he thought,
+'to have a wife so virtuous,' and rushing from his place of concealment,
+he exclaimed in ecstasy to his wife's gallant, 'Sir I saw you ever truer
+wife than mine?'
+
+'When the story was concluded,' said Long-bill, 'the King, with a
+gracious gift of food, sent me off before the Parrot; but he is coming
+after me, and it is now for your Majesty to determine as it shall please
+you.'
+
+'My Liege,' observed the Brahmany-goose with a sneer, 'the Crane has
+done the King's business in foreign parts to the best of his power,
+which is that of a fool.'
+
+"Let the past pass," replied the King, "and take thought for the
+present."
+
+"Be it in secret, then, your Majesty," said the Brahmany-goose--
+
+    'Counsel unto six ears spoken, unto all is notified:--
+    When a King holds consultation, let it be with one beside,'
+
+Thereupon all withdrew, but the Rajah and the Minister.
+
+'What think you?' said Silver-sides.
+
+'That the Crane has been employed to bring this about,' replied the
+other.
+
+'What shall we do?' asked the King.
+
+'Despatch two spies--the first to inform and send back the other, and
+make us know the enemy's strength or weakness. They must be such as can
+travel by land and water, so the Crane will serve for one, and we will
+keep his family in pledge at the King's gate. The other must be a very
+reserved character; as it is said--
+
+    'Sick men are for skilful leeches--prodigals for prisoning--
+    Fools for teachers--and the man who keeps a secret, for a King,'
+
+'I know such a one,' said his Majesty, after a pause.
+
+'It is half the victory,' responded the Minister.
+
+At this juncture a chamberlain entered with a profound obeisance, and
+announced the arrival from Jambudwipa of the Parrot.
+
+'Let him be shown to a reception-room,' commanded the Goose, in reply to
+a look from the King. 'He shall presently have audience.'
+
+'War is pronounced, then,' said the King, as the attendant withdrew.
+
+'It is offered, my Liege; but must not be rashly accepted,' replied the
+other--
+
+    'With gift, craft, promise, cause thy foe to yield;
+    When these have failed thee, challenge him a-field.'
+
+To gain time for expedients is the first point. Expedients are good for
+great and little matters equally, like
+
+    'The subtle wash of waves, that smoothly pass,
+    But lay the tree as lowly as the grass.'
+
+Let his Excellency the Parrot, then, be cajoled and detained here, while
+we place our fort in condition to be useful. Is it not said--
+
+    'Ten true bowmen on a rampart fifty's onset may sustain;
+    Fortalices keep a country more than armies in the plain?'
+
+And your Majesty,' continued the Goose, 'will recall the points of a
+good fortress--
+
+    'Build it strong, and build it spacious, with an entry and retreat;
+    Store it well with wood and water, fill its garners full with wheat.'
+
+'Whom, then, shall we entrust with this work?' asked King Silver-sides.
+
+'The Paddy-bird[18] is a good bird, and a skilful,' replied his
+Minister.
+
+'Let him be summoned!' said the King. And upon the entrance of the
+Paddy-bird, the superintendence of the fortress was committed to him,
+and accepted with a low prostration.
+
+'As to the fort, Sire!' remarked the Paddy-bird, 'it exists already in
+yonder large pool; the thing is to store the island in the middle of it
+with provisions--
+
+    'Gems will no man's life sustain;
+    Best of gold is golden grain.'
+
+'Good!' said King Silver-sides; 'let it be looked to.' Thereupon, as the
+Paddy-bird was retiring, the Usher entered again, and making
+prostration, said: 'May it please your Majesty, the King of all the
+Crows, Night-cloud by name, has just arrived from Singhala-dwipa, and
+desires to lay his homage at your Majesty's feet.'
+
+'He is a wise bird, and a far-travelled,' said the King; 'I think we
+must give him audience.'
+
+Nevertheless, Sire,' interrupted the Goose, 'we must not forget that he
+is a land-bird, and therefore not to be received as a water-fowl. Your
+royal memory doubtless retains the story of
+
+    'The Jackal's fate, who being colored blue,
+    Leaving his party, left his own life too.'
+
+'No! How was that?' asked King Silver-sides. The Goose related--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE DYED JACKAL
+
+"A Jackal once on a time, as he was prowling about the suburbs of a
+town, slipped into an indigo-tank; and not being able to get out he laid
+himself down so as to be taken for dead. The dyer presently coming and
+finding what seemed a dead Jackal, carried him into the jungle and then
+flung him away. Left to himself, the Jackal found his natural color
+changed to a splendid blue. 'Really,' he reflected, 'I am now of a most
+magnificent tint; why should I not make it conduce to my elevation?'
+With this view, he assembled the other Jackals, and thus harangued
+them:--
+
+'Good people, the Goddess of the Wood, with her own divine hand, and
+with every magical herb of the forest, has anointed me King. Behold the
+complexion of royalty!--and henceforward transact nothing without my
+imperial permission."
+
+"The Jackals, overcome by so distinguished a color, could do nothing but
+prostrate themselves and promise obedience. His reign, thus begun,
+extended in time to the lions and tigers; and with these high-born
+attendants he allowed himself to despise the Jackals, keeping his own
+kindred at a distance, as though ashamed of them. The Jackals were
+indignant, but an old beast of their number thus consoled them:--
+
+"Leave the impudent fellow to me. I will contrive his ruin. These tigers
+and the rest think him a King, because he is colored blue; we must show
+them his true colors. Do this, now!--in the evening-time come close
+about him, and set up a great yell together--he is sure to join in, as
+he used to do--
+
+    'Hard it is to conquer nature: if a dog were made a King,
+    Mid the coronation trumpets, he would gnaw his sandal-string.'
+
+And when he yells the Tigers will know him for a Jackal and fall upon
+him.'
+
+'The thing befell exactly so, and the Jackal,' concluded the Minister,
+'met the fate of one who leaves his proper party.'
+
+'Still,' said the King, 'the Crow has come a long way, and we might see
+him, I think.'
+
+'Admit the Parrot first, Sire,' said the Goose; 'the fort has been put
+in order and the spy despatched.'
+
+"Thereupon a Court was called, and the Parrot introduced, followed by
+Night-cloud, the Crow. A seat was offered to the parrot, who took it,
+and, with his beak in the air, thus delivered his mission:--
+
+'King Silver-sides!--My master, the King Jewel-plume, Lord of Lords,
+bids thee, if life and lands be dear to thee, to come and make homage at
+his august feet; and failing this to get thee gone from Camphor-island.'
+
+'S'death!' exclaimed the Rajah, 'is there none that will silence this
+traitor?'
+
+'Give the sign, your Majesty,' said the Crow, starting up, 'and I will
+despatch this audacious bird.'
+
+'Sir,' said the Goose, 'be calm! and Sire, deign to listen--
+
+    ''Tis no Council where no Sage is--'tis no Sage that fears not Law;
+    'Tis no Law which Truth confirms not--'tis no Truth which Fear can
+            awe.'
+
+An ambassador must speak unthreatened--
+
+    'Though base be the Herald, nor hinder nor let,
+      For the mouth of a king is he;
+    The sword may be whet, and the battle set,
+      But the word of his message is free.'
+
+Thereat the Rajah and Night-cloud resumed their composure; and the
+Parrot took his departure, escorted by the Minister, and presented with
+complimentary gifts of gold and jewels. On reaching the palace of
+Jewel-plume, the King demanded his tidings, and inquired of the country
+he had visited.
+
+'War must be prepared, may it please you,' said the Parrot: 'the
+country is a country of Paradise.'
+
+'Prepare for war, then!' said the King.
+
+'We must not enter on it in the face of destiny,' interposed the
+Vulture-Minister, whose title was 'Far-sight.'
+
+'Let the Astrologer then discover a favorable conjuncture for the
+expedition, and let my forces be reviewed meantime,' said the King.
+
+'We must not march without great circumspection,' observed Far-sight.
+
+'Minister!' exclaimed the King, 'you chafe me. Say, however, with what
+force we should set out.'
+
+'It should be well selected, rather than unwieldy,' replied the
+Vulture--
+
+    'Better few and chosen fighters than of shaven crowns a host,
+    For in headlong flight confounded, with the base the brave are lost.'
+
+And its commanders must be judiciously appointed; for it is said--
+
+    'Ever absent, harsh, unjustly portioning the captured prey--
+    These, and cold or laggard leaders make a host to melt away.'
+
+'Ah!' interrupted the Rajah, 'what need of so much talk? We will go,
+and, if Váchaspati please, we will conquer.'
+
+Shortly afterwards the Spy returned to Camphor-island. 'King
+Silver-sides,' he cried, 'the Rajah, Jewel-plume, is on his way hither,
+and has reached the Ghauts. Let the fort be manned, for that Vulture is
+a great minister; and I have learned, too, that there is one among us
+who is in his pay.'
+
+'King!' said the Goose, 'that must be the Crow.'
+
+'But whence, then, did he show such willingness to punish the Parrot?'
+objected his Majesty. 'Besides, war was declared long after the Crow
+came to Court.'
+
+'I misdoubt him,' said the Minister, 'because he is a stranger.'
+
+'But strangers surely may be well-disposed,' replied the King. 'How say
+the books?--
+
+    'Kind is kin, howe'er a stranger--kin unkind is stranger shown;
+    Sores hurt, though the body breeds them--drugs relieve, though
+            desert-grown.'
+
+Have you never heard of King Sudraka and the unknown Servant, who gave
+his son's life for the King?
+
+'Never,' answered the Goose.
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE FAITHFUL RAJPOOT
+
+"I will tell you the tale," said the King, "as I heard it from
+'Lilyflower,' daughter of the Flamingo 'White-flag,' of whom I was once
+very fond:--A soldier presented himself one morning at King Sudraka's
+gate, and bade the porter procure an audience for 'Vira-vara, a
+Rajpoot,'[19] who sought employment. Being admitted to the presence, he
+thus addressed the King:--
+
+'If your Highness needs an attendant, behold one!'
+
+'What pay do you ask?' inquired the King.
+
+'Five hundred pieces of gold a day,' said Vira-vara.
+
+'And your accoutrements?' asked the King.
+
+'Are these two arms, and this sabre, which serve for a third,' said
+Vira-vara, rolling up his sleeve.
+
+'I cannot entertain you,' rejoined his Majesty; and thereupon the
+Rajpoot made salaam, and withdrew. Then said the Ministers, 'If it
+please your Majesty, the stipend is excessive, but give him pay for four
+days, and see wherein he may deserve it.' Accordingly, the Rajpoot was
+recalled, and received wages for four days, with the complimentary
+betel.--Ah! the rare betel! Truly say the wise of it--
+
+    'Betel-nut is bitter, hot, sweet, spicy, binding, alkaline--
+    A demulcent--an astringent--foe to evils intestine;
+    Giving to the breath a fragrance--to the lips a crimson red;
+    A detergent, and a kindler of Love's flame that lieth dead.
+    Praise the gods for the good Betel!--these be thirteen virtues given,
+    Hard to meet in one thing blended, even in their happy heaven.'
+
+'Now the King narrowly watched the spending of Vira-vara's pay, and
+discovered that he bestowed half in the service of the Gods and the
+support of Brahmans, a fourth part in relieving the poor, and reserved a
+fourth for his sustenance and recreation. This daily division made, he
+would take his stand with his sabre at the gate of the palace; retiring
+only upon receiving the royal permission.
+
+'It was on the fourteenth night of the dark half of the month that King
+Sudraka heard below a sound of passionate sobbing. 'Ho! there,' he
+cried, 'who waits at the gate?'
+
+'I,' replied Vira-vara, 'may it please you.'
+
+'Go and learn what means this weeping,' said the King.
+
+'I go, your Majesty,' answered the Rajpoot, and therewith departed.
+
+'No sooner was he gone than the King repented him of sending one man
+alone into a night so dark that a bodkin might pierce a hole in it, and
+girding on his scimitar, he followed his guard beyond the city gates.
+When Vira-vara had gone thus far he encountered a beautiful and
+splendidly dressed lady who was weeping bitterly; and accosting her, he
+requested to know her name, and why she thus lamented.
+
+'I am the Fortune of the King Sudraka,' answered she; 'a long while I
+have lived happily in the shadow of his arm; but on the third day he
+will die, and I must depart, and therefore lament I.'
+
+'Can nothing serve, Divine Lady, to prolong thy stay?' asked the
+Rajpoot.
+
+'It might be,' replied the Spirit, 'if thou shouldst cut off the head of
+thy first-born Shaktidhar, that hath on his body the thirty-two
+auspicious marks of greatness. Were his head offered to the all-helpful
+Durga, the Rajah should live a hundred years, and I might tarry beside
+him.'
+
+'So speaking, she disappeared, and Vira-vara retraced his steps to his
+own house and awoke his wife and son. They arose, and listened with
+attention until Vira-vara had repeated all the words of the vision. When
+he had finished, Shaktidhar exclaimed, 'I am thrice happy to be able to
+save the state of the King. Kill me, my father, and linger not; to give
+my life in such a cause is good indeed,' 'Yes,' said the Mother, 'it is
+good, and worthy of our blood; how else should we deserve the King's
+pay?' Being thus agreed, they repaired together at once to the temple of
+the Goddess Durga, and having paid their devotions and entreated the
+favor of the deity on behalf of the King, Vira-vara struck off his son's
+head, and laid it as an offering upon the shrine. That done, Vira-vara
+said, 'My service to the King is accomplished, and life without my boy
+is but a burden,' and therewith he plunged his sword in his own breast
+and fell dead. Overpowered with grief for her husband and child, the
+mother also withdrew the twice-blooded weapon, and slew herself with it
+on the bodies of Vira-vara and Shaktidhar.
+
+'All this was heard and seen by King Sudraka, and he stood aghast at the
+sad sight. 'Woe is me!' he exclaimed--
+
+    'Kings may come, and Kings may go;
+    What was I, to bring these low?
+    Souls so noble, slain for me,
+    Were not, and will never be!'
+
+What reck I of my realm, having lost these?' and thereat he drew his
+scimitar to take his own life also. At that moment there appeared to him
+the Goddess, who is Mistress of all men's fortunes. 'Son,' said she,
+staying his lifted hand, 'forbear thy rash purpose, and bethink thee of
+thy kingdom.'
+
+"The Rajah fell prostrate before her, and cried--'O Goddess! I am done
+with life and wealth and kingdom! If thou hast compassion on me, let my
+death restore these faithful ones to life; anywise I follow the path
+they have marked,' 'Son,' replied the Goddess, 'thine affection is
+pleasing to me: be it as thou wilt! The Rajpoot and his house shall be
+rendered alive to thee.' Then the King departed, and presently saw
+Vira-vara return, and take up again his station as before at the
+palace-gate.
+
+'Ho! there, Vira-vara!' cried the King, 'what meant the weeping?'
+
+'Let your Majesty rest well!' answered the Rajpoot, 'it was a woman who
+wept, and disappeared on my approach.' This answer completed the Rajah's
+astonishment and delight; for we know--
+
+    'He is brave whose tongue is silent of the trophies of his sword;
+    He is great whose quiet bearing marks his greatness well assured.'
+
+So when the day was come, he called a full council, and, declaring
+therein all the events of the night, he invested the faithful guard with
+the sovereignty of the Carnatic.
+
+"Thus, then," concluded King Silver-sides, "in entertaining strangers a
+man may add to his friends."
+
+"It may well be," replied the Goose; "but a Minister should advise what
+is expedient, and not what is pleasing in sentiment:--
+
+    'When the Priest, the Leech, the Vizir of a King his flatterers be,
+    Very soon the King will part with health, and wealth, and piety.'
+
+'Let it pass, then,' said Silver-sides, 'and turn we to the matter in
+hand. King Jewel-plume is even now pitched under the Ghauts. What think
+you?'
+
+'That we shall vanquish him,' replied the Goose; 'for he disregards, as
+I learn, the counsel of that great statesman, the Vulture Far-sight; and
+the wise have said--
+
+    'Merciless, or money-loving, deaf to counsel, false of faith,
+    Thoughtless, spiritless, or careless, changing course with every
+            breath,
+    Or the man who scorns his rival--if a prince should choose a foe,
+    Ripe for meeting and defeating, certes he would choose him so.
+
+He is marching without due preparation; let us send the Paddy-bird at
+the head of a force and attack him on his march."
+
+Accordingly the Paddy-bird, setting out with a force of water-fowl, fell
+upon the host of the Peacock-king, and did immense execution.
+Disheartened thereat, King Jewel-plume summoned Far-sight, his Minister,
+and acknowledged to him his precipitation.
+
+'Wherefore do you abandon us, my father?' he said. 'Correct for us what
+has been done amiss.
+
+'My Liege,' replied the Vulture, 'it has been well observed--
+
+    'By the valorous and unskilful great achievements are not wrought;
+    Courage, led by careful Prudence, unto highest ends is brought.'
+
+You have set Strength in the seat of Counsel, your Majesty, and he hath
+clumsily spoiled your plans. How indeed could it fall otherwise? for--
+
+    'Grief kills gladness, winter summer, midnight-gloom the light of day,
+    Kindnesses ingratitude, and pleasant friends drive pain away;
+    Each ends each, but none of other surer conquerors can be
+    Than Impolicy of Fortune--of Misfortune Policy.'
+
+I have said to myself, 'My Prince's understanding is affected--how else
+would he obscure the moonlight of policy with the night-vapors of talk;'
+in such a mood I cannot help him--
+
+    'Wisdom answers all who ask her, but a fool she cannot aid;
+    Blind men in the faithful mirror see not their reflection made.'
+
+And therefore I have been absent.'
+
+'My father!' said the King, joining his palms in respect, 'mine is all
+the fault! Pardon it, and instruct me how to withdraw my army without
+further loss.'
+
+Then the Vulture's anger melted, and he reflected--
+
+    'Where the Gods are, or thy Guru--in the face of Pain and Age,
+    Cattle, Brahmans, Kings, and Children--reverently curb thy rage.'
+
+And with a benignant smile, he answered the King thus, 'Be of good
+heart, my Liege; thou shalt not only bring the host back safely, but
+thou shalt first destroy the castle of King Silver-sides.'
+
+'How can that be, with my diminished forces?' asked the Rajah.
+
+'It will come to pass!' answered the Vulture. 'Break up to-day for the
+blockade of the fort.'
+
+Now, when this was reported by the spies to King Silver-sides, he was
+greatly alarmed. 'Good Goose!' said he, 'what is to be done? Here is the
+King of the Peacocks at hand, to blockade us--by his Minister's advice,
+too.'
+
+'Sire,' replied the Goose, 'separate the efficient and the inefficient
+in your force; and stimulate the loyalty of the first, with a royal
+bounty of gold and dresses, as each may seem to merit. Now is the time
+for it--
+
+    'Oh, my Prince! on eight occasions prodigality is none--
+    In the solemn sacrificing, at the wedding of a son,
+    When the glittering treasure given makes the proud invader bleed,
+    Or its lustre bringeth comfort to the people in their need,
+    Or when kinsmen are to succor, or a worthy work to end,
+    Or to do a mistress honor, or to welcome back a friend.'
+
+'But is this expenditure needed?' said the King.
+
+'It is needed, my Liege,' said the Goose, 'and it befits a Monarch;
+for--
+
+    'Truth, munificence, and valor, are the virtues of a King;
+    Royalty, devoid of either, sinks to a rejected thing.'
+
+'Let it be incurred then!' replied the King.
+
+At this moment Night-cloud, the Crow, made his appearance. 'Deign me one
+regard, Sire,' said he, 'the insolent enemy is at our gates; let your
+Majesty give the word, and I will go forth and show my valor and
+devotion to your Crown.'
+
+'It were better to keep our cover,' said the Goose. 'Wherefore else
+builded we this fortalice? Is it not said?--
+
+    'Hold thy vantage!--alligators on the land make none afraid;
+    And the lion's but a jackal that hath left his forest-shade.'
+
+But go, your Majesty, and encourage our warriors." Thereupon they
+repaired to the Gateway of the Fort, and all day the battle raged there.
+
+It was the morning after, when King Jewel-plume spake thus to his
+Minister the Vulture--'Good sir, shall thy promise be kept to us?'
+
+'It shall be kept, your Majesty,' replied the Vulture; 'storm the fort!'
+
+'We will storm it!' said the Peacock-king. The sun was not well-risen
+accordingly when the attack was made, and there arose hot fighting at
+all the four gates. It was then that the traitorous Crows, headed by
+their Monarch, Night-cloud, put fire to every dwelling in the citadel,
+and raised a shout of 'The Fort is taken! it is taken!' At this terrible
+sound the soldiers of the Swan-king forsook their posts, and plunged
+into the pool.
+
+Not thus King Silver-sides:--retiring coolly before the foe, with his
+General the Paddy-bird, he was cut off and encircled by the troopers of
+King Jewel-plume, under the command of his Marshal, the Cock.
+
+'My General,' said the King, 'thou shalt not perish for me. Fly! I can
+go no farther. Fly! I bid thee, and take counsel with the Goose that
+Crest-jewel, my son, be named King!'
+
+'Good my Lord,' replied the Paddy-bird, 'speak not thus! Let your
+Majesty reign victorious while the sun and moon endure. I am governor of
+your Majesty's fortress, and if the enemy enter it he shall but do so
+over my body; let me die for thee, my Master!--
+
+    'Gentle, generous, and discerning; such a Prince the Gods do give!'
+
+'That shalt thou not,' replied the Rajah--
+
+    'Skilful, honest, and true-hearted; where doth such a Vassal live?'
+
+'Nay! my royal Lord, escape!' cried the Paddy-bird; a king's life is the
+life of his people--
+
+    'The people are the lotus-leaves, their monarch is the sun--
+    When he doth sink beneath the waves they vanish every one.
+
+    When he doth rise they rise again with bud and blossom rife,
+    To bask awhile in his warm smile, who is their lord and life.'
+
+'Think no more of me.' At this instant the Cock rushing forward,
+inflicted a wound with his sharp spurs on the person of the King; but
+the Paddy-bird sprang in front of him, and receiving on his body the
+blows designed for the Rajah, forced him away into the pool. Then
+turning upon the Cock, he despatched him with a shower of blows from his
+long bill; and finally succumbed, fighting in the midst of his enemies.
+Thus the King of the Peacocks captured the fortress; and marched home
+with all the treasure in it, amid songs of victory.
+
+Then spake the Princes: "In that army of the Swans there was no soldier
+like the Paddy-bird, who gave his own life for the King's."
+
+"There be nowhere many such," replied Vishnu-Sarman; "for
+
+    'All the cows bring forth are cattle--only now and then is born
+    An authentic lord of pastures, with his shoulder-scratching horn.'[20]
+
+"It is well spoken," said the Princes.
+
+"But for him that dares to die so," added the Sage, "may an eternal
+heaven be reserved, and may the lustrous Angels of Paradise, the
+Apsaras, conduct him thither! Is it not so declared, indeed?--
+
+    'When the soldier in the battle lays his life down for his king,
+    Unto Swerga's perfect glory such a deed his soul shall bring.'
+
+"It is so declared," said the Rajah's sons.
+
+"And now, my Princes," concluded Vishnu-Sarman, "you have listened to
+'War.'"
+
+"We have listened, and are gratified," replied the sons of the King.
+
+"Let me end then," said their Preceptor, "with this--
+
+      'If the clouds of Battle lower
+      When ye come into your power,
+      Durga grant the foes that dare you
+      Bring no elephants to scare you;
+      Nor the thunderous rush of horses,
+      Nor the footmen's steel-fringed forces:
+    But overblown by Policy's strong breath,
+    Hide they in caverns from the avenging death.'
+
+
+[16] The peacock is wild in most Indian jungles. The swan is a species
+of flamingo of a white color. The voice and gait of a beautiful woman
+are likened by the Hindoo poets to those of the swan.
+
+[17] By such a death as that alluded to, she earns the title of Sati,
+the "excellent."
+
+[18] The common Indian crane; a graceful white bird, seen everywhere in
+the interior of Hindoostan.
+
+[19] A man of military caste.
+
+[20] Large branching horns which reach backward and rub upon his
+shoulders.
+
+
+
+
+PEACE
+
+
+When the time came for resuming instruction, the King's sons said to
+Vishnu-Sarman, "Master, we have heard of War, we would now learn
+somewhat of the treaties which follow war." "It is well asked," replied
+the Sage; "listen therefore to 'Peace,' which hath this commencement--
+
+    'When those great Kings their weary war did cease,
+    The Vulture and the Goose concluded Peace.'
+
+'How came that?' asked the Princes.
+
+Vishnu-Sarman related:--
+
+
+THE TREATY BETWEEN THE PEACOCKS AND THE SWANS
+
+"So soon as King Jewel-plume had retreated, the first care of King
+Silver-sides was the discovery of the treason that had cost him the
+fort.
+
+'Goose,' he said to his Minister, 'who put the fire to our citadel,
+think you? Was it an enemy or an inmate?'
+
+'Sire,' replied the Goose, 'Night-cloud and his followers are nowhere to
+be seen--it must needs be his work.'
+
+'It must needs be,' sighed the King, after a pause; 'but what
+ill-fortune!'
+
+'If it please your Majesty, no,' replied the Minister; 'it is written--
+
+    "'Tis the fool who, meeting trouble, straightway destiny reviles;
+    Knowing not his own misdoing brought his own mischance the whiles."
+
+You have forgotten the saying--
+
+    'Who listens not, when true friends counsel well,
+    Must fall, as once the foolish Tortoise fell.'
+
+'I never heard it,' said the King. 'How was that?' The Goose related--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE TORTOISE AND THE GEESE
+
+"There is a pool in South Behar called the 'Pool of the Blue Lotus,' and
+two Geese had for a long time lived there. They had a friend in the pool
+who was a Tortoise, and he was known as 'Shelly-neck,' It chanced one
+evening that the Tortoise overheard some fishermen talking by the water.
+'We will stop here to-night,' they said, 'and in the morning we will
+catch the fish, the tortoises, and such like.' Extremely alarmed at
+this, the Tortoise repaired to his friends the Geese, and reported the
+conversation.
+
+'What ever am I to do, Gossips?' he asked.
+
+'The first thing is to be assured of the danger,' said the Geese.
+
+'I am assured,' exclaimed the Tortoise; 'the first thing is to avoid it:
+don't you know?--
+
+    'Time-not-come' and 'Quick-at-peril,' these two fishes 'scaped the net;
+    'What-will-be-will-be,' he perished, by the fishermen beset.'
+
+'No,' said the Geese,' how was it?' Shelly-neck related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF FATE AND THE THREE FISHES
+
+"It was just such a pool as this, and on the arrival at it of just such
+men as these fishermen, that three fishes, who had heard their designs,
+held consultation as to what should be done.
+
+'I shall go to another water,' said "Time-not-come," and away he went.
+
+'Why should we leave unless obliged?' asked "Quick-at-peril." 'When the
+thing befalls I shall do the best I can--
+
+    'Who deals with bad dilemmas well, is wise.
+    The merchant's wife, with womanly device,
+    Kissed--and denied the kiss--under his eyes.'
+
+'How was that?' asked the other fish. Quick-at-peril related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE UNABASHED WIFE
+
+"There was a trader in Vikrama-poora, who had a very beautiful wife, and
+her name was Jewel-bright. The lady was as unfaithful as she was fair,
+and had chosen for her last lover one of the household servants. Ah!
+womankind!--
+
+    'Sex, that tires of being true,
+    Base and new is brave to you!
+    Like the jungle-cows ye range,
+    Changing food for sake of change.'
+
+Now it befell one day that as Jewel-bright was bestowing a kiss on the
+mouth of the servant, she was surprised by her husband; and seeing him
+she ran up hastily and said, 'My lord, here is an impudent varlet! he
+eats the camphor which I procured for you; I was actually smelling it on
+his lips as you entered.' The servant catching her meaning, affected
+offence. 'How can a man stay in a house where the mistress is always
+smelling one's lips for a little camphor?' he said; and thereat he was
+for going off, and was only constrained by the good man to stay, after
+much entreaty. 'Therefore,' said Quick-at-peril, 'I mean to abide here,
+and make the best I can of what befalls, as she did.'
+
+'Yes, yes,' said What-will-be-will-be, 'we all know
+
+    'That which will not be will not be, and what is to be will be:--
+    Why not drink this easy physic, antidote of misery?'
+
+'When the morning came, the net was thrown, and both the fishes
+inclosed. Quick-at-peril, on being drawn up, feigned himself dead; and
+upon the fisherman's laying him aside, he leaped off again into the
+water. As to What-will-be-will-be, he was seized and forthwith
+dispatched.--And that,' concluded the Tortoise, 'is why I wish to devise
+some plan of escape.'
+
+'It might be compassed if you could go elsewhere,' said the Geese, 'but
+how can you get across the ground?'
+
+'Can't you take me through the air?' asked the Tortoise.
+
+'Impossible!' said the Geese.
+
+'Not at all!' replied the Tortoise; 'you shall hold a stick across in
+your bills, and I will hang on to it by my mouth--and thus you can
+readily convey me,'
+
+'It is feasible,' observed the Geese, 'but remember,
+
+    'Wise men their plans revolve, lest ill befall;
+    The Herons gained a friend, and so, lost all.'
+
+'How came that about?' asked the Tortoise. The Geese related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE HERONS AND THE MONGOOSE
+
+"Among the mountains of the north there is one named Eagle-cliff, and
+near it, upon a fig-tree, a flock of Herons had their residence. At the
+foot of the tree, in a hollow, there lived a serpent; and he was
+constantly devouring the nestlings of the Herons. Loud were the
+complaints of the parent birds, until an old Heron thus advised
+them:--'You should bring some fishes from the pool, and lay them one by
+one in a line from the hole of yonder Mongoose to the hollow where the
+Serpent lives. The Mongoose will find him when it comes after the fish,
+and if it finds him it will kill him.' The advice seemed good, and was
+acted upon; but in killing the Snake the Mongoose overheard the cry of
+the young Herons; and climbing the tree daily, he devoured all that the
+Snake had left. Therefore,' concluded the Geese, 'do we bid you look
+well into your plan: if you should open your mouth, for instance, as we
+carry you, you will drop and be killed.'
+
+'Am I a fool,' cried the Tortoise, 'to open my mouth? Not I! Come now,
+convey me!'
+
+'Thereupon the Geese took up the stick; the Tortoise held fast with his
+mouth, and away they flew. The country people, observing this strange
+sight, ran after.
+
+'Ho! ho!' cried one, 'look at the flying Tortoise!'
+
+'When he falls we'll cook and eat him here,' said another.
+
+'No; let us take him home for dinner!' cried a third.
+
+'We can light a fire by the pool, and eat him,' said the first.
+
+'The Tortoise heard these unkind remarks in a towering passion. 'Eat
+me!--eat ashes!' he exclaimed, opening his mouth--and down he fell
+directly, and was caught by the countrymen.--Said I not well,' concluded
+the Goose-Minister, 'that to scorn counsel is to seek destruction?'
+
+'You have well said,' replied King Silver-sides, disconsolately.
+
+'Yes, your Majesty,' interposed the Crane, who was just returned, 'if
+the Fort had been cleared, Night-cloud could not have fired it, as he
+did, by the Vulture's instigation.'
+
+'We see it all,' sighed the King, 'but too late!'
+
+    'Whoso trusts, for service rendered, or fair words, an enemy,
+    Wakes from folly like one falling in his slumber from a tree.'
+
+'I witnessed Night-cloud's reception,' continued the Crane. 'King
+Jewel-plume showed him great favor, and was for anointing him Rajah of
+Camphor-island.'
+
+'Hear you that, my Liege?' asked the Goose.
+
+'Go on; I hear!' said Silver-sides.
+
+'To that the Vulture demurred,' continued the Crane:--'"favor to low
+persons," he said, "was like writing on the sea-sand. To set the
+base-born in the seat of the great was long ago declared impolitic--
+
+    'Give mean men power, and give thy throat to the knife;
+    The Mouse, made Tiger, sought his master's life.'
+
+'How was that?' asked King Jewel-plume. The Vulture related--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE RECLUSE AND THE MOUSE
+
+"In the forest of the Sage Gautama there dwelt a Recluse named
+Mighty-at-Prayer. Once, as he sat at his frugal meal, a young mouse
+dropped beside him from the beak of a crow, and he took it up and fed it
+tenderly with rice grains. Some time after the Saint observed a cat
+pursuing his dependent to devour it, whereupon he changed the mouse into
+a stout cat. The cat was a great deal harassed by dogs, upon which the
+Saint again transformed it into a dog. The dog was always in danger of
+the tigers, and his protector at last gave him the form of a
+tiger--considering him all this while, and treating him withal, like
+nothing but a mouse. The country-folk passing by would say, 'That a
+tiger! not he; it is a mouse the Saint has transformed.' And the mouse
+being vexed at this, reflected, 'So long as the Master lives, this
+shameful story of my origin will survive!' With this thought he was
+about to take the Saint's life, when he, who knew his purpose, turned
+the ungrateful beast by a word to his original shape. Besides, your
+Majesty," continued the Vulture, "it may not be so easy to take in
+Camphor-island--
+
+    'Many fine fishes did the old Crane kill,
+    But the Crab matched him, maugre all his bill.'
+
+'How came that to pass?' asked Jewel-plume.
+
+'The Vulture related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE CRANE AND THE CRAB
+
+"There was an old Crane at a mere called Lily-water, in Malwa, who stood
+one day in the shallows with a most dejected look and drooping bill. A
+Crab observed him and called out, 'Friend Crane! have you given up
+eating, that you stand there all day?' 'Nay, sir!' replied the old
+Crane; 'I love my dish of fish, but I have heard the fishermen say that
+they mean to capture every one that swims in this water; and as that
+destroys my hope of subsistence, I am resigning myself to death.' All
+this the fishes overheard. 'In this matter certainly,' they said, 'his
+interest is ours; we ought to consult him; for it is written--
+
+    'Fellow be with kindly foemen, rather than with friends unkind;
+    Friend and foeman are distinguished not by title but by mind.'
+
+Thereupon they repaired to him: 'Good Crane,' they said, 'what course is
+there for safety?'
+
+'Course of safety there is,' replied the Crane, 'to go elsewhere; and I
+will carry you one by one to another pool, if you please.'
+
+'Do so,' said the trembling fishes.
+
+"The Crane accordingly took one after another, and having eaten them
+returned with the report that he had safely deposited each. Last of all,
+the Crab requested to be taken; and the Crane, coveting his tender
+flesh, took him up with great apparent respect. On arriving at the spot,
+which was covered with fish-bones, the Crab perceived the fate reserved
+for him; and turning round he fastened upon the Crane's throat and tore
+it so that he perished.'
+
+'Well, but,' said King Jewel-plume, 'we can make Night-cloud viceroy
+here, to send over to Vindhya all the productions of Camphor-isle!'
+
+'Then the Vulture Far-sight laughed a low laugh and said--
+
+    'Who, ere he makes a gain has spent it,
+    Like the pot-breaker will repent it.'
+
+'What was that?' asked the King. Far-sight related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE BRAHMAN AND THE PANS
+
+"There was a Brahman in the city of Vána, whose name was Deva Sarman. At
+the equinoctial feast of the Dussera, he obtained for his duxina-gift a
+dish of flour, which he took into a potter's shed; and there lay down in
+the shade among the pots, staff in hand. As he thus reclined he began to
+meditate, 'I can sell this meal for ten cowrie-shells, and with them I
+can purchase some of these pots and sell them at an advance. With all
+that money I shall invest in betel-nuts and body-cloths and make a new
+profit by their sale; and so go on trafficking till I get a lakh of
+rupees--what's to prevent me? Then I shall marry four wives--and one at
+least will be beautiful and young, and she shall be my favorite. Of
+course the others will be jealous; but if they quarrel, and talk, and
+trouble me I will belabor them like this--and this'--and therewith he
+flourished his staff to such a purpose as to smash his meal-dish and
+break several of the potter's jars. The potter, rushing out, took him by
+the throat, and turned him off; and so ended his speculations. I smiled,
+my Liege,' concluded the Vulture, 'at your precipitancy, thinking of
+that story.'
+
+'Tell me, then, my Father, what should be done,' said the King.
+
+'Tell me first, your Majesty, what took the fortress: strength or
+stratagem?'
+
+'It was a device of yours,' said the King.
+
+'It is well,' replied the Minister, 'and my counsel now is to return
+before the rainy season, while we can return; and to make peace. We have
+won renown and taken the enemy's stronghold; let it suffice. I speak as
+a faithful adviser; and it is written--
+
+    'Whoso setting duty highest, speaks at need unwelcome things,
+    Disregarding fear and favor, such a one may succor kings.'
+
+Oh, my Liege! war is uncertain! Nay, it may ruin victor and
+vanquished--
+
+    'Sunda the strong, and giant Upasunda,
+    Contending, like the lightning and the thunder,
+    Slew each the other. Learn, the while you wonder.'
+
+'Tell me that,' said the King of the Peacocks.
+
+'The Vulture related--
+
+
+THE DUEL OF THE GIANTS
+
+"Long ago, my Liege, there were two Daityas named Sunda and Upasunda,
+the which with penance and fasting worshipped that God who wears the
+moon for his forehead-jewel; desiring to win his favor, and thereby the
+lordship of the Three Worlds. At last the God, propitiated by their
+devotion, spake thus unto them:--
+
+'I grant a boon unto ye--choose what it shall be.'
+
+'And they, who would have asked dominion, were suddenly minded of
+Saraswati--who reigns over the hearts and thoughts of men--to seek a
+forbidden thing.
+
+'If,' said they, 'we have found favor, let the Divinity give us his own
+cherished Parvati, the Queen of Heaven!'
+
+'Terribly incensed was the God, but his word had passed, and the boon
+must be granted; and Parvati the Divine was delivered up to them. Then
+those two world-breakers, sick at heart, sin-blinded, and afire with the
+glorious beauty of the Queen of Life--began to dispute, saying one to
+another: 'Mine is she! mine is she!' At the last they called for an
+umpire, and the God himself appeared before them as a venerable Brahman.
+
+'Master,' said they, 'tell us whose she is, for we both won her by our
+might.'
+
+'Then spake that Brahman:--
+
+    'Brahmans for their lore have honor; Kshattriyas for their bravery;
+    Vaisyas for their hard-earned treasure; Sudras for humility,'
+
+Ye are Kshattriyas--and it is yours to fight; settle, then, this
+question by the sword.'
+
+'Thereupon they agreed that he spoke wisely, and drew and battled; and
+being of equal force, they fell at the same moment by an exchange of
+blows. Good my Lord,' concluded the Minister, 'peace is a better thing
+than war,'
+
+'But why not say so before?' asked Jewel-plume.
+
+'I said it at the first,' replied the Minister. 'I knew King
+Silver-sides for a just King, upon whom it was ill to wage battle. How
+say the Scriptures?--
+
+    'Seven foemen of all foemen, very hard to vanquish be:
+    The Truth-teller, the Just-dweller, and the man from passion free,
+    Subtle, self-sustained, and counting frequent well-won victories,
+    And the man of many kinsmen--keep the peace with such as these.'
+
+The Swan-king has friends and kinsmen, my Liege:--
+
+    'And the man with many kinsmen answers with them all attacks;
+    As the bambu, in the bambus safely sheltered, scorns the axe.'
+
+'My counsel then is that peace be concluded with him,' said the Vulture.
+
+'All this King Silver-sides and his Minister the Goose heard attentively
+from the Crane.
+
+'Go again!' said the Goose to Long-bill, 'and bring us news of how the
+Vulture's advice is received.'
+
+'Minister!' began the King, upon the departure of the Crane, 'tell me as
+to this peace, who are they with whom it should not be concluded?'
+
+'They be twenty, namely----'
+
+'Tarry not to name them,' said the King; 'and what be the qualities of a
+good ally?'
+
+'Such should be learned in Peace and War,' replied the Goose, 'in
+marching and pitching, and seasonably placing an army in the field; for
+it is said--
+
+    'He who sets his battle wisely, conquers the unwary foe;
+    As the Owl, awaiting night-time, slew the overweening Crow.'
+
+Counsel, my Liege, is quintuple--Commencing, providing, dividing,
+repelling, and completing,'
+
+'Good!' said the King.
+
+'Power is triple,' continued the Goose, 'being of Kings, of counsels,
+and of constant effort.'
+
+'It is so!' said the King.
+
+'And expedients, my Liege,' continued the Goose, 'are quadruple, and
+consist of conciliation, of gifts, of strife-stirring, and of force of
+arms; for thus it is written--
+
+    'Whoso hath the gift of giving wisely, equitably, well;
+    Whoso, learning all men's secrets, unto none his own will tell;
+    Whoso, ever cold and courtly, utters nothing that offends,
+    Such a one may rule his fellows unto Earth's extremest ends.'
+
+'Then King Jewel-plume would be a good ally,' observed the Swan-king.
+
+'Doubtless!' said the Goose, 'but elated with victory, he will hardly
+listen to the Vulture's counsel; we must make him do it.'
+
+'How?' asked the King.
+
+'We will cause our dependent, the King of Ceylon, Strong-bill the Stork,
+to raise an insurrection in Jambudwipa.'
+
+'It is well-conceived,' said the King. And forthwith a Crane, named
+Pied-body, was dismissed with a secret message to that Rajah.
+
+'In course of time the first Crane, who had been sent as a spy, came
+back, and made his report. He related that the Vulture had advised his
+Sovereign to summon Night-cloud, the Crow, and learn from him regarding
+King Silver-sides' intentions. Night-cloud attended accordingly.
+
+'Crow!' asked King Jewel-plume, 'what sort of a Monarch is the Rajah
+Silver-sides?'
+
+'Truthful, may it please you,' replied the Crow; 'and therewithal noble
+as Yudisthira himself.'
+
+'And his Minister, the Goose?'
+
+'Is a Minister unrivalled, my Liege,' said the Crow-king.
+
+'But how then didst thou so easily deceive them?'
+
+'Ah! your Majesty,' said the Crow, 'there was little credit in that. Is
+it not said?--
+
+    'Cheating them that truly trust you, 'tis a clumsy villainy!
+    Any knave may slay the child who climbs and slumbers on his knee.'
+
+Besides, the Minister detected me immediately. It was the King whose
+innate goodness forbade him to suspect evil in another:--
+
+    'Believe a knave, thyself scorning a lie,
+    And rue it, like the Brahman, by and by.'
+
+'What Brahman was that?' asked the King. Night-cloud replied:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE BRAHMAN AND THE GOAT
+
+"A Brahman that lived in the forest of Gautama, your Majesty. He had
+purveyed a goat to make pooja, and was returning home with it on life
+shoulder when he was descried by three knaves. 'If we could but obtain
+that goat,' said they, 'it would be a rare trick'; and they ran on, and
+seated themselves at the foot of three different trees upon the
+Brahman's road. Presently he came up with the first of them, who
+addressed him thus: 'Master! why do you carry that dog on your
+shoulder?' 'Dog!' said the Brahman, 'it is a goat for sacrifice!' With
+that he went on a coss, and came to the second knave; who called
+out--'What doest thou with that dog, Master?' The Brahman laid his goat
+upon the ground, looked it all over, took it up again upon his back, and
+walked on with his mind in a whirl; for--
+
+    'The good think evil slowly, and they pay
+    A price for faith--as witness "Crop-ear" may.'
+
+'Who was Crop-ear?' asked the King of the Peacocks.
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE CAMEL, THE LION, AND HIS COURT
+
+"A Camel, may it please you," replied Night-cloud, "who strayed away
+from a kafila, and wandered into the forest. A Lion, named
+'Fierce-fangs,' lived in that forest; and his three courtiers, a Tiger,
+a Jackal, and a Crow, met the Camel, and conducted him to their King.
+His account of himself was satisfactory, and the Lion took him into his
+service under the name of Crop-ear. Now it happened that the rainy
+season was very severe, and the Lion became indisposed, so that there
+was much difficulty in obtaining food for the Court. The courtiers
+resolved accordingly to prevail on the Lion to kill the Camel; 'for what
+interest have we,' they said, 'in this browser of thistles?'
+
+'What, indeed!' observed the Tiger; 'but will the Rajah kill him after
+his promise of protection, think you?'
+
+'Being famished he will,' said the Crow. 'Know you not?--
+
+    'Hunger hears not, cares not, spares not; no boon of the starving beg;
+    When the snake is pinched with craving, verily she eats her egg.'
+
+Accordingly they repaired to the Lion.
+
+'Hast brought me food, fellow?' growled the Rajah.
+
+'None, may it please you,' said the Crow.
+
+'Must we starve, then?' asked his Majesty.
+
+'Not unless you reject the food before you, Sire,' rejoined the Crow.
+
+'Before me! how mean you?'
+
+'I mean,' replied the Crow (and he whispered it in the Lion's ear),
+'Crop-ear, the Camel!'
+
+'Now!' said the Lion, and he touched the ground, and afterwards both
+ears, as he spoke, 'I have given him my pledge for his safety, and how
+should I slay him?'
+
+'Nay, Sire! I said not slay,' replied the Crow; 'it may be that he will
+offer himself for food. To that your Majesty would not object?'
+
+'I am parlous hungry,' muttered the Lion.
+
+'Then the Crow went to find the Camel, and, bringing all together before
+the King under some pretence or other, he thus addressed him:--
+
+'Sire! our pains are come to nothing: we can get no food, and we behold
+our Lord falling away,
+
+    'Of the Tree of State the root
+    Kings are--feed what brings the fruit.'
+
+Take me, therefore, your Majesty, and break your fast upon me."
+
+'Good Crow,' said the Lion, 'I had liefer die than do so.'
+
+'Will your Majesty deign to make a repast upon me?' asked the Jackal.
+
+'On no account!' replied the Lion.
+
+'Condescend, my Lord,' said the Tiger, 'to appease your hunger with my
+poor flesh.'
+
+'Impossible!' responded the Lion.
+
+'Thereupon Crop-ear, not to be behind in what seemed safe, made offer of
+his own carcase, which was accepted before he had finished; the Tiger
+instantly tearing his flank open, and all the rest at once devouring
+him.
+
+'The Brahman,' continued Night-cloud, 'suspected nothing more than did
+the Camel; and when the third knave had broken his jest upon him for
+bearing a dog, he threw it down, washed himself clean of the
+contamination, and went home; while the knaves secured and cooked his
+goat.'
+
+'But, Night-cloud,' asked the Rajah, 'how couldst thou abide so long
+among enemies, and conciliate them?'
+
+'It is easy to play the courtier for a purpose,' said Night-cloud--
+
+    'Courtesy may cover malice; on their heads the woodmen bring,
+    Meaning all the while to burn them, logs and fagots--oh, my King!
+    And the strong and subtle river, rippling at the cedar's foot,
+    While it seems to lave and kiss it, undermines the hanging root.'
+
+Indeed, it has been said--
+
+    'A wise man for an object's sake
+    His foe upon his back will take,
+    As with the Frogs once did the Snake.'
+
+'How was that?' asked the Peacock-King. The Crow related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE FROGS AND THE OLD SERPENT
+
+"In a deserted garden there once lived a Serpent, 'Slow-coil' by name;
+who had reached an age when he was no longer able to obtain his own
+food. Lying listlessly by the edge of a pond, he was descried by a
+certain Frog, and interrogated--
+
+'Have you given up caring for food, Serpent?'
+
+'Leave me, kindly Sir,' replied the subtle reptile; 'the griefs of a
+miserable wretch like me cannot interest your lofty mind.'
+
+'Let me at least hear them,' said the Frog, somewhat flattered.
+
+'You must know, then, gracious Sir,' began the Serpent, 'that it is now
+twenty years since here, in Brahmapoora, I bit the son of Kaundinya, a
+holy Brahman; of which cruel bite he died. Seeing his boy dead,
+Kaundinya abandoned himself to despair, and grovelled in his distress
+upon the ground. Thereat came all his kinsmen, citizens of Brahmapoora,
+and sat down with him, as the manner is--
+
+    'He who shares his brother's portion, be he beggar, be he lord,
+    Comes as truly, comes as duly, to the battle as the board;
+
+    Stands before the King to succor, follows to the pile to sigh;
+    He is friend and he is kinsman--less would make the name a lie.'
+
+Then spoke a twice-passed Brahman,[21] Kapila by name, 'O Kaundinya!
+thou dost forget thyself to lament thus. Hear what is written--
+
+    'Weep not! Life the hired nurse is, holding us a little space;
+    Death, the mother who doth take us back into our proper place.'
+
+    'Gone, with all their gauds and glories: gone, like peasants, are the
+            Kings,
+    Whereunto the world is witness, whereof all her record rings.'
+
+What, indeed, my friend, is this mortal frame, that we should set store
+by it?--
+
+    'For the body, daily wasting, is not seen to waste away,
+    Until wasted, as in water set a jar of unbaked clay.'
+
+    'And day after day man goeth near and nearer to his fate,
+    As step after step the victim thither where its slayers wait.'
+
+Friends and kinsmen--they must all be surrendered! Is it not said--
+
+    'Like as a plank of drift-wood
+      Tossed on the watery main,
+    Another plank encountered,
+      Meets--touches--parts again;
+    So tossed, and drifting ever,
+      On life's unresting sea,
+    Men meet, and greet, and sever,
+      Parting eternally.'
+
+Thou knowest these things, let thy wisdom chide thy sorrow, saying--
+
+    'Halt, traveller! rest i' the shade: then up and leave it!
+    Stay, Soul! take fill of love; nor losing, grieve it!'
+
+But in sooth a wise man would better avoid love; for--
+
+    'Each beloved object born
+    Sets within the heart a thorn,
+    Bleeding, when they be uptorn.'
+
+And it is well asked--
+
+    'When thine own house, this rotting frame, doth wither,
+    Thinking another's lasting--goest thou thither?'
+
+What will be, will be; and who knows not--
+
+    'Meeting makes a parting sure,
+    Life is nothing but death's door.'
+
+For truly--
+
+    'As the downward-running rivers never turn and never stay,
+    So the days and nights stream deathward, bearing human lives away.'
+
+And though it be objected that--
+
+    'Bethinking him of darkness grim, and death's unshunned pain,
+    A man strong-souled relaxes hold, like leather soaked in rain.'
+
+Yet is this none the less assured, that--
+
+    'From the day, the hour, the minute,
+      Each life quickens in the womb;
+    Thence its march, no falter in it,
+      Goes straight forward to the tomb.'
+
+Form, good friend, a true idea of mundane matters; and bethink thee that
+regret is after all but an illusion, an ignorance--
+
+    'An 'twere not so, would sorrow cease with years?
+    Wisdom sees aright what want of knowledge fears.'
+
+'Kaundinya listened to all this with the air of a dreamer. Then rising
+up he said, 'Enough! the house is hell to me--I will betake me to the
+forest.'
+
+'Will that stead you?' asked Kapila; 'nay--
+
+    'Seek not the wild, sad heart! thy passions haunt it;
+    Play hermit in thine house with heart undaunted;
+    A governed heart, thinking no thought but good,
+    Makes crowded houses holy solitude.'
+
+To be master of one's self--to eat only to prolong life--to yield to
+love no more than may suffice to perpetuate a family--and never to speak
+but in the cause of truth, this,' said Kapila, 'is armor against grief.
+What wouldst thou with a hermit's life--prayer and purification from
+sorrow and sin in holy streams? Hear this!--
+
+    'Away with those that preach to us the washing off of sin--
+    Thine own self is the stream for thee to make ablutions in:
+    In self-restraint it rises pure--flows clear in tide of truth,
+    By widening banks of wisdom, in waves of peace and ruth.
+    Bathe there, thou son of Pandu! with reverence and rite,
+    For never yet was water wet could wash the spirit white.'
+
+Resign thyself to loss. Pain exists absolutely. Ease, what is it but a
+minute's alleviation?'
+
+'It is nothing else,' said Kaundinya: 'I will resign myself!'
+Thereupon,' the Serpent continued, 'he cursed me with the curse that I
+should be a carrier of frogs, and so retired--and here remain I to do
+according to the Brahman's malediction.'
+
+'The Frog, hearing all this, went and reported it to Web-foot the
+Frog-King, who shortly came himself for an excursion on the Serpent. He
+was carried delightfully, and constantly employed the conveyance. But
+one day observing the Serpent to be sluggish, he asked the reason.
+
+'May it please you,' explained the Serpent, 'your slave has nothing to
+eat.'
+
+'Eat a few of my frogs,' said the King. 'I give you leave.'
+
+'I thank your Majesty!' answered the Serpent, and forthwith he began to
+eat the frogs, until the pond becoming clear, he finished with their
+monarch himself. 'I also,' said Night-cloud, 'stooped to conquer, but
+King Silver-sides is a good King, and I would your Majesty were at peace
+with him.'
+
+'Peace!' cried King Jewel-plume, 'shall I make peace with my vassal! I
+have vanquished him--let him serve me!'
+
+"At this moment the Parrot came in. 'Sire!' said he, breathlessly,' the
+Stork Strong-bill, Rajah of Ceylon, has raised the standard of revolt in
+Jambudwipa, and claims the country.'
+
+'What! what!' cried the King in a fury.
+
+'Excellent good, Goose!' muttered the Minister. 'This is thy work!'
+
+'Bid him but await me!' exclaimed the King, 'and I will tear him up like
+a tree!'
+
+'Ah, Sire,' said the Minister--
+
+    'Thunder for nothing, like December's cloud,
+    Passes unmarked: strike hard, but speak not loud.'
+
+We cannot march without making peace first; our rear will be attacked.'
+
+'Must it be so?' asked the King.
+
+'My Liege, it must,' replied the Vulture.
+
+'Make a peace then,' said the King, 'and make an end.'
+
+'It is well,' observed the Minister, and set out for the Court of the
+King Silver-sides. While he was yet coming, the Crane announced his
+approach.
+
+'Ah!' said the Swan-King, 'this will be another designing spy from the
+enemy.'
+
+'Misdoubt him not!' answered the Goose, smiling, 'it is the Vulture
+Far-sight, a spirit beyond suspicion. Would your Majesty be as the Swan
+that took the stars reflected in the pool for lily-buds, and being
+deceived, would eat no lily-shoots by day, thinking them stars?'
+
+'Not so! but treachery breeds mistrust,' replied the Rajah; is it not
+written--
+
+    'Minds deceived by evil natures, from the good their faith withhold;
+    When hot conjee once has burned them, children blow upon the cold.'
+
+'It is so written, my Liege,' said the Minister. 'But this one may be
+trusted. Let him be received with compliments and a gift.'
+
+'Accordingly the Vulture was conducted, with the most profound respect,
+from the fort to the King's audience-hall, where a throne was placed for
+him.
+
+'Minister,' said the Goose, 'consider us and ours at thy disposal.'
+
+'So consider us,' assented the Swan-King.
+
+'I thank you,' said Far-sight; 'but--
+
+    'With a gift the miser meet;
+    Proud men by obeisance greet;
+    Women's silly fancies soothe;
+    Give wise men their due--the truth.'
+
+'I am come to conclude a peace, not to claim your kingdom. By what mode
+shall we conclude it?'
+
+'How many modes be there?' asked King Silver-sides.
+
+'Sixteen,' replied the Vulture.
+
+'Are the alliances numbered therein?' asked the King.
+
+'No! these be four,' answered the Vulture, 'namely--of mutual help--of
+friendship--of blood--and of sacrifice.'
+
+'You are a great diplomatist!' said the King. 'Advise us which to
+choose!'
+
+'There is no Peace like the Golden "Sangata," which is made between good
+men, based on friendly feeling, and preceded by the Oath of Truth,'
+replied the Vulture.
+
+'Let us make that Peace!' said the Goose. Far-sight accordingly, with
+fresh presents of robes and jewels, accompanied the Goose to the camp of
+the Peacock-King. The Rajah, Jewel-plume, gave the Goose a gracious
+audience, accepted his terms of Peace, and sent him back to the
+Swan-King, loaded with gifts and kind speeches. The revolt in Jambudwipa
+was suppressed, and the Peacock-King retired to his own kingdom.
+
+"And now," said Vishnu-Sarman, "I have told your Royal Highnesses all.
+Is there anything remaining to be told?"
+
+"Reverend Sir!" replied the Princes, "there is nothing. Thanks to you,
+we have heard and comprehended the perfect cycle of kingly duty, and are
+content."
+
+"There remains but this, then," said their Preceptor:--
+
+      'Peace and Plenty, all fair things,
+      Grace the realm where ye reign Kings;
+      Grief and loss come not anigh you,
+      Glory guide and magnify you;
+      Wisdom keep your statesmen still
+      Clinging fast, in good or ill,
+      Clinging, like a bride new-wed,
+      Unto lips, and breast, and head:
+    And day by day, that these fair things befall,
+    The Lady Lukshmi give her grace to all.'
+
+
+[21] A young Brahman, being invested with the sacred thread, and having
+concluded his studies, becomes of the second order: a householder.
+
+
+
+
+NALA AND DAMAYANTI
+
+[_Selected from the "Mahâbhârata" Translation by Sir Edwin Arnold_]
+
+
+INTRODUCTION
+
+
+The "Mahâbhârata" is the oldest epic in Sanscrit literature, and is
+sevenfold greater in bulk than the "Iliad" and "Odyssey" taken together.
+This remarkable poem contains almost all the history of ancient India,
+so far as it can be recovered, together with inexhaustible details of
+its political, social, and religious life--in fact, the antique Hindoo
+world stands epitomized in it. The Old Testament is not more interwoven
+with the Jewish race, nor the New Testament with the civilization of
+Christendom, nor even the Koran with the records and destinies of Islam,
+than is this great Sanscrit poem with the unchanging and teeming
+population of Hindostan. The stories, songs, and ballads, the
+genealogies, the nursery tales and religious discourses, the art, the
+learning, the philosophy, the creeds, the modes of thought, the very
+phrases and daily ideas of the Hindoo people are taken from this poem.
+Their children are named after its heroes; so are their cities, streets,
+and even cattle. It is the spiritual life of the Hindoo people. It is
+personified, worshipped, and cited as being something divine. To read,
+or even to listen, is to the devout Hindoo sufficiently meritorious to
+bring prosperity to the fireside in this world, and happiness in the
+world to come.
+
+The western world has as yet only received the "Mahâbhârata" in
+fragments--mere specimens, bearing to those vast treasures of Sanscrit
+literature such small proportion as cabinet samples of ore have to the
+riches of a mine. Such knowledge as we have of the great Indian epics is
+largely due to Sir William Jones, and the host of translators who
+followed him.
+
+In its present shape the "Mahâbhârata" contains some two hundred
+thousand verses. The style is forcible, often terse and nervous: the
+action is well sustained, and the whole effect produced is that of a
+poem written in commemoration of actual conflict between members of
+rival clans who lived somewhere southeast of the Punjab. In portrayal of
+character the Hindoo poem somewhat resembles its Grecian
+counterpart--the "Iliad"; the noble devotion and chivalric character of
+its chief hero, Arjuna, reminds us of Hector--and the wily, sinful
+Duryodhana, is a second Ulysses. The "Mahâbhârata" was probably begun in
+the third or fourth century B.C., and completed soon after the beginning
+of the Christian era.
+
+The "Bhârata" war is a war between rival cousins of the house of
+Bhârata, a race of heroes mentioned in the Rig-veda collection.
+Duryodhana deprives his cousin Yudhisthira of his throne by inducing him
+to squander his fortune, kingdom, family, and self--and then banishes
+Yudhisthira and the latter's four brothers for twelve years. The
+gambling was conducted in an unfair manner, and the cousins feel that
+their banishment was the result of treachery, although pretended to be
+mercy in lieu of death. When the twelve years are over they collect
+armies of sympathizers, and on the Sacred Plain of the Kurus (the Holy
+Land of India) the great war is fought out. The good prevails,
+Duryodhana is slain, and Yudhisthira recovers his kingdom. This story is
+told so graphically that the "Mahâbhârata" still has the charm that
+comes from plot and action, as well as that of poetic beauty.
+
+A concluding passage of this great poem says: "The reading of this
+'Mahâbhârata' destroys all sin and produces virtue, so much so that the
+pronunciation of a single shloka is sufficient to wipe away much guilt.
+It has bound human beings in a chain, of which one end is life and the
+other death. If a man reads the 'Mahâbhârata' and has faith in its
+doctrines, he is free from all sin and ascends to heaven after his
+death."
+
+The present selection is the episode of Nala and Damayanti. It is one of
+the most charming of the "Mahâbhârata" stories, and its Oriental flavor
+and delicacy have been well preserved by the translator, Sir Edwin
+Arnold.
+
+L.F.C.
+
+
+
+
+THE MAHÂBHÂRATA
+
+
+NALA AND DAMAYANTI
+
+Part I
+
+
+    A prince there was, named Nala, Virasen's noble breed,
+    Goodly to see, and virtuous; a tamer of the steed;
+    As Indra 'midst the gods, so he of kings was kingliest one,
+    Sovereign of men, and splendid as the golden, glittering sun;
+    Pure, knowing scripture, gallant; ruling nobly Nishadh's lands;
+    Dice-loving, but a proud, true chief of her embattled bands;
+    By lovely ladies lauded; free, trained in self-control;
+    A shield and bow; a Manu on earth; a royal soul!
+    And in Vidarbha's city the Raja Bhima dwelled;
+    Save offspring, from his perfect bliss no blessing was withheld;
+    For offspring, many a pious rite full patiently he wrought,
+    Till Damana the Brahman unto his house was brought.
+    Him Bhima, ever reverent, did courteously entreat,
+    Within the Queen's pavilion led him, to rest and eat;
+    Whereby that sage, grown grateful, gave her--for joy of joys--
+    A girl, the gem of girlhood, and three brave lusty boys--
+    Damana, Dama, Dânta, their names:--Damayanti she;
+    No daughter more delightful, no sons could goodlier be.
+    Stately and bright and beautiful did Damayanti grow;
+    No land there was which did not the Slender-waisted know;
+    A hundred slaves her fair form decked with robe and ornament--
+    Like Śachi's self to serve her a hundred virgins bent;
+    And 'midst them Bhima's daughter, in peerless glory dight,
+    Gleamed as the lightning glitters against the murk of night;
+    Having the eyes of Lakshmi, long-lidded, black, and bright--
+    Nay--never Gods, nor Yakshas, nor mortal men among
+    Was one so rare and radiant e'er seen, or sued, or sung
+    As she, the heart-consuming, in heaven itself desired.
+    And Nala, too, of princes the Tiger-Prince, admired
+    Like Kama was; in beauty an embodied lord of love:
+    And ofttimes Nala praised they all other chiefs above
+    In Damayanti's hearing; and oftentimes to him,
+    With worship and with wonder, her beauty they would limn;
+    So that, unmet, unknowing, unseen, in each for each
+    A tender thought of longing grew up from seed of speech;
+    And love (thou son of Kunti!) those gentle hearts did reach.
+      Thus Nala--hardly bearing in his heart
+    Such longing--wandered in his palace-woods,
+    And marked some water-birds, with painted plumes,
+    Disporting. One, by stealthy steps, he seized;
+    But the sky-traveller spake to Nala this:--
+    "Kill me not, Prince, and I will serve thee well.
+    For I, in Damayanti's ear, will say
+    Such good of Nishadh's lord, that nevermore
+    Shall thought of man possess her, save of thee."
+      Thereat the Prince gladly gave liberty
+    To his soft prisoner, and all the swans
+    Flew, clanging, to Vidarbha--a bright flock--
+    Straight to Vidarbha, where the Princess walked;
+    And there, beneath her eyes, those winged ones
+    Lighted. She saw them sail to earth, and marked--
+    Sitting amid her maids--their graceful forms;
+    While those for wantonness 'gan chase the swans,
+    Which fluttered this and that way through the grove:
+    Each girl with tripping feet her bird pursued,
+    And Damayanti, laughing, followed hers;
+    Till--at the point to grasp--the flying prey
+    Deftly eluding touch, spake as men speak,
+    Addressing Bhima's daughter:--
+                                  "Lady dear!
+    Loveliest Damayanti! Nala dwells
+    In near Nishadha: oh, a noble Prince,
+    Not to be matched of men; an Aświn he,
+    For goodliness. Incomparable maid!
+    Wert thou but wife to that surpassing chief,
+    Rich would the fruit grow from such lordly birth,
+    Such peerless beauty. Slender-waisted one,
+    Gods, men, and Gandharvas have we beheld,
+    But never none among them like to him.
+    As thou art pearl of princesses, so he
+    Is crown of princes; happy would it fall,
+    One such perfection should another wed."
+      And when she heard that bird (O King of men!)
+    The Princess answered: "Go, dear swan, and tell
+    This same to Nala;" and the egg-born said,
+    "I go"--and flew; and told the Prince of all.
+      But Damayanti, having heard the bird,
+    Lived fancy-free no more; by Nala's side
+    Her soul dwelt, while she sat at home distraught,
+    Mournful and wan, sighing the hours away,
+    With eyes upcast, and passion-laden looks;
+    So that, eftsoons, her limbs failed, and her mind--
+    With love o'erweighted--found no rest in sleep,
+    No grace in company, no joy at feasts.
+    Nor night nor day brought peace; always she heaved
+    Sigh upon sigh, till all her maidens knew--
+    By glance and mien and moan--how changed she was,
+    Her own sweet self no more. Then to the King
+    They told how Damayanti loved the Prince.
+    Which thing when Bhima from her maidens heard,
+    Deep pondering for his child what should be done,
+    And why the Princess was beside herself,
+    That lord of lands perceived his daughter grown,
+    And knew that for her high Swayamvara
+    The time was come.
+                       So, to the Rajas all
+    The King sent word: "Ye Lords of Earth, attend
+    Of Damayanti the Swayamvara."
+    And when these learned of her Swayamvara,
+    Obeying Bhima, to his court they thronged--
+    Elephants, horses, cars--over the land
+    In full files wending, bearing flags and wreaths
+    Of countless hues, with gallant companies
+    Of fighting men. And those high-hearted chiefs
+    The strong-armed King welcomed with worship fair,
+    As fitted each, and led them to their seats.
+      Now at that hour there passed towards Indra's heaven,
+    Thither from earth ascending, those twain saints--
+    The wise, the pure, the mighty-minded ones,
+    The self-restrained--Narad and Parvata.
+    The mansion of the Sovereign of the Gods
+    In honor entered they; and he, the Lord
+    Of Clouds, dread Indra, softly them salutes,
+    Inquiring of their weal, and of the world
+    Wherethrough their name was famous, how it fares.
+      Then Narad said: "Well is it, Lord of Gods,
+    With us, and with our world; and well with those
+    Who rule the peoples, O thou King in Heaven!"
+      But He that slew the Demons spake again:--
+    "The princes of the earth, just-minded, brave,
+    Those who, in battle fearing not to fall,
+    See death on the descending blade, and charge
+    Full front against it, turning not their face--
+    Theirs is this realm eternal, as to me
+    The cow of plenty, Kâmadhuk, belongs.
+    Where be my Kshatriya warriors? Wherefore now
+    See I none coming of those slaughtered lords,
+    Chiefs of mankind, our always honored guests?"
+      And unto Indra Narad gave reply:--
+    "King of the Air! no wars are waged below;
+    None fall in fight, to enter here. The Lord
+    Of high Vidarbha hath a daughter, famed
+    For loveliness beyond all earthly maids,
+    The Princess Damayanti, far-renowned.
+    Of her, dread Sakra! the Swayamvara
+    Shall soon befall, and thither now repair
+    The kings and princes of all lands, to woo--
+    Each for himself--this pearl of womanhood.
+    For oh, thou Slayer of the Demons, all
+    Desire the maid."
+                     Drew round, while Narad spake,
+    The Masters, th'Immortals, pressing in
+    With Agni and the Greatest, near the throne,
+    To listen to the speech of Narada;
+    Whom having heard, all cried delightedly,
+    "We, too, will go." Thereupon those high gods,
+    With chariots, and with heavenly retinues,
+    Sped to Vidarbha, where the kings were met.
+    And Nala, knowing of this kingly tryst,
+    Went thither joyous, heart-full with the thought
+    Of Damayanti.
+                  Thus it chanced the gods
+    Beheld the Prince wending along his road,
+    Goodly of mien, as is the Lord of Love.
+    The world's Protectors saw him, like a sun
+    For splendor; and, in very wonder, paused
+    Some time irresolute, so fair he was;
+    Then in mid-sky their golden chariots stayed,
+    And through the clouds descending called to him:--
+    "Abo! Nala of Nishadha! Noblest Prince,
+    Be herald for us; bear our message now."
+      "Yea!" Nala made reply, "this will I do"--
+    And then--palm unto palm in reverence pressed--
+    Asked: "Shining Ones, who are ye? Unto whom,
+    And what words bearing, will ye that I go?
+    Deign to instruct me what it is ye bid."
+    Thus the Prince spake, and Indra answered him:--
+    "Thou seest th'immortal gods. Indra am I,
+    And this is Agni, and the other here,
+    Varuna, Lord of Waters; and beyond,
+    Yama, the King of Death, who parteth souls
+    From mortal frames. To Damayanti go;
+    Tell our approach. Say this: 'The world's dread lords,
+    Wishful to see thee, come; desiring thee--
+    Indra, Varuna, Agni, Yama, all.
+    Choose of these powers to which thou wilt be given.'"
+    But Nala, hearing that, joined palms again,
+    And cried: "Ah, send me not, with one accord
+    For this, most mighty Gods! How should a man
+    Sue for another, being suitor too?
+    How bear such errand? Have compassion, Gods!"
+      Then spake they: "Yet thou saidst, 'This shall I do,'
+    Nishadha's Prince! and wilt thou do it not,
+    Forswearing faith? Nay, but depart, and soon!"
+      So bid, but lingering yet again, he said:--
+    "Well guarded are the gates; how shall I find
+    Speech with her?"
+                      "Thou shalt find," Indra replied.
+    And, lo! upon that word Nala was brought
+    To Damayanti's chamber. There he saw
+    Vidarbha's glory, sitting 'mid her maids,
+    In majesty and grace surpassing all;
+    So exquisite, so delicate of form,
+    Waist so fine-turned, such limbs, such lighted eyes,
+    The moon hath meaner radiance than she.
+    Love at the sight of that soft smiling face
+    Sprang to full passion, while he stood and gazed.
+    Yet, faith and duty urging, he restrained
+    His beating heart; but when those beauteous maids
+    Spied Nala, from their cushions they uprose,
+    Startled to see a man, yet startled more
+    Because he showed so heavenly bright and fair.
+    In wondering pleasure each saluted him,
+    Uttering no sound, but murmuring to themselves:--
+    "Aho! the grace of him: aho! the brilliance;
+    Aho! what glorious strength lives in his limbs!
+    What is he? Is he God, Gandharva, Yaksha?"
+    But this unspoken, for they dared not breathe
+    One syllable, all standing shyly there
+    To see him, and to see his youth so sweet.
+    Yet, softly glancing back to his soft glance,
+    The Princess, presently, with fluttering breath,
+    Accosted Nala, saying: "Fairest Prince,
+    Who by thy faultless form hath filled my heart
+    With sudden joy, coming as come the gods,
+    Unstayed, I crave to know thee, who thou art;
+    How didst thou enter? how wert thou unseen?
+    Our palace is close-guarded, and the King
+    Hath issued mandates stern."
+                                Tenderly spake
+    The Prince, replying to those tender words:--
+    "Most lovely! I am Nala. I am come
+    A herald of the gods unto thee here.
+    The gods desire thee, the immortal Four--
+    Indra, Varuna, Yama, Agni. Choose,
+    O Brightest! one from these to be thy lord.
+    By their help is it I have entered in
+    Unseen; none could behold me at thy gates,
+    Nor stay me, passing; and to speak their will
+    They sent me, fairest one and best. Do thou,
+    Knowing the message, judge as seemeth well."
+      She bowed her head, hearing the great gods named,
+    And then, divinely smiling, said to him:--
+    "Pledge thyself faithfully to me, and I
+    Will seek, O Raja, only how to pay
+    That debt with all I am, with all I have;
+    For I and mine are thine--in full trust thine.
+    Make me that promise, Prince. Thy gentle name--
+    Sung by the swan--first set my thoughts afire;
+    And for thy sake--only for thee--sweet Lord,
+    The kings were summoned hither. If, alas!
+    Fair Prince, thou dost reject my sudden love,
+    So proffered, then must poison, flame, or flood,
+    Or knitted cord, be my sad remedy."
+      So spake Vidarbha's Pride; and Nala said:--
+    "With gods so waiting--with the world's dread lords
+    Hastening to woo, canst thou desire a man?
+    Bethink! I, unto these, that make and mar,
+    These all-wise ones, almighty, am like dust
+    Under their feet: lift thy heart to the height
+    Of what I bring. If mortal man offend
+    The most high gods, death is what springs of it.
+    Spare me to live, thou faultless lady! Choose
+    Which of these excellent great gods thou wilt;
+    Wear the unstained robes! bear on thy brows
+    The wreaths which never fade, of heavenly blooms!
+    Be, as thou mayest, a goddess, and enjoy
+    Godlike delights! Him who enfolds the earth,
+    Creating and consuming, Brightest Power,
+    Hutâsa, Eater of the Sacrifice,
+    What woman would not take? Or him whose rod
+    Herds all the generations forward still
+    On virtue's path, Red Yama, King of Death,
+    What woman would affront? Or him, the all-good,
+    All-wise destroyer of the Demons, first
+    In heaven, Mahendra--who of womankind
+    Is there that would not wed? Or, if thy mind
+    Incline, doubt not to choose Varuna; he
+    Is of these world-protectors. From a heart
+    Full friendly cometh what I tell thee now."
+      Unto Nishadha's Prince the maid replied--
+    Tears of distress dimming her lustrous eyes---
+    "Humbly I reverence these mighty gods;
+    But thee I choose, and thee I take for lord;
+    And this I vow!"
+                     With folded palms she stood,
+    And trembling lips, while his faint answer fell:--
+    "Sent on such embassy, how shall I dare
+    Speak, sweetest Princess, for myself to thee?
+    Bound by my promise for the gods to sue,
+    How can I be a suitor for myself?
+    Silence is here my duty; afterwards,
+    If I shall come, in mine own name I'll come,
+    Mine own cause pleading. Ah, might that so be!"
+      Checking her tears, Damayanti sadly smiled,
+    And said full soft: "One way of hope I see,
+    A blameless way, O Lord of men! wherefrom
+    No fault shall rise, nor any danger fall.
+    Thou also, Prince, with Indra and these gods,
+    Must enter in where my Swayamvara
+    Is held; then I, in presence of those gods,
+    Will choose thee, dearest, for my lord; and so
+    Blame shall not light on thee,"
+                                    With which sweet words
+    Soft in his ears, Nishadha straight returned
+    There where the gods were gathered, waiting him;
+    Whom the world's masters, on his way, perceived,
+    And, spying, questioned, asking for his news:--
+    "Saw'st thou her, Prince? Didst see the sweet-lipped one?
+    What spake she of us? Tell us true; tell all!"
+      Quoth Nala: "By your worshipful behest
+    Sent to her house, the great gates entered I,
+    Though the gray porters watched; but none might spy
+    My entering, by your power, O radiant Ones,
+    Saving the Raja's daughter; her I saw
+    Amid her maidens, and by them was seen.
+    On me with much amazement they did gaze
+    Whilst I your high Divinities extolled.
+    But she that hath the lovely face, with mind
+    Set upon me, hath chosen me, ye Gods.
+    For thus she spake, my Princess: 'Let them come,
+    And come thou, like a lordly tiger, too,
+    Unto the place of my Swayamvara;
+    There will I choose thee in their presence, Prince,
+    To be my lord; and so there will not fall
+    Blame, thou strong-armed! to thee,' This she did say
+    Even as I tell it; and what shall be next,
+    To will is yours, O ye immortal Ones!"
+      Soon, when the moon was good, and day and hour
+    Were found propitious, Bhima, King of men,
+    Summoned the chiefs to the Swayamvara;
+    Upon which message all those eager lords
+    For love of Damayanti hastened there.
+    Glorious with gilded pillars was the court,
+    Whereto a gate-house opened, and thereby
+    Into the square, like lions from the hills,
+    Paced the proud guests; and there their seats they took,
+    Each in his rank, the masters of the lands,
+    With crowns of fragrant blossoms garlanded,
+    And polished jewels swinging in their ears.
+    Of some the thews, knitted and rough, stood forth
+    Like iron maces; some had slender limbs,
+    Sleek and fine-turned like the five-headed snake;
+    Lords with long-flowing hair; glittering lords;
+    High-nosed, and eagle-eyed, and heavy-browed;
+    The faces of those kings shone in a ring
+    As shine at night the stars; and that great square
+    As thronged with Rajas was as Naga-land
+    Is full of serpents; thick with warlike chiefs
+    As mountain-caves with panthers. Unto these
+    Entered, in matchless majesty of form,
+    The Princess Damayanti. As she came,
+    The glory of her ravished eyes and hearts,
+    So that the gaze of all those haughty kings,
+    Fastening upon her loveliness, grew fixed--
+    Not moving save with her--step after step
+    Onward and always following the maid.
+      But while the styles and dignities of all
+    Were cried aloud (O son of Bhârat!), lo!
+    The Princess marked five of that throng alike
+    In form and garb and visage. There they stood,
+    Each from the next undifferenced, but each
+    Nala's own self;--yet which might Nala be
+    In nowise could that doubting maid descry.
+    Who took her eye seemed Nala while she gazed,
+    Until she looked upon his like; and so
+    Pondered the lovely lady, sore-perplexed,
+    Thinking, "How shall I tell which be the gods,
+    And which is noble Nala?" Deep-distressed
+    And meditative waxed she, musing hard
+    What those signs were, delivered us of old,
+    Whereby gods may be known: "Of all those signs
+    Taught by our elders, lo! I see not one
+    Where stand yon five." So murmured she, and turned
+    Over and over every mark she knew.
+    At last, resolved to make the gods themselves
+    Her help at need, with reverent air and voice
+    Humbly saluted she those heavenly ones,
+    And with joined palms and trembling accents spake:--
+    "As, when I heard the swans, I chose my Prince,
+    By that sincerity I call ye, Gods,
+    To show my Love to me and make me know!
+    As in my heart and soul and speech I stand
+    True to my choice, by that sincerity
+    I call the all-knowing gods to make me know!
+    As the high gods created Nishadha's chief
+    To be my lord, by their sincerity
+    I bid them show themselves, and make me know!
+    As my vow, sealed to him, must be maintained
+    For his name, and for mine, I call the gods
+    By such sincerity to make me know!
+    Let them appear, the masters of the world--
+    The high gods--each one in his proper shape,
+    That I may see Nishadha's chief, my choice,
+    Whom minstrels praise, and Damayanti loves."
+      Hearing that earnest speech--so passion-fraught,
+    So full of truth, of strong resolve, of love,
+    Of singleness of soul and constancy--
+    Even as she spake, the gods disclosed themselves.
+    By well-seen signs the effulgent Ones she knew.
+    Shadowless stood they, with unwinking eyes,
+    And skins which never moist with sweat; their feet
+    Light-gliding o'er the ground, not touching it;
+    The unfading blossoms on their brows not soiled
+    By earthly dust, but ever fair and fresh.
+    Whilst, by their side, garbed so and visaged so,
+    But doubled by his shadow, stained with dust,
+    The flower-cups wiltering in his wreath, his skin
+    Pearly with sweat, his feet upon the earth,
+    And eyes a-wink, stood Nala. One by one
+    Glanced she on those divinities, then bent
+    Her gaze upon the Prince, and, joyous, said:--
+    "I know thee, and I name my rightful lord,
+    Taking Nishadha's chief." Therewith she drew
+    Modestly nigh, and held him by the cloth,
+    With large eyes beaming love, and round his neck
+    Hung the bright chaplet, love's delicious crown;
+    So choosing him--him only--whom she named
+    Before the face of all to be her lord.
+      Oh, then brake forth from all those suitors proud,
+    "Ha!" and "Aho!" But from the gods and saints,
+    "Sadhu! well done! well done!" And all admired
+    The happy Prince, praising the grace of him;
+    While Virasena's son, delightedly,
+    Spake to the slender-waisted these fond words:--
+    "Fair Princess! since, before all gods and men,
+    Thou makest me thy choice, right glad am I
+    Of this thy mind, and true lord will I be.
+    For so long, loveliest, as my breath endures,
+    Thine am I! Thus I plight my troth to thee."
+    So, with joined palms, unto that beauteous maid
+    His gentle faith he pledged, rejoicing her;
+    And, hand in hand, radiant with mutual love,
+    Before great Agni and the gods they passed,
+    The world's protectors worshipping.
+                                       Then those,
+    The lords of life, the powerful Ones, bestowed--
+    Being well-pleased--on Nala, chosen so,
+    Eight noble boons. The boon which Indra gave
+    Was grace, at times of sacrifice, to see
+    The visible god approach, with step divine;
+    And Agni's boon was this, that he would come
+    Whenever Nala called--for everywhere
+    Hutâsa shineth, and all worlds are his;
+    Yama gave skill in cookery, steadfastness
+    In virtue; and Varuna, King of Floods,
+    Bade all the waters ripple at his call.
+    These boons the high gods doubled by the gift
+    Of bright wreaths wove with magic blooms of heaven;
+    And those bestowed, ascended to their seats.
+    Also with wonder and with joy returned
+    The Rajas and the Maharajas all,
+    Full of the marriage-feast; for Bhima made,
+    In pride and pleasure, stately nuptials;
+    So Damayanti and the Prince were wed.
+      Then, having tarried as is wont, that lord--
+    Nishadha's chief--took the King's leave, and went
+    Unto his city, bringing home with him
+    His jewel of all womanhood, with whom
+    Blissful he lived, as lives by Śachi's side
+    The slayer of the Demons. Like a sun
+    Shone Nala on his throne, ruling his folk
+    In strength and virtue, guardian of his state.
+    Also the Aśwamedha Rite he made
+    Greatest of rites, the Offering of the Horse,
+    As did Yayâti; and all other acts
+    Of worship; and to sages gave rich gifts.
+      Many dear days of much delicious love,
+    In pleasant gardens and in shadowy groves,
+    Passed they together, sojourning like gods.
+    And Damayanti bore unto her lord
+    A boy named Indrasen, and next, a girl
+    Named Indrasena. So in happiness
+    The good Prince governed, seeing all his lands
+    Wealthy and well, in piety and peace.
+      Now at the choosing of Nishadha's chief
+    By Bhima's daughter, when those lords of life--
+    The effulgent gods--departed, Dwapara
+    They saw with Kali, coming. Indra said--
+    The Demon-slayer--spying these approach:--
+    "Whither, with Dwapara, goest thou to-day,
+    O Kali?" And the sombre Shade replied:--
+    "To Damayanti's high Swayamvara
+    I go, to make her mine, since she hath passed
+    Into my heart." But Indra, laughing, said:--
+    "Ended is that Swayamvara; for she
+    Hath taken Raja Nala for her lord,
+    Before us all," But Kali, hearing this,
+    Breaks into wrath--while he stood worshipping
+    That band divine--and furiously cries:--
+    "If she hath set a man above the gods,
+    To wed with him, for such sin let there fall
+    Doom, rightful, swift, and terrible, on her!"
+    "Nay," answered unto him those heavenly ones,
+    "But Damayanti chose with our good-will;
+    And what maid but would choose so fair a prince,
+    Seeing he hath all qualities, and knows
+    Virtue, and rightly practises the vows,
+    And reads the four great Vedas, and, what's next,
+    The Holy Stories, whilst, perpetually,
+    The gods are honored in his house with gifts?
+    No hurt he does, kind to all living things;
+    True of word is he, faithful, liberal, just;
+    Steadfast and patient, temperate and pure;
+    A king of men is Nala, like the gods.
+    He that would curse a prince of such a mould,
+    Thou foolish Kali, lays upon himself
+    A sin to crush himself; the curse comes back
+    And sinks him in the bottomless vast gulf
+    Of Narak."
+              Thus the gods to Kali spake,
+    And mounted heavenward; whereupon that Shade,
+    Frowning, to Dwapara burst forth: "My rage
+    Beareth no curb. Henceforth in Nala I
+    Will dwell; his kingdom I will make to fall;
+    His bliss with Damayanti I will mar;
+    And thou within the dice shalt enter straight,
+    And help me, Dwapara! to drag him down,"
+      Into which compact entering, those repaired--
+    Kali and Dwapara--to Nala's house,
+    And haunted in Nishadha, where he ruled,
+    Seeking occasion 'gainst the blameless Prince.
+    Long watched they; twelve years rolled ere Kali saw
+    The fateful fault arrive; Nishadha's Lord,
+    Easing himself, and sprinkling hands and lips
+    With purifying water, passed to prayer,
+    His feet unwashed, offending. Kali straight
+    Possessed the heedless Raja, entering him.
+      That hour there sat with Nala, Pushkara
+    His brother; and the evil spirit hissed
+    Into the ear of Pushkara: "Ehi!
+    Arise, and challenge Nala at the dice.
+    Throw with the Prince! it may be thou shalt win
+    (Luck helping thee, and I) Nishadha's throne,
+    Town, treasures, palace--thou mayest gain them all."
+    And Pushkara, hearing Kali's evil voice,
+    Made near to Nala, with the dice in hand
+    (A great piece for the "Bull," and little ones
+    For "Cows," and Kali hiding in the Bull).
+    So Pushkara came to Nala's side and said:--
+    "Play with me, brother, at the 'Cows and Bull';"
+    And, being put off, cried mockingly, "Nay, play!"
+    Shaming the Prince, whose spirit chafed to leave
+    A gage unfaced; but when Vidarbha's gem,
+    The Princess, heard that challenge, Nala rose:
+    "Yea, Pushkara, I will play!" fiercely he said;
+    And to the game addressed.
+                              His gems he lost,
+    Armlets and belt and necklet; next the gold
+    Of the palace and its vessels; then the cars
+    Yoked with swift steeds; and last, the royal robes:
+    For, cast by cast, the dice against him fell,
+    Bewitched by Kali; and, cast after cast,
+    The passion of the dice kept hold on him,
+    Until not one of all his faithfullest
+    Could stay the madman's hand and gamester's heart
+    Of who was named "Subduer of his Foes."
+      The townsmen gathered with the ministers:
+    Into that palace gate they thronged (my King!)
+    To see their lord, if so they might abate
+    This sickness of his soul. The charioteer,
+    Forth standing from their midst, low worshipping,
+    Spake thus to Damayanti: "Great Princess,
+    Before thy door all the grieved city sits.
+    Say to our lord for us, 'Thy folk are here;
+    They mourn that evil fortunes hold their liege,
+    Who was so high and just,'" Then she, deject,
+    Passed in, and to Nishadha's ruler said,
+    Her soft voice broken, and her bright eyes dimmed:--
+    "Raja, the people of thy town are here;
+    Before our gates they gather, citizens
+    And counsellors, desiring speech with thee;
+    In lealty they come. Wilt thou be pleased
+    We open to them? Wilt thou?" So she asked
+    Again and yet again; but not one word
+    To that sad lady with the lovely brows
+    Did Nala answer, wholly swallowed up
+    Of Kali and the gaming; so that those--
+    The citizens and counsellors--cried out,
+    "Our lord is changed! He is not Nala now!"
+    And home returned, ashamed and sorrowful;
+    Whilst ceaselessly endured that foolish play
+    Moon after moon--the Prince the loser still.
+      Then Damayanti, seeing so estranged
+    Her lord, the praised in song, the chief of men,
+    Watching, all self-possessed, his fantasy,
+    And how the gaming held him; sad, and 'feared,
+    The heavy fortunes pondering of her Prince;
+    Hating the fault, but to the offender kind;
+    And fearing Nala should be stripped of all,
+    This thing devised: Vrihatsenâ she called--
+    Her foster-nurse and faithful ministrant--
+    True, skilful at all service, soft of speech,
+    Kind-hearted; and she said, "Vrihatsenâ,
+    Go call the ministers to council now,
+    As though 'twere Nala bade; and make them count
+    What store is gone of treasure, what abides."
+    So went Vrihatsenâ, and summoned those;
+    And when they knew all things, as from the Prince,
+    "Truly we, too, shall perish!" cried they then;
+    And all to Nala went, and all the town,
+    A second time assembling, thronged his gates:--
+    Which Bhima's daughter told; but not one word
+    Answered the Prince. And when she saw her lord
+    Put by her plea, utterly slighting it,
+    Back to her chamber, full of shame, she goes,
+    And there still hears the dice are falling ill;
+    Still hears of Nala daily losing more;
+    So that again unto her nurse she spake:--
+    "Send to Varshneya, good Vrihatsenâ;
+    Say to the charioteer--in Nala's name--
+    'A great thing is to do. Come thou!'" And this--
+    So soon as Damayanti uttered it--
+    Vrihatsenâ, by faithful servants, told
+    Unto the son of Vrishni, who, being come
+    In fitting time and place, heard the sweet Queen
+    In mournful music speak these wistful words:--
+    "Thou knowest how thy Raja trusted thee;
+    Now he hath fall'n on evil; succor him!
+    The more that Pushkara conquers in the play,
+    The wilder rage of gaming takes thy lord--
+    The more for Pushkara the dice light well,
+    More contrary they happen to the Prince:
+    Nor heeds he, as were meet, kindred or friends;
+    Nay, of myself he putteth by the prayer
+    Unanswered, being bewitched; for well I deem
+    This is not noble-minded Nala's sin,
+    But some ill spell possesseth him to shut
+    His ears to me. Thou, therefore, charioteer!
+    Our refuge be; do what I shall command;
+    My heart is dark with fear. Yea, it may fall
+    Our lord will perish. Wherefore, harnessing
+    His chosen steeds, which fly as swift as thought.
+    Take these our children in the chariot
+    And drive to Kundina, delivering there
+    Unto my kin the little ones, and car,
+    And horses. Afterwards abide thou there,
+    Or otherwhere depart."
+                           Varshneya heard
+    The words of Damayanti, and forthwith
+    In Nala's council-hall recounted them,
+    The chief men being present; who, thus met,
+    And long debating, gave him leave to go.
+    So with that royal pair to Bhima's town
+    Drove he, and at Vidarbha rendered up,
+    Together with the swift steeds and the car,
+    That sweet maid Indrasena, and the Prince
+    Indrasen, and made reverence to the King,
+    Saddened for sake of Nala. Afterwards
+    Taking his leave, unto Ayodhyâ
+    Varshneya went, exceeding sorrowful,
+    And with King Rituparna (O my Prince!)
+    Took service as a charioteer.
+                                  These gone--
+    The praised-of-poets, Nala, still played on,
+    Till Pushkara his kingdom's wealth had won,
+    And whatso was to lose beside. Thereat
+    With scornful laugh mocked he that beggared Prince,
+    Saying, "One other throw; once more!--Yet sooth,
+    What canst thou stake? Nothing is left for thee
+    Save Damayanti; all the rest is mine.
+    Play we for Damayanti, if thou wilt."
+    But hearing this from Pushkara, the Prince
+    So in his heart by grief and shame was torn,
+    No word he uttered--only glared in wrath
+    Upon his mocker, upon Pushkara.
+    Then, his rich robes and jewels stripping off,
+    Uncovered, with one cloth, 'mid waiting friends
+    Sorrowful passed he forth, his great state gone;
+    The Princess, with one garment, following him,
+    Piteous to see. And there without the gates
+    Three nights they lay--Nashadha's King and Queen.
+    Upon the fourth day Pushkara proclaimed,
+    Throughout the city, "Whoso yieldeth help
+    To Nala, dieth! Let my will be known!"
+      So, for this bitter word of Pushkara's power
+    (O Yudhisthir!) the townsmen rendered not
+    Service nor love, but left them outcast there,
+    Unhelped, whom all the city should have helped.
+    Yet three nights longer tarried he, his drink
+    The common pool, his meat such fruits and roots
+    As miserable hunger plucks from earth:
+    Then fled they from those walls, the Prince going first,
+    The Princess following.
+                            After grievous days,
+    Pinched ever with sharp famine, Nala saw
+    A flock of gold-winged birds lighting anigh,
+    And to himself the famished Raja said:--
+    "Lo! here is food; this day we shall have store;"
+    Then lightly cast his cloth and covered them.
+    But these, fluttering aloft, bore with them there
+    Nala's one cloth; and, hovering overhead,
+    Uttered sharp-stinging words, reviling him
+    Even as he stood, naked to all the airs,
+    Downcast and desperate: "Thou brain-sick Prince!
+    We are the dice; we come to ravish hence
+    Thy last poor cloth; we were not well content
+    Thou shouldst depart owning a garment still."
+    And when he saw the dice take wings and fly,
+    Leaving him bare, to Damayanti spake
+    This melancholy Prince: "O Blameless One,
+    They by whose malice I am driven forth,
+    Finding no sustenance, sad, famine-gaunt--
+    They whose decree forbade Nishadha's folk
+    Should succor me, their Raja--these have come--
+    Demon and dice--and like to winged birds
+    Have borne away my cloth. To such shame fall'n,
+    Such utmost woe, wretched, demented--I
+    Thy lord am still, and counsel thee for good.
+    Attend! Hence be there many roads which go
+    Southwards: some pass Avanti's walls, and some
+    Skirt Rikshavan, the forest of the bears;
+    This wends to Vindhya's lofty peaks, and this
+    To the green banks where quick Payoshni runs
+    Seaward, between her hermitages, rich
+    In fruits and roots; and yon path leadeth thee
+    Unto Vidarbha; that to Kosala,
+    And therefrom southward--southward--far away."
+      So spake he to the Princess wistfully,
+    Between his words pointing along the paths,
+    Which she should take (O King!). But Bhima's child
+    Made answer, bowed with grief, her soft voice choked
+    With sobs, these piteous accents uttering:--
+      "My heart beats quick; my body's force is gone,
+    Thinking, dear Prince, on this which thou hast said,
+    Pointing along the paths. What! robbed of realm,
+    Stripped of thy wealth, bare, famished, parched with thirst,
+    Thus shall I leave thee in the untrodden wood?
+    Ah, no! While thou dost muse on dear days fled,
+    Hungry and weeping, I in this wild waste
+    Will charm thy griefs away, solacing thee.
+    The wisest doctors say, 'In every woe
+    No better physic is than wifely love,'
+    And, Nala, I will make it true to thee."
+      "Thou mak'st it true," he said; "thou sayest well,
+    Sweet Damayanti; neither is there friend
+    To sad men given better than a wife.
+    I had not thought to leave thee, foolish Love!
+    Why didst thou fear? Alas, 't is from myself
+    That I would fly--not thee, thou Faultless One!"
+      "Yet, if," the Princess answered, "Maharaja!
+    Thou hadst no thought to leave me, why by thee
+    Was the way pointed to Vidarbha's walls?
+    I know thou wouldst not quit me, noblest Lord,
+    Being thyself, but only if thy mind
+    Were sore distraught; and see, thou gazest still
+    Along the southward road, my dread thereby
+    Increasing, thou that wert as are the gods!
+    If it be thy fixed thought, 'Twere best she went
+    Unto her people'--be it so; I go;
+    But hand in hand with thee. Thus let us fare
+    Unto Vidarbha, where the King, my sire,
+    Will greet thee well, and honor thee; and we
+    Happy and safe within his gates shall dwell."
+      "As is thy father's kingdom," Nala said,
+    "So, once, was mine. Be sure, whatever betide,
+    Never will I go thither! How, in sooth,
+    Should I, who came there glorious, gladdening thee,
+    Creep back, thy shame and scorn, disconsolate?"
+      So to sweet Damayanti spake the Prince,
+    Beguiling her, whom now one cloth scarce clad--
+    For but one garb they shared; and thus they strayed
+    Hither and thither, faint for meat and drink,
+    Until a little hut they spied; and there,
+    Nishadha's monarch, entering, sat him down
+    On the bare ground, the Princess by his side--
+    Vidarbha's glory, wearing that scant cloth,
+    Without a mat, soiled by the dust and mire.
+    At Damayanti's side he sank asleep,
+    Outworn; and beauteous Damayanti slept,
+    Spent with strange trials--- she so gently reared,
+    So soft and holy. But while slumbering thus,
+    No peaceful rest knew Nala. Trouble-tossed
+    He woke, forever thinking of his realm
+    Lost, lieges estranged, and all the griefs
+    Of that wild wood. These on his heart came back,
+    And, "What if I shall do it? What, again,
+    If I shall do it not?" So murmured he.
+    "Would death be better, or to leave my Love?
+    For my sake she endures this woe, my fate
+    Too fondly sharing; freed from me, her steps
+    Would turn unto her people. At my side,
+    Sure suffering is her portion; but apart,
+    It might be she would somewhere comfort find."
+      Thus with himself debating o'er and o'er,
+    The Prince resolves abandonment were best.
+    "For how," saith he, "should any in the wood
+    Harm her, so radiant in her grace, so good,
+    So noble, virtuous, faithful, famous, pure?"
+    Thus mused his miserable mind, seduced
+    By Kali's cursed mischiefs to betray
+    His sleeping wife. Then, seeing his loin-cloth gone,
+    And Damayanti clad, he drew anigh,
+    Thinking to take of hers, and muttering,
+    "May I not rend one fold, and she not know?"
+    So meditating, round the cabin crept
+    Prince Nala, feeling up and down its walls;
+    And, presently, within the purlieus found
+    A naked knife, keen-tempered; therewithal
+    Shred he away a piece, and bound it on;
+    Then made with desperate steps to seek the waste,
+    Leaving the Princess sleeping; but, anon,
+    Turns back again in changeful mood and glides
+    Into the hut, and, gazing wistfully
+    On slumbering Damayanti, moans with tears:--
+    "Ah, Sweetheart! whom nor wind nor sun before
+    Hath ever rudely touched; thou to be couched
+    In this poor hut, its floor thy bed, and I,
+    Thy lord, deserting thee, stealing from thee
+    Thy last robe! O my Love with the bright smile,
+    My slender-waisted Queen! Will she not wake
+    To madness? Yea, and when she wanders lone
+    In the dark wood, haunted with beasts and snakes,
+    How will it fare with Bhima's tender child,
+    The bright and peerless? O my life, my wife!
+    May the great sun, may the Eight Powers of air,
+    The Rudras, Maruts, and the Aświns twain,
+    Guard thee, thou true and dear one, on thy way!"
+      So to his sleeping Queen--on all the earth
+    Unmatched for beauty--spake he piteously;
+    Then breaks away once more, by Kali driven.
+    But yet another and another time
+    Stole back into the hut, for one last gaze--
+    That way by Kali dragged, this way by love.
+    Two hearts he had--the trouble-stricken Prince--
+    One beating "Go," one throbbing "Stay"; and thus
+    Backwards and forwards swung his mind between,
+    Till, mastered by the sorrow and the spell,
+    Frantic flies Nala, leaving there alone
+    That tender-sleeper, sighing as she slept.
+    He flies--the soulless prey of Kali flies;
+    Still, while he hurries through the forest drear,
+    Thinking upon that sweet face he hath left.
+      Far distant (King!) was Nala, when, refreshed,
+    The slender-waisted wakened, shuddering
+    At the wood's silence; but when, seeking him,
+    She found no Nala, sudden anguish seized
+    Her frightened heart, and, lifting high her voice,
+    Loud cries she: "Maharaja! Nishadha's Prince!
+    Ha, Lord! ha, Maharaja! ha, Master! why
+    Hast thou abandoned me? Now am I lost,
+    Am doomed, undone, left in this lonesome gloom.
+    Wert thou not named, O Nala, true and just?
+    Yet art thou such, to quit me while I slept?
+    And hast thou so forsaken me, thy wife--
+    Thine own fond wife--who never wrought thee wrong
+    When by all others wrong was wrought on thee?
+    Mak'st thou it good to me, now, Lord of men,
+    That love which long ago before the gods
+    Thou didst proclaim? Alas! Death will not come,
+    Except at his appointed time to men,
+    And therefore for a little I shall live,
+    Whom thou hast lived to leave. Nay, 't is a jest!
+    Ah, Truant, Runaway, enough thou play'st!
+    Come forth, my Lord!--I am afraid! Come forth!
+    Linger not, for I see--I spy thee there;
+    Thou art within yon thicket! Why not speak
+    One word, Nishadha? Nala, cruel Prince!
+    Thou know'st me, lone, and comest not to calm
+    My terrors, and be with me in my need.
+    Art gone indeed? Then I'll not mourn myself,
+    For whatso may befall me; I must think
+    How desolate thou art, and weep for thee.
+    What wilt thou do, thirsty and hungry, spent
+    With wandering, when, at nightfall, 'mid the trees
+    Thou hast me not, sweet Prince, to comfort thee?"
+      Thereat, distracted by her bitter fears,
+    Like one whose heart is fire, forward and back
+    She runs, hither and thither, weeping, wild.
+    One while she sinks to earth, one while she springs
+    Quick to her feet; now utterly overcome
+    By fear and fasting, now by grief driven mad,
+    Wailing and sobbing; till anon, with moans
+    And broken sighs and tears, Bhima's fair child,
+    The ever-faithful wife, speaks thus again:--
+    "By whomsoever's spell this harm hath fall'n
+    On Nishadha's Lord, I pray that evil one
+    May bear a bitterer plague than Nala doth!
+    To him, whoever set my guileless Prince
+    On these ill deeds, I pray some direr might
+    May bring far darker days, and life to live
+    More miserable still!"
+                          Thus, woe-begone,
+    Mourned that great-hearted wife her vanished lord,
+    Seeking him ever in the gloomy shades,
+    By wild beasts haunted. Roaming everywhere,
+    Like one possessed, frantic, disconsolate,
+    Went Bhima's daughter. "Ha, ha! Maharaja!"
+    So crying runs she, so in every place
+    Is heard her ceaseless wail, as when is heard
+    The fish-hawk's cry, which screams, and circling screams,
+    And will not stint complaining.
+                                    Suddenly,
+    Straying too near his den, a serpent's coils
+    Seized Bhima's daughter. A prodigious snake,
+    Glittering and strong, and furious for food,
+    Knitted about the Princess. She, o'erwhelmed
+    With horror, and the cold enfolding death,
+    Spends her last breaths in pitiful laments
+    For Nala, not herself. "Ah, Prince!" she cried,
+    "That would have saved me, who must perish now,
+    Seized in the lone wood by this hideous snake,
+    Why art thou not beside me? What will be
+    Thy thought, Nishadha! me remembering
+    In days to come, when, from the curse set free,
+    Thou hast thy noble mind again, thyself,
+    Thy wealth--all save thy wife? Then thou'lt be sad,
+    Be weary, wilt need food and drink; but I
+    Shall minister no longer. Who will tend
+    My Love, my Lord, my Lion among kings,
+    My blameless Nala--Damayanti dead?"
+      That hour a hunter, roving through the brake,
+    Heard her bewailing, and with quickened steps
+    Made nigh, and, spying a woman, almond-eyed,
+    Lovely, forlorn, by that fell monster knit,
+    He ran, and, as he came, with keen shaft clove,
+    Through gaping mouth and crown, th'unwitting worm,
+    Slaying it. Then the woodman from its folds
+    Freed her, and laved the snake's slime from her limbs
+    With water of the pool, comforting her
+    And giving food; and afterwards (my King!)
+    Inquiry made: "What doest, in this wood,
+    Thou with the fawn's eyes? And how earnest thou,
+    My mistress, to such pit of misery?"
+      And Damayanti, spoken fair by him,
+    Recounted all which had befallen her.
+      But, gazing on her graces, scantly clad
+    With half a cloth, those smooth, full sides, those breasts
+    Beauteously swelling, form of faultless mould,
+    Sweet youthful face, fair as the moon at full,
+    And dark orbs, by long curving lashes swept;
+    Hearing her tender sighs and honeyed speech,
+    The hunter fell to hot desire; he dared
+    Essay to woo, with whispered words at first,
+    And next by amorous approach, the Queen;
+    Who, presently perceiving what he would,
+    And all that baseness of him--being so pure,
+    So chaste, and faithful--like a blazing torch
+    Took fire of scorn and anger 'gainst the man,
+    Her true soul burning at him, till the wretch,
+    Wicked in heart, but impotent of will,
+    Glared on her, splendidly invincible
+    In weakness, loftily defying wrong,
+    A living flame of lighted chastity.
+    She then--albeit so desolate, so lone,
+    Abandoned by her lord, stripped of her state--
+    Like a proud princess stormed, flinging away
+    All terms of supplication, cursing him
+    With wrath which scorched: "If I am clean in heart
+    And true in thought unto Nishadha's King,
+    Then mayest thou, vile pursuer of the beasts,
+    Sink to the earth, stone dead!"
+                                    While she did speak,
+    The hunter breathless fell to earth, stone dead,
+    As falls a tree-trunk blasted by the bolt.
+      That ravisher destroyed, the lotus-eyed
+    Fared forward, threading still the fearful wood,
+    Lonely and dim, with trill of jhillikas[22]
+    Resounding, and fierce noise of many beasts
+    Laired in its shade, lions and leopards, deer,
+    Close-hiding tigers, sullen bisons, wolves,
+    And shaggy bears. Also the glades of it
+    Were filled with fowl which crept, or flew, and cried.
+    A home for savage men and murderers,
+    Thick with a world of trees, whereof was sal,
+    Sharp-seeded, weeping gum; knotted bambus,
+    Dhavas with twisted roots; smooth aswatthas,
+    Large-leaved, and creeping through the cloven rocks;
+    Tindukas, iron-fibred, dark of grain;
+    Ingudas, yielding oil; and kinsukas,
+    With scarlet flowerets flaming. Thronging these
+    Were arjuns and arishta-clumps, which bear
+    The scented purple clusters; syandans,
+    And tall silk-cotton trees, and mango-belts
+    With silvery spears; and wild rose-apple, blent
+    'Mid lodhra-tufts and khadirs, interknit
+    By clinging rattans, climbing everywhere
+    From stem to stem. Therewith were intermixed--
+    Round pools where rocked the lotus--âmalaks,
+    Plakshas with fluted leaves, kadambas sweet,
+    Udumbaras; and, on the jungle-edge,
+    Tangles of reed and jujube, whence there rose
+    Bel-trees and nyagrodhas, dropping roots
+    Down from the air; broad-leaved priyâlas, palms
+    And date-trees, and the gold myrobalan,
+    With copper-leaved vibhîtikas. All these
+    Crowded the wood; and many a crag it held,
+    With precious ore of metals interveined;
+    And many a creeper-covered cave wherein
+    The spoken word rolled round; and many a cleft
+    Where the thick stems were like a wall to see;
+    And many a winding stream and reedy jheel,
+    And glassy lakelet, where the woodland beasts
+    In free peace gathered.
+                            Wandering onward thus,
+    The Princess saw far-gliding forms of dread--
+    Pisâchas, Rakshasas, ill sprites and fiends
+    Which haunt, with swinging snakes, the undergrowth.
+    Dark pools she saw, and drinking-holes, and peaks
+    Wherefrom break down in tumbling cataracts
+    The wild white waters, marvellous to hear.
+    Also she passed--this daughter of a king--
+    Where snorted the fierce buffaloes, and where
+    The gray boars rooted for their food, and where
+    The black bears growled, and serpents in the grass
+    Rustled and hissed. But all along that way
+    Safe paced she in her majesty of grace,
+    High fortune, courage, constancy, and right--
+    Vidarbha's glory--seeking, all alone,
+    Lost Nala; and less terror at these sights
+    Came to sad Damayanti for herself--
+    Threading this dreadful forest--than for him.
+    Most was her mind on Nala's fate intent.
+    Bitterly grieving stood the sweet Princess
+    Upon a rock, her tender limbs a-thrill
+    With heavy fears for Nala while she spake:--
+      "Broad-chested Chief! my long-armed Lord of men!
+    Nishadha's King! Ah! whither art thou gone.
+    Leaving me thus in the unpeopled wood?
+    The Aśwamedha sacrifice thou mad'st,
+    And all the rites and royal gifts hast given,
+    A lion-hearted Prince, holy and true
+    To all save me! That which thou didst declare,
+    Hand in hand with me--once so fond and kind--
+    Recall it now--thy sacred word, thy vow,
+    Whithersoever, Raja, thou art fled.
+    Think how the message of the gold-winged swans
+    Was spoken, by thine own lips, then to me!
+    True men keep faith; this is the teaching taught
+    In Vedas, Angas, and Upangas all,
+    Hear which we may; wilt thou not, therefore, Prince--
+    Wilt thou not, terror of thy foes, keep faith,
+    Making thy promise good to cleave to me?
+    Ha, Nala, Lord! Am I not surely still
+    Thy chosen, thy beloved? Answerest not
+    Thy wife in this dark, horror-haunted shade?
+    The tyrant of the jungle, fierce and fell,
+    With jaws agape to take me, crouches nigh,
+    And thou not here to rescue me--not thou,
+    Who saidst none other in the world was dear
+    But Damayanti! Prove the fond speech true,
+    Uttered so often! Why repliest not
+    To me, thy well-beloved; me, distraught,
+    Longed for and longing; me, my Prince and pride,
+    That am so weary, weak, and miserable,
+    Stained with the mire, in this torn cloth half clad,
+    Alone and weeping, seeing no help near?
+    Ah, stag of all the herd! leav'st thou thy hind
+    Astray, regarding not these tears which roll?
+    My Nala, Maharaja! It is I
+    Who cry, thy Damayanti, true and pure,
+    Lost in the wood, and still thou answerest not!
+    High-born, high-hearted, full of grace and strength
+    In all thy limbs, shall I not find thee soon
+    On yonder hill? Shall I not see, at last,
+    In some track of this grim, beast-peopled wood,
+    Standing, or seated, or upon the leaves
+    Lying, or coming, him who is of men
+    The glory, but for me the grief-maker?
+    If not, whom shall I question, woe-begone,
+    Saying, 'In any region of this wood
+    Hast thou, perchance, seen Nala?' Is there none,
+    In all the forest, would reply to me
+    With tidings of my lord, wandered away,
+    Kingly in mind and form, of hosts of foes
+    The conqueror? Who will say, with blessed voice,
+    'That Raja with the lotus-eyes is near,
+    Whom thou dost seek'?--Nay, here comes one to ask,
+    The yellow forest-king, his great jaws armed
+    With fourfold fangs. A tiger standeth now
+    Face to face on my path; I'll speak with him
+    Fearlessly: 'Dreadful chief of all this waste,
+    Thou art the sovereign of the beasts, and I
+    Am daughter of Vidarbha's King; my name,
+    The Princess Damayanti; know thou me,
+    Wife of Nishadha's Lord--of Nala--styled
+    "Subduer of his Foes"? Him seek I here--
+    Abandoned, sorrow-stricken, miserable.
+    Comfort me, mighty beast, if so thou canst,
+    Saying thou hast seen Nala; but if this
+    Thou canst not do, then, ah, thou savage lord,
+    Terrible friend, devour me, setting me
+    Free from all woes!' The tiger answereth not;
+    He turns, and quits me in my tears, to stalk
+    Down where the river glitters through the reeds,
+    Seeking its seaward way. Then will I pray
+    Unto yon sacred mount of clustered crags,
+    Broad-shouldered, shining, lifting high to heaven
+    Its diverse-colored peaks, where the mind climbs
+    Its hid heart rich with silver veins, and gold,
+    And stored with many a precious gem unseen.
+    Clear towers it o'er the forest, broad and bright
+    Like a green banner; and the sides of it
+    House many a living thing--lions and boars,
+    Tigers and elephants, and bears and deer.
+    Softly around me from its feathered flocks
+    The songs ring, perched upon the kinsuk trees,
+    The asokas, vakuls, and punnâga boughs,
+    Or hidden in the karnikara leaves,
+    And tendrils of the dhava or the fig;
+    Full of great glens it soars, where waters leap
+    And bright birds lave. This king of hills I sue
+    For tidings of my lord. O Mountain Lord,
+    Far-seen and celebrated hill! that cleav'st
+    The blue of the sky, refuge of living things,
+    Most noble eminence, I worship thee;
+    Thee I salute, who am a monarch's child,
+    The daughter and the consort of a prince,
+    The high-born Damayanti, unto whom
+    Bhima, Vidarbha's chief--that puissant lord--
+    Was sire, renowned o'er earth. Protector he
+    Of the four castes, performer of the rites
+    Called Rajasuya and the Aśwamedha--
+    A bounteous giver, first of rulers, known
+    For his large shining eyes; holy and just,
+    Fast to his word, unenvious, sweet of speech,
+    Gentle and valiant, dutiful and pure;
+    The guardian of Vidarbha, of his foes
+    The slayer. Know me, O Majestic Mount!
+    For that King's daughter, bending low to thee.
+    In Nishadha lived the father of my lord,
+    The Maharaja Virasena named,
+    Wealthy and great; whose son, of regal blood,
+    High-fortuned, powerful, and noble-souled,
+    Ruleth by right the realm paternal: he
+    Is Nala, terror of all enemies;
+    Dark Nala, praised-in-song; Nala the just,
+    The pure; deep-seen in scriptures, sweet of speech,
+    Drinker of Soma-juice, and worshipper
+    Of Agni; sacrificing, giving gifts;
+    First in the wars, a perfect, princely lord.
+    His wife am I, Great Mountain! and come here
+    Fortuneless, husbandless, and spiritless,
+    Everywhere seeking him, my best of men.
+    O Mount, whose doubled ridge stamps on the sky
+    Yon line, by fivescore splendid pinnacles
+    Indented! tell me, in this gloomy wood
+    Hast thou seen Nala? Nala, wise and bold,
+    Like a tusked elephant for might; long armed,
+    Indomitable, gallant, glorious, true;
+    Nala, Nishadha's chief--hast thou seen him?
+    O Mountain, why consolest thou me not,
+    Answering one word to sorrowful, distressed,
+    Lonely, lost Damayanti?"
+                            Then she cried:--
+    "But answer for thyself, Hero and Lord!
+    If thou art in the forest, show thyself!
+    Alas! when shall I hear that voice, as low,
+    As tender as the murmur of the rain
+    When great clouds gather; sweet as Amrit-drink?
+    Thy voice, once more, my Nala, calling to me
+    Full softly, 'Damayanti!'--dearest Prince,
+    That would be music soothing to these ears
+    As sound of sacred Veda; that would stay
+    My pains and comfort me, and bring me peace."
+      Thereafter, turning from the mount, she went
+    Northwards, and journeying on three nights and days
+    Came to a green incomparable grove
+    By holy men inhabited; a haunt
+    Placid as Paradise, whose indwellers
+    Like to Vaśistha, Bhrigu, Atri, were--
+    Those ancient saints. Restraining sense they lived,
+    Heedful in meats, subduing passion, pure,
+    Breathing within; their food water and herbs;
+    Ascetics; very holy; seeking still
+    The heavenward road; clad in the bark of trees
+    And skins--all gauds of earth being put by.
+    This hermitage, peopled by gentle ones,
+    Glad Damayanti spied, circled with herds
+    Of wild things grazing fearless, and with troops
+    Of monkey-folk o'erheard; and when she saw,
+    Her heart was lightened, for its quietness.
+    So drew she nigh--that lovely wanderer--
+    Bright-browed, long-tressed, large-hipped, full-bosomed, fair,
+    With pearly teeth and honeyed mouth, in gait
+    Right queenly still, having those long black eyes--
+    The wife of Virasena's son, the gem
+    Of all dear women, glory of her time;
+    Sad Damayanti entered their abode,
+    Those holy men saluting reverently,
+    With modest body bowed. Thus stood she there
+    And all the saints spake gently, "_Swâgatam_--
+    Welcome!" and gave the greetings which are meet;
+    And afterwards, "Repose thyself," they said;
+    "What wouldst thou have of us?" Then, with soft words
+    The slender-waisted spake: "Of all these here,
+    So worshipful in sacrifice and rite--
+    'Mid gentle beasts and birds--in tasks and toils
+    And blameless duties--is it well?" And they
+    Answered: "We thank you, noble lady, well.
+    Tell us, most beauteous one, thy name, and say
+    What thou desirest. Seeing thee so fair,
+    So worthy, yet so sorrowful, our minds
+    Are lost in wonder. Weep not. Comfort take.
+    Art thou the goddess of the wood? Art thou
+    The Mountain-Yakshi, or, belike, some sprite
+    Which lives under the river? Tell us true,
+    Gentle and faultless form!"
+                                 Whereat reply
+    Thus made she to the Rishis: "None of these
+    Am I, good saints. No goddess of the wood,
+    Nor yet a mountain nor a river sprite;
+    A woman ye behold, most only ones,
+    Whose moving story I will tell you true.
+    The Raja of Vidarbha is my sire,
+    Bhima his name, and--Best of Twice-born!--know
+    My husband is Nishadha's Chief, the famed,
+    The wise and valiant and victorious Prince,
+    The high and lordly Nala; of the gods
+    A steadfast worshipper; of Bráhmanas
+    The friend; his people's shield; honored and strong,
+    Truth-speaking, skilled in arms, sagacious, just;
+    Terrible to his foes, fortunate, lord
+    Of many conquered towns; a godlike man,
+    Princeliest of princes--Nala--one that hath
+    A countenance like the full moon's for light,
+    And eyes of lotus. This true offerer
+    Of sacrifices, this close votary
+    Of Vedas and Vedângas, in the war
+    Deadly to enemies, like sun and moon
+    For splendor--by some certain evil ones
+    Being defied to dice, my virtuous Prince
+    Was, by their wicked acts, of realm despoiled--
+    Wealth, jewels, all. I am his woful wife,
+    The Princess Damayanti. Seeking him
+    Through thickets have I roamed, over rough hills,
+    By crag and river and the reedy lake,
+    By marsh and waterfall and jungle-bush,
+    In quest of him--my lord, my warrior,
+    My hero--and still roam, uncomforted.
+    Worshipful brethren! say if he hath come--
+    Nishadha's Chief, my Nala, hitherward
+    Unto your pleasant homes--he, for whose sake
+    I wander in the dismal pathless wood
+    With bears and tigers haunted--terrible!
+    Ah! if I find him not, ere there be passed
+    Many more nights and days, peace will I win;
+    For death shall set my mournful spirit free.
+    What cause have I to live, lacking my Prince?
+    Why should I longer breathe, whose heart is dead
+    With sorrow for my lord?"
+                               To Bhima's child,
+    So in the wood bewailing, made reply
+    Those holy, truthful men: "Beautiful One!
+    The future is for thee; fair will it fall!
+    Our eyes, by long devotions opened, see--
+    Even now--thy lord; thou shalt behold him soon,
+    Nishadha's chief, the famous Nala, strong
+    In battle, loving justice. Yea, this Prince
+    Thou wilt regain, Bhima's sad daughter! freed
+    From troubles, purged of sin; and witness him--
+    With all his gems and glories--governing
+    Nishadha once again, invincible,
+    Joy of his friends and terror of his foes.
+    Yea, Noblest, thou shalt have thy love anew
+    In days to come."
+                      So speaking, from the sight
+    Of Damayanti, at that instant, passed
+    Hermits, with hermitage and holy fires,
+    Evanishing. In wonderment she stood,
+    Gazing bewildered. Then the Princess cried:--
+    "Was it in dream I saw them? Whence befell
+    This unto me? Where are the brethren gone,
+    The ring of huts, the pleasant stream that ran
+    With birds upon its crystal banks, the grove
+    Delightful, with its fruits and flowers?" Long while
+    Pondered and wondered Damayanti there,
+    Her bright smile fled, pale, strengthless, sorrowful;
+    Then to another region of the wood,
+    With sighs, and eyes welling great tears, she passed,
+    Lamenting; till a beauteous tree she spied--
+    The Asoka, best of trees. Fair rose it there
+    Beside the forest, glowing with the flame
+    Of golden and crimson blossoms, and its boughs
+    Full of sweet-singing birds.
+                                 "_Ahovat_--Look!"
+    She cried: "Ah, lovely tree, that wavest here
+    Thy crown of countless, shining, clustering blooms
+    As thou wert woodland king--Asoka tree,
+    Tree called 'the sorrow-ender,' heart's-ease tree!
+    Be what thy name saith--end my sorrow now,
+    Saying, ah, bright Asoka! thou hast seen
+    My Prince, my dauntless Nala; seen that lord
+    Whom Damayanti loves and his foes fear;
+    Seen great Nishadha's Chief, so dear to me,
+    His tender princely skin in rended cloth
+    Scantily clad. Hath he passed wandering
+    Under thy branches, grievously forlorn?
+    Answer, Asoka! 'Sorrow-ender,' speak!
+    That I go sorrowless, O heart's-ease, be
+    Truly heart-easing--ease my heart of pain."
+      Thus, wild with grief, she spake unto the tree,
+    Round and round walking, as to reverence it;
+    And then, unanswered, the sweet lady sped
+    Through wastes more dreadful, passing many a
+    Many still-gliding rillets, many a peak
+    Tree-clad, with beasts and birds of wondrous kind,
+    In dark ravines, and caves, and lonely glooms.
+    These things saw Damayanti, Bhima's child,
+    Seeking her lord.
+                      At last, on the long road,
+    She, whose soft smile was once so beautiful,
+    A caravan encountered. Merchantmen
+    With trampling horses, elephants, and wains,
+    Made passage of a river, running slow
+    In cool, clear waves. The quiet waters gleamed,
+    Shining and wide outspread, between the canes
+    Which bordered it, wherefrom echoed the cries
+    Of fish-hawks, curlews, and red chakravâks,
+    With sounds of leaping fish and water-snakes,
+    And tortoises, amid its shoals and flats
+    Sporting or feeding.
+                         When she spied that throng--
+    Heart-maddened with her anguish, weak and wan,
+    Half clad, bloodless and thin, her long black locks
+    Matted with dust--breathlessly breaks she in
+    Upon them--Nala's wife--so beauteous once,
+    So honored. Seeing her, some fled in fear;
+    Some gazed, speechless with wonder; some called out,
+    Mocking the piteous face by words of scorn;
+    But some (my King!) had pity of her woe,
+    And spake her fair, inquiring: "Who art thou?
+    And whence? And in this grove what seekest thou,
+    To come so wild? Thy mien astonisheth.
+    Art of our kind, or art thou something strange,
+    The spirit of the forest, or the hill,
+    Or river valley? Tell us true; then we
+    Will buy thy favor. If, indeed, thou art
+    Yakshini, Rakshasi, or she-creature
+    Haunting this region, be propitious! Send
+    Our caravan in safety on its path,
+    That we may quickly, by thy fortune, go
+    Homeward, and all fair chances fall to us."
+      Hereby accosted, softly gave response
+    That royal lady--weary for her lord--
+    Answering the leader of the caravan,
+    And those that gathered round, a marvelling throng
+    Of men and boys and elders: "Oh, believe
+    I am as you, of mortal birth, but born
+    A Raja's child, and made a Raja's wife.
+    Him seek I, Chieftain of Nishadha, named
+    Prince Nala--famous, glorious, first in war.
+    If ye know aught of him, my king, my joy,
+    My tiger of the jungle, my lost lord,
+    Quick, tell me, comfort me!"
+                               Then one who led
+    Their line--the merchant Śuchi--answering,
+    Spake to the peerless Princess: "Hear me now.
+    I am the captain of this caravan,
+    But nowhere any named by Nala's name
+    Have I, or these, beheld. Of evil beasts
+    The woods were full--cheetahs and bears and cats,
+    Tigers and elephants, bison and boar;
+    Those saw we in the brake on every side,
+    But nowhere nought of human shape, save thee.
+    May Manibhadra have us in his grace--
+    The Lord of Yakshas--as I tell thee truth!"
+      Then sadly spake she to the trader-chief
+    And to his band: "Whither wend ye, I pray?
+    Please ye, acquaint me where this Sârthâ[23] goes."
+      Replied the captain: "Unto Chedi's realm,
+    Where rules the just Subâhu, journey we,
+    To sell our merchandise, daughter of men!"
+      Thus by the chieftain of the band informed,
+    The peerless Princess journeyed with them, still
+    Seeking her lord. And at the first the way
+    Fared through another forest, dark and deep;
+    Afterwards came the traders to a pool
+    Broad, everywhere delightful, odorous
+    With cups of opened lotus, and its shores
+    Green with rich grass, and edged with garden trees--
+    A place of flowers and fruits and singing birds.
+    So cool and clear and peacefully it gleamed,
+    That men and cattle, weary with the march,
+    Clamored to pitch; and, on their chieftain's sign,
+    The pleasant hollow entered they, and camped--
+    All the long caravan--at sunset's hour.
+      There, in the quiet of the middle night,
+    Deep slumbered these; when, sudden on them fell
+    A herd of elephants, thirsting to drink,
+    In rut, the mada[24] oozing from their heads.
+    And when those great beasts spied the caravan,
+    And smelled the tame cows of their kind, they rushed
+    Headlong, and, mad with must, overwhelming all,
+    With onset vast and irresistible.
+    As when from some tall peak into the plain
+    Thunder and smoke and crash the rolling rocks,
+    Through splintered stems and thorns breaking their path,
+    So swept the herd to where, beside the pool,
+    Those sleepers lay; and trampled them to earth
+    Half-risen, helpless, shrieking in the dark,
+    "Haha! the elephants!" Of those unslain,
+    Some in the thickets sought a shelter; some,
+    Yet dazed with sleep, stood panic-stricken, mute;
+    Till here with tusks, and there with trunks, the beasts
+    Gored them, and battered them, and trod them flat
+    Under their monstrous feet. Then might be seen
+    Camels with camel-drivers, perishing,
+    And men flying in fear, who struck at men--
+    Terror and death and clamor everywhere:
+    While some, despairing, cast themselves to earth;
+    And some, in fleeing, fell and died; and some
+    Climbed to the tree-tops. Thus on every side
+    Scattered and ruined was that caravan--
+    Cattle and merchants--by the herd assailed.
+    So hideous was the tumult,-all three worlds
+    Seemed filled with fright; and one was heard to cry:--
+    "The fire is in the tents! fly for your lives!
+    Stay not!" And others cried: "Look where we leave
+    Our treasures trodden down; gather them! Halt!
+    Why run ye, losing ours and yours? Nay, stay!
+    Stand ye, and we will stand!" And then to these
+    One voice cried, "Stand!" another, "Fly! we die!"
+    Answered by those again who shouted, "Stand!
+    Think what we lose, O cowards!"
+                                    While this rout
+    Raged, amid dying groans and sounds of fear,
+    The Princess, waking startled, terror-struck,
+    Saw such a sight as might the boldest daunt--
+    Such scene as those great lovely lotus-eyes
+    Ne'er gazed upon before. Sick with new dread--
+    Her breath suspended 'twixt her lips--she rose
+    And heard, of those surviving, some one moan
+    Amidst his fellows: "From whose evil act
+    Is this the fruit? Hath worship not been paid
+    To mighty Manibhadra? Gave we not
+    The reverence due to Vaishravan, that King
+    Of all the Yakshas? Was not offering made
+    At outset to the spirits which impede?
+    Is this the evil portent of the birds?
+    Were the stars adverse? or what else hath fall'n?"
+      And others said, wailing for friends and goods:--
+    "Who was that woman, with mad eyes, that came
+    Into our camp, ill-favored, hardly cast
+    In mortal mould? By her, be sure, was wrought
+    This direful sorcery. Demon or witch,
+    Yakshî or Rakshasî, or gliding ghost,
+    Or something frightful, was she. Hers this deed
+    Of midnight murders; doubt there can be none.
+    Ah, if we could espy that hateful one,
+    The ruin of our march, the woe-maker,
+    With stones, clods, canes, or clubs, nay, with clenched fists,
+    We'd strike her dead, the murderess of our band!"
+      Trembling the Princess heard those angry words;
+    And--saddened, maddened, shamed--breathless she fled
+    Into the thicket, doubtful if such sin
+    Might not be hers, and with fresh dread distressed.
+    "Aho!" she weeps, "pitiless grows the wrath
+    Of Fate against me. Not one gleam of good
+    Arriveth. Of what fault is this the fruit?
+    I cannot call to mind a wrong I wrought
+    To any--even a little thing--in act
+    Or thought or word; whence then hath come this curse?
+    Belike from ill deeds done in by-gone lives
+    It hath befall'n, and what I suffer now
+    Is payment of old evils undischarged.
+    Grievous the doom--my palace lost, my lord,
+    My children, kindred; I am torn away
+    From home and love and all, to roam accurst
+    In this plague-haunted waste!"
+                                   When broke the day,
+    Those which escaped alive, with grievous cries
+    Departed, mourning for their fellows slain.
+    Each one a kinsman or a friend laments--
+    Father or brother, son, or comrade dear.
+      And Damayanti, hearing, weeps anew,
+    Saying: "What dreadful sin was that I wrought
+    Long, long ago, which, when I chance to meet
+    These wayfarers in the unpeopled wood,
+    Dooms them to perish by the elephants,
+    In my dark destiny enwrapped? No doubt
+    More and more sorrow I shall bear, or bring,
+    For none dies ere his time; this is the lore
+    Of ancient sages; this is why--being glad
+    If I could die--I was not trampled down
+    Under the elephants. There haps to man
+    Nothing unless by destiny. Why else,
+    Seeing that never have I wrought one wrong,
+    From childhood's hours, in thought or word or deed,
+    Hath this woe chanced? May be--meseems it may!--
+    The mighty gods, at my Swayamvara
+    Slighted by me for Nala's dearest sake,
+    Are wroth, and by their dread displeasure thus
+    To loss and loneliness I am consigned!"
+      So--woe-begone and wild--this noble wife,
+    Deserted Damayanti, poured her griefs:
+    And afterwards, with certain Bráhmanas
+    Saved from the rout--good men who knew the Veds--
+    Sadly her road she finished, like the moon
+    That goeth clouded in the month of rain.
+    Thus travelling long, the Princess drew at last
+    Nigh to a city, at the evening hour.
+    The dwelling-place it was of Chedi's Chief,
+    The just Subâhu. Through its lofty gates
+    Painfully passed she, clad in half a cloth;
+    And as she entered--sorrow-stricken, wan,
+    Foot-weary, stained with mire, with unsmoothed hair,
+    Unbathed, and eyes of madness--those who saw,
+    Wondered and stared, and watched her as she toiled
+    Down the long city street. The children break
+    From play, and--boys with girls--followed her steps,
+    So that she came--a crowd encompassing--
+    Unto the King's door. On the palace roof
+    The mother of the Maharaja paced,
+    And marked the throng, and that sad wayfarer.
+    Then to her nurse spake the queen-mother this:--
+    "Go thou, and bring yon woman unto me!
+    The people trouble her; mournful she walks,
+    Seeming unfriended, yet bears she a mien
+    Made for a king's abode, and, all so wild,
+    Still are her wistful eyes like the great eyes
+    Of Lakshmi's self." So downwards went the nurse,
+    Bidding the rude folk back; and to the roof
+    Of the great palace led that wandering one--
+    Desolate Damayanti--whom the Queen
+    Courteous besought: "Though thou art wan of face,
+    Thou wear'st a noble air, which through thy griefs
+    Shineth as lightning doth behind its cloud.
+    Tell me thy name, and whose thou art, and whence.
+    No lowborn form is thine, albeit thou com'st
+    Wearing no ornaments; and all alone
+    Wanderest--not fearing men--by some spell safe."
+      Hearing which words, the child of Bhima spake
+    Gratefully this: "A woful woman I,
+    And woful wife, but faithful to my vows;
+    High-born, but like a servant, like a slave,
+    Lodging where it may hap, and finding food
+    From the wild roots and fruits wherever night
+    Brings me my resting-place. Yet is my lord
+    A prince noble and great, with countless gifts
+    Endued; and him I followed faithfully
+    As 't were his shadow, till hard fate decreed
+    That he should fall into the rage of dice:--
+    And, worsted in that play, into the wood
+    He fled, clad in one cloth, frenzied and lone.
+    And I his steps attended in the wood,
+    Comforting him, my husband. But it chanced,
+    Hungry and desperate, he lost his cloth;
+    And I--one garment bearing--followed still
+    My unclad lord, despairing, reasonless,
+    Through many a weary night not slumbering.
+    But when, at length, a little while I slept,
+    My Prince abandoned me, rending away
+    Half of my garment, leaving there his wife,
+    Who never wrought him wrong. That lord I seek
+    By day and night, with heart and soul on fire--
+    Seek, but still find not; though he is to me
+    Brighter than light which gleams from lotus-cups,
+    Divine as are the immortals, dear as breath,
+    The master of my life, my pride, my joy!"
+      Whom, grieving so, her sweet eyes blind with tears,
+    Gently addressed Subâhu's mother--sad
+    To hear as she to tell. "Stay with us here,
+    Thou ill-starred lady. Great the friendliness
+    I have for thee. The people of our court
+    Shall thy lost husband seek; or, it may be,
+    He too will wander hither of himself
+    By devious paths: yea, mournful one, thy lord
+    Thou wilt regain, abiding with us here."
+      And Damayanti, bowing, answered thus
+    Unto the Queen: "I will abide with thee,
+    O mother of illustrious sons, if so
+    They feed me not on orts, nor seek from me
+    To wash the feet of comers, nor that I
+    Be set to speak with any stranger-men
+    Before the curtain; and, if any man
+    Sue me, that he be punished; and if twice,
+    Then that he die, guilty of infamy.
+    This is my earnest prayer; but Bráhmanas
+    Who seek my husband, or bear news of him,
+    Such will I speak with. If it may be thus,
+    Gladly would I abide, great lady, here;
+    If otherwise, it is not on my mind
+    To sojourn longer."
+                            Very tenderly
+    Quoth the queen-mother: "All that thou dost ask
+    We will ordain. The gods reward thy love,
+    Which hath such honor!" Comforting her so,
+    To the king's daughter, young Sunandâ, spake
+    The Maharajni: "See, Sunandâ, here
+    Clad as a handmaid, but in form divine,
+    One of thy years, gentle and true. Be friends;
+    Take and give pleasure in glad company
+    Each with the other, keeping happy hearts."
+      So went Sunandâ joyous to her house,
+    Leading with loving hand the Princess in,
+    The maidens of the court accompanying.
+
+
+Part II.
+
+    Not long (O Maharaja!) was Nala fled
+    From Damayanti, when, in midmost gloom
+    Of the thick wood a flaming fire he spied,
+    And from the fire's heart heard proceed a voice
+    Of one imperilled, crying many times:--
+    "Haste hither, Punyashloka, Nala, haste!"
+    "Fear not," the Prince replied; "I come!" and sprang
+    Across the burning bushes, where he saw
+    A snake--a king of serpents--lying curled
+    In a great ring, which reared its dancing crest
+    Saluting, and in human accents spoke:--
+    "Maharaja, kindly lord, I am the snake
+    Karkôtaka; by me was once betrayed
+    The famous Rishi Narada; his wrath
+    Doomed me, thou Chief of men! to bear this spell--
+    'Coil thy false folds,' said he, 'forever here,
+    A serpent, motionless upon this spot,
+    Till it shall chance that Nala passeth by
+    And bears thee hence; then only from my curse
+    Canst thou be freed,' And prisoned by that curse
+    I have no power to stir, though the wood burns;
+    Nay, not a coil! good fellowship I'll show
+    If thou wilt succor me. I'll be to thee
+    A faithful friend, as no snake ever yet.
+    Lift me, and quickly from the flames bear forth:
+    For thee I shall grow light." Thereat shrank up
+    That monstrous reptile to a finger's length;
+    And grasping this, unto a place secure
+    From burning, Nala bore it, where the air
+    Breathed freshly, and the fire's black path was stayed.
+      Then made the Prince to lay the serpent down,
+    But yet again it speaks: "Nishadha's Lord,
+    Grasp me and slowly go, counting thy steps;
+    For, Raja, thou shalt have good fortune hence."
+    So Nala slowly went, counting his steps;
+    And when the tenth pace came, the serpent turned
+    And bit the Prince. No sooner pierced that tooth
+    Than all the likeness of Nishadha changed;
+    And, wonder-struck, he gazed upon himself;
+    While from the dust he saw the snake arise
+    A man, and, speaking as Karkôtaka,
+    Comfort him thus:--
+                        "Thou art by me transformed
+    That no man know thee: and that evil one
+    (Possessing, and undoing thee, with grief)
+    Shall so within thee by my venom smart,
+    Shall through thy blood so ache, that--till he quit--
+    He shall endure the woe he did impart.
+    Thus by my potent spell, most noble Prince!
+    (Who sufferest too long) thou wilt be freed
+    From him that haunts thee. Fear no more the wood,
+    Thou tiger of all princes! fear thou not
+    Horned nor fanged beasts, nor any enemies,
+    Though they be Bráhmans! safe thou goest now,
+    Guarded from grief and hurt--Chieftain of men!
+    By this kind poison. In the fields of war
+    Henceforth the victory always falls to thee;
+    Go joyous, therefore, Prince; give thyself forth
+    For 'Vahûka, the charioteer:' repair
+    To Rituparna's city, who is skilled
+    In play, and dwells in fair Ayodhyâ.
+    Wend thou, Nishadha! thither; he will teach
+    Great subtlety in numbers unto thee,
+    Exchanging this for thine own matchless gift
+    Of taming horses. From the lordly line
+    Descended of Ikshvaku, glad and kind
+    The King will be; and thou, learning of him
+    His deepest act of dice, wilt win back all,
+    And clasp again thy Princess. Therefore waste
+    No thought on woes. I tell thee truth! thy realm
+    Thou shalt regain; and when the time is come
+    That thou hast need to put thine own form on,
+    Call me to mind, O Prince, and tie this cloth
+    Around thy body. Wearing it, thy shape
+    Thou shalt resume."
+                       Therewith the serpent gave
+    A magic twofold robe, not wove on earth,
+    Which (O thou son of Kuru!) Nala took;
+    And so the snake, transformed, vanished away.
+      The great snake being gone, Nishadha's Chief
+    Set forth, and on the tenth day entered in
+    At Rituparna's town; there he besought
+    The presence of the Raja, and spake thus:--
+    "I am the chariot-driver, Vahûka.
+    There is not on this earth another man
+    Hath gifts like mine to tame and guide the steed;
+    Moreover, thou mayest use me in nice needs
+    And dangerous, where kings lack faithful hearts.
+    Specially skilful I am in dressing meats;
+    And whatso other duties may befall,
+    Though they be weighty, I shall execute,
+    If, Rituparna, thou wilt take me in."
+      "I take thee," quoth the King. "Dwell here with me.
+    Such service as thou knowest, render us.
+    'Tis, Vahûka, forever in my heart
+    To have my steeds the swiftest; be thy task
+    To train me horses like the wind for speed;
+    My charioteer I make thee, and thy wage
+    Ten thousand gold suvernas. Thou wilt have
+    For fellows, Varshneya and Jivala;
+    With those abiding, lodge thou happy here."
+      So entertained and honored of the King,
+    In Rituparna's city Nala dwelled,
+    Lodging with Varshneya and Jivala.
+      There sojourned he (my Raja!), thinking still
+    Of sweet Vidarbha's Princess day by day;
+    And sunset after sunset one sad strain
+    He sang: "Where resteth she that roamed the wood
+    Hungry and parched and worn, but always true?
+    Doth she remember yet her faultful lord?
+    Ah, who is near her now?" So it befell
+    Jivala heard him ever sighing thus,
+    And questioned: "Who is she thou dost lament?
+    Say, Vahûka! fain would I know her name.
+    Long life be thine; but tell me who he is,
+    The faultful man that was the lady's lord."
+      And Nala answered him: "There lives a man,
+    Evil and rash, that had a noble wife.
+    False to his word he was; and thus it fell
+    That somewhere, for some reason (ask not me!),
+    He quitted her, this rash one. And--so wrenched
+    Apart from hers--his spirit, bad and sad,
+    Muses and moans, with grief's slow fire consumed
+    Night-time and day-time. Thence it is he sings
+    At every sunset this unchanging verse,
+    An outcast on the earth, by hazard led
+    Hither and thither. Such a man thou seest
+    Woful, unworthy, holding in his heart
+    Always that sin. I was that lady's lord,
+    Whom she did follow through the dreadful wood,
+    Living by me abandoned, at this hour;
+    If yet, in truth, she lives--youthful, alone,
+    Unpractised in the ways, not meriting
+    Fortunes so hard. Ah, if indeed she lives,
+    Who roamed the thick and boundless forest, full
+    Of prowling beasts--roamed it, my Jivala,
+    Unguarded by her guilty lord--forsook,
+    Betrayed, good friend!"
+                           Thus did Nishadha grieve,
+    Calling sweet Damayanti to his mind.
+    So tarried he within the Raja's house,
+    And no man knew his place of sojourning.
+      While, stripped of state, the Prince and Princess thus
+    Were sunk to servitude, Bhima made quest,
+    Sending his Bráhmans forth to search for them
+    With straight commands, and for their road-money
+    Liberal store. "Seek everywhere," said he
+    Unto the twice-born, "Nala--everywhere
+    My daughter Damayanti. Whoso comes
+    Successful in this quest, discovering her--
+    With lost Nishadha's Lord--and bringing them,
+    A thousand cows to that man will I give,
+    And village-lands whence shall be revenue
+    As great as from a city. If so be
+    Ye cannot bring me Nala and my child,
+    To him that learns their refuge I will give
+    The thousand cows."
+                       Thereby rejoiced, they went,
+    Those Bráhmans, hither and thither, up and down,
+    Into all regions, rajaships, and towns,
+    Seeking Nishadha's Chieftain, and his wife.
+    But Nala nowhere found they; nowhere found
+    Sweet Damayanti, Bhima's beauteous child--
+      Until, straying to pleasant Chedipur,
+    One day a twice-born came, Sudêva named,
+    And entered it; and, spying round about
+    (Upon a feast-day by the King proclaimed),
+    He saw forth-passing through the palace gate
+    A woman--Bhima's daughter--side by side
+    With young Sunandâ. Little praise had now
+    That beauty which in old days shone so bright;
+    Marred with much grief it was, like sunlight dimmed
+    By fold on fold of wreathed and creeping mists.
+    But when Sudêva marked the great dark eyes--
+    Lustreless though they were, and she so worn,
+    So listless--"Lo, the Princess!" whispered he;--
+    "'Tis the King's daughter," quoth he to himself;
+    And thus mused on:--
+                        "Yea! as I used to see,
+    'Tis she! no other woman hath such grace!
+    My task is done; I gaze on that one form,
+    Which is like Lakshmi's, whom all worlds adore.
+    I see the bosoms, rounded, dark, and smooth,
+    As they were sister-moons; the soft moon-face
+    Which with its queenly light makes all things bright
+    Where it doth gleam; the large deep lotus-eyes,
+    That, like to Rati's own, the Queen of Love,
+    Beam, each a lovelit star, filling the worlds
+    With longing. Ah, fair lotus-flower, plucked up
+    By Fate's hard grasp from far Vidarbha's pool,
+    How is thy cup muddied and slimed to-day!
+    Ah, moon, how is thy night like to the eclipse
+    When Rahu swallows up the silver round!
+    Ah, tearless eyes, reddened with weeping him,
+    How are ye like to gentle streams run dry!
+    Ah, lake of lilies, where grief's elephant
+    Hath swung his trunk, and turned the crystal black,
+    And scattered all the blue and crimson cups,
+    And frightened off the birds! Ah, lily-cup,
+    Tender, and delicately leaved, and reared
+    To blossom in a palace built of gems,
+    How dost thou wither here, wrenched by the root,
+    Sun-scorched and faded! Noblest, loveliest, best!--
+    Who bear'st no gems, yet so becomest them--
+    How like the new moon's silver horn thou art,
+    When envious black clouds blot it! Lost for thee
+    Are love, home, children, friends, and kinsmen; lost
+    All joy of that fair body thou dost wear
+    Only that it may last to find thy lord.
+    Truly a woman's ornament is this:--
+    The husband is her jewel; lacking him
+    She hath none, though she shines with priceless pearls;
+    Piteous must be her state! And, torn from her,
+    Doth Nala cling to life; or, day by day,
+    Waste with long yearning? Oh, as I behold
+    Those black locks, and those eyes--dark and long-shaped
+    As are the hundred-petalled lotus-leaves--
+    And watch her joyless who deserves all joy,
+    My heart is sore! When will she overpass
+    The river of this sorrow, and come safe
+    Unto its farther shore? When will she meet
+    Her lord, as moon and moon-star in the sky
+    Mingle? For, as I think, in winning her,
+    Nala would win his happy days again,
+    And--albeit banished now--have back his lands.
+    Alike in years and graces, and alike
+    In lordly race these were: no bride could seem
+    Worthy Nishadha, if it were not she;
+    Nor husband worthy of Vidarbha's Pride,
+    Save it were Nala. It is meet I bring
+    Comfort forthwith to yon despairing one,
+    The consort of the just and noble Prince,
+    For whom I see her heart-sick. I will go
+    And speak good tidings to this moon-faced Queen,
+    Who once knew nought of sorrows, but to-day
+    Stands yonder, plunged heart-deep in woful thought."
+      So, all those signs and marks considering
+    Which stamped her Bhima's child, Sudêva drew
+    Nearer, and said: "Vidarbhi, Nala's wife,
+    I am the Bráhmana Sudêva, friend
+    Unto my lord, thy brother, and I come
+    By royal Bhima's mandate, seeking thee.
+    That Maharaja, thy father, dwells in health;
+    Thy mother and thy house are well; and well--
+    With promise of long years--thy little ones,
+    Sister and brother. Yet, for thy sake, Queen,
+    Thy kindred sit as men with spirit gone;
+    In search of thee a hundred twice-born rove
+    Over all lands."
+                     But (O King Yudhisthir!)
+    Hardly one word she heard before she broke
+    With question after question on the man,
+    Asking of this dear friend and that and this;
+    All mingled with quick tears, and tender sighs,
+    And hungry gazing on her brother's friend,
+    Sudêva--best of Bráhmanas--come there.
+    Which soon Sunandâ marked, watching them speak
+    Apart, and Damayanti all in tears.
+    Then came she to her mother, saying: "See,
+    The handmaid thou didst give me talks below
+    With one who is a Bráhman, all her words
+    Watered with weeping; if thou wilt, demand
+    What this man knows."
+                         Therewith swept forth amazed
+    The mother of the Raja, and beheld
+    How Nala's wife spake with the Bráhmana.
+    Whom straight she bade them summon; and, being brought,
+    In this wise questioned: "Knowest thou whose wife,
+    Whose daughter, this one is; and how she left
+    Her kin; and wherefore, being heavenly-eyed
+    And noble-mannered, she hath wandered here?
+    I am full fain to hear this; tell me all,
+    No whit withholding; answer faithfully--
+    Who is our slave-girl with the goddess gait?"
+      The Bráhmana Sudêva, so addressed,
+    Seating himself at ease, unto the Queen
+    Told Damayanti's story, how all fell.
+      Sudêva said: "There reigns in majesty
+    King Bhima at Vidarbha; and of him
+    The Princess Damayanti here is child;
+    And Virasena's son, Nala, is Lord
+    Over Nishadha, praised-in-song and wise;
+    And of that Prince this lady is the wife.
+    In play his brother worsted Nala--stripped
+    Of lands and wealth the Prince; who fled his realm,
+    Wandering with Damayanti--where, none knew.
+    In quest of Damayanti we have roamed
+    The earth's face o'er, until I found her here
+    In thy son's house, the King's--the very same,
+    Since like to her for grace no woman lives
+    Of all fair women. Where her eyebrows meet
+    A pretty mole, born with her, should be seen
+    A little lotus-bud--not visible
+    By reason of the dust of toil which clouds
+    Her face and veils its moon-like beauty--that
+    The wondrous Maker on the rare work stamped
+    To be His Mark. But as the waxing moon
+    Goes thin and darkling for awhile, then rounds
+    The crescent's rims with splendors, so this Queen
+    Hath lost not queenliness. Being now obscured,
+    Soiled with the grime of chores, unbeautified,
+    She shows true gold. The fire which trieth gold
+    Denoteth less itself by instant heat
+    Than Damayanti by her goodlihood.
+    As first sight knew I her. She bears that mole."
+      Whilst yet Sudêva spake (O King of men!),
+    Sunandâ from the slave's front washed away
+    The gathered dust, and forth that mark appeared
+    'Twixt Damayanti's brows, as when clouds break,
+    And in the sky the moon, the night-maker,
+    Glitters to view. Seeing the spot awhile,
+    Sunandâ and the mother of the King
+    Gazed voiceless; then they clasped her neck and wept
+    Rejoicing, till the Queen, staying her tears,
+    Exclaimed: "My sister's daughter, dear! thou art,
+    By this same mark. Thy mother and myself
+    Were sisters by one father--he that rules
+    Daśarna, King Sudâman. She was given
+    To Bhima, and to Virabahu I.
+    Once at Daśarna, in my father's house,
+    I saw thee, newly born. Thy race and mine,
+    Princess, are one: henceforward, therefore, here
+    As I am, Damayanti, shalt thou be."
+      With gladdened heart did Damayanti bend
+    Before her mother's sister, answering thus:--
+    "Peaceful and thankful dwelled I here with thee,
+    Being unknown, my every need supplied,
+    My life and honor by thy succor safe,
+    Yet, Maharajni, even than this dear home
+    One would be dearer: 'tis so many days
+    Since we were parted. Suffer me to go
+    Where those my tender little ones were led;
+    So long--poor babes!--of me and of their sire
+    Bereft. If, lady, thou dost think to show
+    Kindness to me, this is my wish: to wend
+    Unto Vidarbha swiftly; wilt thou bid
+    They bear me thither?"
+                           Was no sooner heard
+    That fond desire, than the queen-mother gave
+    Willing command; and soon an ample troop,
+    The King consenting, gathered for her guard.
+    So was she sent upon a palanquin,
+    With soldiers, pole-bearers, and meat and drink,
+    And garments as befitted--happier--home.
+      Thus to Vidarbha came its Pride again,
+    By no long road; and joyously her kin
+    Brought the sweet Princess in, and welcomed her.
+    In peace and safety all her house she found;
+    Her children well;--father and mother, friends.
+    The gods she worshipped, and to Bráhmanas
+    Due reverence made, and whatso else was meet
+    That Damayanti did, regal in all.
+    To wise Sudêva fell the thousand cows
+    By Bhima granted, with the village-lands,
+    And goodly gifts beside.
+                             But when there passed
+    One night of rest within the palace-walls,
+    The wistful Princess to her mother said:--
+    "If thou wouldst have me live, I tell thee true,
+    Dear mother, it must be by bringing back
+    My Nala, my own lord; and only so."
+      When this she spake, right sorrowful became
+    The Rani, weeping silently, nor gave
+    One word of answer; and the palace-girls,
+    Seeing this grief, sat round them, weeping too,
+    And crying: "Haha! where is gone her lord?"
+    And loud the lamentation was of all.
+      Afterwards to the Maharaja his Queen
+    Told what was said: "Lord! all uncomforted
+    Thy daughter Damayanti weeps and grieves,
+    Lacking her husband. Even to me she spake
+    Before our damsels, laying shame aside:--
+    'Find Nala; let the people of the court
+    Strive day and night to learn where Nala is.'"
+
+    Then Bhima, hearing, called his Bráhmanas
+    Patient and wise, and issued hest to go
+    Into all regions, seeking for the Prince.
+    But first, by mandate of the Maharaja,
+    To Damayanti all those twice-born came,
+    Saying: "Now we depart!" Then Bhima's child
+    Gave ordinance: "To whatsoever lands
+    Ye wend, say this--wherever gather men,
+    Say this--in every place these verses speak:--
+
+      Whither art thou departed, cruel lover,
+        Who stole the half of thy belovèd's cloth,
+      And left her to awaken, and discover
+        The wrong thou wroughtest to the love of both?
+      She, as thou didst command, a sad watch keepeth,
+        With woful heart wearing the rended dress.
+      Prince, hear her cry who thus forever weepeth;
+        Be mindful, hero; comfort her distress!
+
+    And, furthermore," the Princess said, "since fire
+    Leaps into flame when the wind fans the spark,
+    Be this too spoken, that his heart may burn:--
+
+      By every husband nourished and protected
+        Should every wife be. Think upon the wood!
+      Why these thy duties hast thou so neglected,
+        Prince, that was called noble and true and good?
+      Art then become compassionate no longer,
+        Shunning, perchance, my fortune's broken way?
+      Ah, husband, love is most! let love be stronger;
+        _Ahimsa paro dharma_,[25] thou didst say.
+
+    These verses while ye speak," quoth the Princess,
+    "Should any man make answer, note him well
+    In any place; and who he is, and where
+    He dwells. And if one listens to these words
+    Intently, and shall so reply to them,
+    Good Bráhmans, hold ye fast his speech, and bring,
+    Breath by breath, all of it unto me here;
+    But so that he shall know not whence ye speak,
+    If ye go back. Do this unweariedly;
+    And if one answer--be he high or low,
+    Wealthy or poor--learn all he was and is,
+    And what he would."
+                        Hereby enjoined, they went,
+    Those twice-born, into all the lands to seek
+    Prince Nala in his loneliness. Through towns,
+    Cities and villages, hamlets and camps,
+    By shepherds' huts and hermits' caves, they passed,
+    Searching for Nala; yet they found him not;
+    Albeit in every region (O my king!)
+    The words of Damayanti, as she taught,
+    Spake they again in hearing of all men.
+      Suddenly--after many days--there came
+    A Bráhman back, Parnâda he was called,
+    Who unto Bhima's child in this wise spake:--
+    "O Damayanti, seeking Nala still,
+    Ayodhyâ's streets I entered, where I saw
+    The Maharaja; he--noble-minded one!--
+    Heard me thy verses say, as thou hadst said;
+    Great Rituparna heard those very words,
+    Excellent Princess; but he answered nought;
+    And no man answered, out of all the throng
+    Ofttimes addressed. But when I had my leave
+    And was withdrawn, a man accosted me
+    Privately--one of Rituparna's train,
+    Vahûka named, the Raja's charioteer
+    (Something misshapen, with a shrunken arm,
+    But skilled in driving, very dexterous
+    In cookery and sweetmeats). He--with groans,
+    And tears which rolled and rolled--asked of my health,
+    And then these verses spake full wistfully:--
+
+      'Even when their loss is largest, noble ladies
+        Keep the true treasure of their hearts unspent,
+      Attaining heaven through faith, which undismayed is
+        By wrong, unaltered by abandonment;
+      Such an one guards with virtue's golden shield
+        Her name from harm; pious and pure and tender;
+      And, though her lord forsook her, will not yield
+        To wrath, even against that vile offender--
+      Even against the ruined, rash, ungrateful,
+        Faithless, fond Prince from whom the birds did steal
+      His only cloth, whom now a penance fateful
+        Dooms to sad days, that dark-eyed will not feel
+      Anger; for if she saw him she should see
+        A man consumed with grief and loss and shame;
+      Ill or well lodged, ever in misery,
+        Her unthroned lord, a slave without a name.'
+
+    Such words I heard him speak," Parnâda said,
+    "And, hastening thence, I tell them to thee, here;
+    Thou knowest; thou wilt judge; make the King know."
+    But Damayanti listened, with great eyes
+    Welling quick tears, while thus Parnâda spake,
+    And afterwards crept secretly and said
+    Unto her mother: "Breathe no word hereof,
+    Dear mother, to the King, but let me speak
+    With wise Sudêva in thy presence here;
+    Nothing should Bhima know of what I plan,
+    But, if thou lovest me, by thee and me
+    This shall be wrought. As I was safely led
+    By good Sudêva home, so let him go--
+    With not less happy fortune--to bring back,
+    Ere many days, my Nala; let him seek
+    Ayodhyâ, mother dear, and fetch my Prince!"
+      But first Parnâda, resting from his road--
+    That best of twice-borns--did the Princess thank
+    With honorable words and gifts: "If home
+    My Nala cometh, Bráhman!" so she spake,
+    "Great guerdon will I give. Thou hast well done
+    For me herein--- better than any man;
+    Helping me find again my wandered lord."
+    To which fair words made soft reply, and prayers
+    For "peace and fortune," that high-minded one,
+    And so passed home, his service being wrought.
+      Next to Sudêva spake the sad Princess
+    This (O my King!), her mother standing by:--
+    "Good Bráhman, to Ayodhyâ's city go.
+    Say in the ears of Raja Rituparna,
+    As though thou cam'st a simple traveller,
+    'The daughter of King Bhima once again
+    Maketh to hold her high Swayamvara.
+    The kings and princes from all lands repair
+    Thither; the time draws nigh; to-morrow's dawn
+    Shall bring the day. If thou wouldst be of it,
+    Speed quickly, conquering King! at sunsetting
+    Another lord she chooseth for herself;
+    Since whether Nala liveth or is dead,
+    None knoweth.'"
+                    These the words which he should say;
+    And, learning them, he sped, and thither came--
+    That Bráhmana Sudêva--and he spake
+    To Maharaja Rituparna so.
+      Now when the Raja Rituparna heard
+    Sudêva's words, quoth he to Vahûka
+    Full pleasantly: "Much mind I have to go
+    Where Damayanti holds Swayamvara,
+    If to Vidarbha, in a single day,
+    Thou deemest we might drive, my charioteer!"
+      Of Nala, by his Raja thus addressed,
+    Torn was the heart with anguish; for he thought:--
+    "Can Damayanti purpose this? Could grief
+    So change her? Is it not some fine device
+    For my sake schemed? Or doth my Princess seek,
+    All holy as she was, this guilty joy,
+    Being so wronged of me, her rash weak lord?
+    Frail is a woman's heart, and my fault great!
+    Thus might she do it, being far from home,
+    Bereft of friends, desolate with long woes
+    Of love for me--my slender-waisted one!
+    Yet no, no, no! she would not--she that is
+    My children's mother! Be it false or true,
+    Best shall I know in going; therefore now
+    The will of Rituparna must I serve."
+      Thus pondering in his mind, the troubled Prince
+    With joined palms meekly to his master said:--
+    "I shall thy hest accomplish! I can drive
+    In one day, Raja, to Vidarbha's gates."
+      Then in the royal stables--steed by steed,
+    Stallions and mares, Vahûka scanned them all,
+    By Rituparna prayed quickly to choose.
+    Slowly he picked four coursers, under-fleshed,
+    But big of bone and sinew; fetlocked well
+    For journeying; high-bred, heavy-framed; of blood
+    To match the best, yet gentle; blemish-free;
+    Broad in the jaw, with scarlet nostrils spread;
+    Bearing the _Avarthas_, the ten true marks--
+    Reared on the banks of Indus, swift as wind.
+    Which, when the Raja looked upon, he cried,
+    Half-wrathful: "What thing thinkest thou to do?
+    Wilt thou betray me? How should sorry beasts,
+    Lean-ribbed and ragged, take us all that way,
+    The long road we must swiftly travel hence?"
+      Vahûka answered: "See on all these four
+    The ten sure marks: one curl upon each crest,
+    Two on the cheeks, two upon either flank,
+    Two on the breast, and on each crupper one.[26]
+    These to Vidarbha--doubt it not--will go;
+    Yet, Raja, if thou wilt have others, speak;
+    And I shall yoke them."
+                            Rituparna said:--
+    "I know thou hast deep skill in stable-craft;
+    Yoke therefore such four coursers as thou wilt,
+    But quickly!"
+                  Thus those horses, two by two,
+    High-mettled, spare, and strong, Prince Nala put
+    Under the bars; and when the car was hitched,
+    And eagerly the Raja made to mount,
+    At sign the coursers bent their knees, and lay
+    Along the earth. Then Nala (O my King!),
+    With kindly voice cheering the gaunt bright steeds,
+    Loosed them, and grasped the reins, and bade ascend
+    Varshneya: so he started, headlong, forth.
+      At cry of Vahûka the four steeds sprung
+    Into the air, as they would fly with him;
+    And when the Raja felt them, fleet as wind,
+    Whirling along, mute sat he and amazed;
+    And much Varshneya mused to hear and see
+    The thundering of those wheels; the fiery four
+    So lightly held; Vahûka's matchless art.
+    "Is Mâtali, who driveth Indra's car,
+    Our charioteer? for all the marks of him
+    Are here! or Sâlihotra can this be,
+    The god of horses, knowing all their ways,
+    Who here in mortal form his greatness hides?
+    Or is it--can it be--Nala the Prince,
+    Nala the steed-tamer?" Thus pondered he:--
+    "Whatever Nala knew this one doth know.
+    Alike the mastery seems of both; alike
+    I judge their years. If this man be not he,
+    Two Nalas are there in the world for skill.
+    They say there wander mighty powers on earth
+    In strange disguises, who, divinely sprung,
+    Veil themselves from us under human mould;
+    Bewilderment it brings me, this his shape
+    Misshappen--from conclusion that alone
+    Withholds me; yet I wist not what to think,
+    In age and manner like--and so unlike
+    In form! Else Vahûka I must have deemed
+    Nala, with Nala's gifts."
+                              So in his heart,
+    Varshneya, watching, wondered--being himself
+    The second charioteer. But Rituparna
+    Sat joyous with the speed, delightedly
+    Marking the driving of the Prince: the eyes
+    Attent; the hand so firm upon the reins;
+    The skill so quiet, wise, and masterful;
+    Great joy the Maharaja had to see.
+      By stream and mountain, woodland-path and pool,
+    Swiftly, like birds that skim in air, they sped;
+    Till, as the chariot plunged, the Raja saw
+    His shoulder-mantle falling to the ground;
+    And--loath to lose the robe--albeit so pressed,
+    To Nala cried he, "Let me take it up;
+    Check the swift horses, wondrous charioteer;
+    And bid Varshneya light, and fetch my cloth,"
+    But Nala answered: "Far it lies behind;
+    A yojana already we have passed;
+    We cannot turn again to pick it up."
+      A little onward Riturparna saw
+    Within the wood a tall Myrobolan
+    Heavy with fruit; hereat, eager he cried:--
+    "Now, Vahûka, my skill thou mayest behold
+    In the Arithmic. All arts no man knows;
+    Each hath his wisdom, but in one man's wit
+    Is perfect gift of one thing, and not more.
+    From yonder tree how many leaves and fruits,
+    Think'st thou, lie fall'n there upon the earth?
+    Just one above a thousand of the leaves,
+    And one above a hundred of the fruits;
+    And on those two limbs hang, of dancing leaves,
+    Five crores exact; and shouldst thou pluck yon boughs
+    Together with their shoots, on those twain boughs
+    Swing twice a thousand nuts and ninety-five!"
+      Vahûka checked the chariot wonderingly,
+    And answered: "Imperceptible to me
+    Is what thou boastest, slayer of thy foes!
+    But I to proof will put it, hewing down
+    The tree, and, having counted, I shall know.
+    Before thine eyes the branches twain I'll lop:
+    How prove thee, Maharaja, otherwise,
+    Whether this be or be not? I will count
+    One by one--fruits and leaves--before thee, King;
+    Varshneya, for a space, can rein the steeds."
+      To him replied the Raja: "Time is none
+    Now to delay."
+                    Vahûka answered quick
+    (His own set purpose serving): "Stay this space,
+    Or by thyself drive on! The road is good,
+    The son of Vrishni will be charioteer!"
+      On that the Raja answered soothingly:--
+    "There is not in the earth another man
+    That hath thy skill; and by thy skill I look
+    To reach Vidarbha, O thou steed-tamer!
+    Thou art my trust; make thou not hindrance now!
+    Yet would I suffer, too, what thou dost ask,
+    If thou couldst surely reach Vidarbha's gate
+    Before yon sun hath sunk."
+                               Nala replied:--
+    "When I have counted those vibhîtak boughs,
+    Vidarbha I will reach; now keep thy word."
+      Ill pleased, the Raja said: "Halt then, and count!
+    Take one bough from the branch which I shall show,
+    And tell its fruits, and satisfy thy soul."
+      So leaping from the car--eager he shore
+    The boughs, and counted; and all wonder-struck
+    To Rituparna spake: "Lo, as thou saidst
+    So many fruits there be upon this bough!
+    Exceeding marvellous is this thy gift,
+    I burn to know such learning, how it comes."
+      Answered the Raja, for his journey fain:--
+    "My mind is quick with numbers, skilled to count;
+    I have the science."
+                         "Give it me, dear Lord!"
+    Vahûka cried: "teach me, I pray, this lore,
+    And take from me my skill in horse-taming."
+      Quoth Rituparna--impatient to proceed--
+    Yet of such skill desirous: "Be it so!
+    As thou hast prayed, receive my secret art,
+    Exchanging with me here thy mastery
+    Of horses."
+                Thereupon did he impart
+    His rules of numbers, taking Nala's too.
+      But wonderful! So soon as Nala knew
+    That hidden gift, the accursed Kali leapt
+    Forth from his breast, the evil spirit's mouth
+    Spewing the poison of Karkôtaka
+    Even as he issued. From the afflicted Prince
+    That bitter plague of Kali passed away;
+    And for a space Prince Nala lost himself,
+    Rent by the agony. But when he saw
+    The evil one take visible shape again--
+    Free from the serpent's poison--Nishadha's Lord
+    Had thought to curse him then; but Kali stood
+    With clasped palms trembling, and besought the Prince,
+    Saying: "Thy wrath restrain, Sovereign of men!
+    I will repay thee well. Thy virtuous wife,
+    Indrasen's angered mother, laid her ban
+    Upon me when thou didst forsake her; since
+    Within thee have I dwelled in anguish sore,
+    Tortured and tossed and burning, night and day,
+    With venom from the great snake's fang, which passed
+    Into me by thy blood. Be pitiful!
+    I take my refuge in thy mercy! Hear
+    My promise, Prince! Wherever men henceforth
+    Shall name thee before people, praising thee,
+    This shall protect them from the dread of me;
+    Nala shall guard from Kali, if so now
+    Thou spare to curse me, seeking grace of thee."
+      Thus supplicated, Nala stayed his wrath,
+    Acceding; and the direful Kali fled
+    Into the wounded tree, possessing it.
+    But of no eyes, save Nala's, was he seen,
+    Nor heard of any other; and the Prince,
+    His sorrows shaking off, when Kali passed,
+    After that numbering of the leaves, in joy
+    Unspeakable, and glowing with new hope,
+    Mounted the car again, and urged his steeds.
+    But from that hour the tall Myrobolan,
+    Possessed by Kali, stood there, sear and dead.
+      Then onward, onward, speeding like the birds,
+    Those coursers flew; and fast and faster still
+    The glad Prince cheered them forward, all elate:
+    And proudly rode the Raja towards the walls
+    Of high Vidarbha. Thus did journey down
+    Exultant Nala, free of trouble now,
+    Quit of the evil spell, but bearing still
+    His form misshapen, and the shrunken limb.
+      At sunset in Vidarbha (O great King!)
+    The watchers on the walls proclaimed, "There comes
+    The Raja Rituparna!" Bhima bade
+    Open the gates; and thus they entered in,
+    Making all quarters of the city shake
+    With rattling of the chariot-wheels. But when
+    The horses of Prince Nala heard that sound,
+    For joy they neighed, as when of old their lord
+    Drew nigh. And Damayanti, in her bower,
+    Far off that rattling of the chariot heard,
+    As when at time of rains is heard the voice
+    Of clouds low thundering; and her bosom thrilled
+    At echo of that ringing sound. It came
+    Loud and more loud, like Nala's, when of old,
+    Gripping the reins, he cheered his mares along.
+    It seemed like Nala to the Princess then--
+    That clatter of the trampling of the hoofs;
+    It seemed like Nala to the stabled steeds:
+    Upon the palace-roof the peacocks heard
+    And screamed; the elephants within their stalls
+    Heard it and trumpeted; the coursers, tied,
+    Snorted for joy to hear that leaping car;
+      Peacocks and elephants and cattle stalled
+    All called and clamored with uplifted heads,
+    As wild things do at noise of coming rain.
+      Then to herself the Princess spake: "This car,
+    The rolling of it, echoing all around,
+    Gladdens my heart. It must be Nala comes,
+    My King of men! If I see not, this day,
+    My Prince that hath the bright and moon-like face,
+    My hero of unnumbered gifts, my lord,
+    Ah, I shall die! If this day fall I not
+    Into his opening arms--at last, at last--
+    And feel his close embrace, oh, beyond doubt,
+    I cannot live! If--ending all--to-day
+    Nishadha cometh not, with this deep sound
+    Like far-off thunder, then to-night I'll leap
+    Into the golden, flickering, fiery flames!
+    If now, now, now, my lion draws not nigh,
+    My warrior-love, like the wild elephant,
+    My Prince of princes--I shall surely die!
+    Nought call I now to mind he said or did
+    That was not rightly said and justly done.
+    No idle word he spake, even in free speech;
+    Patient and lordly; generous to bestow
+    Beyond all givers; scorning to be base,
+    Yea, even in secret--such Nishadha was.
+    Alas! when, day and night, I think of him,
+    How is my heart consumed, reft of its joy!"
+      So meditating, like one torn by thoughts,
+    She mounted to the palace-roof to see;
+    And thence, in the mid-court, the car beheld
+    Arriving. Rituparna and Vahûka
+    She saw, with Vrishni's son, descend and loose
+    The panting horses, wheeling back the car.
+      Then Rituparna, alighting, sought the King,
+    Bhima the Maharaja, far-renowned--
+    Whom Bhima with fair courtesies received;
+    Since well he deemed such breathless visit made
+    With deep cause, knowing not the women's plots.
+    "_Swâgatam!"_ cried he; "what hath brought thee, Prince?"
+    For nothing wist he that the Raja came
+    Suitor of Damayanti. Questioned so,
+    This Raja Rituparna, wise and brave,
+    Seeing no kings nor princes in the court,
+    Nor noise of the Swayamvara, nor crowd
+    Of Bráhmans gathering--weighing all those things,
+    Answered in this wise: "I am come, great Lord,
+    To make thee salutations!" But the King
+    Laughed in his beard at Rituparna's word--
+    That this of many weary yojanas
+    Should be the mark. "_Ahoswid_! Hath he passed
+    Through twenty towns," thought he, "and hither flown
+    To bid good-morrow? Nay, it is not that.
+    Good! I shall know it when he bids me know."
+      Thereat, with friendly speech his noble guest
+    The King to rest dismissed. "Repose thyself,"
+    He said; "the road was long; weary thou art."
+    And Rituparna, with sentences of grace
+    Replying to this graciousness, was led
+    By slaves to the allotted sleeping-room;
+    And after Rituparna, Varshneya went.
+    Vahûka, left alone, the chariot ran
+    Into its shed, and from the foamy steeds
+    Unbuckled all the harness, thong by thong,
+    Speaking soft words to them; then sat him down,
+    Alone, forgotten, on the driving-seat.
+      But Damayanti, seeing Rituparna,
+    And Vrishni's son, and him called Vahûka,
+    Spake sorrowful: "Whose was the thunder, then,
+    Of that fleet car? It seemed like Nala's own;
+    Yet here I see no Nala! Hath yon man
+    My lord's art learned, or th'other one, that thus
+    Their car should thunder as when Nala comes?
+    Could Rituparna drive as Nala doth,
+    So that those chariot-wheels should sound like his?"
+    And, after having pondered (O my King!),
+    The beauteous Princess sent her handmaiden
+    To Vahûka, that she might question him.
+      "Go, Keshinî," the Princess said; "inquire
+    Who is that man upon the driving-seat,
+    Misshapen, with the shrunken arm. Approach
+    Composedly, question him winningly
+    With greetings kind, and bid him answer thee
+    According to the truth. I feel at heart
+    A doubt--a hope--that this, perchance, may be
+    My Lord and Prince; there is some new-born joy
+    Fluttering within my breast. Accost him, girl;
+    And, ere thou partest, what Parnâda said,
+    Say thou, and hear him answer, blameless one,
+    And bring it on thy lips!"
+                                Then went the maid
+    Demurely, and accosted Vahûka,
+    While Damayanti watched them from the roof.
+      "_Kushalam tê bravîmi_--health and peace
+    I wish thee!" said she. "Wilt thou answer true
+    What Damayanti asks? She sends to ask
+    Whence set ye forth, and wherefore are ye come
+    Hither? Vidarbha's Princess fain would know."
+      "'Twas told my Raja," Vahûka replied,
+    "That Damayanti for the second turn
+    Holds her Swayamvara: the Bráhman's word
+    Was, "This shall be to-morrow." So he sped,
+    Hearing that news, with steeds which in one day
+    Fly fifty yojanas, swift as the winds,
+    Exceeding fleet. His charioteer am I."
+      "Who, then," Keshinî asked, "is he that rode
+    The third? whence cometh he, and what his race?
+    And thou thyself whence sprung? and tell me why
+    Thou servest thus?"
+                          Then Vahûka replied:--
+    "Varshneya is the third who rode with us,
+    The famous charioteer of Nala he:
+    When thy Prince fled, he went to Koshala
+    And took our service. I in horse-taming
+    And dressing meat have skill; so am I made
+    King Rituparna's driver and his cook."
+      "Knoweth Varshneya, then, where Nala fled?"
+    Inquired the maid; "and did he tell thee this,
+    Or what spake he?"
+                      "Of that unhappy Prince
+    He brought the children hither, and then went
+    Even where he would, of Nala wotting nought;
+    Nor wotteth any man, fair damsel! more.
+    Hidden from mortal eyes Nishadha lives,
+    Wandering the world, his very body changed.
+    Of Nala only Nala's own heart knows,
+    And by no sign doth he bewray himself."
+      Keshinî said: "That Bráhman who did wend
+    First to Ayodhyâ bore a verse to say
+    Over and over, everywhere--strange words,
+    Wove by a woman's wit. Listen to these:--
+
+      'Whither art thou departed, cruel lover,
+        Who stole the half of thy belovèd's cloth,
+      And left her to awaken and discover
+        The wrong thou wroughtest to the love of both?
+      She, as thou didst command, a sad watch keepeth,
+        With woful heart wearing the rended dress.
+      Prince, hear her cry who thus forever weepeth;
+        Be mindful, hero; comfort her distress!'
+
+    What was it thou didst utter, hearing this?
+    Some gentle speech! Say it again--the Queen,
+    My peerless mistress, fain would know from me.
+    Nay, on thy faith, when thou didst hear that man,
+    What was it thou replied? She would know."
+      (Descendant of the Kurus!) Nala's heart,
+    While so the maid spoke, well-nigh burst with grief,
+    And from his eyes fast flowed the rolling tears;
+    But, mastering his anguish, holding down
+    The passion of his pain, with voice which strove
+    To speak through sobs, the Prince repeated this:--
+
+      "Even against the ruined, rash, ungrateful,
+        Faithless, fond Prince, from whom the birds did steal
+      His only cloth, whom now a penance fateful
+        Dooms to sad days, that dark-eyed will not feel
+      Anger; for if she saw him she should see
+        A man consumed with grief and loss and shame;
+      Ill or well lodged, ever in misery,
+        Her unthroned lord, a slave without a name."
+
+      Speaking these verses, woful Nala moaned,
+    And, overcome by thought, restrained no more
+    His trickling tears; fast broke they forth (O King!).
+    But Keshinî, returning, told his words
+    To Damayanti, and the grief of him.
+      When Damayanti heard, sore-troubled still,
+    Yet in her heart supposing him her Prince,
+    Again she spake: "Go, Kashinî, and watch
+    Whatever this man doeth; near him stand,
+    Holding thy peace, and mark the ways of him
+    And all his acts, going and coming; note
+    If aught there be of strange in any deed.
+    Let them not give him fire, my girl--not though
+    This hindereth sore; nor water, though he ask
+    Even with beseeching. Afterwards observe,
+    And bring me what befalls, and every sign
+    Of earthly or unearthly power he shows;
+    And whatsoever else Vahûka doth,
+    See it, and say."
+                    Thereon Keshinî sped,
+    Obeying Damayanti and--at hand--
+    Whatever by that horse-tamer was wrought,
+    The damsel watched, and all his ways; and came
+    Back to the Princess, unto whom she told
+    Each thing Vahûka did, as it befell,
+    And what the signs were, and the wondrous works
+    Of earthly and unearthly gifts in him.
+      "_Subhê_!"[27] quoth she, "the man is magical,
+    But high and holy mannered; never yet
+    Saw I another such, nor heard of him.
+    Passing the low door of the inner court,
+    Where one must stoop, he did not bow his head,
+    But as he came the lintel lifted up
+    And gave him space. Bhima the King had sent
+    Many and diverse meats for Rituparna,
+    Of beast and bird and fish--great store of food--
+    The which to cleanse some chatties stood hard by,
+    All empty; yet he did but look on them,
+    Wishful, and lo! the water brimmed the pots.
+    Then, having washed the meats, he hastened forth
+    In quest of fire, and, holding towards the sun
+    A knot of withered grass, the bright flame blazed
+    Instant amidst it. Wonderstruck was I
+    This miracle to see, and hither ran
+    With other strangest marvels to impart:--
+    For, Princess, when he touched the blazing grass
+    He was not burned, and water flows for him
+    At will, or ceases flowing; and this, too,
+    The strangest thing of all, did I behold--
+    He took some faded leaves and flowers up,
+    And idly handled them; but while his hands
+    Toyed with them, lo! they blossomed forth again
+    With lovelier life than ever, and fresh scent,
+    Straight on their stalks. These marvels have I seen,
+    And fly back now to tell thee, mistress dear!"
+      But when she knew such wonders of the man,
+    More certainly she deemed those acts and gifts
+    Betokened Nala; and so-minded, full
+    Of trust to find her lord in Vahûka,
+    With happier tears and softening voice she said
+    To Keshinî: "Speed yet again, my girl;
+    And, while he wots not, from the kitchen take
+    Meat he hath dressed, and bring it here to me."
+    So went the maid, and, waiting secretly,
+    Broke from the mess a morsel, hot and spiced,
+    And, bearing it with faithful swiftness, gave
+    To Damayanti. She (O Kuru King!)--
+    That knew so well the dishes dressed by him--
+    Touched, tasted it, and, laughing--weeping--cried,
+    Beside herself with joy: "Yes, yes; 'tis he!
+    That charioteer is Nala!" then, a-pant,
+    Even while she washed her mouth, she bade the maid
+    Go with the children twain to Vahûka;
+    Who, when he saw his little Indrasen
+    And Indrasena, started up, and ran,
+    And caught, and folded them upon his breast;
+    Holding them there, his darlings, each as fair
+    As children of the gods. Then, quite undone
+    With love and yearning, loudly sobbed the Prince.
+      Until, perceiving Keshinî, who watched,
+    Shamed to be known, he set his children down,
+    And said: "In sooth, good friend, this lovely pair
+    So like mine own are, that at seeing them
+    I am surprised into these foolish tears.
+    Thou comest here too often; men will think
+    Thee light, or me; remember, we are here,
+    Strangers and guests, girl! Go thy ways in peace!"
+      But seeing that great trouble of his soul,
+    Lightly came Keshinî, and pictured all
+    To Damayanti. She, burning to know
+    If truly this were Nala, bade the girl
+    Seek the Queen's presence, saying thus for her:--
+    "Mother! long watching Vahûka, I deem
+    The charioteer is Nala. One doubt lives--
+    His altered form. I must myself have speech
+    With Vahûka; thou, therefore, bid him come,
+    Or suffer me to seek him. Be this done
+    Forthwith, good mother!--whether known or not
+    Unto the Maharaja."
+                        When she heard,
+    The Queen told Bhima what the Princess prayed,
+    Who gave consent; and having this good leave
+    From father and from mother (O my King!),
+    Command was sent that Vahûka be brought
+    Where the court ladies lodged.
+                                  So met those twain;
+    And when Prince Nala's gaze fell on his wife,
+    He stood with beating heart and tearful eyes.
+    And when sweet Damayanti looked on him,
+    She could not speak for anguish of keen joy
+    To have him close; but sat there, mute and wan,
+    Wearing a sad-hued cloth, her lustrous hair
+    Falling unbanded, and the mourning-mark
+    Stamped in gray ashes on her lovely brow.
+    And, when she found a voice, these were the words
+    That came from her: "Didst ever, Vahûka--
+    If Vahûka thy name be, as thou say'st--
+    Know one of noble nature, honorable,
+    Who in the wild woods left his wife asleep--
+    His innocent, fond wife--weary and worn?
+    Know'st thou the man. I'll say his name to thee;
+    'Twas Nala, Raja Nala! Ah, and when
+    In any thoughtless hour had I once wrought
+    The smallest wrong, that he should leave me so,
+    There in the wood, by slumber overcome?
+    Before the gods I chose him for my lord,
+    The gods themselves rejecting; tell me how
+    This Prince could so abandon, in her need,
+    His true, his loving wife, she who did bear
+    His babes--abandon her to whom he swore--
+    My hand clasped, in the sight of all the gods,
+    And Agni's self--'Thy true lord I will be!'
+    Thou saidst it!--where is now that promise, fled?"
+      While thus she spake (O Victor of thy foes!),
+    Fast from her eyes the woe-sprung waters ran.
+    And Nala, seeing those night-black, loving eyes
+    Reddened with weeping, seeing her falling tears;
+    Broke forth: "Ah! that I lost my throne and realm
+    In dicing, was not done by fault of mine;
+    'T was Kali wrought it; Kali, O my wife,
+    Drove me to leave thee. Therefore, long ago
+    That evil one was stricken by the curse
+    Which thou didst utter, wandering in the wood,
+    Desolate, night and day, grieving for me.
+    Possessing me he dwelt; but, cursed by thee,
+    Tortured he dwelt, consuming with thy words
+    In fierce and fiercer pain, as when is piled
+    Brand upon burning brand. But he is gone;
+    Patience and penance have o'ermastered him.
+    Princess, the end is reached of our long woes.
+    That evil one being fled, freeing my will,
+    See, I am here; and wherefore would I come,
+    Fairest, except for thee? Yet, answer this:--
+    How should a wife, right-minded to her lord--
+    Her own and lawful lord--compass to choose
+    Another love, as thou, that tremblest, didst?
+    Thy messengers over all regions ran,
+    By the King's name proclaiming: 'Bhima's child
+    A second husband chooseth for herself,
+    Whomso she will--as pleaseth--being free,'
+    Those shameless tidings brought the Raja here
+    At headlong speed--and me!"
+                                 Tenderly smiled
+    Damayanti through her tears, with quivering lips,
+    And joined palms, answering her aggrievèd Prince:--
+    "Judgest thou me guilty of such a sin?
+    When for thy sake I put the gods aside--
+    Thee did I choose, Nishadha, my one lord.
+    In quest of thee did all those Bráhmans range
+    In all ten regions, telling all one tale
+    Taught them by me; and so Parnâda came
+    To Koshala, where Rituparna dwells,
+    And found thee in his house, and spake to thee
+    Those words, and had thy gentle answer back.
+    Mine the device was, Prince, to bring thee quick;
+    For well I wist no man in all this world
+    Could in one day the fleetest coursers urge
+    So many yojanas, save thou, dear Prince!
+    I touch thy feet, and tell thee this in truth;
+    And true it is that never any wrong
+    Against thee, even in fancy, have I dreamed.
+    Witness for me, as I am loyal and pure,
+    The ever-shifting, all-beholding Air,
+    Who wanders o'er the earth; let him withdraw
+    My breath and slay me, if I sinned in aught!
+    Witness for me, yon golden Sun who goes
+    With bright eye over us; let him withhold
+    Warm life and kill me, if I sinned in aught!
+    Witness for me the white Moon, whose pale spell
+    Lies on all flesh and spirit; let that orb
+    Deny me peace and end me, if I sinned!
+    These be the watchers and the testifiers,
+    The three chief gods that rule the three wide worlds;
+    I cry unto them; let them speak for me;
+    And thou shalt hear them answer for my faith,
+    Or once again, this day, abandon me."
+      Then Vayu showed--the all-enfolding Air--
+    And spake: "Not one wrong hath she wrought thee, Prince,
+    I tell thee sooth. The treasure of her truth
+    Faultless and undefiled she hath kept
+    By us regarded, and sustained by us,
+    These many days. Her tender plot it was,
+    Planned for thy sake, which brought thee; since who else
+    Could in one day drive threescore yojanas?
+    Nala, thou hast thy noble wife again;
+    Thou, Damayanti, hast thy Nala back.
+    Away with doubting; take her to thy breast,
+    Thrice happy Prince!"
+                          And while God Vayu spake,
+    Look! there showered flowers down out of the sky[28]
+    Upon them; and the drums of heaven beat
+    Beautiful music, and a gentle wind,
+    Fragrant, propitious, floated, kissing them.
+    But Nala, when he saw these things befall--
+    Wonderful, gracious--when he heard that voice
+    Called the great snake to memory:--whereupon
+    His proper self returned. Bhima's fair child
+    Divinely sounding (Lord of Bhârat's line!)--
+    Yielded all doubt of his delightful Love.
+    Then cast he round about his neck the cloth--
+    Unstained by earth, enchanted--and (O King!)
+    Saw her dear lord his beauteous form resume.
+    "Ah, Nala! Nala!" cried she, while her arms
+    Clasped him and clung; and Nala to his heart
+    Pressed that bright lady, glowing, as of old,
+    With princely majesty. Their children twain
+    Next he caressed; while she--at happy peace--
+    Her beautiful glad face laid on his breast,
+    Sighing with too much joy. And Nala stood
+    A great space silent, gazing on her face,
+    Sorrow-stamped yet, her long, deep-lidded eyes,
+    Her melting smile--himself 'twixt joy and woe.
+      Afterwards, all that story of the Prince,
+    And all of Damayanti, Bhima's Queen
+    Told to the Maharaja joyously.
+    And Bhima said: "To-morrow will I see--
+    When Nala hath his needful offerings made--
+    Our daughter and this wandering lord well knit."
+      But all that night they sat, hand clasped in hand,
+    Rejoicing, and relating what befell
+    In the wild wood, and of the woful times.
+      That night being spent, Prince Nala in his state
+    Led forth Vidarbha's Pride before the court.
+    And Bhima--in an hour found fortunate--
+    Re-wed those married lovers. Dutifully
+    Nala paid homage to the Maharaja,
+    And reverently did Damayanti bow
+    Before her father. He the Prince received
+    With grace and gladness, as a son restored,
+    Making fair welcome, and with words of praise
+    Exalting Damayanti, tried and true;
+    Which in all dignity Prince Nala took,
+    Returning, as was meet, words honorable.
+    Therewith unto the city spread the noise
+    Of that rejoicing. All the townspeople,
+    Learning of Nala joyously returned,
+    Made all their quarters gay with float of flags,
+    Flutter of cloths, and garlands; sprinkled free
+    The King's-ways with fresh water, and the cups
+    Of fragrant flowers; and hung long wreaths of flowers.
+    From door to door the white street-fronts before;
+    And decked each temple-porch, and went about
+    The altar-gods.
+    And afterwards, in Bhima's royal house
+    Serenely dwelled the Princess and the Prince,
+    Each making for the other peaceful joy.
+    So in the fourth year Nala was rejoined
+    To Damayanti, comforted and free,
+    Restful, attained, tasting delights again.
+    Also the glad Princess, gaining her lord,
+    Laid sorrows by, and blossomed forth anew,
+    As doth the laughing earth when the rain falls,
+    And brings her unseen, waiting wonders forth
+    Of blade and flower and fruit. The ache was gone,
+    The loneliness and load. Heart-full of ease,
+    Lovelier she grew and brighter, like the moon
+    Mounting at midnight in the cloudless blue.
+                    When Rituparna heard
+    How Vahûka is Nala in disguise,
+    And of the meeting, right rejoiced at heart
+    That Raja grew. And, being softly prayed
+    By Nala favorable thought, the King
+    Made royal and gentle answer, with like grace
+    By Nala met. To whom spake Rituparna:--
+    "Joy go with thee and her, happily joined.
+    But say, Nishadha, wrought I any jot
+    Wrongful to thee, whilst sojourning unknown
+    Within my walls? If any word or deed,
+    Purposed or purposeless, hath vexed thee, friend,
+    For one and all thy pardon grant to me!"
+      And Nala answered: "Never act or word,
+    The smallest, Raja, lingers to excuse!
+    If this were otherwise, thy slave was I,
+    And might not question, but must pardon thee.
+    Yet good to me thou wert, princely and just,
+    And kind thou art; and friendly from this time
+    Deign thou to be. Happily was I lodged,
+    Well-tended, well-befriended in thy house;
+    In mine own palace never better stead.
+    The skill in steeds which pleased thee, that is mine,
+    And, Raja, I will give it all to thee,
+    If thou art minded."
+                         So Nishadha gave
+    All his great gift in horses to the King,
+    Who learned each rule approved, and ordinance;
+    And, having all this knowledge, gave in turn
+    His deepest lore of numbers and the dice
+    To Nala, afterwards departing home
+    To his own place, another charioteer
+    Driving his steeds; and, Rituparna gone,
+    Not long did Nala dwell in Bhima's town.
+      When one moon he had tarried, taking leave,
+    Nishadha to his city started forth
+    With chosen train. A shining car he drove;
+    And elephants sixteen, and fifty horse,
+    And footmen thirty-score came in the rear.
+    Swiftly did Nala journey, making earth
+    Quake 'neath his flying car; and wrathfully
+    With quick steps entered he his palace doors.
+    The son of Virasena, Nala, stood
+    Once more before that gamester Pushkara!
+    Spake he: "Play yet again; much wealth is mine,
+    And that, and all I have--yea, my Princess--
+    Set I for stakes: set thou this realm, and throw!
+    My mind is fixed a second chance to try,
+    Where, Pushkara, we will play for all or none.
+    Who wins his throne and treasures from a prince,
+    Must stand the hazard of the counter-cast--
+    This is the accepted law. If thou dost blench,
+    The next game we will play is 'life or death,'
+    In chariot-fight; when, or of thee or me
+    One shall lie satisfied: 'Descended realms,
+    By whatsoever means, are to be sought,'
+    The sages say, 'by whatsoever won.'
+    Choose, therefore, Pushkara, which way of these
+    Shall please thee; either meet me with the dice,
+    Or with thy bow confront me in the field."
+      When Pushkara this heard, lightly he smiled,
+    Concluding victory sure; and to the Prince
+    Answered, exulting: "_Dishtya_! hast thou gained
+    Stakes for a counter-game, Nishadha, now?
+    _Dishtya_! shall I have my hard-won prize,
+    Sweet Damayanti? _Dishtya_! didst thou come
+    In kissing-reach again of thy fair wife?
+    Soon, in thy new gold splendid, she shall shine
+    Before all men beside me, as in heaven
+    On Sakra waits the loveliest Apsarâ.
+    See, now, I thought on thee, I looked for thee,
+    Ever and ever, Prince. There is no joy
+    Like casting in the game with such as thee.
+    And when to-day I win thy blameless one--
+    The smooth-limbed Damayanti--then shall be
+    What was to be: and I can rest content,
+    For always in my heart her beauty burns."
+      Listening the idle talk that babbler poured,
+    Angry Prince Nala fain had lopped away
+    His head with vengeful _khudga;_[29] but, unmoved,
+    Albeit the wrath blazed in his bloodshot eyes,
+    He made reply: "Play! mock me not with jests;
+    Thou wilt not jest when I have cast with thee!"
+      So was the game set, and the Princes threw
+    Nala and Pushkara, and--the numbers named--
+    By Nala was the hazard gained: he swept
+    His brother's stake, gems, treasure, kingdom, off;
+    At one stroke all that mighty venture won.
+      Then quoth the conquering Prince to Pushkara,
+    Scornfully smiling: "Mine is now once more
+    Nishadha's throne; mine is the realm again,
+    Its curse plucked forth; Vidarbha's glory thou,
+    Outcast, shalt ne'er so much as look upon!
+    Fool! who to-day becom'st her bond and slave.
+    Not by thy gifts that evil stroke was wrought
+    Wherefrom I fled before; 'twas Kali's spell--
+    Albeit thou knew'st nought, fool--overmastered me;
+    Yet will I visit not in wrathful wise
+    My wrong on thee; live as thou wilt; I grant
+    Wherewith to live, and set apart henceforth
+    Thy proper goods and substance, and fit food.
+    Nay, doubt not I shall show thee favor, too,
+    And be in friendship with thee, if thou wilt,
+    Who art my brother. Peace abide with thee!"
+      Thus all-victorious Nala comforted
+    His brother, and embraced him, sending him
+    In honor to his town; and Pushkara--
+    Gently entreated--to Nishadha spake,
+    With folded palms and humbled face, these words:--
+    "Unending be thy glory. May thy bliss
+    Last and increase for twice five thousand years,
+    Who grantest me wherewith to live, just Lord!
+    And where to dwell." Thereafter, well bested,
+    Pushkara sojourned with the Prince one moon;
+    So to his town departed--heart-content--
+    With slaves and foot-soldiers and followers,
+    Gay as a rising sun (O Bhârat's glory!).
+    Thus sent he Pushkara, rich and safe, away.
+    Then, with flags and drums and jewels, robed and royally arrayed,
+    Nala into fair Nishadha entry high and dazzling made;
+    At the gates the Raja, halting, spake his people words of love;
+    Gathered were they from the city, gathered from the field and grove;
+    From the mountain and the maidan, all a-thrill with joy to see
+    Nala come to guard his children. "Happy now our days will be,"
+    Said the townsfolk, said the elders, said the villagers, "O King!"
+    Standing all with palms upfolded: "Peace and fortune thou wilt bring
+    To thy city, to thy country! Boundless welcome do we give,
+    As the gods in heaven to Indra, when with them he comes to live."
+    After, when the show was ended, and the city, calm and glad,
+    Rest from tumult of rejoicing and rich flood of feasting had,
+    Girt with shining squadrons, Nala fetched his pearl of women home.
+    Like a queen did Damayanti back unto her palace come,
+    By the Maharaja Bhima, by that mighty monarch sent
+    Royally, with countless blessings, to her kingdom, in content.
+    There, beside his peerless Princess, and his children, bore he sway,
+    Godlike, even as Indra ruling 'mid the bliss of Nandana.[30]
+    Bore he sway--my noble Nala--princeliest of all lords--who reign
+    In the lands of Jambudwipa;[31] winning power and fame again;
+    Ruling well his realm reconquered, like a just and perfect king,
+    All the appointed gifts bestowing, all the rites remembering.
+
+
+[22] Jhillikas are the large wood-crickets
+
+[23] A caravan.
+
+[24] This is a secretion which flows by a small orifice from the
+elephant's temples at certain seasons. It is sweet-smelling, and
+constantly alluded to in Hindoo poetry.
+
+[25] "Gentleness is chief of virtues."
+
+[26] These "curls" are the "Arvathas," or marks of good blood and
+high-breeding.
+
+[27] "O Beautiful One!"
+
+[28] This raining down of heavenly flowers on auspicious occasions is a
+frequent incident in ancient Indian poetry.
+
+[29] A short; broad-bladed sword.
+
+[30] Nandana is the Paradise of Indra.
+
+[31] Ancient name of India: "The Land of the Rose-apple Tree."
+
+
+
+
+SELECTIONS FROM THE RÁMÁYANA
+
+BY
+
+VÁLMÍKI
+
+
+[_Metrical translation by R.T.H. Griffiths_]
+
+
+INTRODUCTION
+
+
+The ideas of the human family are few, as is apparent from the study of
+the literature of widely different nations. Thus the "Rámáyana" ranks in
+Hindoo with the "Iliad" and the "Odyssey" in Greek literature. The
+character of Ráma corresponds with that of Menelaus, for both the
+European and the Asiatic heroes have had their wives carried off from
+them--although Sítá, the bride of Ráma, is chaste as an icicle from
+Diana's temple, while Helen is the infamous type of wanton wives,
+ancient and modern. The Hindoo Lanka is Troy, and Ayodhyá is Sparta. The
+material civilization of the cities in the Hindoo epic is more luxurious
+and gorgeous than that which Homer attributes to Greece in the heroic
+age. Such splendor and refinement as invests social life at Lanka and
+Ayodhyá never appear amid the severe simplicity of Argos or Troy. The
+moral tone seems perhaps higher in India than in Greece during the
+periods described in their several epics--at least as far as mutual love
+and forbearance go--and the ideas of marriage and conjugal fidelity are
+equally exalted.
+
+As to the literary quality of the Hindoo epic in comparison with Homer's
+work, we are at once impressed with the immense superiority of the Greek
+poem in artistic proportion, point, and precision. The Hindoo poet
+flounders along, amid a maze of prolix description and wearisome simile.
+Trifles are amplified and repeated, and the whole poem resembles a wild
+forest abounding in rich tropical vegetation, palms and flowers, but
+without paths, roads, or limits. Or rather, we are reminded of one of
+the highly painted and richly decorated idols of India, with their many
+heads and many hands: but when we turn to the Greek epic we stand before
+a statue of pure outline, flawless proportions, and more than human
+beauty.
+
+It is difficult to fix the date of the "Rámáyana." Scholars generally
+agree that it belongs to the third century before Christ, in its
+original form, but that some recent portions were added even during the
+Christian era. It is reckoned as one of the sacred books, and the study
+of it is supposed to bring forgiveness of sin, and prosperity. Its
+author is thought to have been the famous poet Válmíki, but the work has
+evidently been rehandled several times, and there are three versions of
+the poems still extant. The poem consists of twenty-four thousand
+verses, and the story of it--now overlaid as it is with extravagant and
+fabulous accretions--is evidently founded on fact. The scene of the poem
+is laid in the city of Ayodhyá, the modern Oudh, which is described in
+glowing colors as a place of health, beauty, and prosperity--
+
+    "In by-gone ages built and planned
+    By sainted Manu's princely hand."
+
+In the splendid palace of the Rajah, at Oudh, lives Daśaratha, mourning
+in childlessness. He is one of the princes descended from the sun, and
+his line now threatens to become extinct. He determines to appeal to the
+Gods by the Asva-medha, the great sacrifice in which a horse is the
+victim. The rites accordingly are performed with unparalleled
+magnificence, and, at the close of the ceremony, the high priest
+declares to the king--
+
+    "Four sons, O Monarch, shall be thine,
+    Upholders of the royal line."
+
+Among the offspring duly granted to Daśaratha is Ráma, who is a typical
+Hindoo of the heroic type. His fair wife, Sítá, is carried off by the
+demon Ravana, who had assumed the form of a humble priest, or ascetic,
+in order to gain access to her. He carries her in his chariot to Lanka,
+the fair city built on an island of the sea. By the assistance of a
+large army of monkeys, Ráma marches against Lanka, and when they stand
+helpless--for the water separates them from Ceylon--he then invokes the
+goddess of the sea, as Achilles did Thetis, and she comes in radiant
+beauty, telling them how to bridge the waves. The monkeys bring timber
+and stones, the bridge is built, Lanka reached, and the battle begins.
+Indra sends his own chariot down from heaven to Ráma, who mounts it, and
+vanquishes Ravana in single combat, upon which Sítá is restored to her
+husband. E.W.
+
+
+
+
+THE RÁMÁYANA
+
+INVOCATION
+
+
+    Praise to Válmíki, bird of charming song,
+    Who mounts on Poesy's sublimest spray,
+    And sweetly sings with accent clear and strong
+    Ráma, aye Ráma, in his deathless lay.
+
+    Where breathes the man can listen to the strain
+    That flows in music from Válmíki's tongue,
+    Nor feel his feet the path of bliss attain
+    When Ráma's glory by the saint is sung?
+
+    The stream Rámáyan leaves its sacred fount
+    The whole wide world from sin and stain to free.
+    The Prince of Hermits is the parent mount,
+    The lordly Ráma is the darling sea.
+
+    Glory to him whose fame is ever bright!
+    Glory to him, Prachet's holy son!
+    Whose pure lips quaff with ever-new delight
+    The nectar-sea of deeds by Ráma done.
+
+    Hail, arch-ascetic, pious, good, and kind!
+    Hail, Saint Válmíki, lord of every lore!
+    Hail, holy Hermit, calm and pure of mind!
+    Hail, First of Bards, Válmíki, hail once more!
+
+
+
+
+BOOK I
+
+CANTO I
+
+NARAD
+
+_Om_.
+
+    To sainted Nárad, prince of those
+    Whose lore in words of wisdom flows,
+    Whose constant care and chief delight
+    Were Scripture and ascetic rite,
+    The good Válmíki, first and best
+    Of hermit saints, these words addressed:--
+    "In all this world, I pray thee, who
+    Is virtuous, heroic, true?
+    Firm in his vows, of grateful mind,
+    To every creature good and kind?
+    Bounteous, and holy, just, and wise,
+    Alone most fair to all men's eyes?
+    Devoid of envy, firm, and sage,
+    Whose tranquil soul ne'er yields to rage?
+    Whom, when his warrior wrath is high,
+    Do Gods embattled fear and fly?
+    Whose noble might and gentle skill
+    The triple world can guard from ill?
+    Who is the best of princes, he
+    Who loves his people's good to see?
+    The store of bliss, the living mine
+    Where brightest joys and virtues shine?
+    Queen Fortune's best and dearest friend,
+    Whose steps her choicest gifts attend?
+    Who may with Sun and Moon compare,
+    With Indra, Vishnu, Fire, and Air?
+    Grant, Saint divine, the boon I ask,
+    For thee, I ween, an easy task,
+    To whom the power is given to know
+    If such a man breathe here below."
+
+    Then Nárad, clear before whose eye
+    The present, past, and future lie,
+    Made ready answer: "Hermit, where
+    Are graces found so high and rare?
+    Yet listen, and my tongue shall tell
+    In whom alone these virtues dwell.
+    From old Ikshváku's line he came,
+    Known to the world by Ráma's name:--
+    With soul subdued, a chief of might,
+    In Scripture versed, in glory bright.
+    His steps in virtue's paths are bent,
+    Obedient, pure, and eloquent.
+    In each emprise he wins success,
+    And dying foes his power confess.
+    Tall and broad-shouldered, strong of limb,
+    Fortune has set her mark on him.
+    Graced with a conch-shell's triple line,
+    His throat displays the auspicious sign.
+    High destiny is clear impressed
+    On massive jaw and ample chest.
+    His mighty shafts he truly aims,
+    And foemen in the battle tames.
+    Deep in the muscle, scarcely shown,
+    Embedded lies his collar-bone.
+    His lordly steps are firm and free,
+    His strong arms reach below his knee;
+    All fairest graces join to deck
+    His head, his brow, his stately neck,
+    And limbs in fair proportion set:--
+    The manliest form e'er fashioned yet.
+    Graced with each high imperial mark,
+    His skin is soft and lustrous dark.
+    Large are his eyes that sweetly shine
+    With majesty almost divine.
+    His plighted word he ne'er forgets;
+    On erring sense a watch he sets.
+    By nature wise, his teacher's skill
+    Has trained him to subdue his will.
+    Good, resolute and pure, and strong,
+    He guards mankind from scathe and wrong,
+    And lends his aid, and ne'er in vain,
+    The cause of justice to maintain.
+    Well has he studied o'er and o'er
+    The Vedas and their kindred lore.
+    Well skilled is he the bow to draw,
+    Well trained in arts and versed in law;
+    High-souled and meet for happy fate,
+    Most tender and compassionate;
+    The noblest of all lordly givers,
+    Whom good men follow, as the rivers
+    Follow the King of Floods, the sea:--
+    So liberal, so just is he.
+    The joy of Queen Kauśalyá's heart,
+    In every virtue he has part;
+    Firm as Himálaya's snowy steep,
+    Unfathomed like the mighty deep;
+    The peer of Vishnu's power and might,
+    And lovely as the Lord of Night;
+    Patient as Earth, but, roused to ire,
+    Fierce as the world-destroying fire;
+    In bounty like the Lord of Gold,
+    And Justice' self in human mould.
+    With him, his best and eldest son,
+    By all his princely virtues won
+    King Daśaratha willed to share
+    His kingdom as the Regent Heir.
+    But when Kaikeyí, youngest queen,
+    With eyes of envious hate had seen
+    The solemn pomp and regal state
+    Prepared the prince to consecrate,
+    She bade the hapless king bestow
+    Two gifts he promised long ago,
+    That Ráma to the woods should flee,
+    And that her child the heir should be.
+
+    By chains of duty firmly tied,
+    The wretched King perforce complied.
+    Ráma, to please Kaikeyí went
+    Obedient forth, to banishment.
+    Then Lakshman's truth was nobly shown,
+    Then were his love and courage known,
+    When for his brother's sake he dared
+    All perils, and his exile shared.
+    And Sítá, Ráma's darling wife,
+    Loved even as he loved his life,
+    Whom happy marks combined to bless,
+    A miracle of loveliness,
+    Of Janak's royal lineage sprung,
+    Most excellent of women, clung
+    To her dear lord, like Rohiní
+    Rejoicing with the Moon to be.
+    The King and people, sad of mood,
+    The hero's car awhile pursued.
+    But when Prince Ráma lighted down
+    At Śringavera's pleasant town,
+    Where Gangá's holy waters flow,
+    He bade his driver turn and go.
+    Guha, Nishádas' King, he met,
+    And on the farther bank was set.
+    Then on from wood to wood they strayed,
+    O'er many a stream, through constant shade,
+    As Bharadvája bade them, till
+    They came to Chitrakúta's hill.
+    And Ráma there, with Lakshman's aid,
+    A pleasant little cottage made,
+    And spent his days with Sítá, dressed
+    In coat of bark and deerskin vest.
+    And Chitrakúta grew to be
+    As bright with those illustrious three
+    As Meru's sacred peaks that shine
+    With glory, when the Gods recline
+    Beneath them: Śiva's self between
+    The Lord of Gold and Beauty's Queen.
+
+    The aged King for Ráma pined,
+    And for the skies the earth resigned.
+    Bharat, his son, refused to reign,
+    Though urged by all the twice-born train.
+    Forth to the woods he fared to meet
+    His brother, fell before his feet,
+    And cried "Thy claim all men allow:--
+    O come, our lord and King be thou."
+    But Ráma nobly chose to be
+    Observant of his sire's decree.
+    He placed his sandals in his hand,
+    A pledge that he would rule the land:--
+    And bade his brother turn again.
+    Then Bharat, finding prayer was vain,
+    The sandals took and went away;
+    Nor in Ayodhyá would he stay,
+    But turned to Nandigráma, where
+    He ruled the realm with watchful care,
+    Still longing eagerly to learn
+    Tidings of Ráma's safe return.
+
+    Then lest the people should repeat
+    Their visit to his calm retreat,
+    Away from Chitrakúta's hill
+    Fared Ráma, ever onward till
+    Beneath the shady trees he stood
+    Of Dandaká's primeval wood.
+    Virádha, giant fiend, he slew,
+    And then Agastya's friendship knew.
+    Counselled by him he gained the sword
+    And bow of Indra, heavenly lord:--
+    A pair of quivers too, that bore
+    Of arrows an exhaustless store.
+    While there he dwelt in greenwood shade,
+    The trembling hermits sought his aid,
+    And bade him with his sword and bow
+    Destroy the fiends who worked them woe:--
+    To come like Indra strong and brave,
+    A guardian God to help and save.
+    And Ráma's falchion left its trace
+    Deep cut on Súrpanakhá's face:--
+    A hideous giantess who came
+    Burning for him with lawless flame.
+    Their sister's cries the giants heard,
+    And vengeance in each bosom stirred;
+    The monster of the triple head,
+    And Dúshan to the contest sped.
+    But they and myriad fiends beside
+    Beneath the might of Ráma died.
+
+    When Rávan, dreaded warrior, knew
+    The slaughter of his giant crew--
+    Rávan, the King, whose name of fear
+    Earth, hell, and heaven all shook to hear--
+    He bade the fiend Márícha aid
+    The vengeful plot his fury laid.
+    In vain the wise Márícha tried
+    To turn him from his course aside:--
+    Not Rávan's self, he said, might hope
+    With Ráma and his strength to cope.
+    Impelled by fate and blind with rage
+    He came to Ráma's hermitage.
+    There, by Márícha's magic art,
+    He wiled the princely youths apart,
+    The vulture slew, and bore away
+    The wife of Ráma as his prey.
+    The son of Raghu came and found
+    Jatáyu slain upon the ground.
+    He rushed within his leafy cot;
+    He sought his wife, but found her not.
+    Then, then the hero's senses failed;
+    In mad despair he wept and wailed.
+    Upon the pile that bird he laid,
+    And still in quest of Sítá strayed.
+    A hideous giant then he saw,
+    Kabandha named, a shape of awe.
+
+    The monstrous fiend he smote and slew,
+    And in the flame the body threw;
+    When straight from out the funeral flame
+    In lovely form Kabandha came,
+    And bade him seek in his distress
+    A wise and holy hermitess.
+    By counsel of this saintly dame
+    To Pampá's pleasant flood he came,
+    And there the steadfast friendship won
+    Of Hanumán the Wind-God's son.
+    Counselled by him he told his grief
+    To great Sugríva, Vánar chief,
+    Who, knowing all the tale, before
+    The sacred flame alliance swore.
+    Sugríva to his new-found friend
+    Told his own story to the end:--
+    His hate of Báli for the wrong
+    And insult he had borne so long.
+    And Ráma lent a willing ear
+    And promised to allay his fear.
+    Sugríva warned him of the might
+    Of Báli, matchless in the fight,
+    And, credence for his tale to gain,
+    Showed the huge fiend by Báli slain.
+    The prostrate corse of mountain size
+    Seemed nothing in the hero's eyes;
+    He lightly kicked it, as it lay,
+    And cast it twenty leagues away.
+    To prove his might his arrows through
+    Seven palms in line, uninjured, flew.
+    He cleft a mighty hill apart,
+    And down to hell he hurled his dart.
+    Then high Sugríva's spirit rose,
+    Assured of conquest o'er his foes.
+    With his new champion by his side
+    To vast Kishkindhá's cave he hied.
+    Then, summoned by his awful shout,
+    King Báli came in fury out,
+    First comforted his trembling wife,
+    Then sought Sugríva in the strife.
+    One shaft from Ráma's deadly bow
+    The monarch in the dust laid low.
+    Then Ráma bade Sugríva reign
+    In place of royal Báli slain.
+    Then speedy envoys hurried forth
+    Eastward and westward, south and north,
+    Commanded by the grateful King
+    Tidings of Ráma's spouse to bring.
+    Then by Sampáti's counsel led,
+    Brave Hanumán, who mocked at dread,
+    Sprang at one wild tremendous leap
+    Two hundred leagues, across the deep.
+    To Lanká's[32] town he urged his way,
+    Where Rávan held his royal sway.
+    There pensive 'neath Aśoka boughs
+    He found poor Sítá, Ráma's spouse.
+    He gave the hapless girl a ring,
+    A token from her lord and King.
+    A pledge from her fair hand he bore;
+    Then battered down the garden door.
+    Five captains of the host he slew,
+    Seven sons of councillors o'erthrew;
+    Crushed youthful Aksha on the field,
+    Then to his captors chose to yield.
+    Soon from their bonds his limbs were free,
+    But honoring the high decree
+    Which Brahmá had pronounced of yore,
+    He calmly all their insults bore.
+    The town he burnt with hostile flame,
+    And spoke again with Ráma's dame,
+    Then swiftly back to Ráma flew
+    With tidings of the interview.
+
+    Then with Sugríva for his guide,
+    Came Ráma to the ocean side.
+    He smote the sea with shafts as bright
+    As sunbeams in their summer height,
+    And quick appeared the River's King
+    Obedient to the summoning.
+    A bridge was thrown by Nala o'er
+    The narrow sea from shore to shore.
+    They crossed to Lanká's golden town,
+    Where Ráma's hand smote Rávan down.
+    Vibhíshan there was left to reign
+    Over his brother's wide domain.
+    To meet her husband Sítá came;
+    But Ráma, stung with ire and shame,
+    With bitter words his wife addressed
+    Before the crowd that round her pressed.
+    But Sítá, touched with noble ire,
+    Gave her fair body to the fire.
+    Then straight the God of Wind appeared,
+    And words from heaven her honor cleared.
+    And Ráma clasped his wife again,
+    Uninjured, pure from spot and stain,
+    Obedient to the Lord of Fire
+    And the high mandate of his sire.
+    Led by the Lord who rules the sky,
+    The Gods and heavenly saints drew nigh,
+    And honored him with worthy meed,
+    Rejoicing in each glorious deed.
+    His task achieved, his foe removed,
+    He triumphed, by the Gods approved.
+    By grace of Heaven he raised to life
+    The chieftains slain in mortal strife;
+    Then in the magic chariot through
+    The clouds to Nandigráma flew.
+    Met by his faithful brothers there,
+    He loosed his votive coil of hair;
+    Thence fair Ayodhyá's town he gained,
+    And o'er his father's kingdom reigned.
+    Disease or famine ne'er oppressed
+    His happy people, richly blest
+    With all the joys of ample wealth,
+    Of sweet content and perfect health.
+    No widow mourned her well-loved mate,
+    No sire his son's untimely fate.
+    They feared not storm or robber's hand,
+    No fire or flood laid waste the land:
+    The Golden Age seemed come again
+    To bless the days of Ráma's reign.
+    From him the great and glorious King,
+    Shall many a princely scion spring.
+    And he shall rule, beloved by men,
+    Ten thousand years and hundreds ten,
+    And when his life on earth is past
+    To Brahmá's world shall go at last.
+
+    Whoe'er this noble poem reads
+    That tells the tale of Ráma's deeds,
+    Good as the Scriptures, he shall be
+    From every sin and blemish free.
+    Whoever reads the saving strain,
+    With all his kin the heavens shall gain.
+    Bráhmans who read shall gather hence
+    The highest praise for eloquence.
+    The warrior, o'er the land shall reign,
+    The merchant, luck in trade obtain;
+    And Súdras, listening, ne'er shall fail
+    To reap advantage from the tale.
+
+[_Cantos II., III., IV., and V. are omitted_.]
+
+
+[32] Ceylon.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO VI
+
+THE KING
+
+    There reigned a King of name revered,
+    To country and to town endeared,
+    Great Daśaratha, good and sage,
+    Well read in Scripture's holy page:
+    Upon his kingdom's weal intent,
+    Mighty and brave and provident;
+    The pride of old Ikshváku's seed
+    For lofty thought and righteous deed.
+    Peer of the saints, for virtues famed,
+    For foes subdued and passions tamed;
+    A rival in his wealth untold
+    Of Indra and the Lord of Gold.
+    Like Manu first of kings, he reigned,
+    And worthily his state maintained.
+    For firm and just and ever true
+    Love, duty, gain, he kept in view,
+    And ruled his city rich and free,
+    Like Indra's Amarávatí.
+    And worthy of so fair a place
+    There dwelt a just and happy race
+    With troops of children blest.
+    Each man contented sought no more,
+    Nor longed with envy for the store
+    By richer friends possessed.
+    For poverty was there unknown,
+    And each man counted as his own
+    Kine, steeds, and gold, and grain.
+    All dressed in raiment bright and clean,
+    And every townsman might be seen
+    With ear-rings, wreath or chain.
+    None deigned to feed on broken fare,
+    And none was false or stingy there.
+    A piece of gold, the smallest pay,
+    Was earned by labor for a day.
+    On every arm were bracelets worn,
+    And none was faithless or forsworn,
+    A braggart or unkind.
+    None lived upon another's wealth,
+    None pined with dread or broken health,
+    Or dark disease of mind.
+    High-souled were all. The slanderous word,
+    The boastful lie, were never heard.
+    Each man was constant to his vows,
+    And lived devoted to his spouse.
+    No other love his fancy knew,
+    And she was tender, kind, and true.
+    Her dames were fair of form and face,
+    With charm of wit and gentle grace,
+    With modest raiment simply neat,
+    And winning manners soft and sweet.
+    The twice-born sages, whose delight
+    Was Scripture's page and holy rite,
+    Their calm and settled course pursued,
+    Nor sought the menial multitude.
+    In many a Scripture each was versed,
+    And each the flame of worship nursed,
+    And gave with lavish hand.
+    Each paid to Heaven the offerings due,
+    And none was godless or untrue
+    In all that holy band.
+    To Bráhmans, as the laws ordain,
+    The Warrior caste were ever fain
+    The reverence due to pay;
+    And these the Vaiśyas' peaceful crowd,
+    Who trade and toil for gain, were proud
+    To honor and obey;
+    And all were by the Súdras served,
+    Who never from their duty swerved.
+    Their proper worship all addressed
+    To Bráhman, spirits, God, and guest.
+    Pure and unmixt their rites remained,
+    Their race's honor ne'er was stained.
+    Cheered by his grandsons, sons, and wife,
+    Each passed a long and happy life.
+    Thus was that famous city held
+    By one who all his race excelled,
+    Blest in his gentle reign,
+    As the whole land aforetime swayed
+    By Manu, prince of men, obeyed
+    Her king from main to main.
+    And heroes kept her, strong and brave,
+    As lions guard their mountain cave;
+    Fierce as devouring flame they burned,
+    And fought till death, but never turned.
+    Horses had she of noblest breed,
+    Like Indra's for their form and speed,
+    From Váhli's hills and Sindhu's sand,
+    Vanáyu and Kámboja's land.
+    Her noble elephants had strayed
+    Through Vindhyan and Himálayan shade,
+    Gigantic in their bulk and height,
+    Yet gentle in their matchless might.
+    They rivalled well the world-spread fame
+    Of the great stock from which they came,
+    Of Váman, vast of size,
+    Of Mahápadma's glorious line,
+    Thine, Anjan, and, Airávat, thine,
+    Upholders of the skies.
+    With those, enrolled in fourfold class,
+    Who all their mighty kin surpass,
+    Whom men Matangas name,
+    And Mrigas spotted black and white,
+    And Bhadras of unwearied might,
+    And Mandras hard to tame.
+    Thus, worthy of the name she bore,
+    Ayodhyá for a league or more
+    Cast a bright glory round,
+    Where Daśaratha wise and great
+    Governed his fair ancestral state,
+    With every virtue crowned.
+    Like Indra in the skies he reigned
+    In that good town whose wall contained
+    High domes and turrets proud,
+    With gates and arcs of triumph decked,
+    And sturdy barriers to protect
+    Her gay and countless crowd.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO VII
+
+THE MINISTERS
+
+    Two sages, holy saints, had he,
+    His ministers and priests to be:--
+    Vaśishtha, faithful to advise,
+    And Vámadeva, Scripture-wise.
+    Eight other lords around him stood,
+    All skilled to counsel, wise and good:--
+    Jayanta, Vijay, Dhrishti bold
+    In fight, affairs of war controlled;
+    Siddhárth and Arthasádhak true
+    Watched o'er expense and revenue,
+    And Dharmapál and wise Aśok
+    Of right and law and justice spoke.
+    With these the sage Sumantra, skilled
+    To urge the car, high station filled.
+    All these in knowledge duly trained
+    Each passion and each sense restrained:--
+    With modest manners, nobly bred,
+    Each plan and nod and look they read,
+    Upon their neighbors' good intent,
+    Most active and benevolent;
+    As sits the Vasus round their King,
+    They sate around him counselling.
+    They ne'er in virtue's loftier pride
+    Another's lowly gifts decried.
+    In fair and seemly garb arrayed,
+    No weak uncertain plans they made.
+    Well skilled in business, fair and just,
+    They gained the people's love and trust,
+    And thus without oppression stored
+    The swelling treasury of their lord.
+    Bound in sweet friendship each to each,
+    They spoke kind thoughts in gentle speech.
+    They looked alike with equal eye
+    On every caste, on low and high.
+    Devoted to their King, they sought,
+    Ere his tongue spoke, to learn his thought,
+    And knew, as each occasion rose,
+    To hide their counsel or disclose.
+    In foreign lands or in their own
+    Whatever passed, to them was known.
+    By secret spies they timely knew
+    What men were doing or would do.
+    Skilled in the grounds of war and peace
+    They saw the monarch's state increase,
+    Watching his weal with conquering eye
+    That never let occasion by,
+    While nature lent her aid to bless
+    Their labors with unbought success.
+    Never for anger, lust, or gain,
+    Would they their lips with falsehood stain.
+    Inclined to mercy they could scan
+    The weakness and the strength of man.
+    They fairly judged both high and low,
+    And ne'er would wrong a guiltless foe;
+    Yet if a fault were proved, each one
+    Would punish e'en his own dear son.
+    But there and in the kingdom's bound
+    No thief or man impure was found:--
+    None of loose life or evil fame,
+    No tempter of another's dame.
+    Contented with their lot each caste
+    Calm days in blissful quiet passed;
+    And, all in fitting tasks employed,
+    Country and town deep rest enjoyed.
+    With these wise lords around his throne
+    The monarch justly reigned,
+    And making every heart his own
+    The love of all men gained.
+    With trusty agents, as beseems,
+    Each distant realm he scanned,
+    As the sun visits with his beams
+    Each corner of the land.
+    Ne'er would he on a mightier foe
+    With hostile troops advance,
+    Nor at an equal strike a blow
+    In war's delusive chance.
+    These lords in council bore their part
+    With ready brain and faithful heart,
+    With skill and knowledge, sense and tact,
+    Good to advise and bold to act.
+    And high and endless fame he won
+    With these to guide his schemes--
+    As, risen in his might, the sun
+    Wins glory with his beams.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO VIII
+
+SUMANTRA'S SPEECH
+
+    But splendid, just, and great of mind,
+    The childless King for offspring pined.
+    No son had he his name to grace,
+    Transmitter of his royal race.
+    Long had his anxious bosom wrought,
+    And as he pondered rose the thought:--
+    "A votive steed 'twere good to slay,
+    So might a son the gift repay."
+    Before his lords his plans he laid,
+    And bade them with their wisdom aid;
+    Then with these words Sumantra, best
+    Of royal counsellors, addressed:--
+    "Hither, Vaśishtha at their head,
+    Let all my priestly guides be led."
+
+    To him Sumantra made reply:--
+    "Hear, sire, a tale of days gone by.
+    To many a sage in time of old,
+    Sanatkumár, the saint, foretold
+    How from thine ancient line, O King,
+    A son, when years came round, should spring
+    'Here dwells,' 'twas thus the seer began,
+    'Of Kaśyap's race, a holy man,
+    Vibhándak named: to him shall spring
+    A son, the famous Rishyaśring.
+    Bred with the deer that round him roam,
+    The wood shall be that hermit's home.
+    To him no mortal shall be known
+    Except his holy sire alone.
+    Still by those laws shall he abide
+    Which lives of youthful Bráhmans guide,
+    Obedient to the strictest rule
+    That forms the young ascetic's school:
+    And all the wondering world shall hear
+    Of his stern life and penance drear;
+    His care to nurse the holy fire
+    And do the bidding of his sire.
+    Then, seated on the Angas' throne,
+    Shall Lomapád to fame be known.
+    But folly wrought by that great King
+    A plague upon the land shall bring;
+    No rain for many a year shall fall
+    And grievous drought shall ruin all.
+    The troubled King with many a prayer
+    Shall bid the priests some cure declare:--
+    "The lore of Heaven 'tis yours to know,
+    Nor are ye blind to things below:--
+    Declare, O holy men, the way
+    This plague to expiate and stay."
+    Those best of Bráhmans shall reply:--
+    "By every art, O Monarch, try,
+    Hither to bring Vibhándak's child,
+    Persuaded, captured, or beguiled.
+    And when the boy is hither led
+    To him thy daughter duly wed."
+
+    But how to bring that wondrous boy
+    His troubled thoughts will long employ,
+    And hopeless to achieve the task
+    He counsel of his lords will ask,
+    And bid his priests and servants bring
+    With honor saintly Rishyaśring.
+    But when they hear the monarch's speech,
+    All these their master will beseech,
+    With trembling hearts and looks of woe,
+    To spare them, for they fear to go.
+    And many a plan will they declare
+    And crafty plots will frame,
+    And promise fair to show him there,
+    Unforced, with none to blame.
+    On every word his lords shall say,
+    The King will meditate,
+    And on the third returning day
+    Recall them to debate.
+    Then this shall be the plan agreed,
+    That damsels shall be sent
+    Attired in holy hermits' weed,
+    And skilled in blandishment,
+    That they the hermit may beguile
+    With every art and amorous wile
+    Whose use they know so well,
+    And by their witcheries seduce
+    The unsuspecting young recluse
+    To leave his father's cell.
+    Then when the boy with willing feet
+    Shall wander from his calm retreat
+    And in that city stand,
+    The troubles of the King shall end,
+    And streams of blessed rain descend
+    Upon the thirsty land.
+    Thus shall the holy Rishyaśring
+    To Lomapád, the mighty King,
+    By wedlock be allied;
+    For Śántá, fairest of the fair,
+    In mind and grace beyond compare,
+    Shall be his royal bride.
+    He, at the Offering of the Steed,
+    The flames with holy oil shall feed,
+    And for King Daśaratha gain
+    Sons whom his prayers have begged in vain,'
+    I have repeated, sire, thus far,
+    The words of old Sanatkumár,
+    In order as he spoke them then
+    Amid the crowd of holy men."
+    Then Daśaratha cried with joy,
+    "Say how they brought the hermit boy."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO IX
+
+RISHYAŚRING
+
+    The wise Sumantra, thus addressed,
+    Unfolded at the King's behest
+    The plan the lords in council laid
+    To draw the hermit from the shade.
+    The priest, amid the lordly crowd,
+    To Lomapád thus spoke aloud:--
+    "Hear, King, the plot our thoughts have framed,
+    A harmless trick by all unblamed.
+    Far from the world that hermit's child
+    Lives lonely in the distant wild:
+    A stranger to the joys of sense,
+    His bliss is pain and abstinence;
+    And all unknown are women yet
+    To him, a holy anchoret.
+    The gentle passions we will wake
+    That with resistless influence shake
+    The hearts of men; and he
+    Drawn by enchantment strong and sweet
+    Shall follow from his lone retreat,
+    And come and visit thee.
+    Let ships be formed with utmost care
+    That artificial trees may bear,
+    And sweet fruit deftly made;
+    Let goodly raiment, rich and rare,
+    And flowers, and many a bird be there
+    Beneath the leafy shade.
+    Upon the ships thus decked a band
+    Of young and lovely girls shall stand,
+    Rich in each charm that wakes desire,
+    And eyes that burn with amorous fire;
+    Well skilled to sing, and play, and dance,
+    And ply their trade with smile and glance.
+    Let these, attired in hermits' dress,
+    Betake them to the wilderness,
+    And bring the boy of life austere
+    A voluntary captive here,"
+    He ended; and the King agreed,
+    By the priest's counsel won,
+    And all the ministers took heed
+    To see his bidding done.
+    In ships with wondrous art prepared
+    Away the lovely women fared,
+    And soon beneath the shade they stood
+    Of the wild, lonely, dreary wood.
+    And there the leafy cot they found
+    Where dwelt the devotee.
+    And looked with eager eyes around
+    The hermit's son to see.
+    Still, of Vibhándak sore afraid,
+    They hid behind the creeper's shade.
+    But when by careful watch they knew
+    The elder saint was far from view,
+    With bolder steps they ventured nigh
+    To catch the youthful hermit's eye.
+    Then all the damsels blithe and gay,
+    At various games began to play.
+    They tossed the flying ball about
+    With dance and song and merry shout,
+    And moved, their scented tresses bound
+    With wreaths, in mazy motions round.
+    Some girls as if by love possessed,
+    Sank to the earth in feigned unrest,
+    Up-starting quickly to pursue
+    Their intermitted game anew.
+    It was a lovely sight to see
+    Those fair ones, as they played,
+    While fragrant robes were floating free,
+    And bracelets clashing in their glee
+    A pleasant tinkling made.
+    The anklet's chime, the Koïl's cry
+    With music filled the place,
+    As 'twere some city in the sky;
+    Which heavenly minstrels grace.
+    With each voluptuous art they strove
+    To win the tenant of the grove,
+    And with their graceful forms inspire
+    His modest soul with soft desire.
+    With arch of brow, with beck and smile,
+    With every passion-waking wile
+    Of glance and lotus hand,
+    With all enticements that excite
+    The longing for unknown delight
+    Which boys in vain withstand.
+    Forth came the hermit's son to view
+    The wondrous sight to him so new,
+    And gazed in rapt surprise
+    For from his natal hour till then
+    On woman or the sons of men
+    He ne'er had cast his eyes.
+    He saw them with their waists so slim,
+    With fairest shape and faultless limb,
+    In variegated robes arrayed,
+    And sweetly singing as they played.
+    Near and more near the hermit drew,
+    And watched them at their game,
+    And stronger still the impulse grew
+    To question whence they came.
+    They marked the young ascetic gaze
+    With curious eye and wild amaze,
+    And sweet the long-eyed damsels sang,
+    And shrill their merry laughter rang.
+    Then came they nearer to his side,
+    And languishing with passion cried:--
+    "Whose son, O youth, and who art thou,
+    Come suddenly to join us now?
+    And why dost thou all lonely dwell
+    In the wild wood? We pray thee, tell.
+    We wish to know thee, gentle youth;
+    Come, tell us, if thou wilt, the truth,"
+    He gazed upon that sight he ne'er
+    Had seen before, of girls so fair,
+    And out of love a longing rose
+    His sire and lineage to disclose:--
+    "My father," thus he made reply,
+    "Is Kaśyap's son, a saint most high,
+    Vibhándak styled; from him I came,
+    And Rishyaśring he calls my name.
+    Our hermit cot is near this place:--
+    Come thither, O ye fair of face;
+    There be it mine, with honor due,
+    Ye gentle youths, to welcome you."
+
+    They heard his speech, and gave consent,
+    And gladly to his cottage went.
+    Vibhándak's son received them well
+    Beneath the shelter of his cell--
+    With guest-gift, water for their feet,
+    And woodland fruit and roots to eat.
+    They smiled and spoke sweet words like these.
+    Delighted with his courtesies:--
+    "We too have goodly fruit in store,
+    Grown on the trees that shade our door;
+    Come, if thou wilt, kind Hermit, haste
+    The produce of our grove to taste;
+    And let, O good Ascetic, first
+    This holy water quench thy thirst."
+    They spoke, and gave him comfits sweet
+    Prepared ripe fruits to counterfeit;
+    And many a dainty cate beside,
+    And luscious mead their stores supplied.
+    The seeming fruits, in taste and look,
+    The unsuspecting hermit took,
+    For, strange to him, their form beguiled
+    The dweller in the lonely wild.
+    Then round his neck fair arms were flung,
+    And there the laughing damsels clung,
+    And pressing nearer and more near
+    With sweet lips whispered at his ear;
+    While rounded limb and swelling breast
+    The youthful hermit softly pressed.
+    The pleasing charm of that strange bowl,
+    The touch of a tender limb,
+    Over his yielding spirit stole
+    And sweetly vanquished him--
+    But vows, they said, must now be paid;
+    They bade the boy farewell,
+    And of the aged saint afraid,
+    Prepared to leave the dell.
+    With ready guile they told him where
+    Their hermit dwelling lay;
+    Then, lest the sire should find them there,
+    Sped by wild paths away.
+    They fled and left him there alone
+    By longing love possessed;
+    And with a heart no more his own
+    He roamed about distressed.
+    The aged saint came home, to find
+    The hermit boy distraught,
+    Revolving in his troubled mind
+    One solitary thought.
+    "Why dost thou not, my son," he cried,
+    "Thy due obeisance pay?
+    Why do I see thee in the tide
+    Of whelming thought to-day?
+    A devotee should never wear
+    A mien so sad and strange.
+    Come, quickly, dearest child, declare
+    The reason of the change."
+    And Rishyaśring, when questioned thus,
+    Made answer in this wise:--
+    "O sire, there came to visit us
+    Some men with lovely eyes.
+    About my neck soft arms they wound
+    And kept me tightly held
+    To tender breasts so soft and round,
+    That strangely heaved and swelled.
+    They sing more sweetly as they dance
+    Than e'er I heard till now,
+    And play with many a sidelong glance
+    And arching of the brow."
+    "My son," said he, "thus giants roam
+    Where holy hermits are,
+    And wander round their peaceful home
+    Their rites austere to mar.
+    I charge thee, thou must never lay
+    Thy trust in them, dear boy:--
+    They seek thee only to betray,
+    And woo but to destroy."
+    Thus having warned him of his foes
+    That night at home he spent,
+    And when the morrow's sun arose
+    Forth to the forest went.
+
+    But Rishyaśring with eager pace
+    Sped forth and hurried to the place
+    Where he those visitants had seen
+    Of dainty waist and charming mien.
+    When from afar they saw the son
+    Of Saint Vibhándak toward them run,
+    To meet the hermit boy they hied,
+    And hailed him with a smile, and cried:--
+    "O come, we pray, dear lord, behold
+    Our lovely home of which we told:--
+    Due honor there to thee we'll pay,
+    And speed thee on thy homeward way."
+    Pleased with the gracious words they said
+    He followed where the damsels led.
+    As with his guides his steps he bent,
+    That Bráhman high of worth,
+    A flood of rain from heaven sent
+    That gladdened all the earth.
+
+    Vibhándak took his homeward road,
+    And wearied by the heavy load
+    Of roots and woodland fruit he bore
+    Entered at last his cottage door.
+    Fain for his son he looked around,
+    But desolate the cell he found.
+    He stayed not then to bathe his feet,
+    Though fainting with the toil and heat,
+    But hurried forth and roamed about
+    Calling the boy with cry and shout.
+    He searched the wood, but all in vain;
+    Nor tidings of his son could gain.
+    One day beyond the forest's bound
+    The wandering saint a village found,
+    And asked the swains and neatherds there
+    Who owned the land so rich and fair,
+    With all the hamlets of the plain,
+    And herds of kine and fields of grain.
+    They listened to the hermit's words,
+    And all the guardians of the herds,
+    With suppliant hands together pressed,
+    This answer to the saint addressed:--
+    "The Angas' lord who bears the name
+    Of Lomapád, renowned by fame,
+    Bestowed these hamlets with their kine
+    And all their riches, as a sign
+    Of grace, on Rishyaśring; and he
+    Vibhándak's son is said to be."
+    The hermit with exulting breast
+    The mighty will of fate confessed,
+    By meditation's eye discerned;
+    And cheerful to his home returned.
+
+    A stately ship, at early morn,
+    The hermit's son away had borne.
+    Loud roared the clouds, as on he sped,
+    The sky grew blacker overhead;
+    Till, as he reached the royal town,
+    A mighty flood of rain came down.
+    By the great rain the monarch's mind
+    The coming of his guest divined.
+    To meet the honored youth he went,
+    And low to earth his head he bent.
+    With his own priest to lead the train,
+    He gave the gift high guests obtain,
+    And sought, with all who dwelt within
+    The city walls, his grace to win.
+    He fed him with the daintiest fare,
+    He served him with unceasing care,
+    And ministered with anxious eyes
+    Lest anger in his breast should rise;
+    And gave to be the Bráhman's bride
+    His own fair daughter, lotus-eyed.
+
+    Thus loved and honored by the King,
+    The glorious Bráhman Rishyaśring
+    Passed in that royal town his life
+    With Śántá his beloved wife.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO X
+
+RISHYAŚRING INVITED
+
+    "Again, O best of Kings, give ear:--
+    My saving words attentive hear,
+    And listen to the tale of old
+    By that illustrious Bráhman told.
+    'Of famed Ikshváku's line shall spring
+    ('Twas thus he spoke) a pious king,
+    Named Daśaratha, good and great,
+    True to his word and fortunate.
+    He with the Angas' mighty lord
+    Shall ever live in sweet accord,
+    And his a daughter fair shall be,
+    Śántá of happy destiny.
+    But Lomapád, the Angas' chief,
+    Still pining in his childless grief,
+    To Daśaratha thus shall say:--
+    "Give me thy daughter, friend, I pray,
+    Thy Śántá of the tranquil mind,
+    The noblest one of womankind."
+
+    The father, swift to feel for woe,
+    Shall on his friend his child bestow;
+    And he shall take her and depart
+    To his own town with joyous heart.
+    The maiden home in triumph led,
+    To Rishyaśring the King shall wed.
+    And he with loving joy and pride
+    Shall take her for his honored bride.
+    And Daśaratha to a rite
+    That best of Bráhmans shall invite
+    With supplicating prayer
+    To celebrate the sacrifice
+    To win him sons and Paradise,
+    That he will fain prepare.
+    From him the lord of men at length
+    The boon he seeks shall gain,
+    And see four sons of boundless strength
+    His royal line maintain,
+    Thus did the godlike saint of old
+    The will of fate declare,
+    And all that should befall unfold
+    Amid the sages there.
+    O Prince, supreme of men, go thou,
+    Consult thy holy guide,
+    And win, to aid thee in thy vow,
+    This Bráhman to thy side."
+
+    Sumantra's counsel, wise and good,
+    King Daśaratha heard,
+    Then by Vaśishtha's side he stood
+    And thus with him conferred:--
+    "Sumantra counsels thus:--do thou
+    My priestly guide, the plan allow."
+    Vaśishtha gave his glad consent,
+    And forth the happy monarch went
+    With lords and servants on the road
+    That led to Rishyaśring's abode.
+    Forests and rivers duly past,
+    He reached the distant town at last--
+    Of Lomapád the Angas' King,
+    And entered it with welcoming.
+    On through the crowded streets he came,
+    And, radiant as the kindled flame,
+    He saw within the monarch's house
+    The hermit's son, most glorious.
+    There Lomapád, with joyful breast,
+    To him all honor paid,
+    For friendship for his royal guest
+    His faithful bosom swayed.
+    Thus entertained with utmost care
+    Seven days, or eight, he tarried there,
+    And then that best of men thus broke
+    His purpose to the King, and spoke:--
+
+    "O King of men, mine ancient friend,
+    (Thus Daśaratha prayed),
+    Thy Śántá with her husband send
+    My sacrifice to aid."
+    Said he who ruled the Angas, "Yea,"
+    And his consent was won:--
+    And then at once he turned away
+    To warn the hermit's son.
+    He told him of their ties beyond
+    Their old affection's faithful bond:--
+    "This King," he said, "from days of old
+    A well beloved friend I hold.
+    To me this pearl of dames he gave
+    From childless woe mine age to save,
+    The daughter whom he loved so much,
+    Moved by compassion's gentle touch.
+    In him thy Śántá's father see:--
+    As I am, even so is he.
+    For sons the childless monarch yearns,
+    To thee alone for help he turns.
+    Go thou, the sacred rite ordain
+    To win the sons he prays to gain:--
+    Go, with thy wife thy succor lend,
+    And give his vows a blissful end."
+
+    The hermit's son with quick accord
+    Obeyed the Angas' mighty lord,
+    And with fair Śántá at his side
+    To Daśaratha's city hied.
+    Each king, with suppliant hands upheld,
+    Gazed on the other's face:--
+    And then by mutual love impelled
+    Met in a close embrace.
+    Then Daśaratha's thoughtful care,
+    Before he parted thence,
+    Bade trusty servants homeward bear
+    The glad intelligence:--
+    "Let all the town be bright and gay,
+    With burning incense sweet;
+    Let banners wave, and water lay
+    The dust in every street."
+    Glad were the citizens to learn
+    The tidings of their lord's return,
+    And through the city every man
+    Obediently his task began.
+    And fair and bright Ayodhyá showed,
+    As following his guest he rode
+    Through the full streets, where shell and drum
+    Proclaimed aloud the King was come.
+    And all the people with delight
+    Kept gazing on their king,
+    Attended by that youth so bright,
+    The glorious Rishyaśring.
+    When to his home the King had brought
+    The hermit's saintly son,
+    He deemed that all his task was wrought,
+    And all he prayed for won.
+    And lords who saw the stranger dame
+    So beautiful to view,
+    Rejoiced within their hearts, and came
+    And paid her honor, too.
+    There Rishyaśring passed blissful days,
+    Graced like the King with love and praise,
+    And shone in glorious light with her,
+    Sweet Śántá for his minister,
+    As Brahmá's son Vaśishtha, he
+    Who wedded Saint Arundhatí.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XI
+
+THE SACRIFICE DECREED
+
+    The Dewy Season came and went;
+    The spring returned again--
+    Then would the King, with mind intent,
+    His sacrifice ordain.
+    He came to Rishyaśring, and bowed
+    To him of look divine,
+    And bade him aid his offering vowed
+    For heirs, to save his line.
+    Nor would the youth his aid deny,
+    He spake the monarch fair,
+    And prayed him for that rite so high
+    All requisites prepare.
+    The King to wise Sumantra cried
+    Who stood aye ready near;
+    "Go summon quick, each holy guide,
+    To counsel and to hear,"
+    Obedient to his lord's behest
+    Away Sumantra sped,
+    And brought Vaśishtha and the rest,
+    In Scripture deeply read.
+    Suyajńa, Vámadeva came,
+    Jáváli, Kaśyap's son,
+    And old Vaśishtha, dear to fame,
+    Obedient, every one.
+    King Daśaratha met them there
+    And duly honored each,
+    And spoke in pleasant words his fair
+    And salutary speech:--
+    "In childless longing doomed to pine,
+    No happiness, O lords, is mine.
+    So have I for this cause decreed
+    To slay the sacrificial steed.
+    Fain would I pay that offering high
+    Wherein the horse is doomed to die,
+    With Rishyaśring his aid to lend,
+    And with your glory to befriend."
+
+    With loud applause each holy man
+    Received his speech, approved the plan,
+    And, by the wise Vaśishtha led,
+    Gave praises to the King, and said:--
+    "The sons thou cravest shalt thou see,
+    Of fairest glory, born to thee,
+    Whose holy feelings bid thee take
+    This righteous course for offspring's sake."
+    Cheered by the ready praise of those
+    Whose aid he sought, his spirits rose--
+    And thus the King his speech renewed
+    With looks of joy and gratitude:--
+    "Let what the coming rites require
+    Be ready, as the priests desire,
+    And let the horse, ordained to bleed,
+    With fitting guard and priest, be freed.
+    Yonder on Sarjú's northern side
+    The sacrificial ground provide;
+    And let the saving rites, that nought
+    Ill-omened may occur, be wrought.
+    The offering I announce to-day
+    Each lord of earth may claim to pay,
+    Provided that his care can guard
+    The holy rite by flaws unmarred.
+    For wandering fiends, whose watchful spite
+    Waits eagerly to spoil each rite--
+    Hunting with keenest eye detect
+    The slightest slip, the least neglect;
+    And when the sacred work is crossed
+    The workman is that moment lost.
+    Let preparation due be made,
+    Your powers the charge can meet,
+    That so the noble rite be paid
+    In every point complete."
+    And all the Bráhmans answered, "Yea,"
+    His mandate honoring,
+    And gladly promised to obey
+    The order of the King.
+    They cried with voices raised aloud:--
+    "Success attend thine aim!"
+    Then bade farewell, and lowly bowed,
+    And hastened whence they came.
+    King Daśaratha went within,
+    His well-loved wives to see--
+    And said: "Your lustral rites begin,
+    For these shall prosper me.
+    A glorious offering I prepare
+    That precious fruit of sons may bear."
+    Their lily faces brightened fast
+    Those pleasant words to hear,
+    As lilies, when the winter's past,
+    In lovelier hues appear.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XII
+
+THE SACRIFICE BEGUN
+
+    Again the spring with genial heat
+    Returning made the year complete.
+    To win him sons, without delay
+    His vow the King resolved to pay--
+    And to Vaśishtha, saintly man,
+    In modest words this speech began:--
+    "Prepare the rite with all things fit
+    As is ordained in Holy Writ,
+    And keep with utmost care afar
+    Whate'er its sacred forms might mar.
+    Thou art, my lord, my trustiest guide,
+    Kind-hearted, and my friend beside;
+    So is it meet thou undertake
+    This heavy task for duty's sake."
+
+    Then he, of twice-born men the best,
+    His glad assent at once expressed:--
+    "Fain will I do whatever may be
+    Desired, O honored King, by thee."
+    To ancient priests he spoke, who, trained
+    In holy rites, deep skill had gained:--
+    "Here guards be stationed, good and sage,
+    Religious men of trusted age.
+    And various workmen send and call,
+    Who frame the door and build the wall--
+    With men of every art and trade,
+    Who read the stars and ply the spade,
+    And mimes and minstrels hither bring,
+    And damsels trained to dance and sing."
+    Then to the learned men he said,
+    In many a page of Scripture read:--
+    "Be yours each rite performed to see
+    According to the King's decree.
+    And stranger Bráhmans quickly call
+    To this great rite that welcomes all.
+    Pavilions for the princes, decked
+    With art and ornament, erect,
+    And handsome booths by thousands made
+    The Bráhman visitors to shade--
+    Arranged in order side by side,
+    With meat and drink and all supplied.
+    And ample stables we shall need
+    For many an elephant and steed--
+    And chambers where the men may lie,
+    And vast apartments, broad and high,
+    Fit to receive the countless bands
+    Of warriors come from distant lands.
+    For our own people too provide
+    Sufficient tents, extended wide,
+    And stores of meat and drink prepare,
+    And all that can be needed there.
+    And food in plenty must be found
+    For guests from all the country round.
+    Of various viands presents make,
+    For honor, not for pity's sake,
+    That fit regard and worship be
+    Paid to each caste in due degree.
+    And let not wish or wrath excite
+    Your hearts the meanest guest to slight;
+    But still observe with special grace
+    Those who obtain the foremost place,
+    Whether for happier skill in art
+    Or bearing in the rite their part
+    Do you, I pray, with friendly mind
+    Perform the task to you assigned,
+    And work the rite, as bids the law,
+    Without omission, slip, or flaw."
+
+    They answered: "As thou seest fit
+    So will we do and nought omit."
+    The sage Vaśishtha then addressed
+    Sumantra, called at his behest:--
+    "The princes of the earth invite,
+    And famous lords who guard the rite,
+    Priest, Warrior, Merchant, lowly thrall,
+    In countless thousands summon all.
+    Where'er their home be, far or near,
+    Gather the good with honor here.
+    And Janak, whose imperial sway
+    The men of Mithilá obey,
+    The firm of vow, the dread of foes,
+    Who all the lore of Scripture knows,
+    Invite him here with honor high,
+    King Daśaratha's old ally.
+    And Káśi's lord of gentle speech,
+    Who finds a pleasant word for each--
+    In length of days our monarch's peer,
+    Illustrious King, invite him here.
+    The father of our ruler's bride,
+    Known for his virtues far and wide,
+    The King whom Kekaya's realms obey,
+    Him with his son invite, I pray.
+    And Lomapád, the Angas King,
+    True to his vows and godlike, bring.
+    Far be thine invitations sent
+    To west and south and orient.
+    Call those who rule Suráshtra's land,
+    Suvíra's realm and Sindhu's strand,
+    And all the kings of earth beside
+    In friendship's bonds with us allied:--
+    Invite them all to hasten in
+    With retinue and kith and kin."
+    Vaśishtha's speech without delay
+    Sumantra bent him to obey,
+    And sent his trusty envoys forth
+    Eastward and westward, south and north.
+    Obedient to the saint's request
+    Himself he hurried forth, and pressed
+    Each nobler chief and lord and king
+    To hasten to the gathering.
+    Before the saint Vaśishtha stood
+    All those who wrought with stone and wood,
+    And showed the work which every one
+    In furtherance of the rite had done.
+    Rejoiced their ready zeal to see,
+    Thus to the craftsmen all said he:--
+    "I charge ye, masters, see to this,
+    That there be nothing done amiss.
+    And this, I pray, in mind be borne,
+    That not one gift ye give in scorn;
+    Whenever scorn a gift attends
+    Great sin is his who thus offends."
+
+    And now some days and nights had passed,
+    And Kings began to gather fast,
+    And precious gems in liberal store
+    As gifts to Daśaratha bore.
+    Then joy thrilled through Vaśishtha's breast
+    As thus the monarch he addressed:--
+    "Obedient to thy high decree
+    The Kings, my lord, are come to thee.
+    And it has been my care to greet
+    And honor all with reverence meet.
+    Thy servants' task is ended quite,
+    And all is ready for the rite.
+    Come forth then to the sacred ground
+    Where all in order will be found."
+    Then Rishyaśring confirmed the tale:--
+    Nor did their words to move him fail.
+    The stars propitious influence lent
+    When forth the world's great ruler went.
+    Then by the sage Vaśishtha led,
+    The priest began to speed
+    Those glorious rites wherein is shed
+    The lifeblood of the steed.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XIII
+
+THE SACRIFICE FINISHED
+
+    The circling year had filled its course,
+    And back was brought the wandering horse:--
+    Then upon Sarjú's northern strand
+    Began the rite the King had planned.
+    With Rishyaśring the forms to guide,
+    The Bráhmans to their task applied,
+    At that great offering of the steed
+    Their lofty-minded King decreed.
+    The priests, who all the Scripture knew,
+    Performed their part in order due,
+    And circled round in solemn train
+    As precepts of the law ordain.
+    Pravargya rites were duly sped:--
+    For Upasads the flames were fed.
+    Then from the plant the juice was squeezed,
+    And those high saints, with minds well pleased,
+    Performed the mystic rites begun
+    With bathing ere the rise of sun.
+    They gave the portion, Indra's claim,
+    And hymned the King whom none can blame.
+    The mid-day bathing followed next,
+    Observed as bids the holy text.
+    Then the good priests with utmost care,
+    In form that Scripture's rules declare,
+    For the third time pure water shed
+    On high-souled Daśaratha's head.
+    Then Rishyaśring and all the rest
+    To Indra and the Gods addressed
+    Their sweet-toned hymn of praise and prayer,
+    And called them in the rite to share.
+    With sweetest song and hymn intoned
+    They gave the Gods in heaven enthroned,
+    As duty bids, the gifts they claim,
+    The holy oil that feeds the flame.
+    And many an offering there was paid,
+    And not one slip in all was made.
+    For with most careful heed they saw
+    That all was done by Veda law.
+    None, all those days, was seen oppressed
+    By hunger or by toil distressed.
+    Why speak of human kind? No beast
+    Was there that lacked an ample feast.
+    For there was store for all who came,
+    For orphan child and lonely dame;
+    The old and young were well supplied,
+    The poor and hungry satisfied.
+    Throughout the day ascetics fed,
+    And those who roam to beg their bread:--
+    While all around the cry was still,
+    "Give forth, give forth," and "Eat your fill."
+    "Give forth with liberal hand the meal,
+    And various robes in largess deal."
+
+    Urged by these cries on every side
+    Unweariedly their task they plied,
+    And heaps of food like hills in size
+    In boundless plenty met the eyes:--
+    And lakes of sauce, each day renewed,
+    Refreshed the weary multitude.
+    And strangers there from distant lands,
+    And women folk in crowded bands
+    The best of food and drink obtained
+    At the great rite the King ordained.
+    Apart from all, the Bráhmans there,
+    Thousands on thousands, took their share
+    Of various dainties sweet to taste,
+    On plates of gold and silver placed--
+    All ready set, as, when they willed,
+    The twice-born men their places filled.
+    And servants in fair garments dressed
+    Waited upon each Bráhman guest.
+
+    Of cheerful mind and mien were they,
+    With gold and jewelled ear-rings gay.
+    The best of Bráhmans praised the fare
+    Of countless sorts, of flavor rare--
+    And thus to Raghu's son they cried:--
+    "We bless thee, and are satisfied."
+    Between the rites some Bráhmans spent
+    The time in learned argument,
+    With ready flow of speech, sedate,
+    And keen to vanquish in debate.
+    There day by day the holy train
+    Performed all rites as rules ordain.
+    No priest in all that host was found
+    But kept the vows that held him bound;
+    None, but the holy Vedas knew,
+    And all their sixfold science too.
+    No Bráhman there was found unfit
+    To speak with eloquence and wit.
+
+    And now the appointed time came near
+    The sacrificial posts to rear.
+    They brought them, and prepared to fix
+    Of Bel and Khádir six and six;
+    Six, made of the Paláśa-tree,
+    Of Fig-wood one, apart to be--
+    Of Sleshmát and of Devadár
+    One column each, the mightiest far:--
+    So thick the two the arms of man
+    Their ample girth would fail to span.
+    All these with utmost care were wrought
+    By hand of priests in Scripture taught,
+    And all with gold were gilded bright
+    To add new splendor to the rite;
+    Twenty-and-one those stakes in all,
+    Each one-and-twenty cubits tall:--
+    And one-and-twenty ribbons there
+    Hung on the pillars bright and fair.
+    Firm in the earth they stood at last,
+    Where cunning craftsmen fixed them fast;
+    And there unshaken each remained,
+    Octagonal and smoothly planed.
+
+    Then ribbons over all were hung,
+    And flowers and scent around them flung.
+    Thus decked they cast a glory forth
+    Like the great saints who star the north.
+    The sacrificial altar then
+    Was raised by skilful twice-born men--
+    In shape and figure to behold
+    An eagle with his wings of gold,
+    With twice nine pits and formed threefold.
+    Each for some special God, beside
+    The pillars were the victims tied;
+    The birds that roam the wood, the air,
+    The water, and the land were there,
+    And snakes and things of reptile birth,
+    And healing herbs that spring from earth:--
+    As texts prescribe, in Scripture found,
+    Three hundred victims there were bound.
+    The steed devoted to the host
+    Of Gods, the gem they honor most,
+    Was duly sprinkled. Then the Queen
+    Kauśalyá, with delighted mien,
+    With reverent steps around him paced,
+    And with sweet wreaths the victim graced;
+    Then with three swords in order due
+    She smote the steed with joy, and slew.
+    That night the queen, a son to gain,
+    With calm and steady heart was fain
+    By the dead charger's side to stay
+    From evening till the break of day.
+    Then came three priests, their care to lead
+    The other queens to touch the steed--
+    Upon Kauśalyá to attend,
+    Their company and aid to lend.
+    As by the horse she still reclined,
+    With happy mien and cheerful mind,
+    With Rishyaśring the twice-born came
+    And praised and blessed the royal dame.
+    The priest who well his duty knew,
+    And every sense could well subdue,
+    From out the bony chambers freed
+    And boiled the marrow of the steed.
+    Above the steam the monarch bent,
+    And, as he smelt the fragrant scent,
+    In time and order drove afar
+    All error, that his hopes could mar.
+    Then sixteen priests together came,
+    And cast into the sacred flame
+    The severed members of the horse,
+    Made ready all in ordered course.
+    On piles of holy Fig-tree raised
+    The meaner victims' bodies blazed:--
+    The steed, of all the creatures slain,
+    Alone required a pile of cane.
+    Three days, as is by law decreed,
+    Lasted that Offering of the Steed.
+    The Chatushtom began the rite,
+    And when the sun renewed his light,
+    The Ukthya followed--after came
+    The Atirátra's holy flame.
+    These were the rites, and many more,
+    Arranged by light of holy lore,
+    The Aptoryám of mighty power,
+    And, each performed in proper hour,
+    The Abhijit and Viśvajit
+    With every form and service fit;
+    And with the sacrifice at night
+    The Jyotishtom and Áyus rite.
+
+    The task was done, as laws prescribe:--
+    The monarch, glory of his tribe,
+    Bestowed the land in liberal grants
+    Upon the sacred ministrants.
+    He gave the region of the east,
+    His conquest, to the Hotri priest.
+    The west the celebrant obtained,
+    The south the priest presiding gained--
+    The northern region was the share
+    Of him who chanted forth the prayer.
+    Thus did each priest obtain his meed
+    At the great Slaughter of the Steed,
+    Ordained, the best of all to be,
+    By self-existent deity.
+
+    Ikshváku's son, with joyful mind,
+    This noble fee to each assigned--
+    But all the priests with one accord
+    Addressed that unpolluted lord:--
+    "'Tis thine alone to keep the whole
+    Of this broad earth in firm control.
+    No gift of lands from thee we seek,
+    To guard these realms our hands were weak.
+    On sacred lore our days are spent,
+    Let other gifts our wants content."
+
+    The chief of old Ikshváku's line
+    Gave them ten hundred thousand kine,
+    A hundred millions of fine gold,
+    The same in silver four times told.
+    But every priest in presence there
+    With one accord resigned his share.
+    To Saint Vaśishtha, high of soul,
+    And Rishyaśring they gave the whole.
+    That largess pleased those Bráhmans well,
+    Who bade the prince his wishes tell.
+    Then Daśaratha, mighty King,
+    Made answer thus to Rishyaśring:--
+    "O holy Hermit, of thy grace,
+    Vouchsafe the increase of my race."
+    He spoke; nor was his prayer denied--
+    The best of Bráhmans thus replied:--
+    "Four sons, O Monarch, shall be thine,
+    Upholders of thy royal line."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XIV
+
+RÁVAN DOOMED
+
+
+    The saint, well-read in holy lore,
+    Pondered awhile his answer o'er,
+    And thus again addressed the King,
+    His wandering thoughts regathering:--
+    "Another rite will I begin
+    Which shall the sons thou cravest win,
+    Where all things shall be duly sped
+    And first Atharva texts be read."
+
+    Then by Vibhándak's gentle son
+    Was that high sacrifice begun,
+    The King's advantage seeking still
+    And zealous to perform his will.
+    Now all the Gods had gathered there,
+    Each one for his allotted share--
+    Brahmá, the ruler of the sky,
+    Sthánu, Náráyan, Lord most high,
+    And holy Indra men might view
+    With Maruts for his retinue;
+    The heavenly chorister, and saint,
+    And spirit pure from earthly taint,
+    With one accord had sought the place
+    The high-souled monarch's rite to grace,
+    Then to the Gods who came to take
+    Their proper share, the hermit spake:--
+    "For you has Daśaratha slain
+    The votive steed, a son to gain;
+    Stern penance-rites the King has tried,
+    And in firm faith on you relied,
+    And now with undiminished care
+    A second rite would fain prepare.
+    But, O ye Gods, consent to grant
+    The longing of your supplicant.
+    For him beseeching hands I lift,
+    And pray you all to grant the gift,
+    That four fair sons of high renown
+    The offerings of the King may crown."
+    They to the hermit's son replied:--
+    "His longing shall be gratified.
+    For, Bráhman, in most high degree
+    We love the King and honor thee."
+
+    These words the Gods in answer said,
+    And vanished thence, by Indra led.
+    Thus to the Lord, the worlds who made,
+    The Immortals all assembled prayed:--
+    "O Brahmá, mighty by thy grace,
+    Rávan, who rules the giant race,
+    Torments us in his senseless pride,
+    And penance-loving saints beside.
+    For thou well pleased in days of old
+    Gavest the boon that makes him bold,
+    That God nor demon e'er should kill
+    His charmed life, for so thy will.
+    We, honoring that high behest,
+    Bear all his rage though sore distressed.
+    That lord of giants fierce and fell
+    Scourges the earth and heaven and hell.
+    Mad with thy boon, his impious rage
+    Smites saint and bard and God and sage.
+    The sun himself withholds his glow,
+    The wind in fear forbears to blow;
+    The fire restrains his wonted heat
+    Where stand the dreaded Rávan's feet,
+    And, necklaced with the wandering wave,
+    The sea before him fears to rave.
+    Kuvera's self in sad defeat
+    Is driven from his blissful seat.
+    We see, we feel the giant's might,
+    And woe comes o'er us and affright.
+    To thee, O Lord, thy suppliants pray
+    To find some cure this plague to stay."
+
+    Thus by the gathered Gods addressed
+    He pondered in his secret breast,
+    And said: "One only way I find
+    To slay this fiend of evil mind.
+    He prayed me once his life to guard
+    From demon, God, and heavenly bard,
+    And spirits of the earth and air,
+    And I consenting heard his prayer.
+    But the proud giant in his scorn
+    Recked not of man of woman born.
+    None else may take his life away,
+    But only man the fiend may slay."
+
+    The Gods, with Indra at their head,
+    Rejoiced to hear the words he said.
+    Then, crowned with glory like a flame,
+    Lord Vishnu to the council came;
+    His hands shell, mace, and discus bore,
+    And saffron were the robes he wore.
+    Riding his eagle through the crowd,
+    As the sun rides upon a cloud,
+    With bracelets of fine gold, he came,
+    Loud welcomed by the Gods' acclaim.
+    His praise they sang with one consent,
+    And cried, in lowly reverence bent:--
+    "O Lord whose hand fierce Madhu slew,
+    Be thou our refuge, firm and true;
+    Friend of the suffering worlds art thou,
+    We pray thee help thy suppliants now."
+    Then Vishnu spake: "Ye Gods, declare,
+    What may I do to grant your prayer?"
+
+    "King Daśaratha," thus cried they,
+    "Fervent in penance many a day,
+    The sacrificial steed has slain,
+    Longing for sons, but all in vain.
+    Now, at the cry of us forlorn,
+    Incarnate as his seed be born.
+    Three queens has he--each lovely dame
+    Like Beauty, Modesty, or Fame.
+    Divide thyself in four, and be
+    His offspring by these noble three.
+    Man's nature take, and slay in fight
+    Rávan who laughs at heavenly might--
+    This common scourge, this rankling thorn
+    Whom the three worlds too long have borne.
+    For Rávan, in the senseless pride
+    Of might unequalled, has defied
+    The host of heaven, and plagues with woe
+    Angel and bard and saint below,
+    Crushing each spirit and each maid
+    Who plays in Nandan's heavenly shade.
+    O conquering Lord, to thee we bow;
+    Our surest hope and trust art thou.
+    Regard the world of men below,
+    And slay the God's tremendous foe."
+
+    When thus the suppliant Gods had prayed,
+    His wise reply Náráyan made:--
+    "What task demands my presence there,
+    And when this dread, ye Gods declare."
+    The Gods replied: "We fear, O Lord,
+    Fierce Rávan, ravener abhorred.
+    Be thine the glorious task, we pray,
+    In human form this fiend to slay.
+    By thee of all the Blest alone
+    This sinner may be overthrown.
+    He gained by penance long and dire
+    The favor of the mighty Sire.
+    Then He who every gift bestows
+    Guarded the fiend from heavenly foes,
+    And gave a pledge his life that kept
+    From all things living, man except.
+    On him thus armed no other foe
+    Than man may deal the deadly blow.
+    Assume, O King, a mortal birth,
+    And strike the demon to the earth."
+
+    Then Vishnu, God of Gods, the Lord
+    Supreme by all the worlds adored,
+    To Brahmá and the suppliants spake:--
+    "Dismiss your fear: for your dear sake
+    In battle will I smite him dead,
+    The cruel fiend, the Immortal's dread.
+    And lords and ministers and all
+    His kith and kin with him shall fall.
+    Then, in the world of mortal men,
+    Ten thousand years and hundreds ten
+    I as a human King will reign,
+    And guard the earth as my domain."
+    God, saint, and nymph, and minstrel throng
+    With heavenly voices raised their song
+    In hymns of triumph to the God
+    Whose conquering feet on Madhu trod:---
+
+    "Champion of Gods, as man appear,
+    This cruel Rávan slay,
+    The thorn that saints and hermits fear,
+    The plague that none can stay.
+    In savage fury uncontrolled
+    His pride forever grows--
+    He dares the Lord of Gods to hold
+    Among his deadly foes."
+
+
+
+CANTO XV
+
+THE NECTAR
+
+    When wisest Vishnu thus had given
+    His promise to the Gods of heaven,
+    He pondered in his secret mind
+    A suited place of birth to find.
+    Then he decreed, the lotus-eyed,
+    In four his being to divide,
+    And Daśaratha, gracious King,
+    He chose as sire from whom to spring.
+    That childless prince, of high renown,
+    Who smote in war his foemen down,
+    At that same time with utmost care
+    Prepared the rite that wins an heir.
+    Then Vishnu, fain on earth to dwell,
+    Bade the Almighty Sire farewell,
+    And vanished while a reverent crowd
+    Of Gods and saints in worship bowed.
+
+    The monarch watched the sacred rite,
+    When a vast form of awful might,
+    Of matchless splendor, strength and size
+    Was manifest before his eyes.
+    From forth the sacrificial flame,
+    Dark, robed in red, the being came.
+    His voice was drumlike, loud and low,
+    His face suffused with rosy glow.
+    Like a huge lion's mane appeared
+    The long locks of his hair and beard.
+    He shone with many a lucky sign,
+    And many an ornament divine;
+    A towering mountain in his height,
+    A tiger in his gait and might.
+
+    No precious mine more rich could be,
+    No burning flame more bright than he.
+    His arms embraced in loving hold,
+    Like a dear wife, a vase of gold
+    Whose silver lining held a draught
+    Of nectar as in heaven is quaffed--
+    A vase so vast, so bright to view,
+    They scarce could count the vision true.
+    Upon the King his eyes he bent,
+    And said: "The Lord of life has sent
+    His servant down, O Prince, to be
+    A messenger from heaven to thee."
+    The King with all his nobles by
+    Raised reverent hands and made reply:--
+    "Welcome, O glorious being! Say
+    How can my care thy grace repay,"
+    Envoy of Him whom all adore,
+    Thus to the King he spake once more:--
+    "The Gods accept thy worship--they
+    Give thee the blessed fruit to-day.
+    Approach and take, O glorious King,
+    This heavenly nectar which I bring,
+    For it shall give thee sons and wealth,
+    And bless thee with a store of health.
+    Give it to those fair queens of thine,
+    And bid them quaff the drink divine--
+    And they the princely sons shall bear
+    Long sought by sacrifice and prayer."
+
+    "Yea, O my lord," the monarch said,
+    And took the vase upon his head,
+    The gift of Gods, of fine gold wrought,
+    With store of heavenly liquor fraught.
+    He honored, filled with transport new,
+    That wondrous being, fair to view,
+    As round the envoy of the God
+    With reverential steps he trod.
+    His errand done, that form of light
+    Arose and vanished from the sight.
+    High rapture filled the monarch's soul,
+    Possessed of that celestial bowl,
+    As when a man by want distressed
+    With unexpected wealth is blest.
+    And rays of transport seemed to fall
+    Illuminating bower and hall,
+    As when the autumn moon rides high,
+    And floods with lovely light the sky.
+    Quick to the ladies' bower he sped,
+    And thus to Queen Kauśalyá said:--
+    "This genial nectar take and quaff,"
+    He spoke, and gave the lady half.
+    Part of the nectar that remained
+    Sumitrá from his hand obtained.
+    He gave, to make her fruitful too,
+    Kaikeyí half the residue.
+    A portion yet remaining there,
+    He paused awhile to think,
+    Then gave Sumitrá, with her share,
+    The remnant of the drink.
+    Thus on each queen of those fair three
+    A part the King bestowed,
+    And with sweet hope a child to see
+    Their yearning bosoms glowed.
+    The heavenly bowl the King supplied
+    Their longing souls relieved,
+    And soon, with rapture and with pride,
+    Each royal dame conceived.
+    He gazed upon each lady's face,
+    And triumphed as he gazed.
+    As Indra in his royal place
+    By Gods and spirits praised.
+
+
+
+CANTO XVI
+
+THE VANARS
+
+    When Vishnu thus had gone on earth,
+    From the great King to take his birth,
+    The self-existent Lord of all
+    Addressed the Gods who heard his call:--
+    "For Vishnu's sake, the strong and true,
+    Who seeks the good of all of you,
+    Make helps, in war to lend him aid,
+    In forms that change at will, arrayed,
+    Of wizard skill and hero might,
+    Outstrippers of the wind in flight,
+    Skilled in the arts of counsel, wise,
+    And Vishnu's peers in bold emprise;
+    With heavenly arts and prudence fraught,
+    By no devices to be caught;
+    Skilled in all weapons' lore and use
+    As they who drink the immortal juice.
+    And let the nymphs supreme in grace,
+    And maidens of the minstrel race,
+    Monkeys and snakes, and those who rove
+    Free spirits of the hill and grove,
+    And wandering Daughters of the Air,
+    In monkey form brave children bear.
+    So erst the lord of bears I shaped,
+    Born from my mouth as wide I gaped."
+
+    Thus by the mighty Sire addressed
+    They all obeyed his high behest,
+    And thus begot in countless swarms
+    Brave sons disguised in sylvan forms.
+    Each God, each sage became a sire,
+    Each minstrel of the heavenly choir.
+    Each faun, of children strong and good
+    Whose feet should roam the hill and wood.
+    Snakes, bards, and spirits, serpents bold
+    Had sons too numerous to be told.
+    Báli, the woodland hosts who led,
+    High as Mahendra's lofty head,
+    Was Indra's child. That noblest fire,
+    The Sun, was great Sugríva's sire.
+    Tára, the mighty monkey, he
+    Was offspring of Vrihaspati--
+    Tára the matchless chieftain, boast
+    For wisdom of the Vánar host.
+    Of Gandhamádan brave and bold
+    The father was the Lord of Gold.
+    Nala the mighty, dear to fame,
+    Of skilful Viśvakarmá came.
+    From Agni, Níla bright as flame,
+    Who in his splendor, might, and worth,
+    Surpassed the sire who gave him birth.
+    The heavenly Aśvins, swift and fair,
+    Were fathers of a noble pair,
+    Who, Dwivida and Mainda named,
+    For beauty like their sires were famed.
+    Varun was father of Sushen,
+    Of Śarabh, he who sends the rain.
+    Hanumán, best of monkey kind,
+    Was son of him who breathes the wind--
+    Like thunderbolt in frame was he,
+    And swift as Garud's self could flee.
+    These thousands did the Gods create
+    Endowed with might that none could mate,
+    In monkey forms that changed at will--
+    So strong their wish the fiend to kill.
+    In mountain size, like lions thewed,
+    Up-sprang the wondrous multitude,
+    Auxiliar hosts in every shape,
+    Monkey and bear and highland ape.
+    In each the strength, the might, the mien
+    Of his own parent God were seen.
+    Some chiefs of Vánar mothers came,
+    Some of she-bear and minstrel dame,
+    Skilled in all arms in battle's shock,
+    The brandished tree, the loosened rock;
+    And prompt, should other weapons fail,
+    To fight and slay with tooth and nail.
+    Their strength could shake the hills amain.
+    And rend the rooted trees in twain,
+    Disturb with their impetuous sweep
+    The Rivers' Lord, the Ocean deep,
+    Rend with their feet the seated ground,
+    And pass wide floods with airy bound--
+    Or forcing through the sky their way
+    The very clouds by force could stay.
+    Mad elephants that wander through
+    The forest wilds, could they subdue,
+    And with their furious shout could scare
+    Dead upon earth the birds of air.
+    So were the sylvan chieftains formed;
+    Thousands on thousands still they swarmed.
+    These were the leaders honored most,
+    The captains of the Vánar host,
+    And to each lord and chief and guide
+    Was monkey offspring born beside.
+    Then by the bears' great monarch stood
+    The other roamers of the wood,
+    And turned, their pathless homes to seek,
+    To forest and to mountain peak.
+    The leaders of the monkey band
+    By the two brothers took their stand,
+    Sugríva, offspring of the Sun,
+    And Báli, Indra's mighty one.
+    They both endowed with Garud's might,
+    And skilled in all the arts of fight,
+    Wandered in arms the forest through,
+    And lions, snakes, and tigers, slew.
+    But every monkey, ape, and bear
+    Ever was Báli's special care;
+    With his vast strength and mighty arm
+    He kept them from all scathe and harm.
+    And so the earth with hill, wood, seas,
+    Was filled with mighty ones like these--
+    Of various shape and race and kind,
+    With proper homes to each assigned.
+    With Ráma's champions fierce and strong
+    The earth was overspread,
+    High as the hills and clouds, a throng
+    With bodies vast and dread.
+
+
+
+CANTO XVII
+
+RISHYASRING'S RETURN
+
+    Now when the high-souled monarch's rite,
+    The Aśvamedh, was finished quite,
+    Their sacrificial dues obtained,
+    The Gods their heavenly homes regained.
+    The lofty-minded saints withdrew,
+    Each to his place, with honor due,
+    And kings and chieftains, one and all,
+    Who came to grace the festival.
+    And Daśaratha, ere they went,
+    Addressed them thus benevolent:--
+    "Now may you, each with joyful heart,
+    To your own realms, O Kings, depart.
+    Peace and good luck attend you there,
+    And blessing, is my friendly prayer;
+    Let cares of state each mind engage
+    To guard his royal heritage.
+    A monarch from his throne expelled
+    No better than the dead is held.
+    So he who cares for power and might
+    Must guard his realm and royal right.
+    Such care a meed in heaven will bring
+    Better than rites and offering.
+    Such care a king his country owes
+    As man upon himself bestows,
+    When for his body he provides
+    Raiment and every need besides.
+    For future days should kings foresee,
+    And keep the present error-free."
+    Thus did the King the kings exhort--
+    They heard, and turned them from the court,
+    And, each to each in friendship bound,
+    Went forth to all the realms around.
+    The rites were o'er, the guests were sped,
+    The train the best of Bráhmans led--
+    In which the King with joyful soul,
+    With his dear wives, and with the whole
+    Of his imperial host and train
+    Of cars and servants turned again,
+    And, as a monarch dear to fame,
+    Within his royal city came.
+
+    Next, Rishyaśring, well-honored sage,
+    And Śántá, sought their hermitage.
+    The King himself, of prudent mind,
+    Attended him, with troops behind,
+    And all her men the town outpoured
+    With Saint Vaśishtha and their lord.
+    High mounted on a car of state,
+    O'ercanopied fair Śántá sate,
+    Drawn by white oxen, while a band
+    Of servants marched on either hand.
+    Great gifts of countless price she bore,
+    With sheep and goats and gems in store.
+    Like Beauty's self the lady shone
+    With all the jewels she had on,
+    As, happy in her sweet content,
+    Peerless amid the fair she went.
+    Not Queen Paulomí's self could be
+    More loving to her lord than she.
+    She who had lived in happy ease,
+    Honored with all her heart could please,
+    While dames and kinsfolk ever vied
+    To see her wishes gratified--
+    Soon as she knew her husband's will
+    Again to seek the forest, still
+    Was ready for the hermit's cot,
+    Nor murmured at her altered lot.
+    The King attended to the wild
+    That hermit and his own dear child,
+    And in the centre of a throng
+    Of noble courtiers rode along.
+    The sage's son had let prepare
+    A lodge within the wood, and there
+    Awhile they lingered blithe and gay,
+    Then, duly honored, went their way.
+    The glorious hermit Rishyaśring
+    Drew near and thus besought the King:--
+    "Return, my honored lord, I pray,
+    Return, upon thy homeward way."
+    The monarch, with the waiting crowd,
+    Lifted his voice and wept aloud,
+    And with eyes dripping still to each
+    Of his good queens he spake this speech:--
+    "Kauśalyá and Sumitrá dear,
+    And thou, my sweet Kaikeyí, hear--
+    All upon Śántá feast your gaze,
+    The last time for a length of days."
+    To 'Śántá's side the ladies leapt,
+    And hung about her neck and wept,
+    And cried, "O, happy be the life
+    Of this great Bráhman and his wife.
+    The Wind, the Fire, the Moon on high,
+    The Earth, the Streams, the circling Sky,
+    Preserve thee in the wood, true spouse,
+    Devoted to thy husband's vows.
+    And O dear Śántá, ne'er neglect
+    To pay the dues of meek respect
+    To the great saint, thy husband's sire,
+    With all observance and with fire.
+    And, sweet one, pure of spot and blame.
+    Forget not thou thy husband's claim;
+    In every change, in good and ill,
+    Let thy sweet words delight him still,
+    And let thy worship constant be--
+    Her lord is woman's deity.
+    To learn thy welfare, dearest friend,
+    The King will many a Bráhman send.
+    Let happy thoughts thy spirit cheer,
+    And be not troubled, daughter dear."
+
+    These soothing words the ladies said,
+    And pressed their lips upon her head,
+    Each gave with sighs her last adieu,
+    Then at the King's command withdrew.
+    The King around the hermit went
+    With circling footsteps reverent,
+    And placed at Rishyaśring's command
+    Some soldiers of his royal band.
+    The Bráhman bowed in turn and cried,
+    "May fortune never leave thy side.
+    O mighty King, with justice reign,
+    And still thy people's love retain."
+    He spoke, and turned away his face,
+    And, as the hermit went,
+    The monarch, rooted to the place,
+    Pursued with eyes intent.
+    But when the sage had passed from view
+    King Daśaratha turned him too,
+    Still fixing on his friend each thought,
+    With such deep love his breast was fraught.
+    Amid his people's loud acclaim
+    Home to his royal seat he came,
+    And lived delighted there--
+    Expecting when each queenly dame,
+    Upholder of his ancient fame,
+    Her promised son should bear.
+    The glorious sage his way pursued
+    Till close before his eyes he viewed
+    Sweet Champá, Lomapád's fair town,
+    Wreathed with her Champac's leafy crown.
+    Soon as the saint's approach he knew,
+    The King, to yield him honor due,
+    Went forth to meet him with a band
+    Of priests and nobles of the land:--
+    "Hail, Sage," he cried, "O joy to me!
+    What bliss it is, my lord, to see
+    Thee with thy wife and all thy train
+    Returning to my town again.
+    Thy father, honored Sage, is well,
+    Who hither from his woodland cell
+    Has sent full many a messenger
+    For tidings both of thee and her."
+    Then joyfully, for due respect,
+    The monarch bade the town be decked.
+    The King and Rishyaśring elate
+    Entered the royal city's gate--
+    In front the chaplain rode.
+    Then, loved and honored with all care
+    By monarch and by courtier, there
+    The glorious saint abode.
+
+
+
+CANTO XVIII
+
+RISHYAŚRING'S DEPARTURE
+
+    The monarch called a Bráhman near
+    And said, "Now speed away
+    To Kaśyap's son, the mighty seer,
+    And with all reverence say--
+    The holy child he holds so dear,
+    The hermit of the noble mind,
+    Whose equal it were hard to find,
+    Returned, is dwelling here.
+    Go, and instead of me do thou
+    Before that best of hermits bow,
+    That still he may for his dear son,
+    Show me the favor I have won."
+    Soon as the King these words had said,
+    To Kaśyap's son the Bráhman sped.
+    Before the hermit low he bent
+    And did obeisance, reverent;
+    Then with meek words his grace to crave
+    The message of his lord he gave:--
+    "The high-souled father of his bride
+    Had called thy son his rites to guide--
+    Those rites are o'er, the steed is slain;
+    Thy noble child is come again."
+    Soon as the saint that speech had heard
+    His spirit with desire was stirred
+    To seek the city of the King
+    And to his cot his son to bring.
+    With young disciples at his side
+    Forth on his way the hermit hied,
+    While peasants from their hamlets ran
+    To reverence the holy man.
+    Each with his little gift of food,
+    Forth came the village multitude,
+    And, as they humbly bowed the head,
+    "What may we do for thee?" they said.
+    Then he, of Bráhmans first and best,
+    The gathered people thus addressed:--
+    "Now tell me, for I fain would know,
+    Why is it I am honored so?"
+    They to the high-souled saint replied:--
+    "Our ruler is with thee allied.
+    Our master's order we fulfil;
+    O Bráhman, let thy mind be still."
+
+    With joy the saintly hermit heard
+    Each pleasant and delightful word,
+    And poured a benediction down
+    On King and ministers and town.
+    Glad at the words of that high saint
+    Some servants hastened to acquaint
+    Their King, rejoicing to impart
+    The tidings that would cheer his heart.
+    Soon as the joyful tale he knew
+    To meet the saint the monarch flew,
+    The guest-gift in his hand he brought,
+    And bowed before him and besought:--
+    "This day by seeing thee I gain
+    Not to have lived my life in vain.
+    Now be not wroth with me, I pray,
+    Because I wiled thy son away."
+    The best of Bráhmans answer made:--
+    "Be not, great lord of Kings, afraid.
+    Thy virtues have not failed to win
+    My favor, O thou pure of sin."
+    Then in the front the saint was placed,
+    The King came next in joyous haste,
+    And with him entered his abode,
+    'Mid glad acclaim as on they rode.
+    To greet the sage the reverent crowd
+    Raised suppliant hands and humbly bowed.
+    Then from the palace many a dame
+    Following well-dressed Śántá came,
+    Stood by the mighty saint and cried:--
+    "See, honor's source, thy son's dear bride."
+    The saint, who every virtue knew,
+    His arms around his daughter threw,
+    And with a father's rapture pressed
+    The lady to his wondering breast.
+    Arising from the saint's embrace
+    She bowed her low before his face,
+    And then, with palm to palm applied,
+    Stood by her hermit father's side.
+    He for his son, as laws ordain,
+    Performed the rite that frees from stain,
+    And, honored by the wise and good,
+    With him departed to the wood.
+
+
+
+CANTO XIX
+
+THE BIRTH OF THE PRINCES
+
+    The seasons six, in rapid flight,
+    Had circled since that glorious rite.
+    Eleven months had passed away--
+    'Twas Chaitra's ninth returning day.
+    The moon within that mansion shone
+    Which Aditi looks so kindly on.
+    Raised to their apex in the sky
+    Five brilliant planets beamed on high.
+    Shone with the moon, in Cancer's sign,
+    Vrihaspati with light divine.
+    Kauśalyá bore an infant blest
+    With heavenly marks of grace impressed;
+    Ráma, the universe's lord,
+    A prince by all the worlds adored.
+    New glory Queen Kauśalyá won
+    Reflected from her splendid son.
+    So Aditi shone more and more,
+    The Mother of the Gods, when she
+    The King of the Immortals bore,
+    The thunder-wielding deity.
+    The lotus-eyed, the beauteous boy,
+    He came fierce Rávan to destroy;
+    From half of Vishnu's vigor born,
+    He came to help the worlds forlorn.
+    And Queen Kaikeyí bore a child
+    Of truest valor, Bharat styled,
+    With every princely virtue blest,
+    One-fourth of Vishnu manifest.
+    Sumitrá too a noble pair,
+    Called Lakshman and Śatrughna, bare,
+    Of high emprise, devoted, true,
+    Sharers in Vishnu's essence too.
+    'Neath Pushya's mansion, Mína's sign,
+    Was Bharat born, of soul benign.
+    The sun had reached the Crab at morn
+    When Queen Sumitrá's babes were born,
+    What time the moon had gone to make
+    His nightly dwelling with the Snake.
+    The high-souled monarch's consorts bore
+    At different times those glorious four,
+    Like to himself and virtuous, bright
+    As Proshthapadá's fourfold light.
+
+    Then danced the nymphs' celestial throng,
+    The minstrels raised their strain;
+    The drums of heaven pealed loud and long,
+    And flowers came down in rain.
+    Within Ayodhyá, blithe and gay,
+    All kept the joyous holiday.
+    The spacious square, the ample road
+    With mimes and dancers overflowed,
+    And with the voice of music rang
+    Where minstrels played and singers sang--
+    And shone, a wonder to behold,
+    With dazzling show of gems and gold.
+    Nor did the King his largess spare,
+    For minstrel, driver, bard, to share;
+    Much wealth the Bráhmans bore away,
+    And many thousand kine that day.
+    Soon as each babe was twelve days old
+    Twas time the naming rite to hold,
+    When Saint Vaśishtha, rapt with joy,
+    Assigned a name to every boy.
+    Ráma, to him the high-souled heir,
+    Bharat, to him Kaikeyí bare--
+    Of Queen Sumitrá one fair son
+    Was Lakshman, and Śatrughna one.
+    Ráma, his sire's supreme delight,
+    Like some proud banner cheered his sight,
+    And to all creatures seemed to be
+    The self-existent deity.
+    All heroes, versed in holy lore,
+    To all mankind great love they bore.
+    Fair stores of wisdom all possessed,
+    With princely graces all were blest.
+    But mid those youths of high descent,
+    With lordly light preëminent,
+    Like the full moon unclouded shone
+    Ráma, the world's dear paragon.
+    He best the elephant could guide,
+    Urge the fleet car, the charger ride--
+    A master he of bowman's skill,
+    Joying to do his father's will.
+    The world's delight and darling, he
+    Loved Lakshman best from infancy;
+    And Lakshman, lord of lofty fate,
+    Upon his elder joyed to wait,
+    Striving his second self to please
+    With friendship's sweet observances.
+    His limbs the hero ne'er would rest
+    Unless the couch his brother pressed;
+    Except beloved Ráma shared
+    He could not taste the meal prepared.
+    When Ráma, pride of Raghu's race,
+    Sprang on his steed to urge the chase,
+    Behind him Lakshman loved to go
+    And guard him with his trusty bow.
+    As Ráma was to Lakshman dear
+    More than his life and ever near,
+    So fond Śatrughna prized above
+    His very life his Bharat's love.
+    Illustrious heroes, nobly kind
+    In mutual love they all combined,
+    And gave their royal sire delight
+    With modest grace and warrior might;
+    Supported by the glorious four
+    Shone Daśaratha more and more,
+    As though, with every guardian God
+    Who keeps the land and skies,
+    The Father of all creatures trod
+    The earth before men's eyes.
+
+
+
+CANTO XX
+
+VIŚVÁMITRA'S VISIT
+
+    NOW Daśaratha's pious mind
+    Meet wedlock for his sons designed;
+    With priests and friends the King began
+    To counsel and prepare his plan.
+    Such thoughts engaged his bosom, when,
+    To see Ayodhyá's lord of men,
+    A mighty saint of glorious fame,
+    The hermit Viśvámitra came.
+    For evil fiends that roam by night
+    Disturbed him in each holy rite,
+    And in their strength and frantic rage
+    Assailed with witcheries the sage.
+    He came to seek the monarch's aid
+    To guard the rites the demons stayed,
+    Unable to a close to bring
+    One unpolluted offering.
+    Seeking the King in this dire strait
+    He said to those who kept the gate:--
+    "Haste, warders, to your master run,
+    And say that here stands Gádhi's son."
+    Soon as they heard the holy man,
+    To the King's chamber swift they ran
+    With minds disordered all, and spurred
+    To wildest zeal by what they heard.
+    On to the royal hall they sped,
+    There stood and lowly bowed the head,
+    And made the lord of men aware
+    That the great saint was waiting there.
+    The King with priest and peer arose
+    And ran the sage to meet,
+    As Indra from his palace goes
+    Lord Brahmá's self to greet.
+    When glowing with celestial light
+    The pious hermit was in sight,
+    The King, whose mien his transport showed,
+    The honored gift for guests bestowed.
+    Nor did the saint that gift despise,
+    Offered as holy texts advise;
+    He kindly asked the earth's great King
+    How all with him was prospering.
+    The son of Kusík bade him tell
+    If all in town and field were well,
+    All well with friends, and kith and kin,
+    And royal treasure stored within:--
+    "Do all thy neighbors own thy sway?
+    Thy foes confess thee yet?
+    Dost thou continue still to pay
+    To Gods and men each debt?"
+    Then he, of hermits first and best,
+    Vaśishtha with a smile addressed,
+    And asked him of his welfare too,
+    Showing him honor as was due.
+    Then with the sainted hermit all
+    Went joyous to the monarch's hall,
+    And sate them down by due degree,
+    Each one, of rank and dignity.
+    Joy filled the noble prince's breast
+    Who thus bespoke the honored guest:--
+    "As Amrit by a mortal found,
+    As rain upon the thirsty ground,
+    As to an heirless man a son
+    Born to him of his precious one--
+    As gain of what we sorely miss,
+    As sudden dawn of mighty bliss,
+    So is thy coming here to me--
+    All welcome, mighty Saint, to thee.
+    What wish within thy heart hast thou!
+    If I can please thee, tell me how.
+    Hail, Saint, from whom all honors flow,
+    Worthy of all I can bestow.
+    Blest is my birth with fruit to-day,
+    Nor has my life been thrown away.
+    I see the best of Bráhman race,
+    And night to glorious morn gives place.
+    Thou, holy Sage, in days of old
+    Among the royal saints enrolled,
+    Didst, penance-glorified, within
+    The Bráhman caste high station win.
+    'Tis meet and right in many a way
+    That I to thee should honor pay.
+    This seems a marvel to mine eyes--
+    All sin thy visit purifies;
+    And I by seeing thee, O Sage,
+    Have reaped the fruit of pilgrimage.
+    Then say what thou wouldst have me do.
+    That thou hast sought this interview.
+    Favored by thee, my wish is still,
+    O Hermit, to perform thy will.
+    Nor needest thou at length explain
+    The object that thy heart would gain.
+    Without reserve I grant it now--
+    My deity, O Lord, art thou."
+    The glorious hermit, far renowned.
+    With highest fame and virtue crowned,
+    Rejoiced these modest words to hear
+    Delightful to the mind and ear.
+
+
+
+CANTO XXI
+
+VIŚVÁMITRA'S SPEECH
+
+    The hermit heard with high content
+    That speech so wondrous eloquent,
+    And while each hair with joy arose,
+    He thus made answer at the close:--
+    "Good is thy speech, O noble King,
+    And like thyself in everything.
+    So should their lips be wisdom-fraught
+    Whom kings begot, Vaśishtha taught.
+    The favor which I came to seek
+    Thou grantest ere my tongue can speak.
+    But let my tale attention claim,
+    And hear the need for which I came.
+    O King, as Scripture texts allow,
+    A holy rite employs me now.
+    Two fiends who change their forms at will
+    Impede that rite with cursed skill.
+    Oft when the task is nigh complete,
+    These worst of fiends my toil defeat,
+    Throw bits of bleeding flesh, and o'er
+    The altar shed a stream of gore.
+    When thus the rite is mocked and stayed.
+    And all my pious hopes delayed,
+    Cast down in heart the spot I leave,
+    And spent with fruitless labor grieve.
+    Nor can I, checked by prudence, dare
+    Let loose my fury on them there--
+    The muttered curse, the threatening word,
+    In such a rite must ne'er be heard.
+    Thy grace the rite from check can free,
+    And yield the fruit I long to see.
+    Thy duty bids thee, King, defend
+    The suffering guest, the suppliant friend.
+    Give me thy son, thine eldest born,
+    Whom locks like raven's wings adorn.
+    That hero youth, the truly brave,
+    Of thee, O glorious King, I crave.
+    For he can lay those demons low
+    Who mar my rites and work me woe:
+    My power shall shield the youth from harm,
+    And heavenly might shall nerve his arm.
+    And on my champion will I shower
+    Unnumbered gifts of varied power--
+    Such gifts as shall ensure his fame
+    And spread through all the worlds his name.
+    Be sure those fiends can never stand
+    Before the might of Ráma's hand,
+    And mid the best and bravest none
+    Can slay that pair but Raghu's son.
+    Entangled in the toils of Fate
+    Those sinners, proud and obstinate,
+    Are, in their fury overbold,
+    No match for Ráma, mighty-souled.
+    Nor let a father's breast give way
+    Too far to fond affection's sway.
+    Count thou the fiends already slain:
+    My word is pledged, nor pledged in vain.
+    I know the hero Ráma well
+    In whom high thoughts and valor dwell;
+    So does Vaśishtha, so do these
+    Engaged in long austerities.
+    If thou would do the righteous deed,
+    And win high fame, thy virtue's meed,
+    Fame that on earth shall last and live,
+    To me, great King, thy Ráma give.
+    If to the words that I have said,
+    With Saint Vaśishtha at their head
+    Thy holy men, O King, agree,
+    Then let thy Ráma go with me.
+    Ten nights my sacrifice will last,
+    And ere the stated time be past
+    Those wicked fiends, those impious twain,
+    Must fall by wondrous Ráma slain.
+    Let not the hours, I warn thee, fly,
+    Fixt for the rite, unheeded by;
+    Good luck have thou, O royal Chief,
+    Nor give thy heart to needless grief."
+
+    Thus in fair words with virtue fraught,
+    The pious glorious saint besought.
+    But the good speech with poignant sting
+    Pierced ear and bosom of the King,
+    Who, stabbed with pangs too sharp to bear,
+    Fell prostrate and lay fainting there.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXII
+
+DAŚARATHA'S SPEECH
+
+    His tortured senses all astray,
+    Awhile the hapless monarch lay,
+    Then slowly gathering thought and strength
+    To Viśvámitra spoke at length:--
+    "My son is but a child, I ween;
+    This year he will be just sixteen.
+    How is he fit for such emprise,
+    My darling with the lotus eyes?
+    A mighty army will I bring
+    That calls me master, lord, and King,
+    And with its countless squadrons fight
+    Against these rovers of the night.
+    My faithful heroes skilled to wield
+    The arms of war will take the field;
+    Their skill the demons' might may break:
+    Ráma, my child, thou must not take.
+    I, even I, my bow in hand,
+    Will in the van of battle stand,
+    And, while my soul is left alive,
+    With the night-roaming demons strive.
+    Thy guarded sacrifice shall be
+    Completed, from all hindrance free.
+    Thither will I my journey make:
+    Ráma, my child, thou must not take.
+    A boy unskilled, he knows not yet
+    The bounds to strength and weakness set.
+    No match is he for demon foes
+    Who magic arts to arms oppose.
+    O chief of saints, I have no power,
+    Of Ráma reft, to live one hour--
+    Mine aged heart at once would break:
+    Ráma, my child, thou must not take.
+    Nine thousand circling years have fled
+    With all their seasons o'er my head,
+    And as a hard-won boon, O Sage,
+    These sons have come to cheer mine age.
+    My dearest love amid the four
+    Is he whom first his mother bore,
+    Still dearer for his virtue's sake;
+    Ráma, my child, thou must not take.
+    But if, unmoved by all I say,
+    Thou needs must bear my son away,
+    Let me lead with him, I entreat,
+    A fourfold army all complete.
+    What is the demons' might, O Sage?
+    Who are they? What their parentage?
+    What is their size? What beings lend
+    Their power to guard them and befriend?
+    How can my son their arts withstand?
+    Or I or all my armed band?
+    Tell me the whole that I may know
+    To met in war each evil foe
+    Whom conscious might inspires with pride."
+
+    And Viśvámitra thus replied:--
+    "Sprung from Pulastya's race there came
+    A giant known by Rávan's name.
+    Once favored by the Eternal Sire
+    He plagues the worlds in ceaseless ire,
+    For peerless power and might renowned,
+    By giant bands encompassed round.
+    Viśravas for his sire they hold,
+    His brother is the Lord of Gold.
+    King of the giant hosts is he,
+    And worst of all in cruelty.
+    This Rávan's dread commands impel
+    Two demons who in might excel,
+    Márícha and Suváhu Light,
+    To trouble and impede the rite."
+    Then thus the King addressed the sage:--
+    "No power have I, my lord, to wage
+    War with this evil-minded foe;
+    Now pity on my darling show,
+    And upon me of hapless fate,
+    For thee as God I venerate.
+    Gods, spirits, bards of heavenly birth,
+    The birds of air, the snakes of earth
+    Before the might of Rávan quail,
+    Much less can mortal man avail.
+    He draws, I hear, from out the breast,
+    The valor of the mightiest.
+    No, ne'er can I with him contend,
+    Or with the forces he may send.
+    How can I then my darling lend,
+    Godlike, unskilled in battle? No,
+    I will not let my young child go.
+    Foes of thy rite, those mighty ones,
+    Sunda and Upasunda's sons,
+    Are fierce as Fate to overthrow:
+    I will not let my young child go.
+    Márícha and Suváhu fell
+    Are valiant and instructed well.
+    One of the twain I might attack
+    With all my friends their lord to back."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXIII
+
+VAŚISHTHA'S SPEECH
+
+    While thus the hapless monarch spoke,
+    Paternal love his utterance broke.
+    Then words like these the saint returned,
+    And fury in his bosom burned:--
+    "Didst thou, O King, a promise make,
+    And wishest now thy word to break?
+    A son of Raghu's line should scorn
+    To fail in faith, a man forsworn.
+    But if thy soul can bear the shame
+    I will return e'en as I came.
+    Live with thy sons, and joy be thine,
+    False scion of Kakutstha's line."
+    As Viśvámitra, mighty sage,
+    Was moved with this tempestuous rage,
+    Earth rocked and reeled throughout her frame,
+    And fear upon the Immortals came.
+    But Saint Vaśishtha, wisest seer,
+    Observant of his vows austere,
+    Saw the whole world convulsed with dread,
+    And thus unto the monarch said:--
+    "Thou, born of old Ikshváku's seed,
+    Art Justice' self in mortal weed.
+    Constant and pious, blest by fate,
+    The right thou must not violate.
+    Thou, Raghu's son, so famous through
+    The triple world as just and true,
+    Perform thy bounden duty still,
+    Nor stain thy race by deed of ill.
+    If thou have sworn and now refuse
+    Thou must thy store of merit lose.
+    Then, Monarch, let thy Ráma go?
+    Nor fear for him the demon foe.
+    The fiends shall have no power to hurt
+    Him trained to war or inexpert--
+    Nor vanquish him in battle field,
+    For Kuśik's son the youth will shield.
+    He is incarnate Justice, he
+    The best of men for bravery--
+    Embodied love of penance drear,
+    Among the wise without a peer.
+    Full well he knows, great Kuśik's son,
+    The arms celestial, every one,
+    Arms from the Gods themselves concealed,
+    Far less to other men revealed.
+    These arms to him, when earth he swayed,
+    Mighty Kriśáśva, pleased, conveyed.
+    Kriśáśva's sons they are indeed,
+    Brought forth by Daksha's lovely seed,
+    Heralds of conquest, strong and bold,
+    Brilliant, of semblance manifold.
+    Jayá and Vijayá, most fair,
+    A hundred splendid weapons bare;
+    Of Jayá, glorious as the morn,
+    First fifty noble sons were born,
+    Boundless in size yet viewless too,
+    They came the demons to subdue.
+    And fifty children also came
+    Of Vijayá the beauteous dame,
+    Sanháras named, of mighty force,
+    Hard to assail or check in course;
+    Of these the hermit knows the use,
+    And weapons new can he produce.
+    All these the mighty saint will yield
+    To Ráma's hand, to own and wield;
+    And armed with these, beyond a doubt
+    Shall Ráma put those fiends to rout.
+    For Ráma and the people's sake,
+    For thine own good my counsel take,
+    Nor seek, O King, with fond delay,
+    The parting of thy son to stay."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXIV
+
+THE SPELLS
+
+    Vaśishtha thus was speaking still:
+    The monarch, of his own free will,
+    Bade with quick zeal and joyful cheer
+    Ráma and Lakshman hasten near.
+    Mother and sire in loving care
+    Sped their dear son with rite and prayer;
+    Vaśishtha blessed him ere he went,
+    O'er his loved head the father bent--
+    And then to Kuśik's son resigned
+    Ráma with Lakshman close behind.
+    Standing by Viśvámitra's side,
+    The youthful hero, lotus-eyed,
+    The Wind-God saw, and sent a breeze
+    Whose sweet pure touch just waved the trees.
+    There fell from heaven a flowery rain,
+    And with the song and dance the strain
+    Of shell and tambour sweetly blent
+    As forth the son of Raghu went.
+    The hermit led: behind him came
+    The bow-armed Ráma, dear to fame,
+    Whose locks were like the raven's wing:--
+    Then Lakshman, closely following.
+    The Gods and Indra, filled with joy,
+    Looked down upon the royal boy,
+    And much they longed the death to see
+    Of their ten-headed enemy.
+    Ráma and Lakshman paced behind
+    That hermit of the lofty mind,
+    As the young Aśvins, heavenly pair,
+    Follow Lord Indra through the air.
+    On arm and hand the guard they wore,
+    Quiver and bow and sword they bore;
+    Two fire-born Gods of War seemed they,
+    He, Śiva's self who led the way.
+    Upon fair Sarjú's southern shore
+    They now had walked a league or more,
+    When thus the sage in accents mild
+    To Ráma said: "Beloved child,
+    This lustral water duly touch:
+    My counsel will avail thee much.
+    Forget not all the words I say,
+    Nor let the occasion slip away.
+    Lo, with two spells I thee invest,
+    The mighty and the mightiest.
+    O'er thee fatigue shall ne'er prevail,
+    Nor age nor change thy limbs assail.
+    Thee powers of darkness ne'er shall smite
+    In tranquil sleep or wild delight.
+    No one is there in all the land
+    Thine equal for the vigorous hand.
+    Thou, when thy lips pronounce the spell,
+    Shalt have no peer in heaven or hell.
+    None in the world with thee shall vie,
+    O sinless one, in apt reply--
+    In fortune, knowledge, wit, and tact,
+    Wisdom to plan and skill to act.
+    This double science take, and gain
+    Glory that shall for aye remain.
+    Wisdom and judgment spring from each
+    Of these fair spells whose use I teach.
+    Hunger and thirst unknown to thee,
+    High in the worlds thy rank shall be.
+    For these two spells with might endued,
+    Are the Great Father's heavenly brood,
+    And thee, O Chief, may fitly grace,
+    Thou glory of Kakutstha's race.
+    Virtues which none can match are thine,
+    Lord, from thy birth, of gifts divine--
+    And now these spells of might shall cast
+    Fresh radiance o'er the gifts thou hast."
+    Then Ráma duly touched the wave,
+    Raised suppliant hands, bowed low his head,
+    And took the spells the hermit gave,
+    Whose soul on contemplation fed.
+    From him whose might these gifts enhanced
+    A brighter beam of glory glanced:--
+    So shines in all his autumn blaze
+    The Day-God of the thousand rays.
+    The hermit's wants those youths supplied,
+    As pupils used to holy guide.
+    And then the night in sweet content
+    On Sarjú's pleasant bank they spent.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXV
+
+THE HERMITAGE OF LOVE
+
+
+    Soon as appeared the morning light
+    Up rose the mighty anchorite,
+    And thus to youthful Ráma said,
+    Who lay upon his leafy bed:--
+    "High fate is hers who calls thee son:
+    Arise, 'tis break of day;
+    Rise, Chief, and let those rites be done
+    Due at the morning's ray."
+    At that great sage's high behest
+    Up sprang the princely pair,
+    To bathing rites themselves addressed,
+    And breathed the holiest prayer.
+    Their morning task completed, they
+    To Viśvámitra came,
+    That store of holy works, to pay
+    The worship saints may claim.
+    Then to the hallowed spot they went
+    Along fair Sarjú's side
+    Where mix her waters confluent
+    With three-pathed Gangá's tide.
+    There was a sacred hermitage
+    Where saints devout of mind
+    Their lives through many a lengthened age
+    To penance had resigned.
+    That pure abode the princes eyed
+    With unrestrained delight,
+    And thus unto the saint they cried,
+    Rejoicing at the sight:--
+    "Whose is that hermitage we see?
+    Who makes his dwelling there?
+    Full of desire to hear are we:
+    O Saint, the truth declare."
+    The hermit, smiling, made reply
+    To the two boys' request:--
+    "Hear, Ráma, who in days gone by
+    This calm retreat possessed--
+    Kandarpa in apparent form,
+    (Called Káma by the wise,)
+    Dared Umá's new-wed lord to storm
+    And make the God his prize.
+    'Gainst Sthánu's self, on rites austere
+    And vows intent, they say,
+    His bold rash hand he dared to rear,
+    Though Sthánu cried, Away!
+    But the God's eye with scornful glare
+    Fell terrible on him,
+    Dissolved the shape that was so fair
+    And burnt up every limb.
+    Since the great God's terrific rage
+    Destroyed his form and frame,
+    Káma in each succeeding age
+    Has borne Ananga's name.
+    So, where his lovely form decayed,
+    This land is Anga styled:--
+    Sacred to him of old this shade,
+    And hermits undefiled.
+    Here Scripture-talking elders sway
+    Each sense with firm control,
+    And penance-rites have washed away
+    All sin from every soul.
+    One night, fair boy, we here will spend,
+    A pure stream on each hand,
+    And with to-morrow's light will bend
+    Our steps to yonder strand.
+    Here let us bathe, and free from stain
+    To that pure grove repair,
+    Sacred to Káma, and remain
+    One night in comfort there."
+    With penance' far-discerning eye
+    The saintly men beheld
+    Their coming, and with transport high
+    Each holy bosom swelled.
+    To Kuśik's son the gift they gave
+    That honored guest should greet--
+    Water they brought his feet to lave,
+    And showed him honor meet.
+    Ráma and Lakshman next obtained
+    In due degree their share--
+    Then with sweet talk the guests remained,
+    And charmed each listener there.
+    The evening prayers were duly said
+    With voices calm and low:--
+    Then on the ground each laid his head
+    And slept till morning's glow.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXVI
+
+THE FOREST OF TÁDAKÁ
+
+    When the fair light of morning rose
+    The princely tamers of their foes
+    Followed, his morning worship o'er,
+    The hermit to the river's shore.
+    The high-souled men with thoughtful care
+    A pretty barge had stationed there.
+    All cried, "O lord, this barge ascend,
+    And with thy princely followers bend
+    To yonder side thy prosperous way--
+    With nought to check thee or delay."
+    Nor did the saint their rede reject:
+    He bade farewell with due respect,
+    And crossed, attended by the twain,
+    That river rushing to the main.
+    When now the bark was half-way o'er,
+    Ráma and Lakshman heard the roar,
+    That louder grew and louder yet,
+    Of waves by dashing waters met.
+    Then Ráma asked the mighty seer:--
+    "What is the tumult that I hear
+    Of waters cleft in mid-career?"
+    Soon as the speech of Ráma, stirred
+    By deep desire to know, he heard,
+    The pious saint began to tell
+    What caused the waters' roar and swell:--
+    "On high Kailása's distant hill
+    There lies a noble lake
+    Whose waters, born from Brahmá's will,
+    The name of Mánas take.
+    Thence, hallowing where'er they flow,
+    The streams of Sarjú fall,
+    And wandering through the plains below
+    Embrace Ayodhyá's wall.
+    Still, still preserved in Sarjú's name
+    Sarovar's fame we trace,
+    The flood of Brahmá whence she came
+    To run her holy race.
+    To meet great Gangá here she hies
+    With tributary wave--
+    Hence the loud roar ye hear arise,
+    Of floods that swell and rave.
+    Here, pride of Raghu's line, do thou
+    In humble adoration bow."
+
+    He spoke. The princes both obeyed,
+    And reverence to each river paid.
+    They reached the southern shore at last,
+    And gayly on their journey passed.
+    A little space beyond there stood
+    A gloomy awe-inspiring wood.
+    The monarch's noble son began
+    To question thus the holy man:--
+    "Whose gloomy forest meets mine eye,
+    Like some vast cloud that fills the sky?
+    Pathless and dark it seems to be,
+    Where birds in thousands wander free;
+    Where shrill cicadas' cries resound,
+    And fowl of dismal note abound.
+    Lion, rhinoceros, and bear,
+    Boar, tiger, elephant, are there,
+    There shrubs and thorns run wild:
+    Dháo, Sál, Bignonia, Bel, are found,
+    And every tree that grows on ground:
+    How is the forest styled?"
+    The glorious saint this answer made:--
+    "Dear child of Raghu, hear
+    Who dwells within the horrid shade
+    That looks so dark and drear.
+    Where now is wood, long ere this day
+    Two broad and fertile lands,
+    Malaja and Karúsha lay,
+    Adorned by heavenly hands.
+    Here, mourning friendship's broken ties,
+    Lord Indra of the thousand eyes
+    Hungered and sorrowed many a day,
+    His brightness soiled with mud and clay,
+    When in a storm of passion he
+    Had slain his dear friend Namuchi.
+    Then came the Gods and saints who bore
+    Their golden pitchers brimming o'er
+    With holy streams that banish stain,
+    And bathed Lord Indra pure again.
+    When in this land the God was freed
+    From spot and stain of impious deed
+    For that his own dear friend he slew,
+    High transport thrilled his bosom through.
+    Then in his joy the lands he blessed,
+    And gave a boon they long possessed:--
+    "Because these fertile lands retain
+    The washings of the blot and stain,
+    ('Twas thus Lord Indra sware,)
+    Malaja and Karúsha's name
+    Shall celebrate with deathless fame
+    My malady and care."
+    "So be it," all the Immortals cried,
+    When Indra's speech they heard--
+    And with acclaim they ratified
+    The names his lips conferred.
+    "Long time, O victor of thy foes,
+    These happy lands had sweet repose,
+    And higher still in fortune rose.
+    At length a spirit, loving ill,
+    Tádaká, wearing shapes at will--
+    Whose mighty strength, exceeding vast,
+    A thousand elephants' surpassed,
+    Was to fierce Sunda, lord and head
+    Of all the demon armies, wed.
+    From her, Lord Indra's peer in might
+    Giant Márícha sprang to light;
+    And she, a constant plague and pest,
+    These two fair realms has long distressed.
+    Now dwelling in her dark abode
+    A league away she bars the road:
+    And we, O Ráma, hence must go
+    Where lies the forest of the foe.
+    Now on thine own right arm rely,
+    And my command obey:
+    Smite the foul monster that she die,
+    And take the plague away.
+    To reach this country none may dare,
+    Fallen from its old estate,
+    Which she, whose fury nought can bear,
+    Has left so desolate.
+    And now my truthful tale is told--
+    How with accursed sway
+    The spirit plagued this wood of old,
+    And ceases not to-day."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXVII
+
+THE BIRTH OF TÁDAKÁ
+
+    When thus the sage without a peer
+    Had closed that story strange to hear,
+    Ráma again the saint addressed,
+    To set one lingering doubt at rest:--
+    "O holy man, 'tis said by all
+    That spirits' strength is weak and small,
+    How can she match, of power so slight,
+    A thousand elephants in might?"
+    And Viśvámitra thus replied
+    To Raghu's son, the glorified:--
+    "Listen, and I will tell thee how
+    She gained the strength that arms her now.
+    A mighty spirit lived of yore;
+    Suketu was the name he bore.
+    Childless was he, and free from crime
+    In rites austere he passed his time.
+    The mighty Sire was pleased to show
+    His favor, and a child bestow,
+    Tádaká named, most fair to see,
+    A pearl among the maids was she--
+    And matched, for such was Brahmá's dower,
+    A thousand elephants in power.
+    Nor would the Eternal Sire, although
+    The spirit longed, a son bestow.
+    That maid in beauty's youthful pride
+    Was given to Sunda for a bride.
+    Her son, Márícha was his name,
+    A giant, through a curse, became.
+    She, widowed, dared with him molest
+    Agastya, of all saints the best.
+    Inflamed with hunger's wildest rage,
+    Roaring she rushed upon the sage.
+    When the great hermit saw her near,
+    On-speeding in her fierce career,
+    He thus pronounced Márícha's doom:--
+    'A giant's form and shape assume,'
+    And then, by mighty anger swayed,
+    On Tádaká this curse he laid:--
+    'Thy present form and semblance quit,
+    And wear a shape thy mood to fit;
+    Changed form and feature by my ban,
+    A fearful thing that feeds on man.'
+    She, by his awful curse possessed,
+    And mad with rage that fills her breast,
+    Has on this land her fury dealt
+    Where once the saint Agastya dwelt.
+    Go, Ráma, smite this monster dead,
+    The wicked plague, of power so dread,
+    And further by this deed of thine
+    The good of Bráhmans and of kine.
+    Thy hand alone can overthrow,
+    In all the worlds, this impious foe.
+    Nor let compassion lead thy mind
+    To shrink from blood of womankind;
+    A monarch's son must ever count
+    The people's welfare paramount--
+    And whether pain or joy he deal
+    Dare all things for his subjects' weal;
+    Yea, if the deed bring praise or guilt,
+    If life be saved or blood be spilt:--
+    Such, through all time, should be the care
+    Of those a kingdom's weight who bear.
+    Slay, Ráma, slay this impious fiend,
+    For by no law her life is screened.
+    So Manthará, as bards have told,
+    Virochan's child, was slain of old
+    By Indra, when in furious hate
+    She longed the earth to devastate.
+    So Kávya's mother, Bhrigu's wife,
+    Who loved her husband as her life,
+    When Indra's throne she sought to gain,
+    By Vishnu's hand of yore was slain.
+    By these and high-souled kings beside,
+    Struck down, have lawless women died."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXVIII
+
+THE DEATH OF TÁDAKÁ
+
+    Thus spoke the saint. Each vigorous word
+    The noble monarch's offspring heard--
+    And, reverent hands together laid,
+    His answer to the hermit made:--
+    "My sire and mother bade me aye
+    Thy word, O mighty Saint, obey.
+    So will I, O most glorious, kill
+    This Tádaká who joys in ill--
+    For such my sire's, and such thy will.
+    To aid with mine avenging hand
+    The Bráhmans, kine, and all the land,
+    Obedient, heart and soul, I stand."
+    Thus spoke the tamer of the foe,
+    And by the middle grasped his bow.
+    Strongly he drew the sounding string
+    That made the distant welkin ring.
+    Scared by the mighty clang the deer
+    That roamed the forest shook with fear.
+    And Tádaká the echo heard,
+    And rose in haste from slumber stirred.
+    In wild amaze, her soul aflame
+    With fury towards the spot she came.
+    When that foul shape of evil mien
+    And stature vast as e'er was seen
+    The wrathful son of Raghu eyed,
+    He thus unto his brother cried:--
+    "Her dreadful shape, O Lakshman, see,
+    A form to shudder at and flee.
+    The hideous monster's very view
+    Would cleave a timid heart in two.
+    Behold the demon hard to smite,
+    Defended by her magic might.
+    My hand shall stay her course to-day,
+    And shear her nose and ears away.
+    No heart have I her life to take:
+    I spare it for her sex's sake.
+    My will is but--with minished force--
+    To check her in her evil course."
+    While thus he spoke, by rage impelled--
+    Roaring as she came nigh,
+    The fiend her course at Ráma held
+    With huge arms tossed on high.
+    Her, rushing on, the seer assailed
+    With a loud cry of hate;
+    And thus the sons of Raghu hailed:--
+    "Fight, and be fortunate."
+    Then from the earth a horrid cloud
+    Of dust the demon raised,
+    And for awhile in darkling shroud
+    Wrapt Raghu's sons amazed.
+    Then calling on her magic power
+    The fearful fight to wage,
+    She smote him with a stony shower,
+    Till Ráma burned with rage.
+    Then pouring forth his arrowy rain
+    That stony flood to stay,
+    With wingèd darts, as she charged amain,
+    He shore her hands away.
+    As Tádaká still thundered near
+    Thus maimed by Ráma's blows,
+    Lakshman in fury severed sheer
+    The monster's ears and nose.
+    Assuming by her magic skill
+    A fresh and fresh disguise,
+    She tried a thousand shapes at will,
+    Then vanished from their eyes.
+    When Gádhi's son of high renown
+    Still saw the stony rain pour down
+    Upon each princely warrior's head,
+    With words of wisdom thus he said:--
+    "Enough of mercy, Ráma, lest
+    This sinful evil-working pest,
+    Disturber of each holy rite,
+    Repair by magic arts her might.
+    Without delay the fiend should die,
+    For, see, the twilight hour is nigh.
+    And at the joints of night and day
+    Such giant foes are hard to slay."
+    Then Ráma, skilful to direct
+    His arrow to the sound--
+    With shafts the mighty demon checked
+    Who rained her stones around.
+    She, sore impeded and beset
+    By Ráma and his arrowy net--
+    Though skilled in guile and magic lore,
+    Rushed on the brothers with a roar.
+    Deformed, terrific, murderous, dread,
+    Swift as the levin on she sped--
+    Like cloudy pile in autumn's sky,
+    Lifting her two vast arms on high:
+    When Ráma smote her with a dart
+    Shaped like a crescent, to the heart.
+    Sore wounded by the shaft that came
+    With lightning speed and surest aim,
+    Blood spurting from her mouth and side,
+    She fell upon the earth and died.
+    Soon as the Lord who rules the sky
+    Saw the dread monster lifeless lie,
+    He called aloud, Well done! well done!
+    And the Gods honored Raghu's son.
+    Standing in heaven the Thousand-eyed,
+    With all the Immortals, joying cried:--
+    "Lift up thine eyes, O Saint, and see
+    The Gods and Indra nigh to thee.
+    This deed of Ráma's boundless might
+    Has filled our bosoms with delight.
+    Now, for our will would have it so,
+    To Raghu's son some favor show.
+    Invest him with the power which nought
+    But penance gains, and holy thought.
+    Those heavenly arms on him bestow--
+    To thee entrusted long ago
+    By great Kriśáśva best of kings,
+    Son of the Lord of living things.
+    More fit recipient none can be
+    Than he who joys in following thee;
+    And for our sakes the monarch's seed
+    Has yet to do a mighty deed."
+
+    He spoke; and all the heavenly train
+    Rejoicing sought their homes again,
+    While honor to the saint they paid--
+    Then came the evening's twilight shade.
+    The best of hermits overjoyed
+    To know the monstrous fiend destroyed,
+    His lips on Ráma's forehead pressed,
+    And thus the conquering chief addressed:--
+    "O Ráma, gracious to the sight,
+    Here will we pass the present night,
+    And with the morrow's earliest ray
+    Bend to my hermitage our way."
+    The son of Daśaratha heard,
+    Delighted, Viśvámitra's word--
+    And as he bade, that night he spent
+    In Tádaká's wild wood, content.
+    And the grove shone that happy day,
+    Freed from the curse that on it lay--
+    Like Chaitraratha fair and gay.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXIX
+
+THE CELESTIAL ARMS
+
+    That night they slept and took their rest;
+    And then the mighty saint addressed,
+    With pleasant smile and accents mild
+    These words to Raghu's princely child:--
+    "Well pleased am I. High fate be thine,
+    Thou scion of a royal line.
+    Now will I, for I love thee so,
+    All heavenly arms on thee bestow.
+    Victor with these, whoe'er oppose,
+    Thy hand shall conquer all thy foes--
+    Though Gods and spirits of the air,
+    Serpents and fiends, the conflict dare.
+    I'll give thee as a pledge of love
+    The mystic arms they use above,
+    For worthy thou to have revealed
+    The weapons I have learnt to wield.
+    First, son of Raghu, shall be thine
+    The arm of Vengeance, strong, divine:
+    The arm of Fate, the arm of Right,
+    And Vishnu's arm of awful might:--
+    That, before which no foe can stand,
+    The thunderbolt of Indra's hand;
+    And Śiva's trident, sharp and dread,
+    And that dire weapon, Brahmá's Head.
+    And two fair clubs, O royal child,
+    One Charmer and one Pointed styled--
+    With flame of lambent fire aglow,
+    On thee, O Chieftain, I bestow.
+    And Fate's dread net and Justice' noose
+    That none may conquer, for thy use:--
+    And the great cord, renowned of old,
+    Which Varun ever loves to hold.
+    Take these two thunderbolts, which I
+    Have got for thee, the Moist and Dry.
+    Here Śiva's dart to thee I yield,
+    And that which Vishnu wont to wield.
+    I give to thee the arm of Fire,
+    Desired by all and named the Spire.
+    To thee I grant the Wind-God's dart,
+    Named Crusher, O thou pure of heart.
+    This arm, the Horse's Head, accept,
+    And this, the Curlew's Bill yclept,
+    And these two spears, the best e'er flew,
+    Named the Invincible and True.
+    And arms of fiends I make thine own,
+    Skull-wreath and mace that smashes bone.
+    And Joyous, which the spirits bear,
+    Great weapon of the sons of air.
+    Brave offspring of the best of lords,
+    I give thee now the Gem of swords--
+    And offer next, thine hand to arm,
+    The heavenly bard's beloved charm.
+    Now with two arms I thee invest
+    Of never-ending Sleep and Rest--
+    With weapons of the Sun and Rain,
+    And those that dry and burn amain;
+    And strong Desire with conquering touch,
+    The dart that Káma prizes much.
+    I give the arm of shadowy powers
+    That bleeding flesh of man devours.
+    I give the arms the God of Gold
+    And giant fiends exult to hold.
+    This smites the foe in battle-strife,
+    And takes his fortune, strength, and life.
+    I give the arms called False and True,
+    And great Illusion give I too;
+    The hero's arm called Strong and Bright
+    That spoils the foeman's strength in fight.
+    I give thee as a priceless boon
+    The Dew, the weapon of the Moon,
+    And add the weapon, deftly planned,
+    That strengthens Viśvakarmá's hand.
+    The Mortal dart whose point is chill,
+    And Slaughter, ever sure to kill;
+    All these and other arms, for thou
+    Art very dear, I give thee now.
+    Receive these weapons from my hand,
+    Son of the noblest in the land."
+    Facing the east, the glorious saint
+    Pure from all spot of earthly taint,
+    To Ráma, with delighted mind,
+    That noble host of spells consigned.
+    He taught the arms, whose lore is won
+    Hardly by Gods, to Raghu's son.
+    He muttered low the spell whose call
+    Summons those arms and rules them all--
+    And each, in visible form and frame,
+    Before the monarch's son they came.
+    They stood and spoke in reverent guise
+    To Ráma with exulting cries:--
+    "O noblest child of Raghu, see,
+    Thy ministers and thralls are we."
+    With joyful heart and eager hand
+    Ráma received the wondrous band,
+    And thus with words of welcome cried:--
+    "Aye present to my will abide"--
+    Then hasted to the saint to pay
+    Due reverence, and pursued his way.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXX
+
+THE MYSTERIOUS POWERS
+
+
+    Pure, with glad cheer and joyful breast,
+    Of those mysterious arms possessed,
+    Ráma, now passing on his way,
+    Thus to the saint began to say:--
+    "Lord of these mighty weapons, I
+    Can scarce be harmed by Gods on high;
+    Now, best of saints, I long to gain
+    The powers that can these arms restrain."
+    Thus spoke the prince. The sage austere,
+    True to his vows, from evil clear,
+    Called forth the names of those great charms
+    Whose powers restrain the deadly arms.
+    "Receive thou True and Truly-famed,
+    And Bold and Fleet: the weapons named
+    Warder and Progress, swift of pace,
+    Averted-head and Drooping-face;
+    The Seen, and that which Secret flies--
+    The weapon of the thousand eyes;
+    Ten-headed, and the Hundred-faced,
+    Star-gazer and the Layer-waste;
+    The Omen-bird, the Pure-from-spot,
+    The pair that wake and slumber not;
+    The Fiendish, that which shakes amain,
+    The Strong-of-Hand, the Rich-in-Gain;
+    The Guardian, and the Close-allied,
+    The Gaper, Love, and Golden-side:--
+    O Raghu's son receive all these,
+    Bright ones that wear what forms they please;
+    Kriśáśva's mystic sons are they,
+    And worthy thou their might to sway."
+    With joy the pride of Raghu's race
+    Received the hermit's proffered grace--
+    Mysterious arms, to check and stay,
+    Or smite the foeman in the fray.
+    Then, all with heavenly forms endued,
+    Nigh came the wondrous multitude.
+    Celestial in their bright attire
+    Some shone like coals of burning fire--
+    Some were like clouds of dusky smoke;
+    And suppliant thus they sweetly spoke:--
+    "Thy thralls, O Ráma, here we stand--
+    Command, we pray, thy faithful band."
+    "Depart," he cried, "where each may list,
+    But when I call you to assist,
+    Be present to my mind with speed,
+    And aid me in the hour of need."
+
+    To Ráma then they lowly bent,
+    And round him in due reverence went--
+    To his command they answered, "Yea,"
+    And as they came so went away.
+    When thus the arms had homeward flown,
+    With pleasant words and modest tone,
+    E'en as he walked, the prince began
+    To question thus the holy man:--
+    "What cloudlike wood is that which near
+    The mountain's side I see appear?
+    O tell me, for I long to know:
+    Its pleasant aspect charms me so.
+    Its glades are full of deer at play,
+    And sweet birds sing on every spray.
+    Passed is the hideous wild--I feel
+    So sweet a tremor o'er me steal--
+    And hail with transport fresh and new
+    A land that is so fair to view.
+    Then tell me all, thou holy Sage,
+    And whose this pleasant hermitage
+    In which those wicked ones delight
+    To mar and kill each holy rite--
+    And with foul heart and evil deed
+    Thy sacrifice, great Saint, impede.
+    To whom, O Sage, belongs this land
+    In which thine altars ready stand?
+    'Tis mine to guard them, and to slay
+    The giants who the rites would stay.
+    All this, O best of saints, I burn
+    From thine own lips, my lord, to learn."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXXI
+
+THE PERFECT HERMITAGE
+
+
+    Thus spoke the prince of boundless might,
+    And thus replied the anchorite:--
+    "Chief of the mighty arm, of yore
+    Lord Vishnu, whom the Gods adore
+    For holy thought and rites austere,
+    Of penance made his dwelling here.
+    This ancient wood was called of old
+    Grove of the Dwarf, the mighty-souled--
+    And when perfection he attained
+    The grove the name of Perfect gained.
+    Bali of yore, Virochan's son,
+    Dominion over Indra won--
+    And when with power his proud heart swelled,
+    O'er the three worlds his empire held.
+    When Bali then began a rite,
+    The Gods and Indra in affright
+    Sought Vishnu in this place of rest,
+    And thus with prayers the God addressed:--
+    'Bali, Virochan's mighty son,
+    His sacrifice has now begun:
+    Of boundless wealth, that demon king
+    Is bounteous to each living thing.
+    Though suppliants flock from every side
+    The suit of none is e'er denied.
+    Whate'er, where'er, howe'er the call,
+    He hears the suit and gives to all.
+    Now with thine own illusive art
+    Perform, O Lord, the helper's part:
+    Assume a dwarfish form, and thus
+    From fear and danger rescue us.'
+    Thus in their dread the Immortals sued
+    The God, a dwarfish shape indued:--
+    Before Virochan's son he came,
+    Three steps of land his only claim.
+    The boon obtained, in wondrous wise
+    Lord Vishnu's form increased in size;
+    Through all the worlds, tremendous, vast,
+    God of the Triple Step, he passed.
+    The whole broad earth from side to side
+    He measured with one mighty stride--
+    Spanned with the next the firmament,
+    And with the third through heaven he went.
+    Thus was the king of demons hurled
+    By Vishnu to the nether world--
+    And thus the universe restored
+    To Indra's rule, its ancient lord.
+    And now because the Immortal God
+    This spot in dwarflike semblance trod,
+    The grove has aye been loved by me
+    For reverence of the devotee.
+    But demons haunt it, prompt to stay
+    Each holy offering I would pay.
+    Be thine, O lion-lord, to kill
+    These giants that delight in ill.
+    This day, beloved child, our feet
+    Shall rest within the calm retreat;
+    And know, thou chief of Raghu's line,
+    My hermitage is also thine."
+    He spoke; and soon the anchorite,
+    With joyous looks that beamed delight,
+    With Ráma and his brother stood
+    Within the consecrated wood.
+    Soon as they saw the holy man,
+    With one accord together ran
+    The dwellers in the sacred shade,
+    And to the saint their reverence paid--
+    And offered water for his feet,
+    The gift of honor, and a seat;
+    And next with hospitable care
+    They entertained the princely pair.
+    The royal tamers of their foes
+    Rested awhile in sweet repose--
+    Then to the chief of hermits sued
+    Standing in suppliant attitude:--
+    "Begin, O best of saints, we pray,
+    Initiatory rites to-day.
+    This Perfect Grove shall be anew
+    Made perfect, and thy words be true."
+
+    Then, thus addressed, the holy man,
+    The very glorious sage, began
+    The high preliminary rite,
+    Restraining sense and appetite.
+    Calmly the youths that night reposed,
+    And rose when morn her light disclosed--
+    Their morning worship paid, and took
+    Of lustral water from the brook.
+    Thus purified they breathed the prayer,
+    Then greeted Viśvámitra where
+    As celebrant he sate beside
+    The flame with sacred oil supplied.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXXII
+
+VIŚVÁMITRA'S SACRIFICE
+
+    That conquering pair, of royal race,
+    Skilled to observe due time and place--
+    To Kúśik's hermit son addressed,
+    In timely words, their meet request:--
+    "When must we, lord, we pray thee tell,
+    Those Rovers of the Night repel?
+    Speak, lest we let the moment fly,
+    And pass the due occasion by."
+    Thus longing for the strife, they prayed,
+    And thus the hermit's answer made:--
+    "Till the fifth day be come and past,
+    O Raghu's sons, your watch must last.
+    The saint his Díkshá has begun,
+    And all that time will speak to none."
+    Soon as the steadfast devotees
+    Had made reply in words like these,
+    The youths began, disdaining sleep,
+    Six days and nights their watch to keep--
+    The warrior pair who tamed the foe,
+    Unrivalled benders of the bow,
+    Kept watch and ward unwearied still
+    To guard the saint from scathe and ill.
+    Twas now the sixth returning day,
+    The hour foretold had passed away.
+    Then Ráma cried: "O Lakshman, now!
+    Firm, watchful, resolute be thou.
+    The fiends as yet have kept afar
+    From the pure grove in which we are;
+    Yet waits us, ere the day shall close,
+    Dire battle with the demon foes."
+    While thus spoke Ráma, borne away
+    By longing for the deadly fray,
+    See! bursting from the altar came
+    The sudden glory of the flame;
+    Round priest and deacon, and upon
+    Grass, ladles, flowers, the splendor shone--
+    And the high rite, in order due,
+    With sacred texts began anew.
+    But then a loud and fearful roar
+    Re-echoed through the sky;
+    And like vast clouds that shadow o'er
+    The heavens in dark July,
+    Involved in gloom of magic might
+    Two fiends rushed on amain--
+    Márícha, Rover of the Night,
+    Suváhu, and their train.
+    As on they came in wild career
+    Thick blood in rain they shed;
+    And Ráma saw those things of fear
+    Impending overhead. Then, soon as those accursed two
+    Who showered down blood he spied,
+    Thus to his brother brave and true
+    Spoke Ráma lotus-eyed:--
+    "Now, Lakshman, thou these fiends shalt see,
+    Man-eaters, foul of mind,
+    Before my mortal weapon flee
+    Like clouds before the wind."
+    He spoke. An arrow, swift as thought,
+    Upon his bow he pressed,
+    And smote, to utmost fury wrought,
+    Márícha on the breast.
+    Deep in his flesh the weapon lay
+    Winged by the mystic spell,
+    And, hurled a hundred leagues away,
+    In ocean's flood he fell.
+    Then Ráma, when he saw the foe
+    Convulsed and mad with pain
+    'Neath the chill-pointed weapon's blow,
+    To Lakshman spoke again:--
+    "See, Lakshman, see! this mortal dart
+    That strikes a numbing chill,
+    Hath struck him senseless with the smart,
+    But left him breathing still.
+    But these who love the evil way
+    And drink the blood they spill,
+    Rejoicing holy rites to stay,
+    Fierce plagues, my hand shall kill."
+    He seized another shaft, the best,
+    Aglow with living flame;
+    It struck Suváhu on the chest,
+    And dead to earth he came.
+    Again a dart, the Wind-God's own,
+    Upon his string he laid,
+    And all the demons were overthrown--
+    The saints no more afraid.
+    When thus the fiends were slain in fight,
+    Disturbers of each holy rite,
+    Due honor by the saints was paid
+    To Ráma for his wondrous aid:--
+    So Indra is adored when he
+    Has won some glorious victory.
+    Success at last the rite had crowned,
+    And Viśvámitra gazed around--
+    And seeing every side at rest,
+    The son of Raghu thus addressed:--
+    "My joy, O Prince, is now complete--
+    Thou hast obeyed my will:
+    Perfect before, this calm retreat
+    Is now more perfect still."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXXIII
+
+THE SONE
+
+    Their task achieved, the princes spent
+    That night with joy and full content.
+    Ere yet the dawn was well displayed
+    Their morning rites they duly paid--
+    And sought, while yet the light was faint,
+    The hermits and the mighty saint.
+    They greeted first that holy sire
+    Resplendent like the burning fire,
+    And then with noble words began
+    Their sweet speech to the sainted man:--
+    "Here stand, O lord, thy servants true--
+    Command what thou wouldst have us do."
+    The saints, by Viśvámitra led,
+    To Ráma thus in answer said:--
+    "Janak, the king who rules the land
+    Of fertile Mithilá, has planned
+    A noble sacrifice, and we
+    Will thither go the rite to see.
+    Thou, Prince of men, with us shalt go,
+    And there behold the wondrous bow--
+    Terrific, vast, of matchless might,
+    Which, splendid at the famous rite,
+    The Gods assembled gave the King.
+    No giant, fiend, or God can string
+    That gem of bows, no heavenly bard;
+    Then, sure, for man the task were hard.
+    When lords of earth have longed to know
+    The virtue of that wondrous bow,
+    The strongest sons of kings in vain
+    Have tried the mighty cord to strain.
+    This famous bow thou there shalt view,
+    And wondrous rites shalt witness too.
+    The high-souled king who lords it o'er
+    The realm of Mithilá, of yore
+    Gained from the Gods this bow, the price
+    Of his imperial sacrifice.
+    Won by the rite the glorious prize
+    Still in his royal palace lies--
+    Laid up in oil of precious scent
+    With aloes-wood and incense blent."
+    Then Ráma answering, "Be it so,"
+    Made ready with the rest to go.
+    The saint himself was now prepared,
+    But ere beyond the grove he fared,
+    He turned him and in words like these
+    Addressed the sylvan deities:--
+    "Farewell! each holy rite complete,
+    I leave the hermits' perfect seat:
+    To Gangá's northern shore I go
+    Beneath Himálaya's peaks of snow."
+    With reverent steps he paced around
+    The limits of the holy ground--
+    And then the mighty saint set forth
+    And took his journey to the north.
+    His pupils, deep in Scripture's page,
+    Followed behind the holy sage,
+    And servants from the sacred grove
+    A hundred wains for convoy drove.
+    The very birds that winged that air,
+    The very deer that harbored there,
+    Forsook the glade and leafy brake
+    And followed for the hermits' sake.
+    They travelled far, till in the west
+    The sun was speeding to his rest,
+    And made, their portioned journey o'er,
+    Their halt on Śona's distant shore.
+    The hermits bathed when sank the sun,
+    And every rite was duly done--
+    Oblations paid to Fire, and then
+    Sate round their chief the holy men.
+    Ráma and Lakshman lowly bowed
+    In reverence to the hermit crowd--
+    And Ráma, having sate him down
+    Before the saint of pure renown,
+    With humble palms together laid
+    His eager supplication made:--
+    "What country, O my lord, is this,
+    Fair-smiling in her wealth and bliss?
+    Deign fully, O thou mighty Seer,
+    To tell me, for I long to hear."
+    Moved by the prayer of Ráma, he
+    Told forth the country's history.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXXIV
+
+BRAHMADATTA
+
+    A king of Brahmá's seed who bore
+    The name of Kúsa reigned of yore.
+    Just, faithful to his vows, and true,
+    He held the good in honor due.
+    His bride, a queen of noble name,
+    Of old Vidarbha's monarchs came.
+    Like their own father, children four,
+    All valiant boys, the lady bore.
+    In glorious deeds each nerve they strained,
+    And well their Warrior part sustained.
+    To them most just, and true, and brave,
+    Their father thus his counsel gave:--
+    "Beloved children, ne'er forget
+    Protection is a prince's debt:
+    The noble work at once begin,
+    High virtue and her fruits to win."
+    The youths, to all the people dear,
+    Received his speech with willing ear;
+    And each went forth his several way,
+    Foundations of a town to lay.
+    Kuśámba, prince of high renown,
+    Was builder of Kauśámbí's town,
+    And Kuśanábha, just and wise,
+    Bade high Mahodaya's towers arise.
+    Amúrtarajas chose to dwell
+    In Dharmáranya's citadel,
+    And Vasu bade his city fair
+    The name of Girivraja bear.
+    This fertile spot whereon we stand
+    Was once the high-souled Vasu's land.
+    Behold! as round we turn our eyes,
+    Five lofty mountain peaks arise.
+    See! bursting from her parent hill,
+    Sumágadhí, a lovely rill,
+    Bright gleaming as she flows between
+    The mountains, like a wreath is seen--
+    And then through Magadh's plains and groves
+    With many a fair meander roves.
+    And this was Vasu's old domain,
+    The fertile Magadh's broad champaign,
+    Which smiling fields of tilth adorn
+    And diadem with golden corn.
+    The queen Ghritáchí, nymph most fair,
+    Married to Kuśanábha, bare
+    A hundred daughters lovely faced,
+    With every charm and beauty graced.
+    It chanced the maidens, bright and gay
+    As lightning-flashes on a day
+    Of rain-time, to the garden went
+    With song and play and merriment--
+    And there in gay attire they strayed,
+    And danced, and laughed, and sang, and played.
+    The God of Wind who roves at will
+    All places, as he lists, to fill,
+    Saw the young maidens dancing there,
+    Of faultless shape and mien most fair--
+    "I love you all, sweet girls," he cried,
+    "And each shall be my darling bride.
+    Forsake, forsake your mortal lot,
+    And gain a life that withers not.
+    A fickle thing is youth's brief span,
+    And more than all is mortal man.
+    Receive unending youth, and be
+    Immortal, O my loves, with me,"
+    The hundred girls, to wonder stirred,
+    The wooing of the Wind-God heard,
+    Laughed, as a jest, his suit aside,
+    And with one voice they thus replied:--
+    "O mighty Wind, free spirit who
+    All life pervadest, through and through--
+    Thy wondrous power we maidens know;
+    Then wherefore wilt thou mock us so?
+    Our sire is Kuśanábha, King;
+    And we, forsooth, have charms to bring
+    A God to woo us from the skies;
+    But honor first we maidens prize.
+    Far may the hour, we pray, be hence,
+    When we, O thou of little sense,
+    Our truthful father's choice refuse,
+    And for ourselves our husbands choose.
+    Our honored sire our lord we deem,
+    He is to us a God supreme--
+    And they to whom his high decree
+    May give us shall our husbands be."
+
+    He heard the answer they returned,
+    And mighty rage within him burned.
+    On each fair maid a blast he sent--
+    Each stately form he bowed and bent.
+    Bent double by the Wind-God's ire
+    They sought the palace of their sire,
+    There fell upon the ground with sighs,
+    While tears and shame were in their eyes.
+    The King himself, with, troubled brow,
+    Saw his dear girls so fair but now,
+    A mournful sight all bent and bowed--
+    And grieving, thus he cried aloud:--
+    "What fate is this, and what the cause?
+    What wretch has scorned all heavenly laws?
+    Who thus your forms could curve and break?
+    You struggle, but no answer make."
+    They heard the speech of that wise king
+    Of their misfortune questioning.
+    Again the hundred maidens sighed,
+    Touched with their heads his feet, and cried:--
+    "The God of Wind, pervading space,
+    Would bring on us a foul disgrace,
+    And choosing folly's evil way
+    From virtue's path in scorn would stray.
+    But we in words like these reproved
+    The God of Wind whom passion moved:--
+    'Farewell, O Lord! A sire have we,
+    No women uncontrolled and free.
+    Go, and our sire's consent obtain
+    If thou our maiden hands wouldst gain.
+    No self-dependent life we live:
+    If we offend, our fault forgive,'
+    But led by folly as a slave,
+    He would not hear the rede we gave,
+    And even as we gently spoke
+    We felt the Wind-God's crushing stroke."
+    The pious King, with grief distressed,
+    The noble hundred thus addressed:--
+    "With patience, daughters, bear your fate,
+    Yours was a deed supremely great
+    When with one mind you kept from shame
+    The honor of your father's name.
+    Patience, when men their anger vent,
+    Is woman's praise and ornament;
+    Yet when the Gods inflict the blow
+    Hard is it to support the woe.
+    Patience, my girls, exceeds all price--
+    'Tis alms, and truth, and sacrifice.
+    Patience is virtue, patience fame:
+    Patience upholds this earthly frame.
+    And now, I think, is come the time
+    To wed you in your maiden prime.
+    Now, daughters, go where'er you will:
+    Thoughts for your good my mind shall fill."
+    The maidens went, consoled, away:--
+    The best of kings, that very day,
+    Summoned his ministers of state
+    About their marriage to debate.
+    Since then, because the Wind-God bent
+    The damsels' forms for punishment,
+    That royal town is known to fame
+    By Kanyákubja's borrowed name.
+
+    There lived a sage called Chúli then,
+    Devoutest of the sons of men;
+    His days in penance rites he spent,
+    A glorious saint, most continent.
+    To him absorbed in tasks austere
+    The child of Urmílá draw near--
+    Sweet Somadá, the heavenly maid,
+    And lent the saint her pious aid.
+    Long time near him the maiden spent,
+    And served him meek and reverent,
+    Till the great hermit, pleased with her,
+    Thus spoke unto his minister:--
+    "Grateful am I for all thy care--
+    Blest maiden, speak, thy wish declare."
+    The sweet-voiced nymph rejoiced to see
+    The favor of the devotee,
+    And to that excellent old man,
+    Most eloquent she thus began:--
+    "Thou hast, by heavenly grace sustained,
+    Close union with the Godhead gained.
+    I long, O Saint, to see a son
+    By force of holy penance won.
+    Unwed, a maiden life I live:
+    A son to me, thy suppliant, give."
+    The saint with favor heard her prayer,
+    And gave a son exceeding fair.
+    Him, Chúli's spiritual child,
+    His mother Brahmadatta styled.
+    King Brahmadatta, rich and great,
+    In Kámpilí maintained his state--
+    Ruling, like Indra in his bliss,
+    His fortunate metropolis.
+    King Kuśanábha planned that he
+    His hundred daughters' lord should be.
+    To him, obedient to his call,
+    The happy monarch gave them all.
+    Like Indra then he took the hand
+    Of every maiden of the band.
+    Soon as the hand of each young maid
+    In Brahmadatta's palm was laid,
+    Deformity and cares away,
+    She shone in beauty bright and gay.
+    Their freedom from the Wind-God's might
+    Saw Kuśanábha with delight.
+    Each glance that on their forms he threw
+    Filled him with raptures ever new.
+    Then when the rites were all complete,
+    With highest marks of honor meet
+    The bridegroom with his brides he sent
+    To his great seat of government.
+    The nymph received with pleasant speech
+    Her daughters; and, embracing each,
+    Upon their forms she fondly gazed,
+    And royal Kuśanábha praised.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXXV
+
+VIŚVÁMITRA'S LINEAGE
+
+    The rites were o'er, the maids were wed,
+    The bridegroom to his home was sped.
+    The sonless monarch bade prepare
+    A sacrifice to gain an heir.
+    Then Kuśa, Brahmá's son, appeared,
+    And thus King Kuśanábha cheered:--
+    'Thou shalt, my child, obtain a son
+    Like thine own self, O holy one.
+    Through him forever, Gádhi named,
+    Shalt thou in all the worlds be famed.'
+    He spoke and vanished from the sight
+    To Brahmá's world of endless light.
+    Time fled, and, as the saint foretold,
+    Gádhi was born, the holy-souled.
+    My sire was he; through him I trace
+    My line from royal Kúsa's race.
+    My sister--elder-born was she--
+    The pure and good Satyavatí,
+    Was to the great Richíka wed.
+    Still faithful to her husband dead,
+    She followed him, most noble dame,
+    And, raised to heaven in human frame,
+    A pure celestial stream became.
+    Down from Himálaya's snowy height,
+    In floods forever fair and bright,
+    My sister's holy waves are hurled
+    To purify and glad the world.
+    Now on Himálaya's side I dwell
+    Because I love my sister well.
+    She, for her faith and truth renowned,
+    Most loving to her husband found,
+    High-fated, firm in each pure vow,
+    Is queen of all the rivers now.
+    Bound by a vow I left her side
+    And to the Perfect convent hied.
+    There, by the aid 'twas thine to lend,
+    Made perfect, all my labors end.
+    Thus, mighty Prince, I now have told
+    My race and lineage, high and old,
+    And local tales of long ago
+    Which thou, O Ráma, fain wouldst know.
+    As I have sate rehearsing thus
+    The midnight hour is come on us.
+    Now, Ráma, sleep, that nothing may
+    Our journey of to-morrow stay.
+    No leaf on any tree is stirred--
+    Hushed in repose are beast and bird:
+    Where'er you turn, on every side,
+    Dense shades of night the landscape hide.
+    The light of eve is fled: the skies,
+    Thick-studded with their host of eyes,
+    Seem a star-forest overhead,
+    Where signs and constellations spread.
+    Now rises, with his pure cold ray,
+    The moon that drives the shades away,
+    And with his gentle influence brings
+    Joy to the hearts of living things.
+    Now, stealing from their lairs, appear
+    The beasts to whom the night is dear.
+    Now spirits walk, and every power
+    That revels in the midnight hour."
+
+    The mighty hermit's tale was o'er,
+    He closed his lips and spoke no more.
+    The holy men on every side,
+    "Well done! well done," with reverence cried,
+    "The mighty men of Kuśa's seed
+    Were ever famed for righteous deed.
+    Like Brahmá's self in glory shine
+    The high-souled lords of Kuśa's line.
+    And thy great name is sounded most,
+    O Saint, amid the noble host.
+    And thy dear sister--fairest she
+    Of streams, the high-born Kauśikí--
+    Diffusing virtue where she flows,
+    New splendor on thy lineage throws."
+    Thus by the chief of saints addressed
+    The son of Gádhi turned to rest;
+    So, when his daily course is done,
+    Sinks to his rest the beaming sun.
+    Ráma, with Lakshman, somewhat stirred
+    To marvel by the tales they heard,
+    Turned also to his couch, to close
+    His eyelids in desired repose.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXXVI
+
+THE BIRTH OF GANGÁ
+
+    The hours of night now waning fast
+    On Śona's pleasant shore they passed.
+    Then, when the dawn began to break.
+    To Ráma thus the hermit spake:--
+    "The light of dawn is breaking clear,
+    The hour of morning rites is near.
+    Rise, Ráma, rise, dear son, I pray,
+    And make thee ready for the way."
+    Then Ráma rose, and finished all
+    His duties at the hermit's call--
+    Prepared with joy the road to take,
+    And thus again in question spake:--
+    "Here fair and deep the Śona flows,
+    And many an isle its bosom shows:
+    What way, O Saint, will lead us o'er
+    And land us on the farther shore?"
+    The saint replied: "The way I choose
+    Is that which pious hermits use."
+    For many a league they journeyed on
+    Till, when the sun of mid-day shone,
+    The hermit-haunted flood was seen
+    Of Jáhnaví, the Rivers' Queen.
+    Soon as the holy stream they viewed,
+    Thronged with a white-winged multitude
+    Of sárases and swans, delight
+    Possessed them at the lovely sight;
+    And then prepared the hermit band
+    To halt upon that holy strand.
+    They bathed as Scripture bids, and paid
+    Oblations due to God and shade.
+    To Fire they burnt the offerings meet,
+    And sipped the oil, like Amrit sweet.
+    Then pure and pleased they sate around
+    Saint Viśvámitra, on the ground.
+    The holy men of lesser note,
+    In due degree, sate more remote,
+    While Raghu's sons took nearer place
+    By virtue of their rank and race.
+    Then Ráma said: "O Saint, I yearn
+    The three-pathed Gangá's tale to learn."
+
+    Thus urged, the sage recounted both
+    The birth of Gangá and her growth:--
+    "The mighty hill with metals stored,
+    Himálaya, is the mountains' lord,
+    The father of a lovely pair
+    Of daughters fairest of the fair--
+    Their mother, offspring of the will
+    Of Meru, everlasting hill,
+    Mená, Himálaya's darling, graced
+    With beauty of her dainty waist.
+    Gangá was elder-born:--then came
+    The fair one known by Umá's name.
+    Then all the Gods of heaven, in need
+    Of Gangá's help their vows to speed,
+    To great Himálaya came and prayed
+    The Mountain King to yield the maid.
+    He, not regardless of the weal
+    Of the three worlds, with holy zeal
+    His daughter to the Immortals gave,
+    Gangá whose waters cleanse and save--
+    Who roams at pleasure, fair and free,
+    Purging all sinners, to the sea.
+    The three-pathed Gangá thus obtained,
+    The Gods their heavenly homes regained.
+    Long time the sister Umá passed
+    In vows austere and rigid fast,
+    And the King gave the devotee
+    Immortal Rudra's bride to be--
+    Matching with that unequalled Lord
+    His Umá through the worlds adored.
+    So now a glorious station fills
+    Each daughter of the King of Hills--
+    One honored as the noblest stream,
+    One mid the Goddesses supreme.
+    Thus Gangá, King Himálaya's child,
+    The heavenly river, undefiled,
+    Rose bearing with her to the sky
+    Her waves that bless and purify."
+
+
+[_Cantos XXXVII and XXXVIII are omitted._]
+
+
+CANTO XXXIX
+
+THE SONS OF SAGAR
+
+    The saint in accents sweet and clear
+    Thus told his tale for Ráma's ear--
+    And thus anew the holy man
+    A legend to the prince began:--
+    "There reigned a pious monarch o'er
+    Ayodhyá in the days of yore:
+    Sagar his name:--no child had he,
+    And children much he longed to see.
+    His honored consort, fair of face,
+    Sprang from Vidarbha's royal race--
+    Keśiní, famed from early youth
+    For piety and love of truth.
+    Arishtanemi's daughter fair,
+    With whom no maiden might compare
+    In beauty, though the earth is wide,
+    Sumati, was his second bride.
+    With his two queens afar he went,
+    And weary days in penance spent,
+    Fervent, upon Himálaya's hill
+    Where springs the stream called Bhrigu's rill.
+    Nor did he fail that saint to please
+    With his devout austerities,
+    And, when a hundred years had fled,
+    Thus the most truthful Bhrigu said:--
+    'From thee, O Sagar, blameless King,
+    A mighty host of sons shall spring,
+    And thou shalt win a glorious name
+    Which none, O Chief, but thou shall claim.
+    One of thy queens a son shall bear
+    Maintainer of thy race and heir;
+    And of the other there shall be
+    Sons sixty thousand born to thee.'
+    Thus as he spake, with one accord,
+    To win the grace of that high lord,
+    The queens, with palms together laid,
+    In humble supplication prayed:--
+    'Which queen, O Bráhman, of the pair,
+    The many, or the one shall bear?
+    Most eager, Lord, are we to know,
+    And as thou sayest be it so,'
+    With his sweet speech the saint replied:--
+    'Yourselves, O Queens, the choice decide.
+    Your own discretion freely use
+    Which shall the one or many choose:
+    One shall the race and name uphold,
+    The host be famous, strong, and bold.
+    Which will have which?' Then Keśiní
+    The mother of one heir would be.
+    Sumati, sister of the King
+    Of all the birds that ply the wing,
+    To that illustrious Bráhman sued
+    That she might bear the multitude--
+    Whose fame throughout the world should sound
+    For mighty enterprise renowned.
+    Around the saint the monarch went,
+    Bowing his head, most reverent.
+    Then with his wives, with willing feet,
+    Resought his own imperial seat,
+    Time passed. The elder consort bare
+    A son called Asamanj, the heir.
+    Then Sumati, the younger, gave
+    Birth to a gourd, O hero brave,
+    Whose rind, when burst and cleft in two,
+    Gave sixty thousand babes to view.
+    All these with care the nurses laid
+    In jars of oil; and there they stayed,
+    Till, youthful age and strength complete,
+    Forth speeding from each dark retreat--
+    All peers in valor, years, and might,
+    The sixty thousand came to light.
+    Prince Asamanj, brought up with care,
+    Scourge of his foes, was made the heir.
+    But liegemen's boys he used to cast
+    To Sarjú's waves that hurried past--
+    Laughing the while in cruel glee
+    Their dying agonies to see.
+    This wicked prince who aye withstood
+    The counsel of the wise and good,
+    Who plagued the people in his hate,
+    His father banished from the state.
+    His son, kind-spoken, brave, and tall,
+    Was Anśumán, beloved of all.
+    Long years flew by. The King decreed
+    To slay a sacrificial steed.
+    Consulting with his priestly band
+    He vowed the rite his soul had planned,
+    And, Veda-skilled, by their advice
+    Made ready for the sacrifice."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XL
+
+THE CLEAVING OF THE EARTH
+
+    The hermit ceased--the tale was done:--
+    Then in a transport Raghu's son
+    Again addressed the ancient sire
+    Resplendent as a burning fire:--
+    "O holy man, I fain would hear
+    The tale repeated full and clear
+    How he from whom my sires descend
+    Brought the great rite to happy end,"
+    The hermit answered with a smile:--
+    "Then listen, son of Raghu, while
+    My legendary tale proceeds
+    To tell of high-souled Sagar's deeds.
+    Within the spacious plain that lies
+    From where Himálaya's heights arise
+    To where proud Vindhya's rival chain
+    Looks down upon the subject plain--
+    A land the best for rites declared--
+    His sacrifice the king prepared.
+    And Anśumán the prince--for so
+    Sagar advised--with ready bow
+    Was borne upon a mighty car
+    To watch the steed who roamed afar.
+    But Indra, monarch of the skies,
+    Veiling his form in demon guise,
+    Came down upon the appointed day
+    And drove the victim horse away.
+    Reft of the steed the priests, distressed,
+    The master of the rite addressed:--
+    'Upon the sacred day by force
+    A robber takes the victim horse.
+    Haste, King! now let the thief be slain;
+    Bring thou the charger back again:
+    The sacred rite prevented thus
+    Brings scathe and woe to all of us.
+    Rise, Monarch, and provide with speed
+    That nought its happy course impede.'
+
+    King Sagar in his crowded court
+    Gave ear unto the priests' report.
+    He summoned straightway to his side
+    His sixty thousand sons, and cried:--
+    'Brave sons of mine, I know not how
+    These demons are so mighty now--
+    The priests began the rite so well
+    All sanctified with prayer and spell.
+    If in the depths of earth he hide,
+    Or lurk beneath the ocean's tide,
+    Pursue, dear sons, the robber's track;
+    Slay him and bring the charger back.
+    The whole of this broad earth explore,
+    Sea-garlanded, from shore to shore:
+    Yea, dig her up with might and main
+    Until you see the horse again.
+    Deep let your searching labor reach,
+    A league in depth dug out by each.
+    The robber of our horse pursue,
+    And please your sire who orders you.
+    My grandson, I, this priestly train,
+    Till the steed comes, will here remain.'
+
+    Their eager hearts with transport burned
+    As to their task the heroes turned.
+    Obedient to their father, they
+    Through earth's recesses forced their way.
+    With iron arms' unflinching toil
+    Each dug a league beneath the soil.
+    Earth, cleft asunder, groaned in pain,
+    As emulous they plied amain--
+    Sharp-pointed coulter, pick, and bar,
+    Hard as the bolts of Indra are.
+    Then loud the horrid clamor rose
+    Of monsters dying 'neath their blows,
+    Giant and demon, fiend and snake,
+    That in earth's core their dwelling make.
+    They dug, in ire that nought could stay,
+    Through sixty thousand leagues their way--
+    Cleaving the earth with matchless strength
+    Till hell itself they reached at length.
+    Thus digging searched they Jambudvíp
+    With all its hills and mountains steep.
+    Then a great fear began to shake
+    The heart of God, bard, fiend, and snake--
+    And all distressed in spirit went
+    Before the Sire Omnipotent.
+    With signs of woe in every face
+    They sought the mighty Father's grace,
+    And trembling still and ill at ease
+    Addressed their Lord in words like these:--
+    'The sons of Sagar, Sire benign,
+    Pierce the whole earth with mine on mine,
+    And as their ruthless work they ply
+    Innumerable creatures die,'
+    'This is the thief,' the princes say,
+    'Who stole our victim steed away.
+    This marred the rite, and caused us ill.'
+    And so their guiltless blood they spill.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XLI
+
+KAPIL
+
+    "The Father lent a gracious ear
+    And listened to their tale of fear,
+    And kindly to the Gods replied
+    Whom woe and death had terrified:--
+    'The wisest Vásudeva, who
+    The Immortals' foe, fierce Madhu, slew,
+    Regards broad Earth with love and pride,
+    And guards, in Kapil's form, his bride.
+    His kindled wrath will quickly fall
+    On the King's sons and burn them all.
+    This cleaving of the earth his eye
+    Foresaw in ages long gone by:
+    He knew with prescient soul the fate
+    That Sagar's children should await.'
+    The Three-and-thirty, freed from fear,
+    Sought their bright homes with hopeful cheer.
+    Still rose the great tempestuous sound
+    As Sagar's children pierced the ground.
+    When thus the whole broad earth was cleft,
+    And not a spot unsearched was left,
+    Back to their home the princes sped,
+    And thus unto their father said:--
+    'We searched the earth from side to side,
+    While countless hosts of creatures died.
+    Our conquering feet in triumph trod
+    On snake and demon, fiend and God;
+    But yet we failed, with all our toil,
+    To find the robber and the spoil.
+    What can we more? If more we can,
+    Devise, O King, and tell thy plan,'
+    His children's speech King Sagar heard,
+    And answered thus, to anger stirred:--
+    'Dig on, and ne'er your labor stay
+    Till through earth's depths you force your way.
+    Then smite the robber dead, and bring
+    The charger back with triumphing.'
+
+    The sixty thousand chiefs obeyed--
+    Deep through the earth their way they made.
+    Deep as they dug and deeper yet
+    The immortal elephant they met--
+    Famed Virúpáksha vast of size,
+    Upon whose head the broad earth lies:
+    The mighty beast who earth sustains
+    With shaggy hills and wooded plains.
+    When, with the changing moon, distressed,
+    And longing for a moment's rest,
+    His mighty head the monster shakes,
+    Earth to the bottom reels and quakes.
+    Around that warder strong and vast
+    With reverential steps they passed--
+    Nor, when the honor due was paid,
+    Their downward search through earth delayed.
+    But turning from the east aside
+    Southward again their task they plied.
+    There Mahápadma held his place,
+    The best of all his mighty race--
+    Like some huge hill, of monstrous girth,
+    Upholding on his head the earth.
+    When the vast beast the princes saw,
+    They marvelled and were filled with awe.
+    The sons of high-souled Sagar round
+    That elephant in reverence wound.
+    Then in the western region they
+    With might unwearied cleft their way.
+    There saw they with astonished eyes
+    Saumanas, beast of mountain size.
+    Round him with circling steps they went
+    With greetings kind and reverent.
+    On, on--no thought of rest or stay--
+    They reached the seat of Soma's sway.
+    There saw they Bhadra, white as snow,
+    With lucky marks that fortune show,
+    Bearing the earth upon his head.
+    Round him they paced with solemn tread,
+    And honored him with greetings kind;
+    Then downward yet their way they mined.
+    They gained the tract 'twixt east and north
+    Whose fame is ever blazoned forth,
+    And by a storm of rage impelled,
+    Digging through earth their course they held.
+    Then all the princes, lofty-souled,
+    Of wondrous vigor, strong and bold,
+    Saw Vásudeva standing there
+    In Kapil's form he loved to wear,
+    And near the everlasting God
+    The victim charger cropped the sod.
+    They saw with joy and eager eyes
+    The fancied robber and the prize,
+    And on him rushed the furious band
+    Crying aloud, 'Stand, villain! stand!'
+    'Avaunt! avaunt!' great Kapil cried,
+    His bosom flushed with passion's tide;
+    Then by his might that proud array
+    All scorched to heaps of ashes lay.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XLII
+
+SAGAR'S SACRIFICE
+
+    Then to the prince his grandson, bright
+    With his own fame's unborrowed light,
+    King Sagar thus began to say,
+    Marvelling at his sons' delay:--
+    'Thou art a warrior skilled and bold,
+    Match for the mighty men of old.
+    Now follow on thine uncles' course
+    And track the robber of the horse.
+    To guard thee take thy sword and bow,
+    For huge and strong are beasts below.
+    There to the reverend reverence pay,
+    And kill the foes who check thy way;
+    Then turn successful home and see
+    My sacrifice complete through thee.'
+
+    Obedient to the high-souled lord
+    Grasped Anśumán his bow and sword,
+    And hurried forth the way to trace
+    With youth and valor's eager pace.
+    On sped he by the path he found
+    Dug by his uncles underground.
+    The warder elephant he saw
+    Whose size and strength pass Nature's law--
+    Who bears the world's tremendous weight,
+    Whom God, fiend, giant, venerate.
+    Bird, serpent, and each flitting shade,
+    To him the honor meet he paid--
+    With circling steps and greeting due,
+    And further prayed him, if he knew,
+    To tell him of his uncles' weal,
+    And who had dared the horse to steal.
+
+    To him in war and council tried
+    The warder elephant replied:--
+    'Thou, son of Asamanj, shalt lead
+    In triumph back the rescued steed,'
+
+    As to each warder beast he came
+    And questioned all, his words the same,
+    The honored youth with gentle speech
+    Drew eloquent reply from each--
+    That fortune should his steps attend,
+    And with the horse he home should wend.
+    Cheered with the grateful answer, he
+    Passed on with step more light and free,
+    And reached with careless heart the place
+    Where lay in ashes Sagar's race.
+    Then sank the spirit of the chief
+    Beneath that shock of sudden grief--
+    And with a bitter cry of woe
+    He mourned his kinsmen fallen so.
+    He saw, weighed down by woe and care,
+    The victim charger roaming there.
+    Yet would the pious chieftain fain
+    Oblations offer to the slain:
+    But, needing water for the rite,
+    He looked and there was none in sight.
+    His quick eye searching all around
+    The uncle of his kinsmen found--
+    King Garud, best beyond compare
+    Of birds who wing the fields of air.
+    Then thus unto the weeping man
+    The son of Vinatá began:--
+    'Grieve not, O hero, for their fall
+    Who died a death approved of all.
+    Of mighty strength, they met their fate
+    By Kapil's hand whom none can mate.
+    Pour forth for them no earthly wave,
+    A holier flood their spirits crave.
+    If, daughter of the Lord of Snow,
+    Gangá would turn her stream below,
+    Her waves that cleanse all mortal stain
+    Would wash their ashes pure again.
+    Yea, when her flood whom all revere
+    Rolls o'er the dust that moulders here,
+    The sixty thousand, freed from sin,
+    A home in Indra's heaven shall win.
+    Go, and with ceaseless labor try
+    To draw the Goddess from the sky.
+    Return, and with thee take the steed;
+    So shall thy grandsire's rite succeed,'
+
+    Prince Anśumán the strong and brave
+    Followed the rede Suparna gave.
+    The glorious hero took the horse,
+    And homeward quickly bent his course.
+    Straight to the anxious King he hied,
+    Whom lustral rites had purified--
+    The mournful story to unfold
+    And all the King of birds had told.
+    The tale of woe the monarch heard,
+    No longer was the rite deferred:
+    With care and just observance he
+    Accomplished all, as texts decree.
+    The rites performed, with brighter fame,
+    Mighty in counsel, home he came.
+    He longed to bring the river down,
+    But found no plan his wish to crown.
+    He pondered long with anxious thought,
+    But saw no way to what he sought.
+    Thus thirty thousand years he spent,
+    And then to heaven the monarch went.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XLIII
+
+BHAGÍRATH
+
+    "When Sagar thus had bowed to fate,
+    The lords and commons of the state
+    Approved with ready heart and will
+    Prince Anśumán his throne to fill.
+    He ruled, a mighty king, unblamed,
+    Sire of Dilípa justly famed.
+    To him, his child and worthy heir,
+    The King resigned his kingdom's care,
+    And on Himálaya's pleasant side
+    His task austere of penance plied.
+    Bright as a God in clear renown
+    He planned to bring pure Gangá down.
+    There on his fruitless hope intent
+    Twice sixteen thousand years he spent,
+    And in the grove of hermits stayed
+    Till bliss in heaven his rites repaid.
+    Dilípa then, the good and great,
+    Soon as he learnt his kinsmen's fate,
+    Bowed down by woe, with troubled mind.
+    Pondering long no cure could find.
+    'How can I bring,' the mourner sighed,
+    'To cleanse their dust, the heavenly tide?
+    How can I give them rest, and save
+    Their spirits with the offered wave?'
+    Long with this thought his bosom skilled
+    In holy discipline was filled.
+    A son was born, Bhagírath named,
+    Above all men for virtue famed.
+    Dilípa many a rite ordained,
+    And thirty thousand seasons reigned.
+    But when no hope the king could see
+    His kinsmen from their woe to free,
+    The lord of men, by sickness tried,
+    Obeyed the law of fate, and died;
+    He left the kingdom to his son,
+    And gained the heaven his deeds had won.
+    The good Bhagírath, royal sage,
+    Had no fair son to cheer his age.
+    He, great in glory, pure in will,
+    Longing for sons was childless still.
+    Then on one wish, one thought intent,
+    Planning the heavenly stream's descent,
+    Leaving his ministers the care
+    And burden of his state to bear--
+    Dwelling in far Gokarna he
+    Engaged in long austerity.
+    With senses checked, with arms upraised,
+    Five fires around and o'er him blazed.
+    Each weary month the hermit passed
+    Breaking but once his awful fast.
+    In winter's chill the brook his bed,
+    In rain, the clouds to screen his head.
+    Thousands of years he thus endured
+    Till Brahmá's favor was assured--
+    And the high Lord of living things
+    Looked kindly on his sufferings.
+    With trooping Gods the Sire came near
+    The King who plied his task austere:--
+    'Blest Monarch, of a glorious race,
+    Thy fervent rites have won my grace.
+    Well hast thou wrought thine awful task,
+    Some boon in turn, O Hermit, ask.'
+
+    Bhagírath, rich in glory's light,
+    The hero with the arm of might,
+    Thus to the Lord of earth and sky
+    Raised suppliant hands and made reply:--
+    'If the great God his favor deigns,
+    And my long toil its fruit obtains,
+    Let Sagar's sons receive from me
+    Libations that they long to see.
+    Let Gangá with her holy wave
+    The ashes of the heroes lave--
+    That so my kinsmen may ascend
+    To heavenly bliss that ne'er shall end.
+    And give, I pray, O God, a son,
+    Nor let my house be all undone.
+    Sire of the worlds! be this the grace
+    Bestowed upon Ikshváku's race,'
+    The Sire, when thus the King had prayed,
+    In sweet kind words his answer made:--
+    'High, high thy thought and wishes are,
+    Bhagírath of the mighty car!
+    Ikshváku's line is blest in thee,
+    And as thou prayest it shall be.
+    Gangá, whose waves in Swarga flow,
+    Is daughter of the Lord of Snow.
+    Win Śiva that his aid be lent
+    To hold her in her mid-descent--
+    For earth alone will never bear
+    Those torrents hurled from upper air;
+    And none may hold her weight but He,
+    The Trident-wielding deity,'
+    Thus having said, the Lord supreme
+    Addressed him to the heavenly stream;
+    And then with Gods and Maruts went
+    To heaven, above the firmament."
+
+
+
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ
+
+BY
+
+KÁLIDÁSA
+
+
+
+[_Translation by Sir Monier Monier-Williams_]
+
+
+INTRODUCTION
+
+
+The drama is always the latest development of a national poetry--for the
+origin of poetry is in the religious rite, where the hymn or the ode is
+used to celebrate the glories of some divinity, or some hero who has
+been received into the circle of the gods. This at least is the case in
+Sanscrit as in Greek literature, where the hymn and ballad precede the
+epic. The epic poem becomes the stable form of poetry during the middle
+period in the history of literature, both in India and Greece. The union
+of the lyric and the epic produces the drama. The speeches uttered by
+the heroes in such poems as the "Iliad" are put into the mouths of real
+personages who appear in sight of the audience and represent with
+fitting gestures and costumes the characters of the story. The dialogue
+is interspersed with songs or odes, which reach their perfection in the
+choruses of Sophocles.
+
+The drama is undoubtedly the most intellectual, as it is the most
+artificial, form of poetry. The construction of the plot, and the
+arrangement of the action, give room for the most thoughtful and
+deliberate display of genius. In this respect the Greek drama stands
+forth as most philosophically perfect. The drama, moreover, has always
+been by far the most popular form of poetry; because it aids, as much as
+possible, the imagination of the auditor, and for distinctness and
+clearness of impression stands preëminent above both the epic narrative
+and the emotional description of the lyric.
+
+The drama in India appears to have been a perfectly indigenous creation,
+although it was of very late development, and could not have appeared
+even so early as the Alexandrian pastorals which marked the last phase
+of Greek poetry. When it did appear, it never took the perfect form of
+the drama at Athens. It certainly borrowed as little from Greece as it
+did from China or Japan, and the Persians and Arabians do not appear to
+have produced any dramatic masterpieces. The greatest of dramatists in
+the Sanscrit language is undoubtedly Kálidása, whose date is placed, by
+different scholars, anywhere from the first to the fifth century of our
+era. His masterpiece, and indeed the masterpiece of the Indian drama, is
+the "Śakoontalá," which has all the graces as well as most of the faults
+of Oriental poetry. There can be no doubt that to most Europeans the
+charm of it lies in the exquisite description of natural scenery and of
+that atmosphere of piety and religious calm--almost mediaeval in its
+austere beauty and serenity--which invests the hermit life of India. The
+abode of the ascetics is depicted with a pathetic grace that we only
+find paralleled in the "Admetus" of Euripides. But at the same time the
+construction of the drama is more like such a play as Milton's "Comus,"
+than the closely-knit, symmetrical, and inevitable progress of such a
+work of consummate skill as the "King Oedipus" of Sophocles. Emotion,
+and generally the emotion of love, is the motive in the "Śakoontalá" of
+Kálidása, and different phases of feeling, rather than the struggles of
+energetic action, lead on to the _dénouement_ of the play. The
+introduction of supernatural agencies controlling the life of the
+personages, leaves very little room for the development and description
+of human character. As the fate of the hero is dependent altogether upon
+the caprice of superhuman powers, the moral elements of a drama are but
+faintly discernible. Thus the central action of Śakoontalá hinges on the
+fact that the heroine, absorbed in thoughts of love, neglects to welcome
+with due respect the great saint Durvasas--certainly a trifling and
+venial fault--but he is represented as blighting her with a curse which
+results in all the unhappiness of the drama, and which is only ended at
+last by the intervention of a more powerful being. By this principle of
+construction the characters are reduced to mere shadow creations:
+beautiful as arabesques, delicate as a piece of ivory carving, tinted
+like the flat profiles of an Oriental fan or the pattern of a porcelain
+vase, but deficient in robustness and vigorous coloring. Humanity is
+absolutely dwarfed and its powers rendered inoperative by the crowd of
+supernatural creatures that control its destiny. Even in the "Tempest"
+of Shakespeare, in which the supernatural plays a greater part than in
+any other English drama, the strength and nobility of human character
+are allowed full play--and man in his fortitude, in his intellect and
+will, even more than in his emotions, keeps full possession of the
+stage, and imparts a reality to every scene which makes the wildest
+flight of fancy bear a real relation to the common experiences of human
+life.
+
+The "Śakoontalá" is divided into seven acts, and is a mixture of prose
+and verse;--each character rising in the intensity of emotional
+utterance into bursts of lyric poetry. The first act introduces the King
+of India, Dushyanta, armed with bow and arrows, in a chariot with his
+driver. They are passing through a forest in pursuit of a black
+antelope, which they fail to overtake before the voice of some hermit
+forbids them to slay the creature as it belongs to the hermitage. The
+king piously desists and reaches the hermitage of the great saint Kanwa,
+who has left his companions in charge of his foster-daughter,
+Śakoontalá, while he is bound on a pilgrimage. Following these hermits
+the king finds himself within the precincts of a sacred grove, where
+rice is strewn on the ground to feed the parrots that nest in the hollow
+trunks, and where the unterrified antelopes do not start at the human
+voice. The king stops his chariot and alights, so as not to disturb the
+dwellers in the holy wood. He feels a sudden throb in his right arm,
+which augurs happy love, and sees hermit maidens approaching to sprinkle
+the young shrubs, with watering-pots suited to their strength. The forms
+of these hermit maidens eclipse those found in queenly halls, as the
+luxuriance of forest vines excels the trim vineyards of cultivation.
+Amongst these maidens the king, concealed by the trees, observes
+Śakoontalá, dressed in the bark garment of a hermit--like a blooming bud
+enclosed within a sheath of yellow leaves. When she stands by the
+_keśara_-tree, the king is impressed by her beauty, and regrets that she
+is, if of a purely Bráhmanic origin, forbidden to marry one of the
+warrior class, even though he be a king. A very pretty description is
+given of the pursuit of Śakoontalá by a bee which her sprinkling has
+startled from a jasmine flower. From this bee she is rescued by the
+king, and is dismayed to find that the sight of the stranger affects her
+with an emotion unsuited to the holy grove. She hurries off with her two
+companions, but as she goes she declares that a prickly _kusa_-grass has
+stung her foot; a _kuruvaka_-bush has caught her garment, and while her
+companions disentangle it, she takes a long look at the king, who
+confesses that he cannot turn his mind from Śakoontalá. This is the
+opening episode of their love.
+
+The second act introduces the king's jester, a Bráhman on confidential
+terms with his master, who, while Dushyanta is thinking of love, is
+longing to get back to the city. He is tired of the hot jungle, the
+nauseating water of bitter mountain streams, the racket of fowlers at
+early dawn, and the eternal galloping, by which his joints are bruised.
+The king is equally tired of hunting, and confesses that he cannot bend
+his bow against those fawns which dwell near Śakoontalá's abode, and
+have taught their tender glance to her. He calls back the beaters sent
+out to surround the forest, takes off his hunting-suit, and talks to the
+jester about the charms of Śakoontalá--whom the Creator, he says, has
+formed by gathering in his mind all lovely shapes, so as to make a
+peerless woman-gem. He recalls the glance which she shot at him as she
+cried, "a _kusha-grass_ has stung my foot." Meanwhile two hermits
+approach him with the news that the demons have taken advantage of
+Kanwa's absence to disturb the sacrifices. They request him to take up
+his abode in the grove for a few days, in order to vanquish the enemies.
+A messenger arrives to tell him that his mother, in four days, will be
+offering a solemn sacrifice for her son's welfare, and invites his
+presence at the rite. But he cannot leave Śakoontalá, and sends the
+jester Máthavya in his stead, telling him to say nothing about his love
+for Śakoontalá.
+
+In the third act the love of the king and the hermit girl reaches its
+climax. The king is found walking in the hermitage, invoking the God of
+Love, whose shafts are flowers, though the flowery darts are hard as
+steel. "Mighty God of Love, hast Thou no pity on me?" What better
+relief, he asks, than the sight of my beloved? He traces Śakoontalá, by
+the broken tubes which bore the blossoms she had culled, to the arbor,
+enclosed by the plantation of canes, and shaded by vines, at whose
+entrance he observes in the sand the track of recent footsteps. Peering
+through the branches, he perceives her reclining on a stone seat strewn
+with flowers. Her two companions are with her, and she is sick unto
+death. The king notices that her cheeks are wasted, her breasts less
+swelling, her slender waist more slender, her roseate hue has grown
+pale, and she seems like some poor _madhave_ creeper touched by winds
+that have scorched its leaves. Her companions anxiously inquire the
+cause of her sickness, and, after much hesitation, she reveals her love
+by inscribing a poem, with her fingernail, on a lotus leaf smooth as a
+parrot's breast. The king hears the avowal of her love, rushes in to
+her, and declares his passion: adding that daughters of a royal saint
+have often been wedded by _Gandharva_ rites, without ceremonies or
+parental consent, yet have not forfeited the father's blessing. He thus
+overcomes her scruples. Gautamí, the matron of the hermitage, afterwards
+enters, and asks, "My child, is your fever allayed?" "Venerable mother,"
+is the reply, "I feel a grateful change." As the king sits in solitude
+that evening in the deserted arbor, he hears a voice outside, uttering
+the verses--"The evening rites have begun; but, dark as the clouds of
+night, the demons are swarming round the altar fires." With these words
+of ill-omen the third act comes to an end.
+
+The fourth act describes the fulfilment of this evil omen. The king has
+now returned to the city, and has given Śakoontalá a signet ring, with
+an inscription on it, pronouncing that after there have elapsed as many
+days as there are letters in this inscription he will return. As the two
+maiden companions of Śakoontalá are culling flowers in the garden of the
+hermitage, they hear a voice exclaiming, "It is I! give heed!" This is
+the great Durvasas, whom Śakoontalá, lost in thoughts of her absent
+husband, has neglected at once to go forth to welcome. The voice from
+behind the scenes is soon after heard uttering a curse--"Woe unto her
+who is thus neglectful of a guest," and declaring that Dushyanta, of
+whom alone she is thinking, regardless of the presence of a pious saint,
+shall forget her in spite of all his love, as the wine-bibber forgets
+his delirium. The Hindoo saint is here described in all his arrogance
+and cruelty. One of the maidens says that he who had uttered the curse
+is now retiring with great strides, quivering with rage--for his wrath
+is like a consuming fire. A pretty picture is given of Śakoontalá, who
+carries on her finger the signet ring, which has the virtue of restoring
+the king's love, if ever he should forget her. "There sits our beloved
+friend," cries one of the maidens: "motionless as a picture; her cheek
+supported by her left hand, so absorbed in thoughts of her absent lover
+that she is unconscious of her own self--how much more of a passing
+stranger?"
+
+In the fourth act there is an exquisite description of the return of
+Kanwa from his pilgrimage, and the preparations for the start of
+Śakoontalá for her husband's palace, in the city. The delicate pathos of
+the scene is worthy of Euripides. "Alas! Alas!" exclaim the two maidens,
+"Now Śakoontalá has disappeared behind the trees of the forest. Tell us,
+master, how shall we enter again the sacred grove made desolate by her
+departure?" But the holy calm, broken for a moment by the excitement of
+his child's departure, is soon restored to Kanwa's mind. "Now that my
+child is dismissed to her husband's home, tranquillity regains my soul."
+The closing reflection is worthy of a Greek dramatist: "Our maids we
+rear for the happiness of others; and now that I have sent her to her
+husband I feel the satisfaction that comes from restoring a trust."
+
+In the fifth act, the scene is laid in Dushyanta's palace, where the
+king is living, under the curse of Durvasas, in complete oblivion of
+Śakoontalá. The life of the court is happily suggested, with its
+intrigues and its business. The king has yet a vague impression of
+restlessness, which, on hearing a song sung behind the scenes, prompts
+him to say, "Why has this strain flung over me so deep a melancholy, as
+though I was separated from some loved one; can this be the faint
+remembrance of affections in some previous existence?" It is here that
+the hermits, with Gautamí, arrive, bringing Śakoontalá, soon to be made
+a mother, into the presence of the king; but she has been utterly
+forgotten by him. He angrily denies his marriage; and when she proposes
+to bring forth the ring, she finds she has lost it from her finger. "It
+must have slipped off," suggested Gautamí, "when thou wast offering
+homage to Śachí's holy lake." The king smiles derisively. Śakoontalá
+tries to quicken his memory:--"Do you remember how, in the jasmine
+bower, you poured water from the lotus cup into the hollow of my hand?
+Do you remember how you said to my little fawn, Drink first, but she
+shrunk from you--and drank water from my hand, and you said, with a
+smile, 'Like trusts Like,' for you are two sisters in the same grove."
+The king calls her words "honeyed falsehoods." Śakoontalá buries her
+face in her mantle and bursts into tears.
+
+The tenderness of this scene, its grace and delicacy, are quite idyllic,
+and worthy of the best ages of the pastoral drama. The ring is at
+length restored to Dushyanta, having been found by a fisherman in the
+belly of a carp. On its being restored to the king's finger, he is
+overcome with a flood of recollection: he gives himself over to mourning
+and forbids the celebration of the Spring festival. He admits that his
+palsied heart had been slumbering, and that, now it is roused by
+memories of his fawn-eyed love, he only wakes to agonies of remorse.
+Meanwhile Śakoontalá had been carried away like a celestial nymph to the
+sacred grove of Kaśyapa, far removed from earth in the upper air. The
+king, being summoned by Indra to destroy the brood of giants,
+descendants of Kalamemi, the monster of a hundred arms and heads,
+reaches in the celestial car Indra, the grove where dwell his wife and
+child, an heroic boy whom the hermits call Sarva-damana--the all-tamer.
+The recognition and reconciliation of husband and wife are delineated
+with the most delicate skill, and the play concludes with a prayer to
+Shiva.
+
+E.W.
+
+DRAMATIS PERSONÆ
+
+DUSHYANTA, King of India.
+
+MÁTHAVYA, the Jester, friend and companion of the King.
+
+KANWA, chief of the Hermits, foster-father of Śakoontalá.
+
+SÁRNGARAVA, SÁRADWATA, two Bráhmans, belonging to the hermitage of
+Kanwa.
+
+MITRÁVASU, brother-in-law of the King, and Superintendent of the city
+police.
+
+JÁNUKA, SÚCHAKA, two constables.
+
+VÁTÁYANA, the Chamberlain or attendant on the women's apartments.
+
+SOMARÁTA, the domestic Priest.
+
+KARABHAKA, a messenger of the Queen-mother.
+
+RAIVATAKA, the warder or door-keeper.
+
+MÁTALI, charioteer of Indra.
+
+SARVA-DAMANA, afterwards Bharata, a little boy, son of Dushyanta by
+Śakoontalá.
+
+KAŚYAPA, a divine sage, progenitor of men and gods, son of Maríchi and
+grandson of Brahmá.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ, daughter of the sage Viśwámitra and the nymph Menaká,
+foster-child of the hermit Kanwa.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ and ANASÚYÁ, female attendants, companions of Śakoontalá.
+
+GAUTAMÍ, a holy matron, Superior of the female inhabitants of the
+hermitage.
+
+VASUMATÍ, the Queen of Dushyanta.
+
+SÁNUMATÍ, a nymph, friend of Śakoontalá.
+
+TARALIKÁ, personal attendant of the King.
+
+CHATURIKÁ, personal attendant of the Queen.
+
+VETRAVATÍ, female warder, or door-keeper.
+
+PARABARITIKÁ and MADHUKARIKÁ, maidens in charge of the royal gardens.
+
+SUVRATÁ, a nurse.
+
+ADITI, wife of Kaśyapa; grand-daughter of Brahmá, through her father,
+Daksha.
+
+Charioteer, Fisherman, Officers, and Hermits.
+
+
+RULES FOR PRONUNCIATION OF PROPER NAMES
+
+Observe, that in order to secure the correct pronunciation of the title
+of this Drama, "Śakuntalá" has been spelt "Śa-koontalá," the _u_ being
+pronounced like the _u_ in the English word _rule_.
+
+The vowel _a_ must invariably be pronounced with a dull sound, like the
+_a_ in _organ_, or the _u_ in _fun, sun. Dushyanta_ must therefore be
+pronounced as if written _Dooshyunta_. The long vowel _a_ is pronounced
+like the _a_ in _last, cart; i_ like the _i_ in _pin, sin_; _í_ like the
+_i_ in _marine; e_ like the _e_ in _prey; o_ like the _o_ in _so; ai_
+like the _ai_ in _aisle; au_ like _au_ in the German word _baum_, or
+like the _ou_ in _our_.
+
+The consonants are generally pronounced as in English, but _g_ has
+always the sound of _g_ in _gun, give_, never of _g_ in _gin. S_ with
+the accent over it (ś) has the sound of _s_ in _sure_, or of the last
+_s_ in _session_.
+
+
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ
+
+PROLOGUE
+
+Benediction
+
+    Iśa preserve you! he who is revealed
+    In these eight forms by man perceptible--
+    Water, of all creation's works the first;
+    The fire that bears on high the sacrifice
+    Presented with solemnity to heaven;
+    The Priest, the holy offerer of gifts;
+    The Sun and Moon, those two majestic orbs,
+    Eternal marshallers of day and night;
+    The subtle Ether, vehicle of sound,
+    Diffused throughout the boundless universe;
+    The Earth, by sages called "The place of birth
+    Of all material essences and things";
+    And Air, which giveth life to all that breathe.
+
+STAGE-MANAGER [_after the recitation of the benediction, looking towards
+the tiring-room._]--Lady, when you have finished attiring yourself, come
+this way.
+
+ACTRESS [_entering._]--Here I am, Sir; what are your commands?
+
+STAGE-MANAGER.--We are here before the eyes of an audience of educated
+and discerning men; and have to represent in their presence a new drama
+composed by Kálidása, called "Śakoontalá, or the Lost Ring." Let the
+whole company exert themselves to do justice to their several parts.
+
+ACTRESS,--You, Sir, have so judiciously managed the cast of the
+characters, that nothing will be defective in the acting.
+
+STAGE-MANAGER.--Lady, I will tell you the exact state of the case.
+    No skill in acting can I deem complete,
+    Till from the wise the actor gain applause:
+    Know that the heart e'en of the truly skilful,
+    Shrinks from too boastful confidence in self.
+
+ACTRESS [_modestly_].--You judge correctly. And now, what are your
+commands?
+
+STAGE-MANAGER.--What can you do better than engage the attention of the
+audience by some captivating melody?
+
+ACTRESS.--Which among the seasons shall I select as the subject of my
+song?
+
+STAGE-MANAGER.--You surely ought to give the preference to the present
+Summer season that has but recently commenced, a season so rich in
+enjoyment. For now
+    Unceasing are the charms of halcyon days,
+    When the cool bath exhilarates the frame;
+    When sylvan gales are laden with the scent
+    Of fragrant Pátalas; when soothing sleep
+    Creeps softly on beneath the deepening shade;
+    And when, at last, the dulcet calm of eve
+    Entrancing steals o'er every yielding sense.
+
+ACTRESS.--I will. [_Sings._
+    Fond maids, the chosen of their hearts to please,
+      Entwine their ears with sweet Śirísha flowers,
+    Whose fragrant lips attract the kiss of bees
+      That softly murmur through the summer hours.
+
+STAGE-MANAGER.--Charmingly sung! The audience are motionless as statues,
+their souls riveted by the enchanting strain. What subject shall we
+select for representation, that we may insure a continuance of their
+favor?
+
+ACTRESS.--Why not the same, Sir, announced by you at first? Let the
+drama called "Śakoontalá, or the Lost Ring," be the subject of our
+dramatic performance.
+
+STAGE-MANAGER.--Rightly reminded! For the moment I had forgotten it.
+    Your song's transporting melody decoyed
+    My thoughts, and rapt with ecstasy my soul;
+    As now the bounding antelope allures
+    The King Dushyanta on the chase intent. [_Exeunt._
+
+
+
+
+ACT FIRST
+
+Scene.--A Forest
+
+
+_Enter King Dushyanta, armed with a bow and arrow, in a chariot, chasing
+an antelope, attended by his Charioteer_.
+
+CHARIOTEER [_looking at the deer, and then at the King_].--
+Great Prince,
+    When on the antelope I bend my gaze,
+    And on your Majesty, whose mighty bow
+    Has its string firmly braced; before my eyes
+    The god that wields the trident seems revealed,
+    Chasing the deer that flies from him in vain.
+
+KING.--Charioteer, this fleet antelope has drawn us far from my
+attendants. See! there he runs:--
+    Aye and anon his graceful neck he bends
+    To cast a glance at the pursuing car;
+    And dreading now the swift-descending shaft,
+    Contracts into itself his slender frame:
+    About his path, in scattered fragments strewn,
+    The half-chewed grass falls from his panting mouth;
+    See! in his airy bounds he seems to fly,
+    And leaves no trace upon th'elastic turf.
+          [_With astonishment_.
+How now! swift as is our pursuit, I scarce can see him.
+
+CHARIOTEER.--Sire, the ground here is full of hollows; I have therefore
+drawn in the reins and checked the speed of the chariot. Hence the deer
+has somewhat gained upon us. Now that we are passing over level ground,
+we shall have no difficulty in overtaking him.
+
+KING.--Loosen the reins, then.
+
+CHARIOTEER.--The King is obeyed. [_Drives the chariot at full speed_.]
+Great Prince, see! see!
+    Responsive to the slackened rein, the steeds
+    Chafing with eager rivalry, career
+    With emulative fleetness o'er the plain;
+    Their necks outstretched, their waving plumes, that late
+    Fluttered above their brows, are motionless;
+    Their sprightly ears, but now erect, bent low;
+    Themselves unsullied by the circling dust,
+    That vainly follows on their rapid course.
+
+KING [_joyously_].--In good sooth, the horses seem as if they would
+outstrip the steeds of Indra and the Sun.[33]
+    That which but now showed to my view minute
+    Quickly assumes dimension; that which seemed
+    A moment since disjoined in diverse parts,
+    Looks suddenly like one compacted whole;
+    That which is really crooked in its shape
+    In the far distance left, grows regular;
+    Wondrous the chariot's speed, that in a breath,
+    Makes the near distant and the distant near.
+
+Now, Charioteer, see me kill the deer. [_Takes aim_.
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--Hold, O King! this deer belongs to our
+hermitage. Kill it not! kill it not!
+
+CHARIOTEER [_listening and looking_].--Great King, some hermits have
+stationed themselves so as to screen the antelope at the very moment of
+its coming within range of your arrow.
+
+KING [_hastily_].--Then stop the horses.
+
+CHARIOTEER.--I obey. [_Stops the chariot_.
+
+_Enter a Hermit, and two others with him_.
+
+HERMIT [_raising his hand_].--This deer, O King, belongs to our
+hermitage. Kill it not! kill it not!
+    Now heaven forbid this barbèd shaft descend
+    Upon the fragile body of a fawn,
+    Like fire upon a heap of tender flowers!
+    Can thy steel bolts no meeter quarry find
+    Than the warm life-blood of a harmless deer?
+    Restore, great Prince, thy weapon to its quiver;
+    More it becomes thy arms to shield the weak,
+    Than to bring anguish on the innocent.
+
+KING.--'Tis done. [_Replaces the arrow in its quiver_.
+
+HERMIT.--Worthy is this action of a Prince, the light of Puru's race.
+    Well does this act befit a Prince like thee,
+    Right worthy is it of thine ancestry.
+    Thy guerdon be a son of peerless worth,
+    Whose wide dominion shall embrace the earth.
+
+BOTH THE OTHER HERMITS [_raising their hands_].--May heaven indeed grant
+thee a son, a sovereign of the earth from sea to sea!
+
+KING [_bowing._]--I accept with gratitude a Bráhman's benediction.
+
+HERMIT.--We came hither, mighty Prince, to collect sacrificial wood.
+Here on the banks of the Máliní you may perceive the hermitage of the
+great sage Kanwa. If other duties require not your presence, deign to
+enter and accept our hospitality.
+    When you behold our penitential rites
+    Performed without impediment by Saints
+    Rich only in devotion, then with pride
+    Will you reflect, Such are the holy men
+    Who call me Guardian; such the men for whom
+    To wield the bow I bare my nervous arm,
+    Scarred by the motion of the glancing string.
+
+KING.--Is the Chief of your Society now at home?
+
+HERMIT.--No; he has gone to Soma-tírtha to propitiate Destiny, which
+threatens his daughter Śakoontalá with some calamity; but he has
+commissioned her in his absence to entertain all guests with
+hospitality.
+
+KING.--Good! I will pay her a visit. She will make me acquainted with
+the mighty sage's acts of penance and devotion.
+
+HERMIT.--And we will depart on our errand.
+          [_Exit with his companions_.
+
+KING.--Charioteer, urge on the horses. We will at least purify our souls
+by a sight of this hallowed retreat.
+
+CHARIOTEER.--Your Majesty is obeyed.
+          [_Drives the chariot with great velocity_.
+
+KING [_looking all about him_].--Charioteer, even without being told, I
+should have known that these were the precincts of a grove consecrated
+to penitential rites.
+
+CHARIOTEER.--How so?
+
+KING.--Do not you observe?
+    Beneath the trees, whose hollow trunks afford
+    Secure retreat to many a nestling brood
+    Of parrots, scattered grains of rice lie strewn.
+    Lo! here and there are seen the polished slabs
+    That serve to bruise the fruit of Ingudí.
+    The gentle roe-deer, taught to trust in man,
+    Unstartled hear our voices. On the paths
+    Appear the traces of bark-woven vests
+    Borne dripping from the limpid fount of waters.
+    And mark! Laved are the roots of trees by deep canals,
+    Whose glassy waters tremble in the breeze;
+    The sprouting verdure of the leaves is dimmed
+    By dusky wreaths of upward curling smoke
+    From burnt oblations; and on new-mown lawns
+    Around our car graze leisurely the fawns.
+
+CHARIOTEER.--I observe it all.
+
+KING [_advancing a little further_].--The inhabitants of this sacred
+retreat must not be disturbed. Stay the chariot, that I may alight.
+
+CHARIOTEER.--The reins are held in. Your Majesty may descend.
+
+KING [_alighting_].--Charioteer, groves devoted to penance must be
+entered in humble attire. Take these ornaments.
+[_Delivers his ornaments and bow to the Charioteer_.]
+Charioteer, see that the horses are watered, and attend to them until I
+return from visiting the inhabitants of the hermitage.
+
+CHARIOTEER.--I will.          [_Exit_.
+
+KING [_walking and looking about_].--Here is the entrance to the
+hermitage. I will now go in.
+          [_Entering he feels a throbbing sensation in his arm_
+    Serenest peace is in this calm retreat,
+    By passion's breath unruffled; what portends
+    My throbbing arm? Why should it whisper here
+    Of happy love? Yet everywhere around us
+    Stand the closed portals of events unknown.
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--This way, my dear companions; this way.
+
+KING [_listening_].--Hark! I hear voices to the right of yonder grove of
+trees. I will walk in that direction. [_Walking and looking about_.] Ah!
+here are the maidens of the hermitage coming this way to water the
+shrubs, carrying watering-pots proportioned to their strength. [_Gazing
+at them_.] How graceful they look!
+    In palaces such charms are rarely ours;
+    The woodland plants outshine the garden flowers.
+I will conceal myself in this shade and watch them.
+          [_Stands gazing at them_.
+
+_Enter Śakoontalá, with her two female companions, employed in the
+manner described_.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--This way, my dear companions; this way.
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--Dear Śakoontalá, one would think that father Kanwa had more
+affection for the shrubs of the hermitage even than for you, seeing he
+assigns to you who are yourself as delicate as the fresh-blown jasmine,
+the task of filling with water the trenches which encircle their roots.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--Dear Anasúyá, although I am charged by my good father with
+this duty, yet I cannot regard it as a task. I really feel a sisterly
+love for these plants.
+          [_Continues watering the shrubs_.
+
+KING.--Can this be the daughter of Kanwa? The saintly man, though
+descended from the great Kaśyapa, must be very deficient in judgment to
+habituate such a maiden to the life of a recluse.
+    The sage who would this form of artless grace
+    Inure to penance--thoughtlessly attempts
+    To cleave in twain the hard acacia's stem
+    With the soft edge of a blue lotus leaf.
+Well! concealed behind this tree, I will watch her without raising her
+suspicions.          [_Conceals himself_.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--Good Anasúyá, Priyamvadá has drawn this bark-dress too
+tightly about my chest. I pray thee, loosen it a little.
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--I will.          [_Loosens it_.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ [_smiling_].--Why do you lay the blame on me? Blame rather
+your own blooming youthfulness which imparts fulness to your bosom.
+
+KING.--A most just observation!
+    This youthful form, whose bosom's swelling charms
+    By the bark's knotted tissue are concealed,
+    Like some fair bud close folded in its sheath,
+    Gives not to view the blooming of its beauty.
+But what am I saying? In real truth, this bark-dress, though ill-suited
+to her figure, sets it off like an ornament.
+    The lotus with the Saivala entwined
+    Is not a whit less brilliant: dusky spots
+    Heighten the lustre of the cold-rayed moon:
+    This lovely maiden in her dress of bark
+    Seems all the lovelier. E'en the meanest garb
+    Gives to true beauty fresh attractiveness.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_looking before her_].--Yon Keśara-tree beckons to me with
+its young shoots, which, as the breeze waves them to and fro, appear
+like slender fingers. I will go and attend to it. [_Walks towards it_.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ.--Dear Śakoontalá, prithee, rest in that attitude one moment.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--Why so?
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ.--The Keśara-tree, whilst your graceful form bends about its
+stem, appears as if it were wedded to some lovely twining creeper.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--Ah! saucy girl, you are most appropriately named Priyamvadá
+("Speaker of flattering things").
+
+KING.--What Priyamvadá says, though complimentary, is nevertheless true.
+Verily,
+    Her ruddy lip vies with the opening bud;
+    Her graceful arms are as the twining stalks;
+    And her whole form is radiant with the glow
+    Of youthful beauty, as the tree with bloom.
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--See, dear Śakoontalá, here is the young jasmine, which you
+named "the Moonlight of the Grove," the self-elected wife of the
+mango-tree. Have you forgotten it?
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--Rather will I forget myself. [_Approaching the plant and
+looking at it_.] How delightful is the season when the jasmine-creeper
+and the mango-tree seem thus to unite in mutual embraces! The fresh
+blossoms of the jasmine resemble the bloom of a young bride, and the
+newly-formed shoots of the mango appear to make it her natural
+protector.          [_Continues gazing at it_.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ [_smiling_].--Do you know, my Anasúyá, why Śakoontalá gazes
+so intently at the jasmine?
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--No, indeed, I cannot imagine. I pray thee tell me.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ.--She is wishing that as the jasmine is united to a suitable
+tree, so, in like manner, she may obtain a husband worthy of her.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--Speak for yourself, girl; this is the thought in your own
+mind.          [_Continues watering the flowers_.
+
+KING.--Would that my union with her were permissible! and yet I hardly
+dare hope that the maiden is sprung from a caste different from that of
+the Head of the hermitage. But away with doubt:--
+    That she is free to wed a warrior-king
+    My heart attests. For, in conflicting doubts,
+    The secret promptings of the good man's soul
+    Are an unerring index of the truth.
+
+However, come what may, I will ascertain the fact.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_in a flurry_].--Ah! a bee, disturbed by the sprinkling of
+the water, has left the young jasmine, and is trying to settle on my
+face.          [_Attempts to drive it away_.
+
+KING [_gazing at her ardently_].--Beautiful! there is something charming
+even in her repulse.
+    Where'er the bee his eager onset plies,
+    Now here, now there, she darts her kindling eyes:
+    What love hath yet to teach, fear teaches now,
+    The furtive glances and the frowning brow.
+                                [_In a tone of envy_.
+    Ah happy bee! how boldly dost thou try
+    To steal the lustre from her sparkling eye;
+    And in thy circling movements hover near,
+    To murmur tender secrets in her ear;
+    Or, as she coyly waves her hand, to sip
+    Voluptuous nectar from her lower lip!
+    While rising doubts my heart's fond hopes destroy,
+    Thou dost the fulness of her charms enjoy.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--This impertinent bee will not rest quiet. I must move
+elsewhere. [_Moving a few steps off, and casting a glance around_.] How
+now! he is following me here. Help! my dear friends, help! deliver me
+from the attacks of this troublesome insect.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ.--How can we deliver you? Call Dushyanta to your
+aid. The sacred groves are under the king's special protection.
+
+KING.--An excellent opportunity for me to show myself. Fear
+not--[_Checks himself when the words are half-uttered._ _Aside_.] But
+stay, if I introduce myself in this manner, they will know me to be the
+King. Be it so, I will accost them, nevertheless.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_moving a step or two further off_].--What! it still
+persists in following me.
+
+KING [_advancing hastily_].--When mighty Puru's offspring sways the
+earth,
+    And o'er the wayward holds his threatening rod,
+    Who dares molest the gentle maids that keep
+    Their holy vigils here in Kanwa's grove?
+
+          [_All look at the King, and are embarrassed_.
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--Kind Sir, no outrage has been committed; only our dear friend
+here was teased by the attacks of a troublesome bee.
+          [_Points to Śakoontalá_.
+
+KING [_turning to Śakoontalá_].--I trust all is well with your
+devotional rites?
+
+          [_Śakoontalá stands confused and silent_.
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--All is well, indeed, now that we are honored by the reception
+of a distinguished guest. Dear Śakoontalá, go, bring from the hermitage
+an offering of flowers, rice, and fruit. This water that we have brought
+with us will serve to bathe our guest's feet.
+
+KING.--The rites of hospitality are already performed; your truly kind
+words are the best offering I can receive.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ.--At least be good enough, gentle Sir, to sit down awhile,
+and rest yourself on this seat shaded by the leaves of the Sapta-parna
+tree.
+
+KING.--You, too, must all be fatigued by your employment.
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--Dear Śakoontalá, there is no impropriety in our sitting by the
+side of our guest: come, let us sit down here.
+
+          [_All sit down together_.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_aside_].--How is it that the sight of this man has made me
+sensible of emotions inconsistent with religious vows?
+
+KING [_gazing at them all by turns_].--How charmingly your friendship is
+in keeping with the equality of your ages and appearance!
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ [_aside to Anasúyá_].--Who can this person be, whose lively
+yet dignified manner, and polite conversation, bespeak him a man of high
+rank?
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--I, too, my dear, am very curious to know. I will ask him
+myself. [_Aloud_]. Your kind words, noble Sir, fill me with confidence,
+and prompt me to inquire of what regal family our noble guest is the
+ornament? what country is now mourning his absence? and what induced a
+person so delicately nurtured to expose himself to the fatigue of
+visiting this grove of penance?
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_aside_].--Be not troubled, O my heart, Anasúyá is giving
+utterance to thy thoughts.
+
+KING [_aside_].--How now shall I reply? shall I make myself known, or
+shall I still disguise my real rank? I have it; I will answer her thus.
+[_Aloud_]. I am the person charged by his majesty, the descendant of
+Puru, with the administration of justice and religion; and am come to
+this sacred grove to satisfy myself that the rites of the hermits are
+free from obstruction.
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--The hermits, then, and all the members of our religious
+society have now a guardian.
+
+          [_Śakoontalá gazes bashfully at the King_.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ [_perceiving the state of her feelings, and of
+the King's. Aside to Śakoontalá_].--Dear Śakoontalá, if father Kanwa
+were but at home to-day------
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_angrily_].--What if he were?
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ.--He would honor this our distinguished guest
+with an offering of the most precious of his possessions.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--Go to! you have some silly idea in your minds. I will not
+listen to such remarks.
+
+KING.--May I be allowed, in my turn, to ask you maidens a few
+particulars respecting your friend?
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ.--Your request, Sir, is an honor.
+
+KING.--The sage Kanwa lives in the constant practice of austerities.
+How, then, can this friend of yours be called his daughter?
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--I will explain to you, Sir. You have heard of an illustrious
+sage of regal caste, Viśwámitra, whose family name is Kaúsika.
+
+KING.--I have.
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--Know that he is the real father of our friend. The venerable
+Kanwa is only her reputed father. He it was who brought her up, when she
+was deserted by her mother.
+
+KING.--"Deserted by her mother!" My curiosity is excited; pray let me
+hear the story from the beginning.
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--You shall hear it, Sir. Some time since, this sage of regal
+caste, while performing a most severe penance on the banks of the river
+Godávarí, excited the jealousy and alarm of the gods; insomuch that they
+despatched a lovely nymph named Menaká to interrupt his devotions.
+
+KING.--The inferior gods, I am aware, are jealous of the power which the
+practice of excessive devotion confers on mortals.
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--Well, then, it happened that Viśwámitra, gazing on the
+bewitching beauty of that nymph at a season when, spring being in its
+glory------
+          [_Stops short, and appears confused_.
+
+KING.--The rest may be easily divined. Śakoontalá, then, is the
+offspring of the nymph.
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--Just so.
+
+KING.--It is quite intelligible.
+    How could a mortal to such charms give birth?
+    The lightning's radiance flashes not from earth.
+
+          [_Śakoontalá remains modestly seated with downcast eyes.
+
+[Aside_]. And so my desire has really scope for its indulgence. Yet I am
+still distracted by doubts, remembering the pleasantry of her female
+companions respecting her wish for a husband.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ [_looking with a smile at Śakoontalá, and then turning
+towards the King_].--You seem desirous, Sir, of asking something
+further.
+
+          [_Śakoontalá makes a chiding gesture with her finger_.
+
+KING.--You conjecture truly. I am so eager to hear the particulars of
+your friend's history, that I have still another question to ask.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ.--Scruple not to do so. Persons who lead the life of hermits
+may be questioned unreservedly.
+
+KING.--I wish to ascertain one point respecting your friend--
+    Will she be bound by solitary vows
+    Opposed to love, till her espousals only?
+    Or ever dwell with these her cherished fawns,
+    Whose eyes, in lustre vieing with her own,
+    Return her gaze of sisterly affection?
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ.--Hitherto, Sir, she has been engaged in the practice of
+religious duties, and has lived in subjection to her foster-father; but
+it is now his fixed intention to give her away in marriage to a husband
+worthy of her.
+
+KING [_aside_].--His intention may be easily carried into effect.
+    Be hopeful, O my heart, thy harrowing doubts
+    Are past and gone; that which thou didst believe
+    To be as unapproachable as fire,
+    Is found a glittering gem that may be touched.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_pretending anger_].--Anasúyá, I shall leave you.
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--Why so?
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--That I may go and report this impertinent Priyamvadá to the
+venerable matron, Gautamí.[34]
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--Surely, dear friend, it would not be right to leave a
+distinguished guest before he has received the rights of hospitality,
+and quit his presence in this wilful manner.
+
+          [_Śakoontalá, without answering a word, moves away_.
+
+KING [_making a movement to arrest her departure, but checking himself.
+Aside_].--Ah! a lover's feelings betray themselves by his gestures.
+    When I would fain have stayed the maid, a sense
+    Of due decorum checked my bold design:
+    Though I have stirred not, yet my mien betrays
+    My eagerness to follow on her steps.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ [_holding Śakoontalá back_].--Dear Śakoontalá, it does not
+become you to go away in this manner.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_frowning_].--Why not, pray?
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ.--You are under a promise to water two more shrubs for me.
+When you have paid your debt, you shall go, and not before.
+          [_Forces her to turn back_.
+
+KING.--Spare her this trouble, gentle maiden. The exertion of watering
+the shrubs has already fatigued her.
+    The water-jar has overtasked the strength
+    Of her slim arms; her shoulders droop, her hands
+    Are ruddy with the glow of quickened pulses;
+    E'en now her agitated breath imparts
+    Unwonted tremor to her heaving breast;
+    The pearly drops that mar the recent bloom
+    Of the Śirísha pendant in her ear,
+    Gather in clustering circles on her cheek;
+    Loosed is the fillet of her hair: her hand
+    Restrains the locks that struggle to be free.
+Suffer me, then, thus to discharge the debt for you.
+
+[_Offers a ring to Priyamvadá. Both the maidens, reading the name
+Dushyanta on the seal, look at each other with surprise._
+
+KING.--Nay, think not that I am King Dushyanta. I am only the king's
+officer, and this is the ring which I have received from him as my
+credentials.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ.--The greater the reason you ought not to part with the ring
+from your finger. I am content to release her from her obligation at
+your simple request. [_With a smile_.] Now, Śakoontalá my love, you are
+at liberty to retire, thanks to the intercession of this noble stranger,
+or rather of this mighty prince.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_aside_].--My movements are no longer under my own control.
+[_Aloud_.] Pray, what authority have you over me, either to send me away
+or keep me back?
+
+KING [_gazing at Śakoontalá. Aside_].--Would I could ascertain whether
+she is affected towards me as I am towards her! At any rate, my hopes
+are free to indulge themselves. Because,
+    Although she mingles not her words with mine,
+    Yet doth her listening ear drink in my speech;
+    Although her eye shrinks from my ardent gaze,
+    No form but mine attracts its timid glances.
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--O hermits, be ready to protect the
+animals belonging to our hermitage. King Dushyanta, amusing himself with
+hunting, is near at hand.
+    Lo! by the feet of prancing horses raised,
+    Thick clouds of moving dust, like glittering swarms
+    Of locusts in the glow of eventide,
+    Fall on the branches of our sacred trees;
+    Where hang the dripping vests of woven bark,
+    Bleached by the waters of the cleansing fountain.
+And see!
+    Scared by the royal chariot in its course,
+    With headlong haste an elephant invades
+    The hallowed precincts of our sacred grove;
+    Himself the terror of the startled deer,
+    And an embodied hindrance to our rites.
+    The hedge of creepers clinging to his feet,
+    Feeble obstruction to his mad career,
+    Is dragged behind him in a tangled chain;
+    And with terrific shock one tusk he drives
+    Into the riven body of a tree,
+    Sweeping before him all impediments.
+
+KING [_aside_].--Out upon it! my retinue are looking for me, and are
+disturbing this holy retreat. Well! there is no help for it; I must go
+and meet them.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ.--Noble Sir, we are terrified by the accidental
+disturbance caused by the wild elephant. Permit us to return into the
+cottage.
+
+KING [_hastily_].--Go, gentle maidens. It shall be our care that no
+injury happen to the hermitage.          [_All rise up_.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ.--After such poor hospitality we are ashamed to
+request the honor of a second visit from you.
+
+KING.--Say not so. The mere sight of you, sweet maidens, has been to me
+the best entertainment.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--Anasúyá, a pointed blade of Kuśa-grass[35] has pricked my
+foot; and my bark-mantle is caught in the branch of a Kuruvaka-bush. Be
+so good as to wait for me until I have disentangled it.
+[_Exit with her two companions, after making pretexts for delay, that
+she may steal glances at the King_.
+
+KING.--I have no longer any desire to return to the city. I will
+therefore rejoin my attendants, and make them encamp somewhere in the
+vicinity of this sacred grove. In good truth, Śakoontalá has taken such
+possession of my thoughts, that I cannot turn myself in any other
+direction.
+    My limbs drawn onward leave my heart behind,
+    Like silken pennon borne against the wind.
+
+
+[33] The speed of the chariot resembled that of the wind and the sun.
+Indra was the god of the firmament or atmosphere. The sun, in Hindoo
+mythology, is represented as seated in a chariot drawn by seven green
+horses, having before him a lovely youth without legs, who acts as
+charioteer, and who is Aruna, or the Dawn personified.
+
+[34] The Matron or Superior of the female part of the society of
+hermits. Their authority resembled that of an abbess in a convent of
+nuns.
+
+[35] A grass held sacred by the Hindoos and freely used at their
+religious ceremonies. Its leaves are very long and taper to a
+needle-like point.
+
+
+
+
+ACT SECOND
+
+Scene.--A Plain on the Skirts of the Forest
+
+
+_Enter the Jester, Máthavya, in a melancholy mood_.
+
+MÁTHAVYA [_sighing_].--Heigh-ho! what an unlucky fellow I am! worn to a
+shadow by my royal friend's sporting propensities. "Here's a deer!"
+"There goes a boar!" "Yonder's a tiger!" This is the only burden of our
+talk, while in the heat of the meridian sun we toil on from jungle to
+jungle, wandering about in the paths of the woods, where the trees
+afford us no shelter. Are we thirsty? We have nothing to drink but the
+foul water of some mountain stream, filled with dry leaves which give it
+a most pungent flavor. Are we hungry? We have nothing to eat but roast
+game, which we must swallow down at odd times, as best we can. Even at
+night there is no peace to be had. Sleeping is out of the question, with
+joints all strained by dancing attendance upon my sporting friend; or if
+I do happen to doze, I am awakened at the very earliest dawn by the
+horrible din of a lot of rascally beaters and huntsmen, who must needs
+surround the wood before sunrise, and deafen me with their clatter. Nor
+are these my only troubles. Here's a fresh grievance, like a new boil
+rising upon an old one! Yesterday, while we were lagging behind, my
+royal friend entered yonder hermitage after a deer; and there, as
+ill-luck would have it? caught sight of a beautiful girl, called
+Śakoontalá, the hermit's daughter. From that moment, not another thought
+about returning to the city! and all last night, not a wink of sleep did
+he get for thinking of the damsel. What is to be done? At any rate, I
+will be on the watch for him as soon as he has finished his toilet.
+[[_Walking and looking about_.] Oh! here he comes, attended by the
+Yavana women with bows in their hands, and wearing garlands of wild
+flowers. What shall I do? I have it. I will pretend to stand in the
+easiest attitude for resting my bruised and crippled limbs.
+          [_Stands leaning on a staff_.
+
+_Enter King Dushyanta, followed by a retinue in the manner described_.
+
+KING.--True, by no easy conquest may I win her,
+    Yet are my hopes encouraged by her mien.
+    Love is not yet triumphant; but, methinks,
+    The hearts of both are ripe for his delights.
+[_Smiling_.] Ah! thus does the lover delude himself; judging of the
+state of his loved one's feelings by his own desires. But yet,
+    The stolen glance with half-averted eye,
+    The hesitating gait, the quick rebuke
+    Addressed to her companion, who would fain
+    Have stayed her counterfeit departure; these
+    Are signs not unpropitious to my suit.
+    So eagerly the lover feeds his hopes,
+    Claiming each trivial gesture for his own.
+
+MÁTHAVYA [_still in the same attitude_].--Ah, friend, my hands cannot
+move to greet you with the usual salutation. I can only just command my
+lips to wish your majesty victory.
+
+KING.--Why, what has paralyzed your limbs?
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--You might as well ask me how my eye comes to water after you
+have poked your finger into it.
+
+KING.--I don't understand you; speak more intelligibly.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--Ah, my dear friend, is yonder upright reed transformed into a
+crooked plant by its own act, or by the force of the current?
+
+KING.--The current of the river causes it, I suppose.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--Aye; just as you are the cause of my crippled limbs.
+
+KING.--How so?
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--Here are you living the life of a wild man of the woods in a
+savage, unfrequented region, while your state affairs are left to shift
+for themselves; and as for poor me, I am no longer master of my own
+limbs, but have to follow you about day after day in your chases after
+wild animals, till my bones are all crippled and out of joint. Do, my
+dear friend, let me have one day's rest.
+
+KING [_aside_].--This fellow little knows, while he talks in this
+manner, that my mind is wholly engrossed by recollections of the
+hermit's daughter, and quite as disinclined to the chase as his own.
+    No longer can I bend my well-braced bow
+    Against the timid deer; nor e'er again
+    With well-aimed arrows can I think to harm
+    These her beloved associates, who enjoy
+    The privilege of her companionship;
+    Teaching her tender glances in return.
+
+MÁTHAVYA [_looking in the King's face_].--I may as well speak to the
+winds, for any attention you pay to my requests. I suppose you have
+something on your mind, and are talking it over to yourself.
+
+KING [_smiling_].--I was only thinking that I ought not to disregard a
+friend's request.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--Then may the King live forever!          [_Moves off_.
+
+KING.--Stay a moment, my dear friend. I have something else to say to
+you.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--Say on, then.
+
+KING.--When you have rested, you must assist me in another business,
+which will give you no fatigue.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--In eating something nice, I hope.
+
+KING.--You shall know at some future time.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--No time better than the present.
+
+KING.--What ho! there.
+
+WARDER [_entering_].--What are your Majesty's commands?
+
+KING.--O Raivataka! bid the General of the forces attend.
+
+WARDER.--I will, Sire.        [_Exit and reënters with the General_]
+Come forward, General; his Majesty is looking towards you, and has some
+order to give you.
+
+GENERAL [_looking at the King_].--Though hunting is known to produce ill
+effects, my royal master has derived only benefit from it. For
+    Like the majestic elephant that roams
+    O'er mountain wilds, so does the King display
+    A stalwart frame, instinct with vigorous life.
+    His brawny arms and manly chest are scored
+    By frequent passage of the sounding string;
+    Unharmed he bears the mid-day sun; no toil
+    His mighty spirit daunts; his sturdy limbs,
+    Stripped of redundant flesh, relinquish nought
+    Of their robust proportions, but appear
+    In muscle, nerve, and sinewy fibre cased.
+[_Approaching the King_.] Victory to the King! We have tracked the wild
+beasts to their lairs in the forest. Why delay, when everything is
+ready?
+
+KING.--My friend Máthavya here has been disparaging the chase, till he
+has taken away all my relish for it.
+
+GENERAL [_aside to Máthavya_].--Persevere in your opposition, my good
+fellow; I will sound the King's real feelings, and humor him
+accordingly. [_Aloud_]. The blockhead talks nonsense, and your Majesty,
+in your own person, furnishes the best proof of it. Observe, Sire, the
+advantage and pleasure the hunter derives from the chase.
+    Freed from all grosser influences, his frame
+    Loses its sluggish humors, and becomes
+    Buoyant, compact, and fit for bold encounter.
+    'Tis his to mark with joy the varied passions,
+    Fierce heats of anger, terror, blank dismay,
+    Of forest animals that cross his path.
+    Then what a thrill transports the hunter's soul,
+    When, with unerring course, his driven shaft
+    Pierces the moving mark! Oh! 'tis conceit
+    In moralists to call the chase a vice;
+    What recreation can compare with this?
+
+MÁTHAVYA [_angrily_].--Away! tempter, away! The King has recovered his
+senses, and is himself again. As for you, you may, if you choose, wander
+about from forest to forest, till some old bear seizes you by the nose,
+and makes a mouthful of you.
+
+KING.--My good General, as we are just now in the neighborhood of a
+consecrated grove, your panegyric upon hunting is somewhat ill-timed,
+and I cannot assent to all you have said. For the present,
+    All undisturbed the buffaloes shall sport
+    In yonder pool, and with their ponderous horns
+    Scatter its tranquil waters, while the deer,
+    Couched here and there in groups beneath the shade
+    Of spreading branches, ruminate in peace.
+    And all securely shall the herd of boars
+    Feed on the marshy sedge; and thou, my bow,
+    With slackened string enjoy a long repose.
+
+GENERAL.--So please your Majesty, it shall be as you desire.
+
+KING.--Recall, then, the beaters who were sent in advance to surround
+the forest. My troops must not be allowed to disturb this sacred
+retreat, and irritate its pious inhabitants.
+    Know that within the calm and cold recluse
+    Lurks unperceived a germ of smothered flame,
+    All-potent to destroy; a latent fire
+    That rashly kindled bursts with fury forth:--
+    As in the disc of crystal that remains
+    Cool to the touch, until the solar ray
+    Falls on its polished surface, and excites
+    The burning heat that lies within concealed.
+
+GENERAL.--Your Majesty's commands shall be obeyed.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--Off with you, you son of a slave! Your nonsense won't go down
+here, my fine fellow.          [_Exit General_.
+
+KING [_looking at his attendants_].--Here, women, take my hunting-dress;
+and you, Raivataka, keep guard carefully outside.
+
+ATTENDANTS.--We will, sire.          [_Exeunt._
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--Now that you have got rid of these plagues, who have been
+buzzing about us like so many flies, sit down, do, on that stone slab,
+with the shade of the tree as your canopy, and I will seat myself by you
+quite comfortably.
+
+KING.--Go you, and sit down first.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--Come along, then.
+
+          [_Both walk on a little way, and seat themselves_.
+
+KING.--Máthavya, it may be said of you that you have never beheld
+anything worth seeing: for your eyes have not yet looked upon the
+loveliest object in creation.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--How can you say so, when I see your Majesty before me at this
+moment?
+
+KING.--It is very natural that everyone should consider his own friend
+perfect; but I was alluding to Śakoontalá, the brightest ornament of
+these hallowed groves.
+
+MÁTHAVYA [_aside_].--I understand well enough, but I am not going to
+humor him. [_Aloud_.] If, as you intimate, she is a hermit's daughter,
+you cannot lawfully ask her in marriage. You may as well, then, dismiss
+her from your mind, for any good the mere sight of her can do.
+
+KING.--Think you that a descendant of the mighty Puru could fix his
+affections on an unlawful object?
+    Though, as men say, the offspring of the sage,
+    The maiden to a nymph celestial owes
+    Her being, and by her mother left on earth,
+    Was found and nurtured by the holy man
+    As his own daughter, in this hermitage;--
+    So, when dissevered from its parent stalk,
+    Some falling blossom of the jasmine, wafted
+    Upon the sturdy sunflower, is preserved
+    By its support from premature decay.
+
+MÁTHAVYA [_smiling_].--This passion of yours for a rustic maiden, when
+you have so many gems of women at home in your palace, seems to me very
+like the fancy of a man who is tired of sweet dates, and longs for sour
+tamarinds as a variety.
+
+KING.--You have not seen her, or you would not talk in this fashion.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--I can quite understand it must require something surpassingly
+attractive to excite the admiration of such a great man as you.
+
+KING.--I will describe her, my dear friend, in a few words--
+    Man's all-wise Maker, wishing to create
+    A faultless form, whose matchless symmetry
+    Should far transcend Creation's choicest works,
+    Did call together by his mighty will,
+    And garner up in his eternal mind,
+    A bright assemblage of all lovely things:--
+    And then, as in a picture, fashion them
+    Into one perfect and ideal form.
+    Such the divine, the wondrous prototype,
+    Whence her fair shape was moulded into being.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--If that's the case, she must indeed throw all other beauties
+into the shade.
+
+KING.--To my mind she really does.
+    This peerless maid is like a fragrant flower,
+    Whose perfumed breath has never been diffused;
+    A tender bud, that no profaning hand
+    Has dared to sever from its parent stalk;
+    A gem of priceless water, just released
+    Pure and unblemished from its glittering bed.
+    Or may the maiden haply be compared
+    To sweetest honey, that no mortal lip
+    Has sipped; or, rather to the mellowed fruit
+    Of virtuous actions in some former birth,
+    Now brought to full perfection? Lives the man
+    Whom bounteous heaven has destined to espouse her?
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--Make haste, then, to her aid; you have no time to lose, if
+you don't wish this fruit of all the virtues to drop into the mouth of
+some greasy-headed rustic of devout habits.
+
+KING.--The lady is not her own mistress, and her foster-father is not at
+home.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--Well, but tell me, did she look at all kindly upon you?
+
+KING.--Maidens brought up in a hermitage are naturally shy and reserved;
+but for all that,
+    She did look towards me, though she quick withdrew
+    Her stealthy glances when she met my gaze;
+    She smiled upon me sweetly, but disguised
+    With maiden grace the secret of her smiles.
+    Coy love was half unveiled; then, sudden checked
+    By modesty, left half to be divined.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--Why, of course, my dear friend, you never could seriously
+expect that at the very first sight she would fall over head and ears in
+love with you, and without more ado come and sit in your lap.
+
+KING.--When we parted from each other, she betrayed her liking for me by
+clearer indications, but still with the utmost modesty.
+    Scarce had the fair one from my presence passed,
+    When, suddenly, without apparent cause,
+    She stopped, and counterfeiting pain, exclaimed,
+    "My foot is wounded by this prickly grass."
+    Then glancing at me tenderly, she feigned
+    Another charming pretext for delay,
+    Pretending that a bush had caught her robe,
+    And turned as if to disentangle it.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--I trust you have laid in a good stock of provisions, for I
+see you intend making this consecrated grove your game-preserve, and
+will be roaming here in quest of sport for some time to come.
+
+KING.--You must know, my good fellow, that I have been recognized by
+some of the inmates of the hermitage. Now I want the assistance of your
+fertile invention, in devising some excuse for going there again.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--There is but one expedient that I can suggest. You are the
+King, are you not?
+
+KING.--What then?
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--Say you have come for the sixth part of their grain, which
+they owe you for tribute.
+
+KING.--No, no, foolish man; these hermits pay me a very different kind
+of tribute, which I value more than heaps of gold or jewels; observe,
+    The tribute which my other subjects bring
+    Must moulder into dust, but holy men
+    Present me with a portion of the fruits
+    Of penitential services and prayers--
+    A precious and imperishable gift.
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--We are fortunate; here is the object of
+our search.
+
+KING [_listening],_--Surely those must be the voices of hermits, to
+judge by their deep tones.
+
+WARDER [_entering],_--Victory to the King! two young hermits are in
+waiting outside, and solicit an audience of your Majesty.
+
+KING.--Introduce them immediately.
+
+WARDER.--I will, my liege. [_Goes out, and reënters with two young
+Hermits_.] This way, Sirs, this way.
+
+          [_Both the Hermits look at the King_
+
+FIRST HERMIT.--How majestic is his mien, and yet what confidence it
+inspires! But this might be expected in a king whose character and
+habits have earned for him a title only one degree removed from that of
+a Saint.
+    In this secluded grove, whose sacred joys
+    All may participate, he deigns to dwell
+    Like one of us; and daily treasures up
+    A store of purest merit for himself,
+    By the protection of our holy rites.
+    In his own person wondrously are joined
+    Both majesty and saintlike holiness:--
+    And often chanted by inspired bards,
+    His hallowed title of "Imperial Sage"
+    Ascends in joyous accents to the skies.
+
+SECOND HERMIT.--Bear in mind, Gautama, that this is the great Dushyanta,
+the friend of Indra.
+
+FIRST HERMIT.--What of that?
+
+SECOND HERMIT.--Where is the wonder if his nervous arm,
+    Puissant and massive as the iron bar
+    That binds a castle-gateway, singly sways
+    The sceptre of the universal earth,
+    E'en to its dark-green boundary of waters?
+    Or if the gods, beholden to his aid
+    In their fierce warfare with the powers of hell,
+    Should blend his name with Indra's in their songs
+    Of victory, and gratefully accord
+    No lower meed of praise to his braced bow,
+    Than to the thunders of the god of heaven?
+
+BOTH THE HERMITS [_approaching_].--Victory to the King!
+
+KING [_rising from his seat_].--Hail to you both!
+
+BOTH THE HERMITS.--Heaven bless your Majesty!
+
+          [_They offer fruits_.
+
+KING [_respectfully receiving the offering_].--Tell me, I pray you, the
+object of your visit.
+
+BOTH THE HERMITS.--The inhabitants of the hermitage having heard of your
+Majesty's sojourn in our neighborhood, make this humble petition.
+
+KING.--What are their commands?
+
+BOTH THE HERMITS.--In the absence of our Superior, the great Sage Kanwa,
+evil demons are disturbing our sacrificial rites.[36] Deign, therefore,
+accompanied by your charioteer, to take up your abode in our hermitage
+for a few days.
+
+KING.--I am honored by your invitation.
+
+MÁTHAVYA [_aside_].--Most opportune and convenient, certainly!
+
+KING [_smiling_].--Ho! there, Raivataka! Tell the charioteer from me to
+bring round the chariot with my bow.
+
+WARDER.--I will, Sire.           [_Exit._
+
+BOTH THE HERMITS [_joyfully_].--Well it becomes the King by acts of
+grace
+    To emulate the virtues of his race.
+    Such acts thy lofty destiny attest;
+    Thy mission is to succor the distressed.
+
+KING [_bowing to the Hermits_].--Go first, reverend Sirs, I will follow
+you immediately.
+
+BOTH THE HERMITS.--May victory attend you!          [_Exeunt._
+
+KING.--My dear Máthavya, are you not full of longing to see Śakoontalá?
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--To tell you the truth, though I was just now brimful of
+desire to see her, I have not a drop left since this piece of news about
+the demons.
+
+KING.--Never fear; you shall keep close to me for protection.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--Well, you must be my guardian-angel, and act the part of a
+very Vishnu[37] to me.
+
+WARDER--[_entering_].--Sire, the chariot is ready, and only waits to
+conduct you to victory. But here is a messenger named Karabhaka, just
+arrived from your capital, with a message from the Queen, your mother.
+
+KING--[_respectfully_].--How say you? a messenger from the venerable
+Queen?
+
+WARDER.--Even so.
+
+KING.--Introduce him at once.
+
+WARDER.--I will, Sire. [_Goes out, and re-ënters with Karabhaka_.]
+Behold the King! Approach.
+
+KARABHAKA.--Victory to the King! The Queen-mother bids me say that in
+four days from the present time she intends celebrating a solemn
+ceremony for the advancement and preservation of her son. She expects
+that your Majesty will honor her with your presence on that occasion.
+
+KING.--This places me in a dilemma. Here, on the one hand, is the
+commission of these holy men to be executed; and, on the other, the
+command of my revered parent to be obeyed. Both duties are too sacred to
+be neglected. What is to be done?
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--You will have to take up an intermediate position between the
+two, like King Triśanku, who was suspended between heaven and earth,
+because the sage Viśwámitra commanded him to mount up to heaven, and the
+gods ordered him down again.
+
+KING.--I am certainly very much perplexed. For here,
+    Two different duties are required of me
+    In widely distant places; how can I
+    In my own person satisfy them both?
+    Thus is my mind distracted and impelled
+    In opposite directions, like a stream
+    That, driven back by rocks, still rushes on,
+    Forming two currents in its eddying course.
+[_Reflecting_.] Friend Máthavya, as you were my playfellow in childhood,
+the Queen has always received you like a second son; go you, then, back
+to her and tell her of my solemn engagement to assist these holy men.
+You can supply my place in the ceremony, and act the part of a son to
+the Queen.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--With the greatest pleasure in the world; but don't suppose
+that I am really coward enough to have the slightest fear of those
+trumpery demons.
+
+KING [_smiling_].--Oh! of course not; a great Bráhman like you could not
+possibly give way to such weakness.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--You must let me travel in a manner suitable to the King's
+younger brother.
+
+KING.--Yes, I shall send my retinue with you, that there may be no
+further disturbance in this sacred forest.
+
+MÁTHAVYA [_with a strut_].--Already I feel quite like a young prince.
+
+KING [_aside_].--This is a giddy fellow, and in all probability he will
+let out the truth about my present pursuit to the women of the palace.
+What is to be done? I must say something to deceive him. [_Aloud to
+Máthavya, taking him by the hand_.] Dear friend, I am going to the
+hermitage wholly and solely out of respect for its pious inhabitants,
+and not because I have really any liking for Śakoontalá, the hermit's
+daughter. Observe,
+    What suitable communion could there be
+    Between a monarch and a rustic girl?
+    I did but feign an idle passion, friend,
+    Take not in earnest what was said in jest.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--Don't distress yourself; I quite understand.
+
+          [_Exeunt._
+
+
+[36] The religious rites of holy men were often disturbed by certain
+evil spirits called Rákshasas, who were the determined enemies of piety
+and devotion.
+
+[37] Vishnu, the Preserver, was one of the three principal gods.
+
+
+
+
+PRELUDE TO ACT THIRD
+
+Scene.--The Hermitage
+
+
+_Enter a young Bráhman, carrying bundles of Kuśa-grass for the use of
+the sacrificing priests_.
+
+YOUNG BRÁHMAN.--How wonderful is the power of King Dushyanta! No sooner
+did he enter our hermitage, than we were able to proceed with our
+sacrificial rites, unmolested by the evil demons.
+    No need to fix the arrow to the bow;
+    The mighty monarch sounds the quivering string,
+    And, by the thunder of his arms dismayed,
+    Our demon foes are scattered to the wind.
+I must now, therefore, make haste and deliver to the sacrificing priests
+these bundles of Kuśa-grass, to be strewn round the altar. [_Walking and
+looking about; then addressing someone off the stage_.] Why, Priyamvadá,
+for whose use are you carrying that ointment of Usíra-root and those
+lotus leaves with fibres attached to them? [_Listening for her answer_.]
+What say you?--that Śakoontalá is suffering from fever produced by
+exposure to the sun, and that this ointment is to cool her burning
+frame? Nurse her with care, then, Priyamvadá, for she is cherished by
+our reverend Superior as the very breath of his nostrils. I, for my
+part, will contrive that soothing waters, hallowed in the sacrifice, be
+administered to her by the hands of Gautamí.
+          [_Exit._
+
+
+
+
+ACT THIRD
+
+Scene.--The Sacred Grove
+
+
+_Enter King Dushyanta, with the air of one in love_.
+
+KING [_sighing thoughtfully_].--The holy sage possesses magic power
+    In virtue of his penance; she, his ward,
+    Under the shadow of his tutelage
+    Rests in security. I know it well;
+    Yet sooner shall the rushing cataract
+    In foaming eddies re-ascend the steep,
+    Than my fond heart turn back from its pursuit.
+
+God of Love! God of the flowery shafts![38] we are all of us cruelly
+deceived by thee, and by the Moon, however deserving of confidence you
+may both appear.
+
+    For not to us do these thine arrows seem
+    Pointed with tender flowerets; not to us
+    Doth the pale moon irradiate the earth
+    With beams of silver fraught with cooling dews:--
+    But on our fevered frames the moon-beams fall
+    Like darts of fire, and every flower-tipped shaft
+    Of Káma, as it probes our throbbing hearts,
+    Seems to be barbed with hardest adamant.
+
+Adorable god of love! hast thou no pity for me? [_In a tone of
+anguish_.] How can thy arrows be so sharp when they are pointed with
+flowers? Ah! I know the reason:
+
+    E'en now in thine unbodied essence lurks
+    The fire of Siva's anger, like the flame
+    That ever hidden in the secret depths
+    Of ocean, smoulders there unseen. How else
+    Couldst thou, all immaterial as thou art,
+    Inflame our hearts thus fiercely?--thou, whose form
+    Was scorched to ashes by a sudden flash
+    From the offended god's terrific eye.
+Yet, methinks,
+    Welcome this anguish, welcome to my heart
+    These rankling wounds inflicted by the god,
+    Who on his scutcheon bears the monster-fish
+    Slain by his prowess: welcome death itself,
+    So that, commissioned by the lord of love,
+    This fair one be my executioner.
+
+Adorable divinity! Can I by no reproaches excite your commiseration?
+
+    Have I not daily offered at thy shrine
+    Innumerable vows, the only food
+    Of thine ethereal essence? Are my prayers
+    Thus to be slighted? Is it meet that thou
+    Shouldst aim thy shafts at thy true votary's heart,
+    Drawing thy bow-string even to thy ear?
+
+[_Pacing up and down in a melancholy manner_.] Now that the holy men
+have completed their rites, and have no more need of my services, how
+shall I dispel my melancholy? [_Sighing._ I have but one resource. Oh
+for another sight of the idol of my soul! I will seek her. [_Glancing at
+the sun._] In all probability, as the sun's heat is now at its height,
+Śakoontalá is passing her time under the shade of the bowers on the
+banks of the Máliní, attended by her maidens. I will go and look for her
+there. [_Walking and looking about._] I suspect the fair one has but
+just passed by this avenue of young-trees.
+
+    Here, as she tripped along, her fingers plucked
+    The opening buds: these lacerated plants,
+    Shorn of their fairest blossoms by her hand,
+    Seem like dismembered trunks, whose recent wounds
+    Are still unclosed; while from the bleeding socket
+    Of many a severed stalk, the milky juice
+    Still slowly trickles, and betrays her path.
+
+[_Feeling a breeze._] What a delicious breeze meets me in this spot!
+
+    Here may the zephyr, fragrant with the scent
+    Of lotuses, and laden with the spray
+    Caught from the waters of the rippling stream,
+    Fold in its close embrace my fevered limbs.
+
+[_Walking and looking about._] She must be somewhere in the neighborhood
+of this arbor of overhanging creepers, enclosed by plantations of cane.
+          [_Looking down._]
+
+    For at the entrance here I plainly see
+    A line of footsteps printed in the sand.
+    Here are the fresh impressions of her feet;
+    Their well-known outline faintly marked in front,
+    More deeply towards the heel; betokening
+    The graceful undulation of her gait.
+
+I will peep through those branches. [_Walking and looking. With
+transport._] Ah! now my eyes are gratified by an entrancing sight.
+Yonder is the beloved of my heart reclining on a rock strewn with
+flowers, and attended by her two friends. How fortunate! Concealed
+behind the leaves, I will listen to their conversation, without raising
+their suspicions.          [_Stands concealed, and gazes at them._]
+
+_Śakoontalá and her two attendants, holding fans in their hands are
+discovered as described_.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ [_fanning her. In a tone of affection._]--Dearest
+Śakoontalá, is the breeze raised by these broad lotus leaves refreshing
+to you?
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--Dear friends, why should you trouble yourselves to fan me?
+
+          [_Priyamvadá and Anasúyá look sorrowfully at one another._]
+
+KING.--Śakoontalá seems indeed to be seriously ill. [_Thoughtfully._]Can
+it be the intensity of the heat that has affected her? or does my heart
+suggest the true cause of her malady? [_Gazing at her passionately._]
+Why should I doubt it?
+    The maiden's spotless bosom is o'erspread
+    With cooling balsam; on her slender arm
+    Her only bracelet, twined with lotus stalks,
+    Hangs loose and withered; her recumbent form
+    Expresses languor. Ne'er could noon-day sun
+    Inflict such fair disorder on a maid--
+    No, love, and love alone, is hereto blame.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ [_aside to Anasúyá._]--I have observed, Anasúyá, that
+Śakoontalá has been indisposed ever since her first interview with King
+Dushyanta. Depend upon it, her ailment is to be traced to this source.
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--The same suspicion, dear Priyamvadá, has crossed my mind. But
+I will at once ask her and ascertain the truth. [_Aloud._] Dear
+Śakoontalá, I am about to put a question to you. Your indisposition is
+really very serious.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_half-rising from her couch_].--What were you going to ask?
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--We know very little about love-matters, dear Śakoontalá; but
+for all that, I cannot help suspecting your present state to be
+something similar to that of the lovers we have read about in romances.
+Tell us frankly what is the cause of your disorder. It is useless to
+apply a remedy, until the disease be understood.
+
+KING.--Anasúyá bears me out in my suspicion.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_aside_].--I am, indeed, deeply in love; but cannot rashly
+disclose my passion to these young girls.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ.--What Anasúyá says, dear Śakoontalá, is very just. Why give
+so little heed to your ailment? Every day you are becoming thinner;
+though I must confess your complexion is still as beautiful as ever.
+
+KING.--Priyamvadá speaks most truly.
+    Sunk is her velvet cheek; her wasted bosom
+    Loses its fulness; e'en her slender waist
+    Grows more attenuate; her face is wan,
+    Her shoulders droop;--as when the vernal blasts
+    Sear the young blossoms of the Mádhaví,
+    Blighting their bloom; so mournful is the change,
+    Yet in its sadness, fascinating still,
+    Inflicted by the mighty lord of love
+    On the fair figure of the hermit's daughter.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--Dear friends, to no one would I rather reveal the nature of
+my malady than to you; but I should only be troubling you.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ.--Nay, this is the very point about which we are
+so solicitous. Sorrow shared with affectionate friends is relieved of
+half its poignancy.
+
+KING.--Pressed by the partners of her joys and griefs, Her much beloved
+companions, to reveal The cherished secret locked within her breast,
+She needs must utter it; although her looks Encourage me to hope, my
+bosom throbs As anxiously I listen for her answer.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--Know then, dear friends, that from the first moment the
+illustrious Prince, who is the guardian of our sacred grove, presented
+himself to my sight--
+          [_Stops short, and appears confused._]
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ.--Say on, dear Śakoontalá, say on.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--Ever since that happy moment, my heart's affections have
+been fixed upon him, and my energies of mind and body have all deserted
+me, as you see.
+
+KING [_with rapture_].--Her own lips have uttered the words I most
+longed to hear.
+    Love lit the flame, and Love himself allays
+    My burning fever, as when gathering clouds
+    Rise o'er the earth in summer's dazzling noon,
+    And grateful showers dispel the morning heat.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--You must consent, then, dear friends, to contrive some
+means by which I may find favor with the King, or you will have ere long
+to assist at my funeral.
+
+KING [_with rapture_].--Enough! These words remove all my doubts.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ [_aside to Anasúyá_].--She is far gone in love, dear Anasúyá,
+and no time ought to be lost. Since she has fixed her affections on a
+monarch who is the ornament of Puru's line, we need not hesitate for a
+moment to express our approval.
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--I quite agree with you.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ [_aloud_].--We wish you joy, dear Śakoontalá. Your affections
+are fixed on an object in every respect worthy of you. The noblest river
+will unite itself to the ocean, and the lovely Mádhaví-creeper clings
+naturally to the Mango, the only tree capable of supporting it.
+
+KING.--Why need we wonder if the beautiful constellation Viśákhá pines
+to be united with the Moon.
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--By what stratagem can we best secure to our friend the
+accomplishment of her heart's desire, both speedily and secretly?
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ.--The latter point is all we have to think about. As to
+"speedily," I look upon the whole affair as already settled.
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--How so?
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ.--Did you not observe how the King betrayed his liking by the
+tender manner in which he gazed upon her, and how thin he has become the
+last few days, as if he had been lying awake thinking of her?
+
+KING [_looking at himself_].--Quite true! I certainly am becoming thin
+from want of sleep:--
+    As night by night in anxious thought I raise
+    This wasted arm to rest my sleepless head,
+    My jewelled bracelet, sullied by the tears
+    That trickle from my eyes in scalding streams,
+    Slips towards my elbow from my shrivelled wrist.
+    Oft I replace the bauble, but in vain;
+    So easily it spans the fleshless limb
+    That e'en the rough and corrugated skin,
+    Scarred by the bow-string, will not check its fall.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ [_thoughtfully_].--An idea strikes me, Anasúyá. Let
+Śakoontalá write a love-letter; I will conceal it in a flower, and
+contrive to drop it in the King's path. He will surely mistake it for
+the remains of some sacred offering, and will, in all probability, pick
+it up.
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--A very ingenious device! It has my entire approval; but what
+says Śakoontalá?
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--I must consider before I can consent to it.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ.--Could you not, dear Śakoontalá, think of some pretty
+composition in verse, containing a delicate declaration of your love?
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--Well, I will do my best; but my heart trembles when I think
+of the chances of a refusal.
+
+KING [_with rapture_].--Too timid maid, here stands the man from whom
+    Thou fearest a repulse; supremely blessed
+    To call thee all his own. Well might he doubt
+    His title to thy love; but how couldst thou
+    Believe thy beauty powerless to subdue him?
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ.--You undervalue your own merits, dear
+Śakoontalá. What man in his senses would intercept with the skirt of his
+robe the bright rays of the autumnal moon, which alone can allay the
+fever of his body?
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_smiling_].--Then it seems I must do as I am bid.
+          [_Sits down and appears to be thinking._]
+
+KING.--How charming she looks! My very eyes forget to wink, jealous of
+losing even for an instant a sight so enchanting.
+    How beautiful the movement of her brow,
+    As through her mind love's tender fancies flow!
+    And, as she weighs her thoughts, how sweet to trace
+    The ardent passion mantling in her face!
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--Dear girls, I have thought of a verse, but I have no
+writing-materials at hand.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ.--Write the letters with your nail on this lotus leaf, which
+is smooth as a parrot's breast.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_after writing the verse_].--Listen, dear friends, and tell
+me whether the ideas are appropriately expressed.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ.--We are all attention.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_reads_].--
+    I know not the secret thy bosom conceals,
+      Thy form is not near me to gladden my sight;
+    But sad is the tale that my fever reveals,
+      Of the love that consumes me by day and by night.
+
+KING [_advancing hastily towards her_].--
+    Nay, Love does but warm thee, fair maiden--thy frame
+      Only droops like the bud in the glare of the noon;
+    But me he consumes with a pitiless flame,
+      As the beams of the day-star destroy the pale moon.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ [_looking at him joyfully, and rising to salute
+him_].--Welcome, the desire of our hearts, that so speedily presents
+itself!
+
+          [_Śakoontalá makes an effort to rise._]
+
+KING.--Nay, trouble not thyself, dear maiden,
+      Move not to do me homage; let thy limbs
+      Still softly rest upon their flowery couch,
+      And gather fragrance from the lotus stalks
+      Bruised by the fevered contact of thy frame.
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--Deign, gentle Sir, to seat yourself on the rock on which our
+friend is reposing.
+
+          [_The King sits down. Śakoontalá is confused._]
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ.--Anyone may see at a glance that you are deeply attached to
+each other. But the affection I have for my friend prompts me to say
+something of which you hardly require to be informed.
+
+KING.--Do not hesitate to speak out, my good girl. If you omit to say
+what is in your mind, you may be sorry for it afterwards.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ.--Is it not your special office as a King to remove the
+suffering of your subjects who are in trouble?
+
+KING.--Such is my duty, most assuredly.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ.--Know, then, that our dear friend has been brought to her
+present state of suffering entirely through love for you. Her life is in
+your hands; take pity on her and restore her to health.
+
+KING.--Excellent maiden, our attachment is mutual. It is I who am the
+most honored by it.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_looking at Priyamvadá_].--What do you mean by detaining the
+King, who must be anxious to return to his royal consorts after so long
+a separation?
+
+KING.--Sweet maiden, banish from thy mind the thought
+    That I could love another. Thou dost reign
+    Supreme, without a rival, in my heart,
+    And I am thine alone: disown me not,
+    Else must I die a second deadlier death--
+    Killed by thy words, as erst by Káma's shafts.
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--Kind Sir, we have heard it said that kings have many favorite
+consorts. You must not, then, by your behavior towards our dear friend,
+give her relations cause to sorrow for her.
+
+KING.--Listen, gentle maiden, while in a few words I quiet your anxiety.
+    Though many beauteous forms my palace grace,
+    Henceforth two things alone will I esteem
+    The glory of my royal dynasty;--
+    My sea-girt realm, and this most lovely maid.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ.--We are satisfied by your assurances.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ [_glancing on one side_],--See, Anasúyá, there is our
+favorite little fawn running about in great distress, and turning its
+eyes in every direction as if looking for its mother; come, let us help
+the little thing to find her.
+
+          [_Both move away._]
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--Dear friends, dear friends, leave me not alone and
+unprotected. Why need you both go?
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ.--Unprotected! when the Protector of the world is
+at your side.          [_Exeunt._]
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--What! have they both really left me?
+
+KING.--Distress not thyself, sweet maiden. Thy adorer is at hand to wait
+upon thee.
+    Oh, let me tend thee, fair one, in the place
+    Of thy dear friends; and, with broad lotus fans,
+    Raise cooling breezes to refresh thy frame;
+    Or shall I rather, with caressing touch,
+    Allay the fever of thy limbs, and soothe
+    Thy aching feet, beauteous as blushing lilies?
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--Nay, touch me not. I will not incur the censure of those
+whom I am bound to respect.
+          [_Rises and attempts to go._]
+
+KING.--Fair one, the heat of noon has not yet subsided, and thy body is
+still feeble.
+    How canst thou quit thy fragrant couch of flowers,
+    And from thy throbbing bosom cast aside
+    Its covering of lotus leaves, to brave
+    With weak and fainting limbs the noon-day heat?
+
+[_Forces her to turn back._]
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--Infringe not the rules of decorum, mighty descendant of
+Puru. Remember, though I love you, I have no power to dispose of myself.
+
+KING.--Why this fear of offending your relations, timid maid? When your
+venerable foster-father hears of it, he will not find fault with you. He
+knows that the law permits us to be united without consulting him.
+    In Indra's heaven, so at least 'tis said,
+    No nuptial rites prevail,[39] nor is the bride
+    Led to the altar by her future spouse;
+    But all in secret does the bridegroom plight
+    His troth, and each unto the other vow
+    Mutual allegiance. Such espousals, too,
+    Are authorized on earth, and many daughters
+    Of royal saints thus wedded to their lords,
+    Have still received their father's benison.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--Leave me, leave me; I must take counsel with my female
+friends.
+
+KING.--I will leave thee when------
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--When?
+
+KING.--When I have gently stolen from thy lips
+    Their yet untasted nectar, to allay
+    The raging of my thirst, e'en as the bee
+    Sips the fresh honey from the opening bud.
+          [_Attempts to raise her face. Śakoontalá tries to prevent him_.
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--The loving birds, doomed by fate to
+nightly separation, must bid farewell to each other, for evening is at
+hand.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_in confusion_].--Great Prince, I hear the voice of the
+matron Gautamí. She is coming this way, to inquire after my health.
+Hasten and conceal yourself behind the branches.
+
+KING.--I will.          [_Conceals himself_.
+
+_Enter Gautamí with a vase in her hand, preceded by two attendants_.
+
+ATTENDANTS.--This way, most venerable Gautamí.
+
+GAUTAMÍ [_approaching Śakoontalá_].--My child, is the fever of thy limbs
+allayed?
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--Venerable mother, there is certainly a change for the
+better.
+
+GAUTAMÍ.--Let me sprinkle you with this holy water, and all your
+ailments will depart. [_Sprinkling Śakoontalá on the head_.] The day is
+closing, my child; come, let us go to the cottage.
+          [_They all move away_.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_aside_].--Oh my heart! thou didst fear to taste of
+happiness when it was within thy reach. Now that the object of thy
+desires is torn from thee, how bitter will be thy remorse, how
+distracting thine anguish! [_Moving on a few steps and stopping.
+Aloud_.] Farewell! bower of creepers, sweet soother of my sufferings,
+farewell! may I soon again be happy under thy shade.
+          [_Exit reluctantly with the others_.
+
+KING [_returning to his former seat in the arbor. Sighing_].--Alas! how
+many are the obstacles to the accomplishment of our wishes!
+    Albeit she did coyly turn away
+    Her glowing cheek, and with her fingers guard
+    Her pouting lips, that murmured a denial
+    In faltering accents, she did yield herself
+    A sweet reluctant captive to my will,
+    As eagerly I raised her lovely face:
+    But ere with gentle force I stole the kiss,
+    Too envious Fate did mar my daring purpose.
+Whither now shall I betake myself? I will tarry for a brief space in
+this bower of creepers, so endeared to me by the presence of my beloved
+Śakoontalá.
+          [_Looking round_.
+    Here printed on the flowery couch I see
+    The fair impression of her slender limbs;
+    Here is the sweet confession of her love,
+    Traced with her nail upon the lotus leaf--
+    And yonder are the withered lily stalks
+    That graced her wrist. While all around I view
+    Things that recall her image, can I quit
+    This bower, e'en though its living charm be fled?
+
+A VOICE [_in the air_].--Great King,
+    Scarce is our evening sacrifice begun,
+    When evil demons, lurid as the clouds
+    That gather round the dying orb of day,
+    Cluster in hideous troops, obscene and dread,
+    About our altars, casting far and near
+    Terrific shadows, while the sacred fire
+    Sheds a pale lustre o'er their ghostly shapes.
+
+KING.--I come to the rescue, I come.
+          [_Exit._
+
+
+[38] Káma, the Hindoo Cupid, or god of love. He has five arrows, each
+tipped with the blossom of a flower, which pierce the heart through the
+five senses.
+
+[39] A marriage without the usual ceremonies is called Gándharva. It was
+supposed to be the form of marriage prevalent among the nymphs of
+Indra's heaven.
+
+
+
+
+PRELUDE TO ACT FOURTH
+
+Scene.--The Garden of the Hermitage
+
+
+_Enter Priyamvadá and Anasúyá in the act of gathering flowers_.
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--Although, dear Priyamvadá, it rejoices my heart to think that
+Śakoontalá has been happily united to a husband in every respect worthy
+of her, by the form of marriage prevalent among Indra's celestial
+musicians, nevertheless, I cannot help feeling somewhat uneasy in my
+mind.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ.--How so?
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--You know that the pious King was gratefully dismissed by the
+hermits on the successful termination of their sacrificial rites. He has
+now returned to his capital, leaving Śakoontalá under our care; and it
+may be doubted whether, in the society of his royal consorts, he will
+not forget all that has taken place in this hermitage of ours.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ.--On that score be at ease. Persons of his noble nature are
+not so destitute of all honorable feeling. I confess, however, that
+there is one point about which I am rather anxious. What, think you,
+will father Kanwa say when he hears what has occurred?
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--In my opinion, he will approve the marriage.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ.--What makes you think so?
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--From the first, it was always his fixed purpose to bestow the
+maiden on a husband worthy of her; and since heaven has given her such a
+husband, his wishes have been realized without any trouble to himself.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ [_looking at the flower-basket_].--We have gathered flowers
+enough for the sacred offering, dear Anasúyá.
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--Well, then, let us now gather more, that we may have wherewith
+to propitiate the guardian-deity of our dear Śakoontalá.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ.--By all means.          [_They continue gathering_.
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--Ho there! See you not that I am here?
+
+ANASÚYÁ [_listening_].--That must be the voice of a guest announcing his
+arrival.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ.--Surely, Śakoontalá is not absent from the cottage.
+[_Aside_.] Her heart at least is absent, I fear.
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--Come along, come along; we have gathered flowers enough.
+          [_They move away_.
+
+THE SAME VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--Woe to thee, maiden, for daring
+to slight a guest like me!
+    Shall I stand here unwelcomed; even I,
+    A very mine of penitential merit,
+    Worthy of all respect? Shalt thou, rash maid,
+    Thus set at nought the ever sacred ties
+    Of hospitality? and fix thy thoughts
+    Upon the cherished object of thy love,
+    While I am present? Thus I curse thee, then--
+    He, even he of whom thou thinkest, he
+    Shall think no more of thee; nor in his heart
+    Retain thine image. Vainly shalt thou strive
+    To waken his remembrance of the past;
+    He shall disown thee, even as the sot,
+    Roused from his midnight drunkenness, denies
+    The words he uttered in his revellings.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ.--Alas! alas! I fear a terrible misfortune has occurred.
+Śakoontalá, from absence of mind, must have offended some guest whom she
+was bound to treat with respect. [_Looking behind the scenes_.] Ah! yes;
+I see, and no less a person than the great sage Durvasas, who is known
+to be most irascible. He it is that has just cursed her, and is now
+retiring with hasty strides, trembling with passion, and looking as if
+nothing could turn him. His wrath is like a consuming fire.
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--Go quickly, dear Priyamvadá, throw yourself at his feet, and
+persuade him to come back, while I prepare a propitiatory offering for
+him, with water and refreshments.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ.--I will.          [_Exit._
+
+ANASÚYÁ [_advancing hastily a few steps and stumbling_].--Alas! alas!
+this comes of being in a hurry. My foot has slipped and my basket of
+flowers has fallen from my hand.
+          [_Stays to gather them up_.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ [_reëntering_].--Well, dear Anasúyá, I have done my best; but
+what living being could succeed in pacifying such a cross-grained,
+ill-tempered old fellow? However, I managed to mollify him a little.
+
+ANASÚYÁ [_smiling_].--Even a little was much for him. Say on.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ.--When he refused to turn back, I implored his forgiveness in
+these words: "Most venerable sage, pardon, I beseech you, this first
+offence of a young and inexperienced girl, who was ignorant of the
+respect due to your saintly character and exalted rank."
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--And what did he reply?
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ.--"My word must not be falsified; but at the sight of the
+ring of recognition the spell shall cease." So saying, he disappeared.
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--Oh! then we may breathe again; for now I think of it, the King
+himself, at his departure, fastened on Śakoontalá's finger, as a token
+of remembrance, a ring on which his own name was engraved. She has,
+therefore, a remedy for her misfortune at her own command.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ.--Come, dear Anasúyá, let us proceed with our religious
+duties.          [_They walk away_.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ [_looking off the stage_].--See, Anasúyá, there sits our dear
+friend, motionless as a statue, resting her face on her left hand, her
+whole mind absorbed in thinking of her absent husband. She can pay no
+attention to herself, much less to a stranger.
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--Priyamvadá, let this affair never pass our lips. We must spare
+our dear friend's feelings. Her constitution is too delicate to bear
+much emotion.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ.--I agree with you. Who would think of watering a tender
+jasmine with hot water?
+
+
+
+
+ACT FOURTH
+
+Scene.--The Neighborhood of the Hermitage
+
+
+_Enter one of Kanwa's pupils, just arisen from his couch at the dawn of
+day_.
+
+PUPIL.--My master, the venerable Kanwa, who is but lately returned from
+his pilgrimage, has ordered me to ascertain how the time goes. I have
+therefore come into the open air to see if it be still dark. [_Walking
+and looking about_.] Oh! the dawn has already broken.
+    Lo! in one quarter of the sky, the Moon,
+    Lord of the herbs and night-expanding flowers,
+    Sinks towards his bed behind the western hills;
+    While in the east, preceded by the Dawn,
+    His blushing charioteer, the glorious Sun
+    Begins his course, and far into the gloom
+    Casts the first radiance of his orient beams,
+    Hail! co-eternal orbs, that rise to set,
+    And set to rise again; symbols divine
+    Of man's reverses, life's vicissitudes.
+And now,
+    While the round Moon withdraws his looming disc
+    Beneath the western sky, the full-blown flower
+    Of the night-loving lotus sheds her leaves
+    In sorrow for his loss, bequeathing nought
+    But the sweet memory of her loveliness
+    To my bereavèd sight: e'en as the bride
+    Disconsolately mourns her absent lord,
+    And yields her heart a prey to anxious grief.
+
+ANASÚYÁ [_entering abruptly_].--Little as I know of the ways of the
+world, I cannot help thinking that King Dushyanta is treating Śakoontalá
+very improperly.
+
+PUPIL.--Well, I must let my revered preceptor know that it is time to
+offer the burnt oblation.          [_Exit._
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--I am broad awake, but what shall I do? I have no energy to go
+about my usual occupations. My hands and feet seem to have lost their
+power. Well, Love has gained his object; and Love only is to blame for
+having induced our dear friend, in the innocence of her heart, to
+confide in such a perfidious man. Possibly, however, the imprecation of
+Durvasas may be already taking effect. Indeed, I cannot otherwise
+account for the King's strange conduct, in allowing so long a time to
+elapse without even a letter; and that, too, after so many promises and
+protestations. I cannot think what to do, unless we send him the ring
+which was to be the token of recognition. But which of these austere
+hermits could we ask to be the bearer of it? Then, again, Father Kanwa
+has just returned from his pilgrimage: and how am I to inform him of
+Śakoontalá's marriage to King Dushyanta, and her expectation of being
+soon a mother? I never could bring myself to tell him, even if I felt
+that Śakoontalá had been in fault, which she certainly has not. What is
+to be done?
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ [_entering; joyfully_].--Quick! quick! Anasúyá! come and
+assist in the joyful preparations for Śakoontalá's departure to her
+husband's palace.
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--My dear girl, what can you mean?
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ.--Listen, now, and I will tell you all about it. I went just
+now to Śakoontalá, to inquire whether she had slept comfortably--
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--Well, well; go on.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ.--She was sitting with her face bowed down to the very ground
+with shame, when Father Kanwa entered and, embracing her, of his own
+accord offered her his congratulations. "I give thee joy, my child," he
+said, "we have had an auspicious omen. The priest who offered the
+oblation dropped it into the very centre of the sacred fire, though
+thick smoke obstructed his vision. Henceforth thou wilt cease to be an
+object of compassion. This very day I purpose sending thee, under the
+charge of certain trusty hermits, to the King's palace; and shall
+deliver thee into the hands of thy husband, as I would commit knowledge
+to the keeping of a wise and faithful student."
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--Who, then, informed the holy Father of what passed in his
+absence?
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ.--As he was entering the sanctuary of the consecrated fire,
+an invisible being chanted a verse in celestial strains.
+
+ANASÚYÁ [_with astonishment_].--Indeed! pray repeat it.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ [_repeats the verse_].--
+    Glows in thy daughter King Dushyanta's glory,
+      As in the sacred tree the mystic fire.
+    Let worlds rejoice to hear the welcome story;
+      And may the son immortalize the sire.
+
+ANASÚYÁ [_embracing Priyamvadá_].--Oh, my dear Priyamvadá, what
+delightful news! I am pleased beyond measure; yet when I think that we
+are to lose our dear Śakoontalá this very day, a feeling of melancholy
+mingles with my joy.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ.--We shall find means of consoling ourselves after her
+departure. Let the dear creature only be made happy, at any cost.
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--Yes, yes, Priyamvadá, it shall be so; and now to prepare our
+bridal array. I have always looked forward to this occasion, and some
+time since, I deposited a beautiful garland of Keśara flowers in a
+cocoa-nut box, and suspended it on a bough of yonder mango-tree. Be good
+enough to stretch out your hand and take it down, while I compound
+unguents and perfumes with this consecrated paste and these blades of
+sacred grass.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ.--Very well.
+
+          [_Exit Anasúyá. Priyamvadá takes down the flowers._
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--Gautamí, bid Śárngarava and the others
+hold themselves in readiness to escort Śakoontalá.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ [_listening_].--Quick, quick, Anasúyá! They are calling the
+hermits who are to go with Śakoontalá to Hastinápur.
+
+ANASÚYÁ [_reëntering, with the perfumed unguents in her hand_].--Come
+along then, Priyamvadá; I am ready to go with you. [_They walk away_.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ [_looking_].--See! there sits Śakoontalá, her locks arranged
+even at this early hour of the morning. The holy women of the hermitage
+are congratulating her, and invoking blessings on her head, while they
+present her with wedding-gifts and offerings of consecrated wild-rice.
+Let us join them.          [_They approach_.
+
+_Śakoontalá is seen seated, with women surrounding her, occupied in the
+manner described_.
+
+FIRST WOMAN [_to Śakoontalá_].--My child, may'st thou receive the title
+of "Chief-queen," and may thy husband delight to honor thee above all
+others!
+
+SECOND WOMAN.--My child, may'st thou be the mother of a hero!
+
+THIRD WOMAN.--My child, may'st thou be highly honored by thy lord!
+
+[_Exeunt all the women, excepting Gautamí, after blessing Śakoontalá._
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ [_approaching_].--Dear Śakoontalá, we are come to
+assist you at your toilet, and may a blessing attend it!
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--Welcome, dear friends, welcome. Sit down here.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ [_taking the baskets containing the bridal
+decorations, and sitting down_].--Now, then, dearest, prepare to let us
+dress you. We must first rub your limbs with these perfumed unguents.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--I ought indeed to be grateful for your kind offices, now
+that I am so soon to be deprived of them. Dear, dear friends, perhaps I
+shall never be dressed by you again.          [_Bursts into tears_.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ.--Weep not, dearest, tears are out of season on
+such a happy occasion.
+
+          [_They wipe away her tears and begin to dress her_.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ.--Alas! these simple flowers and rude ornaments which our
+hermitage offers in abundance, do not set off your beauty as it
+deserves.
+
+          _Enter two young Hermits, bearing costly presents_.
+
+BOTH HERMITS.--Here are ornaments suitable for a queen.
+
+          [_The women look at them in astonishment_.
+
+GAUTAMÍ.--Why, Nárada, my son, whence came these?
+
+FIRST HERMIT.--You owe them to the devotion of Father Kanwa.
+
+GAUTAMÍ.--Did he create them by the power of his own mind?
+
+SECOND HERMIT.--Certainly not; but you shall hear. The venerable sage
+ordered us to collect flowers for Śakoontalá from the forest-trees; and
+we went to the wood for that purpose, when
+    Straightway depending from a neighboring tree
+    Appeared a robe of linen tissue, pure
+    And spotless as a moon-beam--mystic pledge
+    Of bridal happiness; another tree
+    Distilled a roseate dye wherewith to stain
+    The lady's feet; and other branches near
+    Glistened with rare and costly ornaments.
+    While, 'midst the leaves, the hands of forest-nymphs,
+    Vying in beauty with the opening buds,
+    Presented us with sylvan offerings.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ [_looking at Śakoontalá_].--The wood-nymphs have done you
+honor, indeed. This favor doubtless signifies that you are soon to be
+received as a happy wife into your husband's house, and are from this
+forward to become the partner of his royal fortunes.
+          [_Śakoontalá appears confused_.
+
+FIRST HERMIT.--Come, Gautama; Father Kanwa has finished his ablutions.
+Let us go and inform him of the favor we have received from the deities
+who preside over our trees.
+
+SECOND HERMIT.--By all means.          [_Exeunt._
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ.--Alas! what are we to do? We are unused to such
+splendid decorations, and are at a loss how to arrange them. Our
+knowledge of painting must be our guide. We will dispose the ornaments
+as we have seen them in pictures.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--Whatever pleases you, dear girls, will please me. I have
+perfect confidence in your taste. [_They commence dressing her_.
+
+          _Enter Kanwa, having just finished his ablutions_.
+
+KANWA.--This day my loved one leaves me, and my heart
+    Is heavy with its grief: the streams of sorrow
+    Choked at the source, repress my faltering voice.
+    I have no words to speak; mine eyes are dimmed
+    By the dark shadows of the thoughts that rise
+    Within my soul. If such the force of grief
+    In an old hermit parted from his nursling,
+    What anguish must the stricken parent feel--
+    Bereft forever of an only daughter?
+          [_Advances towards Śakoontalá_
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ.--Now, dearest Śakoontalá, we have finished
+decorating you. You have only to put on the two linen mantles.
+           [_Śakoontalá rises and puts them on_.
+
+GAUTAMÍ.--Daughter, see, here comes thy foster-father; he is eager to
+fold thee in his arms; his eyes swim with tears of joy. Hasten to do him
+reverence.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_reverently_].--My father, I salute you.
+
+KANWA.--My daughter,
+    May'st thou be highly honored by thy lord,
+    E'en as Yayáti Śarmishthá adored!
+    And, as she bore him Puru; so may'st thou
+    Bring forth a son to whom the world shall bow!
+
+GAUTAMÍ.--Most venerable father, she accepts your benediction as if she
+already possessed the boon it confers.
+
+KANWA.--Now come this way, my child, and walk reverently round these
+sacrificial fires.          [_They all walk round_.
+
+KANWA [_repeats a prayer in the metre of the Rig-veda_].--
+    Holy flames, that gleam around
+    Every altar's hallowed ground;
+    Holy flames, whose frequent food
+    Is the consecrated wood,
+    And for whose encircling bed,
+    Sacred Kuśa-grass is spread;
+    Holy flames, that waft to heaven
+    Sweet oblations daily given,
+    Mortal guilt to purge away;--
+    Hear, oh hear me, when I pray--
+    Purify my child this day!
+Now then, my daughter, set out on thy journey. [_Looking on one side_.]
+Where are thy attendants, Śárngarava and the others?
+
+YOUNG HERMIT [_entering_].--Here we are, most venerable father.
+
+KANWA.--Lead the way for thy sister.
+
+SÁRNGARAVA.--Come, Śakoontalá, let us proceed.
+          [_All move away_.
+
+KANWA.--Hear me, ye trees that surround our hermitage!
+    Śakoontalá ne'er moistened in the stream
+    Her own parched lips, till she had fondly poured
+    Its purest water on your thirsty roots;
+    And oft, when she would fain have decked her hair
+    With your thick-clustering blossoms, in her love
+    She robbed you not e'en of a single flower.
+    Her highest joy was ever to behold
+    The early glory of your opening buds:
+    Oh, then, dismiss her with a kind farewell!
+    This very day she quits her father's home,
+    To seek the palace of her wedded lord.
+          [_The note of a Köil is heard_.
+    Hark! heard'st thou not the answer of the trees,
+    Our sylvan sisters, warbled in the note
+    Of the melodious Köil? they dismiss
+    Their dear Śakoontalá with loving wishes.
+
+VOICES [_in the air_].--
+    Fare thee well, journey pleasantly on amid streams
+    Where the lotuses bloom, and the sun's glowing beams
+    Never pierce the deep shade of the wide-spreading trees,
+    While gently around thee shall sport the cool breeze;
+    Then light be thy footsteps and easy thy tread,
+    Beneath thee shall carpets of lilies be spread.
+    Journey on to thy lord, let thy spirit be gay,
+    For the smiles of all Nature shall gladden thy way.
+          [_All listen with astonishment_.
+
+GAUTAMÍ.--Daughter! the nymphs of the wood, who love thee with the
+affection of a sister, dismiss thee with kind wishes for thy happiness.
+Take thou leave of them reverentially.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_bowing respectfully and walking on. Aside to her
+friend_].--Eager as I am, dear Priyamvadá, to see my husband once more,
+yet my feet refuse to move, now that I am quitting forever the home of
+my girlhood.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ.--You are not the only one, dearest, to feel the bitterness
+of parting. As the time of separation approaches, the whole grove seems
+to share your anguish.
+    In sorrow for thy loss, the herd of deer
+    Forget to browse; the peacock on the lawn
+    Ceases its dance; the very trees around us
+    Shed their pale leaves, like tears, upon the ground.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_recollecting herself_].--My father, let me, before I go,
+bid adieu to my pet jasmine, the Moonlight of the Grove. I love the
+plant almost as a sister.
+
+KANWA.--Yes, yes, my child, I remember thy sisterly affection for the
+creeper. Here it is on the right.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_approaching the jasmine_],--My beloved jasmine, most
+brilliant of climbing plants, how sweet it is to see thee cling thus
+fondly to thy husband, the mango-tree; yet, prithee, turn thy twining
+arms for a moment in this direction to embrace thy sister; she is going
+far away, and may never see thee again.
+
+KANWA.--Daughter, the cherished purpose of my heart
+    Has ever been to wed thee to a spouse
+    That should be worthy of thee; such a spouse
+    Hast thou thyself, by thine own merits, won.
+    To him thou goest, and about his neck
+    Soon shalt thou cling confidingly, as now
+    Thy favorite jasmine twines its loving arms
+    Around the sturdy mango. Leave thou it
+    To its protector--e'en as I consign
+    Thee to thy lord, and henceforth from my mind
+    Banish all anxious thought on thy behalf.
+Proceed on thy journey, my child.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_to Priyamvadá and Anasúyá_].--To you, my sweet companions,
+I leave it as a keepsake. Take charge of it when I am gone.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ [_bursting into tears_].--And to whose charge do
+you leave us, dearest? Who will care for us when you are gone?
+
+KANWA.--For shame, Anasúyá! dry your tears. Is this the way to cheer
+your friend at a time when she needs your support and consolation?
+          [_All move on_.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--My father, see you there my pet deer, grazing close to the
+hermitage? She expects soon to fawn, and even now the weight of the
+little one she carries hinders her movements. Do not forget to send me
+word when she becomes a mother.
+
+KANWA.--I will not forget it.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_feeling herself drawn back_].--What can this be, fastened
+to my dress?          [_Turns round_.
+
+KANWA.--My daughter,
+    It is the little fawn, thy foster-child.
+    Poor helpless orphan! it remembers well
+    How with a mother's tenderness and love
+    Thou didst protect it, and with grains of rice
+    From thine own hand didst daily nourish it;
+    And, ever and anon, when some sharp thorn
+    Had pierced its mouth, how gently thou didst tend
+    The bleeding wound, and pour in healing balm.
+    The grateful nursling clings to its protectress,
+    Mutely imploring leave to follow her.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--My poor little fawn, dost thou ask to follow an unhappy
+woman who hesitates not to desert her companions? When thy mother died,
+soon after thy birth, I supplied her place, and reared thee with my own
+hand; and now that thy second mother is about to leave thee, who will
+care for thee? My father, be thou a mother to her. My child, go back,
+and be a daughter to my father.          [_Moves on, weeping_.
+
+KANWA.--Weep not, my daughter, check the gathering tear
+    That lurks beneath thine eyelid, ere it flow
+    And weaken thy resolve; be firm and true--
+    True to thyself and me; the path of life
+    Will lead o'er hill and plain, o'er rough and smooth,
+    And all must feel the steepness of the way;
+    Though rugged be thy course, press boldly on.
+
+SÁRNGARAVA.--Venerable sire! the sacred precept is--"Accompany thy
+friend as far as the margin of the first stream." Here then, we are
+arrived at the border of a lake. It is time for you to give us your
+final instructions and return.
+
+KANWA.--Be it so; let us tarry for a moment under the shade of this
+fig-tree.          [_They do so_.
+
+KANWA [_aside_].--I must think of some appropriate message to send to
+his majesty King Dushyanta.          [_Reflects._
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_aside to Anasúyá_].--See, see, dear Anasúyá, the poor
+female Chakraváka-bird, whom cruel fate dooms to nightly separation
+from her mate, calls to him in mournful notes from the other side of the
+stream, though he is only hidden from her view by the spreading leaves
+of the water-lily. Her cry is so piteous that I could almost fancy she
+was lamenting her hard lot in intelligible words.
+
+ANASÚYÁ.--Say not so, dearest.
+    Fond bird! though sorrow lengthen out her night
+    Of widowhood, yet with a cry of joy
+    She hails the morning light that brings her mate
+    Back to her side. The agony of parting
+    Would wound us like a sword, but that its edge
+    Is blunted by the hope of future meeting.
+
+KANWA.--Śárngarava, when you have introduced Śakoontalá into the
+presence of the King, you must give him this message from me.
+
+ŚÁRNGARAVA.--Let me hear it, venerable father.
+
+KANWA.--This is it--
+    Most puissant prince! we here present before thee
+    One thou art bound to cherish and receive
+    As thine own wife; yea, even to enthrone
+    As thine own queen--worthy of equal love
+    With thine imperial consorts. So much, Sire,
+    We claim of thee as justice due to us,
+    In virtue of our holy character--
+    In virtue of thine honorable rank--
+    In virtue of the pure spontaneous love
+    That secretly grew up 'twixt thee and her,
+    Without consent or privity of us.
+    We ask no more--the rest we freely leave
+    To thy just feeling and to destiny.
+
+ŚÁRNGARAVA.--A most suitable message. I will take care to deliver it
+correctly.
+
+KANWA.--And now, my child, a few words of advice for thee. We hermits,
+though we live secluded from the world, are not ignorant of worldly
+matters.
+
+ŚÁRNGARAVA.--No, indeed. Wise men are conversant with all subjects.
+
+KANWA.--Listen, then, my daughter. When thou reachest thy husband's
+palace, and art admitted into his family,
+    Honor thy betters; ever be respectful
+    To those above thee; and, should others share
+    Thy husband's love, ne'er yield thyself a prey
+    To jealousy; but ever be a friend,
+    A loving friend, to those who rival thee
+    In his affections. Should thy wedded lord
+    Treat thee with harshness, thou must never be
+    Harsh in return, but patient and submissive.
+    Be to thy menials courteous, and to all
+    Placed under thee, considerate and kind:
+    Be never self-indulgent, but avoid
+    Excess in pleasure; and, when fortune smiles,
+    Be not puffed up. Thus to thy husband's house
+    Wilt thou a blessing prove, and not a curse.
+What thinks Gautamí of this advice?
+
+GAUTAMÍ.--An excellent compendium, truly, of every wife's duties! Lay it
+well to heart, my daughter.
+
+KANWA.--Come, my beloved child, one parting embrace for me and for thy
+companions, and then we leave thee.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--My father, must Priyamvadá and Anasúyá really return with
+you? They are very dear to me.
+
+KANWA.--Yes, my child; they, too, in good time, will be given in
+marriage to suitable husbands. It would not be proper for them to
+accompany thee to such a public place. But Gautamí shall be thy
+companion.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_embracing him_].--Removed from thy bosom, my beloved
+father, like a young tendril of the sandal-tree torn from its home in
+the western mountains,[40] how shall I be able to support life in a
+foreign soil?
+
+KANWA.--Daughter, thy fears are groundless:--
+    Soon shall thy lord prefer thee to the rank
+    Of his own consort; and unnumbered cares
+    Befitting his imperial dignity
+    Shall constantly engross thee. Then the bliss
+    Of bearing him a son--a noble boy,
+    Bright as the day-star--shall transport thy soul
+    With new delights, and little shalt thou reck
+    Of the light sorrow that afflicts thee now
+    At parting from thy father and thy friends.
+
+          [_Śakoontalá throws herself at her foster-father's feet_.
+
+KANWA.--Blessings on thee, my child! May all my hopes of thee be
+realized!
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_approaching her friends_].--Come, my two loved companions,
+embrace me--both of you together.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ [_embracing her_].--Dear Śakoontalá, remember, if
+the King should by any chance be slow in recognizing you, you have only
+to show him this ring, on which his own name is engraved.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--The bare thought of it puts me in a tremor.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ.--There is no real cause for fear, dearest.
+Excessive affection is too apt to suspect evil where none exists.
+
+ŚÁRNGARAVA.--Come, lady, we must hasten on. The sun is rising in the
+heavens.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_looking towards the hermitage_].--Dear father, when shall I
+ever see this hallowed grove again?
+
+KANWA.--I will tell thee; listen--
+    When thou hast passed a long and blissful life
+    As King Dushyanta's queen, and jointly shared
+    With all the earth his ever-watchful care;
+    And hast beheld thine own heroic son,
+    Matchless in arms, united to a spouse
+    In happy wedlock; when his aged sire,
+    Thy faithful husband, hath to him resigned
+    The helm of state; then, weary of the world,
+    Together with Dushyanta thou shalt seek
+    The calm seclusion of thy former home:--
+    There amid holy scenes to be at peace,
+    Till thy pure spirit gain its last release.
+
+GAUTAMÍ.--Come, my child, the favorable time for our journey is fast
+passing. Let thy father return. Venerable Sire, be thou the first to
+move homewards, or these last words will never end.
+
+KANWA.--Daughter, detain me no longer. My religious duties must not be
+interrupted.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_again embracing her foster-father_].--Beloved father, thy
+frame is much enfeebled by penitential exercises. Do not, oh! do not,
+allow thyself to sorrow too much on my account.
+
+KANWA [_sighing_].--How, O my child, shall my bereavèd heart
+    Forget its bitterness, when, day by day,
+    Full in my sight shall grow the tender plants
+    Reared by thy care, or sprung from hallowed grain
+    Which thy loved hands have strewn around the door--
+    A frequent offering to our household gods?
+Go, my daughter, and may thy journey be prosperous.
+
+          [_Exit Śakoontalá with her escort_.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ [_gazing after Śakoontalá_].--Alas! alas! she is
+gone, and now the trees hide our darling from our view.
+
+KANWA [_sighing_].--Well, Anasúyá, your sister has departed. Moderate
+your grief, both of you, and follow me. I go back to the hermitage.
+
+PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ.--Holy father, the sacred grove will be a desert
+without Śakoontalá. How can we ever return to it?
+
+KANWA.--It is natural enough that your affection should make you view it
+in this light. [_Walking pensively on_.] As for me, I am quite surprised
+at myself. Now that I have fairly dismissed her to her husband's house,
+my mind is easy: for indeed,
+    A daughter is a loan--a precious jewel
+    Lent to a parent till her husband claim her.
+    And now that to her rightful lord and master
+    I have delivered her, my burdened soul
+    Is lightened, and I seem to breathe more freely.
+
+          [_Exeunt._
+
+
+[40] The sandal-tree is a large kind of myrtle, with pointed leaves. The
+wood affords many highly esteemed perfumes and is celebrated for its
+delicious scent. It is chiefly found on the slopes of the Malay
+mountains or Western Ghants, on the Malabar coast.
+
+
+
+
+ACT FIFTH
+
+Scene.--A Room in the Palace
+
+
+_The King Dushyanta and the Jester Máthavya are discovered seated_.
+
+MÁTHAVYA [_listening_].--Hark! my dear friend, listen a minute, and you
+will hear sweet sounds proceeding from the music-room. Someone is
+singing a charming air. Who can it be? Oh! I know. The queen Hansapadiká
+is practising her notes, that she may greet you with a new song.
+
+KING.--Hush! Let me listen.
+
+A VOICE [_sings behind the scenes_].--
+    How often hither didst thou rove,
+    Sweet bee, to kiss the mango's cheek;
+    Oh! leave not, then, thy early love,
+    The lily's honeyed lip to seek.
+
+KING.--A most impassioned strain, truly!
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--Do you understand the meaning of the words?
+
+KING [_smiling_].--She means to reprove me, because I once paid her
+great attention, and have lately deserted her for the queen Vasumatí.
+Go, my dear fellow, and tell Hansapadiká from me that I take her
+delicate reproof as it is intended.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--Very well. [_Rising from his seat_.] But stay--I don't much
+relish being sent to bear the brunt of her jealousy. The chances are
+that she will have me seized by the hair of the head and beaten to a
+jelly. I would as soon expose myself, after a vow of celibacy, to the
+seductions of a lovely nymph, as encounter the fury of a jealous woman.
+
+KING.--Go, go; you can disarm her wrath by a civil speech; but give her
+my message.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--What must be must be, I suppose.          [_Exit._
+
+KING [_aside_].--Strange! that song has filled me with a most peculiar
+sensation. A melancholy feeling has come over me, and I seem to yearn
+after some long-forgotten object of affection. Singular, indeed! but,
+    Not seldom in our happy hours of ease,
+    When thought is still, the sight of some fair form,
+    Or mournful fall of music breathing low,
+    Will stir strange fancies, thrilling all the soul
+    With a mysterious sadness, and a sense
+    Of vague yet earnest longing. Can it be
+    That the dim memory of events long past,
+    Or friendships formed in other states of being,
+    Flits like a passing shadow o'er the spirit?
+          [_Remains pensive and sad_.
+
+          _Enter the Chamberlain_.
+
+CHAMBERLAIN.--Alas! to what an advanced period of life have I attained!
+    Even this wand betrays the lapse of years;
+    In youthful days 'twas but a useless badge
+    And symbol of my office; now it serves
+    As a support to prop my tottering steps.
+
+Ah me! I feel very unwilling to announce to the King that a deputation
+of young hermits from the sage Kanwa has arrived, and craves an
+immediate audience. Certainly, his majesty ought not to neglect a matter
+of sacred duty, yet I hardly like to trouble him when he has just risen
+from the judgment-seat. Well, well; a monarch's business is to sustain
+the world, and he must not expect much repose; because--
+
+    Onward, forever onward, in his car
+    The unwearied Sun pursues his daily course,
+    Nor tarries to unyoke his glittering steeds.
+    And ever moving speeds the rushing Wind
+    Through boundless space, filling the universe
+    With his life-giving breezes. Day and night,
+    The King of Serpents on his thousand heads
+    Upholds the incumbent earth; and even so,
+    Unceasing toil is aye the lot of kings,
+    Who, in return, draw nurture from their subjects.
+
+I will therefore deliver my message. [_Walking on and looking about_.]
+Ah! here comes the King:--
+
+    His subjects are his children; through the day,
+    Like a fond father, to supply their wants,
+    Incessantly he labors; wearied now,
+    The monarch seeks seclusion and repose--
+    E'en as the prince of elephants defies
+    The sun's fierce heat, and leads the fainting herd
+    To verdant pastures, ere his wayworn limbs
+    He yields to rest beneath the cooling shade.
+
+[_Approaching_.] Victory to the King! So please your majesty, some
+hermits who live in a forest near the Snowy Mountains have arrived here,
+bringing certain women with them. They have a message to deliver from
+the sage Kanwa, and desire an audience. I await your Majesty's commands.
+
+KING [_respectfully_].--A message from the sage Kanwa, did you say?
+
+CHAMBERLAIN.--Even so, my liege.
+
+KING.--Tell my domestic priest, Somaráta, to receive the hermits with
+due honor, according to the prescribed form. He may then himself
+introduce them into my presence. I will await them in a place suitable
+for the reception of such holy guests.
+
+CHAMBERLAIN.--Your Majesty's commands shall be obeyed. [_Exit._
+
+KING [_rising and addressing the Warder_].--Vetravatí, lead the way to
+the chamber of the consecrated fire.
+
+WARDER.--This way, Sire.
+
+KING [_walking on, with the air of one oppressed by the cares of
+government_].--People are generally contented and happy when they have
+gained their desires; but kings have no sooner attained the object of
+their aspirations than all their troubles begin.
+    'Tis a fond thought that to attain the end
+    And object of ambition is to rest;
+    Success doth only mitigate the fever
+    Of anxious expectation; soon the fear
+    Of losing what we have, the constant care
+    Of guarding it doth weary. Ceaseless toil
+    Must be the lot of him who with his hands
+    Supports the canopy that shields his subjects.
+
+Two HERALDS [_behind the scenes_].--May the King be victorious!
+
+FIRST HERALD.--Honor to him who labors day by day
+    For the world's weal, forgetful of his own.
+    Like some tall tree that with its stately head
+    Endures the solar beam, while underneath
+    It yields refreshing shelter to the weary.
+
+SECOND HERALD.--Let but the monarch wield his threatening rod
+    And e'en the guilty tremble; at his voice
+    The rebel spirit cowers; his grateful subjects
+    Acknowledge him their guardian; rich and poor
+    Hail him a faithful friend, a loving kinsman.
+
+KING.--Weary as I was before, this complimentary address has refreshed
+me.          [_Walks on_.
+
+WARDER.--Here is the terrace of the hallowed fire-chamber, and yonder
+stands the cow that yields the milk for the oblations. The sacred
+enclosure has been recently purified, and looks clean and beautiful.
+Ascend, Sire.
+
+KING [_leans on the shoulders of his attendants, and ascends_].
+Vetravatí, what can possibly be the message that the venerable Kanwa has
+sent me by these hermits?--
+    Perchance their sacred rites have been disturbed
+    By demons, or some evil has befallen
+    The innocent herds, their favorites, that graze
+    Within the precincts of the hermitage;
+    Or haply, through my sins, some withering blight
+    Has nipped the creeping plants that spread their arms
+    Around the hallowed grove. Such troubled thoughts
+    Crowd through my mind, and fill me with misgiving.
+
+WARDER.--If you ask my opinion, Sire, I think the hermits merely wish to
+take an opportunity of testifying their loyalty, and are therefore come
+to offer homage to your Majesty.
+
+_Enter the Hermits, leading Śakoontalá, attended by Gautamí; and, in
+advance of them, the Chamberlain and the domestic Priest._
+
+CHAMBERLAIN.--This way, reverend sirs, this way.
+
+ŚÁRNGARAVA.--O Śáradwata,
+    'Tis true the monarch lacks no royal grace,
+    Nor ever swerves from justice; true, his people,
+    Yea such as in life's humblest walks are found,
+    Refrain from evil courses; still to me,
+    A lonely hermit reared in solitude,
+    This throng appears bewildering, and methinks
+    I look upon a burning house, whose inmates
+    Are running to and fro in wild dismay.
+
+SÁRADWATA.--It is natural that the first sight of the King's capital
+should affect you in this manner; my own sensations are very similar.
+    As one just bathed beholds the man polluted;
+    As one late purified, the yet impure:--
+    As one awake looks on the yet unwakened;
+    Or as the freeman gazes on the thrall,
+    So I regard this crowd of pleasure-seekers.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_feeling a quivering sensation in her right eyelid, and
+suspecting a bad omen_],--Alas! what means this throbbing of my right
+eyelid?
+
+GAUTAMÍ.--Heaven avert the evil omen, my child! May the guardian deities
+of thy husband's family convert it into a sign of good fortune! [_Walks
+on_.
+
+PRIEST [_pointing to the King_].--Most reverend sirs, there stands the
+protector of the four classes of the people; the guardian of the four
+orders of the priesthood. He has just left the judgment-seat, and is
+waiting for you. Behold him!
+
+ŚÁRNGARAVA.--Great Bráhman, we are happy in thinking that the King's
+power is exerted for the protection of all classes of his subjects. We
+have not come as petitioners--we have the fullest confidence in the
+generosity of his nature.
+    The loftiest trees bend humbly to the ground
+    Beneath the teeming burden of their fruit;
+    High in the vernal sky the pregnant clouds
+    Suspend their stately course, and hanging low,
+    Scatter their sparkling treasures o'er the earth:--
+    And such is true benevolence; the good
+    Are never rendered arrogant by riches.
+
+WARDER.--So please your Majesty, I judge from the placid countenance of
+the hermits that they have no alarming message to deliver.
+
+KING [_looking at Śakoontalá_].--But the lady there--
+    Who can she be, whose form of matchless grace
+    Is half concealed beneath her flowing veil?
+    Among the sombre hermits she appears
+    Like a fresh bud 'mid sear and yellow leaves.
+
+WARDER.--So please your Majesty, my curiosity is also roused, but no
+conjecture occurs to my mind. This at least is certain, that she
+deserves to be looked at more closely.
+
+KING.--True; but it is not right to gaze at another man's wife.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_placing her hand on her bosom. Aside_].--O my heart, why
+this throbbing? Remember thy lord's affection, and take courage.
+
+PRIEST [_advancing_].--These holy men have been received with all due
+honor. One of them has now a message to deliver from his spiritual
+superior. Will your Majesty deign to hear it?
+
+KING.--I am all attention.
+
+HERMITS [_extending their hands_].--Victory to the King!
+
+KING.--Accept my respectful greeting.
+
+HERMITS.--May the desires of your soul be accomplished!
+
+KING.--I trust no one is molesting you in the prosecution of your
+religious rites.
+
+HERMITS.--Who dares disturb our penitential rites
+    When thou art our protector? Can the night
+    Prevail to cast her shadows o'er the earth
+    While the sun's beams irradiate the sky?
+
+KING.--Such, indeed, is the very meaning of my title--"Defender of the
+Just." I trust the venerable Kanwa is in good health. The world is
+interested in his well-being.
+
+HERMITS.--Holy men have health and prosperity in their own power. He
+bade us greet your Majesty, and, after kind inquiries, deliver this
+message.
+
+KING.--Let me hear his commands.
+
+ŚÁRNGARAVA.--He bade us say that he feels happy in giving his sanction
+to the marriage which your Majesty contracted with this lady, his
+daughter, privately and by mutual agreement. Because
+    By us thou art esteemed the most illustrious
+    Of noble husbands; and Śakoontalá
+    Virtue herself in human form revealed.
+    Great Brahmá hath in equal yoke united
+    A bride unto a husband worthy of her:--
+    Henceforth let none make blasphemous complaint
+    That he is pleased with ill-assorted unions.
+
+Since, therefore, she expects soon to be the mother of thy child,
+receive her into thy palace, that she may perform, in conjunction with
+thee, the ceremonies prescribed by religion on such an occasion.
+
+GAUTAMÍ.--So please your Majesty, I would add a few words: but why
+should I intrude my sentiments when an opportunity of speaking my mind
+has never been allowed me?
+    She took no counsel with her kindred; thou
+    Didst not confer with thine, but all alone
+    Didst solemnize thy nuptials with thy wife.
+    Together, then, hold converse; let us leave you.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_aside_].--Ah! how I tremble for my lord's reply.
+
+KING.--What strange proposal is this?
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_aside_].--His words are fire to me.
+
+ŚÁRNGARAVA.--What do I hear? Dost thou, then, hesitate? Monarch, thou
+art well acquainted with the ways of the world, and knowest that
+    A wife, however virtuous and discreet,
+    If she live separate from her wedded lord,
+    Though under shelter of her parent's roof,
+    Is mark for vile suspicion. Let her dwell
+    Beside her husband, though he hold her not
+    In his affection. So her kinsmen will it.
+
+KING.--Do you really mean to assert that I ever married this lady?
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_despondingly. Aside_].--O my heart, thy worst misgivings
+are confirmed.
+
+ŚÁRNGARAVA.--Is it becoming in a monarch to depart from the rules of
+justice, because he repents of his engagements?
+
+KING.--I cannot answer a question which is based on a mere fabrication.
+
+
+SÁRNGARAVA.--Such inconstancy is fortunately not common, excepting in
+men intoxicated by power.
+
+KING.--Is that remark aimed at me?
+
+GAUTAMÍ.--Be not ashamed, my daughter. Let me remove thy veil for a
+little space. Thy husband will then recognize thee. [_Removes her veil_.
+
+KING [_gazing at Śakoontalá. Aside_].--What charms are here revealed
+before mine eyes!
+    Truly no blemish mars the symmetry
+    Of that fair form; yet can I ne'er believe
+    She is my wedded wife; and like a bee
+    That circles round the flower whose nectared cup
+    Teems with the dew of morning, I must pause
+    Ere eagerly I taste the proffered sweetness.
+          [_Remains wrapped in-thought._
+
+WARDER.--How admirably does our royal master's behavior prove his regard
+for justice! Who else would hesitate for a moment when good fortune
+offered for his acceptance a form of such rare beauty?
+
+SÁRNGARAVA.--Great King, why art thou silent?
+
+KING.--Holy men, I have revolved the matter in my mind; but the more I
+think of it, the less able am I to recollect that I ever contracted an
+alliance with this lady. What answer, then, can I possibly give you when
+I do not believe myself to be her husband, and I plainly see that she is
+soon to become a mother?
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_aside_].--Woe! woe! Is our very marriage to be called in
+question by my own husband? Ah me! is this to be the end of all my
+bright visions of wedded happiness?
+
+ŚÁRNGARAVA.--Beware!
+    Beware how thou insult the holy Sage!
+    Remember how he generously allowed
+    Thy secret union with his foster-child;
+    And how, when thou didst rob him of his treasure,
+    He sought to furnish thee excuse, when rather
+    He should have cursed thee for a ravisher.
+
+ŚÁRADWATA.--Śárngarava, speak to him no more. Śakoontalá, our part is
+performed; we have said all we had to say, and the King has replied in
+the manner thou hast heard. It is now thy turn to give him convincing
+evidence of thy marriage.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_aside_].--Since his feeling towards me has undergone a
+complete revolution, what will it avail to revive old recollections? One
+thing is clear--I shall soon have to mourn my own widowhood. [_Aloud_.]
+My revered husband--[_Stops short_.] But no--I dare not address thee by
+this title, since thou hast refused to acknowledge our union. Noble
+descendant of Puru! It is not worthy of thee to betray an
+innocent-minded girl, and disown her in such terms, after having so
+lately and so solemnly plighted thy vows to her in the hermitage.
+
+KING [_stopping his ears_].--I will hear no more. Be such a crime far
+from my thoughts!
+    What evil spirit can possess thee, lady,
+    That thou dost seek to sully my good name
+    By base aspersions? like a swollen torrent,
+    That, leaping from its narrow bed, overthrows
+    The tree upon its bank, and strives to blend
+    Its turbid waters with the crystal stream?
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--If, then, thou really believest me to be the wife of
+another, and thy present conduct proceeds from some cloud that obscures
+thy recollection, I will easily convince thee by this token.
+
+KING.--An excellent idea!
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_feeling for the ring_].--Alas! alas! woe is me! There is no
+ring on my finger!
+          [_Looks with anguish at Gautamí_.
+
+GAUTAMÍ.--The ring must have slipped off when thou wast in the act of
+offering homage to the holy water of Śachí's sacred pool, near
+Śakrávatára.
+
+KING [_smiling_].--People may well talk of the readiness of woman's
+invention! Here is an instance of it.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--Say, rather, of the omnipotence of fate. I will mention
+another circumstance, which may yet convince thee.
+
+KING.--By all means let me hear it at once.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--One day, while we were seated in a jasmine bower, thou
+didst pour into the hollow of thine hand some water, sprinkled by a
+recent shower in the cup of a lotus blossom--
+
+KING.--I am listening; proceed.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--At that instant, my adopted child, the little fawn, with
+soft, long eyes, came running towards us. Upon which, before tasting the
+water thyself, thou didst kindly offer some to the little creature,
+saying fondly--"Drink first, gentle fawn." But she could not be induced
+to drink from the hand of a stranger; though immediately afterwards,
+when I took the water in my own hand, she drank with perfect confidence.
+Then, with a smile, thou didst say--"Every creature confides naturally
+in its own kind. You are both inhabitants of the same forest, and have
+learnt to trust each other."
+
+KING.--Voluptuaries may allow themselves to be seduced from the path of
+duty by falsehoods such as these, expressed in honeyed words.
+
+GAUTAMÍ.--Speak not thus, illustrious Prince. This lady was brought up
+in a hermitage, and has never learnt deceit.
+
+KING.--Holy matron,
+    E'en in untutored brutes, the female sex
+    Is marked by inborn subtlety--much more
+    In beings gifted with intelligence.
+    The wily Köil, ere towards the sky
+    She wings her sportive flight, commits her eggs
+    To other nests, and artfully consigns
+    The rearing of her little ones to strangers.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_angrily_].--Dishonorable man, thou judgest of others by
+thine own evil heart. Thou, at least, art unrivalled in perfidy, and
+standest alone--a base deceiver in the garb of virtue and religion--like
+a deep pit whose yawning mouth is concealed by smiling flowers.
+
+KING [_aside_].--Her anger, at any rate, appears genuine, and makes me
+almost doubt whether I am in the right. For, indeed,
+    When I had vainly searched my memory,
+    And so with stern severity denied
+    The fabled story of our secret loves,
+    Her brows, that met before in graceful curves,
+    Like the arched weapon of the god of love,
+    Seemed by her frown dissevered; while the fire
+    Of sudden anger kindled in her eyes.
+
+[_Aloud_.] My good lady, Dushyanta's character is well-known to all. I
+comprehend not your meaning.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--Well do I deserve to be thought a harlot for having, in the
+innocence of my heart, and out of the confidence I reposed in a Prince
+of Puru's race, intrusted my honor to a man whose mouth distils honey,
+while his heart is full of poison.
+          [_Covers her face with her mantle, and bursts into tears_.
+
+ŚÁRNGARAVA.--Thus is it that burning remorse must ever follow rash
+actions which might have been avoided, and for which one has only one's
+self to blame.
+    Not hastily should marriage be contracted,
+    And specially in secret. Many a time,
+    In hearts that know not each the other's fancies,
+    Fond love is changed into most bitter hate.
+
+KING.--How now! Do you give credence to this woman rather than to me,
+that you heap such accusations on me?
+
+ŚÁRNGARAVA [_sarcastically_].--That would be too absurd, certainly. You
+have heard the proverb--
+    Hold in contempt the innocent words of those
+    Who from their infancy have known no guile:--
+    But trust the treacherous counsels of the man
+    Who makes a very science of deceit.
+
+KING.--Most veracious Bráhman, grant that you are in the right, what end
+would be gained by betraying this lady?
+
+ŚÁRNGARAVA.--Ruin.
+
+KING.--No one will believe that a Prince of Puru's race would seek to
+ruin others or himself.
+
+ŚÁRADWATA.--This altercation is idle, Śárngarava. We have executed the
+commission of our preceptor; come, let us return. [_To the King_.
+    Śakoontalá is certainly thy bride;
+    Receive her or reject her, she is thine.
+    Do with her, King, according to thy pleasure--
+    The husband o'er the wife is absolute.
+Go on before us, Gautamí.          [_They move away_.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--What! is it not enough to have been betrayed by this
+perfidious man? Must you also forsake me, regardless of my tears and
+lamentations?
+          [_Attempts to follow them_.
+
+GAUTAMÍ [_stopping_].--My son Śárngarava, see, Śakoontalá is following
+us, and with tears implores us not to leave her. Alas! poor child, what
+will she do here with a cruel husband who casts her from him?
+
+ŚÁRNGARAVA [_turning angrily towards her_].--Wilful woman, dost thou
+seek to be independent of thy lord?
+          [_Śakoontalá trembles with fear_.
+
+ŚÁRNGARAVA.--Śakoontalá!
+    If thou art really what the King proclaims thee,
+    How can thy father e'er receive thee back
+    Into his house and home? but, if thy conscience
+    Be witness to thy purity of soul,
+    E'en should thy husband to a handmaid's lot
+    Condemn thee, thou may'st cheerfully endure it,
+    When ranked among the number of his household.
+
+Thy duty, therefore, is to stay. As for us, we must return immediately.
+
+KING.--Deceive not the lady, my good hermit, by any such expectations.
+    The moon expands the lotus of the night,
+    The rising sun awakes the lily; each
+    Is with his own contented. Even so
+    The virtuous man is master of his passions,
+    And from another's wife averts his gaze.
+
+ŚÁRNGARAVA.--Since thy union with another woman has rendered thee
+oblivious of thy marriage with Śakoontalá, whence this fear of losing
+thy character for constancy and virtue?
+
+KING [_to the Priest_],--You must counsel me, revered sir, as to my
+course of action. Which of the two evils involves the greater or less
+sin?
+    Whether by some dark veil my mind be clouded,
+    Or this designing woman speak untruly,
+    I know not. Tell me, must I rather be
+    The base disowner of my wedded wife,
+    Or the defiling and defiled adulterer?
+
+PRIEST [_after deliberation_].--You must take an intermediate course.
+
+KING.--What course, revered sir? Tell me at once.
+
+PRIEST.--I will provide an asylum for the lady in my own house until the
+birth of her child; and my reason, if you ask me, is this. Soothsayers
+have predicted that your first-born will have universal dominion. Now,
+if the hermit's daughter bring forth a son with the discus or mark of
+empire in the lines of his hand, you must admit her immediately into
+your royal apartments with great rejoicings; if not, then determine to
+send her back as soon as possible to her father.
+
+KING.--I bow to the decision of my spiritual adviser.
+
+PRIEST.--Daughter, follow me.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--O divine earth, open and receive me into thy bosom!
+
+[_Exit Śakoontalá weeping, with the Priest and the Hermits. The King
+remains absorbed in thinking of her, though the curse still clouds his
+recollection_.
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--A miracle! a miracle!
+
+KING [_listening_].--What has happened now?
+
+PRIEST [_entering with an air of astonishment_].--Great Prince, a
+stupendous prodigy has just occurred!
+
+KING.--What is it?
+
+PRIEST.--May it please your Majesty, so soon as Kanwa's pupils had
+departed,
+    Śakoontalá, her eyes all bathed in tears,
+    With outstretched arms bewailed her cruel fate--
+
+KING.--Well, well, what happened then?
+
+PRIEST.--When suddenly a shining apparition, In female shape, descended
+from the skies, Near the nymphs' pool, and bore her up to heaven.
+
+          [_All remain motionless with astonishment_.
+
+KING.--My good priest, from the very first I declined having anything to
+do with this matter. It is now all over, and we can never, by our
+conjectures, unravel the mystery; let it rest; go, seek repose.
+
+PRIEST [_looking at the King_].--Be it so. Victory to the King! [_Exit._
+
+KING.--Vetravatí, I am tired out; lead the way to the bed-chamber.
+
+WARDER.--This way, Sire. [_They move away_.
+
+KING.--Do what I will, I cannot call to mind
+    That I did e'er espouse the sage's daughter--
+    Therefore I have disowned her; yet 'tis strange
+    How painfully my agitated heart
+    Bears witness to the truth of her assertion,
+    And makes me credit her against my judgment.
+          [_Exeunt._
+
+
+
+
+PRELUDE TO ACT SIXTH
+
+Scene.--A Street
+
+
+_Enter the King's brother-in-law as Superintendent of the city police;
+and with him two Constables, dragging a poor fisherman, who has his
+hands tied behind his back_.
+
+BOTH THE CONSTABLES [_striking the prisoner_].--Take that for a rascally
+thief that you are; and now tell us, sirrah, where you found this
+ring--aye, the King's own signet-ring. See, here is the royal name
+engraved on the setting of the jewel.
+
+FISHERMAN [_with a gesture of alarm_].--Mercy! kind sirs, mercy! I did
+not steal it; indeed I did not.
+
+FIRST CONSTABLE.--Oh! then I suppose the King took you for some fine
+Bráhman, and made you a present of it?
+
+FISHERMAN.--Only hear me. I am but a poor fisherman, living at
+Śakrávatára------
+
+SECOND CONSTABLE.--Scoundrel, who ever asked you, pray, for a history of
+your birth and parentage?
+
+SUPERINTENDENT [_to one of the Constables_].--Súchaka, let the fellow
+tell his own story from the beginning. Don't interrupt him.
+
+BOTH CONSTABLES.--As you please, master. Go on, then, sirrah, and say
+what you've got to say.
+
+FISHERMAN.--You see in me a poor man, who supports his family by
+catching fish with nets, hooks, and the like.
+
+SUPERINTENDENT [_laughing_].--A most refined occupation, certainly!
+
+FISHERMAN.--Blame me not for it, master.
+    The father's occupation, though despised
+    By others, casts no shame upon the son,
+    And he should not forsake it. Is the priest
+    Who kills the animal for sacrifice
+    Therefore deemed cruel? Sure a lowborn man
+    May, though a fisherman, be tender-hearted.
+
+SUPERINTENDENT.--Well, well; go on with your story.
+
+FISHERMAN.--One day I was cutting open a large carp I had just hooked,
+when the sparkle of a jewel caught my eye, and what should I find in the
+fish's maw but that ring! Soon afterwards, when I was offering it for
+sale, I was seized by your honors. Now you know everything. Whether you
+kill me, or whether you let me go, this is the true account of how the
+ring came into my possession.
+
+SUPERINTENDENT [_to one of the Constables_].--Well, Jánuka, the rascal
+emits such a fishy odor that I have no doubt of his being a fisherman;
+but we must inquire a little more closely into this queer story about
+the finding of the ring. Come, we'll take him before the King's
+household.
+
+BOTH CONSTABLES.--Very good, master. Get on with you, you cutpurse.
+          [_All move on_.
+
+SUPERINTENDENT.--Now attend, Súchaka; keep you guard here at the gate;
+and hark ye, sirrahs, take good care your prisoner does not escape,
+while I go in and lay the whole story of the discovery of this ring
+before the King in person. I will soon return and let you know his
+commands.
+
+CONSTABLE.--Go in, master, by all means; and may you find favor in the
+King's sight!
+          [_Exit Superintendent_.
+
+FIRST CONSTABLE [_after an interval_].--I say, Jánuka, the
+Superintendent is a long time away.
+
+SECOND CONSTABLE.--Aye, aye; kings are not to be got at so easily. Folks
+must bide the proper opportunity.
+
+FIRST CONSTABLE.--Jánuka, my fingers itch to strike the first blow at
+this royal victim here. We must kill him with all the honors, you know.
+I long to begin binding the flowers round his head.
+          [_Pretends to strike a blow at the fisherman_.
+
+FISHERMAN.--Your honor surely will not put an innocent man to a cruel
+death.
+
+SECOND CONSTABLE [_looking_].--There's our Superintendent at last, I
+declare. See, he is coming towards us with a paper in his hand. We shall
+soon know the King's command; so prepare, my fine fellow, either to
+become food for the vultures, or to make acquaintance with some hungry
+cur.
+
+SUPERINTENDENT [_entering_].--Ho, there, Súchaka! set the fisherman at
+liberty, I tell you. His story about the ring is all correct.
+
+SÚCHAKA.--Oh! very good, sir; as you please.
+
+SECOND CONSTABLE.--The fellow had one foot in hell, and now here he is
+in the land of the living.          [_Releases him_.
+
+FISHERMAN [_bowing to the Superintendent_].--Now, master, what think you
+of my way of getting a livelihood?
+
+SUPERINTENDENT.--Here, my good man, the King desired me to present you
+with this purse. It contains a sum of money equal to the full value of
+the ring.
+          [_Gives him the money_.
+
+FISHERMAN [_taking it and bowing_].--His Majesty does me too great
+honor.
+
+SÚCHAKA.--You may well say so. He might as well have taken you from the
+gallows to seat you on his state elephant.
+
+JÁNUKA.--Master, the King must value the ring very highly, or he would
+never have sent such a sum of money to this ragamuffin.
+
+SUPERINTENDENT.--I don't think he prizes it as a costly jewel so much as
+a memorial of some person he tenderly loves. The moment it was shown to
+him he became much agitated, though in general he conceals his feelings.
+
+SÚCHAKA.--Then you must have done a great service------
+
+JÁNUKA.--Yes, to this husband of a fish-wife.
+          [_Looks enviously at the fisherman_.
+
+FISHERMAN.--Here's half the money for you, my masters. It will serve to
+purchase the flowers you spoke of, if not to buy me your good-will.
+
+JÁNUKA.--Well, now, that's just as it should be.
+
+SUPERINTENDENT.--My good fisherman, you are an excellent fellow, and I
+begin to feel quite a regard for you. Let us seal our first friendship
+over a glass of good liquor. Come along to the next wine-shop and we'll
+drink your health.
+
+ALL.--By all means.
+          [_Exeunt._
+
+
+
+
+ACT SIXTH
+
+Scene.--The Garden of the Palace
+
+
+_The nymph Sánumatí is seen descending in a celestial car_.
+
+SÁNUMATÍ.--Behold me just arrived from attending in my proper turn at
+the nymphs' pool, where I have left the other nymphs to perform their
+ablutions, whilst I seek to ascertain, with my own eyes, how it fares
+with King Dushyanta. My connection with the nymph Menaká has made her
+daughter Śakoontalá dearer to me than my own flesh and blood; and Menaká
+it was who charged me with this errand on her daughter's behalf.
+[_Looking round in all directions_.] How is it that I see no
+preparations in the King's household for celebrating the great vernal
+festival? I could easily discover the reason by my divine faculty of
+meditation; but respect must be shown to the wishes of my friend. How
+then shall I arrive at the truth? I know what I will do. I will become
+invisible, and place myself near those two maidens who are tending the
+plants in the garden.          [_Descends and takes her station_.
+
+_Enter a Maiden, who stops in front of a mango-tree and gazes at the
+blossom. Another Maiden is seen behind her_.
+
+FIRST MAIDEN.--Hail to thee, lovely harbinger of spring! The varied
+radiance of thy opening flowers Is welcome to my sight. I bid thee hail,
+Sweet mango, soul of this enchanting season.
+
+SECOND MAIDEN.--Parabaitiká, what are you saying there to yourself?
+
+FIRST MAIDEN.--Dear Madhukariká, am I not named after the Köil?[41] and
+does not the Köil sing for joy at the first appearance of the
+mango-blossom?
+
+SECOND MAIDEN [_approaching hastily, with transport_].--What! is spring
+really come?
+
+FIRST MAIDEN.--Yes, indeed, Madhukariká, and with it the season of joy,
+love, and song.
+
+SECOND MAIDEN.--Let me lean upon you, dear, while I stand on tip-toe and
+pluck a blossom of the mango, that I may present it as an offering to
+the god of love.
+
+FIRST MAIDEN.--Provided you let me have half the reward which the god
+will bestow in return.
+
+SECOND MAIDEN.--To be sure you shall, and that without asking. Are we
+not one in heart and soul, though divided in body? [_Leans on her friend
+and plucks a mango-blossom._] Ah! here is a bud just bursting into
+flower. It diffuses a delicious perfume, though not yet quite expanded.
+          [_Joining her hands reverentially_.
+
+    God of the bow, who with spring's choicest flowers
+    Dost point thy five unerring shafts; to thee
+    I dedicate this blossom; let it serve
+    To barb thy truest arrow; be its mark
+    Some youthful heart that pines to be beloved.
+
+          [_Throws down a mango-blossom._
+
+CHAMBERLAIN [_entering in a hurried manner, angrily_].--Hold there,
+thoughtless woman. What are you about breaking off those mango-blossoms,
+when the King has forbidden the celebration of the spring festival?
+
+BOTH MAIDENS [_alarmed_].--Pardon us, kind sir, we have heard nothing of
+it.
+
+CHAMBERLAIN.--You have heard nothing of it? Why, all the vernal plants
+and shrubs, and the very birds that lodge in their branches, show more
+respect to the King's order than you do.
+    Yon mango-blossoms, though long since expanded,
+    Gather no down upon their tender crests;
+    The flower still lingers in the amaranth,
+    Imprisoned in its bud; the tuneful Köil,
+    Though winter's chilly dews be overpast,
+    Suspends the liquid volume of his song
+    Scarce uttered in his throat; e'en Love, dismayed,
+    Restores the half-drawn arrow to his quiver.
+
+BOTH MAIDENS.--The mighty power of King Dushyanta is not to be disputed.
+
+FIRST MAIDEN.--It is but a few days since Mitrávasu, the king's
+brother-in-law, sent us to wait upon his Majesty; and, during the whole
+of our sojourn here, we have been intrusted with the charge of the royal
+pleasure-grounds. We are therefore strangers in this place, and heard
+nothing of the order until you informed us of it.
+
+CHAMBERLAIN.--Well then, now you know it, take care you don't continue
+your preparations.
+
+BOTH MAIDENS.--But tell us, kind sir, why has the King prohibited the
+usual festivities? We are curious to hear, if we may.
+
+SÁNUMATÍ [_aside_].--Men are naturally fond of festive entertainments.
+There must be some good reason for the prohibition.
+
+CHAMBERLAIN.--The whole affair is now public; why should I not speak of
+it! Has not the gossip about the King's rejection of Śakoontalá reached
+your ears yet?
+
+BOTH MAIDENS.--Oh yes, we heard the story from the King's
+brother-in-law, as far, at least, as the discovery of the ring.
+
+CHAMBERLAIN.--Then there is little more to tell you. As soon as the
+King's memory was restored by the sight of his own ring, he exclaimed,
+"Yes, it is all true. I remember now my secret marriage with Śakoontalá.
+When I repudiated her, I had lost my recollection." Ever since that
+moment, he has yielded himself a prey to the bitterest remorse.
+    He loathes his former pleasures; he rejects
+    The daily homage of his ministers.
+    On his lone couch he tosses to and fro,
+    Courting repose in vain. Whene'er he meets
+    The ladies of his palace, and would fain
+    Address them with politeness, he confounds
+    Their names; or, calling them "Śakoontalá,"
+    Is straightway silent and abashed with shame.
+
+SÁNUMATÍ [_aside_].--To me this account is delightful.
+
+CHAMBERLAIN.--In short, the King is so completely out of his mind that
+the festival has been prohibited.
+
+BOTH MAIDENS.--Perfectly right.
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--The King! the King! This way, Sire, this
+way.
+
+CHAMBERLAIN [_listening_].--Oh! here comes his majesty in this
+direction. Pass on, maidens; attend to your duties.
+
+BOTH MAIDENS.--We will, sir. [_Exeunt._
+
+_Enter King Dushyanta, dressed in deep mourning, attended by his Jester,
+Máthavya, and preceded by Vetravatí._
+
+CHAMBERLAIN [_gazing at the King_].--Well, noble forms are certainly
+pleasing, under all varieties of outward circumstances. The King's
+person is as charming as ever, notwithstanding his sorrow of mind.
+    Though but a single golden bracelet spans
+    His wasted arm; though costly ornaments
+    Have given place to penitential weeds;
+    Though oft-repeated sighs have blanched his lips,
+    And robbed them of their bloom; though sleepless care
+    And carking thought have dimmed his beaming eye;
+    Yet does his form, by its inherent lustre,
+    Dazzle the gaze; and, like a priceless gem
+    Committed to some cunning polisher,
+    Grow more effulgent by the loss of substance.
+
+SÁNUMATÍ [_aside. Looking at the King_].--Now that I have seen him, I
+can well understand why Śakoontalá should pine after such a man, in
+spite of his disdainful rejection of her.
+
+KING [_walking slowly up and down, in deep thought_].--
+    When fatal lethargy overwhelmed my soul,
+    My loved one strove to rouse me, but in vain:--
+    And now when I would fain in slumber deep
+    Forget myself, full soon remorse doth wake me.
+
+SÁNUMATÍ [_aside_].--My poor Śakoontalá's sufferings are very similar.
+
+MÁTHAVYA [_aside_].--He is taken with another attack of this odious
+Śakoontalá fever. How shall we ever cure him?
+
+CHAMBERLAIN [_approaching_].--Victory to the King! Great Prince, the
+royal pleasure-grounds have been put in order. Your Majesty can resort
+to them for exercise and amusement whenever you think proper.
+
+KING.--Vetravatí, tell the worthy Piśuna, my prime minister, from me,
+that I am so exhausted by want of sleep that I cannot sit on the
+judgment-seat to-day. If any case of importance be brought before the
+tribunal he must give it his best attention, and inform me of the
+circumstances by letter.
+
+VETRAVATÍ.--Your Majesty's commands shall be obeyed. [_Exit._
+
+KING [_to the Chamberlain_].--And you, Vátáyana, may go about your own
+affairs.
+
+CHAMBERLAIN.--I will, Sire. [_Exit._
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--Now that you have rid yourself of these troublesome fellows,
+you can enjoy the delightful coolness of your pleasure-grounds without
+interruption.
+
+KING.--Ah! my dear friend, there is an old adage--"When affliction has a
+mind to enter, she will find a crevice somewhere"--and it is verified in
+me.
+    Scarce is my soul delivered from the cloud
+    That darkened its remembrance of the past,
+    When lo! the heart-born deity of love
+    With yonder blossom of the mango barbs
+    His keenest shaft, and aims it at my breast.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--Well, then, wait a moment; I will soon demolish Master Káma's
+arrow with a cut of my cane.
+
+          [_Raises his stick and strikes off the mango-blossom._
+
+KING [_smiling_].--That will do. I see very well the god of Love is not
+a match for a Bráhman. And now, my dear friend, where shall I sit down,
+that I may enchant my sight by gazing on the twining plants, which seem
+to remind me of the graceful shape of my beloved?
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--Do you not remember? you told Chaturiká you should pass the
+heat of the day in the jasmine bower; and commanded her to bring the
+likeness of your queen Śakoontalá, sketched with your own hand.
+
+KING.--True. The sight of her picture will refresh my soul. Lead the way
+to the arbor.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--This way, Sire.
+
+          [_Both move on, followed by Sánumatí._
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--Here we are at the jasmine bower. Look, it has a marble seat,
+and seems to bid us welcome with its offerings of delicious flowers. You
+have only to enter and sit down. [_Both enter and seat themselves._
+
+SÁNUMATÍ [_aside_].--I will lean against these young jasmines. I can
+easily, from behind them, glance at my friend's picture, and will then
+hasten to inform her of her husband's ardent affection. [_Stands leaning
+against the creepers_.
+
+KING.--Oh! my dear friend, how vividly all the circumstances of my union
+with Śakoontalá present themselves to my recollection at this moment!
+But tell me now how it was that, between the time of my leaving her in
+the hermitage and my subsequent rejection of her, you never breathed her
+name to me! True, you were not by my side when I disowned her; but I had
+confided to you the story of my love and you were acquainted with every
+particular. Did it pass out of your mind as it did out of mine?
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--No, no; trust me for that. But, if you remember, when you had
+finished telling me about it, you added that I was not to take the story
+in earnest, for that you were not really in love with a country girl,
+but were only jesting; and I was dull and thick-headed enough to believe
+you. But so fate decreed, and there is no help for it.
+
+SÁNUMATÍ [_aside_].--Exactly.
+
+KING [_after deep thought_].--My dear friend, suggest some relief for my
+misery.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--Come, come, cheer up; why do you give way? Such weakness is
+unworthy of you. Great men never surrender themselves to uncontrolled
+grief. Do not mountains remain unshaken even in a gale of wind?
+
+KING.--How can I be otherwise than inconsolable, when I call to mind the
+agonized demeanor of the dear one on the occasion of my disowning her?
+    When cruelly I spurned her from my presence,
+    She fain had left me; but the young recluse,
+    Stern as the Sage, and with authority
+    As from his saintly master, in a voice
+    That brooked not contradiction, bade her stay.
+    Then through her pleading eyes, bedimmed with tears,
+    She cast on me one long reproachful look,
+    Which like a poisoned shaft torments me still.
+
+SÁNUMATÍ [_aside_].--Alas! such is the force of self-reproach following
+a rash action. But his anguish only rejoices me.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--An idea has just struck me. I should not wonder if some
+celestial being had carried her off to heaven.
+
+KING.--Very likely. Who else would have dared to lay a
+finger on a wife, the idol of her husband? It is said that Menaká, the
+nymph of heaven, gave her birth. The suspicion has certainly crossed my
+mind that some of her celestial companions may have taken her to their
+own abode.
+
+SÁNUMATÍ [_aside_].--His present recollection of every circumstance of
+her history does not surprise me so much as his former forgetfulness.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--If that's the case, you will be certain to meet her before
+long.
+
+KING.--Why?
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--No father and mother can endure to see a daughter suffering
+the pain of separation from her husband.
+
+KING.--Oh! my dear Máthavya,
+    Was it a dream? or did some magic dire,
+    Dulling my senses with a strange delusion,
+    Overcome my spirit? or did destiny,
+    Jealous of my good actions, mar their fruit,
+    And rob me of their guerdon? It is past,
+    Whatever the spell that bound me. Once again
+    Am I awake, but only to behold
+    The precipice o'er which my hopes have fallen.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--Do not despair in this manner. Is not this very ring a proof
+that what has been lost may be unexpectedly found?
+
+KING [_gazing at the ring_].--Ah! this ring, too, has fallen from a
+station which it will not easily regain, and deserves all my sympathy.
+    O gem, deserved the punishment we suffer,
+    And equal is the merit of our works,
+    When such our common doom. Thou didst enjoy
+    The thrilling contact of those slender fingers,
+    Bright as the dawn; and now how changed thy lot!
+
+SÁNUMATÍ [_aside_].--Had it found its way to the hand of any other
+person, then indeed its fate would have been deplorable.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--Pray, how did the ring ever come upon her hand at all?
+
+SÁNUMATÍ.--I myself am curious to know.
+
+KING.--You shall hear. When I was leaving my beloved Śakoontalá that I
+might return to my own capital, she said to me, with tears in her eyes,
+"How long will it be ere my lord send for me to his palace and make me
+his queen?"
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--Well, what was your reply?
+
+KING.--Then I placed the ring on her finger, and thus addressed her--
+    Repeat each day one letter of the name
+    Engraven on this gem; ere thou hast reckoned
+    The tale of syllables, my minister
+    Shall come to lead thee to thy husband's palace.
+But, hard-hearted man that I was, I forgot to fulfil my promise, owing
+to the infatuation that took possession of me.
+
+SÁNUMATÍ [_aside_].--A pleasant arrangement! Fate, however, ordained
+that the appointment should not be kept.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--But how did the ring contrive to pass into the stomach of
+that carp which the fisherman caught and was cutting up?
+
+KING.--It must have slipped from my Śakoontalá's hand, and fallen into
+the stream of the Ganges, while she was offering homage to the water of
+Sachí's holy pool.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--Very likely.
+
+SÁNUMATÍ [_aside_].--Hence it happened, I suppose, that the King, always
+fearful of committing the least injustice, came to doubt his marriage
+with my poor Śakoontalá. But why should affection so strong as his stand
+in need of any token of recognition?
+
+KING.--Let me now address a few words of reproof to this ring.
+
+MÁTHAVYA [_aside_].--He is going stark mad, I verily believe.
+
+KING.--Hear me, thou dull and undiscerning bauble!
+    For so it argues thee, that thou couldst leave
+    The slender fingers of her hand, to sink
+    Beneath the waters. Yet what marvel is it
+    That thou shouldst lack discernment? let me rather
+    Heap curses on myself, who, though endowed
+    With reason, yet rejected her I loved.
+
+MÁTHAVYA [_aside_].--And so, I suppose, I must stand here to be devoured
+by hunger, whilst he goes on in this sentimental strain.
+
+KING.--O forsaken one, unjustly banished from my presence, take pity on
+thy slave, whose heart is consumed by the fire of remorse, and return to
+my sight.
+
+_Enter Chaturiká hurriedly, with a picture in her hand_.
+
+CHATURIKÁ.--Here is the Queen's portrait. [_Shows the picture_.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--Excellent, my dear friend, excellent! The imitation of nature
+is perfect, and the attitude of the figures is really charming. They
+stand out in such bold relief that the eye is quite deceived.
+
+SÁNUMATÍ [_aside_].--A most artistic performance! I admire the King's
+skill, and could almost believe that Śakoontalá herself was before me.
+
+KING.--I own 'tis not amiss, though it portrays
+    But feebly her angelic loveliness.
+    Aught less than perfect is depicted falsely,
+    And fancy must supply the imperfection.
+
+SÁNUMATÍ [_aside_].--A very just remark from a modest man, whose
+affection is exaggerated by the keenness of his remorse.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--Tell me--I see three female figures drawn on the canvas, and
+all of them beautiful; which of the three is her Majesty, Śakoontalá?
+
+SÁNUMATÍ [_aside_].--If he cannot distinguish her from the others, the
+simpleton might as well have no eyes in his head.
+
+KING.--Which should you imagine to be intended for her?
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--She who is leaning, apparently a little tired, against the
+stem of that mango-tree, the tender leaves of which glitter with the
+water she has poured upon them. Her arms are gracefully extended; her
+face is somewhat flushed with the heat; and a few flowers have escaped
+from her hair, which has become unfastened, and hangs in loose tresses
+about her neck. That must be the queen Śakoontalá, and the others, I
+presume, are her two attendants.
+
+KING.--I congratulate you on your discernment. Behold the proof of my
+passion;
+    My finger, burning with the glow of love,
+    Has left its impress on the painted tablet;
+    While here and there, alas! a scalding tear
+    Has fallen on the cheek and dimmed its brightness.
+    Chaturiká, the garden in the background of the picture is
+    only half-painted. Go, fetch the brush that I may finish it.
+
+CHATURIKÁ.--Worthy Máthavya, have the kindness to hold the picture until
+I return.
+
+KING.--Nay, I will hold it myself.
+          [_Takes the picture. Exit Chaturiká_.
+
+KING.--My loved one came but lately to my presence
+    And offered me herself, but in my folly
+    I spurned the gift, and now I fondly cling
+    To her mere image; even as a madman
+    Would pass the waters of the gushing stream,
+    And thirst for airy vapors of the desert.
+
+MÁTHAVYA [_aside_].--He has been fool enough to forego the reality for
+the semblance, the substance for the shadow. [_Aloud._] Tell us, I pray,
+what else remains to be painted.
+
+SÁNUMATÍ [_aside_].--He longs, no doubt, to delineate some favorite spot
+where my dear Śakoontalá delighted to ramble.
+
+KING.--You shall hear------
+    I wish to see the Máliní portrayed,
+    Its tranquil course by banks of sand impeded--
+    Upon the brink a pair of swans: beyond,
+    The hills adjacent to Himálaya,
+    Studded with deer; and, near the spreading shade
+    Of some large tree, where 'mid the branches hang
+    The hermits' vests of bark, a tender doe,
+    Rubbing its downy forehead on the horn
+    Of a black antelope, should be depicted.
+
+MÁTHAVYA [_aside_].--Pooh! if I were he, I would fill up the vacant
+spaces with a lot of grizzly-bearded old hermits.
+
+KING.--My dear Máthavya, there is still a part of Śakoontalá's dress
+which I purposed to draw, but find I have omitted.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--What is that?
+
+SÁNUMATÍ [_aside_].--Something suitable, I suppose, to the simple attire
+of a young and beautiful girl dwelling in a forest.
+
+KING.--A sweet Śirísha blossom should be twined
+    Behind her ear, its perfumed crest depending
+    Towards her cheek; and, resting on her bosom,
+    A lotus-fibre necklace, soft and bright
+    As an autumnal moon-beam, should be traced.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--Pray, why does the Queen cover her lips with the tips of her
+fingers, bright as the blossom of a lily, as if she were afraid of
+something? [_Looking more closely_.] Oh! I see; a vagabond bee, intent
+on thieving the honey of flowers, has mistaken her mouth for a rose-bud,
+and is trying to settle upon it.
+
+KING.--A bee! drive off the impudent insect, will you?
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--That's your business. Your royal prerogative gives you power
+over all offenders.
+
+KING.--Very true. Listen to me, thou favorite guest of flowering plants;
+why give thyself the trouble of hovering here? See where thy partner
+sits on yonder flower, And waits for thee ere she will sip its dew.
+
+SÁNUMATÍ [_aside_].--A most polite way of warning him off!
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--You'll find the obstinate creature is not to be sent about
+his business so easily as you think.
+
+KING.--Dost thou presume to disobey? Now hear me--
+    An thou but touch the lips of my beloved,
+    Sweet as the opening blossom, whence I quaffed
+    In happier days love's nectar, I will place thee
+    Within the hollow of yon lotus cup,
+    And there imprison thee for thy presumption.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--He must be bold indeed not to show any fear when you threaten
+him with such an awful punishment. [_Smiling, aside_.] He is stark mad,
+that's clear; and I believe, by keeping him company, I am beginning to
+talk almost as wildly. [_Aloud_.] Look, it is only a painted bee.
+
+KING.--Painted? impossible!
+
+SÁNUMATÍ [_aside_].--Even I did not perceive it; how much less should
+he?
+
+KING.--Oh! my dear friend, why were you so ill-natured as to tell me the
+truth?
+    While, all entranced, I gazed upon her picture,
+    My loved one seemed to live before my eyes,
+    Till every fibre of my being thrilled
+    With rapturous emotion. Oh! 'twas cruel
+    To dissipate the day-dream, and transform
+    The blissful vision to a lifeless image.
+          [_Sheds tears_.
+
+SÁNUMATÍ [_aside_].--Separated lovers are very difficult to please; but
+he seems more difficult than usual.
+
+KING.--Alas! my dear Máthavya, why am I doomed to be the victim of
+perpetual disappointment?
+    Vain is the hope of meeting her in dreams,
+    For slumber night by night forsakes my couch:
+    And now that I would fain assuage my grief
+    By gazing on her portrait here before me,
+    Tears of despairing love obscure my sight.
+
+SÁNUMATÍ [_aside_],--You have made ample amends for the wrong you did
+Śakoontalá in disowning her.
+
+CHATURIKÁ [_entering_].--Victory to the King! I was coming along with
+the box of colors in my hand------
+
+KING.--What now?
+
+CHATURIKÁ.--When I met the Queen Vasumatí, attended by Taraliká. She
+insisted on taking it from me, and declared she would herself deliver it
+into your Majesty's hands.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--By what luck did you contrive to escape her?
+
+CHATURIKÁ.--While her maid was disengaging her mantle, which had caught
+in the branch of a shrub, I ran away.
+
+KING.--Here, my good friend, take the picture and conceal it. My
+attentions to the Queen have made her presumptuous. She will be here in
+a minute.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--Conceal the picture! conceal myself, you mean. [_Getting up
+and taking the picture_.] The Queen has a bitter draught in store for
+you, which you will have to swallow as Siva did the poison at the
+Deluge. When you are well quit of her, you may send and call me from the
+Palace of Clouds,[42] where I shall take refuge.
+          [_Exit, running_.
+
+SÁNUMATÍ [_aside_].--Although the King's affections are transferred to
+another object, yet he respects his previous attachments. I fear his
+love must be somewhat fickle.
+
+VETRAVATÍ [_entering with a despatch in her hand_].--Victory to the
+King!
+
+KING.---Vetravatí, did you observe the Queen Vasumatí coming in this
+direction?
+
+VETRAVATÍ.--I did; but when she saw that I had a despatch in my hand for
+your Majesty, she turned back.
+
+KING.--The Queen has too much regard for propriety to interrupt me when
+I am engaged with state-affairs.
+
+VETRAVATÍ.--So please your Majesty, your Prime Minister begs
+respectfully to inform you that he has devoted much time to the
+settlement of financial calculations, and only one case of importance
+has been submitted by the citizens for his consideration. He has made a
+written report of the facts, and requests your Majesty to cast your eyes
+over it.
+
+KING.--Hand me the paper.
+          [_Vetravatí delivers it_.
+
+KING [_reading_].--What have we here? "A merchant named Dhanamitra,
+trading by sea, was lost in a late shipwreck. Though a wealthy trader,
+he was childless; and the whole of his immense property becomes by law
+forfeited to the King." So writes the minister. Alas! alas! for his
+childlessness. But surely, if he was wealthy, he must have had many
+wives. Let an inquiry be made whether any one of them is expecting to
+give birth to a child.
+
+VETRAVATÍ.--They say that his wife, the daughter of the foreman of a
+guild belonging to Ayodhyá, has just completed the ceremonies usual upon
+such expectations.
+
+KING.--The unborn child has a title to his father's property. Such is my
+decree. Go, bid my minister proclaim it so.
+
+VETRAVATÍ.--I will, my liege.          [_Going_.
+
+KING.--Stay a moment.
+
+VETRAVATÍ.--I am at your Majesty's service.
+
+KING.--Let there be no question whether he may or may not have left
+offspring;
+    Rather be it proclaimed that whosoe'er
+    Of King Dushyanta's subjects be bereaved
+    Of any loved relation, an it be not
+    That his estates are forfeited for crimes,
+    Dushyanta will himself to them supply
+    That kinsman's place in tenderest affection.
+
+VETRAVATÍ.--It shall be so proclaimed.
+
+          [_Exit Vetravatí, and reënter after an interval_.
+
+VETRAVATÍ.--Your Majesty's proclamation was received with acclamations
+of joy, like grateful rain at the right season.
+
+KING [_drawing a deep sigh_].--So then, the property of rich men, who
+have no lineal descendants, passes over to a stranger at their decease.
+And such, alas! must be the fate of the fortunes of the race of Puru at
+my death; even as when fertile soil is sown with seed at the wrong
+season.
+
+VETRAVATÍ.--Heaven forbid!
+
+KING.--Fool that I was to reject such happiness when it offered itself
+for my acceptance!
+
+SÁNUMATÍ [_aside_].--He may well blame his own folly when he calls to
+mind his treatment of my beloved Śakoontalá.
+
+KING.--Ah! woe is me? when I forsook my wife--
+    My lawful wife--concealed within her breast
+    There lay my second self, a child unborn,
+    Hope of my race, e'en as the choicest fruit
+    Lies hidden in the bosom of the earth.
+
+SÁNUMATÍ [_aside_].--There is no fear of your race being cut off for
+want of a son.
+
+CHATURIKÁ [_aside to Vetravatí_].--The affair of the merchant's death
+has quite upset our royal master, and caused him sad distress. Had you
+not better fetch the worthy Máthavya from the Palace of Clouds to
+comfort him?
+
+VETRAVATÍ.--A very good idea. [_Exit_.
+
+KING.--Alas! the shades of my forefathers are even now beginning to be
+alarmed, lest at my death they may be deprived of their funeral
+libations.
+    No son remains in King Dushyanta's place
+    To offer sacred homage to the dead
+    Of Puru's noble line: my ancestors
+    Must drink these glistening tears, the last libation
+    A childless man can ever hope to make them.
+          [_Falls down in an agony of grief_.
+
+CHATURIKÁ [_looking at him in consternation_].--Great King, compose
+yourself.
+
+SÁNUMATÍ [_aside_].--Alas! alas! though a bright light is shining near
+him, he is involved in the blackest darkness, by reason of the veil that
+obscures his sight. I will now reveal all, and put an end to his misery.
+But no; I heard the mother of the great Indra, when she was consoling
+Śakoontalá, say, that the gods will soon bring about a joyful union
+between husband and wife, being eager for the sacrifice which will be
+celebrated in their honor on the occasion. I must not anticipate the
+happy moment, but will return at once to my dear friend and cheer her
+with an account of what I have seen and heard.
+          [_Rises aloft and disappears_.
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--Help! help! to the rescue!
+
+KING [_recovering himself. Listening_].--Ha! I heard a cry of distress,
+and in Máthavya's voice. What ho there!
+
+VETRAVATÍ [_entering_].--Your friend is in danger; save him, great King.
+
+KING.--Who dares insult the worthy Máthavya?
+
+VETRAVATÍ.--Some evil demon, invisible to human eyes, has seized him,
+and carried him to one of the turrets of the Palace of Clouds.
+
+KING [_rising_].--Impossible! Have evil spirits power over my subjects,
+even in my private apartments? Well, well--
+    Daily I seem less able to avert
+    Misfortune from myself, and o'er my actions
+    Less competent to exercise control;
+    How can I then direct my subjects' ways,
+    Or shelter them from tyranny and wrong?
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--Halloo there! my dear friend; help!
+help!
+
+KING [_advancing with rapid strides_].--Fear nothing--
+
+THE SAME VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--Fear nothing, indeed! How can I
+help fearing when some monster is twisting back my neck, and is about to
+snap it as he would a sugarcane?
+
+KING [_looking round_].--What ho there! my bow.
+
+SLAVE [_entering with a bow_].--Behold your bow, Sire, and your
+arm-guard.
+
+          [_The king snatches up the bow and arrows_.
+
+ANOTHER VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--Here, thirsting for thy
+life-blood, will I slay thee, As a fierce tiger rends his struggling
+prey. Call now thy friend Dushyanta to thy aid; His bow is mighty to
+defend the weak; Yet all its vaunted power shall be as nought.
+
+KING [_with fury_].--What! dares he defy me to my face? Hold there,
+monster! Prepare to die, for your time is come. [_Stringing his bow_.]
+Vetravatí, lead the way to the terrace.
+
+VETRAVATÍ.--This way, Sire. [_They advance in haste_.
+
+KING [_looking on every side_].--How's this? there is nothing to be
+seen.
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--Help! Save me! I can see you, though you
+cannot see me. I am like a mouse in the claws of a cat; my life is not
+worth a moment's purchase.
+
+KING.--Avaunt, monster! You may pride yourself on the magic that renders
+you invisible, but my arrow shall find you out. Thus do I fix a shaft
+    That shall discern between an impious demon
+    And a good Bráhman; bearing death to thee,
+    To him deliverance--even as the swan
+    Distinguishes the milk from worthless water.
+          [_Takes aim_.
+
+          _Enter Mátali, holding Máthavya, whom he releases_.
+
+MÁTALI.--Turn thou thy deadly arrows on the demons;
+    Such is the will of Indra; let thy bow
+    Be drawn against the enemies of the gods;
+    But on thy friends cast only looks of favor.
+
+KING [_putting back his arrow_].--What, Mátali! Welcome, most noble
+charioteer of the mighty Indra.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--So, here is a monster who thought as little about
+slaughtering me as if I had been a bullock for sacrifice, and you must
+e'en greet him with a welcome.
+
+MÁTALI [_smiling_].--Great Prince, hear on what errand Indra sent me
+into your presence.
+
+KING.--I am all attention.
+
+MÁTALI.--There is a race of giants, the descendants of Kálanemi, whom
+the gods find difficult to subdue.
+
+KING.--So I have already heard from Nárada.
+
+MÁTALI.--Heaven's mighty lord, who deigns to call thee "friend,"
+    Appoints thee to the post of highest honor,
+    As leader of his armies; and commits
+    The subjugation of this giant brood
+    To thy resistless arms, e'en as the sun
+    Leaves the pale moon to dissipate the darkness.
+
+Let your Majesty, therefore, ascend at once the celestial car of Indra;
+and, grasping your arms, advance to victory.
+
+KING.--The mighty Indra honors me too highly by such a mark of
+distinction. But tell me, what made you act thus towards my poor friend
+Máthavya?
+
+MÁTALI.--I will tell you. Perceiving that your Majesty's spirit was
+completely broken by some distress of mind under which you were
+laboring, I determined to rouse your energies by moving you to anger.
+Because
+    To light a flame, we need but stir the embers;
+    The cobra, when incensed, extends his head
+    And springs upon his foe; the bravest men
+    Display their courage only when provoked.
+
+KING [_aside to Máthavya_].--My dear Máthavya, the commands of the great
+Indra must not be left unfulfilled. Go you and acquaint my minister,
+Piśuna, with what has happened, and say to him from me, Dushyanta to thy
+care confides his realm--
+    Protect with all the vigor of thy mind
+    The interests of my people; while my bow
+    Is braced against the enemies of heaven.
+
+MÁTHAVYA.--I obey.          [_Exit._
+
+MÁTALI.--Ascend, illustrious Prince.
+          [_The King ascends the car. Exeunt_.
+
+
+[41] The Köil is the Indian cuckoo. It is sometimes called Parabhrita
+(nourished by another) because the female is known to leave her eggs in
+the nest of the crow to be hatched. The bird is a great favorite with
+the Indian poets, as the nightingale with Europeans.
+
+[42] Palace of King Dushyanta, so-called because it was as lofty as the
+clouds.
+
+
+
+
+ACT SEVENTH
+
+Scene.--The Sky
+
+
+_Enter King Dushyanta and Mátali in the car of Indra, moving in the
+air_.
+
+KING.--My good Mátali, it appears to me incredible that I can merit such
+a mark of distinction for having simply fulfilled the behests of the
+great Indra.
+
+MÁTALI [_smiling_].--Great Prince, it seems to me that neither of you is
+satisfied with himself--
+    You underrate the service you have rendered,
+    And think too highly of the god's reward:
+    He deems it scarce sufficient recompense
+    For your heroic deeds on his behalf.
+
+KING.--Nay, Mátali, say not so. My most ambitious expectations were more
+than realized by the honor conferred on me at the moment when I took my
+leave. For,
+    Tinged with celestial sandal, from the breast
+    Of the great Indra, where before it hung,
+    A garland of the ever-blooming tree
+    Of Nandana was cast about my neck
+    By his own hand: while, in the very presence
+    Of the assembled gods, I was enthroned
+    Beside their mighty lord, who smiled to see
+    His son Jayanta envious of the honor.
+
+MÁTALI.--There is no mark of distinction which your Majesty does not
+deserve at the hands of the immortals. See,
+    Heaven's hosts acknowledge thee their second saviour;
+    For now thy bow's unerring shafts (as erst
+    The lion-man's terrific claws) have purged
+    The empyreal sphere from taint of demons foul.
+
+KING.--The praise of my victory must be ascribed to the majesty of
+Indra.
+    When mighty gods make men their delegates
+    In martial enterprise, to them belongs
+    The palm of victory; and not to mortals.
+    Could the pale Dawn dispel the shades of night,
+    Did not the god of day, whose diadem
+    Is jewelled with a thousand beams of light,
+    Place him in front of his effulgent car?
+
+MÁTALI.--A very just comparison. [_Driving on._] Great King, behold! the
+glory of thy fame has reached even to the vault of heaven.
+    Hark! yonder inmates of the starry sphere
+    Sing anthems worthy of thy martial deeds,
+    While with celestial colors they depict
+    The story of thy victories on scrolls
+    Formed of the leaves of heaven's immortal trees.
+
+KING.--My good Mátali, yesterday, when I ascended the sky, I was so
+eager to do battle with the demons, that the road by which we were
+travelling towards Indra's heaven escaped my observation. Tell me, in
+which path of the seven winds are we now moving?
+
+MÁTALI.--We journey in the path of Parivaha;
+    The wind that bears along the triple Ganges,
+    And causes Ursa's seven stars to roll
+    In their appointed orbits, scattering
+    Their several rays with equal distribution.
+    'Tis the same path that once was sanctified
+    By the divine impression of the foot
+    Of Vishnu, when, to conquer haughty Bali,
+    He spanned the heavens in his second stride.
+
+KING.--This is the reason, I suppose, that a sensation of calm repose
+pervades all my senses. [_Looking down at the wheels._] Ah! Mátali, we
+are descending towards the earth's atmosphere.
+
+MÁTALI.--What makes you think so?
+
+KING.--The car itself instructs me; we are moving
+    O'er pregnant clouds, surcharged with rain; below us
+    I see the moisture-loving Chátakas
+    In sportive flight dart through the spokes; the steeds
+    Of Indra glisten with the lightning's flash;
+    And a thick mist bedews the circling wheels.
+
+MÁTALI.--You are right; in a little while the chariot will touch the
+ground, and you will be in your own dominions.
+
+KING [_looking down_],--How wonderful is the appearance of the earth as
+we rapidly descend!
+    Stupendous prospect! yonder lofty hills
+    Do suddenly uprear their towering heads
+    Amid the plain, while from beneath their crests
+    The ground receding sinks; the trees, whose stems
+    Seemed lately hid within their leafy tresses,
+    Rise into elevation, and display
+    Their branching shoulders; yonder streams, whose waters,
+    Like silver threads, but now were scarcely seen,
+    Grow into mighty rivers; lo! the earth
+    Seems upward hurled by some gigantic power.
+
+MÁTALI.--Well described! [_Looking with awe._] Grand, indeed, and lovely
+is the spectacle presented by the earth.
+
+KING.--Tell me, Mátali, what is that range of mountains which, like a
+bank of clouds illumined by the setting sun, pours down a stream of
+gold? On one side its base dips into the eastern ocean, and on the other
+side into the western.
+
+MÁTALI.--Great Prince, it is called "Golden-peak,"[43] and is the abode
+of the attendants of the god of Wealth. In this spot the highest forms
+of penance are wrought out.
+    There Kaśyapa, the great progenitor
+    Of demons and of gods, himself the offspring
+    Of the divine Maríchi, Brahmá's son,
+    With Aditi, his wife, in calm seclusion,
+    Does holy penance for the good of mortals.
+
+KING.--Then I must not neglect so good an opportunity of obtaining his
+blessing. I should much like to visit this venerable personage and offer
+him my homage.
+
+MÁTALI.--By all means! An excellent idea. [_Guides the car to the
+earth._]
+
+KING [_in a tone of wonder_].--How's this?
+    Our chariot wheels move noiselessly. Around
+    No clouds of dust arise; no shock betokened
+    Our contact with the earth; we seem to glide
+    Above the ground, so lightly do we touch it.
+
+MÁTALI.--Such is the difference between the car of Indra and that of
+your Majesty.
+
+KING.--In which direction, Mátali, is Kaśyapa's sacred retreat?
+
+MÁTALI [_pointing_].--Where stands yon anchorite, towards the orb
+    Of the meridian sun, immovable
+    As a tree's stem, his body half-concealed
+    By a huge ant-hill. Round about his breast
+    No sacred cord is twined, but in its stead
+    A hideous serpent's skin. In place of necklace,
+    The tendrils of a withered creeper chafe
+    His wasted neck. His matted hair depends
+    In thick entanglement about his shoulders,
+    And birds construct their nests within its folds.
+
+KING.--I salute thee, thou man of austere devotion.
+
+MÁTALI [_holding in the reins of the car_].--Great Prince, we are now in
+the sacred grove of the holy Kaśyapa--the grove that boasts as its
+ornament one of the five trees of Indra's heaven, reared by Aditi.
+
+KING.--This sacred retreat is more delightful than heaven itself. I
+could almost fancy myself bathing in a pool of nectar.
+
+MÁTALI [_stopping the chariot_].--Descend, mighty Prince.
+
+KING [_descending_].--And what will you do, Mátali?
+
+MÁTALI.--The chariot will remain where I have stopped it. We may both
+descend. [_Doing so._] This way, great King, [_Walking on._] You see
+around you the celebrated region where the holiest sages devote
+themselves to penitential rites.
+
+KING.--I am filled with awe and wonder as I gaze.
+    In such a place as this do saints of earth
+    Long to complete their acts of penance; here,
+    Beneath the shade of everlasting trees,
+    Transplanted from the groves of Paradise,
+    May they inhale the balmy air, and need
+    No other nourishment; here may they bathe
+    In fountains sparkling with the golden dust
+    Of lilies; here, on jewelled slabs of marble,
+    In meditation rapt, may they recline;
+    Here, in the presence of celestial nymphs,
+    E'en passion's voice is powerless to move them.
+
+MÁTALI.--So true is it that the aspirations of the good and great are
+ever soaring upwards. [_Turning round and speaking off the stage_.] Tell
+me, Vriddha-śákalya, how is the divine son of Maríchi now engaged? What
+sayest thou? that he is conversing with Aditi and some of the wives of
+the great sages, and that they are questioning him respecting the duties
+of a faithful wife?
+
+KING [_listening_].--Then we must await the holy father's leisure.
+
+MÁTALI [_looking at the King_].--If your Majesty will rest under the
+shade, at the foot of this Aśoka-tree, I will seek an opportunity of
+announcing your arrival to Indra's reputed father.
+
+KING.--As you think proper.          [_Remains under the tree_.
+
+MÁTALI.--Great King, I go.          [_Exit._
+
+KING [_feeling his arm throb_].--Wherefore this causeless throbbing, O
+mine arm?
+    All hope has fled forever; mock me not
+    With presages of good, when happiness
+    Is lost, and nought but misery remains.
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--Be not so naughty. Do you begin already
+to show a refractory spirit?
+
+KING [_listening_].--This is no place for petulance. Who can it be whose
+behavior calls for such a rebuke? [_Looking in the direction of the
+sound and smiling_.] A child, is it? closely attended by two holy women.
+His disposition seems anything but childlike. See,
+    He braves the fury of yon lioness
+    Suckling its savage offspring, and compels
+    The angry whelp to leave the half-sucked dug,
+    Tearing its tender mane in boisterous sport.
+
+_Enter a child, attended by two women of the hermitage, In the manner
+described_.
+
+CHILD.--Open your mouth, my young lion, I want to count your teeth.
+
+FIRST ATTENDANT.--You naughty child, why do you tease the animals? Know
+you not that we cherish them in this hermitage as if they were our own
+children? In good sooth, you have a high spirit of your own, and are
+beginning already to do justice to the name Sarva-damana (All-taming),
+given you by the hermits.
+
+KING.--Strange! My heart inclines towards the boy with almost as much
+affection as if he were my own child. What can be the reason? I suppose
+my own childlessness makes me yearn towards the sons of others.
+
+SECOND ATTENDANT.--This lioness will certainly attack you if you do not
+release her whelp.
+
+CHILD [_laughing_].--Oh! indeed! let her come. Much I fear her, to be
+sure.          [_Pouts his under-lip in defiance_.
+
+KING.--The germ of mighty courage lies concealed
+    Within this noble infant, like a spark
+    Beneath the fuel, waiting but a breath
+    To fan the flame and raise a conflagration.
+
+FIRST ATTENDANT.--Let the young lion go, like a dear child, and I will
+give you something else to play with.
+
+CHILD.--Where is it? Give it me first.
+          [_Stretches out his hand._
+
+KING [_looking at his hand_].--How's this? His hand exhibits one of
+those mystic marks which are the sure prognostic of universal empire.
+See!
+    His fingers stretched in eager expectation
+    To grasp the wished-for toy, and knit together
+    By a close-woven web, in shape resemble
+    A lotus-blossom, whose expanding petals
+    The early dawn has only half unfolded.
+
+SECOND ATTENDANT.--We shall never pacify him by mere words, dear
+Suvratá. Be kind enough to go to my cottage, and you will find there a
+plaything belonging to Márkándeya, one of the hermit's children. It is a
+peacock made of China-ware, painted in many colors. Bring it here for
+the child.
+
+FIRST ATTENDANT.--Very well.          [_Exit._
+
+CHILD.--No, no; I shall go on playing with the young lion.
+
+          [_Looks at the female attendant and laughs_.
+
+KING.--I feel an unaccountable affection for this wayward child.
+    How blessed the virtuous parents whose attire
+    Is soiled with dust, by raising from the ground
+    The child that asks a refuge in their arms!
+    And happy are they while with lisping prattle,
+    In accents sweetly inarticulate,
+    He charms their ears; and with his artless smiles
+    Gladdens their hearts, revealing to their gaze
+    His tiny teeth, just budding into view.
+
+ATTENDANT.--I see how it is. He pays me no manner of attention.
+[_Looking off the stage._] I wonder whether any of the hermits are about
+here. [_Seeing the King._] Kind Sir, could you come hither a moment and
+help me to release the young lion from the clutch of this child, who is
+teasing him in boyish play?
+
+KING [_approaching and smiling_].--Listen to me, thou child of a mighty
+saint.
+    Dost thou dare show a wayward spirit here?
+    Here, in this hallowed region? Take thou heed
+    Lest, as the serpent's young defiles the sandal,
+    Thou bring dishonor on the holy sage,
+    Thy tender-hearted parent, who delights
+    To shield from harm the tenants of the wood.
+
+ATTENDANT.--Gentle Sir, I thank you; but he is not the saint's son.
+
+KING.--His behavior and whole bearing would have led me to doubt it, had
+not the place of his abode encouraged the idea.
+
+[_Follows the child, and takes him by the hand, according to the request
+of the attendant. Speaking aside._
+    I marvel that the touch of this strange child
+    Should thrill me with delight; if so it be,
+    How must the fond caresses of a son
+    Transport the father's soul who gave him being!
+
+ATTENDANT [_looking at them both_].--Wonderful! Prodigious!
+
+KING.--What excites your surprise, my good woman?
+
+ATTENDANT.--I am astonished at the striking resemblance between the
+child and yourself; and, what is still more extraordinary, he seems to
+have taken to you kindly and submissively, though you are a stranger to
+him.
+
+KING [_fondling the child_].--If he be not the son of the great sage, of
+what family does he come, may I ask?
+
+ATTENDANT.--Of the race of Puru.
+
+KING [_aside_].--What! are we, then, descended from the same ancestry?
+This, no doubt, accounts for the resemblance she traces between the
+child and me. Certainly it has always been an established usage among
+the princes of Puru's race,
+    To dedicate the morning of their days
+    To the world's weal, in palaces and halls,
+    'Mid luxury and regal pomp abiding;
+    Then, in the wane of life, to seek release
+    From kingly cares, and make the hallowed shade
+    Of sacred trees their last asylum, where
+    As hermits they may practise self-abasement,
+    And bind themselves by rigid vows of penance.
+[_Aloud._] But how could mortals by their own power gain admission to
+this sacred region?
+
+ATTENDANT.--Your remark is just; but your wonder will cease when I tell
+you that his mother is the offspring of a celestial nymph, and gave him
+birth in the hallowed grove of Kaśyapa.
+
+KING [_aside_].--Strange that my hopes should be again excited!
+[_Aloud._] But what, let me ask, was the name of the prince whom she
+deigned to honor with her hand?
+
+ATTENDANT.--How could I think of polluting my lips by the mention of a
+wretch who had the cruelty to desert his lawful wife?
+
+KING [_aside_].--Ha! the description suits me exactly. Would I could
+bring myself to inquire the name of the child's mother! [_Reflecting._]
+But it is against propriety to make too minute inquiries about the wife
+of another man.
+
+FIRST ATTENDANT [_entering with the china peacock in her
+hand_].--Sarva-damana, Sarva-damana, see, see, what a beautiful Śakoonta
+(bird).
+
+CHILD [_looking round_].--My mother! Where? Let me go to her.
+
+BOTH ATTENDANTS.--He mistook the word Śakoonta for Śakoontalá. The boy
+dotes upon his mother, and she is ever uppermost in his thoughts.
+
+SECOND ATTENDANT.--Nay, my dear child, I said, Look at the beauty of
+this Śakoonta.
+
+KING [_aside_].--What! is his mother's name Śakoontalá? But the name is
+not uncommon among women. Alas! I fear the mere similarity of a name,
+like the deceitful vapor of the desert, has once more raised my hopes
+only to dash them to the ground.
+
+CHILD [_takes the toy_].--Dear nurse, what a beautiful peacock!
+
+FIRST ATTENDANT [_looking at the child. In great distress_].--Alas!
+alas! I do not see the amulet on his wrist.
+
+KING.--Don't distress yourself. Here it is. It fell off while he was
+struggling with the young lion.
+
+          [_Stoops to pick it up_.
+
+BOTH ATTENDANTS.--Hold! hold! Touch it not, for your life. How
+marvellous! He has actually taken it up without the slightest
+hesitation.
+
+[_Both raise their hands to their breasts and look at each other in
+astonishment._
+
+KING.--Why did you try to prevent my touching it?
+
+FIRST ATTENDANT.--Listen, great Monarch. This amulet, known as "The
+Invincible," was given to the boy by the divine son of Maríchi, soon
+after his birth, when the natal ceremony was performed. Its peculiar
+virtue is, that when it falls on the ground, no one excepting the father
+or mother of the child can touch it unhurt.
+
+KING.--And suppose another person touches it?
+
+FIRST ATTENDANT.--Then it instantly becomes a serpent, and bites him.
+
+KING.--Have you ever witnessed the transformation with your own eyes?
+
+BOTH ATTENDANTS.--Over and over again.
+
+KING [_with rapture. Aside_].--Joy! joy! Are then my dearest hopes to be
+fulfilled?
+          [_Embraces the child_.
+
+SECOND ATTENDANT.--Come, my dear Suvratá, we must inform Śakoontalá
+immediately of this wonderful event, though we have to interrupt her in
+the performance of her religious vows.
+          [_Exeunt._
+
+CHILD [_to the King_].--Do not hold me. I want to go to my mother.
+
+KING.--We will go to her together, and give her joy, my son.
+
+CHILD.--Dushyanta is my father, not you.
+
+KING [_smiling_].--His contradiction convinces me only the more.
+
+_Enter Śakoontalá, in widow's apparel, with her long hair twisted into a
+single braid_.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_aside_].--I have just heard that Sarva-damana's amulet has
+retained its form, though a stranger raised it from the ground. I can
+hardly believe in my good fortune. Yet why should not Sánumatí's
+prediction be verified?
+
+KING [_gazing at Śakoontalá_].--Alas! can this indeed be my Śakoontalá?
+    Clad in the weeds of widowhood, her face
+    Emaciate with fasting, her long hair
+    Twined in a single braid, her whole demeanor
+    Expressive of her purity of soul:
+    With patient constancy she thus prolongs
+    The vow to which my cruelty condemned her.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_gazing at the King, who is pale with remorse_]. Surely this
+is not like my husband; yet who can it be that dares pollute by the
+pressure of his hand my child, whose amulet should protect him from a
+stranger's touch?
+
+CHILD [_going to his mother_].--Mother, who is this man that has been
+kissing me and calling me his son?
+
+KING.--My best beloved, I have indeed treated thee most cruelly, but am
+now once more thy fond and affectionate lover. Refuse not to acknowledge
+me as thy husband.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_aside_].--Be of good cheer, my heart. The anger of Destiny
+is at last appeased. Heaven regards thee with compassion. But is he in
+very truth my husband?
+
+KING.--Behold me, best and loveliest of women,
+    Delivered from the cloud of fatal darkness
+    That erst oppressed my memory. Again
+    Behold us brought together by the grace
+    Of the great lord of Heaven. So the moon
+    Shines forth from dim eclipse, to blend his rays
+    With the soft lustre of his Rohiní.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--May my husband be victorious------
+          [_She stops short, her voice choked with tears._
+
+KING.--O fair one, though the utterance of thy prayer
+    Be lost amid the torrent of thy tears,
+    Yet does the sight of thy fair countenance,
+    And of thy pallid lips, all unadorned
+    And colorless in sorrow for my absence,
+    Make me already more than conqueror.
+
+CHILD.--Mother, who is this man?
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--My child, ask the deity that presides over thy destiny.
+
+KING [_falling at Śakoontalá's feet_].--Fairest of women, banish from
+thy mind
+    The memory of my cruelty; reproach
+    The fell delusion that overpowered my soul,
+    And blame not me, thy husband; 'tis the curse
+    Of him in whom the power of darkness reigns,
+    That he mistakes the gifts of those he loves
+    For deadly evils. Even though a friend
+    Should wreathe a garland on a blind man's brow,
+    Will he not cast it from him as a serpent?
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--Rise, my own husband, rise. Thou wast not to blame. My own
+evil deeds, committed in a former state of being, brought down this
+judgment upon me. How else could my husband, who was ever of a
+compassionate disposition, have acted so unfeelingly? [_The King
+rises_.] But tell me, my husband, how did the remembrance of thine
+unfortunate wife return to thy mind?
+
+KING.--As soon as my heart's anguish is removed, and its wounds are
+healed, I will tell thee all.
+    Oh! let me, fair one, chase away the drop
+    That still bedews the fringes of thine eye;
+    And let me thus efface the memory
+    Of every tear that stained thy velvet cheek,
+    Unnoticed and unheeded by thy lord,
+    When in his madness he rejected thee.
+          [_Wipes away the tear_.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_seeing the signet-ring on his finger_].--Ah! my dear
+husband, is that the Lost Ring?
+
+KING.--Yes; the moment I recovered it, my memory was restored.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--The ring was to blame in allowing itself to be lost at the
+very time when I was anxious to convince my noble husband of the reality
+of my marriage.
+
+KING.--Receive it back, as the beautiful twining plant receives again
+its blossom in token of its reunion with the spring.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--Nay; I can never more place confidence in it. Let my
+husband retain it.
+
+          _Enter Mátali_.
+
+MÁTALI.--I congratulate your Majesty. Happy are you in your reunion with
+your wife: happy are you in beholding the face of your son.
+
+KING.--Yes, indeed. My heart's dearest wish has borne sweet fruit. But
+tell me, Mátali, is this joyful event known to the great Indra?
+
+MÁTALI [_smiling_].--What is unknown to the gods? But come with me,
+noble Prince, the divine Kaśyapa graciously permits thee to be presented
+to him.
+
+KING.--Śakoontalá, take our child and lead the way. We will together go
+into the presence of the holy Sage.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--I shrink from entering the august presence of the great
+Saint, even with my husband at my side.
+
+KING.--Nay; on such a joyous occasion it is highly proper. Come, come; I
+entreat thee.          [_All advance_.
+
+          _Kaśyapa is discovered seated on a throne with his wife Aditi_.
+
+KAŚYAPA [_gazing at Dushyanta. To his wife_].--O Aditi, This is the
+mighty hero, King Dushyanta, Protector of the earth; who, at the head Of
+the celestial armies of thy son, Does battle with the enemies of heaven.
+Thanks to his bow, the thunderbolt of Indra Rests from its work, no more
+the minister Of death and desolation to the world, But a mere symbol of
+divinity.
+
+ADITI.--He bears in his noble form all the marks of dignity.
+
+MÁTALI [_to Dushyanta_].--Sire, the venerable progenitors of the
+celestials are gazing at your Majesty with as much affection as if you
+were their son. You may advance towards them.
+
+KING.--Are these, O Mátali, the holy pair,
+    Offspring of Daksha and divine Maríchi,
+    Children of Brahmá's sons, by sages deemed
+    Sole fountain of celestial light, diffused
+    Through twelve effulgent orbs? Are these the pair
+    From whom the ruler of the triple world,
+    Sovereign of gods and lord of sacrifice,
+    Sprang into being? That immortal pair
+    Whom Vishnu, greater than the self-existent,
+    Chose for his parents, when, to save mankind,
+    He took upon himself the shape of mortals?
+
+MÁTALI.--Even so.
+
+KING [_prostrating himself_].--Most august of beings, Dushyanta, content
+to have fulfilled the commands of your son Indra, offers you his
+adoration.
+
+KAŚYAPA.--My son, long may'st thou live, and happily may'st thou reign
+over the earth!
+
+ADITI.--My son, may'st thou ever be invincible in the field of battle!
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ.--I also prostrate myself before you, most adorable beings,
+and my child with me.
+
+KAŚYAPA.--My daughter,
+    Thy lord resembles Indra, and thy child
+    Is noble as Jayanta, Indra's son;
+    I have no worthier blessing left for thee,
+    May'st thou be faithful as the god's own wife!
+
+ADITI.--My daughter, may'st thou be always the object of thy husband's
+fondest love; and may thy son live long to be the joy of both his
+parents! Be seated.
+
+          [_All sit down in the presence of Kaśyapa_.
+
+KAŚYAPA [_regarding each of them by turns_].--Hail to the beautiful
+Śakoontalá!
+    Hail to her noble son! and hail to thee,
+    Illustrious Prince! Rare triple combination
+    Of virtue, wealth, and energy united!
+
+KING.--Most venerable Kaśyapa, by your favor all my desires were
+accomplished even before I was admitted to your presence. Never was
+mortal so honored that his boon should be granted ere it was solicited.
+Because,
+    Bloom before fruit, the clouds before the rain--
+    Cause first and then effect, in endless sequence,
+    Is the unchanging law of constant nature:
+    But, ere the blessing issued from thy lips,
+    The wishes of my heart were all fulfilled.
+
+MÁTALI.--It is thus that the great progenitors of the world confer
+favors.
+
+KING.--Most reverend Sage, this thy handmaid was married to me by the
+Gandharva ceremony, and after a time was conducted to my palace by her
+relations. Meanwhile a fatal delusion seized me; I lost my memory and
+rejected her, thus committing a grievous offence against the venerable
+Kanwa, who is of thy divine race. Afterwards the sight of this ring
+restored my faculties, and brought back to my mind all the circumstances
+of my union with his daughter. But my conduct still seems to me
+incomprehensible;
+    As foolish as the fancies of a man
+    Who, when he sees an elephant, denies
+    That 'tis an elephant, yet afterwards,
+    When its huge bulk moves onward, hesitates,
+    Yet will not be convinced till it has passed
+    Forever from his sight, and left behind
+    No vestige of its presence save its footsteps.
+
+KASYAPA.--My son, cease to think thyself in fault. Even the delusion
+that possessed thy mind was not brought about by any act of thine.
+Listen to me.
+
+KING.--I am attentive.
+
+KASYAPA.--Know that when the nymph Menaká, the mother of Śakoontalá,
+became aware of her daughter's anguish in consequence of the loss of the
+ring at the nymphs' pool, and of thy subsequent rejection of her, she
+brought her and confided her to the care of Aditi. And I no sooner saw
+her than I ascertained by my divine power of meditation, that thy
+repudiation of thy poor faithful wife had been caused entirely by the
+curse of Durvásas--not by thine own fault--and that the spell would
+terminate on the discovery of the ring.
+
+KING [_drawing a deep breath_].--Oh! what a weight is taken off my mind,
+now that my character is cleared of reproach.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_aside_].--Joy! joy! My revered husband did not, then,
+reject me without good reason, though I have no recollection of the
+curse pronounced upon me. But, in all probability, I unconsciously
+brought it upon myself, when I was so distracted on being separated from
+my husband soon after our marriage. For I now remember that my two
+friends advised me not to fail to show the ring in case he should have
+forgotten me.
+
+KAŚYAPA.--At last, my daughter, thou art happy, and hast gained thy
+heart's desire. Indulge, then, no feeling of resentment against thy
+partner. See, now,
+    Though he repulsed thee, 'twas the sage's curse
+    That clouded his remembrance; 'twas the curse
+    That made thy tender husband harsh towards thee.
+    Soon as the spell was broken, and his soul
+    Delivered from its darkness, in a moment
+    Thou didst gain thine empire o'er his heart.
+    So on the tarnished surface of a mirror
+    No image is reflected, till the dust
+    That dimmed its wonted lustre is removed.
+
+KING.--Holy father, see here the hope of my royal race.
+          [_Takes his child by the hand_.
+
+KAŚYAPA.--Know that he, too, will become the monarch of the whole earth.
+Observe,
+    Soon, a resistless hero, shall he cross
+    The trackless ocean, borne above the waves
+    In an aerial car; and shall subdue
+    The earth's seven sea-girt isles.[44] Now has he gained,
+    As the brave tamer of the forest-beasts,
+    The title Sarva-damana; but then
+    Mankind shall hail him as King Bharata,
+    And call him the supporter of the world.
+
+KING.--We cannot but entertain the highest hopes of a child for whom
+your highness performed the natal rites.
+
+ADITI.--My revered husband, should not the intelligence be conveyed to
+Kanwa, that his daughter's wishes are fulfilled, and her happiness
+complete? He is Śakoontalá's foster-father. Menaká, who is one of my
+attendants, is her mother, and dearly does she love her daughter.
+
+ŚAKOONTALÁ [_aside_].--The venerable matron has given utterance to the
+very wish that was in my mind.
+
+KAŚYAPA.--His penances have gained for him the faculty of omniscience,
+and the whole scene is already present to his mind's eye.
+
+KING.--Then most assuredly he cannot be very angry with me.
+
+KAŚYAPA.--Nevertheless it becomes us to send him intelligence of this
+happy event, and hear his reply. What, ho there!
+
+PUPIL [_entering_].--Holy father, what are your commands?
+
+KAŚYAPA.--My good Gálava, delay not an instant, but hasten through the
+air and convey to the venerable Kanwa, from me, the happy news that the
+fatal spell has ceased, that Dushyanta's memory is restored, that his
+daughter Śakoontalá has a son, and that she is once more tenderly
+acknowledged by her husband.
+
+PUPIL.--Your highness's commands shall be obeyed.          [_Exit._
+
+KAŚYAPA.--And now, my dear son, take thy consort and thy child,
+re-ascend the car of Indra, and return to thy imperial capital.
+
+KING.--Most holy father, I obey.
+
+KAŚYAPA.--And accept this blessing--
+    For countless ages may the god of gods,
+    Lord of the atmosphere, by copious showers
+    Secure abundant harvest to thy subjects;
+    And thou by frequent offerings preserve
+    The Thunderer's friendship! Thus, by interchange
+    Of kindly actions, may you both confer
+    Unnumbered benefits on earth and heaven!
+
+KING.--Holy father, I will strive, as far as I am able, to attain this
+happiness.
+
+KAŚYAPA.--What other favor can I bestow on thee, my son?
+
+KING.--What other can I desire? If, however, you permit me to form
+another wish, I would humbly beg that the saying of the sage Bharata be
+fulfilled:--
+    May kings reign only for their subjects' weal!
+    May the divine Saraswati, the source
+    Of speech, and goddess of dramatic art,
+    Be ever honored by the great and wise!
+    And may the purple self-existent god,
+    Whose vital Energy pervades all space,
+    From future transmigrations save my soul!
+
+          [_Exeunt omnes_.
+
+
+[43] A sacred range of mountains lying along the Himálaya chain
+immediately adjacent to Kailása, the paradise of Kuvera, the god of
+wealth.
+
+[44] According to the mythical geography of the Hindoos the earth
+consisted of seven islands surrounded by seven seas.
+
+
+
+
+BALLADS OF HINDOSTAN
+
+
+MISCELLANEOUS POEMS
+
+BY
+
+TORU DUTT
+
+
+INTRODUCTION
+
+
+If Toru Dutt were alive, she would still be younger than any recognized
+European writer, and yet her fame, which is already considerable, has
+been entirely posthumous. Within the brief space of four years which now
+divides us from the date of her decease, her genius has been revealed to
+the world under many phases, and has been recognized throughout France
+and England. Her name, at least, is no longer unfamiliar in the ear of
+any well-read man or woman. But at the hour of her death she had
+published but one book, and that book had found but two reviewers in
+Europe. One of these, M. André Theuriet, the well-known poet and
+novelist, gave the "Sheaf gleaned in French Fields" adequate praise in
+the "Revue des Deux Mondes"; but the other, the writer of the present
+notice, has a melancholy satisfaction in having been a little earlier
+still in sounding the only note of welcome which reached the dying
+poetess from England. It was while Professor W. Minto was editor of the
+"Examiner," that one day in August, 1876, in the very heart of the dead
+season for books, I happened to be in the office of that newspaper, and
+was upbraiding the whole body of publishers for issuing no books worth
+reviewing. At that moment the postman brought in a thin and sallow
+packet with a wonderful Indian postmark on it, and containing a most
+unattractive orange pamphlet of verse, printed at Bhowanipore, and
+entitled "A Sheaf gleaned in French Fields, by Toru Dutt." This shabby
+little book of some two hundred pages, without preface or introduction,
+seemed specially destined by its particular providence to find its way
+hastily into the waste-paper basket. I remember that Mr. Minto thrust it
+into my unwilling hands, and said "There! see whether you can't make
+something of that." A hopeless volume it seemed, with its queer type,
+published at Bhowanipore, printed at the Saptahiksambad Press! But when
+at last I took it out of my pocket, what was my surprise and almost
+rapture to open at such verse as this:--
+
+    "Still barred thy doors! The far East glows,
+      The morning wind blows fresh and free.
+    Should not the hour that wakes the rose
+            Awaken also thee?
+
+    "All look for thee, Love, Light, and Song,
+      Light in the sky deep red above,
+    Song, in the lark of pinions strong,
+            And in my heart, true Love.
+
+    "Apart we miss our nature's goal,
+      Why strive to cheat our destinies?
+    Was not my love made for thy soul?
+      Thy beauty for mine eyes?
+            No longer sleep,
+              Oh, listen now!
+            I wait and weep,
+              But where art thou?"
+
+When poetry is as good as this it does not much matter whether Rouveyre
+prints it upon Whatman paper, or whether it steals to light in blurred
+type from some press in Bhowanipore.
+
+Toru Dutt was the youngest of the three children of a high-caste Hindoo
+couple in Bengal. Her father, who survives them all, the Baboo Govin
+Chunder Dutt, is himself distinguished among his countrymen for the
+width of his views and the vigor of his intelligence. His only son,
+Abju, died in 1865, at the age of fourteen, and left his two younger
+sisters to console their parents. Aru, the elder daughter, born in 1854,
+was eighteen months senior to Toru, the subject of this memoir, who was
+born in Calcutta on March 4, 1856. With the exception of one year's
+visit to Bombay, the childhood of these girls was spent in Calcutta, at
+their father's garden-house. In a poem now printed for the first time,
+Toru refers to the scene of her earliest memories, the circling
+wilderness of foliage, the shining tank with the round leaves of the
+lilies, the murmuring dusk under the vast branches of the central
+casuarina-tree. Here, in a mystical retirement more irksome to a
+European in fancy than to an Oriental in reality, the brain of this
+wonderful child was moulded. She was pure Hindoo, full of the typical
+qualities of her race and blood, and, as the present volume shows us for
+the first time, preserving to the last her appreciation of the poetic
+side of her ancient religion, though faith itself in Vishnu and Siva had
+been cast aside with childish things and been replaced by a purer faith.
+Her mother fed her imagination with the old songs and legends of their
+people, stories which it was the last labor of her life to weave into
+English verse; but it would seem that the marvellous faculties of Toru's
+mind still slumbered, when, in her thirteenth year, her father decided
+to take his daughters to Europe to learn English and French. To the end
+of her days Toru was a better French than English scholar. She loved
+France best, she knew its literature best, she wrote its language with
+more perfect elegance. The Dutts arrived in Europe at the close of 1869,
+and the girls went to school, for the first and last time, at a French
+pension. They did not remain there very many months; their father took
+them to Italy and England with him, and finally they attended for a
+short time, but with great zeal and application, the lectures for women
+at Cambridge. In November, 1873, they went back to Bengal, and the four
+remaining years of Toru's life were spent in the old garden-house at
+Calcutta, in a feverish dream of intellectual effort and imaginative
+production. When we consider what she achieved in these forty-five
+months of seclusion, it is impossible to wonder that the frail and
+hectic body succumbed under so excessive a strain.
+
+She brought with her from Europe a store of knowledge that would have
+sufficed to make an English or French girl seem learned, but which in
+her case was simply miraculous. Immediately on her return she began to
+study Sanscrit with the same intense application which she gave to all
+her work, and mastering the language with extraordinary swiftness, she
+plunged into its mysterious literature. But she was born to write, and
+despairing of an audience in her own language, she began to adopt ours
+as a medium for her thought. Her first essay, published when she was
+eighteen, was a monograph, in the "Bengal Magazine," on Leconte de
+Lisle, a writer with whom she had a sympathy which is very easy to
+comprehend. The austere poet of "La Mort de Valmiki" was, obviously, a
+figure to whom the poet of "Sindhu" must needs be attracted on
+approaching European literature. This study, which was illustrated by
+translations into English verse, was followed by another on Joséphin
+Soulary, in whom she saw more than her maturer judgment might have
+justified. There is something very interesting and now, alas! still more
+pathetic in these sturdy and workmanlike essays in unaided criticism.
+Still more solitary her work became, in July, 1874, when her only
+sister, Aru, died, at the age of twenty. She seems to have been no less
+amiable than her sister, and if gifted with less originality and a less
+forcible ambition, to have been finely accomplished. Both sisters were
+well-trained musicians, with full contralto voices, and Aru had a
+faculty for design which promised well. The romance of "Mlle. D'Arvers"
+was originally projected for Aru to illustrate, but no page of this book
+did Aru ever see.
+
+In 1876, as we have said, appeared that obscure first volume at
+Bhowanipore. The "Sheaf gleaned in French Fields" is certainly the most
+imperfect of Toru's writings, but it is not the least interesting. It is
+a wonderful mixture of strength and weakness, of genius overriding great
+obstacles, and of talent succumbing to ignorance and inexperience. That
+it should have been performed at all is so extraordinary that we forget
+to be surprised at its inequality. The English verse is sometimes
+exquisite; at other times the rules of our prosody are absolutely
+ignored, and it is obvious that the Hindoo poetess was chanting to
+herself a music that is discord in an English ear. The notes are no less
+curious, and to a stranger no less bewildering. Nothing could be more
+naive than the writer's ignorance at some points, or more startling than
+her learning at others. On the whole, the attainment of the book was
+simply astounding. It consisted of a selection of translations from
+nearly one hundred French poets, chosen by the poetess herself on a
+principle of her own which gradually dawned upon the careful reader. She
+eschewed the Classicist writers as though they had never existed. For
+her André Chenier was the next name in chronological order after Du
+Bartas. Occasionally she showed a profundity of research that would have
+done no discredit to Mr. Saintsbury or "le doux Assellineau." She was
+ready to pronounce an opinion on Napol le Pyrénéan or detect a
+plagiarism in Baudelaire. But she thought that Alexander Smith was still
+alive, and she was curiously vague about the career of Sainte-Beuve.
+This inequality of equipment was a thing inevitable to her isolation,
+and hardly worthy recording, except to show how laborious her mind was,
+and how quick to make the best of small resources.
+
+We have already seen that the "Sheaf gleaned in French Fields" attracted
+the very minimum of attention in England. In France it was talked about
+a little more. M. Garcin de Tassy, the famous Orientalist, who scarcely
+survived Toru by twelve months, spoke of it to Mlle. Clarisse Bader,
+author of a somewhat remarkable book on the position of women in ancient
+Indian society. Almost simultaneously this volume fell into the hands of
+Toru, and she was moved to translate it into English, for the use of
+Hindoos less instructed than herself. In January, 1877, she accordingly
+wrote to Mlle. Bader requesting her authorization, and received a prompt
+and kind reply. On the 18th of March Toru wrote again to this, her
+solitary correspondent in the world of European literature, and her
+letter, which has been preserved, shows that she had already descended
+into the valley of the shadow of death:--
+
+     "Ma constitution n'est pas forte; j'ai contracté une toux
+     opiniâtre, il y a plus de deux ans, qui ne me quitte point.
+     Cependant j'espère mettre la main à l'oeuvre bientôt. Je ne peux
+     dire, mademoiselle, combien votre affection--car vous les aimez,
+     votre livre et votre lettre en témoignent assez--pour mes
+     compatriotes et mon pays me touche; et je suis fière de pouvoir le
+     dire que les héroïnes de nos grandes épopées sont dignes de tout
+     honneur et de tout amour. Y a-t-il d'héroïne plus touchante, plus
+     aimable que Sîta? Je ne le crois pas. _Quand j'entends ma mére
+     chanter, le soir, les vieux chants de notre pays, je pleure presque
+     toujours_. La plainte de Sîta, quand, bannie pour la séconde fois,
+     elle erre dans la vaste forêt, seule, le désespoir et l'effroi dans
+     l'âme, est si pathétique qu'il n'y a personne, je crois, qui puisse
+     l'entendre sans verser des larmes. Je vous envois sous ce pli deux
+     petites traductions du Sanscrit, cette belle langue antique.
+     Malheureusement j'ai été obligée de faire cesser mes traductions de
+     Sanscrit, il y a six mois. Ma santé ne me permet pas de les
+     continuer."
+
+These simple and pathetic words, in which the dying poetess pours out
+her heart to the one friend she had, and that one gained too late, seem
+as touching and as beautiful as any strain of Marceline Valmore's
+immortal verse. In English poetry I do not remember anything that
+exactly parallels their resigned melancholy. Before the month of March
+was over, Toru had taken to her bed. Unable to write, she continued to
+read, strewing her sick-room with the latest European books, and
+entering with interest into the questions raised by the Société
+Asiatique of Paris, in its printed Transactions. On the 30th of July she
+wrote her last letter to Mlle. Clarisse Bader, and a month later, on
+August 30, 1877, at the age of twenty-one years six months and
+twenty-six days, she breathed her last in her father's house in
+Maniktollah street, Calcutta.
+
+In the first distraction of grief it seemed as though her unequalled
+promise had been entirely blighted, and as though she would be
+remembered only by her single book. But as her father examined her
+papers, one completed work after another revealed itself. First a
+selection from the sonnets of the Comte de Grammont, translated into
+English, turned up, and was printed in a Calcutta magazine; then some
+fragments of an English story, which were printed in another Calcutta
+magazine. Much more important, however, than any of these was a complete
+romance, written in French, being the identical story for which her
+sister Aru had proposed to make the illustrations. In the meantime Toru
+was no sooner dead than she began to be famous. In May, 1878, there
+appeared a second edition of the "Sheaf gleaned in French Fields," with
+a touching sketch of her death, by her father; and in 1879 was
+published, under the editorial care of Mlle. Clarisse Bader, the romance
+of "Le Journal de Mlle. D'Arvers," forming a handsome volume of 259
+pages. This book, begun, as it appears, before the family returned from
+Europe, and finished nobody knows when, is an attempt to describe scenes
+from modern French society, but it is less interesting as an experiment
+of the fancy, than as a revelation of the mind of a young Hindoo woman
+of genius. The story is simple, clearly told, and interesting; the
+studies of character have nothing French about them, but they are full
+of vigor and originality. The description of the hero is most
+characteristically Indian:--
+
+     "Il est beau en effet. Sa taille est haute, mais quelques-uns la
+     trouveraient mince; sa chevelure noire est bouclée et tombe jusqu'á
+     la nuque; ses yeux noirs sont profonds et bien fendus; le front est
+     noble; la lèvre supérieure, couverte par une moustache naissante et
+     noire, est parfaitement modelée; son menton a quelque chose de
+     sévère; son teint est d'un blanc presque féminin, ce qui dénote sa
+     haute naissance."
+
+In this description we seem to recognize some Surya or Soma of Hindoo
+mythology, and the final touch, meaningless as applied to a European,
+reminds us that in India whiteness of skin has always been a sign of
+aristocratic birth, from the days when it originally distinguished the
+conquering Aryas from the indigenous race of the Dasyous.
+
+As a literary composition "Mlle. D'Arvers" deserves high commendation.
+It deals with the ungovernable passion of two brothers for one placid
+and beautiful girl, a passion which leads to fratricide and madness.
+That it is a very melancholy and tragical story is obvious from this
+brief sketch of its contents, but it is remarkable for coherence and
+self-restraint no less than for vigor of treatment. Toru Dutt never
+sinks to melodrama in the course of her extraordinary tale, and the
+wonder is that she is not more often fantastic and unreal.
+
+But we believe that the original English poems will be ultimately found
+to constitute Toru's chief legacy to posterity. These ballads form the
+last and most matured of her writings, and were left so far fragmentary
+at her death that the fourth and fifth in her projected series of nine
+were not to be discovered in any form among her papers. It is probable
+that she had not even commenced them. Her father, therefore, to give a
+certain continuity to the series, has filled up these blanks with two
+stories from the "Vishnupurana," which originally appeared respectively
+in the "Calcutta Review" and in the "Bengal Magazine." These are
+interesting, but a little rude in form, and they have not the same
+peculiar value as the rhymed octo-syllabic ballads. In these last we see
+Toru no longer attempting vainly, though heroically, to compete with
+European literature on its own ground, but turning to the legends of her
+own race and country for inspiration. No modern Oriental has given us so
+strange an insight into the conscience of the Asiatic as is presented in
+the story of "Prehíad," or so quaint a piece of religious fancy as the
+ballad of "Jogadhya Uma." The poetess seems in these verses to be
+chanting to herself those songs of her mother's race to which she always
+turned with tears of pleasure. They breathe a Vedic solemnity and
+simplicity of temper, and are singularly devoid of that littleness and
+frivolity which seem, if we may judge by a slight experience, to be the
+bane of modern India.
+
+As to the merely technical character of these poems, it may be suggested
+that in spite of much in them that is rough and inchoate, they show that
+Toru was advancing in her mastery of English verse. Such a stanza as
+this, selected out of many no less skilful, could hardly be recognized
+as the work of one by whom the language was a late acquirement:--
+
+    "What glorious trees! The sombre saul,
+      On which the eye delights to rest--
+    The betel-nut, a pillar tall,
+      With feathery branches for a crest--
+    The light-leaved tamarind spreading wide--
+      The pale faint-scented bitter neem,
+    The seemul, gorgeous as a bride,
+      With flowers that have the ruby's gleam."
+
+In other passages, of course, the text reads like a translation from
+some stirring ballad, and we feel that it gives but a faint and
+discordant echo of the music welling in Toru's brain. For it must
+frankly be confessed that in the brief May-day of her existence she had
+not time to master our language as Blanco White did, or as Chamisso
+mastered German. To the end of her days, fluent and graceful as she was,
+she was not entirely conversant with English, especially with the
+colloquial turns of modern speech. Often a very fine thought is spoiled
+for hypercritical ears by the queer turn of expression which she has
+innocently given to it. These faults are found to a much smaller degree
+in her miscellaneous poems. Her sonnets seem to me to be of great
+beauty, and her longer piece, entitled "Our Casuarina Tree," needs no
+apology for its rich and mellifluous numbers.
+
+It is difficult to exaggerate when we try to estimate what we have lost
+in the premature death of Toru Dutt. Literature has no honors which need
+have been beyond the grasp of a girl who at the age of twenty-one, and
+in languages separated from her own by so deep a chasm, had produced so
+much of lasting worth. And her courage and fortitude were worthy of her
+intelligence. Among "last words" of celebrated people, that which her
+father has recorded, "It is only the physical pain that makes me cry,"
+is not the least remarkable, or the least significant of strong
+character. It was to a native of our island, and to one ten years senior
+to Toru, to whom it was said, in words more appropriate, surely, to her
+than to Oldham,
+
+    "Thy generous fruits, though gathered ere their prime,
+    Still showed a quickness, and maturing time
+    But mellows what we write to the dull sweets of Rime."
+
+That mellow sweetness was all that Toru lacked to perfect her as an
+English poet, and of no other Oriental who has ever lived can the same
+be said. When the history of the literature of our country comes to be
+written, there is sure to be a page in it dedicated to this fragile
+exotic blossom of song.
+
+EDMUND W. GOSSE.
+
+_London, 1881_.
+
+
+
+
+BALLADS OF HINDOSTAN
+
+JOGADHYA UMA
+
+
+    "Shell-bracelets ho! Shell-bracelets ho!
+      Fair maids and matrons come and buy!"
+    Along the road, in morning's glow,
+      The pedler raised his wonted cry.
+    The road ran straight, a red, red line,
+      To Khirogram, for cream renowned,
+    Through pasture-meadows where the kine,
+      In knee-deep grass, stood magic bound
+    And half awake, involved in mist,
+      That floated in dun coils profound,
+    Till by the sudden sunbeams kissed
+      Rich rainbow hues broke all around.
+
+    "Shell-bracelets ho! Shell-bracelets ho!"
+      The roadside trees still dripped with dew,
+    And hung their blossoms like a show.
+      Who heard the cry? 'Twas but a few,
+    A ragged herd-boy, here and there,
+      With his long stick and naked feet;
+    A ploughman wending to his care,
+      The field from which he hopes the wheat;
+    An early traveller, hurrying fast
+      To the next town; an urchin slow
+    Bound for the school; these heard and passed,
+      Unheeding all--"Shell-bracelets ho!"
+
+    Pellucid spread a lake-like tank
+      Beside the road now lonelier still,
+    High on three sides arose the bank
+      Which fruit-trees shadowed at their will;
+    Upon the fourth side was the Ghat,
+      With its broad stairs of marble white,
+    And at the entrance-arch there sat,
+      Full face against the morning light,
+    A fair young woman with large eyes,
+      And dark hair falling to her zone,
+    She heard the pedler's cry arise,
+      And eager seemed his ware to own.
+
+    "Shell-bracelets ho! See, maiden see!
+      The rich enamel sunbeam kissed!
+    Happy, oh happy, shalt thou be,
+      Let them but clasp that slender wrist;
+    These bracelets are a mighty charm,
+      They keep a lover ever true,
+    And widowhood avert, and harm,
+      Buy them, and thou shalt never rue.
+    Just try them on!"--She stretched her hand,
+      "Oh what a nice and lovely fit!
+    No fairer hand, in all the land,
+      And lo! the bracelet matches it."
+
+    Dazzled the pedler on her gazed
+      Till came the shadow of a fear,
+    While she the bracelet arm upraised
+      Against the sun to view more clear.
+    Oh she was lovely, but her look
+      Had something of a high command
+    That filled with awe. Aside she shook
+      Intruding curls by breezes fanned
+    And blown across her brows and face,
+      And asked the price, which when she heard
+    She nodded, and with quiet grace
+      For payment to her home referred.
+
+    "And where, O maiden, is thy house?
+      But no, that wrist-ring has a tongue,
+    No maiden art thou, but a spouse,
+      Happy, and rich, and fair, and young."
+    "Far otherwise, my lord is poor,
+      And him at home thou shalt not find;
+    Ask for my father; at the door
+      Knock loudly; he is deaf, but kind.
+    Seest thou that lofty gilded spire
+      Above these tufts of foliage green?
+    That is our place; its point of fire
+      Will guide thee o'er the tract between."
+
+    "That is the temple spire."--"Yes, there
+      We live; my father is the priest,
+    The manse is near, a building fair
+      But lowly, to the temple's east.
+    When thou hast knocked, and seen him, say,
+      His daughter, at Dhamaser Ghat,
+    Shell-bracelets bought from thee to-day,
+      And he must pay so much for that.
+    Be sure, he will not let thee pass
+      Without the value, and a meal.
+    If he demur, or cry alas!
+      No money hath he--then reveal,
+
+    Within the small box, marked with streaks
+      Of bright vermilion, by the shrine,
+    The key whereof has lain for weeks
+      Untouched, he'll find some coin--'tis mine.
+    That will enable him to pay
+      The bracelet's price, now fare thee well!"
+    She spoke, the pedler went away,
+      Charmed with her voice, as by some spell;
+    While she left lonely there, prepared
+      To plunge into the water pure,
+    And like a rose her beauty bared,
+      From all observance quite secure.
+
+    Not weak she seemed, nor delicate,
+      Strong was each limb of flexile grace,
+    And full the bust; the mien elate,
+      Like hers, the goddess of the chase
+    On Latmos hill--and oh, the face
+      Framed in its cloud of floating hair,
+    No painter's hand might hope to trace
+      The beauty and the glory there!
+    Well might the pedler look with awe,
+      For though her eyes were soft, a ray
+    Lit them at times, which kings who saw
+      Would never dare to disobey.
+
+    Onwards through groves the pedler sped
+      Till full in front the sunlit spire
+    Arose before him. Paths which led
+      To gardens trim in gay attire
+    Lay all around. And lo! the manse,
+      Humble but neat with open door!
+    He paused, and blest the lucky chance
+      That brought his bark to such a shore.
+    Huge straw ricks, log huts full of grain,
+      Sleek cattle, flowers, a tinkling bell,
+    Spoke in a language sweet and plain,
+      "Here smiling Peace and Plenty dwell."
+
+    Unconsciously he raised his cry,
+      "Shell-bracelets ho!" And at his voice
+    Looked out the priest, with eager eye,
+      And made his heart at once rejoice.
+    "Ho, _Sankha_ pedler! Pass not by,
+      But step thou in, and share the food
+    Just offered on our altar high,
+      If thou art in a hungry mood.
+    Welcome are all to this repast!
+      The rich and poor, the high and low!
+    Come, wash thy feet, and break thy fast,
+      Then on thy journey strengthened go."
+
+    "Oh thanks, good priest! Observance due
+      And greetings! May thy name be blest!
+    I came on business, but I knew,
+      Here might be had both food and rest
+    Without a charge; for all the poor
+      Ten miles around thy sacred shrine
+    Know that thou keepest open door,
+      And praise that generous hand of thine:
+    But let my errand first be told,
+      For bracelets sold to thine this day,
+    So much thou owest me in gold,
+      Hast thou the ready cash to pay?
+
+    The bracelets were enamelled--so
+      The price is high."--"How! Sold to mine?
+    Who bought them, I should like to know."
+      "Thy daughter, with the large black eyne,
+    Now bathing at the marble ghat."
+      Loud laughed the priest at this reply,
+    "I shall not put up, friend, with that;
+      No daughter in the world have I,
+    An only son is all my stay;
+      Some minx has played a trick, no doubt,
+    But cheer up, let thy heart be gay.
+      Be sure that I shall find her out."
+
+    "Nay, nay, good father, such a face
+      Could not deceive, I must aver;
+    At all events, she knows thy place,
+      'And if my father should demur
+    To pay thee'--thus she said--'or cry
+      He has no money, tell him straight
+    The box vermilion-streaked to try,
+      That's near the shrine,'" "Well, wait, friend, wait!"
+    The priest said thoughtful, and he ran
+      And with the open box came back,
+    "Here is the price exact, my man,
+      No surplus over, and no lack.
+
+    How strange! how strange! Oh blest art thou
+      To have beheld her, touched her hand,
+    Before whom Vishnu's self must bow,
+      And Brahma and his heavenly band!
+    Here have I worshipped her for years
+      And never seen the vision bright;
+    Vigils and fasts and secret tears
+      Have almost quenched my outward sight;
+    And yet that dazzling form and face
+      I have not seen, and thou, dear friend,
+    To thee, unsought for, comes the grace,
+      What may its purport be, and end?
+
+    How strange! How strange! Oh happy thou!
+      And couldst thou ask no other boon
+    Than thy poor bracelet's price? That brow
+      Resplendent as the autumn moon
+    Must have bewildered thee, I trow,
+      And made thee lose thy senses all."
+    A dim light on the pedler now
+      Began to dawn; and he let fall
+    His bracelet basket in his haste,
+      And backward ran the way he came;
+    What meant the vision fair and chaste,
+      Whose eyes were they--those eyes of flame?
+
+    Swift ran the pedler as a hind,
+      The old priest followed on his trace,
+    They reached the Ghat but could not find
+      The lady of the noble face.
+    The birds were silent in the wood,
+      The lotus flowers exhaled a smell
+    Faint, over all the solitude,
+      A heron as a sentinel
+    Stood by the bank. They called--in vain,
+      No answer came from hill or fell,
+    The landscape lay in slumber's chain,
+      E'en Echo slept within her cell.
+
+    Broad sunshine, yet a hush profound!
+      They turned with saddened hearts to go;
+    Then from afar there came a sound
+      Of silver bells;--the priest said low,
+    "O Mother, Mother, deign to hear,
+      The worship-hour has rung; we wait
+    In meek humility and fear.
+      Must we return home desolate?
+    Oh come, as late thou cam'st unsought,
+      Or was it but an idle dream?
+    Give us some sign if it was not,
+      A word, a breath, or passing gleam."
+
+    Sudden from out the water sprung
+      A rounded arm, on which they saw
+    As high the lotus buds among
+      It rose, the bracelet white, with awe.
+    Then a wide ripple tost and swung
+      The blossoms on that liquid plain,
+    And lo! the arm so fair and young
+      Sank in the waters down again.
+    They bowed before the mystic Power,
+      And as they home returned in thought,
+    Each took from thence a lotus flower
+      In memory of the day and spot.
+
+    Years, centuries, have passed away,
+      And still before the temple shrine
+    Descendants of the pedler pay
+      Shell-bracelets of the old design
+    As annual tribute. Much they own
+      In lands and gold--but they confess
+    From that eventful day alone
+      Dawned on their industry--success.
+    Absurd may be the tale I tell,
+      Ill-suited to the marching times,
+    I loved the lips from which it fell,
+      So let it stand among my rhymes.
+
+
+
+
+BUTTOO
+
+
+    "Ho! Master of the wondrous art!
+    Instruct me in fair archery,
+    And buy for aye--a grateful heart
+    That will not grudge to give thy fee."
+    Thus spoke a lad with kindling eyes,
+    A hunter's lowborn son was he--
+    To Dronacharjya, great and wise,
+    Who sat with princes round his knee.
+
+    Up Time's fair stream far back--oh far,
+    The great wise teacher must be sought!
+    The Kurus had not yet in war
+    With the Pandava brethren fought.
+    In peace, at Dronacharjya's feet,
+    Magic and archery they learned,
+    A complex science, which we meet
+    No more, with ages past inurned.
+
+    "And who art thou," the teacher said,
+    "My science brave to learn so fain?
+    Which many kings who wear the thread
+    Have asked to learn of me in vain."
+    "My name is Buttoo," said the youth,
+    "A hunter's son, I know not Fear;"
+    The teacher answered, smiling smooth,
+    "Then know him from this time, my dear."
+
+    Unseen the magic arrow came,
+    Amidst the laughter and the scorn
+    Of royal youths--like lightning flame
+    Sudden and sharp. They blew the horn,
+    As down upon the ground he fell,
+    Not hurt, but made a jest and game;--
+    He rose--and waved a proud farewell,
+    But cheek and brow grew red with shame.
+
+    And lo--a single, single tear
+    Dropped from his eyelash as he past,
+    "My place I gather is not here;
+    No matter--what is rank or caste?
+    In us is honor, or disgrace,
+    Not out of us," 'twas thus he mused,
+    "The question is--not wealth or place,
+    But gifts well used, or gifts abused."
+
+    "And I shall do my best to gain
+    The science that man will not teach,
+    For life is as a shadow vain,
+    Until the utmost goal we reach
+    To which the soul points. I shall try
+    To realize my waking dream,
+    And what if I should chance to die?
+    None miss one bubble from a stream."
+
+    So thinking, on and on he went,
+    Till he attained the forest's verge,
+    The garish day was well-nigh spent,
+    Birds had already raised its dirge.
+    Oh what a scene! How sweet and calm!
+    It soothed at once his wounded pride,
+    And on his spirit shed a balm
+    That all its yearnings purified.
+
+    What glorious trees! The sombre saul
+    On which the eye delights to rest,
+    The betel-nut--a pillar tall,
+    With feathery branches for a crest,
+    The light-leaved tamarind spreading wide,
+    The pale faint-scented bitter neem,
+    The seemul, gorgeous as a bride,
+    With flowers that have the ruby's gleam,
+
+    The Indian fig's pavilion tent
+    In which whole armies might repose,
+    With here and there a little rent,
+    The sunset's beauty to disclose,
+    The bamboo boughs that sway and swing
+    'Neath bulbuls as the south wind blows,
+    The mango-tope, a close dark ring,
+    Home of the rooks and clamorous crows,
+
+    The champac, bok, and South-sea pine,
+    The nagessur with pendant flowers
+    Like ear-rings--and the forest vine
+    That clinging over all, embowers,
+    The sirish famed in Sanscrit song
+    Which rural maidens love to wear,
+    The peepul giant-like and strong,
+    The bramble with its matted hair,
+
+    All these, and thousands, thousands more,
+    With helmet red, or golden crown,
+    Or green tiara, rose before
+    The youth in evening's shadows brown.
+    He passed into the forest--there
+    New sights of wonder met his view,
+    A waving Pampas green and fair
+    All glistening with the evening dew.
+
+    How vivid was the breast-high grass!
+    Here waved in patches, forest corn--
+    Here intervened a deep morass--
+    Here arid spots of verdure shorn
+    Lay open--rock or barren sand--
+    And here again the trees arose
+    Thick clustering--a glorious band
+    Their tops still bright with sunset glows.--
+
+    Stirred in the breeze the crowding boughs,
+    And seemed to welcome him with signs,
+    Onwards and on--till Buttoo's brows
+    Are gemmed with pearls, and day declines.
+    Then in a grassy open space
+    He sits and leans against a tree,
+    To let the wind blow on his face
+    And look around him leisurely.
+
+    Herds, and still herds, of timid deer
+    Were feeding in the solitude,
+    They knew not man, and felt no fear,
+    And heeded not his neighborhood,
+    Some young ones with large eyes and sweet
+    Came close, and rubbed their foreheads smooth
+    Against his arms, and licked his feet,
+    As if they wished his cares to soothe.
+
+    "They touch me," he exclaimed with joy,
+    "They have no pride of caste like men,
+    They shrink not from the hunter-boy,
+    Should not my home be with them then?
+    Here in this forest let me dwell,
+    With these companions innocent,
+    And learn each science and each spell
+    All by myself in banishment.
+
+    A calm, calm life, and it shall be
+    Its own exceeding great reward!
+    No thoughts to vex in all I see,
+    No jeers to bear or disregard;--
+    All creatures and inanimate things
+    Shall be my tutors; I shall learn
+    From beast, and fish, and bird with wings,
+    And rock, and stream, and tree, and fern.
+
+    With this resolve, he soon began
+    To build a hut, of reeds and leaves,
+    And when that needful work was done
+    He gathered in his store, the sheaves
+    Of forest corn, and all the fruit,
+    Date, plum, guava, he could find,
+    And every pleasant nut and root
+    By Providence for man designed,
+
+    A statue next of earth he made,
+    An image of the teacher wise,
+    So deft he laid, the light and shade,
+    On figure, forehead, face and eyes,
+    That any one who chanced to view
+    That image tall might soothly swear,
+    If he great Dronacharjya knew,
+    The teacher in his flesh was there.
+
+    Then at the statue's feet he placed
+    A bow, and arrows tipped with steel,
+    With wild-flower garlands interlaced,
+    And hailed the figure in his zeal
+    As Master, and his head he bowed,
+    A pupil reverent from that hour
+    Of one who late had disallowed
+    The claim, in pride of place and power.
+
+    By strained sense, by constant prayer,
+    By steadfastness of heart and will,
+    By courage to confront and dare,
+    All obstacles he conquered still;
+    A conscience clear--a ready hand,
+    Joined to a meek humility,
+    Success must everywhere command,
+    How could he fail who had all three!
+
+    And now, by tests assured, he knows
+    His own God-gifted wondrous might,
+    Nothing to any man he owes,
+    Unaided he has won the fight;
+    Equal to gods themselves--above
+    Wishmo and Drona--for his worth
+    His name, he feels, shall be with love
+    Reckoned with great names of the earth.
+
+    Yet lacks he not, in reverence
+    To Dronacharjya, who declined
+    To teach him--nay, with e'en offence
+    That well might wound a noble mind,
+    Drove him away;--for in his heart
+    Meek, placable, and ever kind,
+    Resentment had not any part,
+    And Malice never was enshrined.
+
+    One evening, on his work intent,
+    Alone he practised Archery,
+    When lo! the bow proved false and sent
+    The arrow from its mark awry;
+    Again he tried--and failed again;
+    Why was it? Hark!--A wild dog's bark!
+    An evil omen:--it was plain
+    Some evil on his path hung dark!
+
+    Thus many times he tried and failed,
+    And still that lean, persistent dog
+    At distance, like some spirit wailed,
+    Safe in the cover of a fog.
+    His nerves unstrung, with many a shout
+    He strove to frighten it away,
+    It would not go--but roamed about,
+    Howling, as wolves howl for their prey.
+
+    Worried and almost in a rage,
+    One magic shaft at last he sent,
+    A sample of his science sage,
+    To quiet but the noises meant.
+    Unerring to its goal it flew,
+    No death ensued, no blood was dropped;
+    But by the hush the young man knew
+    At last that howling noise had stopped.
+
+    It happened on this very day
+    That the Pandava princes came
+    With all the Kuru princes gay
+    To beat the woods and hunt the game.
+    Parted from others in the chase,
+    Arjuna brave the wild dog found--
+    Stuck still the shaft--but not a trace
+    Of hurt, though tongue and lip were bound.
+
+    "Wonder of wonders! Didst not thou
+    O Dronacharjya, promise me
+    Thy crown in time should deck my brow
+    And I be first in archery?
+    Lo! here, some other thou hast taught
+    A magic spell--to all unknown;
+    Who has in secret from thee bought
+    The knowledge, in this arrow shown!"
+
+    Indignant thus Arjuna spake
+    To his great Master when they met--
+    "My word, my honor, is at stake,
+    Judge not, Arjuna, judge not yet.
+    Come, let us see the dog "--and straight
+    They followed up the creature's trace.
+    They found it, in the self-same state,
+    Dumb, yet unhurt--near Buttoo's place.
+
+    A hut--_a_ statue--and a youth
+    In the dim forest--what mean these?
+    They gazed in wonder, for in sooth
+    The thing seemed full of mysteries.
+    "Now who art thou that dar'st to raise
+    Mine image in the wilderness?
+    Is it for worship and for praise?
+    What is thine object? speak, confess,"
+
+    "Oh Master, unto thee I came
+    To learn thy science. Name or pelf
+    I had not, so was driven with shame,
+    And here I learn all by myself.
+    But still as Master thee revere,
+    For who so great in archery!
+    Lo, all my inspiration here,
+    And all my knowledge is from thee."
+
+    "If I am Master, now thou hast
+    Finished thy course, give me my due.
+    Let all the past, be dead and past,
+    Henceforth be ties between us new."
+    "All that I have, O Master mine,
+    All I shall conquer by my skill,
+    Gladly shall I to thee resign,
+    Let me but know thy gracious will,"
+
+    "Is it a promise?" "Yea, I swear
+    So long as I have breath and life
+    To give thee all thou wilt," "Beware!
+    Rash promise ever ends in strife."
+    "Thou art my Master--ask! oh ask!
+    From thee my inspiration came,
+    Thou canst not set too hard a task,
+    Nor aught refuse I, free from blame."
+
+    "If it be so--Arjuna hear!"
+    Arjuna and the youth were dumb,
+    "For thy sake, loud I ask and clear,
+    Give me, O youth, thy right-hand thumb.
+    I promised in my faithfulness
+    No equal ever shall there be
+    To thee, Arjuna--and I press
+    For this sad recompense--for thee."
+
+    Glanced the sharp knife one moment high,
+    The severed thumb was on the sod,
+    There was no tear in Buttoo's eye,
+    He left the matter with his God.
+    "For this"--said Dronacharjya--"Fame
+    Shall sound thy praise from sea to sea,
+    And men shall ever link thy name
+    With Self-help, Truth, and Modesty."
+
+
+
+
+SINDHU
+
+PART I
+
+
+    Deep in the forest shades there dwelt
+      A _Muni_ and his wife,
+    Blind, gray-haired, weak, they hourly felt
+      Their slender hold on life.
+
+    No friends had they, no help or stay,
+      Except an only boy,
+    A bright-eyed child, his laughter gay,
+      Their leaf-hut filled with joy.
+
+    Attentive, duteous, loving, kind,
+      Thoughtful, sedate, and calm,
+    He waited on his parents blind,
+      Whose days were like a psalm.
+
+    He roamed the woods for luscious fruits,
+      He brought them water pure,
+    He cooked their simple mess of roots,
+      Content to live obscure.
+
+    To fretful questions, answers mild
+      He meekly ever gave,
+    If they reproved, he only smiled,
+      He loved to be their slave.
+
+    Not that to him they were austere,
+      But age is peevish still,
+    Dear to their hearts he was--so dear,
+      That none his place might fill.
+    They called him Sindhu, and his name
+      Was ever on their tongue,
+    And he, nor cared for wealth nor fame,
+      Who dwelt his own among.
+
+    A belt of _Bela_-trees hemmed round
+      The cottage small and rude,
+    If peace on earth was ever found
+      'Twas in that solitude.
+
+
+
+
+PART II
+
+
+    Great Dasarath, the King of Oudh,
+      Whom all men love and fear,
+    With elephants and horses proud
+      Went forth to hunt the deer.
+
+    O gallant was the long array!
+      Pennons and plumes were seen,
+    And swords that mirrored back the day,
+      And spears and axes keen.
+
+    Rang trump, and conch, and piercing fife,
+      Woke Echo from her bed!
+    The solemn woods with sounds were rife
+      As on the pageant sped.
+
+    Hundreds, nay thousands, on they went!
+      The wild beasts fled away!
+    Deer ran in herds, and wild boars spent
+      Became an easy prey.
+
+    Whirring the peacocks from the brake
+      With Argus wings arose,
+    Wild swans abandoned pool and lake
+      For climes beyond the snows.
+
+    From tree to tree the monkeys sprung,
+      Unharmed and unpursued,
+    As louder still the trumpets rung
+      And startled all the wood.
+
+    The porcupines and such small game
+      Unnoted fled at will,
+    The weasel only caught to tame
+      From fissures in the hill.
+
+    Slunk light the tiger from the bank,
+      But sudden turned to bay!
+    When he beheld the serried rank
+      That barred his tangled way.
+    Uprooting fig-trees on their path,
+      And trampling shrubs and flowers,
+    Wild elephants, in fear and wrath,
+      Burst through, like moving towers.
+
+    Lowering their horns in crescents grim
+      Whene'er they turned about,
+    Retreated into coverts dim
+      The bisons' fiercer rout.
+
+    And in this mimic game of war
+      In bands dispersed and passed
+    The royal train--some near, some far,
+      As day closed in at last.
+
+    Where was the king? He left his friends
+      At mid-day, it was known,
+    And now that evening fast descends
+      Where was he? All alone.
+
+    Curving, the river formed a lake,
+      Upon whose bank he stood, I
+    No noise the silence there to break,
+      Or mar the solitude.
+
+    Upon the glassy surface fell
+      The last beams of the day,
+    Like fiery darts, that lengthening swell,
+      As breezes wake and play.
+
+    Osiers and willows on the edge
+      And purple buds and red,
+    Leant down--and 'mid the pale green sedge
+      The lotus raised its head.
+
+    And softly, softly, hour by hour
+      Light faded, and a veil
+    Fell over tree, and wave, and flower,
+      On came the twilight pale.
+
+    Deeper and deeper grew the shades,
+      Stars glimmered in the sky,
+    The nightingale along the glades
+      Raised her preluding cry.
+    What is that momentary flash?
+      A gleam of silver scales
+    Reveals the _Mahseer_;--then a splash,
+      And calm again prevails.
+
+    As darkness settled like a pall
+      The eye would pierce in vain,
+    The fireflies gemmed the bushes all,
+      Like fiery drops of rain.
+
+    Pleased with the scene--and knowing not
+      Which way, alas! to go,
+    The monarch lingered on the spot--
+      The lake spread bright below.
+
+    He lingered, when--oh hark! oh hark
+      What sound salutes his ear!
+    A roebuck drinking in the dark,
+      Not hunted, nor in fear.
+
+    Straight to the stretch his bow he drew,
+      That bow ne'er missed its aim,
+    Whizzing the deadly arrow flew,
+      Ear-guided, on the game!
+
+    Ah me! What means this?--Hark, a cry,
+      A feeble human wail,
+    "Oh God!" it said--"I die--I die,
+      Who'll carry home the pail?"
+
+    Startled, the monarch forward ran,
+      And then there met his view
+    A sight to freeze in any man
+      The warm blood coursing true.
+
+    A child lay dying on the grass,
+      A pitcher by his side,
+    Poor Sindhu was the child, alas!
+      His parents' stay and pride.
+
+    His bow and quiver down to fling,
+      And lift the wounded boy,
+    A moment's work was with the king.
+      Not dead--that was a joy!
+    He placed the child's head on his lap,
+      And 'ranged the blinding hair,
+    The blood welled fearful from the gap
+      On neck and bosom fair.
+
+    He dashed cold water on the face,
+      He chafed the hands, with sighs,
+    Till sense revived, and he could trace
+      Expression in the eyes.
+
+    Then mingled with his pity, fear--
+      In all this universe
+    What is so dreadful as to hear
+      A Brahman's dying curse!
+
+    So thought the king, and on his brow
+      The beads of anguish spread,
+    And Sindhu, fully conscious now,
+      The anguish plainly read.
+
+    "What dost thou fear, O mighty king?
+      For sure a king thou art!
+    Why should thy bosom anguish wring?
+      No crime was in thine heart!
+
+    Unwittingly the deed was done;
+      It is my destiny,
+    O fear not thou, but pity one
+      Whose fate is thus to die.
+
+    No curses, no!--I bear no grudge,
+      Not thou my blood hast spilt,
+    Lo! here before the unseen Judge,
+      Thee I absolve from guilt.
+
+    The iron, red-hot as it burns,
+      Burns those that touch it too,
+    Not such my nature--for it spurns,
+      Thank God, the like to do.
+
+    Because I suffer, should I give
+      Thee, king, a needless pain?
+    Ah, no! I die, but may'st thou live,
+      And cleansed from every stain!"
+    Struck with these words, and doubly grieved
+      At what his hands had done,
+    The monarch wept, as weeps bereaved
+      A man his only son.
+
+    "Nay, weep not so," resumed the child,
+      "But rather let me say
+    My own sad story, sin-defiled,
+      And why I die to-day!
+
+    Picking a living in our sheaves,
+      And happy in their loves,
+    Near, 'mid a peepul's quivering leaves,
+      There lived a pair of doves.
+
+    Never were they two separate,
+      And lo, in idle mood,
+    I took a sling and ball, elate
+      In wicked sport and rude--
+
+    And killed one bird--it was the male,
+      Oh cruel deed and base!
+    The female gave a plaintive wail
+      And looked me in the face!
+
+    The wail and sad reproachful look
+      In plain words seemed to say,
+    A widowed life I cannot brook,
+      The forfeit thou must pay.
+
+    What was my darling's crime that thou
+      Him wantonly shouldst kill?
+    The curse of blood is on thee now,
+      Blood calls for red blood still.
+
+    And so I die--a bloody death--
+      But not for this I mourn,
+    To feel the world pass with my breath
+      I gladly could have borne,
+
+    But for my parents, who are blind,
+      And have no other stay--
+    This, this, weighs sore upon my mind,
+      And fills me with dismay.
+
+    Upon the eleventh day of the moon
+      They keep a rigorous fast,
+    All yesterday they fasted; soon
+      For water and repast
+
+    They shall upon me feebly call!
+      Ah, must they call in vain?
+    Bear thou the pitcher, friend--'tis all
+      I ask--down that steep lane."
+
+    He pointed--ceased--then sudden died!
+      The king took up the corpse,
+    And with the pitcher slowly hied,
+      Attended by Remorse,
+
+    Down the steep lane--unto the hut
+      Girt round with _Bela_-trees;
+    Gleamed far a light--the door not shut
+      Was open to the breeze.
+
+
+
+
+PART III
+
+
+    "Oh why does not our child return?
+      Too long he surely stays."--
+    Thus to the _Muni_, blind and stern,
+      His partner gently says.
+
+    "For fruits and water when he goes
+      He never stays so long,
+    Oh can it be, beset by foes,
+      He suffers cruel wrong?
+
+    Some distance he has gone, I fear,
+      A more circuitous round--
+    Yet why should he? The fruits are near,
+      The river near our bound.
+
+    I die of thirst--it matters not
+      If Sindhu be but safe,
+    What if he leave us, and this spot,
+      Poor birds in cages chafe.
+
+    Peevish and fretful oft we are--
+      Ah, no--that cannot be:
+    Of our blind eyes he is the star,
+      Without him, what were we?
+
+    Too much he loves us to forsake,
+      But something ominous,
+    Here in my heart, a dreadful ache,
+      Says, he is gone from us.
+
+    Why do my bowels for him yearn,
+      What ill has crossed his path?
+    Blind, helpless, whither shall we turn,
+      Or how avert the wrath?
+
+    Lord of my soul--what means my pain?
+      This horrid terror--like
+    Some cloud that hides a hurricane;
+      Hang not, O lightning--strike!"
+
+    Thus while she spake, the king drew near
+      With haggard look and wild,
+    Weighed down with grief, and pale with fear,
+      Bearing the lifeless child.
+
+    Rustled the dry leaves 'neath his foot,
+      And made an eerie sound,
+    A neighboring owl began to hoot,
+      All else was still around.
+
+    At the first rustle of the leaves
+      The _Muni_ answered clear,
+    "Lo, here he is--oh wherefore grieves
+      Thy soul, my partner dear?"
+
+    The words distinct, the monarch heard,
+      He could no further go,
+    His nature to its depths was stirred,
+      He stopped in speechless woe.
+
+    No steps advanced--the sudden pause
+      Attention quickly drew,
+    Rolled sightless orbs to learn the cause,
+      But, hark!--the steps renew.
+
+    "Where art thou, darling--why so long
+      Hast thou delayed to-night?
+    We die of thirst--we are not strong,
+      This fasting kills outright.
+
+    Speak to us, dear one--only speak,
+      And calm our idle fears,
+    Where hast thou been, and what to seek?
+      Have pity on these tears."
+
+    With head bent low the monarch heard,
+      Then came a cruel throb
+    That tore his heart--still not a word,
+      Only a stifled sob!
+
+    "It is not Sindhu--who art thou?
+      And where is Sindhu gone?
+    There's blood upon thy hands--avow!"
+      "There is."--"Speak on, speak on,"
+
+    The dead child in their arms he placed,
+      And briefly told his tale,
+    The parents their dead child embraced,
+      And kissed his forehead pale.
+
+    "Our hearts are broken. Come, dear wife,
+      On earth no more we dwell;
+    Now welcome Death, and farewell Life,
+      And thou, O king, farewell!
+
+    We do not curse thee, God forbid
+      But to my inner eye
+    The future is no longer hid,
+      Thou too shalt like us die.
+
+    Die--for a son's untimely loss!
+      Die--with a broken heart!
+    Now help us to our bed of moss,
+      And let us both depart."
+
+    Upon the moss he laid them down,
+      And watched beside the bed;
+    Death gently came and placed a crown
+      Upon each reverend head.
+
+    Where the Sarayu's waves dash free
+      Against a rocky bank,
+    The monarch had the corpses three
+      Conveyed by men of rank;
+
+    There honored he with royal pomp
+      Their funeral obsequies--
+    Incense and sandal, drum and tromp.
+      And solemn sacrifice.
+
+    What is the sequel of the tale?
+      How died the king?--Oh man,
+    A prophet's words can never fail--
+      Go, read the Ramayan.
+
+
+
+
+MISCELLANEOUS POEMS
+
+
+NEAR HASTINGS
+
+
+    Near Hastings, on the shingle-beach,
+      We loitered at the time
+    When ripens on the wall the peach,
+      The autumn's lovely prime.
+    Far off--the sea and sky seemed blent,
+      The day was wholly done,
+    The distant town its murmurs sent,
+      Strangers--we were alone.
+
+    We wandered slow; sick, weary, faint,
+      Then one of us sat down,
+    No nature hers, to make complaint;--
+      The shadows deepened brown.
+    A lady past--she was not young,
+      But oh! her gentle face
+    No painter-poet ever sung,
+      Or saw such saintlike grace.
+
+    She passed us--then she came again,
+      Observing at a glance
+    That we were strangers; one, in pain--
+      Then asked--Were we from France?
+    We talked awhile--some roses red
+      That seemed as wet with tears,
+    She gave my sister, and she said,
+      God bless you both, my dears!"
+
+    Sweet were the roses--sweet and full,
+      And large as lotus flowers
+    That in our own wide tanks we cull
+      To deck our Indian bowers.
+    But sweeter was the love that gave
+      Those flowers to one unknown,
+    I think that He who came to save
+      The gift a debt will own.
+
+    The lady's name I do not know,
+      Her face no more may see,
+    But yet, oh yet I love her so!
+      Blest, happy, may she be!
+    Her memory will not depart,
+      Though grief my years should shade,
+    Still bloom her roses in my heart!
+      And they shall never fade!
+
+
+FRANCE
+
+_1870_
+
+    Not dead--oh no--she cannot die!
+      Only a swoon, from loss of blood!
+    Levite England passes her by,
+    Help, Samaritan! None is nigh;
+      Who shall staunch me this sanguine flood?
+
+    'Range the brown hair, it blinds her eyne,
+      Dash cold water over her face!
+    Drowned in her blood, she makes no sign,
+    Give her a draught of generous wine.
+      None heed, none hear, to do this grace.
+
+    Head of the human column, thus
+      Ever in swoon wilt thou remain?
+    Thought, Freedom, Truth, quenched ominous
+    Whence then shall Hope arise for us,
+      Plunged in the darkness all again.
+
+    No, she stirs!--There's a fire in her glance,
+      Ware, oh ware of that broken sword!
+    What, dare ye for an hour's mischance,
+    Gather around her, jeering France,
+      Attila's own exultant horde?
+
+    Lo, she stands up--stands up e'en now,
+      Strong once more for the battle-fray,
+    Gleams bright the star, that from her brow
+    Lightens the world. Bow, nations, bow,
+      Let her again lead on the way!
+
+
+THE TREE OF LIFE
+
+    Broad daylight, with a sense of weariness!
+    Mine eyes were closed, but I was not asleep,
+    My hand was in my father's, and I felt
+    His presence near me. Thus we often passed
+    In silence, hour by hour. What was the need
+    Of interchanging words when every thought
+    That in our hearts arose, was known to each,
+    And every pulse kept time? Suddenly there shone
+    A strange light, and the scene as sudden changed.
+    I was awake:--It was an open plain
+    Illimitable--stretching, stretching--oh, so far!
+    And o'er it that strange light--a glorious light
+    Like that the stars shed over fields of snow
+    In a clear, cloudless, frosty winter night,
+    Only intenser in its brilliance calm.
+    And in the midst of that vast plain, I saw,
+    For I was wide awake--it was no dream,
+    A tree with spreading branches and with leaves
+    Of divers kinds--dead silver and live gold,
+    Shimmering in radiance that no words may tell!
+    Beside the tree an Angel stood; he plucked
+    A few small sprays, and bound them round my head.
+    Oh, the delicious touch of those strange leaves!
+    No longer throbbed my brows, no more I felt
+    The fever in my limbs--"And oh," I cried,
+    "Bind too my father's forehead with these leaves."
+    One leaf the Angel took and therewith touched
+    His forehead, and then gently whispered "Nay!"
+    Never, oh never had I seen a face
+    More beautiful than that Angel's, or more full
+    Of holy pity and of love divine.
+    Wondering I looked awhile--then, all at once
+    Opened my tear-dimmed eyes--When lo! the light
+    Was gone--the light as of the stars when snow
+    Lies deep upon the ground. No more, no more,
+    Was seen the Angel's face. I only found
+    My father watching patient by my bed,
+    And holding in his own, close-prest, my hand.
+
+
+MADAME THÉRÈSE
+
+_Written on the fly-leaf of Erckmann-Chatrian's novel, entitled, "Madame
+Thérèse_."
+
+    Wavered the foremost soldiers--then fell back.
+    Fallen was their leader, and loomed right before
+    The sullen Prussian cannon, grim and black,
+    With lighted matches waving. Now, once more,
+    Patriots and veterans!--Ah! Tis in vain!
+    Back they recoil, though bravest of the brave;
+    No human troops may stand that murderous rain;
+    But who is this--that rushes to a grave?
+
+    It is a woman--slender, tall, and brown!
+    She snatches up the standard as it falls--
+    In her hot haste tumbles her dark hair down,
+    And to the drummer-boy aloud she calls
+    To beat the charge; then forwards on the _pont_
+    They dash together;--who could bear to see
+    A woman and a child, thus Death confront,
+    Nor burn to follow them to victory?
+
+    I read the story and my heart beats fast!
+    Well might all Europe quail before thee, France,
+    Battling against oppression! Years have passed,
+    Yet of that time men speak with moistened glance.
+    _Va-nu-pieds!_ When rose high your Marseillaise
+    Man knew his rights to earth's remotest bound,
+    And tyrants trembled. Yours alone the praise!
+    Ah, had a Washington but then been found!
+
+
+
+
+SONNET
+
+
+    A sea of foliage girds our garden round,
+      But not a sea of dull unvaried green,
+      Sharp contrasts of all colors here are seen;
+    The light-green graceful tamarinds abound
+    Amid the mango clumps of green profound,
+      And palms arise, like pillars gray, between;
+      And o'er the quiet pools the seemuls lean,
+    Red--red, and startling like a trumpet's sound.
+    But nothing can be lovelier than the ranges
+      Of bamboos to the eastward, when the moon
+    Looks through their gaps, and the white lotus changes
+      Into a cup of silver. One might swoon
+        Drunken with beauty then, or gaze and gaze
+        On a primeval Eden, in amaze.
+
+
+
+
+SONNET
+
+
+    Love came to Flora asking for a flower
+      That would of flowers be undisputed queen,
+      The lily and the rose, long, long had been
+    Rivals for that high honor. Bards of power
+    Had sung their claims. "The rose can never tower
+      Like the pale lily with her Juno mien"--
+      "But is the lily lovelier?" Thus between
+    Flower-factions rang the strife in Psyche's bower.
+    "Give me a flower delicious as the rose
+      And stately as the lily in her pride"--
+      "But of what color?"--"Rose-red," Love first chose,
+      Then prayed--"No, lily-white--or, both provide;"
+      And Flora gave the lotus, "rose-red" dyed,
+    And "lily-white"--the queenliest flower that blows.
+
+
+
+
+OUR CASUARINA-TREE
+
+    Like a huge Python, winding round and round
+      The rugged trunk, indented deep with scars
+      Up to its very summit near the stars,
+    A creeper climbs, in whose embraces bound
+      No other tree could live. But gallantly
+    The giant wears the scarf, and flowers are hung
+    In crimson clusters all the boughs among,
+      Whereon all day are gathered bird and bee;
+    And oft at nights the garden overflows
+    With one sweet song that seems to have no close,
+    Sung darkling from our tree, while men repose,
+
+    When first my casement is wide open thrown
+      At dawn, my eyes delighted on it rest;
+      Sometimes, and most in winter--on its crest
+    A gray baboon sits statue-like alone
+      Watching the sunrise; while on lower boughs
+    His puny offspring leap about and play;
+    And far and near kokilas hail the day;
+      And to their pastures wend our sleepy cows;
+    And in the shadow, on the broad tank cast
+    By that hoar tree, so beautiful and vast,
+    The water-lilies spring, like snow enmassed.
+
+    But not because of its magnificence
+      Dear is the Casuarina to my soul:
+      Beneath it we have played; though years may roll,
+    O sweet companions, loved with love intense,
+      For your sakes, shall the tree be ever dear!
+    Blent with your images, it shall arise
+    In memory, till the hot tears blind mine eyes!
+      What is that dirge-like murmur that I hear
+    Like the sea breaking on a shingle-beach?
+    It is the tree's lament, an eerie speech,
+    That haply to the unknown land may reach.
+
+    Unknown, yet well-known to the eye of faith!
+      Ah, I have heard that wail far, far away
+      In distant lands, by many a sheltered bay,
+    When slumbered in his cave the water-wraith
+      And the waves gently kissed the classic shore
+    Of France or Italy, beneath the moon,
+    When earth lay tranced in a dreamless swoon:
+      And every time the music rose--before
+    Mine inner vision rose a form sublime,
+    Thy form, O Tree, as in my happy prime
+    I saw thee, in my own loved native clime.
+
+    Therefore I fain would consecrate a lay
+      Unto thy honor, Tree, beloved of those
+      Who now in blessed sleep, for aye, repose,
+    Dearer than life to me, alas! were they!
+      May'st thou be numbered when my days are done
+    With deathless trees--like those in Borrowdale,
+    Under whose awful branches lingered pale
+      "Fear, trembling Hope, and Death, the skeleton,
+    And Time, the shadow;" and though weak the verse
+    That would thy beauty fain, oh fain rehearse,
+    May Love defend thee from Oblivion's curse.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Hindu Literature, by Epiphanius Wilson
+
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diff --git a/old/13268-0.zip b/old/13268-0.zip
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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of Hindu Literature, by Epiphanius Wilson
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: Hindu Literature
+
+Author: Epiphanius Wilson
+
+Release Date: August 24, 2004 [EBook #13268]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK HINDU LITERATURE ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Juliet Sutherland, Susan Skinner and the Online
+Distributed Proofreading Team.
+
+
+
+
+
+HINDU LITERATURE
+
+COMPRISING
+
+THE BOOK OF GOOD COUNSELS, NALA AND DAMAYANTI, THE R�M�YANA AND
+SAKOONTAL�
+
+WITH CRITICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES BY
+
+EPIPHANIUS WILSON, A.M.
+
+REVISED EDITION
+
+NEW YORK
+
+P.F. COLLIER & SON
+
+COPYRIGHT, 1900
+
+BY THE COLONIAL PRESS
+
+CONTENTS
+
+THE BOOK OF GOOD COUNSELS
+
+Translator's Preface
+
+Introduction
+
+THE WINNING OF FRIENDS
+  The Story of the Jackal, Deer, and Crow
+  The Story of the Vulture, the Cat, and the Birds
+  The Story of the Dead Game and the Jackal
+  The Prince and the Wife of the Merchant's Son
+  The Story of the Old Jackal and the Elephant
+
+THE PARTING OF FRIENDS
+  The Story of the Lion, the Jackals, and the Bull
+  The Story of the Monkey and the Wedge
+  The Story of the Washerman's Jackass
+  The Story of the Cat who Served the Lion
+  The Story of the Terrible Bell
+  The Story of the Prince and the Procuress
+  The Story of the Black Snake and the Golden Chain
+  The Story of the Lion and the Old Hare
+  The Story of the Wagtail and the Sea
+
+WAR
+  The Battle of the Swans and Peacocks
+  The Story of the Weaver-Birds and the Monkeys
+  The Story of the Old Hare and the Elephants
+  The Story of the Heron and the Crow
+  The Story of the Appeased Wheelwright
+  The Story of the Dyed Jackal
+  The Story of the Faithful Rajpoot
+
+PEACE
+  The Treaty Between the Peacocks and the Swans
+  The Story of the Tortoise and the Geese
+  The Story of Fate and the Three Fishes
+  The Story of the Unabashed Wife
+  The Story of the Herons and the Mongoose
+  The Story of the Recluse and the Mouse
+  The Story of the Crane and the Crab
+  The Story of the Brahman and the Pans
+  The Duel of the Giants
+  The Story of the Brahman and the Goat
+  The Story of the Camel, the Lion, and His Court
+  The Story of the Frogs and the Old Serpent
+
+NALA AND DAMAYANTI
+
+Introduction
+NALA AND DAMAYANTI.--
+  Part I
+  Part II
+
+SELECTIONS FROM THE R�M�YANA
+
+Introduction
+Invocation
+BOOK I.--
+    CANTO
+     I.--N�rad
+         [_Cantos II., III., IV., and V. are omitted_]
+    VI.--The King
+   VII.--The Ministers
+  VIII.--Sumantra's Speech
+    IX.--Rishyasring
+     X.--Rishyasring Invited
+    XI.--The Sacrifice Decreed
+   XII.--The Sacrifice Begun
+  XIII.--The Sacrifice Finished
+   XIV.--R�van Doomed
+    XV.--The Nectar
+   XVI.--The V�nars
+  XVII.--Rishyasring's Return
+ XVIII.--Rishyasring's Departure
+   XIX.--The Birth of the Princes
+    XX.--Visv�mitra's Visit
+   XXI.--Visv�mitra's Speech
+  XXII.--Dasaratha's Speech
+ XXIII.--Vasishtha's Speech
+  XXIV.--The Spells
+   XXV.--The Hermitage of Love
+  XXVI.--The Forest of T�dak�
+ XXVII.--The Birth of T�dak�
+XXVIII.--The Death of T�dak�
+  XXIX.--The Celestial Arms
+   XXX.--The Mysterious Powers
+  XXXI.--The Perfect Hermitage
+ XXXII.--Visv�mitra's Sacrifice
+XXXIII.--The Sone
+ XXXIV.--Brahmadatta
+  XXXV.--Visv�mitra's Lineage
+ XXXVI.--The Birth of Gang�
+      [_Cantos XXXVII. and XXXVIII. are omitted_]
+ XXXIX.--The Son of Sagar
+    XL.--The Cleaving of the Earth
+   XLI.--Kapil
+  XLII.--Sagar's Sacrifice
+ XLIII.--Bhag�rath
+
+SAKOONTAL�
+
+Introduction
+Dramatis Personae
+Rules for Pronunciation of Proper Names
+Prologue
+Act First
+Act Second
+Prelude to Act Third
+Act Third
+Prelude to Act Fourth
+Act Fourth
+Act Fifth
+Prelude to Act Sixth
+Act Sixth
+Act Seventh
+
+POEMS BY TORU DUTT
+
+Introduction
+BALLADS OF HINDOSTAN.--
+  Jogadhya Uma
+  Buttoo
+  Sindhu.--
+    Part I
+    Part II
+    Part III
+MISCELLANEOUS POEMS.--
+  Near Hastings
+  France
+  The Tree of Life
+  Madame Th�r�se
+  Sonnet
+  Sonnet
+  Our Casuarina-Tree
+
+
+
+
+THE BOOK OF GOOD COUNSELS
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+SELECTED FROM
+
+THE HITOPADESA
+
+[_Translated from the Sanscrit by Sir Edwin Arnold_]
+
+TRANSLATOR'S PREFACE
+
+A story-book from the Sanscrit at least possesses the minor merit of
+novelty. The "perfect language" has been hitherto regarded as the
+province of scholars, and few of these even have found time or taste to
+search its treasures. And yet among them is the key to the heart of
+modern India--as well as the splendid record of her ancient Gods and
+glories. The hope of Hindostan lies in the intelligent interest of
+England. Whatever avails to dissipate misconceptions between them, and
+to enlarge their intimacy, is a gain to both peoples; and to this end
+the present volume aspires, in an humble degree, to contribute.
+
+The "Hitopadesa" is a work of high antiquity, and extended popularity.
+The prose is doubtless as old as our own era; but the intercalated
+verses and proverbs compose a selection from writings of an age
+extremely remote. The "Mahabharata" and the textual Veds are of those
+quoted; to the first of which Professor M. Williams (in his admirable
+edition of the "Nala," 1860) assigns a date of 350 B.C., while he claims
+for the "Rig-Veda" an antiquity as high as B.C. 1300. The "Hitopadesa"
+may thus be fairly styled "The Father of all Fables"; for from its
+numerous translations have come �sop and Pilpay, and in later days
+Reineke Fuchs. Originally compiled in Sanscrit, it was rendered, by
+order of Nushirav�n, in the sixth century, A.D., into Persic. From the
+Persic it passed, A.D. 850, into the Arabic, and thence into Hebrew and
+Greek. In its own land it obtained as wide a circulation. The Emperor
+Acbar, impressed with the wisdom of its maxims and the ingenuity of its
+apologues, commended the work of translating it to his own Vizir, Abdul
+Fazel. That minister accordingly put the book into a familiar style, and
+published it with explanations, under the title of the "Criterion of
+Wisdom." The Emperor had also suggested the abridgment of the long
+series of shlokes which here and there interrupt the narrative, and the
+Vizir found this advice sound, and followed it, like the present
+Translator. To this day, in India, the "Hitopadesa," under other names
+(as the "Anv�ri Suhaili"[1]), retains the delighted attention of young
+and old, and has some representative in all the Indian vernaculars. A
+work so well esteemed in the East cannot be unwelcome to Western
+readers, who receive it here, a condensed but faithful transcript of
+sense and manner.
+
+As often as an Oriental allusion, or a name in Hindoo mythology, seemed
+to ask some explanation for the English reader, notes have been
+appended, bearing reference to the page. In their compilation, and
+generally, acknowledgment is due to Professor Johnson's excellent
+version and edition of the "Hitopadesa," and to Mr. Muir's "Sanscrit
+Texts."
+
+A residence in India, and close intercourse with the Hindoos, have given
+the author a lively desire to subserve their advancement. No one listens
+now to the precipitate ignorance which would set aside as "heathenish"
+the high civilization of this great race; but justice is not yet done to
+their past development and present capacities. If the wit, the morality,
+and the philosophy of these "beasts of India" (so faithfully rendered by
+Mr. Harrison Weir) surprise any vigorous mind into further exploration
+of her literature, and deeper sense of our responsibility in her
+government, the author will be repaid.
+
+EDWIN ARNOLD.
+
+[1] "The Lights of Canopus," a Persian paraphrase; as the "Khirad
+Afroz," "the lamp of the Understanding," is in Hindustani.
+
+
+
+
+THE BOOK OF GOOD COUNSELS
+
+INTRODUCTION
+
+
+HONOR TO GUNESH, GOD OF WISDOM
+
+    This book of Counsel read, and you shall see,
+    Fair speech and Sanscrit lore, and Policy.
+
+ON the banks of the holy river Ganges there stood a city named
+Pataliputra. The King of it was a good King and a virtuous, and his name
+was Sudarsana. It chanced one day that he overheard a certain person
+reciting these verses--
+
+    "Wise men, holding wisdom highest, scorn delights, as false as fair,
+    Daily live they as Death's fingers twined already in their hair.
+
+    Truly, richer than all riches, better than the best of gain,
+    Wisdom is, unbought, secure--once won, none loseth her again.
+
+    Bringing dark things into daylight, solving doubts that vex the mind,
+    Like an open eye is Wisdom--he that hath her not is blind."
+
+Hearing these the King became disquieted, knowing that his own sons were
+gaining no wisdom, nor reading the Sacred Writings,[2] but altogether
+going in the wrong way; and he repeated this verse to himself--
+
+    "Childless art thou? dead thy children? leaving thee to want and dool?
+    Less thy misery than his is, who is father to a fool."
+
+And again this--
+
+    "One wise son makes glad his father, forty fools avail him not:--
+    One moon silvers all that darkness which the silly stars did dot."
+
+"And it has been said," reflected he--
+
+    "Ease and health, obeisant children, wisdom, and a fair-voiced wife--
+    Thus, great King! are counted up the five felicities of life.
+    For the son the sire is honored; though the bow-cane bendeth true,
+    Let the strained string crack in using, and what service shall it do?"
+
+"Nevertheless," mused the King, "I know it is urged that human efforts
+are useless: as, for instance--
+
+    "That which will not be, will not be--and what is to be, will be:--
+    Why not drink this easy physic, antidote of misery?"
+
+"But then that comes from idleness, with people who will not do what
+they should do. Rather,
+
+    "Nay! and faint not, idly sighing, 'Destiny is mightiest,'
+    Sesamum holds oil in plenty, but it yieldeth none unpressed.
+    Ah! it is the Coward's babble, 'Fortune taketh, Fortune gave;'
+    Fortune! rate her like a master, and she serves thee like a slave."
+
+"For indeed,
+
+    "Twofold is the life we live in--Fate and Will together run:--
+    Two wheels bear life's chariot onward--will it move on only one?"
+
+"And
+
+    "Look! the clay dries into iron, but the potter moulds the clay:--
+    Destiny to-day is master--Man was master yesterday."
+
+"So verily,
+
+    "Worthy ends come not by wishing. Wouldst thou? Up, and win it, then!
+    While the hungry lion slumbers, not a deer comes to his den."
+
+Having concluded his reflections, the Raja gave orders to assemble a
+meeting of learned men. Then said he--
+
+"Hear now, O my Pundits! Is there one among you so wise that he will
+undertake to give the second birth of Wisdom to these my sons, by
+teaching them the Books of Policy; for they have never yet read the
+Sacred Writings, and are altogether going in the wrong road; and ye know
+that
+
+    "Silly glass, in splendid settings, something of the gold may gain;
+    And in company of wise ones, fools to wisdom may attain."
+
+Then uprose a great Sage, by name Vishnu-Sarman, learned in the
+principles of Policy as is the angel of the planet Jupiter himself, and
+he said--
+
+"My Lord King, I will undertake to teach these princes Policy, seeing
+they are born of a great house; for--
+
+    "Labors spent on the unworthy, of reward the laborer balk;
+    Like the parrot, teach the heron twenty times, he will not talk."
+
+"But in this royal family the offspring are royal-minded, and in six
+moons I will engage to make your Majesty's sons comprehend Policy."
+
+The Raja replied, with condescension:--
+
+    "On the eastern mountains lying, common things shine in the sun,
+    And by learned minds enlightened, lower minds may show as one."
+
+"And you, worshipful sir, are competent to teach my children the rules
+of Policy."
+
+So saying, with much graciousness, he gave the Princes into the charge
+of Vishnu-Sarman; and that sage, by way of introduction, spake to the
+Princes, as they sat at ease on the balcony of the palace, in this
+wise:--
+
+"Hear now, my Princes! for the delectation of your Highnesses, I purpose
+to tell the tale of the Crow, the Tortoise, the Deer, and the Mouse."
+
+"Pray, sir," said the King's sons, "let us hear it."
+
+Vishnu-Sarman answered--
+
+"It begins with the Winning of Friends; and this is the first verse of
+it:--
+
+    "Sans way or wealth, wise friends their purpose gain--
+    The Mouse, Crow, Deer, and Tortoise make this plain."
+
+
+[2] The Vedas are the holy books of India. They are four in number: The
+Rig-Veda, Yajur-Veda, Sama-Veda, and Atharva-Veda.
+
+
+
+
+THE WINNING OF FRIENDS
+
+
+    Sans way or wealth, wise friends their purpose gain--
+    The Mouse, Crow, Deer, and Tortoise make this plain."
+
+"However was that?" asked the Princes.
+
+Vishnu-Sarman replied:--
+
+"On the banks of the Godavery there stood a large silk-cotton-tree, and
+thither at night, from all quarters and regions, the birds came to
+roost. Now once, when the night was just spent, and his Radiance the
+Moon, Lover of the white lotus, was about to retire behind the western
+hills, a Crow who perched there, 'Light o' Leap' by name, upon
+awakening, saw to his great wonder a fowler approaching--a second God of
+Death. The sight set him reflecting, as he flew off uneasily to follow
+up the man's movements, and he began to think what mischief this
+ill-omened apparition foretold.
+
+    "For a thousand thoughts of sorrow, and a hundred things of dread,
+    By the wise unheeded, trouble day by day the foolish head."
+
+And yet in this life it must be that
+
+    "Of the day's impending dangers, Sickness, Death, and Misery,
+    One will be; the wise man waking, ponders which that one will be."
+
+Presently the fowler fixed a net, scattered grains of rice about, and
+withdrew to hide. At this moment "Speckle-neck," King of the Pigeons,
+chanced to be passing through the sky with his Court, and caught sight
+of the rice-grains. Thereupon the King of the Pigeons asked of his
+rice-loving followers, 'How can there possibly be rice-grains lying here
+in an unfrequented forest? We will see into it, of course, but We like
+not the look of it--love of rice may ruin us, as the Traveller was
+ruined.
+
+    "All out of longing for a golden bangle,
+    The Tiger, in the mud, the man did mangle."
+
+"How did that happen?" asked the Pigeons.
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE TIGER AND THE TRAVELLER
+
+"Thus," replied Speckle-neck: "I was pecking about one day in the Deccan
+forest, and saw an old tiger sitting newly bathed on the bank of a pool,
+like a Brahman, and with holy kuskus-grass[3] in his paws.
+
+'Ho! ho! ye travellers,' he kept calling out, 'take this golden bangle!'
+
+Presently a covetous fellow passed by and heard him.
+
+'Ah!' thought he, 'this is a bit of luck--but I must not risk my neck
+for it either.
+
+    "Good things come not out of bad things; wisely leave a longed-for ill.
+    Nectar being mixed with poison serves no purpose but to kill."
+
+'But all gain is got by risk, so I will see into it at least;' then he
+called out, 'Where is thy bangle?'
+
+The Tiger stretched forth his paw and exhibited it.
+
+'Hem!' said the Traveller, 'can I trust such a fierce brute as thou
+art?'
+
+'Listen,' replied the Tiger, 'once, in the days of my cub-hood, I know I
+was very wicked. I killed cows, Brahmans, and men without number--and I
+lost my wife and children for it--and haven't kith or kin left. But
+lately I met a virtuous man who counselled me to practise the duty of
+almsgiving--and, as thou seest, I am strict at ablutions and alms.
+Besides, I am old, and my nails and fangs are gone--so who would
+mistrust me? and I have so far conquered selfishness, that I keep the
+golden bangle for whoso comes. Thou seemest poor! I will give it thee.
+Is it not said,
+
+    'Give to poor men, son of K�nti--on the wealthy waste not wealth;
+    Good are simples for the sick man, good for nought to him in health.'
+
+'Wade over the pool, therefore, and take the bangle,'
+
+Thereupon the covetous Traveller determined to trust him, and waded into
+the pool, where he soon found himself plunged in mud, and unable to
+move.
+
+'Ho! ho!' says the Tiger, 'art thou stuck in a slough? stay, I will
+fetch thee out!'
+
+So saying he approached the wretched man and seized him--who meanwhile
+bitterly reflected--
+
+    'Be his Scripture-learning wondrous, yet the cheat will be a cheat;
+    Be her pasture ne'er so bitter, yet the cow's milk will be sweet.'
+
+And on that verse, too--
+
+    'Trust not water, trust not weapons; trust not clawed nor horned
+    things;
+    Neither give thy soul to women, nor thy life to Sons of Kings.'
+
+And those others--
+
+    'Look! the Moon, the silver roamer, from whose splendor darkness flies
+    With his starry cohorts marching, like a crowned king through the
+            skies.
+    All the grandeur, all the glory, vanish in the Dragon's jaw;
+    What is written on the forehead, that will be, and nothing more,'
+
+Here his meditations were cut short by the Tiger devouring him. "And
+that," said Speckle-neck, "is why we counselled caution."
+
+"Why, yes!" said a certain pigeon, with some presumption, "but you've
+read the verse--
+
+    'Counsel in danger; of it
+      Unwarned, be nothing begun.
+    But nobody asks a Prophet
+      Shall the risk of a dinner be run?'
+
+Hearing that, the Pigeons settled at once; for we know that
+
+    "Avarice begetteth anger; blind desires from her begin;
+    A right fruitful mother is she of a countless spawn of sin.'
+
+And again,
+
+    'Can a golden Deer have being? yet for such the Hero pined:--
+    When the cloud of danger hovers, then its shadow dims the mind.'
+
+Presently they were caught in the net. Thereat, indeed, they all began
+to abuse the pigeon by whose suggestion they had been ensnared. It is
+the old tale!
+
+    "Be second and not first!--the share's the same
+    If all go well. If not, the Head's to blame."
+
+And we should remember that
+
+    "Passion will be Slave or Mistress: follow her, she brings to woe;
+    Lead her, 'tis the way to Fortune. Choose the path that thou wilt go."
+
+When King Speckle-neck heard their reproaches, he said, "No, no! it is
+no fault of his.
+
+'When the time of trouble cometh, friends may ofttimes irk us most: For
+the calf at milking-hour the mother's leg is tying-post.'
+
+'And in disaster, dismay is a coward's quality; let us rather rely on
+fortitude, and devise some remedy. How saith the sage?
+
+    "In good fortune not elated, in ill-fortune not dismayed,
+    Ever eloquent in council, never in the fight affrayed--
+    Proudly emulous of honor, steadfastly on wisdom set;
+    Perfect virtues in the nature of a noble soul are met.
+    Whoso hath them, gem and glory of the three wide worlds[4] is he;
+    Happy mother she that bore him, she who nursed him on her knee."
+
+"Let us do this now directly," continued the King: "at one moment and
+with one will, rising under the net, let us fly off with it: for indeed
+
+    'Small things wax exceeding mighty, being cunningly combined:--
+    Furious elephants are fastened with a rope of grass-blades twined.'
+
+"And it is written, you know,
+
+    'Let the household hold together, though the house be ne'er so small;
+    Strip the rice-husk from the rice-grain, and it groweth not at all.'
+
+Having pondered this advice, the Pigeons adopted it; and flew away with
+the net. At first the fowler, who was at a distance, hoped to recover
+them, but as they passed out of sight with the snare about them he gave
+up the pursuit. Perceiving this, the Pigeons said,
+
+"What is the next thing to be done, O King?"
+
+"A friend of mine," said Speckle-neck, "lives near in a beautiful forest
+on the Gundaki. Golden-skin is his name--the King of the Mice--he is the
+one to cut these bonds."
+
+Resolving to have recourse to him, they directed their flight to the
+hole of Golden-skin--a prudent monarch, who dreaded danger so much that
+he had made himself a palace with a hundred outlets, and lived always in
+it. Sitting there he heard the descent of the pigeons, and remained
+silent and alarmed.
+
+"Friend Golden-skin," cried the King, "have you no welcome for us?"
+
+"Ah, my friend!" said the Mouse-king, rushing out on recognizing the
+voice, "is it thou art come, Speckle-neck! how delightful!--But what is
+this?" exclaimed he, regarding the entangled net.
+
+"That," said King Speckle-neck, "is the effect of some wrong-doing in a
+former life--
+
+    'Sickness, anguish, bonds, and woe
+    Spring from wrongs wrought long ago,'[5]
+
+Golden-skin, without replying, ran at once to the net, and began to gnaw
+the strings that held Speckle-neck.
+
+"Nay! friend, not so," said the King, "cut me first these meshes from my
+followers, and afterwards thou shalt sever mine."
+
+"I am little," answered Golden-skin, "and my teeth are weak--how can I
+gnaw so much? No! no! I will nibble your strings as long as my teeth
+last, and afterwards do my best for the others. To preserve dependents
+by sacrificing oneself is nowhere enjoined by wise moralists; on the
+contrary--
+
+    'Keep wealth for want, but spend-it for thy wife,
+    And wife, and wealth, and all to guard thy life,'
+
+"Friend," replied King Speckle-neck, "that may be the rule of policy,
+but I am one that can by no means bear to witness the distress of those
+who depend on me, for--
+
+    'Death, that must come, comes nobly when we give
+    Our wealth, and life, and all, to make men live,'
+
+And you know the verse,
+
+    'Friend, art thou faithful? guard mine honor so!
+    And let the earthy rotting body go,'"
+
+When King Golden-skin heard this answer his heart was charmed, and his
+fur bristled up for pure pleasure. "Nobly spoken, friend," said he,
+"nobly spoken! with such a tenderness for those that look to thee, the
+Sovereignty of the Three Worlds might be fitly thine." So saying he set
+himself to cut all their bonds. This done, and the pigeons extricated,
+the King of the Mice[6] gave them his formal welcome. "But, your
+Majesty," he said, "this capture in the net was a work of destiny; you
+must not blame yourself as you did, and suspect a former fault. Is it
+not written--
+
+    'Floating on his fearless pinions, lost amid the noon-day skies,
+    Even thence the Eagle's vision kens the carcase where it lies;
+    But the hour that comes to all things comes unto the Lord of Air,
+    And he rushes, madly blinded, to his ruin in the snare,'"
+
+With this correction Golden-skin proceeded to perform the duties of
+hospitality, and afterwards, embracing and dismissing them, the pigeons
+left for such destination as they fancied, and the King of the Mice
+retired again into his hole.
+
+Now Light o' Leap, the Crow, had been a spectator of the whole
+transaction, and wondered at it so much that at last he called out, "Ho!
+Golden-skin, thou very laudable Prince, let me too be a friend of thine,
+and give me thy friendship."
+
+"Who art thou?" said Golden-skin, who heard him, but would not come out
+of his hole.
+
+"I am the Crow Light o' Leap," replied the other.
+
+"How can I possibly be on good terms with thee?" answered Golden-skin
+with a laugh; "have you never read--
+
+    'When Food is friends with Feeder, look for Woe,
+    The Jackal ate the Deer, but for the Crow,'
+
+"No! how was that?"
+
+"I will tell thee," replied Golden-skin:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE JACKAL, DEER, AND CROW
+
+"Far away in Behar there is a forest called Champak-Grove,[7] and in it
+had long lived in much affection a Deer and a Crow. The Deer, roaming
+unrestrained, happy and fat of carcase, was one day descried by a
+Jackal. 'Ho! ho!' thought the Jackal on observing him, 'if I could but
+get this soft meat for a meal! It might be--if I can only win his
+confidence,' Thus reflecting he approached, and saluted him.
+
+'Health be to thee, friend Deer!'
+
+'Who art thou?' said the Deer.
+
+'I'm Small-wit, the Jackal,' replied the other. 'I live in the wood
+here, as the dead do, without a friend; but now that I have met with
+such a friend as thou, I feel as if I were beginning life again with
+plenty of relations. Consider me your faithful servant.'
+
+'Very well,' said the Deer; and then, as the glorious King of Day, whose
+diadem is the light, had withdrawn himself, the two went together to the
+residence of the Deer. In that same spot, on a branch of Champak, dwelt
+the Crow Sharp-sense, an old friend of the Deer. Seeing them approach
+together, the Crow said,
+
+'Who is this number two, friend Deer?'
+
+'It is a Jackal,' answered the Deer, 'that desires our acquaintance.'
+
+'You should not become friendly to a stranger without reason,' said
+Sharp-sense. 'Don't you know?'
+
+    "To folks by no one known house-room deny:--
+    The Vulture housed the Cat, and thence did die."
+
+'No! how was that?' said both.
+
+'In this wise,' answered the Crow.
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE VULTURE, THE CAT, AND THE BIRDS
+
+"On the banks of the Ganges there is a cliff called Vulture-Crag, and
+thereupon grew a great fig-tree. It was hollow, and within its shelter
+lived an old Vulture, named Grey-pate, whose hard fortune it was to have
+lost both eyes and talons. The birds that roosted in the tree made
+subscriptions from their own store, out of sheer pity for the poor
+fellow, and by that means he managed to live. One day, when the old
+birds were gone, Long-ear, the Cat, came there to get a meal of the
+nestlings; and they, alarmed at perceiving him, set up a chirruping that
+roused Grey-pate.
+
+'Who comes there?' croaked Grey-pate.
+
+"Now Long-ear, on espying the Vulture, thought himself undone; but as
+flight was impossible, he resolved to trust his destiny and approach.
+
+'My lord,' said he, 'I have the honor to salute thee.'
+
+'Who is it?' said the Vulture.
+
+'I am a Cat,'
+
+'Be off, Cat, or I shall slay thee,' said the Vulture.
+
+'I am ready to die if I deserve death,' answered the Cat; 'but let what
+I have to say be heard,'
+
+'Wherefore, then, comest thou?' said the Vulture.
+
+'I live,' began Long-ear, 'on the Ganges, bathing, and eating no flesh,
+practising the moon-penance,[8] like a Bramacharya. The birds that
+resort thither constantly praise your worship to me as one wholly given
+to the study of morality, and worthy of all trust; and so I came here to
+learn law from thee, Sir, who art so deep gone in learning and in years.
+Dost thou, then, so read the law of strangers as to be ready to slay a
+guest? What say the books about the householder?--
+
+    'Bar thy door not to the stranger, be he friend or be he foe,
+    For the tree will shade the woodman while his axe doth lay it low,'
+
+And if means fail, what there is should be given with kind words, as--
+
+    'Greeting fair, and room to rest in; fire, and water from the well--
+    Simple gifts--are given freely in the house where good men dwell,'--
+
+and without respect of person--
+
+    'Young, or bent with many winters; rich, or poor, whate'er thy guest,
+    Honor him for thine own honor--better is he than the best,'
+
+Else comes the rebuke--
+
+    'Pity them that ask thy pity: who art thou to stint thy hoard,
+    When the holy moon shines equal on the leper and the lord!'
+
+And that other, too,
+
+    'When thy gate is roughly fastened, and the asker turns away,
+    Thence he bears thy good deeds with him, and his sins on thee doth lay
+
+For verily,
+
+    'In the house the husband ruleth, men the Brahmans "master" call;
+    Agni is the Twice-born Master--but the guest is lord of all,'
+
+"To these weighty words Grey-pate answered,
+
+'Yes! but cats like meat, and there are young birds here, and therefore
+I said, go,'
+
+'Sir,' said the Cat (and as he spoke he touched the ground, and then his
+two ears, and called on Krishna to witness to his words), 'I that have
+overcome passion, and practised the moon-penance, know the Scriptures;
+and howsoever they contend, in this primal duty of abstaining from
+injury they are unanimous. Which of them sayeth not--
+
+    'He who does and thinks no wrong--
+    He who suffers, being strong--
+    He whose harmlessness men know--
+    Unto Swerga such doth go.'
+
+"And so, winning the old Vulture's confidence, Long-ear, the Cat,
+entered the hollow tree and lived there. And day after day he stole away
+some of the nestlings, and brought them down to the hollow to devour.
+Meantime the parent birds, whose little ones were being eaten, made an
+inquiry after them in all quarters; and the Cat, discovering this fact,
+slipped out from the hollow, and made his escape. Afterwards, when the
+birds came to look closely, they found the bones of their young ones in
+the hollow of the tree where Grey-pate lived; and the birds at once
+concluded that their nestlings had been killed and eaten by the old
+Vulture, whom they accordingly executed. That is my story, and why I
+warned you against unknown acquaintances."
+
+"Sir," said the Jackal, with some warmth, "on the first day of your
+encountering the Deer you also were of unknown family and character: how
+is it, then, that your friendship with him grows daily greater? True, I
+am only Small-wit, the Jackal, but what says the saw?--
+
+    "In the land where no wise men are, men of little wit are lords;
+    And the castor-oil's a tree, where no tree else its shade affords."
+
+The Deer is my friend; condescend, sir, to be my friend also."
+
+'Oh!' broke in the Deer, 'why so much talking? We'll all live together,
+and be friendly and happy--
+
+    'Foe is friend, and friend is foe,
+    As our actions make them so,'
+
+"Very good," said Sharp-sense; "as you will;" and in the morning each
+started early for his own feeding-ground (returning at night). One day
+the Jackal drew the Deer aside, and whispered, 'Deer, in one corner of
+this wood there is a field full of sweet young wheat; come and let me
+show you.' The Deer accompanied him, and found the field, and afterwards
+went every day there to eat the green corn, till at last the owner of
+the ground spied him and set a snare. The Deer came again very shortly,
+and was caught in it, and (after vainly struggling) exclaimed, 'I am
+fast in the net, and it will be a net of death to me if no friend comes
+to rescue me!' Presently Small-wit, the Jackal, who had been lurking
+near, made his appearance, and standing still, he said to himself, with
+a chuckle, 'O ho! my scheme bears fruit! When he is cut up, his bones,
+and gristle, and blood, will fall to my share and make me some beautiful
+dinners,' The Deer, here catching sight of him, exclaimed with rapture,
+'Ah, friend, this is excellent! Do but gnaw these strings, and I shall
+be at liberty. How charming to realize the saying!--
+
+    'That friend only is the true friend who is near when trouble comes;
+    That man only is the brave man who can bear the battle-drums;
+    Words are wind; deed proveth promise: he who helps at need is kin;
+    And the leal wife is loving though the husband lose or win,'
+
+And is it not written--
+
+    'Friend and kinsman--more their meaning than the idle-hearted mind.
+    Many a friend can prove unfriendly, many a kinsman less than kind:
+    He who shares his comrade's portion, be he beggar, be he lord,
+    Comes as truly, comes as duly, to the battle as the board--
+    Stands before the king to succor, follows to the pile to sigh--
+    He is friend, and he is kinsman--less would make the name a lie.'
+
+"Small-wit answered nothing, but betook himself to examining the snare
+very closely.
+
+'This will certainly hold,' muttered he; then, turning to the Deer, he
+said, 'Good friend, these strings, you see, are made of sinew, and
+to-day is a fast-day, so that I cannot possibly bite them. To-morrow
+morning, if you still desire it, I shall be happy to serve you,'
+
+When he was gone, the Crow, who had missed the Deer upon returning that
+evening, and had sought for him everywhere, discovered him; and seeing
+his sad plight, exclaimed--
+
+'How came this about, my friend?'
+
+'This came,' replied the Deer, 'through disregarding a friend's advice,'
+
+'Where is that rascal Small-wit?' asked the Crow.
+
+'He is waiting somewhere by,' said the Deer, 'to taste my flesh,'
+
+'Well,' sighed the Crow, 'I warned you; but it is as in the true verse--
+
+    'Stars gleam, lamps flicker, friends foretell of fate;
+    The fated sees, knows, hears them--all too late.'
+
+And then, with a deeper sigh, he exclaimed,'Ah, traitor Jackal, what an
+ill deed hast thou done! Smooth-tongued knave--alas!--and in the face of
+the monition too--
+
+    'Absent, flatterers' tongues are daggers--present, softer than the
+            silk;
+    Shun them! 'tis a jar of poison hidden under harmless milk;
+    Shun them when they promise little! Shun them when they promise much!
+    For, enkindled, charcoal burneth--cold, it doth defile the touch.'
+
+When the day broke, the Crow (who was still there) saw the master of the
+field approaching with his club in his hand.
+
+'Now, friend Deer,' said Sharp-sense on perceiving him, 'do thou cause
+thyself to seem like one dead: puff thy belly up with wind, stiffen thy
+legs out, and lie very still. I will make a show of pecking thine eyes
+out with my beak; and whensoever I utter a croak, then spring to thy
+feet and betake thee to flight.'
+
+The Deer thereon placed himself exactly as the Crow suggested, and was
+very soon espied by the husbandman, whose eyes opened with joy at the
+sight.
+
+'Aha!' said he, 'the fellow has died of himself,' and so speaking, he
+released the Deer from the snare, and proceeded to gather and lay aside
+his nets. At that instant Sharp-sense uttered a loud croak, and the Deer
+sprang up and made off. And the club which the husbandman flung after
+him in a rage struck Small-wit, the Jackal (who was close by), and
+killed him. Is it not said, indeed?--
+
+    'In years, or moons, or half-moons three,
+    Or in three days--suddenly,
+    Knaves are shent--true men go free,'
+
+"Thou seest, then," said Golden-skin, "there can be no friendship
+between food and feeder."
+
+"I should hardly," replied the Crow, "get a large breakfast out of your
+worship; but as to that indeed you have nothing to fear from me. I am
+not often angry, and if I were, you know--
+
+    'Anger comes to noble natures, but leaves there no strife or storm:
+    Plunge a lighted torch beneath it, and the ocean grows not warm.'
+
+"Then, also, thou art such a gad-about," objected the King.
+
+"Maybe," answered Light o' Leap; "but I am bent on winning thy
+friendship, and I will die at thy door of fasting if thou grantest it
+not. Let us be friends! for
+
+    'Noble hearts are golden vases--close the bond true metals make;
+    Easily the smith may weld them, harder far it is to break.
+    Evil hearts are earthen vessels--at a touch they crack a-twain,
+    And what craftsman's ready cunning can unite the shards again?'
+
+And then, too,
+
+    'Good men's friendships may be broken, yet abide they friends at heart;
+    Snap the stem of Luxmee's lotus, and its fibres will not part.'
+
+"Good sir," said the King of the Mice, "your conversation is as pleasing
+as pearl necklets or oil of sandal-wood in hot weather. Be it as you
+will"--and thereon King Golden-skin made a treaty with the Crow, and
+after gratifying him with the best of his store re�ntered his hole. The
+Crow returned to his accustomed perch:--and thenceforward the time
+passed in mutual presents of food, in polite inquiries, and the most
+unrestrained talk. One day Light o' Leap thus accosted Golden-skin:--
+
+"This is a poor place, your Majesty, for a Crow to get a living in. I
+should like to leave it and go elsewhere."
+
+"Whither wouldst thou go?" replied the King; they say,
+
+    'One foot goes, and one foot stands,
+    When the wise man leaves his lands.'
+
+"And they say, too," answered the Crow,
+
+    'Over-love of home were weakness; wheresoever the hero come,
+    Stalwart arm and steadfast spirit find or win for him a home.
+
+    Little recks the awless lion where his hunting jungles lie--
+    When he enters it be certain that a royal prey shall die,'
+
+"I know an excellent jungle now."
+
+"Which is that?" asked the Mouse-king.
+
+"In the Nerbudda woods, by Camphor-water," replied the Crow. "There is
+an old and valued friend of mine lives there--Slow-toes his name is, a
+very virtuous Tortoise; he will regale me with fish and good things."
+
+"Why should I stay behind," said Golden-skin, "if thou goest? Take me
+also."
+
+Accordingly, the two set forth together, enjoying charming converse upon
+the road. Slow-toes perceived Light o' Leap a long way off, and hastened
+to do him the guest-rites, extending them to the Mouse upon Light o'
+Leap's introduction.
+
+"Good Slow-toes," said he, "this is Golden-skin, King of the Mice--pay
+all honor to him--he is burdened with virtues--a very jewel-mine of
+kindnesses. I don't know if the Prince of all the Serpents, with his two
+thousand tongues, could rightly repeat them." So speaking, he told the
+story of Speckle-neck. Thereupon Slow-toes made a profound obeisance to
+Golden-skin, and said, "How came your Majesty, may I ask, to retire to
+an unfrequented forest?"
+
+"I will tell you," said the King. "You must know that in the town of
+Champaka there is a college for the devotees. Unto this resorted daily a
+beggar-priest, named Chudakarna, whose custom was to place his
+begging-dish upon the shelf, with such alms in it as he had not eaten,
+and go to sleep by it; and I, so soon as he slept, used to jump up, and
+devour the meal. One day a great friend of his, named Vinakarna, also a
+mendicant, came to visit him; and observed that while conversing, he
+kept striking the ground with a split cane, to frighten me. 'Why don't
+you listen?' said Vinakarna. 'I am listening!' replied the other; 'but
+this plaguy mouse is always eating the meal out of my begging-dish,'
+Vinakarna looked at the shelf and remarked, 'However can a mouse jump as
+high as this? There must be a reason, though there seems none. I guess
+the cause--the fellow is well off and fat,' With these words Vinakarna
+snatched up a shovel, discovered my retreat, and took away all my hoard
+of provisions. After that I lost strength daily, had scarcely energy
+enough to get my dinner, and, in fact, crept about so wretchedly, that
+when Chudakarna saw me he fell to quoting--
+
+    'Very feeble folk are poor folk; money lost takes wit away:--
+    All their doings fail like runnels, wasting through the summer day.'
+
+"Yes!" I thought, "he is right, and so are the sayings--
+
+    'Wealth is friends, home, father, brother--title to respect and fame;
+     Yea, and wealth is held for wisdom--that it should be so is shame,'
+    'Home is empty to the childless; hearts to them who friends deplore:--
+     Earth unto the idle-minded; and the three worlds to the poor.'
+
+'I can stay here no longer; and to tell my distress to another is out of
+the question--altogether out of the question!--
+
+    'Say the sages, nine things name not: Age, domestic joys and woes,
+    Counsel, sickness, shame, alms, penance; neither Poverty disclose.
+    Better for the proud of spirit, death, than life with losses told;
+    Fire consents to be extinguished, but submits not to be cold.'
+
+'Verily he was wise, methought also, who wrote--
+
+    'As Age doth banish beauty,
+      As moonlight dies in gloom,
+    As Slavery's menial duty
+      Is Honor's certain tomb;
+    As Hari's name and Hara's
+      Spoken, charm sin away,
+    So Poverty can surely
+      A hundred virtues slay.'
+
+'And as to sustaining myself on another man's bread, that,' I mused,
+'would be but a second door of death. Say not the books the same?--
+
+    'Half-known knowledge, present pleasure purchased with a future woe,
+    And to taste the salt of service--greater griefs no man can know.'
+
+'And herein, also--
+
+    'All existence is not equal, and all living is not life;
+    Sick men live; and he who, banished, pines for children, home, and
+            wife;
+    And the craven-hearted eater of another's leavings lives,
+    And the wretched captive waiting for the word of doom survives;
+    But they bear an anguished body, and they draw a deadly breath,
+    And life cometh to them only on the happy day of death.'
+
+Yet, after all these reflections, I was covetous enough to make one
+more attempt on Chudakarna's meal, and got a blow from the split cane
+for my pains. 'Just so,' I said to myself, 'the soul and organs of the
+discontented want keeping in subjection. I must be done with
+discontent:--
+
+'Golden gift, serene Contentment! have thou that, and all is had; Thrust
+thy slipper on, and think thee that the earth is leather-clad.'
+
+'All is known, digested, tested; nothing new is left to learn When the
+soul, serene, reliant, Hope's delusive dreams can spurn.'
+
+'And the sorry task of seeking favor is numbered in the miseries of
+life--
+
+'Hast thou never watched, a-waiting till the great man's door unbarred?
+Didst thou never linger parting, saying many a last sad word? Spak'st
+thou never word of folly, one light thing thou wouldst recall? Rare and
+noble hath thy life been! fair thy fortune did befall!'
+
+'No!' exclaimed I, 'I will do none of these; but, by retiring into the
+quiet and untrodden forest, I will show my discernment of real good and
+ill. The holy Books counsel it--
+
+'True Religion!--'tis not blindly prating what the priest may prate, But
+to love, as God hath loved them, all things, be they small or great; And
+true bliss is when a sane mind doth a healthy body fill; And true
+knowledge is the knowing what is good and what is ill.'
+
+"So came I to the forest, where, by good fortune and this good friend, I
+met much kindness; and by the same good fortune have encountered you,
+Sir, whose friendliness is as Heaven to me. Ah! Sir Tortoise,
+
+    'Poisonous though the tree of life be, two fair blossoms grow thereon:
+    One, the company of good men; and sweet songs of Poet's, one.'
+
+"King!" said Slow-toes, "your error was getting too much, without
+giving. Give, says the sage--
+
+    'Give, and it shall swell thy getting; give, and thou shalt safer keep:
+    Pierce the tank-wall; or it yieldeth, when the water waxes deep.'
+
+And he is very hard upon money-grubbing: as thus--
+
+    'When the miser hides his treasure in the earth, he doeth well;
+    For he opens up a passage that his soul may sink to hell,'
+
+
+And thus--
+
+    'He whose coins are kept for counting, not to barter nor to give,
+    Breathe he like a blacksmith's bellows, yet in truth he doth not live.'
+
+It hath been well written, indeed,
+
+    'Gifts, bestowed with words of kindness, making giving doubly dear:--
+    Wisdom, deep, complete, benignant, of all arrogancy clear;
+    Valor, never yet forgetful of sweet Mercy's pleading prayer;
+    Wealth, and scorn of wealth to spend it--oh! but these be virtues
+            rare!'
+
+"Frugal one may be," continued Slow-toes; "but not a niggard like the
+Jackal--
+
+    'The Jackal-knave, that starved his spirit so,
+    And died of saving, by a broken bow.'
+
+"Did he, indeed," said Golden-skin; "and how was that?"
+
+"I will tell you," answered Slow-toes:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE DEAD GAME AND THE JACKAL
+
+"In a town called 'Well-to-Dwell' there lived a mighty hunter, whose
+name was 'Grim-face,' Feeling a desire one day for a little venison, he
+took his bow, and went into the woods; where he soon killed a deer. As
+he was carrying the deer home, he came upon a wild boar of prodigious
+proportions. Laying the deer upon the earth, he fixed and discharged an
+arrow and struck the boar, which instantly rushed upon him with a roar
+louder than the last thunder, and ripped the hunter up. He fell like a
+tree cut by the axe, and lay dead along with the boar, and a snake also,
+which had been crushed by the feet of the combatants. Not long
+afterwards, there came that way, in his prowl for food, a Jackal, named
+'Howl o' Nights,' and cast eyes on the hunter, the deer, the boar, and
+the snake lying dead together. 'Aha!' said he, 'what luck! Here's a
+grand dinner got ready for me! Good fortune can come, I see, as well as
+ill fortune. Let me think:--the man will be fine pickings for a month;
+the deer with the boar will last two more; the snake will do for
+to-morrow; and, as I am very particularly hungry, I will treat myself
+now to this bit of meat on the bow-horn,' So saying, he began to gnaw it
+asunder, and the bow-string slipping, the bow sprang back, and resolved
+Howl o' Nights into the five elements by death. That is my story,"
+continued Slow-toes, "and its application is for the wise:--
+
+    'Sentences of studied wisdom, nought avail they unapplied;
+    Though the blind man hold a lantern, yet his footsteps stray aside.'
+
+The secret of success, indeed, is a free, contented, and yet
+enterprising mind. How say the books thereon?--
+
+    'Wouldst thou know whose happy dwelling Fortune entereth unknown?
+    His, who careless of her favor, standeth fearless in his own;
+    His, who for the vague to-morrow barters not the sure to-day--
+    Master of himself, and sternly steadfast to the rightful way:
+    Very mindful of past service, valiant, faithful, true of heart--
+    Unto such comes Lakshmi[9] smiling--comes, and will not lightly part.'
+
+"What indeed," continued Slow-toes, "is wealth, that we should prize it,
+or grieve to lose it?--
+
+    'Be not haughty, being wealthy; droop not, having lost thine all;
+    Fate doth play with mortal fortunes as a girl doth toss her ball.'
+
+It is unstable by nature. We are told--
+
+    'Worldly friendships, fair but fleeting, shadows of the clouds at noon
+    Women, youth, new corn, and riches--these be pleasures passing soon.'
+
+And it is idle to be anxious; the Master of Life knows how to sustain
+it. Is it not written?--
+
+    'For thy bread be not o'er thoughtful--God for all hath taken thought:
+    When the babe is born, the sweet milk to the mother's breast is
+            brought.
+
+    He who gave the swan her silver, and the hawk her plumes of pride,
+    And his purples to the peacock--He will verily provide.'
+
+"Yes, verily," said Slow-toes, "wealth is bad to handle, and better left
+alone; there is no truer saying than this--
+
+    'Though for good ends, waste not on wealth a minute;
+    Mud may be wiped, but wise men plunge not in it.'
+
+Hearing the wisdom of these monitions, Light o' Leap broke out, 'Good
+Slow-toes! thou art a wise protector of those that come to thee; thy
+learning comforts my enlightened friend, as elephants drag elephants
+from the mire,' And thus, on the best of terms, wandering where they
+pleased for food, the three lived there together.
+
+One day it chanced that a Deer named Dapple-back, who had seen some
+cause of alarm in the forest, came suddenly upon the three in his
+flight. Thinking the danger imminent, Slow-toes dropped into the water,
+King Golden-skin slipped into his hole, and Light o' Leap flew up into
+the top of a high tree. Thence he looked all round to a great distance,
+but could discover nothing. So they all came back again, and sat down
+together. Slow-toes welcomed the Deer.
+
+'Good Deer,' said he, 'may grass and water never fail thee at thy need.
+Gratify us by residing here, and consider this forest thine own.'
+
+'Indeed,' answered Dapple-back, 'I came hither for your protection,
+flying from a hunter; and to live with you in friendship is my greatest
+desire.'
+
+'Then the thing is settled,' observed Golden-skin.
+
+'Yes! yes!' said Light o' Leap, 'make yourself altogether at home!'
+
+So the Deer, charmed at his reception, ate grass and drank water, and
+laid himself down in the shade of a Banyan-tree to talk. Who does not
+know?--
+
+    'Brunettes, and the Banyan's shadow,
+      Well-springs, and a brick-built wall.
+    Are all alike cool in the summer,
+      And warm in the winter--all.'
+
+'What made thee alarmed, friend Deer?' began Slow-toes. 'Do hunters ever
+come to this unfrequented forest?'
+
+'I have heard,' replied Dapple-back, 'that the Prince of the Kalinga
+country, Rukmangada, is coming here. He is even now encamped on the
+Cheenab River, on his march to subjugate the borders; and the hunters
+have been heard to say that he will halt to-morrow by this very lake of
+"Camphor-water." Don't you think, as it is dangerous to stay, that we
+ought to resolve on something?'
+
+'I shall certainly go to another pool,' exclaimed Slow-toes.
+
+'It would be better,' answered the Crow and Deer together.
+
+'Yes!' remarked the King of the Mice, after a minute's thought; 'but how
+is Slow-toes to get across the country in time? Animals like our
+amphibious host are best in the water; on land he might suffer from his
+own design, like the merchant's son--
+
+    'The merchant's son laid plans for gains,
+    And saw his wife kissed for his pains.'
+
+'How came that about?' asked all. "I'll tell you," answered Golden-skin.
+
+
+THE PRINCE AND THE WIFE OF THE MERCHANT'S SON
+
+"In the country of Kanouj there was a King named Virasena, and he made
+his son viceroy of a city called Virapoora. The Prince was rich,
+handsome, and in the bloom of youth. Passing through the streets of his
+city one day, he observed a very lovely woman, whose name was
+L�vanyavati--i.e., the Beautiful--the wife of a merchant's son. On
+reaching his palace, full of her charms and of passionate admiration for
+them, he despatched a message to her, and a letter, by a female
+attendant:--who wonders at it?--
+
+    'Ah! the gleaming, glancing arrows of a lovely woman's eye!
+    Feathered with her jetty lashes, perilous they pass us by:--
+    Loosed at venture from the black bows of her arching brow they part,
+    All too penetrant and deadly for an undefended heart.'
+
+Now L�vanyavati, from the moment she saw the Prince, was hit with the
+same weapon of love that wounded him; but upon hearing the message of
+the attendant, she refused with dignity to receive his letter.
+
+'I am my husband's,' she said, 'and that is my honor; for--
+
+    'Beautiful the Ko�l[10] seemeth for the sweetness of his song,
+    Beautiful the world esteemeth pious souls for patience strong;
+    Homely features lack not favor when true wisdom they reveal,
+    And a wife is fair and honored while her heart is firm and leal.'
+
+What the lord of my life enjoins, that I do.'
+
+'Is such my answer?' asked the attendant.
+
+'It is,' said L�vanyavati.
+
+Upon the messenger reporting her reply to the Prince, he was in despair.
+
+'The God of the five shafts has hit me,' he exclaimed, 'and only her
+presence will cure my wound.'
+
+'We must make her husband bring her, then,' said the messenger.
+
+'That can never be,' replied the Prince.
+
+'It can,' replied the messenger--
+
+    'Fraud may achieve what force would never try:--
+    The Jackal killed the Elephant thereby.'
+
+'How was that?' asked the Prince. The Slave related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE OLD JACKAL AND THE ELEPHANT
+
+"In the forest of Brahma[11] lived an Elephant, whose name was
+'White-front.' The Jackals knew him, and said among themselves, 'If this
+great brute would but die, there would be four months' food for us, and
+plenty, out of his carcase.' With that an old Jackal stood up, and
+pledged himself to compass the death of the Elephant by his own wit.
+Accordingly, he sought for 'White-front,' and, going up to him, he made
+the reverential prostration of the eight members, gravely saluting him.
+
+'Divine creature,' said he, 'vouchsafe me the regard of one look.'
+
+'Who art thou?' grunted the Elephant,'and whence comest thou?'
+
+'I am only a Jackal,' said the other; 'but the beasts of the forest are
+convinced that it is not expedient to live without a king, and they have
+met in full council, and despatched me to acquaint your Royal Highness
+that on you, endowed with so many lordly qualities, their choice has
+fallen for a sovereign over the forest here; for--
+
+    'Who is just, and strong, and wise?
+    Who is true to social ties?
+    He is formed for Emperies.
+
+Let your Majesty, therefore, repair thither at once, that the moment of
+fortunate conjunction may not escape us.' So saying he led the way,
+followed at a great pace by White-front, who was eager to commence his
+reign.
+
+"Presently the Jackal brought him upon a deep slough, into which he
+plunged heavily before he could stop himself.
+
+'Good master Jackal,' cried the Elephant,'what's to do now? I am up to
+my belly in this quagmire.'
+
+'Perhaps your Majesty,' said the Jackal, with an impudent laugh, 'will
+condescend to take hold of the tip of my brush with your trunk, and so
+get out.'
+
+'Then White-front, the Elephant, knew that he had been deceived; and
+thus he sank in the slime, and was devoured by the Jackals. Hence,'
+continued the attendant, 'is why I suggested stratagem to your
+Highness,'
+
+Shortly afterwards, by the Slave's advice, the Prince sent for the
+merchant's son (whose name was Charudatta), and appointed him to be near
+his person; and one day, with the same design, when he was just come
+from the bath, and had on his jewels, he summoned Charudatta, and said--
+
+"I have a vow to keep to Gauri--bring hither to me every evening for a
+month some lady of good family, that I may do honor to her, according to
+my vow; and begin to-day."
+
+Charudatta in due course brought a lady of quality, and, having
+introduced her, retired to watch the interview. The Prince, without even
+approaching his fair visitor, made her the most respectful obeisances,
+and dismissed her with gifts of ornaments, sandal-wood, and perfumes,
+under the protection of a guard. This made Charudatta confident, and
+longing to get some of these princely presents he brought his own wife
+next evening. When the Prince recognized the charming L�vanyavati--the
+joy of his soul--he sprang to meet her, and kissed and caressed her
+without the least restraint. At sight of this the miserable Charudatta
+stood transfixed with despair--the very picture of wretchedness'----
+
+'And you too, Slow-toes--but where is he gone?' abruptly asked King
+Golden-skin.
+
+Now Slow-toes had not chosen to wait the end of the story, but was gone
+before, and Golden-skin and the others followed him up in some anxiety.
+The Tortoise had been painfully travelling along, until a hunter, who
+was beating the wood for game, had overtaken him. The fellow, who was
+very hungry, picked him up, fastened him on his bow-stick, and set off
+for home; while the Deer, the Crow, and the Mouse, who had witnessed
+the capture, followed them in terrible concern. 'Alas!' cried the
+Mouse-king, 'he is gone!--and such a friend!
+
+    'Friend! gracious word!--the heart to tell is ill able
+    Whence came to men this jewel of a syllable.'
+
+'Let us,' continued he to his companions, 'let us make one attempt, at
+least, to rescue Slow-toes before the hunter is out of the wood!'
+
+'Only tell us how to do it,' replied they.
+
+'Do thus,' said Golden-skin: 'let Dapple-back hasten on to the water,
+and lie down there and make himself appear dead; and do you, Light o'
+Leap, hover over him and peck about his body. The hunter is sure to put
+the Tortoise down to get the venison, and I will gnaw his bonds.'
+
+'The Deer and the Crow started at once; and the hunter, who was sitting
+down to rest under a tree and drinking water, soon caught sight of the
+Deer, apparently dead. Drawing his wood-knife, and putting the Tortoise
+down by the water, he hastened to secure the Deer, and Golden-skin, in
+the meantime, gnawed asunder the string that held Slow-toes, who
+instantly dropped into the pool. The Deer, of course, when the hunter
+got near, sprang up and made off, and when he returned to the tree the
+Tortoise was gone also. "I deserve this," thought he--
+
+    'Whoso for greater quits his gain,
+    Shall have his labor for his pain;
+    The things unwon unwon remain,
+    And what was won is lost again.'
+
+And so lamenting, he went to his village. Slow-toes and his friends,
+quit of all fears, repaired together to their new habitations, and there
+lived happily.
+
+Then spake the King Sudarsana's sons, "We have heard every word, and are
+delighted; it fell out just as we wished."
+
+"I rejoice thereat, my Princes," said Vishnu-Sarman; "may it also fall
+out according to this my wish--
+
+    "Lakshmi give you friends like these!
+    Lakshmi keep your lands in ease!
+    Set, your sovereign thrones beside,
+    Policy, a winsome bride!
+    And He, whose forehead-jewel is the moon
+    Give peace to us and all--serene and soon."
+
+
+[3] Used in many religious observances by the Hindoos.
+
+[4] Heaven, earth, and the lower regions.
+
+[5] The Hindoo accounts for the origin of evil by this theory of a
+series of existences continued until the balance is just, and the soul
+has purified itself. Every fault must have its expiation and every
+higher faculty its development; pain and misery being signs of the
+ordeals in the trial, which is to end in the happy re-absorption of the
+emancipated spirit.
+
+[6] The mouse, as vehicle of Gunesh, is an important animal in Hindoo
+legend.
+
+[7] The champak is a bushy tree, bearing a profusion of star-like
+blossoms with golden centres, and of the most pleasing perfume.
+
+[8] A religious observance. The devotee commences the penance at the
+full moon with an allowance of fifteen mouthfuls for his food,
+diminishing this by one mouthful each day, till on the fifteenth it is
+reduced to one. As the new moon increases, his allowance ascends to its
+original proportion.
+
+[9] The wife of Vishnoo, Goddess of beauty and abundance.
+
+[10] The black or Indian cuckoo.
+
+[11] A grove where the Vedas are read and expounded.
+
+
+
+
+THE PARTING OF FRIENDS
+
+Then spake the Royal Princes to Vishnu-Sarman,
+
+"Reverend Sir! we have listened to the 'Winning of Friends,' we would
+now hear how friends are parted."
+
+"Attend, then," replied the Sage, "to 'the Parting of Friends,' the
+first couplet of which runs in this wise--
+
+    'The Jackal set--of knavish cunning full--
+    At loggerheads the Lion and the Bull.'
+
+"How was that?" asked the sons of the Rajah.
+
+Vishnu-Sarman proceeded to relate:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE LION, THE JACKALS, AND THE BULL
+
+"In the Deccan there is a city called Golden-town, and a wealthy
+merchant lived there named Well-to-do. He had abundant means, but as
+many of his relations were even yet richer, his mind was bent: upon
+outdoing them by gaining more. Enough is never what we have--
+
+    'Looking down on lives below them, men of little store are great;
+    Looking up to higher fortunes, hard to each man seems his fate.'
+
+And is not wealth won by courage and enterprise?--
+
+    'As a bride, unwisely wedded, shuns the cold caress of eld,
+    So, from coward souls and slothful, Lakshmi's favors turn repelled.'
+
+    'Ease, ill-health, home-keeping, sleeping, woman-service, and content--
+    In the path that leads to greatness these be six obstructions sent.'
+
+And wealth that increases not, diminishes--a little gain is so far
+good--
+
+    'Seeing how the soorma wasteth, seeing how the ant-hill grows,
+    Little adding unto little--live, give, learn, as life-time goes.'
+
+    'Drops of water falling, falling, falling, brim the chatty o'er;
+    Wisdom comes in little lessons--little gains make largest store.'
+
+Moved by these reflections Well-to-do loaded a cart with wares of all
+kinds, yoked two bulls to it, named Lusty-life and Roarer, and started
+for Kashmir to trade. He had not gone far upon his journey when in
+passing through a great forest called Bramble-wood, Lusty-life slipped
+down and broke his foreleg. At sight of this disaster Well-to-do fell
+a-thinking, and repeated--
+
+    'Men their cunning schemes may spin--
+    God knows who shall lose or win.'
+
+Comforting himself with such philosophy, Well-to-do left Lusty-life
+there, and went on his way. The Bull watched him depart, and stood
+mournfully on three legs, alone in the forest. 'Well, well,' he thought,
+'it is all destiny whether I live or die:--
+
+    'Shoot a hundred shafts, the quarry lives and flies--not due to death;
+    When his hour is come, a grass-blade hath a point to stop his breath.'
+
+As the days passed by, and Lusty-life picked about in the tender forest
+grass, he grew wonderfully well, and fat of carcase, and happy, and
+bellowed about the wood as though it were his own. Now, the reigning
+monarch of the forest was King Tawny-hide the Lion, who ruled over the
+whole country absolutely, by right of having deposed everybody else. Is
+not might right?--
+
+    'Robes were none, nor oil of unction, when the King of Beasts was
+            crowned:--
+    'Twas his own fierce roar proclaimed him, rolling all his kingdom
+            round.'
+
+One morning, his Majesty, being exceedingly thirsty, had repaired to the
+bank of the Jumna to drink water, and just as he was about to lap it,
+the bellow of Lusty-life, awful as the thunder of the last day, reached
+the imperial ears. Upon catching the sound the King retreated in
+trepidation to his own lair, without drinking a drop, and stood there in
+silence and alarm revolving what it could mean. In this position he was
+observed by the sons of his minister, two jackals named Karataka and
+Damanaka, who began to remark upon it.
+
+'Friend Karataka,' said the last,'what makes our royal master slink away
+from the river when he was dying to drink?'
+
+'Why should we care?' replied Karataka. 'It's bad enough to serve him,
+and be neglected for our pains--
+
+    'Oh, the bitter salt of service!--toil, frost, fire, are not so keen:--
+    Half such heavy penance bearing, tender consciences were clean.'
+
+'Nay, friend! never think thus,' said Damanaka--
+
+    'What but for their vassals,
+    Elephant and man--
+    Swing of golden tassels,
+    Wave of silken fan--
+    But for regal manner
+    That the "Chattra"[12] brings,
+    Horse, and foot, and banner--
+    What would come of kings?'
+
+'I care not,' replied Karataka; 'we have nothing to do with it, and
+matters that don't concern us are best left alone. You know the story of
+the Monkey, don't you?'--
+
+    'The Monkey drew the sawyer's wedge, and died:--
+    Let meddlers mark it, and be edified.'
+
+'No!' said Damanaka. 'How was it?'
+
+'In this way,' answered Karataka:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE MONKEY AND THE WEDGE
+
+"In South Behar, close by the retreat of Dhurmma, there was an open plot
+of ground, upon which a temple was in course of erection, under the
+management of a man of the K�yeth caste, named Subhadatta. A carpenter
+upon the works had partly sawed through a long beam of wood, and wedged
+it open, and was gone away, leaving the wedge fixed. Shortly afterwards
+a large herd of monkeys came frolicking that way, and one of their
+number, directed doubtless by the Angel of death, got astride the beam,
+and grasped the wedge, with his tail and lower parts dangling down
+between the pieces of the wood. Not content with this, in the mischief
+natural to monkeys, he began to tug at the wedge; till at last it
+yielded to a great effort and came out; when the wood closed upon him,
+and jammed him all fast. So perished the monkey, miserably crushed; and
+I say again--
+
+    'Let meddlers mark it, and be edified.'
+
+'But surely,' argued Damanaka, 'servants are bound to watch the
+movements of their masters!'
+
+'Let the prime minister do it, then,' answered Karataka; 'it is his
+business to overlook things, and subordinates shouldn't interfere in the
+department of their chief. You might get ass's thanks for it--
+
+    'The Ass that hee-hawed, when the dog should do it,
+    For his lord's welfare, like an ass did rue it.'
+
+Damanaka asked how that happened, and Karataka related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE WASHERMAN'S JACKASS
+
+"There was a certain Washerman at Benares, whose name was Carp�rapataka,
+and he had an Ass and a Dog in his courtyard; the first tethered, and
+the last roaming loose. Once on a time, when he had been spending his
+morning in the society of his wife, whom he had just married, and had
+fallen to sleep in her arms, a robber entered the house, and began to
+carry off his goods. The Ass observed the occupation of the thief, and
+was much concerned.
+
+'Good Dog,' said he, 'this is thy matter: why dost thou not bark aloud,
+and rouse the master?'
+
+'Gossip Ass,' replied the Dog, 'leave me alone to guard the premises. I
+can do it, if I choose; but the truth is, this master of ours thinks
+himself so safe lately that he clean forgets me, and I don't find my
+allowance of food nearly regular enough. Masters will do so; and a
+little fright will put him in mind of his defenders again.'
+
+'Thou scurvy cur!' exclaimed the Ass--
+
+'At the work-time, asking wages--is it like a faithful herd?'
+
+'Thou extreme Ass!' replied the Dog.
+
+'When the work's done, grudging wages--is that acting like a lord?'
+
+'Mean-spirited beast,' retorted the Ass, 'who neglectest thy master's
+business! Well, then, I at least will endeavor to arouse him; it is no
+less than religion,
+
+    'Serve the Sun with sweat of body; starve thy maw to feed the flame;
+    Stead thy lord with all thy service; to thy death go, quit of blame.'
+
+So saying, he put forth his very best braying. The Washerman sprang up
+at the noise, and missing the thief, turned in a rage upon the Ass for
+disturbing him, and beat it with a cudgel to such an extent that the
+blows resolved the poor animal into the five elements of death. 'So
+that,' continued Karataka, 'is why I say, Let the prime minister look to
+him. The hunting for prey is our duty--let us stick to it, then. And
+this,' he said, with a meditative look, 'need not trouble us to-day; for
+we have a capital dish of the royal leavings.'
+
+'What!' said Damanaka, rough with rage, 'dost thou serve the King for
+the sake of thy belly? Why take any such trouble to preserve an
+existence like thine?--
+
+    'Many prayers for him are uttered whereon many a life relies;
+    'Tis but one poor fool the fewer when the gulping Raven dies.'
+
+For assisting friends, and defeating enemies also, the service of kings
+is desirable. To enter upon it for a mere living makes the thing low
+indeed. There must be dogs and elephants; but servants need not be like
+hungry curs, while their masters are noble. What say the books?
+
+    'Give thy Dog the merest mouthful, and he crouches at thy feet,
+    Wags his tail, and fawns, and grovels, in his eagerness to eat;
+    Bid the Elephant be feeding, and the best of fodder bring;
+    Gravely--after much entreaty--condescends that mighty king.'
+
+'Well, well!' said Karataka; 'the books are nothing to us, who are not
+councillors.'
+
+'But we may come to be,' replied Damanaka; 'men rise, not by chance or
+nature, but by exertions--
+
+    'By their own deeds men go downward, by them men mount upward all,
+    Like the diggers of a well, and like the builders of a wall.'
+
+Advancement is slow--but that is in the nature of things--
+
+    'Rushes down the hill the crag, which upward 'twas so hard to roll:
+    So to virtue slowly rises--so to vice quick sinks the soul.'
+
+'Very good,' observed Karataka; 'but what is all this talk about?'
+
+'Why! don't you see our Royal Master there, and how he came home without
+drinking? I know he has been horribly frightened,' said Damanaka.
+
+'How do you know it?' asked the other.
+
+'By my perception--at a glance!' replied Damanaka; 'and I mean to make
+out of this occasion that which shall put his Majesty at my disposal,'
+
+'Now,' exclaimed Karataka, 'it is thou who art ignorant about service--
+
+    'Who speaks unasked, or comes unbid,
+    Or counts on favor--will be chid.'
+
+'I ignorant about service!' said Damanaka; 'no, no, my friend, I know
+the secret of it--
+
+    'Wise, modest, constant, ever close at hand,
+    Not weighing but obeying all command,
+    Such servant by a Monarch's throne may stand.'
+
+'In any case, the King often rates thee,' remarked Karataka, 'for coming
+to the presence unsummoned.'
+
+'A dependent,' replied Damanaka, 'should nevertheless present himself;
+he must make himself known to the great man, at any risk--
+
+    'Pitiful, that fearing failure, therefore no beginning makes,
+    Who forswears his daily dinner for the chance of stomach-aches?'
+
+and besides, to be near is at last to be needful;--is it not said--
+
+    'Nearest to the King is dearest, be thy merit low or high;
+    Women, creeping plants, and princes, twine round that which groweth
+            nigh.'
+
+'Well,' inquired Karataka, 'what wilt thou say, being come to him?'
+
+'First,' replied Damanaka, 'I will discover if his Majesty is well
+affected to me.'
+
+'How do you compass that?' asked the other.
+
+'Oh, easily! by a look, a word,' answered Damanaka; 'and that
+ascertained, I will proceed to speak what will put him at my disposal.'
+
+'I can't see how you can venture to speak,' objected the other,
+'without an opportunity--
+
+    'If Vrihaspati, the Grave,
+      Spoke a sentence out of season,
+    Even Vrihaspati would have
+      Strong rebuke for such unreason.'
+
+'Pray don't imagine I shall speak unseasonably,' interrupted Damanaka;
+'if that is all you fear, I will start at once.'
+
+'Go, then,' said Karataka; 'and may you be as lucky as you hope.'
+
+"Thereupon Damanaka set out for the lair of King Tawny-hide; putting on,
+as he approached it, the look of one greatly disconcerted. The Rajah
+observed him coming, and gave permission that he should draw near; of
+which Damanaka availing himself, made reverential prostration of the
+eight members and sat down upon his haunches.
+
+'You have come at last, then, Sir Jackal!' growled his Majesty.
+
+'Great Monarch!' humbly replied Damanaka, 'my service is not worthy of
+laying at your imperial feet, but a servant should attend when he can
+perform a service, and therefore I am come--
+
+    'When Kings' ears itch, they use a straw to scratch 'em;
+    When Kings' foes plot, they get wise men to match 'em.'
+
+'H'm!' growled the Lion.
+
+'Your Majesty suspects my intellect, I fear,' continued the
+Jackal,'after so long an absence from your Majesty's feet; but, if I may
+say so, it is still sound.'
+
+'H'm!' growled the Lion again.
+
+'A king, may it please your Majesty, should know how to estimate his
+servants, whatever their position--
+
+    'Pearls are dull in leaden settings, but the setter is to blame;
+    Glass will glitter like the ruby, dulled with dust--are they the same?
+
+    'And a fool may tread on jewels, setting in his crown mere glass;
+    Yet, at selling, gems are gems, and fardels but for fardels pass.'
+
+'Servants, gracious liege! are good or bad as they are entertained. Is
+it not written?--
+
+    'Horse and weapon, lute and volume, man and woman, gift of speech,
+    Have their uselessness or uses in the One who owneth each.'
+
+'And if I have been traduced to your Majesty as a dull fellow, that hath
+not made me so--
+
+    'Not disparagement nor slander kills the spirit of the brave;
+    Fling a torch down, upward ever burns the brilliant flame it gave.'
+
+'Accept then, Sire, from the humblest of your slaves his very humble
+counsel--for
+
+    'Wisdom from the mouth of children be it overpast of none;
+    What man scorns to walk by lamplight in the absence of the sun?'
+
+'Good Damanaka,' said King Tawny-hide, somewhat appeased, 'how is it
+that thou, so wise a son of our first minister, hast been absent all
+this while from our Court? But now speak thy mind fearlessly: what
+wouldst thou?'
+
+'Will your Majesty deign to answer one question?' said Damanaka.
+'Wherefore came He back from the river without drinking?'
+
+'Hush!' whispered the King, 'thou hast hit right upon my trouble. I knew
+no one unto whom I might confide it; but thou seemest a faithful fellow,
+and I will tell thee. Listen, then,' continued his Majesty in an
+agitated whisper, 'there is some awful beast that was never seen before
+in this wood here; and we shall have to leave it, look you. Did you hear
+by chance the inconceivable great roar he gave? What a strong beast it
+must be to have such a voice!'
+
+'May it please your Majesty, I did hear the noise,' said the Jackal,
+'and there is doubtless cause for terrible apprehension therein; but
+take comfort, my Liege, he is no minister who bids thee prepare for
+either war or resignation. All will go well, and your Majesty will learn
+by this difficulty which be your best servants,'
+
+'Good Jackal,' said Tawny-hide, 'I am horribly frightened about it.'
+
+'I can see that,' thought Damanaka; but he only said, 'Fear nothing, my
+liege, while thy servant survives,'
+
+'What shall I do?' asked the King.
+
+'It is well to encourage those who can avert disaster. If your Majesty
+condescended now to bestow some favor on Karataka and the other----'
+
+'It shall be done,' said the Rajah; and, summoning the other Jackals, he
+gave them and Damanaka a magnificent gift of flesh, and they left the
+presence, undertaking to meet the threatened danger.
+
+'But, brother,' began Karataka,'haven't we eaten the King's dinner
+without knowing what the danger is which we are to meet, and whether we
+can obviate it?'
+
+'Hold thy peace,' said Damanaka, laughing; 'I know very well what the
+danger is! It was a bull, aha! that bellowed--a bull, my brother--whose
+beef you and I could pick, much more the King our master.'
+
+'And why not tell him so?' asked Karataka.
+
+'What! and quiet his Majesty's fears! And where would our splendid
+dinner have been then? No, no, my friend--
+
+    'Set not your lord at ease; for, doing that,
+    Might starve you as it starved "Curd-ear" the Cat.'
+
+'Who was Curd-ear, the Cat?' inquired Karataka. Damanaka related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE CAT WHO SERVED THE LION
+
+"Far away in the North, on a mountain named 'Thousand-Crags,' there
+lived a lion called 'Mighty-heart'; and he was much annoyed by a certain
+mouse, who made a custom of nibbling his mane while he lay asleep in his
+den. The Lion would wake in a great rage at finding the ends of his
+magnificent mane made ragged, but the little mouse ran into his hole,
+and he could never catch it. After much consideration he went down to a
+village, and got a Cat named Curd-ear to come to his cave with much
+persuasion. He kept the Cat royally on all kinds of dainties, and slept
+comfortably without having his mane nibbled, as the mouse would now
+never venture out. Whenever the Lion heard the mouse scratching about,
+that was always a signal for regaling the Cat in a most distinguished
+style. But one day, the wretched mouse being nearly starved, he took
+courage to creep timidly from his hole, and was directly pounced upon by
+Curd-ear and killed. After that the Lion heard no more of the mouse, and
+quite left off his regular entertainments of the Cat. No!" concluded
+Damanaka, "we will keep our mouse alive for his Majesty."
+
+So conversing, the Jackals went away to find Lusty-life the Bull, and
+upon discovering him, Karataka squatted down with great dignity at the
+foot of a tree, while Damanaka approached to accost him.
+
+'Bull,' said Damanaka, 'I am the warder of this forest under the King
+Tawny-hide, and Karataka the Jackal there is his General. The General
+bids thee come before him, or else instantly depart from the wood. It
+were better for thee to obey, for his anger is terrible,'
+
+'Thereupon Lusty-life, knowing nothing of the country customs, advanced
+at once to Karataka, made the respectful prostration of the eight
+members, and said timidly, 'My Lord General! what dost thou bid me do?--
+
+    'Strength serves Reason. Saith the Mahout, when he beats the brazen
+            drum,
+    "Ho! ye elephants, to this work must your mightinesses come."'
+
+'Bull,' answered Karataka, 'thou canst remain in the wood no longer
+unless thou goest directly to lay thyself at our Royal master's imperial
+feet.'
+
+'My Lord,' replied the Bull, 'give me a guarantee of safety, and I will
+go.'
+
+'Bull,' said Karataka, 'thou art foolish; fear nothing--
+
+    "When the King of Chedi cursed him,
+      Krishna scorned to make reply;
+    Lions roar the thunder quiet,
+      Jackals'-yells they let go by."
+
+Our Lord the King will not vouchsafe his anger to thee; knowest thou
+not--
+
+    'Mighty natures war with mighty: when the raging tempests blow,
+    O'er the green rice harmless pass they, but they lay the palm-trees
+            low,'
+
+'So the Jackals, keeping Lusty-life in the rear, went towards the palace
+of King Tawny-hide; where the Rajah received them with much
+graciousness, and bade them sit down.
+
+'Have you seen him?' asked the King.
+
+'We have seen him, your Majesty,' answered Damanaka; 'it is quite as
+your Majesty expected--the creature has enormous strength, and wishes
+to see your Majesty. Will you be seated, Sire, and prepare yourself--it
+will never do to appear alarmed at a noise.'
+
+'Oh, if it was only a noise,' began the Rajah.
+
+'Ah, but the cause, Sire! that was what had to be found out; like the
+secret of Swing-ear the Spirit.'
+
+'And who might Swing-ear be?' asked the King.
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE TERRIBLE BELL
+
+"A goblin, your Majesty," responded Damanaka, "it seemed so, at least,
+to the good people of Brahmapoora. A thief had stolen a bell from the
+city, and was making off with that plunder, and more, into the
+Sri-parvata hills, when he was killed by a tiger. The bell lay in the
+jungle till some monkeys picked it up, and amused themselves by
+constantly ringing it. The townspeople found the bones of the man, and
+heard the noise of the bell all about the hills; so they gave out that
+there was a terrible devil there, whose ears rang like bells as he swung
+them about, and whose delight was to devour men. Every one, accordingly,
+was leaving the town, when a peasant woman named Kar�la, who liked
+belief the better for a little proof, came to the Rajah.
+
+'Highness!' she observed, 'for a consideration I could settle this
+Swing-ear.'
+
+'You could!' exclaimed the Rajah.
+
+'I think so!' repeated the woman.
+
+'Give her a consideration forthwith,' said the Rajah.
+
+"Kar�la, who had her own ideas upon the matter, took the present and set
+out. Being come to the hills, she made a circle, and did homage to
+Gunputtee,[13] without whom nothing prospers. Then, taking some fruit
+she had brought, such as monkeys love extremely, she scattered it up and
+down in the wood, and withdrew to watch. Very soon the monkeys finding
+the fruit, put down the bell, to do justice to it, and the woman picking
+it up, bore it back to the town, where she became an object of uncommon
+veneration. We, indeed," concluded Damanaka, "bring you a Bull instead
+of a bell--your Majesty shall now see him!"
+
+"Thereupon Lusty-life was introduced, and, the interview passing off
+well, he remained many days in the forest on excellent terms with the
+Lion.
+
+'One day another Lion, named 'Stiff-ears,' the brother of King
+Tawny-hide, came to visit him. The King received him with all imaginable
+respect, bade him be seated, and rose from his throne to go and kill
+some beasts for his refreshment.
+
+'May it please your Majesty,' interposed the Bull, 'a deer was slain
+to-day--where is its flesh?'
+
+'Damanaka and his brother know best,' said the King.
+
+'Let us ascertain if there be any,' suggested the Bull.
+
+'It is useless,' said the King, laughing--'they leave none,'
+
+'What!' exclaimed the Bull, 'have those Jackals eaten a whole deer?'
+
+'Eaten it, spoiled it, and given it away,' answered Tawny-hide; 'they
+always do so,'
+
+'And this without your Majesty's sanction?' asked the Bull.
+
+'Oh! certainly not with my sanction,' said the King.
+
+'Then,' exclaimed the Bull, 'it is too bad: and in Ministers too!--
+
+    'Narrow-necked to let out little, big of belly to keep much,
+    As a flagon is--the Vizir of a Sultan should be such.'
+
+'No wealth will stand such waste, your Majesty--
+
+    'He who thinks a minute little, like a fool misuses more;
+    He who counts a cowry nothing, being wealthy, will be poor.'
+
+'A king's treasury, my liege, is the king's life.'
+
+'Good brother,' observed Stiff-ears, who had heard what the Bull said,
+'these Jackals are your Ministers of Home and Foreign Affairs--they
+should not have direction of the Treasury. They are old servants, too,
+and you know the saying--
+
+    'Brahmans, soldiers, these and kinsmen--of the three set none in
+            charge:
+    For the Brahman, tho' you rack him, yields no treasure small or large;
+    And the soldier, being trusted, writes his quittance with his sword,
+    And the kinsman cheats his kindred by the charter of the word;
+    But a servant old in service, worse than any one is thought,
+    Who, by long-tried license fearless, knows his master's anger nought.'
+
+Ministers, my royal brother, are often like obstinate swellings that
+want squeezing, and yours must be kept in order.'
+
+'They are not particularly obedient, I confess,' said Tawny-hide.
+
+'It is very wrong,' replied Stiff-ears; 'and if you will be advised by
+me--as we have banqueted enough to-day--you will appoint this
+grain-eating and sagacious Bull your Superintendent of Stores.'
+
+'It shall be so,' exclaimed the King.
+
+'Lusty-life was accordingly appointed to serve out the provisions, and
+for many days Tawny-hide showed him favor beyond all others in the
+Court.
+
+"Now the Jackals soon found that food was no longer so freely provided
+by this arrangement as before, and they met to consult about it.
+
+'It is all our own fault,' said Damanaka, 'and people must suffer for
+their own mistakes. You know who said--
+
+    "I that could not leave alone
+    'Streak-o'-Gold,' must therefore moan.
+    She that took the House-wife's place
+    Lost the nose from off her face.
+    Take this lesson to thy heart--
+    Fools for folly suffer smart."
+
+'No!' said Karataka, 'how was it?' Damanaka related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE PRINCE AND THE PROCURESS
+
+"In the city of 'Golden-Streets' there reigned a valorous King, named
+Vira-vikrama, whose officer of justice was one day taking away to
+punishment a certain Barber, when he was stopped by a strolling
+mendicant, who held him by the skirts, and cried out, 'Punish not this
+man--punish them that do wrong of their own knowledge.' Being asked his
+meaning, he recited the foregoing verses, and, being still further
+questioned, he told this story--
+
+"I am Prince Kandarpa-ketu, son of the King of Ceylon. Walking one day
+in my summer-garden, I heard a merchant-captain narrating how that out
+at sea, deep under water, on the fourteenth day of the moon, he had seen
+what was like nothing but the famous tree of Paradise, and sitting under
+it a lady of most lustrous beauty, bedecked with strings of pearls like
+Lukshmi herself, reclining, with a lute in her hands, on what appeared
+to be a golden couch crusted all over with precious stones. At once I
+engaged the captain and his ship, and steered to the spot of which he
+told me. On reaching it I beheld the beautiful apparition as he had
+described it, and, transported with the exquisite beauty of the lady, I
+leapt after her into the sea. In a moment I found myself in a city of
+gold; and in an apartment of a golden palace, surrounded by young and
+beautiful girls, I found the Sea-queen. She perceived my approach, and
+sent an attendant with a courteous message to meet me. In reply to my
+questions, I learned that the lady was the Princess Ratnamanjari,
+daughter of the King of All the Spirits--and how she had made a vow that
+whoever should first come to see her golden city, with his own eyes,
+should marry her. So I married her by the form called Gundharva, or
+'Union by mutual consent,' and spent many and happy days in her
+delightful society. One day she took me aside, and said, 'Dear Prince!
+all these delights, and I myself, are thine to enjoy; only that picture
+yonder, of the Fairy Streak-o'-Gold, that thou must never touch!' For a
+long time I observed this injunction; at last, impelled by resistless
+curiosity, I laid my hand on the picture of 'Streak-o'-Gold,' In one
+instant her little foot, lovely as the lotus-blossom, advanced from out
+of the painting, and launched me through sea and air into my own
+country. Since that I have been a miserable wanderer; and passing
+through this city, I chanced to lodge at a Cowkeeper's hut, and saw the
+truth of this Barber's affair. The herdsman returned at night with his
+cattle, and found his wife talking with the wife of the Barber, who is
+no better than a bawd. Enraged at this, the man beat his wife, tied her
+to the milking-post, and fell asleep. In the dead of the night the
+Barber's wife came back, and said to the woman, 'He, whom thou knowest,
+is burnt with the cruel fire of thine absence, and lies nigh to death;
+go therefore and console him, and I will tie myself to the post until
+thou returnest.' This was done, and the Cowkeeper presently awoke. 'Ah!
+thou light thing!' he said jeeringly, 'why dost not thou keep promise,
+and meet thy gallant?' The Barber's wife could make no reply; whereat
+becoming incensed, the man cried out, 'What! dost thou scorn to speak to
+me? I will cut thy nose off!' And so he did, and then lay down to sleep
+again. Very soon the Cowkeeper's wife came back and asked if 'all was
+well.' 'Look at my face!' said the Barber's wife, 'and you will see if
+all is well.' The woman could do nothing but take her place again,
+while the Barber's wife, picking up the severed nose, and at a sad loss
+how to account for it, went to her house. In the morning, before it was
+light, the Barber called to her to bring his box of razors, and she
+bringing one only, he flung it away in a passion. 'Oh, the knave!' she
+cried out, directly, aloud, 'Neighbors, neighbors! he has cut my nose
+off!' and so she took him before the officers. The Cowkeeper, meantime,
+wondering at his wife's patience, made some inquiry about her nose;
+whereto she replied, 'Cruel wretch! thou canst not harm a virtuous
+woman. If Yama and the seven guardians of the world know me chaste, then
+be my face unmaimed!' The herdsman hastened to fetch a light, and
+finding her features unaltered, he flung himself at her feet, and begged
+forgiveness. For,
+
+    'Never tires the fire of burning, never wearies death of slaying,
+    Nor the sea of drinking rivers, nor the bright-eyed of betraying,'
+
+Thereupon the King's officer dismissed Kandarpa-ketu, and did justice by
+setting the Barber free, shaving the head of the Barber's wife, and
+punishing the Cowkeeper's.
+
+'That is my story,' concluded Damanaka, 'and thence I said that we had
+no reason to complain.'
+
+'Well, but we must do something,' said Karataka.
+
+'Yes! How shall we break the friendship of the King with the Bull?'
+asked the other.
+
+'It is very strong,' observed Karataka.
+
+'But we can do it,' replied the other.
+
+    'What force would fail to win, fraud can attain:--
+    The Crow despatched the Serpent by a chain.'
+
+'How did that occur?' asked Karataka.
+
+Damanaka related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE BLACK SNAKE AND THE GOLDEN CHAIN
+
+"A pair of Crows had their abode in a certain tree, the hollow of which
+was occupied by a black snake, who had often devoured their young. The
+Hen-bird, finding herself breeding again, thus addressed her mate:
+'Husband, we must leave this tree; we shall never rear young ones while
+this black snake lives here! You know the saw--
+
+    'From false friends that breed thee strife,
+    From a house with serpents rife,
+    Saucy slaves and brawling wife--
+    Get thee out, to save thy life.'
+
+'My dear,' replied the Crow, 'you need not fear; I have put up with him
+till I am tired. Now I will put an end to him.'
+
+'How can you fight with a great black snake like that?' said the
+Hen-bird.
+
+'Doubt nothing,' answered the other--
+
+    'He that hath sense hath strength; the fool is weak:--
+    The Lion proud died by the Hare so meek,'
+
+'How came that about?' asked the Hen-Crow.
+
+'Thus,' replied her mate:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE LION AND THE OLD HARE
+
+"On the Mandara mountain there lived a Lion named Fierce-of-heart, and
+he was perpetually making massacre of all the wild animals. The thing
+grew so bad that the beasts held a public meeting, and drew up a
+respectful remonstrance to the Lion in these words:--
+
+"Wherefore should your Majesty thus make carnage of us all? If it may
+please you, we ourselves will daily furnish a beast for your Majesty's
+meal." The Lion responded, "If that arrangement is more agreeable to
+you, be it so."; and from that time a beast was allotted to him daily,
+and daily devoured. One day it came to the turn of an old hare to supply
+the royal table, who reflected to himself as he walked along, "I can but
+die, and I will go to my death leisurely."
+
+"Now Fierce-of-heart, the lion, was pinched with hunger, and seeing the
+Hare so approaching he roared out, "How darest thou thus delay in
+coming?"
+
+'Sire,' replied the Hare, 'I am not to blame. I was detained on the road
+by another lion, who exacted an oath from me to return when I should
+have informed your Majesty.'
+
+'Go,' exclaimed King Fierce-of-heart in a rage; 'show me, instantly,
+where this insolent villain of a lion lives.'
+
+"The Hare led the way accordingly till he came to a deep well, whereat
+he stopped, and said, 'Let my lord the King come hither and behold him.'
+The Lion approached, and beheld his own reflection in the water of the
+well, upon which, in his passion, he directly flung himself, and so
+perished."
+
+"I have heard your story," said the Hen-Crow, "but what plan do you
+propose?"
+
+"My dear," replied her mate, "the Rajah's son comes here every day to
+bathe in the stream. When he takes off his gold anklet, and lays it on
+the stone, do thou bring it in thy beak to the hollow of the tree, and
+drop it in there." Shortly after the Prince came, as was his wont, and
+taking off his dress and ornaments, the Hen-Crow did as had been
+determined; and while the servants of the Prince were searching in the
+hollow, there they found the Black Snake, which they at once dispatched.
+
+'Said I not well,' continued Damanaka, 'that stratagem excels force?'
+
+'It was well said,' replied Karataka; 'go! and may thy path be
+prosperous!
+
+'With that Damanaka repaired to the King, and having done homage, thus
+addressed him:--
+
+"Your Majesty, there is a dreadful thing on my mind, and I am come to
+disclose it."
+
+'Speak!' said the King, with much graciousness.
+
+'Your Majesty,' said the Jackal, 'this Bull has been detected of
+treason. To my face he has spoken contemptuously of the three
+prerogatives of the throne,[14] unto which he aspires.'
+
+"At these words King Tawny-hide stood aghast.
+
+'Your Majesty,' continued Damanaka, 'has placed him above us all in the
+Court. Sire! he must be displaced!--
+
+    'Teeth grown loose, and wicked-hearted ministers, and poison-trees,
+    Pluck them by the roots together; 'Tis the thing that giveth ease,'
+
+'Good Jackal,' said the King, after some silence; 'this is indeed
+dreadful; but my regard for the Bull is very great, and it is said--
+
+    'Long-tried friends are friends to cleave to--never leave thou these
+            i' the lurch:--
+    What man shuns the fire as sinful for that once it burned a church?'
+
+'That is written of discarding old servants, may it please your
+Majesty,' observed Damanaka; 'and this Bull is quite a stranger,'
+
+'Wondrous strange!' replied the Lion; 'when I have advanced and
+protected him that he should plot against me!'
+
+'Your Majesty,' said the Jackal, 'knows what has been written--
+
+    'Raise an evil soul to honor, and his evil bents remain;
+    Bind a cur's tail ne'er so straightly, yet it curleth up again.'
+
+    'How, in sooth, should Trust and Honor change the evil nature's root?
+    Though one watered them with nectar, poison-trees bear deadly fruit.'
+
+I have now at least warned your Majesty: if evil comes, the fault is not
+mine,'
+
+'It will not do to condemn the Bull without inquiry,' mused the King;
+then he said aloud, 'shall we admonish him, think you, Damanaka?'
+
+'No, no, Sire!' exclaimed the Jackal, eagerly; 'that would spoil all our
+precautions--
+
+    'Safe within the husk of silence guard the seed of counsel so
+    That it break not--being broken, then the seedling will not grow,'
+
+What is to be done must be done with despatch. After censuring his
+treason, would your Majesty still trust the traitor?--
+
+    'Whoso unto ancient fondness takes again a faithless friend,
+    Like she-mules that die conceiving, in his folly finds his end,'
+
+'But wherein can the Bull injure me?' asked Tawny-hide; 'tell me that!'
+
+'Sire,' replied the Jackal, how can I tell it?--
+
+    'Ask who his friends are, ere you scorn your foe;
+    The Wagtail foiled the sea, that did not so,'
+
+'How could that be?' demanded King Tawny-hide.
+
+'The Jackal related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE WAGTAIL AND THE SEA
+
+"On the shore of the Southern Sea there dwelt a pair of Wagtails. The
+Hen-bird was about to lay, and thus addressed her mate:--
+
+'Husband, we must look about for a fit place to lay my eggs.'
+
+'My dear,' replied the Cock-bird, 'will not this spot do?'
+
+'This spot!' exclaimed the Hen; 'why, the tide overflows it.'
+
+'Good dame,' said the Cock, 'am I so pitiful a fellow that the Sea will
+venture to wash the eggs out of my nest?'
+
+'You are my very good Lord,' replied the Hen, with a laugh; 'but still
+there is a great difference between you and the Sea.'
+
+"Afterwards, however, at the desire of her mate, she consented to lay
+her eggs on the sea-beach. Now the Ocean had overheard all this, and,
+bent upon displaying its strength, it rose and washed away the nest and
+eggs. Overwhelmed with grief, the Hen-bird flew to her mate, and
+cried:--
+
+'Husband, the terrible disaster has occurred! My eggs arc gone!'
+
+'Be of good heart! my Life,' answered he.
+
+"And therewith he called a meeting of fowls, and went with them into the
+presence of Gurud, the Lord of the birds. When the Master of the Mighty
+Wing had listened to their complaint, he conveyed it to the knowledge of
+the God Narayen, who keeps, and kills, and makes alive the world. The
+almighty mandate given, Gurud bound it upon his forehead, and bore it to
+the Ocean, which, so soon as it heard the will of Narayen, at once gave
+back the eggs.
+
+'How, indeed,' concluded Damanaka, 'should I judge of the Bull's power,
+not knowing who supports him?'
+
+'By what signs, then,' asked the King, 'may I conclude him a traitor?'
+
+'If he comes into the presence with his horns lowered for goring, as one
+that expects the fight. That,' replied the Jackal, 'will convince your
+Majesty,'
+
+'Thereupon Damanaka the Jackal withdrew, and betook himself towards the
+Bull, upon perceiving whom he approached slowly, with all the air of one
+greatly distressed.
+
+'Good master Jackal,' said Lusty-life, 'what goes amiss with thee?'
+
+'All goes amiss with such as serve wicked masters,' replied the Jackal.
+
+'But what ails thee?' asked the Bull.
+
+'Alas!' answered the Jackal, 'what can I say in such a strait!--
+
+    'Even as one who grasps a serpent, drowning in the bitter sea,
+    Death to hold and death to loosen--such is life's perplexity.'
+
+'And therewithal the Jackal heaved a deep sigh, and squatted down.
+
+'But, good friend,' said the Bull, 'at least tell me what is in thy
+mind.'
+
+'Bull,' began Damanaka, 'it is a King's secret, and should not be
+spoken; but thou didst come here upon my safeguard, and as I hope for
+the life to come, I will tell thee of what touches thee so nearly.
+Listen!--the heart of the King is turned against thee! he hath sworn
+secretly that he will kill thee and feast upon thy flesh.'
+
+'Then Lusty-life the Bull was sorely troubled, and he fell a-musing
+thus--
+
+    "Woman's love rewards the worthless--kings of knaves exalters be;
+    Wealth attends the selfish niggard, and the cloud rains on the sea."
+
+'Can this be the Jackal's doing?' he reflected. Going with honest folk
+will not make one honest--
+
+    'Many a knave wins fair opinions standing in fair company,
+    As the sooty soorma pleases, lighted by a brilliant eye.'
+
+Then he said aloud, 'wherein can I have angered the King? Do kings hate
+without cause? I can tell nothing, except that there is no happiness
+which abides long--
+
+    'Where the azure lotus[15] blossoms, there the alligators hide;
+    In the sandal-tree are serpents. Pain and pleasure live allied.'
+
+I thought his Majesty noble as the sandal-tree; but that, indeed, is not
+wholly noble--
+
+    'Rich the sandal--yet no part is but a vile thing habits there;
+    Snake and wasp haunt root and blossom; on the boughs sit ape and bear.'
+
+'Bull,' said Damanaka, 'I knew the King of old for one whose tongue was
+honey and whose heart was poison.'
+
+'But how very hard!' said the Bull, 'that he, being a lion, should
+attack me, an innocent eater of grass!'
+
+'It is very hard!' said the Jackal.
+
+'Who can have set him against me?' asked the Bull.
+
+'Being so, it cannot be bettered,' replied the Jackal, 'whoever did it--
+
+    'As a bracelet of crystal, once broke, is not mended;
+    So the favor of princes, once altered, is ended.'
+
+'Yes,' said the Bull, 'and a king incensed is terrible--
+
+    'Wrath of kings, and rage of lightning--both be very full of dread;
+    But one falls on one man only--one strikes many victims dead,'
+
+Still, I can but die--and I will die fighting! When death is certain,
+and no hope left but in battle, that is the time for war,'
+
+'It is so,' said the Jackal.
+
+'Having weighed all this, Lusty-life inquired of the Jackal by what
+signs he might conclude the King's hostile intentions.
+
+'If he glowers upon thee,' answered Damanaka, 'and awaits thee with ears
+pricked, tail stiffened, paw upraised, and muzzle agape, then thou
+mayest get thee to thy weapons like a Bull of spirit, for
+
+    'All men scorn the soulless coward who his manhood doth forget:--
+    On a lifeless heap of ashes fearlessly the foot is set,'
+
+'Then Damanaka the Jackal returned to the Lion, and said to him:--
+
+'If it please your Majesty, the traitor is now coming; let your Majesty
+be on your guard, with ears pricked and paw upraised.'
+
+'The Bull meanwhile approached, and observing the hostile attitude of
+King Tawny-hide, he also lowered his horns, and prepared for the combat.
+A terrible battle ensued, and at the last King Tawny-hide slew
+Lusty-life the Bull. Now when the Bull was dead, the Lion was very
+sorrowful, and as he sat on his throne lamenting, he said--
+
+'I repent me of this deed!--
+
+    'As when an Elephant's life-blood is spilt,
+    Another hath the spoils--mine is the guilt.'
+
+'Sire,' replied the Jackal, 'a King over-merciful is like a Brahman
+that eats all things equally. May all your Majesty's enemies perish as
+did this Bull.'
+
+"Thus endeth," said the Sage Vishnu-Sarman, "the 'Parting of Friends.'"
+
+"We are gratified exceedingly thereby," replied the Sons of the King.
+
+"Let me then close it thus," said their Preceptor--
+
+      'So be friendship never parted,
+      But among the evil-hearted;
+      Time's sure step drag, soon or later,
+      To his judgment, such a Traitor;
+      Lady Lukshmi, of her grace,
+      Grant good fortune to this place;
+    And you, Royal boys! and boys of times to be
+    In this fair fable-garden wander free.'
+
+
+[12] The white umbrella borne above the heads of Indian rajahs.
+
+[13] The deity of prudence.
+
+[14] Regal authority derives its rights from three sources: Power,
+Prescription or continuance, and Wisdom.
+
+[15] The lotus resembles the water-lily, but is more varied in form and
+color.
+
+
+
+
+WAR
+
+
+When the next day of instruction was come, the King's sons spake to the
+Sage, Vishnu-Sarman.
+
+"Master," said they, "we are Princes, and the sons of Princes, and we
+earnestly desire to hear thee discourse upon War."
+
+"I am to speak on what shall please you," replied Vishnu-Sarman. "Hear
+now, therefore, of 'War,' whose opening is thus:--
+
+    'Between the peoples of Peacock and Swan[16]
+    War raged; and evenly the contest ran,
+    Until the Swans to trust the Crows began.'
+
+'And how was all that?' asked the sons of the Rajah. Vishnu-Sarman
+proceeded to relate--
+
+
+THE BATTLE OF THE SWANS AND PEACOCKS
+
+"In the Isle of Camphor there is a lake called 'Lotus-water,' and
+therein a Swan-Royal, named 'Silver-sides,' had his residence. The birds
+of the marsh and the mere had elected him King, in full council of all
+the fowls--for a people with no ruler is like a ship that is without a
+helmsman. One day King Silver-sides, with his courtiers, was quietly
+reposing on a couch of well-spread lotus-blossoms, when a Crane, named
+'Long-bill,' who had just arrived from foreign parts, entered the
+presence with an obeisance, and sat down.
+
+'What news from abroad, Long-bill?' asked his Majesty.
+
+'Great news, may it please you,' answered the Crane, 'and therefore have
+I hastened hither. Will your Majesty hear me?'
+
+'Speak!' said King Silver-sides.
+
+'You must know, my Liege,' began the Crane, 'that over all the birds of
+the Vindhya mountains in Jambudwipa a Peacock is King, and his name is
+'Jewel-plume,' I was looking for food about a certain burnt jungle
+there, when some of his retainers discovered me, and asked my name and
+country. 'I am a vassal of King Silver-sides, Lord of the Island of
+Camphor,' I replied, 'and I am travelling in foreign lands for my
+pleasure.' Upon that the birds asked me which country, my own or theirs,
+and which King, appeared to me superior. 'How can you ask?' I replied;
+'the island of Camphor is, as it were, Heaven itself, and its King a
+heaven-born ruler. To dwellers in a barren land like yours how can I
+describe them? Come for yourselves, and see the country where I live.'
+Thereupon, your Majesty, the birds were exceedingly offended, as one
+might expect--
+
+    'Simple milk, when serpents drink it, straightway into venom turns;
+    And a fool who heareth counsel all the wisdom of it spurns.'
+
+For, indeed, no reflecting person wastes time in admonishing
+blockheads--
+
+    'The birds that took the apes to teaching,
+    Lost eggs and nests in pay for preaching.'
+
+'How did that befall?' asked the King.
+
+The Crane related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE WEAVER-BIRDS AND THE MONKEYS
+
+"In a nullah that leads down to the Nerbudda river there stood a large
+silk-cotton tree, where a colony of weaver-birds had built their hanging
+nests, and lived snugly in them, whatever the weather. It was in the
+rainy season, when the heavens are overlaid with clouds like
+indigo-sheets, and a tremendous storm of water was falling. The birds
+looked out from their nests, and saw some monkeys, shivering and starved
+with the cold, standing under a tree. 'Twit! twit! you Monkeys,' they
+began to chirrup. 'Listen to us!--
+
+    'With beaks we built these nests, of fibres scattered;
+    You that have hands and feet, build, or be spattered.'
+
+On hearing that the Monkeys were by no means pleased. 'Ho! ho!' said
+they, 'the Birds in their snug nests are jeering at us; wait till the
+rain is over,' Accordingly, so soon as the weather mended, the Monkeys
+climbed into the tree, and broke all the birds' eggs and demolished
+every nest. I ought to have known better,' concluded the Crane, 'than to
+have wasted my suggestions on King Jewel-plume's creatures.'
+
+'But what did they say?' asked Silver-sides.
+
+'They said, Rajah,' answered the Crane, 'who made that Swan of thine a
+King?'
+
+'And what was your reply?' asked Silver-sides.
+
+'I demanded,' replied the Crane, 'who made a King of that Peacock of
+theirs. Thereupon they were ready to kill me for rage; but I displayed
+my very best valor. Is it not written--
+
+    'A modest manner fits a maid,
+      And Patience is a man's adorning;
+    But brides may kiss, nor do amiss,
+      And men may draw, at scathe and scorning.'
+
+'Yet a man should measure his own strength first,' said the Rajah,
+smiling; 'how did you fare against King Jewel-plume's fellows?'
+
+'Very scurvily,' replied Long-bill. "Thou rascal Crane," they cried,
+"dost thou feed on his soil, and revile our Sovereign? That is past
+bearing!" And thereat they all pecked at me. Then they began again:
+"Thou thick-skulled Crane! that King of thine is a goose--a web-footed
+lord of littleness--and thou art but a frog in a well to bid us serve
+him--- him forsooth!--
+
+    'Serving narrow-minded masters dwarfs high natures to their size:--
+    Seen before a convex mirror, elephants do show as mice.'
+
+Bad kings are only strong enough to spoil good vassals--as a fiction
+once was mightier than a herd of elephants. You know it, don't you?--
+
+    'Mighty may prove things insignificant:--
+    A tale of moonshine turned an elephant.'
+
+'No! how was that?' I asked.
+
+The birds related--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE OLD HARE AND THE ELEPHANTS
+
+"Once on a time, very little rain had fallen in the due season; and the
+Elephants being oppressed with thirst, thus accosted their
+leader:--'Master, how are we to live? The small creatures find something
+to wash in, but we cannot, and we are half dead in consequence; whither
+shall we go then, and what shall we do?' Upon that the King of the
+Elephants led them away a little space; and showed them a beautiful pool
+of crystal water, where they took their ease. Now it chanced that a
+company of Hares resided on the banks of the pool, and the going and
+coming of the elephants trampled many of them to death, till one of
+their number named Hard-head grumbled out, 'This troop will be coming
+here to water every day, and every one of our family will be crushed.'
+'Do not disquiet yourself,' said an old buck named Good-speed, 'I will
+contrive to avert it,' and so saying, he set off, bethinking himself on
+his way how he should approach and accost a herd of elephants; for,
+
+    'Elephants destroy by touching, snakes with point of tooth beguile;
+    Kings by favor kill, and traitors murder with a fatal smile.'
+
+'I will get on the top of a hill,' he thought, 'and address the
+Elephants thence.'
+
+"This being done, and the Lord of the herd perceiving him, it was asked
+of the Hare, 'Who art thou? and whence comest thou?'
+
+'I am an ambassador from his Godship the Moon,' replied Good-speed.
+
+'State your business,' said the Elephant-king.
+
+'Sire,' began the Hare, 'an ambassador speaks the truth safely by
+charter of his name. Thus saith the Moon, then: "These hares were the
+guardians of my pool, and thine elephants in coming thither have scared
+them away. This is not well. Am I not Sasanka, whose banner bears a
+hare, and are not these hares my votaries?"'
+
+'Please your worship,' said the Elephant-king with much trepidation, 'we
+knew nothing of this; we will go there no more.'
+
+'It were well,' said the sham ambassador, 'that you first made your
+apologies to the Divinity, who is quaking with rage in his pool, and
+then went about your business.'
+
+'We will do so,' replied the Elephant with meekness; and being led by
+night to the pool, in the ripples of which the image of the Moon was
+quivering, the herd made their prostrations; the Hare explaining to the
+Moon that their fault was done in ignorance, and thereupon they got
+their dismissal.'
+
+'Nay,' I said, 'my Sovereign is no fiction, but a great King and a
+noble, and one that might govern the Three Worlds, much more a kingdom,'
+
+'Thou shalt talk thy treason in the presence,' they cried; and therewith
+I was dragged before King Jewel-plume.
+
+'Who is this?' asked the Rajah.
+
+'He is a servant of King Silver-sides, of the Island of Camphor,' they
+replied; 'and he slights your Majesty, on your Majesty's own land.'
+
+'Sirrah Crane!' said the Prime Minister, a Vulture, 'who is chief
+officer in that court?'
+
+'A Brahmany Goose,' I answered, 'named "Know-all"; and he does know
+every possible science.'
+
+'Sire,' broke in a Parrot, 'this Camphor-isle and the rest are poor
+places, and belong to Jambudwipa. Your Majesty has but to plant the
+royal foot upon them.'
+
+'Oh! of course,' said the King.
+
+'Nay,' said I, 'if talking makes your Majesty King of Camphor-island, my
+Liege may be lord of Jambudwipa by a better title.'
+
+'And that?' said the Parrot.
+
+'Is fighting!' I responded.
+
+'Good!' said the King, with a smile; 'bid your people prepare for war.'
+
+'Not so,' I replied; 'but send your own ambassador.'
+
+'Who will bear the message?' asked the Rajah. 'He should be loyal,
+dexterous, and bold.'
+
+'And virtuous,' said the Vulture, 'and therefore a Brahman:--
+
+    'Better Virtue marked a herald than that noble blood should deck;
+    Shiva reigns forever Shiva while the sea-wave stains his neck.'
+
+'Then let the Parrot be appointed,' said the Rajah.
+
+'I am your Majesty's humble servant,' replied the Parrot; 'but this
+Crane is a bad character, and with the bad I never like to travel. The
+ten-headed Ravana carried off the wife of Ramchundra! It does not do,
+
+    'With evil people neither stay nor go;
+    The Heron died for being with the Crow.'
+
+'How did that befall?' asked the King. The Parrot related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE HERON AND THE CROW
+
+'The high-road to Oogein is a very unshaded and sultry one; but there
+stands upon it one large Peepul-tree, and therein a Crow and a Heron had
+their residence together. It was in the hot weather that a tired
+traveller passed that way, and, for the sake of the shade, he laid his
+bow and arrows down, and dropped asleep under the tree. Before long the
+shadow of the tree shifted, and left his face exposed to the glare;
+which the Heron perceiving, like the kindly bird he was, perched on the
+Peepul-tree, and spread his wings out so as to cast a shadow on the
+traveller's face. There the poor fellow, weary with his travel,
+continued to sleep soundly, and snored away comfortably with open mouth.
+The sight of his enjoyment was too much for the malevolent Crow, who,
+perching over him, dropped an unwelcome morsel into the sleeper's mouth,
+and straightway flew off. The traveller, starting from his slumber,
+looked about, and, seeing no bird but the Heron, he fitted an arrow and
+shot him dead. No!' concluded the Parrot, 'I like the society of honest
+folk.'
+
+'But why these words, my brother?' I said; 'his Majesty's herald is to
+me even as his Majesty.'
+
+'Very fine!' replied the Parrot; 'but--
+
+    'Kindly courtesies that issue from a smiling villain's mouth
+    Serve to startle, like a flower blossoming in time of drouth.'
+
+Needs must that thou art a bad man; for by thy talk war will have
+arisen, which a little conciliation had averted:--
+
+    'Conciliation!--weapon of the wise!
+    Wheedled therewith, by woman's quick device,
+    The Wheelwright let his ears betray his eyes.'
+
+'How came that about?' asked the King. The Parrot related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE APPEASED WHEELWRIGHT
+
+"There was a Wheelwright in Shri-nuggur, whose name was 'Heavy-head,' He
+had good reason to suspect the infidelity of his wife, but he had no
+absolute proof of it. One day he gave out that he should go to a
+neighboring town, and he started accordingly; but he went a very little
+way, and then returning, hid himself in his wife's chamber. She being
+quite satisfied that he was really gone away, invited her gallant to
+pass the evening with her, and began to spend it with him in
+unrestrained freedom. Presently, by chance, she detected the presence of
+her husband, and her manner instantly changed.
+
+'Life of my soul! what ails you?' said her lover; 'you are quite dull
+to-night.'
+
+'I am dull,' she replied, 'because the lord of my life is gone. Without
+my husband the town is a wilderness. Who knows what may befall him, and
+whether he will have a nice supper?'
+
+'Trouble thyself no more about the quarrelsome dullard,' said her
+gallant.
+
+'Dullard, quotha!' exclaimed the wife. 'What matter what he is, since he
+is my all? Knowest thou not--
+
+    'Of the wife the lord is jewel, though no gems upon her beam;
+    Lacking him, she lacks adornment, howsoe'er her jewels gleam?'
+
+Thou, and the like of thee, may serve a whim, as we chew a betel-leaf
+and trifle with a flower; but my husband is my master, and can do with
+me as he will. My life is wrapped up in him--and when he dies, alas! I
+will certainly die too. Is it not plainly said--
+
+    'Hairs three-crore, and half-a-crore hairs, on a man so many grow--
+    And so many years to Swerga shall the true wife surely go?'
+
+And better still is promised; as herein--
+
+    'When the faithful wife,[17] embracing tenderly her husband dead,
+    Mounts the blazing pile beside him, as it were the bridal-bed;
+    Though his sins were twenty thousand, twenty thousand times o'er-told,
+    She shall bring his soul to splendor, for her love so large and bold.'
+
+All this the Wheelwright heard. 'What a lucky fellow I am,' he thought,
+'to have a wife so virtuous,' and rushing from his place of concealment,
+he exclaimed in ecstasy to his wife's gallant, 'Sir I saw you ever truer
+wife than mine?'
+
+'When the story was concluded,' said Long-bill, 'the King, with a
+gracious gift of food, sent me off before the Parrot; but he is coming
+after me, and it is now for your Majesty to determine as it shall please
+you.'
+
+'My Liege,' observed the Brahmany-goose with a sneer, 'the Crane has
+done the King's business in foreign parts to the best of his power,
+which is that of a fool.'
+
+"Let the past pass," replied the King, "and take thought for the
+present."
+
+"Be it in secret, then, your Majesty," said the Brahmany-goose--
+
+    'Counsel unto six ears spoken, unto all is notified:--
+    When a King holds consultation, let it be with one beside,'
+
+Thereupon all withdrew, but the Rajah and the Minister.
+
+'What think you?' said Silver-sides.
+
+'That the Crane has been employed to bring this about,' replied the
+other.
+
+'What shall we do?' asked the King.
+
+'Despatch two spies--the first to inform and send back the other, and
+make us know the enemy's strength or weakness. They must be such as can
+travel by land and water, so the Crane will serve for one, and we will
+keep his family in pledge at the King's gate. The other must be a very
+reserved character; as it is said--
+
+    'Sick men are for skilful leeches--prodigals for prisoning--
+    Fools for teachers--and the man who keeps a secret, for a King,'
+
+'I know such a one,' said his Majesty, after a pause.
+
+'It is half the victory,' responded the Minister.
+
+At this juncture a chamberlain entered with a profound obeisance, and
+announced the arrival from Jambudwipa of the Parrot.
+
+'Let him be shown to a reception-room,' commanded the Goose, in reply to
+a look from the King. 'He shall presently have audience.'
+
+'War is pronounced, then,' said the King, as the attendant withdrew.
+
+'It is offered, my Liege; but must not be rashly accepted,' replied the
+other--
+
+    'With gift, craft, promise, cause thy foe to yield;
+    When these have failed thee, challenge him a-field.'
+
+To gain time for expedients is the first point. Expedients are good for
+great and little matters equally, like
+
+    'The subtle wash of waves, that smoothly pass,
+    But lay the tree as lowly as the grass.'
+
+Let his Excellency the Parrot, then, be cajoled and detained here, while
+we place our fort in condition to be useful. Is it not said--
+
+    'Ten true bowmen on a rampart fifty's onset may sustain;
+    Fortalices keep a country more than armies in the plain?'
+
+And your Majesty,' continued the Goose, 'will recall the points of a
+good fortress--
+
+    'Build it strong, and build it spacious, with an entry and retreat;
+    Store it well with wood and water, fill its garners full with wheat.'
+
+'Whom, then, shall we entrust with this work?' asked King Silver-sides.
+
+'The Paddy-bird[18] is a good bird, and a skilful,' replied his
+Minister.
+
+'Let him be summoned!' said the King. And upon the entrance of the
+Paddy-bird, the superintendence of the fortress was committed to him,
+and accepted with a low prostration.
+
+'As to the fort, Sire!' remarked the Paddy-bird, 'it exists already in
+yonder large pool; the thing is to store the island in the middle of it
+with provisions--
+
+    'Gems will no man's life sustain;
+    Best of gold is golden grain.'
+
+'Good!' said King Silver-sides; 'let it be looked to.' Thereupon, as the
+Paddy-bird was retiring, the Usher entered again, and making
+prostration, said: 'May it please your Majesty, the King of all the
+Crows, Night-cloud by name, has just arrived from Singhala-dwipa, and
+desires to lay his homage at your Majesty's feet.'
+
+'He is a wise bird, and a far-travelled,' said the King; 'I think we
+must give him audience.'
+
+Nevertheless, Sire,' interrupted the Goose, 'we must not forget that he
+is a land-bird, and therefore not to be received as a water-fowl. Your
+royal memory doubtless retains the story of
+
+    'The Jackal's fate, who being colored blue,
+    Leaving his party, left his own life too.'
+
+'No! How was that?' asked King Silver-sides. The Goose related--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE DYED JACKAL
+
+"A Jackal once on a time, as he was prowling about the suburbs of a
+town, slipped into an indigo-tank; and not being able to get out he laid
+himself down so as to be taken for dead. The dyer presently coming and
+finding what seemed a dead Jackal, carried him into the jungle and then
+flung him away. Left to himself, the Jackal found his natural color
+changed to a splendid blue. 'Really,' he reflected, 'I am now of a most
+magnificent tint; why should I not make it conduce to my elevation?'
+With this view, he assembled the other Jackals, and thus harangued
+them:--
+
+'Good people, the Goddess of the Wood, with her own divine hand, and
+with every magical herb of the forest, has anointed me King. Behold the
+complexion of royalty!--and henceforward transact nothing without my
+imperial permission."
+
+"The Jackals, overcome by so distinguished a color, could do nothing but
+prostrate themselves and promise obedience. His reign, thus begun,
+extended in time to the lions and tigers; and with these high-born
+attendants he allowed himself to despise the Jackals, keeping his own
+kindred at a distance, as though ashamed of them. The Jackals were
+indignant, but an old beast of their number thus consoled them:--
+
+"Leave the impudent fellow to me. I will contrive his ruin. These tigers
+and the rest think him a King, because he is colored blue; we must show
+them his true colors. Do this, now!--in the evening-time come close
+about him, and set up a great yell together--he is sure to join in, as
+he used to do--
+
+    'Hard it is to conquer nature: if a dog were made a King,
+    Mid the coronation trumpets, he would gnaw his sandal-string.'
+
+And when he yells the Tigers will know him for a Jackal and fall upon
+him.'
+
+'The thing befell exactly so, and the Jackal,' concluded the Minister,
+'met the fate of one who leaves his proper party.'
+
+'Still,' said the King, 'the Crow has come a long way, and we might see
+him, I think.'
+
+'Admit the Parrot first, Sire,' said the Goose; 'the fort has been put
+in order and the spy despatched.'
+
+"Thereupon a Court was called, and the Parrot introduced, followed by
+Night-cloud, the Crow. A seat was offered to the parrot, who took it,
+and, with his beak in the air, thus delivered his mission:--
+
+'King Silver-sides!--My master, the King Jewel-plume, Lord of Lords,
+bids thee, if life and lands be dear to thee, to come and make homage at
+his august feet; and failing this to get thee gone from Camphor-island.'
+
+'S'death!' exclaimed the Rajah, 'is there none that will silence this
+traitor?'
+
+'Give the sign, your Majesty,' said the Crow, starting up, 'and I will
+despatch this audacious bird.'
+
+'Sir,' said the Goose, 'be calm! and Sire, deign to listen--
+
+    ''Tis no Council where no Sage is--'tis no Sage that fears not Law;
+    'Tis no Law which Truth confirms not--'tis no Truth which Fear can
+            awe.'
+
+An ambassador must speak unthreatened--
+
+    'Though base be the Herald, nor hinder nor let,
+      For the mouth of a king is he;
+    The sword may be whet, and the battle set,
+      But the word of his message is free.'
+
+Thereat the Rajah and Night-cloud resumed their composure; and the
+Parrot took his departure, escorted by the Minister, and presented with
+complimentary gifts of gold and jewels. On reaching the palace of
+Jewel-plume, the King demanded his tidings, and inquired of the country
+he had visited.
+
+'War must be prepared, may it please you,' said the Parrot: 'the
+country is a country of Paradise.'
+
+'Prepare for war, then!' said the King.
+
+'We must not enter on it in the face of destiny,' interposed the
+Vulture-Minister, whose title was 'Far-sight.'
+
+'Let the Astrologer then discover a favorable conjuncture for the
+expedition, and let my forces be reviewed meantime,' said the King.
+
+'We must not march without great circumspection,' observed Far-sight.
+
+'Minister!' exclaimed the King, 'you chafe me. Say, however, with what
+force we should set out.'
+
+'It should be well selected, rather than unwieldy,' replied the
+Vulture--
+
+    'Better few and chosen fighters than of shaven crowns a host,
+    For in headlong flight confounded, with the base the brave are lost.'
+
+And its commanders must be judiciously appointed; for it is said--
+
+    'Ever absent, harsh, unjustly portioning the captured prey--
+    These, and cold or laggard leaders make a host to melt away.'
+
+'Ah!' interrupted the Rajah, 'what need of so much talk? We will go,
+and, if V�chaspati please, we will conquer.'
+
+Shortly afterwards the Spy returned to Camphor-island. 'King
+Silver-sides,' he cried, 'the Rajah, Jewel-plume, is on his way hither,
+and has reached the Ghauts. Let the fort be manned, for that Vulture is
+a great minister; and I have learned, too, that there is one among us
+who is in his pay.'
+
+'King!' said the Goose, 'that must be the Crow.'
+
+'But whence, then, did he show such willingness to punish the Parrot?'
+objected his Majesty. 'Besides, war was declared long after the Crow
+came to Court.'
+
+'I misdoubt him,' said the Minister, 'because he is a stranger.'
+
+'But strangers surely may be well-disposed,' replied the King. 'How say
+the books?--
+
+    'Kind is kin, howe'er a stranger--kin unkind is stranger shown;
+    Sores hurt, though the body breeds them--drugs relieve, though
+            desert-grown.'
+
+Have you never heard of King Sudraka and the unknown Servant, who gave
+his son's life for the King?
+
+'Never,' answered the Goose.
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE FAITHFUL RAJPOOT
+
+"I will tell you the tale," said the King, "as I heard it from
+'Lilyflower,' daughter of the Flamingo 'White-flag,' of whom I was once
+very fond:--A soldier presented himself one morning at King Sudraka's
+gate, and bade the porter procure an audience for 'Vira-vara, a
+Rajpoot,'[19] who sought employment. Being admitted to the presence, he
+thus addressed the King:--
+
+'If your Highness needs an attendant, behold one!'
+
+'What pay do you ask?' inquired the King.
+
+'Five hundred pieces of gold a day,' said Vira-vara.
+
+'And your accoutrements?' asked the King.
+
+'Are these two arms, and this sabre, which serve for a third,' said
+Vira-vara, rolling up his sleeve.
+
+'I cannot entertain you,' rejoined his Majesty; and thereupon the
+Rajpoot made salaam, and withdrew. Then said the Ministers, 'If it
+please your Majesty, the stipend is excessive, but give him pay for four
+days, and see wherein he may deserve it.' Accordingly, the Rajpoot was
+recalled, and received wages for four days, with the complimentary
+betel.--Ah! the rare betel! Truly say the wise of it--
+
+    'Betel-nut is bitter, hot, sweet, spicy, binding, alkaline--
+    A demulcent--an astringent--foe to evils intestine;
+    Giving to the breath a fragrance--to the lips a crimson red;
+    A detergent, and a kindler of Love's flame that lieth dead.
+    Praise the gods for the good Betel!--these be thirteen virtues given,
+    Hard to meet in one thing blended, even in their happy heaven.'
+
+'Now the King narrowly watched the spending of Vira-vara's pay, and
+discovered that he bestowed half in the service of the Gods and the
+support of Brahmans, a fourth part in relieving the poor, and reserved a
+fourth for his sustenance and recreation. This daily division made, he
+would take his stand with his sabre at the gate of the palace; retiring
+only upon receiving the royal permission.
+
+'It was on the fourteenth night of the dark half of the month that King
+Sudraka heard below a sound of passionate sobbing. 'Ho! there,' he
+cried, 'who waits at the gate?'
+
+'I,' replied Vira-vara, 'may it please you.'
+
+'Go and learn what means this weeping,' said the King.
+
+'I go, your Majesty,' answered the Rajpoot, and therewith departed.
+
+'No sooner was he gone than the King repented him of sending one man
+alone into a night so dark that a bodkin might pierce a hole in it, and
+girding on his scimitar, he followed his guard beyond the city gates.
+When Vira-vara had gone thus far he encountered a beautiful and
+splendidly dressed lady who was weeping bitterly; and accosting her, he
+requested to know her name, and why she thus lamented.
+
+'I am the Fortune of the King Sudraka,' answered she; 'a long while I
+have lived happily in the shadow of his arm; but on the third day he
+will die, and I must depart, and therefore lament I.'
+
+'Can nothing serve, Divine Lady, to prolong thy stay?' asked the
+Rajpoot.
+
+'It might be,' replied the Spirit, 'if thou shouldst cut off the head of
+thy first-born Shaktidhar, that hath on his body the thirty-two
+auspicious marks of greatness. Were his head offered to the all-helpful
+Durga, the Rajah should live a hundred years, and I might tarry beside
+him.'
+
+'So speaking, she disappeared, and Vira-vara retraced his steps to his
+own house and awoke his wife and son. They arose, and listened with
+attention until Vira-vara had repeated all the words of the vision. When
+he had finished, Shaktidhar exclaimed, 'I am thrice happy to be able to
+save the state of the King. Kill me, my father, and linger not; to give
+my life in such a cause is good indeed,' 'Yes,' said the Mother, 'it is
+good, and worthy of our blood; how else should we deserve the King's
+pay?' Being thus agreed, they repaired together at once to the temple of
+the Goddess Durga, and having paid their devotions and entreated the
+favor of the deity on behalf of the King, Vira-vara struck off his son's
+head, and laid it as an offering upon the shrine. That done, Vira-vara
+said, 'My service to the King is accomplished, and life without my boy
+is but a burden,' and therewith he plunged his sword in his own breast
+and fell dead. Overpowered with grief for her husband and child, the
+mother also withdrew the twice-blooded weapon, and slew herself with it
+on the bodies of Vira-vara and Shaktidhar.
+
+'All this was heard and seen by King Sudraka, and he stood aghast at the
+sad sight. 'Woe is me!' he exclaimed--
+
+    'Kings may come, and Kings may go;
+    What was I, to bring these low?
+    Souls so noble, slain for me,
+    Were not, and will never be!'
+
+What reck I of my realm, having lost these?' and thereat he drew his
+scimitar to take his own life also. At that moment there appeared to him
+the Goddess, who is Mistress of all men's fortunes. 'Son,' said she,
+staying his lifted hand, 'forbear thy rash purpose, and bethink thee of
+thy kingdom.'
+
+"The Rajah fell prostrate before her, and cried--'O Goddess! I am done
+with life and wealth and kingdom! If thou hast compassion on me, let my
+death restore these faithful ones to life; anywise I follow the path
+they have marked,' 'Son,' replied the Goddess, 'thine affection is
+pleasing to me: be it as thou wilt! The Rajpoot and his house shall be
+rendered alive to thee.' Then the King departed, and presently saw
+Vira-vara return, and take up again his station as before at the
+palace-gate.
+
+'Ho! there, Vira-vara!' cried the King, 'what meant the weeping?'
+
+'Let your Majesty rest well!' answered the Rajpoot, 'it was a woman who
+wept, and disappeared on my approach.' This answer completed the Rajah's
+astonishment and delight; for we know--
+
+    'He is brave whose tongue is silent of the trophies of his sword;
+    He is great whose quiet bearing marks his greatness well assured.'
+
+So when the day was come, he called a full council, and, declaring
+therein all the events of the night, he invested the faithful guard with
+the sovereignty of the Carnatic.
+
+"Thus, then," concluded King Silver-sides, "in entertaining strangers a
+man may add to his friends."
+
+"It may well be," replied the Goose; "but a Minister should advise what
+is expedient, and not what is pleasing in sentiment:--
+
+    'When the Priest, the Leech, the Vizir of a King his flatterers be,
+    Very soon the King will part with health, and wealth, and piety.'
+
+'Let it pass, then,' said Silver-sides, 'and turn we to the matter in
+hand. King Jewel-plume is even now pitched under the Ghauts. What think
+you?'
+
+'That we shall vanquish him,' replied the Goose; 'for he disregards, as
+I learn, the counsel of that great statesman, the Vulture Far-sight; and
+the wise have said--
+
+    'Merciless, or money-loving, deaf to counsel, false of faith,
+    Thoughtless, spiritless, or careless, changing course with every
+            breath,
+    Or the man who scorns his rival--if a prince should choose a foe,
+    Ripe for meeting and defeating, certes he would choose him so.
+
+He is marching without due preparation; let us send the Paddy-bird at
+the head of a force and attack him on his march."
+
+Accordingly the Paddy-bird, setting out with a force of water-fowl, fell
+upon the host of the Peacock-king, and did immense execution.
+Disheartened thereat, King Jewel-plume summoned Far-sight, his Minister,
+and acknowledged to him his precipitation.
+
+'Wherefore do you abandon us, my father?' he said. 'Correct for us what
+has been done amiss.
+
+'My Liege,' replied the Vulture, 'it has been well observed--
+
+    'By the valorous and unskilful great achievements are not wrought;
+    Courage, led by careful Prudence, unto highest ends is brought.'
+
+You have set Strength in the seat of Counsel, your Majesty, and he hath
+clumsily spoiled your plans. How indeed could it fall otherwise? for--
+
+    'Grief kills gladness, winter summer, midnight-gloom the light of day,
+    Kindnesses ingratitude, and pleasant friends drive pain away;
+    Each ends each, but none of other surer conquerors can be
+    Than Impolicy of Fortune--of Misfortune Policy.'
+
+I have said to myself, 'My Prince's understanding is affected--how else
+would he obscure the moonlight of policy with the night-vapors of talk;'
+in such a mood I cannot help him--
+
+    'Wisdom answers all who ask her, but a fool she cannot aid;
+    Blind men in the faithful mirror see not their reflection made.'
+
+And therefore I have been absent.'
+
+'My father!' said the King, joining his palms in respect, 'mine is all
+the fault! Pardon it, and instruct me how to withdraw my army without
+further loss.'
+
+Then the Vulture's anger melted, and he reflected--
+
+    'Where the Gods are, or thy Guru--in the face of Pain and Age,
+    Cattle, Brahmans, Kings, and Children--reverently curb thy rage.'
+
+And with a benignant smile, he answered the King thus, 'Be of good
+heart, my Liege; thou shalt not only bring the host back safely, but
+thou shalt first destroy the castle of King Silver-sides.'
+
+'How can that be, with my diminished forces?' asked the Rajah.
+
+'It will come to pass!' answered the Vulture. 'Break up to-day for the
+blockade of the fort.'
+
+Now, when this was reported by the spies to King Silver-sides, he was
+greatly alarmed. 'Good Goose!' said he, 'what is to be done? Here is the
+King of the Peacocks at hand, to blockade us--by his Minister's advice,
+too.'
+
+'Sire,' replied the Goose, 'separate the efficient and the inefficient
+in your force; and stimulate the loyalty of the first, with a royal
+bounty of gold and dresses, as each may seem to merit. Now is the time
+for it--
+
+    'Oh, my Prince! on eight occasions prodigality is none--
+    In the solemn sacrificing, at the wedding of a son,
+    When the glittering treasure given makes the proud invader bleed,
+    Or its lustre bringeth comfort to the people in their need,
+    Or when kinsmen are to succor, or a worthy work to end,
+    Or to do a mistress honor, or to welcome back a friend.'
+
+'But is this expenditure needed?' said the King.
+
+'It is needed, my Liege,' said the Goose, 'and it befits a Monarch;
+for--
+
+    'Truth, munificence, and valor, are the virtues of a King;
+    Royalty, devoid of either, sinks to a rejected thing.'
+
+'Let it be incurred then!' replied the King.
+
+At this moment Night-cloud, the Crow, made his appearance. 'Deign me one
+regard, Sire,' said he, 'the insolent enemy is at our gates; let your
+Majesty give the word, and I will go forth and show my valor and
+devotion to your Crown.'
+
+'It were better to keep our cover,' said the Goose. 'Wherefore else
+builded we this fortalice? Is it not said?--
+
+    'Hold thy vantage!--alligators on the land make none afraid;
+    And the lion's but a jackal that hath left his forest-shade.'
+
+But go, your Majesty, and encourage our warriors." Thereupon they
+repaired to the Gateway of the Fort, and all day the battle raged there.
+
+It was the morning after, when King Jewel-plume spake thus to his
+Minister the Vulture--'Good sir, shall thy promise be kept to us?'
+
+'It shall be kept, your Majesty,' replied the Vulture; 'storm the fort!'
+
+'We will storm it!' said the Peacock-king. The sun was not well-risen
+accordingly when the attack was made, and there arose hot fighting at
+all the four gates. It was then that the traitorous Crows, headed by
+their Monarch, Night-cloud, put fire to every dwelling in the citadel,
+and raised a shout of 'The Fort is taken! it is taken!' At this terrible
+sound the soldiers of the Swan-king forsook their posts, and plunged
+into the pool.
+
+Not thus King Silver-sides:--retiring coolly before the foe, with his
+General the Paddy-bird, he was cut off and encircled by the troopers of
+King Jewel-plume, under the command of his Marshal, the Cock.
+
+'My General,' said the King, 'thou shalt not perish for me. Fly! I can
+go no farther. Fly! I bid thee, and take counsel with the Goose that
+Crest-jewel, my son, be named King!'
+
+'Good my Lord,' replied the Paddy-bird, 'speak not thus! Let your
+Majesty reign victorious while the sun and moon endure. I am governor of
+your Majesty's fortress, and if the enemy enter it he shall but do so
+over my body; let me die for thee, my Master!--
+
+    'Gentle, generous, and discerning; such a Prince the Gods do give!'
+
+'That shalt thou not,' replied the Rajah--
+
+    'Skilful, honest, and true-hearted; where doth such a Vassal live?'
+
+'Nay! my royal Lord, escape!' cried the Paddy-bird; a king's life is the
+life of his people--
+
+    'The people are the lotus-leaves, their monarch is the sun--
+    When he doth sink beneath the waves they vanish every one.
+
+    When he doth rise they rise again with bud and blossom rife,
+    To bask awhile in his warm smile, who is their lord and life.'
+
+'Think no more of me.' At this instant the Cock rushing forward,
+inflicted a wound with his sharp spurs on the person of the King; but
+the Paddy-bird sprang in front of him, and receiving on his body the
+blows designed for the Rajah, forced him away into the pool. Then
+turning upon the Cock, he despatched him with a shower of blows from his
+long bill; and finally succumbed, fighting in the midst of his enemies.
+Thus the King of the Peacocks captured the fortress; and marched home
+with all the treasure in it, amid songs of victory.
+
+Then spake the Princes: "In that army of the Swans there was no soldier
+like the Paddy-bird, who gave his own life for the King's."
+
+"There be nowhere many such," replied Vishnu-Sarman; "for
+
+    'All the cows bring forth are cattle--only now and then is born
+    An authentic lord of pastures, with his shoulder-scratching horn.'[20]
+
+"It is well spoken," said the Princes.
+
+"But for him that dares to die so," added the Sage, "may an eternal
+heaven be reserved, and may the lustrous Angels of Paradise, the
+Apsaras, conduct him thither! Is it not so declared, indeed?--
+
+    'When the soldier in the battle lays his life down for his king,
+    Unto Swerga's perfect glory such a deed his soul shall bring.'
+
+"It is so declared," said the Rajah's sons.
+
+"And now, my Princes," concluded Vishnu-Sarman, "you have listened to
+'War.'"
+
+"We have listened, and are gratified," replied the sons of the King.
+
+"Let me end then," said their Preceptor, "with this--
+
+      'If the clouds of Battle lower
+      When ye come into your power,
+      Durga grant the foes that dare you
+      Bring no elephants to scare you;
+      Nor the thunderous rush of horses,
+      Nor the footmen's steel-fringed forces:
+    But overblown by Policy's strong breath,
+    Hide they in caverns from the avenging death.'
+
+
+[16] The peacock is wild in most Indian jungles. The swan is a species
+of flamingo of a white color. The voice and gait of a beautiful woman
+are likened by the Hindoo poets to those of the swan.
+
+[17] By such a death as that alluded to, she earns the title of Sati,
+the "excellent."
+
+[18] The common Indian crane; a graceful white bird, seen everywhere in
+the interior of Hindoostan.
+
+[19] A man of military caste.
+
+[20] Large branching horns which reach backward and rub upon his
+shoulders.
+
+
+
+
+PEACE
+
+
+When the time came for resuming instruction, the King's sons said to
+Vishnu-Sarman, "Master, we have heard of War, we would now learn
+somewhat of the treaties which follow war." "It is well asked," replied
+the Sage; "listen therefore to 'Peace,' which hath this commencement--
+
+    'When those great Kings their weary war did cease,
+    The Vulture and the Goose concluded Peace.'
+
+'How came that?' asked the Princes.
+
+Vishnu-Sarman related:--
+
+
+THE TREATY BETWEEN THE PEACOCKS AND THE SWANS
+
+"So soon as King Jewel-plume had retreated, the first care of King
+Silver-sides was the discovery of the treason that had cost him the
+fort.
+
+'Goose,' he said to his Minister, 'who put the fire to our citadel,
+think you? Was it an enemy or an inmate?'
+
+'Sire,' replied the Goose, 'Night-cloud and his followers are nowhere to
+be seen--it must needs be his work.'
+
+'It must needs be,' sighed the King, after a pause; 'but what
+ill-fortune!'
+
+'If it please your Majesty, no,' replied the Minister; 'it is written--
+
+    "'Tis the fool who, meeting trouble, straightway destiny reviles;
+    Knowing not his own misdoing brought his own mischance the whiles."
+
+You have forgotten the saying--
+
+    'Who listens not, when true friends counsel well,
+    Must fall, as once the foolish Tortoise fell.'
+
+'I never heard it,' said the King. 'How was that?' The Goose related--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE TORTOISE AND THE GEESE
+
+"There is a pool in South Behar called the 'Pool of the Blue Lotus,' and
+two Geese had for a long time lived there. They had a friend in the pool
+who was a Tortoise, and he was known as 'Shelly-neck,' It chanced one
+evening that the Tortoise overheard some fishermen talking by the water.
+'We will stop here to-night,' they said, 'and in the morning we will
+catch the fish, the tortoises, and such like.' Extremely alarmed at
+this, the Tortoise repaired to his friends the Geese, and reported the
+conversation.
+
+'What ever am I to do, Gossips?' he asked.
+
+'The first thing is to be assured of the danger,' said the Geese.
+
+'I am assured,' exclaimed the Tortoise; 'the first thing is to avoid it:
+don't you know?--
+
+    'Time-not-come' and 'Quick-at-peril,' these two fishes 'scaped the net;
+    'What-will-be-will-be,' he perished, by the fishermen beset.'
+
+'No,' said the Geese,' how was it?' Shelly-neck related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF FATE AND THE THREE FISHES
+
+"It was just such a pool as this, and on the arrival at it of just such
+men as these fishermen, that three fishes, who had heard their designs,
+held consultation as to what should be done.
+
+'I shall go to another water,' said "Time-not-come," and away he went.
+
+'Why should we leave unless obliged?' asked "Quick-at-peril." 'When the
+thing befalls I shall do the best I can--
+
+    'Who deals with bad dilemmas well, is wise.
+    The merchant's wife, with womanly device,
+    Kissed--and denied the kiss--under his eyes.'
+
+'How was that?' asked the other fish. Quick-at-peril related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE UNABASHED WIFE
+
+"There was a trader in Vikrama-poora, who had a very beautiful wife, and
+her name was Jewel-bright. The lady was as unfaithful as she was fair,
+and had chosen for her last lover one of the household servants. Ah!
+womankind!--
+
+    'Sex, that tires of being true,
+    Base and new is brave to you!
+    Like the jungle-cows ye range,
+    Changing food for sake of change.'
+
+Now it befell one day that as Jewel-bright was bestowing a kiss on the
+mouth of the servant, she was surprised by her husband; and seeing him
+she ran up hastily and said, 'My lord, here is an impudent varlet! he
+eats the camphor which I procured for you; I was actually smelling it on
+his lips as you entered.' The servant catching her meaning, affected
+offence. 'How can a man stay in a house where the mistress is always
+smelling one's lips for a little camphor?' he said; and thereat he was
+for going off, and was only constrained by the good man to stay, after
+much entreaty. 'Therefore,' said Quick-at-peril, 'I mean to abide here,
+and make the best I can of what befalls, as she did.'
+
+'Yes, yes,' said What-will-be-will-be, 'we all know
+
+    'That which will not be will not be, and what is to be will be:--
+    Why not drink this easy physic, antidote of misery?'
+
+'When the morning came, the net was thrown, and both the fishes
+inclosed. Quick-at-peril, on being drawn up, feigned himself dead; and
+upon the fisherman's laying him aside, he leaped off again into the
+water. As to What-will-be-will-be, he was seized and forthwith
+dispatched.--And that,' concluded the Tortoise, 'is why I wish to devise
+some plan of escape.'
+
+'It might be compassed if you could go elsewhere,' said the Geese, 'but
+how can you get across the ground?'
+
+'Can't you take me through the air?' asked the Tortoise.
+
+'Impossible!' said the Geese.
+
+'Not at all!' replied the Tortoise; 'you shall hold a stick across in
+your bills, and I will hang on to it by my mouth--and thus you can
+readily convey me,'
+
+'It is feasible,' observed the Geese, 'but remember,
+
+    'Wise men their plans revolve, lest ill befall;
+    The Herons gained a friend, and so, lost all.'
+
+'How came that about?' asked the Tortoise. The Geese related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE HERONS AND THE MONGOOSE
+
+"Among the mountains of the north there is one named Eagle-cliff, and
+near it, upon a fig-tree, a flock of Herons had their residence. At the
+foot of the tree, in a hollow, there lived a serpent; and he was
+constantly devouring the nestlings of the Herons. Loud were the
+complaints of the parent birds, until an old Heron thus advised
+them:--'You should bring some fishes from the pool, and lay them one by
+one in a line from the hole of yonder Mongoose to the hollow where the
+Serpent lives. The Mongoose will find him when it comes after the fish,
+and if it finds him it will kill him.' The advice seemed good, and was
+acted upon; but in killing the Snake the Mongoose overheard the cry of
+the young Herons; and climbing the tree daily, he devoured all that the
+Snake had left. Therefore,' concluded the Geese, 'do we bid you look
+well into your plan: if you should open your mouth, for instance, as we
+carry you, you will drop and be killed.'
+
+'Am I a fool,' cried the Tortoise, 'to open my mouth? Not I! Come now,
+convey me!'
+
+'Thereupon the Geese took up the stick; the Tortoise held fast with his
+mouth, and away they flew. The country people, observing this strange
+sight, ran after.
+
+'Ho! ho!' cried one, 'look at the flying Tortoise!'
+
+'When he falls we'll cook and eat him here,' said another.
+
+'No; let us take him home for dinner!' cried a third.
+
+'We can light a fire by the pool, and eat him,' said the first.
+
+'The Tortoise heard these unkind remarks in a towering passion. 'Eat
+me!--eat ashes!' he exclaimed, opening his mouth--and down he fell
+directly, and was caught by the countrymen.--Said I not well,' concluded
+the Goose-Minister, 'that to scorn counsel is to seek destruction?'
+
+'You have well said,' replied King Silver-sides, disconsolately.
+
+'Yes, your Majesty,' interposed the Crane, who was just returned, 'if
+the Fort had been cleared, Night-cloud could not have fired it, as he
+did, by the Vulture's instigation.'
+
+'We see it all,' sighed the King, 'but too late!'
+
+    'Whoso trusts, for service rendered, or fair words, an enemy,
+    Wakes from folly like one falling in his slumber from a tree.'
+
+'I witnessed Night-cloud's reception,' continued the Crane. 'King
+Jewel-plume showed him great favor, and was for anointing him Rajah of
+Camphor-island.'
+
+'Hear you that, my Liege?' asked the Goose.
+
+'Go on; I hear!' said Silver-sides.
+
+'To that the Vulture demurred,' continued the Crane:--'"favor to low
+persons," he said, "was like writing on the sea-sand. To set the
+base-born in the seat of the great was long ago declared impolitic--
+
+    'Give mean men power, and give thy throat to the knife;
+    The Mouse, made Tiger, sought his master's life.'
+
+'How was that?' asked King Jewel-plume. The Vulture related--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE RECLUSE AND THE MOUSE
+
+"In the forest of the Sage Gautama there dwelt a Recluse named
+Mighty-at-Prayer. Once, as he sat at his frugal meal, a young mouse
+dropped beside him from the beak of a crow, and he took it up and fed it
+tenderly with rice grains. Some time after the Saint observed a cat
+pursuing his dependent to devour it, whereupon he changed the mouse into
+a stout cat. The cat was a great deal harassed by dogs, upon which the
+Saint again transformed it into a dog. The dog was always in danger of
+the tigers, and his protector at last gave him the form of a
+tiger--considering him all this while, and treating him withal, like
+nothing but a mouse. The country-folk passing by would say, 'That a
+tiger! not he; it is a mouse the Saint has transformed.' And the mouse
+being vexed at this, reflected, 'So long as the Master lives, this
+shameful story of my origin will survive!' With this thought he was
+about to take the Saint's life, when he, who knew his purpose, turned
+the ungrateful beast by a word to his original shape. Besides, your
+Majesty," continued the Vulture, "it may not be so easy to take in
+Camphor-island--
+
+    'Many fine fishes did the old Crane kill,
+    But the Crab matched him, maugre all his bill.'
+
+'How came that to pass?' asked Jewel-plume.
+
+'The Vulture related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE CRANE AND THE CRAB
+
+"There was an old Crane at a mere called Lily-water, in Malwa, who stood
+one day in the shallows with a most dejected look and drooping bill. A
+Crab observed him and called out, 'Friend Crane! have you given up
+eating, that you stand there all day?' 'Nay, sir!' replied the old
+Crane; 'I love my dish of fish, but I have heard the fishermen say that
+they mean to capture every one that swims in this water; and as that
+destroys my hope of subsistence, I am resigning myself to death.' All
+this the fishes overheard. 'In this matter certainly,' they said, 'his
+interest is ours; we ought to consult him; for it is written--
+
+    'Fellow be with kindly foemen, rather than with friends unkind;
+    Friend and foeman are distinguished not by title but by mind.'
+
+Thereupon they repaired to him: 'Good Crane,' they said, 'what course is
+there for safety?'
+
+'Course of safety there is,' replied the Crane, 'to go elsewhere; and I
+will carry you one by one to another pool, if you please.'
+
+'Do so,' said the trembling fishes.
+
+"The Crane accordingly took one after another, and having eaten them
+returned with the report that he had safely deposited each. Last of all,
+the Crab requested to be taken; and the Crane, coveting his tender
+flesh, took him up with great apparent respect. On arriving at the spot,
+which was covered with fish-bones, the Crab perceived the fate reserved
+for him; and turning round he fastened upon the Crane's throat and tore
+it so that he perished.'
+
+'Well, but,' said King Jewel-plume, 'we can make Night-cloud viceroy
+here, to send over to Vindhya all the productions of Camphor-isle!'
+
+'Then the Vulture Far-sight laughed a low laugh and said--
+
+    'Who, ere he makes a gain has spent it,
+    Like the pot-breaker will repent it.'
+
+'What was that?' asked the King. Far-sight related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE BRAHMAN AND THE PANS
+
+"There was a Brahman in the city of V�na, whose name was Deva Sarman. At
+the equinoctial feast of the Dussera, he obtained for his duxina-gift a
+dish of flour, which he took into a potter's shed; and there lay down in
+the shade among the pots, staff in hand. As he thus reclined he began to
+meditate, 'I can sell this meal for ten cowrie-shells, and with them I
+can purchase some of these pots and sell them at an advance. With all
+that money I shall invest in betel-nuts and body-cloths and make a new
+profit by their sale; and so go on trafficking till I get a lakh of
+rupees--what's to prevent me? Then I shall marry four wives--and one at
+least will be beautiful and young, and she shall be my favorite. Of
+course the others will be jealous; but if they quarrel, and talk, and
+trouble me I will belabor them like this--and this'--and therewith he
+flourished his staff to such a purpose as to smash his meal-dish and
+break several of the potter's jars. The potter, rushing out, took him by
+the throat, and turned him off; and so ended his speculations. I smiled,
+my Liege,' concluded the Vulture, 'at your precipitancy, thinking of
+that story.'
+
+'Tell me, then, my Father, what should be done,' said the King.
+
+'Tell me first, your Majesty, what took the fortress: strength or
+stratagem?'
+
+'It was a device of yours,' said the King.
+
+'It is well,' replied the Minister, 'and my counsel now is to return
+before the rainy season, while we can return; and to make peace. We have
+won renown and taken the enemy's stronghold; let it suffice. I speak as
+a faithful adviser; and it is written--
+
+    'Whoso setting duty highest, speaks at need unwelcome things,
+    Disregarding fear and favor, such a one may succor kings.'
+
+Oh, my Liege! war is uncertain! Nay, it may ruin victor and
+vanquished--
+
+    'Sunda the strong, and giant Upasunda,
+    Contending, like the lightning and the thunder,
+    Slew each the other. Learn, the while you wonder.'
+
+'Tell me that,' said the King of the Peacocks.
+
+'The Vulture related--
+
+
+THE DUEL OF THE GIANTS
+
+"Long ago, my Liege, there were two Daityas named Sunda and Upasunda,
+the which with penance and fasting worshipped that God who wears the
+moon for his forehead-jewel; desiring to win his favor, and thereby the
+lordship of the Three Worlds. At last the God, propitiated by their
+devotion, spake thus unto them:--
+
+'I grant a boon unto ye--choose what it shall be.'
+
+'And they, who would have asked dominion, were suddenly minded of
+Saraswati--who reigns over the hearts and thoughts of men--to seek a
+forbidden thing.
+
+'If,' said they, 'we have found favor, let the Divinity give us his own
+cherished Parvati, the Queen of Heaven!'
+
+'Terribly incensed was the God, but his word had passed, and the boon
+must be granted; and Parvati the Divine was delivered up to them. Then
+those two world-breakers, sick at heart, sin-blinded, and afire with the
+glorious beauty of the Queen of Life--began to dispute, saying one to
+another: 'Mine is she! mine is she!' At the last they called for an
+umpire, and the God himself appeared before them as a venerable Brahman.
+
+'Master,' said they, 'tell us whose she is, for we both won her by our
+might.'
+
+'Then spake that Brahman:--
+
+    'Brahmans for their lore have honor; Kshattriyas for their bravery;
+    Vaisyas for their hard-earned treasure; Sudras for humility,'
+
+Ye are Kshattriyas--and it is yours to fight; settle, then, this
+question by the sword.'
+
+'Thereupon they agreed that he spoke wisely, and drew and battled; and
+being of equal force, they fell at the same moment by an exchange of
+blows. Good my Lord,' concluded the Minister, 'peace is a better thing
+than war,'
+
+'But why not say so before?' asked Jewel-plume.
+
+'I said it at the first,' replied the Minister. 'I knew King
+Silver-sides for a just King, upon whom it was ill to wage battle. How
+say the Scriptures?--
+
+    'Seven foemen of all foemen, very hard to vanquish be:
+    The Truth-teller, the Just-dweller, and the man from passion free,
+    Subtle, self-sustained, and counting frequent well-won victories,
+    And the man of many kinsmen--keep the peace with such as these.'
+
+The Swan-king has friends and kinsmen, my Liege:--
+
+    'And the man with many kinsmen answers with them all attacks;
+    As the bambu, in the bambus safely sheltered, scorns the axe.'
+
+'My counsel then is that peace be concluded with him,' said the Vulture.
+
+'All this King Silver-sides and his Minister the Goose heard attentively
+from the Crane.
+
+'Go again!' said the Goose to Long-bill, 'and bring us news of how the
+Vulture's advice is received.'
+
+'Minister!' began the King, upon the departure of the Crane, 'tell me as
+to this peace, who are they with whom it should not be concluded?'
+
+'They be twenty, namely----'
+
+'Tarry not to name them,' said the King; 'and what be the qualities of a
+good ally?'
+
+'Such should be learned in Peace and War,' replied the Goose, 'in
+marching and pitching, and seasonably placing an army in the field; for
+it is said--
+
+    'He who sets his battle wisely, conquers the unwary foe;
+    As the Owl, awaiting night-time, slew the overweening Crow.'
+
+Counsel, my Liege, is quintuple--Commencing, providing, dividing,
+repelling, and completing,'
+
+'Good!' said the King.
+
+'Power is triple,' continued the Goose, 'being of Kings, of counsels,
+and of constant effort.'
+
+'It is so!' said the King.
+
+'And expedients, my Liege,' continued the Goose, 'are quadruple, and
+consist of conciliation, of gifts, of strife-stirring, and of force of
+arms; for thus it is written--
+
+    'Whoso hath the gift of giving wisely, equitably, well;
+    Whoso, learning all men's secrets, unto none his own will tell;
+    Whoso, ever cold and courtly, utters nothing that offends,
+    Such a one may rule his fellows unto Earth's extremest ends.'
+
+'Then King Jewel-plume would be a good ally,' observed the Swan-king.
+
+'Doubtless!' said the Goose, 'but elated with victory, he will hardly
+listen to the Vulture's counsel; we must make him do it.'
+
+'How?' asked the King.
+
+'We will cause our dependent, the King of Ceylon, Strong-bill the Stork,
+to raise an insurrection in Jambudwipa.'
+
+'It is well-conceived,' said the King. And forthwith a Crane, named
+Pied-body, was dismissed with a secret message to that Rajah.
+
+'In course of time the first Crane, who had been sent as a spy, came
+back, and made his report. He related that the Vulture had advised his
+Sovereign to summon Night-cloud, the Crow, and learn from him regarding
+King Silver-sides' intentions. Night-cloud attended accordingly.
+
+'Crow!' asked King Jewel-plume, 'what sort of a Monarch is the Rajah
+Silver-sides?'
+
+'Truthful, may it please you,' replied the Crow; 'and therewithal noble
+as Yudisthira himself.'
+
+'And his Minister, the Goose?'
+
+'Is a Minister unrivalled, my Liege,' said the Crow-king.
+
+'But how then didst thou so easily deceive them?'
+
+'Ah! your Majesty,' said the Crow, 'there was little credit in that. Is
+it not said?--
+
+    'Cheating them that truly trust you, 'tis a clumsy villainy!
+    Any knave may slay the child who climbs and slumbers on his knee.'
+
+Besides, the Minister detected me immediately. It was the King whose
+innate goodness forbade him to suspect evil in another:--
+
+    'Believe a knave, thyself scorning a lie,
+    And rue it, like the Brahman, by and by.'
+
+'What Brahman was that?' asked the King. Night-cloud replied:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE BRAHMAN AND THE GOAT
+
+"A Brahman that lived in the forest of Gautama, your Majesty. He had
+purveyed a goat to make pooja, and was returning home with it on life
+shoulder when he was descried by three knaves. 'If we could but obtain
+that goat,' said they, 'it would be a rare trick'; and they ran on, and
+seated themselves at the foot of three different trees upon the
+Brahman's road. Presently he came up with the first of them, who
+addressed him thus: 'Master! why do you carry that dog on your
+shoulder?' 'Dog!' said the Brahman, 'it is a goat for sacrifice!' With
+that he went on a coss, and came to the second knave; who called
+out--'What doest thou with that dog, Master?' The Brahman laid his goat
+upon the ground, looked it all over, took it up again upon his back, and
+walked on with his mind in a whirl; for--
+
+    'The good think evil slowly, and they pay
+    A price for faith--as witness "Crop-ear" may.'
+
+'Who was Crop-ear?' asked the King of the Peacocks.
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE CAMEL, THE LION, AND HIS COURT
+
+"A Camel, may it please you," replied Night-cloud, "who strayed away
+from a kafila, and wandered into the forest. A Lion, named
+'Fierce-fangs,' lived in that forest; and his three courtiers, a Tiger,
+a Jackal, and a Crow, met the Camel, and conducted him to their King.
+His account of himself was satisfactory, and the Lion took him into his
+service under the name of Crop-ear. Now it happened that the rainy
+season was very severe, and the Lion became indisposed, so that there
+was much difficulty in obtaining food for the Court. The courtiers
+resolved accordingly to prevail on the Lion to kill the Camel; 'for what
+interest have we,' they said, 'in this browser of thistles?'
+
+'What, indeed!' observed the Tiger; 'but will the Rajah kill him after
+his promise of protection, think you?'
+
+'Being famished he will,' said the Crow. 'Know you not?--
+
+    'Hunger hears not, cares not, spares not; no boon of the starving beg;
+    When the snake is pinched with craving, verily she eats her egg.'
+
+Accordingly they repaired to the Lion.
+
+'Hast brought me food, fellow?' growled the Rajah.
+
+'None, may it please you,' said the Crow.
+
+'Must we starve, then?' asked his Majesty.
+
+'Not unless you reject the food before you, Sire,' rejoined the Crow.
+
+'Before me! how mean you?'
+
+'I mean,' replied the Crow (and he whispered it in the Lion's ear),
+'Crop-ear, the Camel!'
+
+'Now!' said the Lion, and he touched the ground, and afterwards both
+ears, as he spoke, 'I have given him my pledge for his safety, and how
+should I slay him?'
+
+'Nay, Sire! I said not slay,' replied the Crow; 'it may be that he will
+offer himself for food. To that your Majesty would not object?'
+
+'I am parlous hungry,' muttered the Lion.
+
+'Then the Crow went to find the Camel, and, bringing all together before
+the King under some pretence or other, he thus addressed him:--
+
+'Sire! our pains are come to nothing: we can get no food, and we behold
+our Lord falling away,
+
+    'Of the Tree of State the root
+    Kings are--feed what brings the fruit.'
+
+Take me, therefore, your Majesty, and break your fast upon me."
+
+'Good Crow,' said the Lion, 'I had liefer die than do so.'
+
+'Will your Majesty deign to make a repast upon me?' asked the Jackal.
+
+'On no account!' replied the Lion.
+
+'Condescend, my Lord,' said the Tiger, 'to appease your hunger with my
+poor flesh.'
+
+'Impossible!' responded the Lion.
+
+'Thereupon Crop-ear, not to be behind in what seemed safe, made offer of
+his own carcase, which was accepted before he had finished; the Tiger
+instantly tearing his flank open, and all the rest at once devouring
+him.
+
+'The Brahman,' continued Night-cloud, 'suspected nothing more than did
+the Camel; and when the third knave had broken his jest upon him for
+bearing a dog, he threw it down, washed himself clean of the
+contamination, and went home; while the knaves secured and cooked his
+goat.'
+
+'But, Night-cloud,' asked the Rajah, 'how couldst thou abide so long
+among enemies, and conciliate them?'
+
+'It is easy to play the courtier for a purpose,' said Night-cloud--
+
+    'Courtesy may cover malice; on their heads the woodmen bring,
+    Meaning all the while to burn them, logs and fagots--oh, my King!
+    And the strong and subtle river, rippling at the cedar's foot,
+    While it seems to lave and kiss it, undermines the hanging root.'
+
+Indeed, it has been said--
+
+    'A wise man for an object's sake
+    His foe upon his back will take,
+    As with the Frogs once did the Snake.'
+
+'How was that?' asked the Peacock-King. The Crow related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE FROGS AND THE OLD SERPENT
+
+"In a deserted garden there once lived a Serpent, 'Slow-coil' by name;
+who had reached an age when he was no longer able to obtain his own
+food. Lying listlessly by the edge of a pond, he was descried by a
+certain Frog, and interrogated--
+
+'Have you given up caring for food, Serpent?'
+
+'Leave me, kindly Sir,' replied the subtle reptile; 'the griefs of a
+miserable wretch like me cannot interest your lofty mind.'
+
+'Let me at least hear them,' said the Frog, somewhat flattered.
+
+'You must know, then, gracious Sir,' began the Serpent, 'that it is now
+twenty years since here, in Brahmapoora, I bit the son of Kaundinya, a
+holy Brahman; of which cruel bite he died. Seeing his boy dead,
+Kaundinya abandoned himself to despair, and grovelled in his distress
+upon the ground. Thereat came all his kinsmen, citizens of Brahmapoora,
+and sat down with him, as the manner is--
+
+    'He who shares his brother's portion, be he beggar, be he lord,
+    Comes as truly, comes as duly, to the battle as the board;
+
+    Stands before the King to succor, follows to the pile to sigh;
+    He is friend and he is kinsman--less would make the name a lie.'
+
+Then spoke a twice-passed Brahman,[21] Kapila by name, 'O Kaundinya!
+thou dost forget thyself to lament thus. Hear what is written--
+
+    'Weep not! Life the hired nurse is, holding us a little space;
+    Death, the mother who doth take us back into our proper place.'
+
+    'Gone, with all their gauds and glories: gone, like peasants, are the
+            Kings,
+    Whereunto the world is witness, whereof all her record rings.'
+
+What, indeed, my friend, is this mortal frame, that we should set store
+by it?--
+
+    'For the body, daily wasting, is not seen to waste away,
+    Until wasted, as in water set a jar of unbaked clay.'
+
+    'And day after day man goeth near and nearer to his fate,
+    As step after step the victim thither where its slayers wait.'
+
+Friends and kinsmen--they must all be surrendered! Is it not said--
+
+    'Like as a plank of drift-wood
+      Tossed on the watery main,
+    Another plank encountered,
+      Meets--touches--parts again;
+    So tossed, and drifting ever,
+      On life's unresting sea,
+    Men meet, and greet, and sever,
+      Parting eternally.'
+
+Thou knowest these things, let thy wisdom chide thy sorrow, saying--
+
+    'Halt, traveller! rest i' the shade: then up and leave it!
+    Stay, Soul! take fill of love; nor losing, grieve it!'
+
+But in sooth a wise man would better avoid love; for--
+
+    'Each beloved object born
+    Sets within the heart a thorn,
+    Bleeding, when they be uptorn.'
+
+And it is well asked--
+
+    'When thine own house, this rotting frame, doth wither,
+    Thinking another's lasting--goest thou thither?'
+
+What will be, will be; and who knows not--
+
+    'Meeting makes a parting sure,
+    Life is nothing but death's door.'
+
+For truly--
+
+    'As the downward-running rivers never turn and never stay,
+    So the days and nights stream deathward, bearing human lives away.'
+
+And though it be objected that--
+
+    'Bethinking him of darkness grim, and death's unshunned pain,
+    A man strong-souled relaxes hold, like leather soaked in rain.'
+
+Yet is this none the less assured, that--
+
+    'From the day, the hour, the minute,
+      Each life quickens in the womb;
+    Thence its march, no falter in it,
+      Goes straight forward to the tomb.'
+
+Form, good friend, a true idea of mundane matters; and bethink thee that
+regret is after all but an illusion, an ignorance--
+
+    'An 'twere not so, would sorrow cease with years?
+    Wisdom sees aright what want of knowledge fears.'
+
+'Kaundinya listened to all this with the air of a dreamer. Then rising
+up he said, 'Enough! the house is hell to me--I will betake me to the
+forest.'
+
+'Will that stead you?' asked Kapila; 'nay--
+
+    'Seek not the wild, sad heart! thy passions haunt it;
+    Play hermit in thine house with heart undaunted;
+    A governed heart, thinking no thought but good,
+    Makes crowded houses holy solitude.'
+
+To be master of one's self--to eat only to prolong life--to yield to
+love no more than may suffice to perpetuate a family--and never to speak
+but in the cause of truth, this,' said Kapila, 'is armor against grief.
+What wouldst thou with a hermit's life--prayer and purification from
+sorrow and sin in holy streams? Hear this!--
+
+    'Away with those that preach to us the washing off of sin--
+    Thine own self is the stream for thee to make ablutions in:
+    In self-restraint it rises pure--flows clear in tide of truth,
+    By widening banks of wisdom, in waves of peace and ruth.
+    Bathe there, thou son of Pandu! with reverence and rite,
+    For never yet was water wet could wash the spirit white.'
+
+Resign thyself to loss. Pain exists absolutely. Ease, what is it but a
+minute's alleviation?'
+
+'It is nothing else,' said Kaundinya: 'I will resign myself!'
+Thereupon,' the Serpent continued, 'he cursed me with the curse that I
+should be a carrier of frogs, and so retired--and here remain I to do
+according to the Brahman's malediction.'
+
+'The Frog, hearing all this, went and reported it to Web-foot the
+Frog-King, who shortly came himself for an excursion on the Serpent. He
+was carried delightfully, and constantly employed the conveyance. But
+one day observing the Serpent to be sluggish, he asked the reason.
+
+'May it please you,' explained the Serpent, 'your slave has nothing to
+eat.'
+
+'Eat a few of my frogs,' said the King. 'I give you leave.'
+
+'I thank your Majesty!' answered the Serpent, and forthwith he began to
+eat the frogs, until the pond becoming clear, he finished with their
+monarch himself. 'I also,' said Night-cloud, 'stooped to conquer, but
+King Silver-sides is a good King, and I would your Majesty were at peace
+with him.'
+
+'Peace!' cried King Jewel-plume, 'shall I make peace with my vassal! I
+have vanquished him--let him serve me!'
+
+"At this moment the Parrot came in. 'Sire!' said he, breathlessly,' the
+Stork Strong-bill, Rajah of Ceylon, has raised the standard of revolt in
+Jambudwipa, and claims the country.'
+
+'What! what!' cried the King in a fury.
+
+'Excellent good, Goose!' muttered the Minister. 'This is thy work!'
+
+'Bid him but await me!' exclaimed the King, 'and I will tear him up like
+a tree!'
+
+'Ah, Sire,' said the Minister--
+
+    'Thunder for nothing, like December's cloud,
+    Passes unmarked: strike hard, but speak not loud.'
+
+We cannot march without making peace first; our rear will be attacked.'
+
+'Must it be so?' asked the King.
+
+'My Liege, it must,' replied the Vulture.
+
+'Make a peace then,' said the King, 'and make an end.'
+
+'It is well,' observed the Minister, and set out for the Court of the
+King Silver-sides. While he was yet coming, the Crane announced his
+approach.
+
+'Ah!' said the Swan-King, 'this will be another designing spy from the
+enemy.'
+
+'Misdoubt him not!' answered the Goose, smiling, 'it is the Vulture
+Far-sight, a spirit beyond suspicion. Would your Majesty be as the Swan
+that took the stars reflected in the pool for lily-buds, and being
+deceived, would eat no lily-shoots by day, thinking them stars?'
+
+'Not so! but treachery breeds mistrust,' replied the Rajah; is it not
+written--
+
+    'Minds deceived by evil natures, from the good their faith withhold;
+    When hot conjee once has burned them, children blow upon the cold.'
+
+'It is so written, my Liege,' said the Minister. 'But this one may be
+trusted. Let him be received with compliments and a gift.'
+
+'Accordingly the Vulture was conducted, with the most profound respect,
+from the fort to the King's audience-hall, where a throne was placed for
+him.
+
+'Minister,' said the Goose, 'consider us and ours at thy disposal.'
+
+'So consider us,' assented the Swan-King.
+
+'I thank you,' said Far-sight; 'but--
+
+    'With a gift the miser meet;
+    Proud men by obeisance greet;
+    Women's silly fancies soothe;
+    Give wise men their due--the truth.'
+
+'I am come to conclude a peace, not to claim your kingdom. By what mode
+shall we conclude it?'
+
+'How many modes be there?' asked King Silver-sides.
+
+'Sixteen,' replied the Vulture.
+
+'Are the alliances numbered therein?' asked the King.
+
+'No! these be four,' answered the Vulture, 'namely--of mutual help--of
+friendship--of blood--and of sacrifice.'
+
+'You are a great diplomatist!' said the King. 'Advise us which to
+choose!'
+
+'There is no Peace like the Golden "Sangata," which is made between good
+men, based on friendly feeling, and preceded by the Oath of Truth,'
+replied the Vulture.
+
+'Let us make that Peace!' said the Goose. Far-sight accordingly, with
+fresh presents of robes and jewels, accompanied the Goose to the camp of
+the Peacock-King. The Rajah, Jewel-plume, gave the Goose a gracious
+audience, accepted his terms of Peace, and sent him back to the
+Swan-King, loaded with gifts and kind speeches. The revolt in Jambudwipa
+was suppressed, and the Peacock-King retired to his own kingdom.
+
+"And now," said Vishnu-Sarman, "I have told your Royal Highnesses all.
+Is there anything remaining to be told?"
+
+"Reverend Sir!" replied the Princes, "there is nothing. Thanks to you,
+we have heard and comprehended the perfect cycle of kingly duty, and are
+content."
+
+"There remains but this, then," said their Preceptor:--
+
+      'Peace and Plenty, all fair things,
+      Grace the realm where ye reign Kings;
+      Grief and loss come not anigh you,
+      Glory guide and magnify you;
+      Wisdom keep your statesmen still
+      Clinging fast, in good or ill,
+      Clinging, like a bride new-wed,
+      Unto lips, and breast, and head:
+    And day by day, that these fair things befall,
+    The Lady Lukshmi give her grace to all.'
+
+
+[21] A young Brahman, being invested with the sacred thread, and having
+concluded his studies, becomes of the second order: a householder.
+
+
+
+
+NALA AND DAMAYANTI
+
+[_Selected from the "Mah�bh�rata" Translation by Sir Edwin Arnold_]
+
+
+INTRODUCTION
+
+
+The "Mah�bh�rata" is the oldest epic in Sanscrit literature, and is
+sevenfold greater in bulk than the "Iliad" and "Odyssey" taken together.
+This remarkable poem contains almost all the history of ancient India,
+so far as it can be recovered, together with inexhaustible details of
+its political, social, and religious life--in fact, the antique Hindoo
+world stands epitomized in it. The Old Testament is not more interwoven
+with the Jewish race, nor the New Testament with the civilization of
+Christendom, nor even the Koran with the records and destinies of Islam,
+than is this great Sanscrit poem with the unchanging and teeming
+population of Hindostan. The stories, songs, and ballads, the
+genealogies, the nursery tales and religious discourses, the art, the
+learning, the philosophy, the creeds, the modes of thought, the very
+phrases and daily ideas of the Hindoo people are taken from this poem.
+Their children are named after its heroes; so are their cities, streets,
+and even cattle. It is the spiritual life of the Hindoo people. It is
+personified, worshipped, and cited as being something divine. To read,
+or even to listen, is to the devout Hindoo sufficiently meritorious to
+bring prosperity to the fireside in this world, and happiness in the
+world to come.
+
+The western world has as yet only received the "Mah�bh�rata" in
+fragments--mere specimens, bearing to those vast treasures of Sanscrit
+literature such small proportion as cabinet samples of ore have to the
+riches of a mine. Such knowledge as we have of the great Indian epics is
+largely due to Sir William Jones, and the host of translators who
+followed him.
+
+In its present shape the "Mah�bh�rata" contains some two hundred
+thousand verses. The style is forcible, often terse and nervous: the
+action is well sustained, and the whole effect produced is that of a
+poem written in commemoration of actual conflict between members of
+rival clans who lived somewhere southeast of the Punjab. In portrayal of
+character the Hindoo poem somewhat resembles its Grecian
+counterpart--the "Iliad"; the noble devotion and chivalric character of
+its chief hero, Arjuna, reminds us of Hector--and the wily, sinful
+Duryodhana, is a second Ulysses. The "Mah�bh�rata" was probably begun in
+the third or fourth century B.C., and completed soon after the beginning
+of the Christian era.
+
+The "Bh�rata" war is a war between rival cousins of the house of
+Bh�rata, a race of heroes mentioned in the Rig-veda collection.
+Duryodhana deprives his cousin Yudhisthira of his throne by inducing him
+to squander his fortune, kingdom, family, and self--and then banishes
+Yudhisthira and the latter's four brothers for twelve years. The
+gambling was conducted in an unfair manner, and the cousins feel that
+their banishment was the result of treachery, although pretended to be
+mercy in lieu of death. When the twelve years are over they collect
+armies of sympathizers, and on the Sacred Plain of the Kurus (the Holy
+Land of India) the great war is fought out. The good prevails,
+Duryodhana is slain, and Yudhisthira recovers his kingdom. This story is
+told so graphically that the "Mah�bh�rata" still has the charm that
+comes from plot and action, as well as that of poetic beauty.
+
+A concluding passage of this great poem says: "The reading of this
+'Mah�bh�rata' destroys all sin and produces virtue, so much so that the
+pronunciation of a single shloka is sufficient to wipe away much guilt.
+It has bound human beings in a chain, of which one end is life and the
+other death. If a man reads the 'Mah�bh�rata' and has faith in its
+doctrines, he is free from all sin and ascends to heaven after his
+death."
+
+The present selection is the episode of Nala and Damayanti. It is one of
+the most charming of the "Mah�bh�rata" stories, and its Oriental flavor
+and delicacy have been well preserved by the translator, Sir Edwin
+Arnold.
+
+L.F.C.
+
+
+
+
+THE MAH�BH�RATA
+
+
+NALA AND DAMAYANTI
+
+Part I
+
+
+    A prince there was, named Nala, Virasen's noble breed,
+    Goodly to see, and virtuous; a tamer of the steed;
+    As Indra 'midst the gods, so he of kings was kingliest one,
+    Sovereign of men, and splendid as the golden, glittering sun;
+    Pure, knowing scripture, gallant; ruling nobly Nishadh's lands;
+    Dice-loving, but a proud, true chief of her embattled bands;
+    By lovely ladies lauded; free, trained in self-control;
+    A shield and bow; a Manu on earth; a royal soul!
+    And in Vidarbha's city the Raja Bhima dwelled;
+    Save offspring, from his perfect bliss no blessing was withheld;
+    For offspring, many a pious rite full patiently he wrought,
+    Till Damana the Brahman unto his house was brought.
+    Him Bhima, ever reverent, did courteously entreat,
+    Within the Queen's pavilion led him, to rest and eat;
+    Whereby that sage, grown grateful, gave her--for joy of joys--
+    A girl, the gem of girlhood, and three brave lusty boys--
+    Damana, Dama, D�nta, their names:--Damayanti she;
+    No daughter more delightful, no sons could goodlier be.
+    Stately and bright and beautiful did Damayanti grow;
+    No land there was which did not the Slender-waisted know;
+    A hundred slaves her fair form decked with robe and ornament--
+    Like Sachi's self to serve her a hundred virgins bent;
+    And 'midst them Bhima's daughter, in peerless glory dight,
+    Gleamed as the lightning glitters against the murk of night;
+    Having the eyes of Lakshmi, long-lidded, black, and bright--
+    Nay--never Gods, nor Yakshas, nor mortal men among
+    Was one so rare and radiant e'er seen, or sued, or sung
+    As she, the heart-consuming, in heaven itself desired.
+    And Nala, too, of princes the Tiger-Prince, admired
+    Like Kama was; in beauty an embodied lord of love:
+    And ofttimes Nala praised they all other chiefs above
+    In Damayanti's hearing; and oftentimes to him,
+    With worship and with wonder, her beauty they would limn;
+    So that, unmet, unknowing, unseen, in each for each
+    A tender thought of longing grew up from seed of speech;
+    And love (thou son of Kunti!) those gentle hearts did reach.
+      Thus Nala--hardly bearing in his heart
+    Such longing--wandered in his palace-woods,
+    And marked some water-birds, with painted plumes,
+    Disporting. One, by stealthy steps, he seized;
+    But the sky-traveller spake to Nala this:--
+    "Kill me not, Prince, and I will serve thee well.
+    For I, in Damayanti's ear, will say
+    Such good of Nishadh's lord, that nevermore
+    Shall thought of man possess her, save of thee."
+      Thereat the Prince gladly gave liberty
+    To his soft prisoner, and all the swans
+    Flew, clanging, to Vidarbha--a bright flock--
+    Straight to Vidarbha, where the Princess walked;
+    And there, beneath her eyes, those winged ones
+    Lighted. She saw them sail to earth, and marked--
+    Sitting amid her maids--their graceful forms;
+    While those for wantonness 'gan chase the swans,
+    Which fluttered this and that way through the grove:
+    Each girl with tripping feet her bird pursued,
+    And Damayanti, laughing, followed hers;
+    Till--at the point to grasp--the flying prey
+    Deftly eluding touch, spake as men speak,
+    Addressing Bhima's daughter:--
+                                  "Lady dear!
+    Loveliest Damayanti! Nala dwells
+    In near Nishadha: oh, a noble Prince,
+    Not to be matched of men; an Aswin he,
+    For goodliness. Incomparable maid!
+    Wert thou but wife to that surpassing chief,
+    Rich would the fruit grow from such lordly birth,
+    Such peerless beauty. Slender-waisted one,
+    Gods, men, and Gandharvas have we beheld,
+    But never none among them like to him.
+    As thou art pearl of princesses, so he
+    Is crown of princes; happy would it fall,
+    One such perfection should another wed."
+      And when she heard that bird (O King of men!)
+    The Princess answered: "Go, dear swan, and tell
+    This same to Nala;" and the egg-born said,
+    "I go"--and flew; and told the Prince of all.
+      But Damayanti, having heard the bird,
+    Lived fancy-free no more; by Nala's side
+    Her soul dwelt, while she sat at home distraught,
+    Mournful and wan, sighing the hours away,
+    With eyes upcast, and passion-laden looks;
+    So that, eftsoons, her limbs failed, and her mind--
+    With love o'erweighted--found no rest in sleep,
+    No grace in company, no joy at feasts.
+    Nor night nor day brought peace; always she heaved
+    Sigh upon sigh, till all her maidens knew--
+    By glance and mien and moan--how changed she was,
+    Her own sweet self no more. Then to the King
+    They told how Damayanti loved the Prince.
+    Which thing when Bhima from her maidens heard,
+    Deep pondering for his child what should be done,
+    And why the Princess was beside herself,
+    That lord of lands perceived his daughter grown,
+    And knew that for her high Swayamvara
+    The time was come.
+                       So, to the Rajas all
+    The King sent word: "Ye Lords of Earth, attend
+    Of Damayanti the Swayamvara."
+    And when these learned of her Swayamvara,
+    Obeying Bhima, to his court they thronged--
+    Elephants, horses, cars--over the land
+    In full files wending, bearing flags and wreaths
+    Of countless hues, with gallant companies
+    Of fighting men. And those high-hearted chiefs
+    The strong-armed King welcomed with worship fair,
+    As fitted each, and led them to their seats.
+      Now at that hour there passed towards Indra's heaven,
+    Thither from earth ascending, those twain saints--
+    The wise, the pure, the mighty-minded ones,
+    The self-restrained--Narad and Parvata.
+    The mansion of the Sovereign of the Gods
+    In honor entered they; and he, the Lord
+    Of Clouds, dread Indra, softly them salutes,
+    Inquiring of their weal, and of the world
+    Wherethrough their name was famous, how it fares.
+      Then Narad said: "Well is it, Lord of Gods,
+    With us, and with our world; and well with those
+    Who rule the peoples, O thou King in Heaven!"
+      But He that slew the Demons spake again:--
+    "The princes of the earth, just-minded, brave,
+    Those who, in battle fearing not to fall,
+    See death on the descending blade, and charge
+    Full front against it, turning not their face--
+    Theirs is this realm eternal, as to me
+    The cow of plenty, K�madhuk, belongs.
+    Where be my Kshatriya warriors? Wherefore now
+    See I none coming of those slaughtered lords,
+    Chiefs of mankind, our always honored guests?"
+      And unto Indra Narad gave reply:--
+    "King of the Air! no wars are waged below;
+    None fall in fight, to enter here. The Lord
+    Of high Vidarbha hath a daughter, famed
+    For loveliness beyond all earthly maids,
+    The Princess Damayanti, far-renowned.
+    Of her, dread Sakra! the Swayamvara
+    Shall soon befall, and thither now repair
+    The kings and princes of all lands, to woo--
+    Each for himself--this pearl of womanhood.
+    For oh, thou Slayer of the Demons, all
+    Desire the maid."
+                     Drew round, while Narad spake,
+    The Masters, th'Immortals, pressing in
+    With Agni and the Greatest, near the throne,
+    To listen to the speech of Narada;
+    Whom having heard, all cried delightedly,
+    "We, too, will go." Thereupon those high gods,
+    With chariots, and with heavenly retinues,
+    Sped to Vidarbha, where the kings were met.
+    And Nala, knowing of this kingly tryst,
+    Went thither joyous, heart-full with the thought
+    Of Damayanti.
+                  Thus it chanced the gods
+    Beheld the Prince wending along his road,
+    Goodly of mien, as is the Lord of Love.
+    The world's Protectors saw him, like a sun
+    For splendor; and, in very wonder, paused
+    Some time irresolute, so fair he was;
+    Then in mid-sky their golden chariots stayed,
+    And through the clouds descending called to him:--
+    "Abo! Nala of Nishadha! Noblest Prince,
+    Be herald for us; bear our message now."
+      "Yea!" Nala made reply, "this will I do"--
+    And then--palm unto palm in reverence pressed--
+    Asked: "Shining Ones, who are ye? Unto whom,
+    And what words bearing, will ye that I go?
+    Deign to instruct me what it is ye bid."
+    Thus the Prince spake, and Indra answered him:--
+    "Thou seest th'immortal gods. Indra am I,
+    And this is Agni, and the other here,
+    Varuna, Lord of Waters; and beyond,
+    Yama, the King of Death, who parteth souls
+    From mortal frames. To Damayanti go;
+    Tell our approach. Say this: 'The world's dread lords,
+    Wishful to see thee, come; desiring thee--
+    Indra, Varuna, Agni, Yama, all.
+    Choose of these powers to which thou wilt be given.'"
+    But Nala, hearing that, joined palms again,
+    And cried: "Ah, send me not, with one accord
+    For this, most mighty Gods! How should a man
+    Sue for another, being suitor too?
+    How bear such errand? Have compassion, Gods!"
+      Then spake they: "Yet thou saidst, 'This shall I do,'
+    Nishadha's Prince! and wilt thou do it not,
+    Forswearing faith? Nay, but depart, and soon!"
+      So bid, but lingering yet again, he said:--
+    "Well guarded are the gates; how shall I find
+    Speech with her?"
+                      "Thou shalt find," Indra replied.
+    And, lo! upon that word Nala was brought
+    To Damayanti's chamber. There he saw
+    Vidarbha's glory, sitting 'mid her maids,
+    In majesty and grace surpassing all;
+    So exquisite, so delicate of form,
+    Waist so fine-turned, such limbs, such lighted eyes,
+    The moon hath meaner radiance than she.
+    Love at the sight of that soft smiling face
+    Sprang to full passion, while he stood and gazed.
+    Yet, faith and duty urging, he restrained
+    His beating heart; but when those beauteous maids
+    Spied Nala, from their cushions they uprose,
+    Startled to see a man, yet startled more
+    Because he showed so heavenly bright and fair.
+    In wondering pleasure each saluted him,
+    Uttering no sound, but murmuring to themselves:--
+    "Aho! the grace of him: aho! the brilliance;
+    Aho! what glorious strength lives in his limbs!
+    What is he? Is he God, Gandharva, Yaksha?"
+    But this unspoken, for they dared not breathe
+    One syllable, all standing shyly there
+    To see him, and to see his youth so sweet.
+    Yet, softly glancing back to his soft glance,
+    The Princess, presently, with fluttering breath,
+    Accosted Nala, saying: "Fairest Prince,
+    Who by thy faultless form hath filled my heart
+    With sudden joy, coming as come the gods,
+    Unstayed, I crave to know thee, who thou art;
+    How didst thou enter? how wert thou unseen?
+    Our palace is close-guarded, and the King
+    Hath issued mandates stern."
+                                Tenderly spake
+    The Prince, replying to those tender words:--
+    "Most lovely! I am Nala. I am come
+    A herald of the gods unto thee here.
+    The gods desire thee, the immortal Four--
+    Indra, Varuna, Yama, Agni. Choose,
+    O Brightest! one from these to be thy lord.
+    By their help is it I have entered in
+    Unseen; none could behold me at thy gates,
+    Nor stay me, passing; and to speak their will
+    They sent me, fairest one and best. Do thou,
+    Knowing the message, judge as seemeth well."
+      She bowed her head, hearing the great gods named,
+    And then, divinely smiling, said to him:--
+    "Pledge thyself faithfully to me, and I
+    Will seek, O Raja, only how to pay
+    That debt with all I am, with all I have;
+    For I and mine are thine--in full trust thine.
+    Make me that promise, Prince. Thy gentle name--
+    Sung by the swan--first set my thoughts afire;
+    And for thy sake--only for thee--sweet Lord,
+    The kings were summoned hither. If, alas!
+    Fair Prince, thou dost reject my sudden love,
+    So proffered, then must poison, flame, or flood,
+    Or knitted cord, be my sad remedy."
+      So spake Vidarbha's Pride; and Nala said:--
+    "With gods so waiting--with the world's dread lords
+    Hastening to woo, canst thou desire a man?
+    Bethink! I, unto these, that make and mar,
+    These all-wise ones, almighty, am like dust
+    Under their feet: lift thy heart to the height
+    Of what I bring. If mortal man offend
+    The most high gods, death is what springs of it.
+    Spare me to live, thou faultless lady! Choose
+    Which of these excellent great gods thou wilt;
+    Wear the unstained robes! bear on thy brows
+    The wreaths which never fade, of heavenly blooms!
+    Be, as thou mayest, a goddess, and enjoy
+    Godlike delights! Him who enfolds the earth,
+    Creating and consuming, Brightest Power,
+    Hut�sa, Eater of the Sacrifice,
+    What woman would not take? Or him whose rod
+    Herds all the generations forward still
+    On virtue's path, Red Yama, King of Death,
+    What woman would affront? Or him, the all-good,
+    All-wise destroyer of the Demons, first
+    In heaven, Mahendra--who of womankind
+    Is there that would not wed? Or, if thy mind
+    Incline, doubt not to choose Varuna; he
+    Is of these world-protectors. From a heart
+    Full friendly cometh what I tell thee now."
+      Unto Nishadha's Prince the maid replied--
+    Tears of distress dimming her lustrous eyes---
+    "Humbly I reverence these mighty gods;
+    But thee I choose, and thee I take for lord;
+    And this I vow!"
+                     With folded palms she stood,
+    And trembling lips, while his faint answer fell:--
+    "Sent on such embassy, how shall I dare
+    Speak, sweetest Princess, for myself to thee?
+    Bound by my promise for the gods to sue,
+    How can I be a suitor for myself?
+    Silence is here my duty; afterwards,
+    If I shall come, in mine own name I'll come,
+    Mine own cause pleading. Ah, might that so be!"
+      Checking her tears, Damayanti sadly smiled,
+    And said full soft: "One way of hope I see,
+    A blameless way, O Lord of men! wherefrom
+    No fault shall rise, nor any danger fall.
+    Thou also, Prince, with Indra and these gods,
+    Must enter in where my Swayamvara
+    Is held; then I, in presence of those gods,
+    Will choose thee, dearest, for my lord; and so
+    Blame shall not light on thee,"
+                                    With which sweet words
+    Soft in his ears, Nishadha straight returned
+    There where the gods were gathered, waiting him;
+    Whom the world's masters, on his way, perceived,
+    And, spying, questioned, asking for his news:--
+    "Saw'st thou her, Prince? Didst see the sweet-lipped one?
+    What spake she of us? Tell us true; tell all!"
+      Quoth Nala: "By your worshipful behest
+    Sent to her house, the great gates entered I,
+    Though the gray porters watched; but none might spy
+    My entering, by your power, O radiant Ones,
+    Saving the Raja's daughter; her I saw
+    Amid her maidens, and by them was seen.
+    On me with much amazement they did gaze
+    Whilst I your high Divinities extolled.
+    But she that hath the lovely face, with mind
+    Set upon me, hath chosen me, ye Gods.
+    For thus she spake, my Princess: 'Let them come,
+    And come thou, like a lordly tiger, too,
+    Unto the place of my Swayamvara;
+    There will I choose thee in their presence, Prince,
+    To be my lord; and so there will not fall
+    Blame, thou strong-armed! to thee,' This she did say
+    Even as I tell it; and what shall be next,
+    To will is yours, O ye immortal Ones!"
+      Soon, when the moon was good, and day and hour
+    Were found propitious, Bhima, King of men,
+    Summoned the chiefs to the Swayamvara;
+    Upon which message all those eager lords
+    For love of Damayanti hastened there.
+    Glorious with gilded pillars was the court,
+    Whereto a gate-house opened, and thereby
+    Into the square, like lions from the hills,
+    Paced the proud guests; and there their seats they took,
+    Each in his rank, the masters of the lands,
+    With crowns of fragrant blossoms garlanded,
+    And polished jewels swinging in their ears.
+    Of some the thews, knitted and rough, stood forth
+    Like iron maces; some had slender limbs,
+    Sleek and fine-turned like the five-headed snake;
+    Lords with long-flowing hair; glittering lords;
+    High-nosed, and eagle-eyed, and heavy-browed;
+    The faces of those kings shone in a ring
+    As shine at night the stars; and that great square
+    As thronged with Rajas was as Naga-land
+    Is full of serpents; thick with warlike chiefs
+    As mountain-caves with panthers. Unto these
+    Entered, in matchless majesty of form,
+    The Princess Damayanti. As she came,
+    The glory of her ravished eyes and hearts,
+    So that the gaze of all those haughty kings,
+    Fastening upon her loveliness, grew fixed--
+    Not moving save with her--step after step
+    Onward and always following the maid.
+      But while the styles and dignities of all
+    Were cried aloud (O son of Bh�rat!), lo!
+    The Princess marked five of that throng alike
+    In form and garb and visage. There they stood,
+    Each from the next undifferenced, but each
+    Nala's own self;--yet which might Nala be
+    In nowise could that doubting maid descry.
+    Who took her eye seemed Nala while she gazed,
+    Until she looked upon his like; and so
+    Pondered the lovely lady, sore-perplexed,
+    Thinking, "How shall I tell which be the gods,
+    And which is noble Nala?" Deep-distressed
+    And meditative waxed she, musing hard
+    What those signs were, delivered us of old,
+    Whereby gods may be known: "Of all those signs
+    Taught by our elders, lo! I see not one
+    Where stand yon five." So murmured she, and turned
+    Over and over every mark she knew.
+    At last, resolved to make the gods themselves
+    Her help at need, with reverent air and voice
+    Humbly saluted she those heavenly ones,
+    And with joined palms and trembling accents spake:--
+    "As, when I heard the swans, I chose my Prince,
+    By that sincerity I call ye, Gods,
+    To show my Love to me and make me know!
+    As in my heart and soul and speech I stand
+    True to my choice, by that sincerity
+    I call the all-knowing gods to make me know!
+    As the high gods created Nishadha's chief
+    To be my lord, by their sincerity
+    I bid them show themselves, and make me know!
+    As my vow, sealed to him, must be maintained
+    For his name, and for mine, I call the gods
+    By such sincerity to make me know!
+    Let them appear, the masters of the world--
+    The high gods--each one in his proper shape,
+    That I may see Nishadha's chief, my choice,
+    Whom minstrels praise, and Damayanti loves."
+      Hearing that earnest speech--so passion-fraught,
+    So full of truth, of strong resolve, of love,
+    Of singleness of soul and constancy--
+    Even as she spake, the gods disclosed themselves.
+    By well-seen signs the effulgent Ones she knew.
+    Shadowless stood they, with unwinking eyes,
+    And skins which never moist with sweat; their feet
+    Light-gliding o'er the ground, not touching it;
+    The unfading blossoms on their brows not soiled
+    By earthly dust, but ever fair and fresh.
+    Whilst, by their side, garbed so and visaged so,
+    But doubled by his shadow, stained with dust,
+    The flower-cups wiltering in his wreath, his skin
+    Pearly with sweat, his feet upon the earth,
+    And eyes a-wink, stood Nala. One by one
+    Glanced she on those divinities, then bent
+    Her gaze upon the Prince, and, joyous, said:--
+    "I know thee, and I name my rightful lord,
+    Taking Nishadha's chief." Therewith she drew
+    Modestly nigh, and held him by the cloth,
+    With large eyes beaming love, and round his neck
+    Hung the bright chaplet, love's delicious crown;
+    So choosing him--him only--whom she named
+    Before the face of all to be her lord.
+      Oh, then brake forth from all those suitors proud,
+    "Ha!" and "Aho!" But from the gods and saints,
+    "Sadhu! well done! well done!" And all admired
+    The happy Prince, praising the grace of him;
+    While Virasena's son, delightedly,
+    Spake to the slender-waisted these fond words:--
+    "Fair Princess! since, before all gods and men,
+    Thou makest me thy choice, right glad am I
+    Of this thy mind, and true lord will I be.
+    For so long, loveliest, as my breath endures,
+    Thine am I! Thus I plight my troth to thee."
+    So, with joined palms, unto that beauteous maid
+    His gentle faith he pledged, rejoicing her;
+    And, hand in hand, radiant with mutual love,
+    Before great Agni and the gods they passed,
+    The world's protectors worshipping.
+                                       Then those,
+    The lords of life, the powerful Ones, bestowed--
+    Being well-pleased--on Nala, chosen so,
+    Eight noble boons. The boon which Indra gave
+    Was grace, at times of sacrifice, to see
+    The visible god approach, with step divine;
+    And Agni's boon was this, that he would come
+    Whenever Nala called--for everywhere
+    Hut�sa shineth, and all worlds are his;
+    Yama gave skill in cookery, steadfastness
+    In virtue; and Varuna, King of Floods,
+    Bade all the waters ripple at his call.
+    These boons the high gods doubled by the gift
+    Of bright wreaths wove with magic blooms of heaven;
+    And those bestowed, ascended to their seats.
+    Also with wonder and with joy returned
+    The Rajas and the Maharajas all,
+    Full of the marriage-feast; for Bhima made,
+    In pride and pleasure, stately nuptials;
+    So Damayanti and the Prince were wed.
+      Then, having tarried as is wont, that lord--
+    Nishadha's chief--took the King's leave, and went
+    Unto his city, bringing home with him
+    His jewel of all womanhood, with whom
+    Blissful he lived, as lives by Sachi's side
+    The slayer of the Demons. Like a sun
+    Shone Nala on his throne, ruling his folk
+    In strength and virtue, guardian of his state.
+    Also the Aswamedha Rite he made
+    Greatest of rites, the Offering of the Horse,
+    As did Yay�ti; and all other acts
+    Of worship; and to sages gave rich gifts.
+      Many dear days of much delicious love,
+    In pleasant gardens and in shadowy groves,
+    Passed they together, sojourning like gods.
+    And Damayanti bore unto her lord
+    A boy named Indrasen, and next, a girl
+    Named Indrasena. So in happiness
+    The good Prince governed, seeing all his lands
+    Wealthy and well, in piety and peace.
+      Now at the choosing of Nishadha's chief
+    By Bhima's daughter, when those lords of life--
+    The effulgent gods--departed, Dwapara
+    They saw with Kali, coming. Indra said--
+    The Demon-slayer--spying these approach:--
+    "Whither, with Dwapara, goest thou to-day,
+    O Kali?" And the sombre Shade replied:--
+    "To Damayanti's high Swayamvara
+    I go, to make her mine, since she hath passed
+    Into my heart." But Indra, laughing, said:--
+    "Ended is that Swayamvara; for she
+    Hath taken Raja Nala for her lord,
+    Before us all," But Kali, hearing this,
+    Breaks into wrath--while he stood worshipping
+    That band divine--and furiously cries:--
+    "If she hath set a man above the gods,
+    To wed with him, for such sin let there fall
+    Doom, rightful, swift, and terrible, on her!"
+    "Nay," answered unto him those heavenly ones,
+    "But Damayanti chose with our good-will;
+    And what maid but would choose so fair a prince,
+    Seeing he hath all qualities, and knows
+    Virtue, and rightly practises the vows,
+    And reads the four great Vedas, and, what's next,
+    The Holy Stories, whilst, perpetually,
+    The gods are honored in his house with gifts?
+    No hurt he does, kind to all living things;
+    True of word is he, faithful, liberal, just;
+    Steadfast and patient, temperate and pure;
+    A king of men is Nala, like the gods.
+    He that would curse a prince of such a mould,
+    Thou foolish Kali, lays upon himself
+    A sin to crush himself; the curse comes back
+    And sinks him in the bottomless vast gulf
+    Of Narak."
+              Thus the gods to Kali spake,
+    And mounted heavenward; whereupon that Shade,
+    Frowning, to Dwapara burst forth: "My rage
+    Beareth no curb. Henceforth in Nala I
+    Will dwell; his kingdom I will make to fall;
+    His bliss with Damayanti I will mar;
+    And thou within the dice shalt enter straight,
+    And help me, Dwapara! to drag him down,"
+      Into which compact entering, those repaired--
+    Kali and Dwapara--to Nala's house,
+    And haunted in Nishadha, where he ruled,
+    Seeking occasion 'gainst the blameless Prince.
+    Long watched they; twelve years rolled ere Kali saw
+    The fateful fault arrive; Nishadha's Lord,
+    Easing himself, and sprinkling hands and lips
+    With purifying water, passed to prayer,
+    His feet unwashed, offending. Kali straight
+    Possessed the heedless Raja, entering him.
+      That hour there sat with Nala, Pushkara
+    His brother; and the evil spirit hissed
+    Into the ear of Pushkara: "Ehi!
+    Arise, and challenge Nala at the dice.
+    Throw with the Prince! it may be thou shalt win
+    (Luck helping thee, and I) Nishadha's throne,
+    Town, treasures, palace--thou mayest gain them all."
+    And Pushkara, hearing Kali's evil voice,
+    Made near to Nala, with the dice in hand
+    (A great piece for the "Bull," and little ones
+    For "Cows," and Kali hiding in the Bull).
+    So Pushkara came to Nala's side and said:--
+    "Play with me, brother, at the 'Cows and Bull';"
+    And, being put off, cried mockingly, "Nay, play!"
+    Shaming the Prince, whose spirit chafed to leave
+    A gage unfaced; but when Vidarbha's gem,
+    The Princess, heard that challenge, Nala rose:
+    "Yea, Pushkara, I will play!" fiercely he said;
+    And to the game addressed.
+                              His gems he lost,
+    Armlets and belt and necklet; next the gold
+    Of the palace and its vessels; then the cars
+    Yoked with swift steeds; and last, the royal robes:
+    For, cast by cast, the dice against him fell,
+    Bewitched by Kali; and, cast after cast,
+    The passion of the dice kept hold on him,
+    Until not one of all his faithfullest
+    Could stay the madman's hand and gamester's heart
+    Of who was named "Subduer of his Foes."
+      The townsmen gathered with the ministers:
+    Into that palace gate they thronged (my King!)
+    To see their lord, if so they might abate
+    This sickness of his soul. The charioteer,
+    Forth standing from their midst, low worshipping,
+    Spake thus to Damayanti: "Great Princess,
+    Before thy door all the grieved city sits.
+    Say to our lord for us, 'Thy folk are here;
+    They mourn that evil fortunes hold their liege,
+    Who was so high and just,'" Then she, deject,
+    Passed in, and to Nishadha's ruler said,
+    Her soft voice broken, and her bright eyes dimmed:--
+    "Raja, the people of thy town are here;
+    Before our gates they gather, citizens
+    And counsellors, desiring speech with thee;
+    In lealty they come. Wilt thou be pleased
+    We open to them? Wilt thou?" So she asked
+    Again and yet again; but not one word
+    To that sad lady with the lovely brows
+    Did Nala answer, wholly swallowed up
+    Of Kali and the gaming; so that those--
+    The citizens and counsellors--cried out,
+    "Our lord is changed! He is not Nala now!"
+    And home returned, ashamed and sorrowful;
+    Whilst ceaselessly endured that foolish play
+    Moon after moon--the Prince the loser still.
+      Then Damayanti, seeing so estranged
+    Her lord, the praised in song, the chief of men,
+    Watching, all self-possessed, his fantasy,
+    And how the gaming held him; sad, and 'feared,
+    The heavy fortunes pondering of her Prince;
+    Hating the fault, but to the offender kind;
+    And fearing Nala should be stripped of all,
+    This thing devised: Vrihatsen� she called--
+    Her foster-nurse and faithful ministrant--
+    True, skilful at all service, soft of speech,
+    Kind-hearted; and she said, "Vrihatsen�,
+    Go call the ministers to council now,
+    As though 'twere Nala bade; and make them count
+    What store is gone of treasure, what abides."
+    So went Vrihatsen�, and summoned those;
+    And when they knew all things, as from the Prince,
+    "Truly we, too, shall perish!" cried they then;
+    And all to Nala went, and all the town,
+    A second time assembling, thronged his gates:--
+    Which Bhima's daughter told; but not one word
+    Answered the Prince. And when she saw her lord
+    Put by her plea, utterly slighting it,
+    Back to her chamber, full of shame, she goes,
+    And there still hears the dice are falling ill;
+    Still hears of Nala daily losing more;
+    So that again unto her nurse she spake:--
+    "Send to Varshneya, good Vrihatsen�;
+    Say to the charioteer--in Nala's name--
+    'A great thing is to do. Come thou!'" And this--
+    So soon as Damayanti uttered it--
+    Vrihatsen�, by faithful servants, told
+    Unto the son of Vrishni, who, being come
+    In fitting time and place, heard the sweet Queen
+    In mournful music speak these wistful words:--
+    "Thou knowest how thy Raja trusted thee;
+    Now he hath fall'n on evil; succor him!
+    The more that Pushkara conquers in the play,
+    The wilder rage of gaming takes thy lord--
+    The more for Pushkara the dice light well,
+    More contrary they happen to the Prince:
+    Nor heeds he, as were meet, kindred or friends;
+    Nay, of myself he putteth by the prayer
+    Unanswered, being bewitched; for well I deem
+    This is not noble-minded Nala's sin,
+    But some ill spell possesseth him to shut
+    His ears to me. Thou, therefore, charioteer!
+    Our refuge be; do what I shall command;
+    My heart is dark with fear. Yea, it may fall
+    Our lord will perish. Wherefore, harnessing
+    His chosen steeds, which fly as swift as thought.
+    Take these our children in the chariot
+    And drive to Kundina, delivering there
+    Unto my kin the little ones, and car,
+    And horses. Afterwards abide thou there,
+    Or otherwhere depart."
+                           Varshneya heard
+    The words of Damayanti, and forthwith
+    In Nala's council-hall recounted them,
+    The chief men being present; who, thus met,
+    And long debating, gave him leave to go.
+    So with that royal pair to Bhima's town
+    Drove he, and at Vidarbha rendered up,
+    Together with the swift steeds and the car,
+    That sweet maid Indrasena, and the Prince
+    Indrasen, and made reverence to the King,
+    Saddened for sake of Nala. Afterwards
+    Taking his leave, unto Ayodhy�
+    Varshneya went, exceeding sorrowful,
+    And with King Rituparna (O my Prince!)
+    Took service as a charioteer.
+                                  These gone--
+    The praised-of-poets, Nala, still played on,
+    Till Pushkara his kingdom's wealth had won,
+    And whatso was to lose beside. Thereat
+    With scornful laugh mocked he that beggared Prince,
+    Saying, "One other throw; once more!--Yet sooth,
+    What canst thou stake? Nothing is left for thee
+    Save Damayanti; all the rest is mine.
+    Play we for Damayanti, if thou wilt."
+    But hearing this from Pushkara, the Prince
+    So in his heart by grief and shame was torn,
+    No word he uttered--only glared in wrath
+    Upon his mocker, upon Pushkara.
+    Then, his rich robes and jewels stripping off,
+    Uncovered, with one cloth, 'mid waiting friends
+    Sorrowful passed he forth, his great state gone;
+    The Princess, with one garment, following him,
+    Piteous to see. And there without the gates
+    Three nights they lay--Nashadha's King and Queen.
+    Upon the fourth day Pushkara proclaimed,
+    Throughout the city, "Whoso yieldeth help
+    To Nala, dieth! Let my will be known!"
+      So, for this bitter word of Pushkara's power
+    (O Yudhisthir!) the townsmen rendered not
+    Service nor love, but left them outcast there,
+    Unhelped, whom all the city should have helped.
+    Yet three nights longer tarried he, his drink
+    The common pool, his meat such fruits and roots
+    As miserable hunger plucks from earth:
+    Then fled they from those walls, the Prince going first,
+    The Princess following.
+                            After grievous days,
+    Pinched ever with sharp famine, Nala saw
+    A flock of gold-winged birds lighting anigh,
+    And to himself the famished Raja said:--
+    "Lo! here is food; this day we shall have store;"
+    Then lightly cast his cloth and covered them.
+    But these, fluttering aloft, bore with them there
+    Nala's one cloth; and, hovering overhead,
+    Uttered sharp-stinging words, reviling him
+    Even as he stood, naked to all the airs,
+    Downcast and desperate: "Thou brain-sick Prince!
+    We are the dice; we come to ravish hence
+    Thy last poor cloth; we were not well content
+    Thou shouldst depart owning a garment still."
+    And when he saw the dice take wings and fly,
+    Leaving him bare, to Damayanti spake
+    This melancholy Prince: "O Blameless One,
+    They by whose malice I am driven forth,
+    Finding no sustenance, sad, famine-gaunt--
+    They whose decree forbade Nishadha's folk
+    Should succor me, their Raja--these have come--
+    Demon and dice--and like to winged birds
+    Have borne away my cloth. To such shame fall'n,
+    Such utmost woe, wretched, demented--I
+    Thy lord am still, and counsel thee for good.
+    Attend! Hence be there many roads which go
+    Southwards: some pass Avanti's walls, and some
+    Skirt Rikshavan, the forest of the bears;
+    This wends to Vindhya's lofty peaks, and this
+    To the green banks where quick Payoshni runs
+    Seaward, between her hermitages, rich
+    In fruits and roots; and yon path leadeth thee
+    Unto Vidarbha; that to Kosala,
+    And therefrom southward--southward--far away."
+      So spake he to the Princess wistfully,
+    Between his words pointing along the paths,
+    Which she should take (O King!). But Bhima's child
+    Made answer, bowed with grief, her soft voice choked
+    With sobs, these piteous accents uttering:--
+      "My heart beats quick; my body's force is gone,
+    Thinking, dear Prince, on this which thou hast said,
+    Pointing along the paths. What! robbed of realm,
+    Stripped of thy wealth, bare, famished, parched with thirst,
+    Thus shall I leave thee in the untrodden wood?
+    Ah, no! While thou dost muse on dear days fled,
+    Hungry and weeping, I in this wild waste
+    Will charm thy griefs away, solacing thee.
+    The wisest doctors say, 'In every woe
+    No better physic is than wifely love,'
+    And, Nala, I will make it true to thee."
+      "Thou mak'st it true," he said; "thou sayest well,
+    Sweet Damayanti; neither is there friend
+    To sad men given better than a wife.
+    I had not thought to leave thee, foolish Love!
+    Why didst thou fear? Alas, 't is from myself
+    That I would fly--not thee, thou Faultless One!"
+      "Yet, if," the Princess answered, "Maharaja!
+    Thou hadst no thought to leave me, why by thee
+    Was the way pointed to Vidarbha's walls?
+    I know thou wouldst not quit me, noblest Lord,
+    Being thyself, but only if thy mind
+    Were sore distraught; and see, thou gazest still
+    Along the southward road, my dread thereby
+    Increasing, thou that wert as are the gods!
+    If it be thy fixed thought, 'Twere best she went
+    Unto her people'--be it so; I go;
+    But hand in hand with thee. Thus let us fare
+    Unto Vidarbha, where the King, my sire,
+    Will greet thee well, and honor thee; and we
+    Happy and safe within his gates shall dwell."
+      "As is thy father's kingdom," Nala said,
+    "So, once, was mine. Be sure, whatever betide,
+    Never will I go thither! How, in sooth,
+    Should I, who came there glorious, gladdening thee,
+    Creep back, thy shame and scorn, disconsolate?"
+      So to sweet Damayanti spake the Prince,
+    Beguiling her, whom now one cloth scarce clad--
+    For but one garb they shared; and thus they strayed
+    Hither and thither, faint for meat and drink,
+    Until a little hut they spied; and there,
+    Nishadha's monarch, entering, sat him down
+    On the bare ground, the Princess by his side--
+    Vidarbha's glory, wearing that scant cloth,
+    Without a mat, soiled by the dust and mire.
+    At Damayanti's side he sank asleep,
+    Outworn; and beauteous Damayanti slept,
+    Spent with strange trials--- she so gently reared,
+    So soft and holy. But while slumbering thus,
+    No peaceful rest knew Nala. Trouble-tossed
+    He woke, forever thinking of his realm
+    Lost, lieges estranged, and all the griefs
+    Of that wild wood. These on his heart came back,
+    And, "What if I shall do it? What, again,
+    If I shall do it not?" So murmured he.
+    "Would death be better, or to leave my Love?
+    For my sake she endures this woe, my fate
+    Too fondly sharing; freed from me, her steps
+    Would turn unto her people. At my side,
+    Sure suffering is her portion; but apart,
+    It might be she would somewhere comfort find."
+      Thus with himself debating o'er and o'er,
+    The Prince resolves abandonment were best.
+    "For how," saith he, "should any in the wood
+    Harm her, so radiant in her grace, so good,
+    So noble, virtuous, faithful, famous, pure?"
+    Thus mused his miserable mind, seduced
+    By Kali's cursed mischiefs to betray
+    His sleeping wife. Then, seeing his loin-cloth gone,
+    And Damayanti clad, he drew anigh,
+    Thinking to take of hers, and muttering,
+    "May I not rend one fold, and she not know?"
+    So meditating, round the cabin crept
+    Prince Nala, feeling up and down its walls;
+    And, presently, within the purlieus found
+    A naked knife, keen-tempered; therewithal
+    Shred he away a piece, and bound it on;
+    Then made with desperate steps to seek the waste,
+    Leaving the Princess sleeping; but, anon,
+    Turns back again in changeful mood and glides
+    Into the hut, and, gazing wistfully
+    On slumbering Damayanti, moans with tears:--
+    "Ah, Sweetheart! whom nor wind nor sun before
+    Hath ever rudely touched; thou to be couched
+    In this poor hut, its floor thy bed, and I,
+    Thy lord, deserting thee, stealing from thee
+    Thy last robe! O my Love with the bright smile,
+    My slender-waisted Queen! Will she not wake
+    To madness? Yea, and when she wanders lone
+    In the dark wood, haunted with beasts and snakes,
+    How will it fare with Bhima's tender child,
+    The bright and peerless? O my life, my wife!
+    May the great sun, may the Eight Powers of air,
+    The Rudras, Maruts, and the Aswins twain,
+    Guard thee, thou true and dear one, on thy way!"
+      So to his sleeping Queen--on all the earth
+    Unmatched for beauty--spake he piteously;
+    Then breaks away once more, by Kali driven.
+    But yet another and another time
+    Stole back into the hut, for one last gaze--
+    That way by Kali dragged, this way by love.
+    Two hearts he had--the trouble-stricken Prince--
+    One beating "Go," one throbbing "Stay"; and thus
+    Backwards and forwards swung his mind between,
+    Till, mastered by the sorrow and the spell,
+    Frantic flies Nala, leaving there alone
+    That tender-sleeper, sighing as she slept.
+    He flies--the soulless prey of Kali flies;
+    Still, while he hurries through the forest drear,
+    Thinking upon that sweet face he hath left.
+      Far distant (King!) was Nala, when, refreshed,
+    The slender-waisted wakened, shuddering
+    At the wood's silence; but when, seeking him,
+    She found no Nala, sudden anguish seized
+    Her frightened heart, and, lifting high her voice,
+    Loud cries she: "Maharaja! Nishadha's Prince!
+    Ha, Lord! ha, Maharaja! ha, Master! why
+    Hast thou abandoned me? Now am I lost,
+    Am doomed, undone, left in this lonesome gloom.
+    Wert thou not named, O Nala, true and just?
+    Yet art thou such, to quit me while I slept?
+    And hast thou so forsaken me, thy wife--
+    Thine own fond wife--who never wrought thee wrong
+    When by all others wrong was wrought on thee?
+    Mak'st thou it good to me, now, Lord of men,
+    That love which long ago before the gods
+    Thou didst proclaim? Alas! Death will not come,
+    Except at his appointed time to men,
+    And therefore for a little I shall live,
+    Whom thou hast lived to leave. Nay, 't is a jest!
+    Ah, Truant, Runaway, enough thou play'st!
+    Come forth, my Lord!--I am afraid! Come forth!
+    Linger not, for I see--I spy thee there;
+    Thou art within yon thicket! Why not speak
+    One word, Nishadha? Nala, cruel Prince!
+    Thou know'st me, lone, and comest not to calm
+    My terrors, and be with me in my need.
+    Art gone indeed? Then I'll not mourn myself,
+    For whatso may befall me; I must think
+    How desolate thou art, and weep for thee.
+    What wilt thou do, thirsty and hungry, spent
+    With wandering, when, at nightfall, 'mid the trees
+    Thou hast me not, sweet Prince, to comfort thee?"
+      Thereat, distracted by her bitter fears,
+    Like one whose heart is fire, forward and back
+    She runs, hither and thither, weeping, wild.
+    One while she sinks to earth, one while she springs
+    Quick to her feet; now utterly overcome
+    By fear and fasting, now by grief driven mad,
+    Wailing and sobbing; till anon, with moans
+    And broken sighs and tears, Bhima's fair child,
+    The ever-faithful wife, speaks thus again:--
+    "By whomsoever's spell this harm hath fall'n
+    On Nishadha's Lord, I pray that evil one
+    May bear a bitterer plague than Nala doth!
+    To him, whoever set my guileless Prince
+    On these ill deeds, I pray some direr might
+    May bring far darker days, and life to live
+    More miserable still!"
+                          Thus, woe-begone,
+    Mourned that great-hearted wife her vanished lord,
+    Seeking him ever in the gloomy shades,
+    By wild beasts haunted. Roaming everywhere,
+    Like one possessed, frantic, disconsolate,
+    Went Bhima's daughter. "Ha, ha! Maharaja!"
+    So crying runs she, so in every place
+    Is heard her ceaseless wail, as when is heard
+    The fish-hawk's cry, which screams, and circling screams,
+    And will not stint complaining.
+                                    Suddenly,
+    Straying too near his den, a serpent's coils
+    Seized Bhima's daughter. A prodigious snake,
+    Glittering and strong, and furious for food,
+    Knitted about the Princess. She, o'erwhelmed
+    With horror, and the cold enfolding death,
+    Spends her last breaths in pitiful laments
+    For Nala, not herself. "Ah, Prince!" she cried,
+    "That would have saved me, who must perish now,
+    Seized in the lone wood by this hideous snake,
+    Why art thou not beside me? What will be
+    Thy thought, Nishadha! me remembering
+    In days to come, when, from the curse set free,
+    Thou hast thy noble mind again, thyself,
+    Thy wealth--all save thy wife? Then thou'lt be sad,
+    Be weary, wilt need food and drink; but I
+    Shall minister no longer. Who will tend
+    My Love, my Lord, my Lion among kings,
+    My blameless Nala--Damayanti dead?"
+      That hour a hunter, roving through the brake,
+    Heard her bewailing, and with quickened steps
+    Made nigh, and, spying a woman, almond-eyed,
+    Lovely, forlorn, by that fell monster knit,
+    He ran, and, as he came, with keen shaft clove,
+    Through gaping mouth and crown, th'unwitting worm,
+    Slaying it. Then the woodman from its folds
+    Freed her, and laved the snake's slime from her limbs
+    With water of the pool, comforting her
+    And giving food; and afterwards (my King!)
+    Inquiry made: "What doest, in this wood,
+    Thou with the fawn's eyes? And how earnest thou,
+    My mistress, to such pit of misery?"
+      And Damayanti, spoken fair by him,
+    Recounted all which had befallen her.
+      But, gazing on her graces, scantly clad
+    With half a cloth, those smooth, full sides, those breasts
+    Beauteously swelling, form of faultless mould,
+    Sweet youthful face, fair as the moon at full,
+    And dark orbs, by long curving lashes swept;
+    Hearing her tender sighs and honeyed speech,
+    The hunter fell to hot desire; he dared
+    Essay to woo, with whispered words at first,
+    And next by amorous approach, the Queen;
+    Who, presently perceiving what he would,
+    And all that baseness of him--being so pure,
+    So chaste, and faithful--like a blazing torch
+    Took fire of scorn and anger 'gainst the man,
+    Her true soul burning at him, till the wretch,
+    Wicked in heart, but impotent of will,
+    Glared on her, splendidly invincible
+    In weakness, loftily defying wrong,
+    A living flame of lighted chastity.
+    She then--albeit so desolate, so lone,
+    Abandoned by her lord, stripped of her state--
+    Like a proud princess stormed, flinging away
+    All terms of supplication, cursing him
+    With wrath which scorched: "If I am clean in heart
+    And true in thought unto Nishadha's King,
+    Then mayest thou, vile pursuer of the beasts,
+    Sink to the earth, stone dead!"
+                                    While she did speak,
+    The hunter breathless fell to earth, stone dead,
+    As falls a tree-trunk blasted by the bolt.
+      That ravisher destroyed, the lotus-eyed
+    Fared forward, threading still the fearful wood,
+    Lonely and dim, with trill of jhillikas[22]
+    Resounding, and fierce noise of many beasts
+    Laired in its shade, lions and leopards, deer,
+    Close-hiding tigers, sullen bisons, wolves,
+    And shaggy bears. Also the glades of it
+    Were filled with fowl which crept, or flew, and cried.
+    A home for savage men and murderers,
+    Thick with a world of trees, whereof was sal,
+    Sharp-seeded, weeping gum; knotted bambus,
+    Dhavas with twisted roots; smooth aswatthas,
+    Large-leaved, and creeping through the cloven rocks;
+    Tindukas, iron-fibred, dark of grain;
+    Ingudas, yielding oil; and kinsukas,
+    With scarlet flowerets flaming. Thronging these
+    Were arjuns and arishta-clumps, which bear
+    The scented purple clusters; syandans,
+    And tall silk-cotton trees, and mango-belts
+    With silvery spears; and wild rose-apple, blent
+    'Mid lodhra-tufts and khadirs, interknit
+    By clinging rattans, climbing everywhere
+    From stem to stem. Therewith were intermixed--
+    Round pools where rocked the lotus--�malaks,
+    Plakshas with fluted leaves, kadambas sweet,
+    Udumbaras; and, on the jungle-edge,
+    Tangles of reed and jujube, whence there rose
+    Bel-trees and nyagrodhas, dropping roots
+    Down from the air; broad-leaved priy�las, palms
+    And date-trees, and the gold myrobalan,
+    With copper-leaved vibh�tikas. All these
+    Crowded the wood; and many a crag it held,
+    With precious ore of metals interveined;
+    And many a creeper-covered cave wherein
+    The spoken word rolled round; and many a cleft
+    Where the thick stems were like a wall to see;
+    And many a winding stream and reedy jheel,
+    And glassy lakelet, where the woodland beasts
+    In free peace gathered.
+                            Wandering onward thus,
+    The Princess saw far-gliding forms of dread--
+    Pis�chas, Rakshasas, ill sprites and fiends
+    Which haunt, with swinging snakes, the undergrowth.
+    Dark pools she saw, and drinking-holes, and peaks
+    Wherefrom break down in tumbling cataracts
+    The wild white waters, marvellous to hear.
+    Also she passed--this daughter of a king--
+    Where snorted the fierce buffaloes, and where
+    The gray boars rooted for their food, and where
+    The black bears growled, and serpents in the grass
+    Rustled and hissed. But all along that way
+    Safe paced she in her majesty of grace,
+    High fortune, courage, constancy, and right--
+    Vidarbha's glory--seeking, all alone,
+    Lost Nala; and less terror at these sights
+    Came to sad Damayanti for herself--
+    Threading this dreadful forest--than for him.
+    Most was her mind on Nala's fate intent.
+    Bitterly grieving stood the sweet Princess
+    Upon a rock, her tender limbs a-thrill
+    With heavy fears for Nala while she spake:--
+      "Broad-chested Chief! my long-armed Lord of men!
+    Nishadha's King! Ah! whither art thou gone.
+    Leaving me thus in the unpeopled wood?
+    The Aswamedha sacrifice thou mad'st,
+    And all the rites and royal gifts hast given,
+    A lion-hearted Prince, holy and true
+    To all save me! That which thou didst declare,
+    Hand in hand with me--once so fond and kind--
+    Recall it now--thy sacred word, thy vow,
+    Whithersoever, Raja, thou art fled.
+    Think how the message of the gold-winged swans
+    Was spoken, by thine own lips, then to me!
+    True men keep faith; this is the teaching taught
+    In Vedas, Angas, and Upangas all,
+    Hear which we may; wilt thou not, therefore, Prince--
+    Wilt thou not, terror of thy foes, keep faith,
+    Making thy promise good to cleave to me?
+    Ha, Nala, Lord! Am I not surely still
+    Thy chosen, thy beloved? Answerest not
+    Thy wife in this dark, horror-haunted shade?
+    The tyrant of the jungle, fierce and fell,
+    With jaws agape to take me, crouches nigh,
+    And thou not here to rescue me--not thou,
+    Who saidst none other in the world was dear
+    But Damayanti! Prove the fond speech true,
+    Uttered so often! Why repliest not
+    To me, thy well-beloved; me, distraught,
+    Longed for and longing; me, my Prince and pride,
+    That am so weary, weak, and miserable,
+    Stained with the mire, in this torn cloth half clad,
+    Alone and weeping, seeing no help near?
+    Ah, stag of all the herd! leav'st thou thy hind
+    Astray, regarding not these tears which roll?
+    My Nala, Maharaja! It is I
+    Who cry, thy Damayanti, true and pure,
+    Lost in the wood, and still thou answerest not!
+    High-born, high-hearted, full of grace and strength
+    In all thy limbs, shall I not find thee soon
+    On yonder hill? Shall I not see, at last,
+    In some track of this grim, beast-peopled wood,
+    Standing, or seated, or upon the leaves
+    Lying, or coming, him who is of men
+    The glory, but for me the grief-maker?
+    If not, whom shall I question, woe-begone,
+    Saying, 'In any region of this wood
+    Hast thou, perchance, seen Nala?' Is there none,
+    In all the forest, would reply to me
+    With tidings of my lord, wandered away,
+    Kingly in mind and form, of hosts of foes
+    The conqueror? Who will say, with blessed voice,
+    'That Raja with the lotus-eyes is near,
+    Whom thou dost seek'?--Nay, here comes one to ask,
+    The yellow forest-king, his great jaws armed
+    With fourfold fangs. A tiger standeth now
+    Face to face on my path; I'll speak with him
+    Fearlessly: 'Dreadful chief of all this waste,
+    Thou art the sovereign of the beasts, and I
+    Am daughter of Vidarbha's King; my name,
+    The Princess Damayanti; know thou me,
+    Wife of Nishadha's Lord--of Nala--styled
+    "Subduer of his Foes"? Him seek I here--
+    Abandoned, sorrow-stricken, miserable.
+    Comfort me, mighty beast, if so thou canst,
+    Saying thou hast seen Nala; but if this
+    Thou canst not do, then, ah, thou savage lord,
+    Terrible friend, devour me, setting me
+    Free from all woes!' The tiger answereth not;
+    He turns, and quits me in my tears, to stalk
+    Down where the river glitters through the reeds,
+    Seeking its seaward way. Then will I pray
+    Unto yon sacred mount of clustered crags,
+    Broad-shouldered, shining, lifting high to heaven
+    Its diverse-colored peaks, where the mind climbs
+    Its hid heart rich with silver veins, and gold,
+    And stored with many a precious gem unseen.
+    Clear towers it o'er the forest, broad and bright
+    Like a green banner; and the sides of it
+    House many a living thing--lions and boars,
+    Tigers and elephants, and bears and deer.
+    Softly around me from its feathered flocks
+    The songs ring, perched upon the kinsuk trees,
+    The asokas, vakuls, and punn�ga boughs,
+    Or hidden in the karnikara leaves,
+    And tendrils of the dhava or the fig;
+    Full of great glens it soars, where waters leap
+    And bright birds lave. This king of hills I sue
+    For tidings of my lord. O Mountain Lord,
+    Far-seen and celebrated hill! that cleav'st
+    The blue of the sky, refuge of living things,
+    Most noble eminence, I worship thee;
+    Thee I salute, who am a monarch's child,
+    The daughter and the consort of a prince,
+    The high-born Damayanti, unto whom
+    Bhima, Vidarbha's chief--that puissant lord--
+    Was sire, renowned o'er earth. Protector he
+    Of the four castes, performer of the rites
+    Called Rajasuya and the Aswamedha--
+    A bounteous giver, first of rulers, known
+    For his large shining eyes; holy and just,
+    Fast to his word, unenvious, sweet of speech,
+    Gentle and valiant, dutiful and pure;
+    The guardian of Vidarbha, of his foes
+    The slayer. Know me, O Majestic Mount!
+    For that King's daughter, bending low to thee.
+    In Nishadha lived the father of my lord,
+    The Maharaja Virasena named,
+    Wealthy and great; whose son, of regal blood,
+    High-fortuned, powerful, and noble-souled,
+    Ruleth by right the realm paternal: he
+    Is Nala, terror of all enemies;
+    Dark Nala, praised-in-song; Nala the just,
+    The pure; deep-seen in scriptures, sweet of speech,
+    Drinker of Soma-juice, and worshipper
+    Of Agni; sacrificing, giving gifts;
+    First in the wars, a perfect, princely lord.
+    His wife am I, Great Mountain! and come here
+    Fortuneless, husbandless, and spiritless,
+    Everywhere seeking him, my best of men.
+    O Mount, whose doubled ridge stamps on the sky
+    Yon line, by fivescore splendid pinnacles
+    Indented! tell me, in this gloomy wood
+    Hast thou seen Nala? Nala, wise and bold,
+    Like a tusked elephant for might; long armed,
+    Indomitable, gallant, glorious, true;
+    Nala, Nishadha's chief--hast thou seen him?
+    O Mountain, why consolest thou me not,
+    Answering one word to sorrowful, distressed,
+    Lonely, lost Damayanti?"
+                            Then she cried:--
+    "But answer for thyself, Hero and Lord!
+    If thou art in the forest, show thyself!
+    Alas! when shall I hear that voice, as low,
+    As tender as the murmur of the rain
+    When great clouds gather; sweet as Amrit-drink?
+    Thy voice, once more, my Nala, calling to me
+    Full softly, 'Damayanti!'--dearest Prince,
+    That would be music soothing to these ears
+    As sound of sacred Veda; that would stay
+    My pains and comfort me, and bring me peace."
+      Thereafter, turning from the mount, she went
+    Northwards, and journeying on three nights and days
+    Came to a green incomparable grove
+    By holy men inhabited; a haunt
+    Placid as Paradise, whose indwellers
+    Like to Vasistha, Bhrigu, Atri, were--
+    Those ancient saints. Restraining sense they lived,
+    Heedful in meats, subduing passion, pure,
+    Breathing within; their food water and herbs;
+    Ascetics; very holy; seeking still
+    The heavenward road; clad in the bark of trees
+    And skins--all gauds of earth being put by.
+    This hermitage, peopled by gentle ones,
+    Glad Damayanti spied, circled with herds
+    Of wild things grazing fearless, and with troops
+    Of monkey-folk o'erheard; and when she saw,
+    Her heart was lightened, for its quietness.
+    So drew she nigh--that lovely wanderer--
+    Bright-browed, long-tressed, large-hipped, full-bosomed, fair,
+    With pearly teeth and honeyed mouth, in gait
+    Right queenly still, having those long black eyes--
+    The wife of Virasena's son, the gem
+    Of all dear women, glory of her time;
+    Sad Damayanti entered their abode,
+    Those holy men saluting reverently,
+    With modest body bowed. Thus stood she there
+    And all the saints spake gently, "_Sw�gatam_--
+    Welcome!" and gave the greetings which are meet;
+    And afterwards, "Repose thyself," they said;
+    "What wouldst thou have of us?" Then, with soft words
+    The slender-waisted spake: "Of all these here,
+    So worshipful in sacrifice and rite--
+    'Mid gentle beasts and birds--in tasks and toils
+    And blameless duties--is it well?" And they
+    Answered: "We thank you, noble lady, well.
+    Tell us, most beauteous one, thy name, and say
+    What thou desirest. Seeing thee so fair,
+    So worthy, yet so sorrowful, our minds
+    Are lost in wonder. Weep not. Comfort take.
+    Art thou the goddess of the wood? Art thou
+    The Mountain-Yakshi, or, belike, some sprite
+    Which lives under the river? Tell us true,
+    Gentle and faultless form!"
+                                 Whereat reply
+    Thus made she to the Rishis: "None of these
+    Am I, good saints. No goddess of the wood,
+    Nor yet a mountain nor a river sprite;
+    A woman ye behold, most only ones,
+    Whose moving story I will tell you true.
+    The Raja of Vidarbha is my sire,
+    Bhima his name, and--Best of Twice-born!--know
+    My husband is Nishadha's Chief, the famed,
+    The wise and valiant and victorious Prince,
+    The high and lordly Nala; of the gods
+    A steadfast worshipper; of Br�hmanas
+    The friend; his people's shield; honored and strong,
+    Truth-speaking, skilled in arms, sagacious, just;
+    Terrible to his foes, fortunate, lord
+    Of many conquered towns; a godlike man,
+    Princeliest of princes--Nala--one that hath
+    A countenance like the full moon's for light,
+    And eyes of lotus. This true offerer
+    Of sacrifices, this close votary
+    Of Vedas and Ved�ngas, in the war
+    Deadly to enemies, like sun and moon
+    For splendor--by some certain evil ones
+    Being defied to dice, my virtuous Prince
+    Was, by their wicked acts, of realm despoiled--
+    Wealth, jewels, all. I am his woful wife,
+    The Princess Damayanti. Seeking him
+    Through thickets have I roamed, over rough hills,
+    By crag and river and the reedy lake,
+    By marsh and waterfall and jungle-bush,
+    In quest of him--my lord, my warrior,
+    My hero--and still roam, uncomforted.
+    Worshipful brethren! say if he hath come--
+    Nishadha's Chief, my Nala, hitherward
+    Unto your pleasant homes--he, for whose sake
+    I wander in the dismal pathless wood
+    With bears and tigers haunted--terrible!
+    Ah! if I find him not, ere there be passed
+    Many more nights and days, peace will I win;
+    For death shall set my mournful spirit free.
+    What cause have I to live, lacking my Prince?
+    Why should I longer breathe, whose heart is dead
+    With sorrow for my lord?"
+                               To Bhima's child,
+    So in the wood bewailing, made reply
+    Those holy, truthful men: "Beautiful One!
+    The future is for thee; fair will it fall!
+    Our eyes, by long devotions opened, see--
+    Even now--thy lord; thou shalt behold him soon,
+    Nishadha's chief, the famous Nala, strong
+    In battle, loving justice. Yea, this Prince
+    Thou wilt regain, Bhima's sad daughter! freed
+    From troubles, purged of sin; and witness him--
+    With all his gems and glories--governing
+    Nishadha once again, invincible,
+    Joy of his friends and terror of his foes.
+    Yea, Noblest, thou shalt have thy love anew
+    In days to come."
+                      So speaking, from the sight
+    Of Damayanti, at that instant, passed
+    Hermits, with hermitage and holy fires,
+    Evanishing. In wonderment she stood,
+    Gazing bewildered. Then the Princess cried:--
+    "Was it in dream I saw them? Whence befell
+    This unto me? Where are the brethren gone,
+    The ring of huts, the pleasant stream that ran
+    With birds upon its crystal banks, the grove
+    Delightful, with its fruits and flowers?" Long while
+    Pondered and wondered Damayanti there,
+    Her bright smile fled, pale, strengthless, sorrowful;
+    Then to another region of the wood,
+    With sighs, and eyes welling great tears, she passed,
+    Lamenting; till a beauteous tree she spied--
+    The Asoka, best of trees. Fair rose it there
+    Beside the forest, glowing with the flame
+    Of golden and crimson blossoms, and its boughs
+    Full of sweet-singing birds.
+                                 "_Ahovat_--Look!"
+    She cried: "Ah, lovely tree, that wavest here
+    Thy crown of countless, shining, clustering blooms
+    As thou wert woodland king--Asoka tree,
+    Tree called 'the sorrow-ender,' heart's-ease tree!
+    Be what thy name saith--end my sorrow now,
+    Saying, ah, bright Asoka! thou hast seen
+    My Prince, my dauntless Nala; seen that lord
+    Whom Damayanti loves and his foes fear;
+    Seen great Nishadha's Chief, so dear to me,
+    His tender princely skin in rended cloth
+    Scantily clad. Hath he passed wandering
+    Under thy branches, grievously forlorn?
+    Answer, Asoka! 'Sorrow-ender,' speak!
+    That I go sorrowless, O heart's-ease, be
+    Truly heart-easing--ease my heart of pain."
+      Thus, wild with grief, she spake unto the tree,
+    Round and round walking, as to reverence it;
+    And then, unanswered, the sweet lady sped
+    Through wastes more dreadful, passing many a
+    Many still-gliding rillets, many a peak
+    Tree-clad, with beasts and birds of wondrous kind,
+    In dark ravines, and caves, and lonely glooms.
+    These things saw Damayanti, Bhima's child,
+    Seeking her lord.
+                      At last, on the long road,
+    She, whose soft smile was once so beautiful,
+    A caravan encountered. Merchantmen
+    With trampling horses, elephants, and wains,
+    Made passage of a river, running slow
+    In cool, clear waves. The quiet waters gleamed,
+    Shining and wide outspread, between the canes
+    Which bordered it, wherefrom echoed the cries
+    Of fish-hawks, curlews, and red chakrav�ks,
+    With sounds of leaping fish and water-snakes,
+    And tortoises, amid its shoals and flats
+    Sporting or feeding.
+                         When she spied that throng--
+    Heart-maddened with her anguish, weak and wan,
+    Half clad, bloodless and thin, her long black locks
+    Matted with dust--breathlessly breaks she in
+    Upon them--Nala's wife--so beauteous once,
+    So honored. Seeing her, some fled in fear;
+    Some gazed, speechless with wonder; some called out,
+    Mocking the piteous face by words of scorn;
+    But some (my King!) had pity of her woe,
+    And spake her fair, inquiring: "Who art thou?
+    And whence? And in this grove what seekest thou,
+    To come so wild? Thy mien astonisheth.
+    Art of our kind, or art thou something strange,
+    The spirit of the forest, or the hill,
+    Or river valley? Tell us true; then we
+    Will buy thy favor. If, indeed, thou art
+    Yakshini, Rakshasi, or she-creature
+    Haunting this region, be propitious! Send
+    Our caravan in safety on its path,
+    That we may quickly, by thy fortune, go
+    Homeward, and all fair chances fall to us."
+      Hereby accosted, softly gave response
+    That royal lady--weary for her lord--
+    Answering the leader of the caravan,
+    And those that gathered round, a marvelling throng
+    Of men and boys and elders: "Oh, believe
+    I am as you, of mortal birth, but born
+    A Raja's child, and made a Raja's wife.
+    Him seek I, Chieftain of Nishadha, named
+    Prince Nala--famous, glorious, first in war.
+    If ye know aught of him, my king, my joy,
+    My tiger of the jungle, my lost lord,
+    Quick, tell me, comfort me!"
+                               Then one who led
+    Their line--the merchant Suchi--answering,
+    Spake to the peerless Princess: "Hear me now.
+    I am the captain of this caravan,
+    But nowhere any named by Nala's name
+    Have I, or these, beheld. Of evil beasts
+    The woods were full--cheetahs and bears and cats,
+    Tigers and elephants, bison and boar;
+    Those saw we in the brake on every side,
+    But nowhere nought of human shape, save thee.
+    May Manibhadra have us in his grace--
+    The Lord of Yakshas--as I tell thee truth!"
+      Then sadly spake she to the trader-chief
+    And to his band: "Whither wend ye, I pray?
+    Please ye, acquaint me where this S�rth�[23] goes."
+      Replied the captain: "Unto Chedi's realm,
+    Where rules the just Sub�hu, journey we,
+    To sell our merchandise, daughter of men!"
+      Thus by the chieftain of the band informed,
+    The peerless Princess journeyed with them, still
+    Seeking her lord. And at the first the way
+    Fared through another forest, dark and deep;
+    Afterwards came the traders to a pool
+    Broad, everywhere delightful, odorous
+    With cups of opened lotus, and its shores
+    Green with rich grass, and edged with garden trees--
+    A place of flowers and fruits and singing birds.
+    So cool and clear and peacefully it gleamed,
+    That men and cattle, weary with the march,
+    Clamored to pitch; and, on their chieftain's sign,
+    The pleasant hollow entered they, and camped--
+    All the long caravan--at sunset's hour.
+      There, in the quiet of the middle night,
+    Deep slumbered these; when, sudden on them fell
+    A herd of elephants, thirsting to drink,
+    In rut, the mada[24] oozing from their heads.
+    And when those great beasts spied the caravan,
+    And smelled the tame cows of their kind, they rushed
+    Headlong, and, mad with must, overwhelming all,
+    With onset vast and irresistible.
+    As when from some tall peak into the plain
+    Thunder and smoke and crash the rolling rocks,
+    Through splintered stems and thorns breaking their path,
+    So swept the herd to where, beside the pool,
+    Those sleepers lay; and trampled them to earth
+    Half-risen, helpless, shrieking in the dark,
+    "Haha! the elephants!" Of those unslain,
+    Some in the thickets sought a shelter; some,
+    Yet dazed with sleep, stood panic-stricken, mute;
+    Till here with tusks, and there with trunks, the beasts
+    Gored them, and battered them, and trod them flat
+    Under their monstrous feet. Then might be seen
+    Camels with camel-drivers, perishing,
+    And men flying in fear, who struck at men--
+    Terror and death and clamor everywhere:
+    While some, despairing, cast themselves to earth;
+    And some, in fleeing, fell and died; and some
+    Climbed to the tree-tops. Thus on every side
+    Scattered and ruined was that caravan--
+    Cattle and merchants--by the herd assailed.
+    So hideous was the tumult,-all three worlds
+    Seemed filled with fright; and one was heard to cry:--
+    "The fire is in the tents! fly for your lives!
+    Stay not!" And others cried: "Look where we leave
+    Our treasures trodden down; gather them! Halt!
+    Why run ye, losing ours and yours? Nay, stay!
+    Stand ye, and we will stand!" And then to these
+    One voice cried, "Stand!" another, "Fly! we die!"
+    Answered by those again who shouted, "Stand!
+    Think what we lose, O cowards!"
+                                    While this rout
+    Raged, amid dying groans and sounds of fear,
+    The Princess, waking startled, terror-struck,
+    Saw such a sight as might the boldest daunt--
+    Such scene as those great lovely lotus-eyes
+    Ne'er gazed upon before. Sick with new dread--
+    Her breath suspended 'twixt her lips--she rose
+    And heard, of those surviving, some one moan
+    Amidst his fellows: "From whose evil act
+    Is this the fruit? Hath worship not been paid
+    To mighty Manibhadra? Gave we not
+    The reverence due to Vaishravan, that King
+    Of all the Yakshas? Was not offering made
+    At outset to the spirits which impede?
+    Is this the evil portent of the birds?
+    Were the stars adverse? or what else hath fall'n?"
+      And others said, wailing for friends and goods:--
+    "Who was that woman, with mad eyes, that came
+    Into our camp, ill-favored, hardly cast
+    In mortal mould? By her, be sure, was wrought
+    This direful sorcery. Demon or witch,
+    Yaksh� or Rakshas�, or gliding ghost,
+    Or something frightful, was she. Hers this deed
+    Of midnight murders; doubt there can be none.
+    Ah, if we could espy that hateful one,
+    The ruin of our march, the woe-maker,
+    With stones, clods, canes, or clubs, nay, with clenched fists,
+    We'd strike her dead, the murderess of our band!"
+      Trembling the Princess heard those angry words;
+    And--saddened, maddened, shamed--breathless she fled
+    Into the thicket, doubtful if such sin
+    Might not be hers, and with fresh dread distressed.
+    "Aho!" she weeps, "pitiless grows the wrath
+    Of Fate against me. Not one gleam of good
+    Arriveth. Of what fault is this the fruit?
+    I cannot call to mind a wrong I wrought
+    To any--even a little thing--in act
+    Or thought or word; whence then hath come this curse?
+    Belike from ill deeds done in by-gone lives
+    It hath befall'n, and what I suffer now
+    Is payment of old evils undischarged.
+    Grievous the doom--my palace lost, my lord,
+    My children, kindred; I am torn away
+    From home and love and all, to roam accurst
+    In this plague-haunted waste!"
+                                   When broke the day,
+    Those which escaped alive, with grievous cries
+    Departed, mourning for their fellows slain.
+    Each one a kinsman or a friend laments--
+    Father or brother, son, or comrade dear.
+      And Damayanti, hearing, weeps anew,
+    Saying: "What dreadful sin was that I wrought
+    Long, long ago, which, when I chance to meet
+    These wayfarers in the unpeopled wood,
+    Dooms them to perish by the elephants,
+    In my dark destiny enwrapped? No doubt
+    More and more sorrow I shall bear, or bring,
+    For none dies ere his time; this is the lore
+    Of ancient sages; this is why--being glad
+    If I could die--I was not trampled down
+    Under the elephants. There haps to man
+    Nothing unless by destiny. Why else,
+    Seeing that never have I wrought one wrong,
+    From childhood's hours, in thought or word or deed,
+    Hath this woe chanced? May be--meseems it may!--
+    The mighty gods, at my Swayamvara
+    Slighted by me for Nala's dearest sake,
+    Are wroth, and by their dread displeasure thus
+    To loss and loneliness I am consigned!"
+      So--woe-begone and wild--this noble wife,
+    Deserted Damayanti, poured her griefs:
+    And afterwards, with certain Br�hmanas
+    Saved from the rout--good men who knew the Veds--
+    Sadly her road she finished, like the moon
+    That goeth clouded in the month of rain.
+    Thus travelling long, the Princess drew at last
+    Nigh to a city, at the evening hour.
+    The dwelling-place it was of Chedi's Chief,
+    The just Sub�hu. Through its lofty gates
+    Painfully passed she, clad in half a cloth;
+    And as she entered--sorrow-stricken, wan,
+    Foot-weary, stained with mire, with unsmoothed hair,
+    Unbathed, and eyes of madness--those who saw,
+    Wondered and stared, and watched her as she toiled
+    Down the long city street. The children break
+    From play, and--boys with girls--followed her steps,
+    So that she came--a crowd encompassing--
+    Unto the King's door. On the palace roof
+    The mother of the Maharaja paced,
+    And marked the throng, and that sad wayfarer.
+    Then to her nurse spake the queen-mother this:--
+    "Go thou, and bring yon woman unto me!
+    The people trouble her; mournful she walks,
+    Seeming unfriended, yet bears she a mien
+    Made for a king's abode, and, all so wild,
+    Still are her wistful eyes like the great eyes
+    Of Lakshmi's self." So downwards went the nurse,
+    Bidding the rude folk back; and to the roof
+    Of the great palace led that wandering one--
+    Desolate Damayanti--whom the Queen
+    Courteous besought: "Though thou art wan of face,
+    Thou wear'st a noble air, which through thy griefs
+    Shineth as lightning doth behind its cloud.
+    Tell me thy name, and whose thou art, and whence.
+    No lowborn form is thine, albeit thou com'st
+    Wearing no ornaments; and all alone
+    Wanderest--not fearing men--by some spell safe."
+      Hearing which words, the child of Bhima spake
+    Gratefully this: "A woful woman I,
+    And woful wife, but faithful to my vows;
+    High-born, but like a servant, like a slave,
+    Lodging where it may hap, and finding food
+    From the wild roots and fruits wherever night
+    Brings me my resting-place. Yet is my lord
+    A prince noble and great, with countless gifts
+    Endued; and him I followed faithfully
+    As 't were his shadow, till hard fate decreed
+    That he should fall into the rage of dice:--
+    And, worsted in that play, into the wood
+    He fled, clad in one cloth, frenzied and lone.
+    And I his steps attended in the wood,
+    Comforting him, my husband. But it chanced,
+    Hungry and desperate, he lost his cloth;
+    And I--one garment bearing--followed still
+    My unclad lord, despairing, reasonless,
+    Through many a weary night not slumbering.
+    But when, at length, a little while I slept,
+    My Prince abandoned me, rending away
+    Half of my garment, leaving there his wife,
+    Who never wrought him wrong. That lord I seek
+    By day and night, with heart and soul on fire--
+    Seek, but still find not; though he is to me
+    Brighter than light which gleams from lotus-cups,
+    Divine as are the immortals, dear as breath,
+    The master of my life, my pride, my joy!"
+      Whom, grieving so, her sweet eyes blind with tears,
+    Gently addressed Sub�hu's mother--sad
+    To hear as she to tell. "Stay with us here,
+    Thou ill-starred lady. Great the friendliness
+    I have for thee. The people of our court
+    Shall thy lost husband seek; or, it may be,
+    He too will wander hither of himself
+    By devious paths: yea, mournful one, thy lord
+    Thou wilt regain, abiding with us here."
+      And Damayanti, bowing, answered thus
+    Unto the Queen: "I will abide with thee,
+    O mother of illustrious sons, if so
+    They feed me not on orts, nor seek from me
+    To wash the feet of comers, nor that I
+    Be set to speak with any stranger-men
+    Before the curtain; and, if any man
+    Sue me, that he be punished; and if twice,
+    Then that he die, guilty of infamy.
+    This is my earnest prayer; but Br�hmanas
+    Who seek my husband, or bear news of him,
+    Such will I speak with. If it may be thus,
+    Gladly would I abide, great lady, here;
+    If otherwise, it is not on my mind
+    To sojourn longer."
+                            Very tenderly
+    Quoth the queen-mother: "All that thou dost ask
+    We will ordain. The gods reward thy love,
+    Which hath such honor!" Comforting her so,
+    To the king's daughter, young Sunand�, spake
+    The Maharajni: "See, Sunand�, here
+    Clad as a handmaid, but in form divine,
+    One of thy years, gentle and true. Be friends;
+    Take and give pleasure in glad company
+    Each with the other, keeping happy hearts."
+      So went Sunand� joyous to her house,
+    Leading with loving hand the Princess in,
+    The maidens of the court accompanying.
+
+
+Part II.
+
+    Not long (O Maharaja!) was Nala fled
+    From Damayanti, when, in midmost gloom
+    Of the thick wood a flaming fire he spied,
+    And from the fire's heart heard proceed a voice
+    Of one imperilled, crying many times:--
+    "Haste hither, Punyashloka, Nala, haste!"
+    "Fear not," the Prince replied; "I come!" and sprang
+    Across the burning bushes, where he saw
+    A snake--a king of serpents--lying curled
+    In a great ring, which reared its dancing crest
+    Saluting, and in human accents spoke:--
+    "Maharaja, kindly lord, I am the snake
+    Kark�taka; by me was once betrayed
+    The famous Rishi Narada; his wrath
+    Doomed me, thou Chief of men! to bear this spell--
+    'Coil thy false folds,' said he, 'forever here,
+    A serpent, motionless upon this spot,
+    Till it shall chance that Nala passeth by
+    And bears thee hence; then only from my curse
+    Canst thou be freed,' And prisoned by that curse
+    I have no power to stir, though the wood burns;
+    Nay, not a coil! good fellowship I'll show
+    If thou wilt succor me. I'll be to thee
+    A faithful friend, as no snake ever yet.
+    Lift me, and quickly from the flames bear forth:
+    For thee I shall grow light." Thereat shrank up
+    That monstrous reptile to a finger's length;
+    And grasping this, unto a place secure
+    From burning, Nala bore it, where the air
+    Breathed freshly, and the fire's black path was stayed.
+      Then made the Prince to lay the serpent down,
+    But yet again it speaks: "Nishadha's Lord,
+    Grasp me and slowly go, counting thy steps;
+    For, Raja, thou shalt have good fortune hence."
+    So Nala slowly went, counting his steps;
+    And when the tenth pace came, the serpent turned
+    And bit the Prince. No sooner pierced that tooth
+    Than all the likeness of Nishadha changed;
+    And, wonder-struck, he gazed upon himself;
+    While from the dust he saw the snake arise
+    A man, and, speaking as Kark�taka,
+    Comfort him thus:--
+                        "Thou art by me transformed
+    That no man know thee: and that evil one
+    (Possessing, and undoing thee, with grief)
+    Shall so within thee by my venom smart,
+    Shall through thy blood so ache, that--till he quit--
+    He shall endure the woe he did impart.
+    Thus by my potent spell, most noble Prince!
+    (Who sufferest too long) thou wilt be freed
+    From him that haunts thee. Fear no more the wood,
+    Thou tiger of all princes! fear thou not
+    Horned nor fanged beasts, nor any enemies,
+    Though they be Br�hmans! safe thou goest now,
+    Guarded from grief and hurt--Chieftain of men!
+    By this kind poison. In the fields of war
+    Henceforth the victory always falls to thee;
+    Go joyous, therefore, Prince; give thyself forth
+    For 'Vah�ka, the charioteer:' repair
+    To Rituparna's city, who is skilled
+    In play, and dwells in fair Ayodhy�.
+    Wend thou, Nishadha! thither; he will teach
+    Great subtlety in numbers unto thee,
+    Exchanging this for thine own matchless gift
+    Of taming horses. From the lordly line
+    Descended of Ikshvaku, glad and kind
+    The King will be; and thou, learning of him
+    His deepest act of dice, wilt win back all,
+    And clasp again thy Princess. Therefore waste
+    No thought on woes. I tell thee truth! thy realm
+    Thou shalt regain; and when the time is come
+    That thou hast need to put thine own form on,
+    Call me to mind, O Prince, and tie this cloth
+    Around thy body. Wearing it, thy shape
+    Thou shalt resume."
+                       Therewith the serpent gave
+    A magic twofold robe, not wove on earth,
+    Which (O thou son of Kuru!) Nala took;
+    And so the snake, transformed, vanished away.
+      The great snake being gone, Nishadha's Chief
+    Set forth, and on the tenth day entered in
+    At Rituparna's town; there he besought
+    The presence of the Raja, and spake thus:--
+    "I am the chariot-driver, Vah�ka.
+    There is not on this earth another man
+    Hath gifts like mine to tame and guide the steed;
+    Moreover, thou mayest use me in nice needs
+    And dangerous, where kings lack faithful hearts.
+    Specially skilful I am in dressing meats;
+    And whatso other duties may befall,
+    Though they be weighty, I shall execute,
+    If, Rituparna, thou wilt take me in."
+      "I take thee," quoth the King. "Dwell here with me.
+    Such service as thou knowest, render us.
+    'Tis, Vah�ka, forever in my heart
+    To have my steeds the swiftest; be thy task
+    To train me horses like the wind for speed;
+    My charioteer I make thee, and thy wage
+    Ten thousand gold suvernas. Thou wilt have
+    For fellows, Varshneya and Jivala;
+    With those abiding, lodge thou happy here."
+      So entertained and honored of the King,
+    In Rituparna's city Nala dwelled,
+    Lodging with Varshneya and Jivala.
+      There sojourned he (my Raja!), thinking still
+    Of sweet Vidarbha's Princess day by day;
+    And sunset after sunset one sad strain
+    He sang: "Where resteth she that roamed the wood
+    Hungry and parched and worn, but always true?
+    Doth she remember yet her faultful lord?
+    Ah, who is near her now?" So it befell
+    Jivala heard him ever sighing thus,
+    And questioned: "Who is she thou dost lament?
+    Say, Vah�ka! fain would I know her name.
+    Long life be thine; but tell me who he is,
+    The faultful man that was the lady's lord."
+      And Nala answered him: "There lives a man,
+    Evil and rash, that had a noble wife.
+    False to his word he was; and thus it fell
+    That somewhere, for some reason (ask not me!),
+    He quitted her, this rash one. And--so wrenched
+    Apart from hers--his spirit, bad and sad,
+    Muses and moans, with grief's slow fire consumed
+    Night-time and day-time. Thence it is he sings
+    At every sunset this unchanging verse,
+    An outcast on the earth, by hazard led
+    Hither and thither. Such a man thou seest
+    Woful, unworthy, holding in his heart
+    Always that sin. I was that lady's lord,
+    Whom she did follow through the dreadful wood,
+    Living by me abandoned, at this hour;
+    If yet, in truth, she lives--youthful, alone,
+    Unpractised in the ways, not meriting
+    Fortunes so hard. Ah, if indeed she lives,
+    Who roamed the thick and boundless forest, full
+    Of prowling beasts--roamed it, my Jivala,
+    Unguarded by her guilty lord--forsook,
+    Betrayed, good friend!"
+                           Thus did Nishadha grieve,
+    Calling sweet Damayanti to his mind.
+    So tarried he within the Raja's house,
+    And no man knew his place of sojourning.
+      While, stripped of state, the Prince and Princess thus
+    Were sunk to servitude, Bhima made quest,
+    Sending his Br�hmans forth to search for them
+    With straight commands, and for their road-money
+    Liberal store. "Seek everywhere," said he
+    Unto the twice-born, "Nala--everywhere
+    My daughter Damayanti. Whoso comes
+    Successful in this quest, discovering her--
+    With lost Nishadha's Lord--and bringing them,
+    A thousand cows to that man will I give,
+    And village-lands whence shall be revenue
+    As great as from a city. If so be
+    Ye cannot bring me Nala and my child,
+    To him that learns their refuge I will give
+    The thousand cows."
+                       Thereby rejoiced, they went,
+    Those Br�hmans, hither and thither, up and down,
+    Into all regions, rajaships, and towns,
+    Seeking Nishadha's Chieftain, and his wife.
+    But Nala nowhere found they; nowhere found
+    Sweet Damayanti, Bhima's beauteous child--
+      Until, straying to pleasant Chedipur,
+    One day a twice-born came, Sud�va named,
+    And entered it; and, spying round about
+    (Upon a feast-day by the King proclaimed),
+    He saw forth-passing through the palace gate
+    A woman--Bhima's daughter--side by side
+    With young Sunand�. Little praise had now
+    That beauty which in old days shone so bright;
+    Marred with much grief it was, like sunlight dimmed
+    By fold on fold of wreathed and creeping mists.
+    But when Sud�va marked the great dark eyes--
+    Lustreless though they were, and she so worn,
+    So listless--"Lo, the Princess!" whispered he;--
+    "'Tis the King's daughter," quoth he to himself;
+    And thus mused on:--
+                        "Yea! as I used to see,
+    'Tis she! no other woman hath such grace!
+    My task is done; I gaze on that one form,
+    Which is like Lakshmi's, whom all worlds adore.
+    I see the bosoms, rounded, dark, and smooth,
+    As they were sister-moons; the soft moon-face
+    Which with its queenly light makes all things bright
+    Where it doth gleam; the large deep lotus-eyes,
+    That, like to Rati's own, the Queen of Love,
+    Beam, each a lovelit star, filling the worlds
+    With longing. Ah, fair lotus-flower, plucked up
+    By Fate's hard grasp from far Vidarbha's pool,
+    How is thy cup muddied and slimed to-day!
+    Ah, moon, how is thy night like to the eclipse
+    When Rahu swallows up the silver round!
+    Ah, tearless eyes, reddened with weeping him,
+    How are ye like to gentle streams run dry!
+    Ah, lake of lilies, where grief's elephant
+    Hath swung his trunk, and turned the crystal black,
+    And scattered all the blue and crimson cups,
+    And frightened off the birds! Ah, lily-cup,
+    Tender, and delicately leaved, and reared
+    To blossom in a palace built of gems,
+    How dost thou wither here, wrenched by the root,
+    Sun-scorched and faded! Noblest, loveliest, best!--
+    Who bear'st no gems, yet so becomest them--
+    How like the new moon's silver horn thou art,
+    When envious black clouds blot it! Lost for thee
+    Are love, home, children, friends, and kinsmen; lost
+    All joy of that fair body thou dost wear
+    Only that it may last to find thy lord.
+    Truly a woman's ornament is this:--
+    The husband is her jewel; lacking him
+    She hath none, though she shines with priceless pearls;
+    Piteous must be her state! And, torn from her,
+    Doth Nala cling to life; or, day by day,
+    Waste with long yearning? Oh, as I behold
+    Those black locks, and those eyes--dark and long-shaped
+    As are the hundred-petalled lotus-leaves--
+    And watch her joyless who deserves all joy,
+    My heart is sore! When will she overpass
+    The river of this sorrow, and come safe
+    Unto its farther shore? When will she meet
+    Her lord, as moon and moon-star in the sky
+    Mingle? For, as I think, in winning her,
+    Nala would win his happy days again,
+    And--albeit banished now--have back his lands.
+    Alike in years and graces, and alike
+    In lordly race these were: no bride could seem
+    Worthy Nishadha, if it were not she;
+    Nor husband worthy of Vidarbha's Pride,
+    Save it were Nala. It is meet I bring
+    Comfort forthwith to yon despairing one,
+    The consort of the just and noble Prince,
+    For whom I see her heart-sick. I will go
+    And speak good tidings to this moon-faced Queen,
+    Who once knew nought of sorrows, but to-day
+    Stands yonder, plunged heart-deep in woful thought."
+      So, all those signs and marks considering
+    Which stamped her Bhima's child, Sud�va drew
+    Nearer, and said: "Vidarbhi, Nala's wife,
+    I am the Br�hmana Sud�va, friend
+    Unto my lord, thy brother, and I come
+    By royal Bhima's mandate, seeking thee.
+    That Maharaja, thy father, dwells in health;
+    Thy mother and thy house are well; and well--
+    With promise of long years--thy little ones,
+    Sister and brother. Yet, for thy sake, Queen,
+    Thy kindred sit as men with spirit gone;
+    In search of thee a hundred twice-born rove
+    Over all lands."
+                     But (O King Yudhisthir!)
+    Hardly one word she heard before she broke
+    With question after question on the man,
+    Asking of this dear friend and that and this;
+    All mingled with quick tears, and tender sighs,
+    And hungry gazing on her brother's friend,
+    Sud�va--best of Br�hmanas--come there.
+    Which soon Sunand� marked, watching them speak
+    Apart, and Damayanti all in tears.
+    Then came she to her mother, saying: "See,
+    The handmaid thou didst give me talks below
+    With one who is a Br�hman, all her words
+    Watered with weeping; if thou wilt, demand
+    What this man knows."
+                         Therewith swept forth amazed
+    The mother of the Raja, and beheld
+    How Nala's wife spake with the Br�hmana.
+    Whom straight she bade them summon; and, being brought,
+    In this wise questioned: "Knowest thou whose wife,
+    Whose daughter, this one is; and how she left
+    Her kin; and wherefore, being heavenly-eyed
+    And noble-mannered, she hath wandered here?
+    I am full fain to hear this; tell me all,
+    No whit withholding; answer faithfully--
+    Who is our slave-girl with the goddess gait?"
+      The Br�hmana Sud�va, so addressed,
+    Seating himself at ease, unto the Queen
+    Told Damayanti's story, how all fell.
+      Sud�va said: "There reigns in majesty
+    King Bhima at Vidarbha; and of him
+    The Princess Damayanti here is child;
+    And Virasena's son, Nala, is Lord
+    Over Nishadha, praised-in-song and wise;
+    And of that Prince this lady is the wife.
+    In play his brother worsted Nala--stripped
+    Of lands and wealth the Prince; who fled his realm,
+    Wandering with Damayanti--where, none knew.
+    In quest of Damayanti we have roamed
+    The earth's face o'er, until I found her here
+    In thy son's house, the King's--the very same,
+    Since like to her for grace no woman lives
+    Of all fair women. Where her eyebrows meet
+    A pretty mole, born with her, should be seen
+    A little lotus-bud--not visible
+    By reason of the dust of toil which clouds
+    Her face and veils its moon-like beauty--that
+    The wondrous Maker on the rare work stamped
+    To be His Mark. But as the waxing moon
+    Goes thin and darkling for awhile, then rounds
+    The crescent's rims with splendors, so this Queen
+    Hath lost not queenliness. Being now obscured,
+    Soiled with the grime of chores, unbeautified,
+    She shows true gold. The fire which trieth gold
+    Denoteth less itself by instant heat
+    Than Damayanti by her goodlihood.
+    As first sight knew I her. She bears that mole."
+      Whilst yet Sud�va spake (O King of men!),
+    Sunand� from the slave's front washed away
+    The gathered dust, and forth that mark appeared
+    'Twixt Damayanti's brows, as when clouds break,
+    And in the sky the moon, the night-maker,
+    Glitters to view. Seeing the spot awhile,
+    Sunand� and the mother of the King
+    Gazed voiceless; then they clasped her neck and wept
+    Rejoicing, till the Queen, staying her tears,
+    Exclaimed: "My sister's daughter, dear! thou art,
+    By this same mark. Thy mother and myself
+    Were sisters by one father--he that rules
+    Dasarna, King Sud�man. She was given
+    To Bhima, and to Virabahu I.
+    Once at Dasarna, in my father's house,
+    I saw thee, newly born. Thy race and mine,
+    Princess, are one: henceforward, therefore, here
+    As I am, Damayanti, shalt thou be."
+      With gladdened heart did Damayanti bend
+    Before her mother's sister, answering thus:--
+    "Peaceful and thankful dwelled I here with thee,
+    Being unknown, my every need supplied,
+    My life and honor by thy succor safe,
+    Yet, Maharajni, even than this dear home
+    One would be dearer: 'tis so many days
+    Since we were parted. Suffer me to go
+    Where those my tender little ones were led;
+    So long--poor babes!--of me and of their sire
+    Bereft. If, lady, thou dost think to show
+    Kindness to me, this is my wish: to wend
+    Unto Vidarbha swiftly; wilt thou bid
+    They bear me thither?"
+                           Was no sooner heard
+    That fond desire, than the queen-mother gave
+    Willing command; and soon an ample troop,
+    The King consenting, gathered for her guard.
+    So was she sent upon a palanquin,
+    With soldiers, pole-bearers, and meat and drink,
+    And garments as befitted--happier--home.
+      Thus to Vidarbha came its Pride again,
+    By no long road; and joyously her kin
+    Brought the sweet Princess in, and welcomed her.
+    In peace and safety all her house she found;
+    Her children well;--father and mother, friends.
+    The gods she worshipped, and to Br�hmanas
+    Due reverence made, and whatso else was meet
+    That Damayanti did, regal in all.
+    To wise Sud�va fell the thousand cows
+    By Bhima granted, with the village-lands,
+    And goodly gifts beside.
+                             But when there passed
+    One night of rest within the palace-walls,
+    The wistful Princess to her mother said:--
+    "If thou wouldst have me live, I tell thee true,
+    Dear mother, it must be by bringing back
+    My Nala, my own lord; and only so."
+      When this she spake, right sorrowful became
+    The Rani, weeping silently, nor gave
+    One word of answer; and the palace-girls,
+    Seeing this grief, sat round them, weeping too,
+    And crying: "Haha! where is gone her lord?"
+    And loud the lamentation was of all.
+      Afterwards to the Maharaja his Queen
+    Told what was said: "Lord! all uncomforted
+    Thy daughter Damayanti weeps and grieves,
+    Lacking her husband. Even to me she spake
+    Before our damsels, laying shame aside:--
+    'Find Nala; let the people of the court
+    Strive day and night to learn where Nala is.'"
+
+    Then Bhima, hearing, called his Br�hmanas
+    Patient and wise, and issued hest to go
+    Into all regions, seeking for the Prince.
+    But first, by mandate of the Maharaja,
+    To Damayanti all those twice-born came,
+    Saying: "Now we depart!" Then Bhima's child
+    Gave ordinance: "To whatsoever lands
+    Ye wend, say this--wherever gather men,
+    Say this--in every place these verses speak:--
+
+      Whither art thou departed, cruel lover,
+        Who stole the half of thy belov�d's cloth,
+      And left her to awaken, and discover
+        The wrong thou wroughtest to the love of both?
+      She, as thou didst command, a sad watch keepeth,
+        With woful heart wearing the rended dress.
+      Prince, hear her cry who thus forever weepeth;
+        Be mindful, hero; comfort her distress!
+
+    And, furthermore," the Princess said, "since fire
+    Leaps into flame when the wind fans the spark,
+    Be this too spoken, that his heart may burn:--
+
+      By every husband nourished and protected
+        Should every wife be. Think upon the wood!
+      Why these thy duties hast thou so neglected,
+        Prince, that was called noble and true and good?
+      Art then become compassionate no longer,
+        Shunning, perchance, my fortune's broken way?
+      Ah, husband, love is most! let love be stronger;
+        _Ahimsa paro dharma_,[25] thou didst say.
+
+    These verses while ye speak," quoth the Princess,
+    "Should any man make answer, note him well
+    In any place; and who he is, and where
+    He dwells. And if one listens to these words
+    Intently, and shall so reply to them,
+    Good Br�hmans, hold ye fast his speech, and bring,
+    Breath by breath, all of it unto me here;
+    But so that he shall know not whence ye speak,
+    If ye go back. Do this unweariedly;
+    And if one answer--be he high or low,
+    Wealthy or poor--learn all he was and is,
+    And what he would."
+                        Hereby enjoined, they went,
+    Those twice-born, into all the lands to seek
+    Prince Nala in his loneliness. Through towns,
+    Cities and villages, hamlets and camps,
+    By shepherds' huts and hermits' caves, they passed,
+    Searching for Nala; yet they found him not;
+    Albeit in every region (O my king!)
+    The words of Damayanti, as she taught,
+    Spake they again in hearing of all men.
+      Suddenly--after many days--there came
+    A Br�hman back, Parn�da he was called,
+    Who unto Bhima's child in this wise spake:--
+    "O Damayanti, seeking Nala still,
+    Ayodhy�'s streets I entered, where I saw
+    The Maharaja; he--noble-minded one!--
+    Heard me thy verses say, as thou hadst said;
+    Great Rituparna heard those very words,
+    Excellent Princess; but he answered nought;
+    And no man answered, out of all the throng
+    Ofttimes addressed. But when I had my leave
+    And was withdrawn, a man accosted me
+    Privately--one of Rituparna's train,
+    Vah�ka named, the Raja's charioteer
+    (Something misshapen, with a shrunken arm,
+    But skilled in driving, very dexterous
+    In cookery and sweetmeats). He--with groans,
+    And tears which rolled and rolled--asked of my health,
+    And then these verses spake full wistfully:--
+
+      'Even when their loss is largest, noble ladies
+        Keep the true treasure of their hearts unspent,
+      Attaining heaven through faith, which undismayed is
+        By wrong, unaltered by abandonment;
+      Such an one guards with virtue's golden shield
+        Her name from harm; pious and pure and tender;
+      And, though her lord forsook her, will not yield
+        To wrath, even against that vile offender--
+      Even against the ruined, rash, ungrateful,
+        Faithless, fond Prince from whom the birds did steal
+      His only cloth, whom now a penance fateful
+        Dooms to sad days, that dark-eyed will not feel
+      Anger; for if she saw him she should see
+        A man consumed with grief and loss and shame;
+      Ill or well lodged, ever in misery,
+        Her unthroned lord, a slave without a name.'
+
+    Such words I heard him speak," Parn�da said,
+    "And, hastening thence, I tell them to thee, here;
+    Thou knowest; thou wilt judge; make the King know."
+    But Damayanti listened, with great eyes
+    Welling quick tears, while thus Parn�da spake,
+    And afterwards crept secretly and said
+    Unto her mother: "Breathe no word hereof,
+    Dear mother, to the King, but let me speak
+    With wise Sud�va in thy presence here;
+    Nothing should Bhima know of what I plan,
+    But, if thou lovest me, by thee and me
+    This shall be wrought. As I was safely led
+    By good Sud�va home, so let him go--
+    With not less happy fortune--to bring back,
+    Ere many days, my Nala; let him seek
+    Ayodhy�, mother dear, and fetch my Prince!"
+      But first Parn�da, resting from his road--
+    That best of twice-borns--did the Princess thank
+    With honorable words and gifts: "If home
+    My Nala cometh, Br�hman!" so she spake,
+    "Great guerdon will I give. Thou hast well done
+    For me herein--- better than any man;
+    Helping me find again my wandered lord."
+    To which fair words made soft reply, and prayers
+    For "peace and fortune," that high-minded one,
+    And so passed home, his service being wrought.
+      Next to Sud�va spake the sad Princess
+    This (O my King!), her mother standing by:--
+    "Good Br�hman, to Ayodhy�'s city go.
+    Say in the ears of Raja Rituparna,
+    As though thou cam'st a simple traveller,
+    'The daughter of King Bhima once again
+    Maketh to hold her high Swayamvara.
+    The kings and princes from all lands repair
+    Thither; the time draws nigh; to-morrow's dawn
+    Shall bring the day. If thou wouldst be of it,
+    Speed quickly, conquering King! at sunsetting
+    Another lord she chooseth for herself;
+    Since whether Nala liveth or is dead,
+    None knoweth.'"
+                    These the words which he should say;
+    And, learning them, he sped, and thither came--
+    That Br�hmana Sud�va--and he spake
+    To Maharaja Rituparna so.
+      Now when the Raja Rituparna heard
+    Sud�va's words, quoth he to Vah�ka
+    Full pleasantly: "Much mind I have to go
+    Where Damayanti holds Swayamvara,
+    If to Vidarbha, in a single day,
+    Thou deemest we might drive, my charioteer!"
+      Of Nala, by his Raja thus addressed,
+    Torn was the heart with anguish; for he thought:--
+    "Can Damayanti purpose this? Could grief
+    So change her? Is it not some fine device
+    For my sake schemed? Or doth my Princess seek,
+    All holy as she was, this guilty joy,
+    Being so wronged of me, her rash weak lord?
+    Frail is a woman's heart, and my fault great!
+    Thus might she do it, being far from home,
+    Bereft of friends, desolate with long woes
+    Of love for me--my slender-waisted one!
+    Yet no, no, no! she would not--she that is
+    My children's mother! Be it false or true,
+    Best shall I know in going; therefore now
+    The will of Rituparna must I serve."
+      Thus pondering in his mind, the troubled Prince
+    With joined palms meekly to his master said:--
+    "I shall thy hest accomplish! I can drive
+    In one day, Raja, to Vidarbha's gates."
+      Then in the royal stables--steed by steed,
+    Stallions and mares, Vah�ka scanned them all,
+    By Rituparna prayed quickly to choose.
+    Slowly he picked four coursers, under-fleshed,
+    But big of bone and sinew; fetlocked well
+    For journeying; high-bred, heavy-framed; of blood
+    To match the best, yet gentle; blemish-free;
+    Broad in the jaw, with scarlet nostrils spread;
+    Bearing the _Avarthas_, the ten true marks--
+    Reared on the banks of Indus, swift as wind.
+    Which, when the Raja looked upon, he cried,
+    Half-wrathful: "What thing thinkest thou to do?
+    Wilt thou betray me? How should sorry beasts,
+    Lean-ribbed and ragged, take us all that way,
+    The long road we must swiftly travel hence?"
+      Vah�ka answered: "See on all these four
+    The ten sure marks: one curl upon each crest,
+    Two on the cheeks, two upon either flank,
+    Two on the breast, and on each crupper one.[26]
+    These to Vidarbha--doubt it not--will go;
+    Yet, Raja, if thou wilt have others, speak;
+    And I shall yoke them."
+                            Rituparna said:--
+    "I know thou hast deep skill in stable-craft;
+    Yoke therefore such four coursers as thou wilt,
+    But quickly!"
+                  Thus those horses, two by two,
+    High-mettled, spare, and strong, Prince Nala put
+    Under the bars; and when the car was hitched,
+    And eagerly the Raja made to mount,
+    At sign the coursers bent their knees, and lay
+    Along the earth. Then Nala (O my King!),
+    With kindly voice cheering the gaunt bright steeds,
+    Loosed them, and grasped the reins, and bade ascend
+    Varshneya: so he started, headlong, forth.
+      At cry of Vah�ka the four steeds sprung
+    Into the air, as they would fly with him;
+    And when the Raja felt them, fleet as wind,
+    Whirling along, mute sat he and amazed;
+    And much Varshneya mused to hear and see
+    The thundering of those wheels; the fiery four
+    So lightly held; Vah�ka's matchless art.
+    "Is M�tali, who driveth Indra's car,
+    Our charioteer? for all the marks of him
+    Are here! or S�lihotra can this be,
+    The god of horses, knowing all their ways,
+    Who here in mortal form his greatness hides?
+    Or is it--can it be--Nala the Prince,
+    Nala the steed-tamer?" Thus pondered he:--
+    "Whatever Nala knew this one doth know.
+    Alike the mastery seems of both; alike
+    I judge their years. If this man be not he,
+    Two Nalas are there in the world for skill.
+    They say there wander mighty powers on earth
+    In strange disguises, who, divinely sprung,
+    Veil themselves from us under human mould;
+    Bewilderment it brings me, this his shape
+    Misshappen--from conclusion that alone
+    Withholds me; yet I wist not what to think,
+    In age and manner like--and so unlike
+    In form! Else Vah�ka I must have deemed
+    Nala, with Nala's gifts."
+                              So in his heart,
+    Varshneya, watching, wondered--being himself
+    The second charioteer. But Rituparna
+    Sat joyous with the speed, delightedly
+    Marking the driving of the Prince: the eyes
+    Attent; the hand so firm upon the reins;
+    The skill so quiet, wise, and masterful;
+    Great joy the Maharaja had to see.
+      By stream and mountain, woodland-path and pool,
+    Swiftly, like birds that skim in air, they sped;
+    Till, as the chariot plunged, the Raja saw
+    His shoulder-mantle falling to the ground;
+    And--loath to lose the robe--albeit so pressed,
+    To Nala cried he, "Let me take it up;
+    Check the swift horses, wondrous charioteer;
+    And bid Varshneya light, and fetch my cloth,"
+    But Nala answered: "Far it lies behind;
+    A yojana already we have passed;
+    We cannot turn again to pick it up."
+      A little onward Riturparna saw
+    Within the wood a tall Myrobolan
+    Heavy with fruit; hereat, eager he cried:--
+    "Now, Vah�ka, my skill thou mayest behold
+    In the Arithmic. All arts no man knows;
+    Each hath his wisdom, but in one man's wit
+    Is perfect gift of one thing, and not more.
+    From yonder tree how many leaves and fruits,
+    Think'st thou, lie fall'n there upon the earth?
+    Just one above a thousand of the leaves,
+    And one above a hundred of the fruits;
+    And on those two limbs hang, of dancing leaves,
+    Five crores exact; and shouldst thou pluck yon boughs
+    Together with their shoots, on those twain boughs
+    Swing twice a thousand nuts and ninety-five!"
+      Vah�ka checked the chariot wonderingly,
+    And answered: "Imperceptible to me
+    Is what thou boastest, slayer of thy foes!
+    But I to proof will put it, hewing down
+    The tree, and, having counted, I shall know.
+    Before thine eyes the branches twain I'll lop:
+    How prove thee, Maharaja, otherwise,
+    Whether this be or be not? I will count
+    One by one--fruits and leaves--before thee, King;
+    Varshneya, for a space, can rein the steeds."
+      To him replied the Raja: "Time is none
+    Now to delay."
+                    Vah�ka answered quick
+    (His own set purpose serving): "Stay this space,
+    Or by thyself drive on! The road is good,
+    The son of Vrishni will be charioteer!"
+      On that the Raja answered soothingly:--
+    "There is not in the earth another man
+    That hath thy skill; and by thy skill I look
+    To reach Vidarbha, O thou steed-tamer!
+    Thou art my trust; make thou not hindrance now!
+    Yet would I suffer, too, what thou dost ask,
+    If thou couldst surely reach Vidarbha's gate
+    Before yon sun hath sunk."
+                               Nala replied:--
+    "When I have counted those vibh�tak boughs,
+    Vidarbha I will reach; now keep thy word."
+      Ill pleased, the Raja said: "Halt then, and count!
+    Take one bough from the branch which I shall show,
+    And tell its fruits, and satisfy thy soul."
+      So leaping from the car--eager he shore
+    The boughs, and counted; and all wonder-struck
+    To Rituparna spake: "Lo, as thou saidst
+    So many fruits there be upon this bough!
+    Exceeding marvellous is this thy gift,
+    I burn to know such learning, how it comes."
+      Answered the Raja, for his journey fain:--
+    "My mind is quick with numbers, skilled to count;
+    I have the science."
+                         "Give it me, dear Lord!"
+    Vah�ka cried: "teach me, I pray, this lore,
+    And take from me my skill in horse-taming."
+      Quoth Rituparna--impatient to proceed--
+    Yet of such skill desirous: "Be it so!
+    As thou hast prayed, receive my secret art,
+    Exchanging with me here thy mastery
+    Of horses."
+                Thereupon did he impart
+    His rules of numbers, taking Nala's too.
+      But wonderful! So soon as Nala knew
+    That hidden gift, the accursed Kali leapt
+    Forth from his breast, the evil spirit's mouth
+    Spewing the poison of Kark�taka
+    Even as he issued. From the afflicted Prince
+    That bitter plague of Kali passed away;
+    And for a space Prince Nala lost himself,
+    Rent by the agony. But when he saw
+    The evil one take visible shape again--
+    Free from the serpent's poison--Nishadha's Lord
+    Had thought to curse him then; but Kali stood
+    With clasped palms trembling, and besought the Prince,
+    Saying: "Thy wrath restrain, Sovereign of men!
+    I will repay thee well. Thy virtuous wife,
+    Indrasen's angered mother, laid her ban
+    Upon me when thou didst forsake her; since
+    Within thee have I dwelled in anguish sore,
+    Tortured and tossed and burning, night and day,
+    With venom from the great snake's fang, which passed
+    Into me by thy blood. Be pitiful!
+    I take my refuge in thy mercy! Hear
+    My promise, Prince! Wherever men henceforth
+    Shall name thee before people, praising thee,
+    This shall protect them from the dread of me;
+    Nala shall guard from Kali, if so now
+    Thou spare to curse me, seeking grace of thee."
+      Thus supplicated, Nala stayed his wrath,
+    Acceding; and the direful Kali fled
+    Into the wounded tree, possessing it.
+    But of no eyes, save Nala's, was he seen,
+    Nor heard of any other; and the Prince,
+    His sorrows shaking off, when Kali passed,
+    After that numbering of the leaves, in joy
+    Unspeakable, and glowing with new hope,
+    Mounted the car again, and urged his steeds.
+    But from that hour the tall Myrobolan,
+    Possessed by Kali, stood there, sear and dead.
+      Then onward, onward, speeding like the birds,
+    Those coursers flew; and fast and faster still
+    The glad Prince cheered them forward, all elate:
+    And proudly rode the Raja towards the walls
+    Of high Vidarbha. Thus did journey down
+    Exultant Nala, free of trouble now,
+    Quit of the evil spell, but bearing still
+    His form misshapen, and the shrunken limb.
+      At sunset in Vidarbha (O great King!)
+    The watchers on the walls proclaimed, "There comes
+    The Raja Rituparna!" Bhima bade
+    Open the gates; and thus they entered in,
+    Making all quarters of the city shake
+    With rattling of the chariot-wheels. But when
+    The horses of Prince Nala heard that sound,
+    For joy they neighed, as when of old their lord
+    Drew nigh. And Damayanti, in her bower,
+    Far off that rattling of the chariot heard,
+    As when at time of rains is heard the voice
+    Of clouds low thundering; and her bosom thrilled
+    At echo of that ringing sound. It came
+    Loud and more loud, like Nala's, when of old,
+    Gripping the reins, he cheered his mares along.
+    It seemed like Nala to the Princess then--
+    That clatter of the trampling of the hoofs;
+    It seemed like Nala to the stabled steeds:
+    Upon the palace-roof the peacocks heard
+    And screamed; the elephants within their stalls
+    Heard it and trumpeted; the coursers, tied,
+    Snorted for joy to hear that leaping car;
+      Peacocks and elephants and cattle stalled
+    All called and clamored with uplifted heads,
+    As wild things do at noise of coming rain.
+      Then to herself the Princess spake: "This car,
+    The rolling of it, echoing all around,
+    Gladdens my heart. It must be Nala comes,
+    My King of men! If I see not, this day,
+    My Prince that hath the bright and moon-like face,
+    My hero of unnumbered gifts, my lord,
+    Ah, I shall die! If this day fall I not
+    Into his opening arms--at last, at last--
+    And feel his close embrace, oh, beyond doubt,
+    I cannot live! If--ending all--to-day
+    Nishadha cometh not, with this deep sound
+    Like far-off thunder, then to-night I'll leap
+    Into the golden, flickering, fiery flames!
+    If now, now, now, my lion draws not nigh,
+    My warrior-love, like the wild elephant,
+    My Prince of princes--I shall surely die!
+    Nought call I now to mind he said or did
+    That was not rightly said and justly done.
+    No idle word he spake, even in free speech;
+    Patient and lordly; generous to bestow
+    Beyond all givers; scorning to be base,
+    Yea, even in secret--such Nishadha was.
+    Alas! when, day and night, I think of him,
+    How is my heart consumed, reft of its joy!"
+      So meditating, like one torn by thoughts,
+    She mounted to the palace-roof to see;
+    And thence, in the mid-court, the car beheld
+    Arriving. Rituparna and Vah�ka
+    She saw, with Vrishni's son, descend and loose
+    The panting horses, wheeling back the car.
+      Then Rituparna, alighting, sought the King,
+    Bhima the Maharaja, far-renowned--
+    Whom Bhima with fair courtesies received;
+    Since well he deemed such breathless visit made
+    With deep cause, knowing not the women's plots.
+    "_Sw�gatam!"_ cried he; "what hath brought thee, Prince?"
+    For nothing wist he that the Raja came
+    Suitor of Damayanti. Questioned so,
+    This Raja Rituparna, wise and brave,
+    Seeing no kings nor princes in the court,
+    Nor noise of the Swayamvara, nor crowd
+    Of Br�hmans gathering--weighing all those things,
+    Answered in this wise: "I am come, great Lord,
+    To make thee salutations!" But the King
+    Laughed in his beard at Rituparna's word--
+    That this of many weary yojanas
+    Should be the mark. "_Ahoswid_! Hath he passed
+    Through twenty towns," thought he, "and hither flown
+    To bid good-morrow? Nay, it is not that.
+    Good! I shall know it when he bids me know."
+      Thereat, with friendly speech his noble guest
+    The King to rest dismissed. "Repose thyself,"
+    He said; "the road was long; weary thou art."
+    And Rituparna, with sentences of grace
+    Replying to this graciousness, was led
+    By slaves to the allotted sleeping-room;
+    And after Rituparna, Varshneya went.
+    Vah�ka, left alone, the chariot ran
+    Into its shed, and from the foamy steeds
+    Unbuckled all the harness, thong by thong,
+    Speaking soft words to them; then sat him down,
+    Alone, forgotten, on the driving-seat.
+      But Damayanti, seeing Rituparna,
+    And Vrishni's son, and him called Vah�ka,
+    Spake sorrowful: "Whose was the thunder, then,
+    Of that fleet car? It seemed like Nala's own;
+    Yet here I see no Nala! Hath yon man
+    My lord's art learned, or th'other one, that thus
+    Their car should thunder as when Nala comes?
+    Could Rituparna drive as Nala doth,
+    So that those chariot-wheels should sound like his?"
+    And, after having pondered (O my King!),
+    The beauteous Princess sent her handmaiden
+    To Vah�ka, that she might question him.
+      "Go, Keshin�," the Princess said; "inquire
+    Who is that man upon the driving-seat,
+    Misshapen, with the shrunken arm. Approach
+    Composedly, question him winningly
+    With greetings kind, and bid him answer thee
+    According to the truth. I feel at heart
+    A doubt--a hope--that this, perchance, may be
+    My Lord and Prince; there is some new-born joy
+    Fluttering within my breast. Accost him, girl;
+    And, ere thou partest, what Parn�da said,
+    Say thou, and hear him answer, blameless one,
+    And bring it on thy lips!"
+                                Then went the maid
+    Demurely, and accosted Vah�ka,
+    While Damayanti watched them from the roof.
+      "_Kushalam t� brav�mi_--health and peace
+    I wish thee!" said she. "Wilt thou answer true
+    What Damayanti asks? She sends to ask
+    Whence set ye forth, and wherefore are ye come
+    Hither? Vidarbha's Princess fain would know."
+      "'Twas told my Raja," Vah�ka replied,
+    "That Damayanti for the second turn
+    Holds her Swayamvara: the Br�hman's word
+    Was, "This shall be to-morrow." So he sped,
+    Hearing that news, with steeds which in one day
+    Fly fifty yojanas, swift as the winds,
+    Exceeding fleet. His charioteer am I."
+      "Who, then," Keshin� asked, "is he that rode
+    The third? whence cometh he, and what his race?
+    And thou thyself whence sprung? and tell me why
+    Thou servest thus?"
+                          Then Vah�ka replied:--
+    "Varshneya is the third who rode with us,
+    The famous charioteer of Nala he:
+    When thy Prince fled, he went to Koshala
+    And took our service. I in horse-taming
+    And dressing meat have skill; so am I made
+    King Rituparna's driver and his cook."
+      "Knoweth Varshneya, then, where Nala fled?"
+    Inquired the maid; "and did he tell thee this,
+    Or what spake he?"
+                      "Of that unhappy Prince
+    He brought the children hither, and then went
+    Even where he would, of Nala wotting nought;
+    Nor wotteth any man, fair damsel! more.
+    Hidden from mortal eyes Nishadha lives,
+    Wandering the world, his very body changed.
+    Of Nala only Nala's own heart knows,
+    And by no sign doth he bewray himself."
+      Keshin� said: "That Br�hman who did wend
+    First to Ayodhy� bore a verse to say
+    Over and over, everywhere--strange words,
+    Wove by a woman's wit. Listen to these:--
+
+      'Whither art thou departed, cruel lover,
+        Who stole the half of thy belov�d's cloth,
+      And left her to awaken and discover
+        The wrong thou wroughtest to the love of both?
+      She, as thou didst command, a sad watch keepeth,
+        With woful heart wearing the rended dress.
+      Prince, hear her cry who thus forever weepeth;
+        Be mindful, hero; comfort her distress!'
+
+    What was it thou didst utter, hearing this?
+    Some gentle speech! Say it again--the Queen,
+    My peerless mistress, fain would know from me.
+    Nay, on thy faith, when thou didst hear that man,
+    What was it thou replied? She would know."
+      (Descendant of the Kurus!) Nala's heart,
+    While so the maid spoke, well-nigh burst with grief,
+    And from his eyes fast flowed the rolling tears;
+    But, mastering his anguish, holding down
+    The passion of his pain, with voice which strove
+    To speak through sobs, the Prince repeated this:--
+
+      "Even against the ruined, rash, ungrateful,
+        Faithless, fond Prince, from whom the birds did steal
+      His only cloth, whom now a penance fateful
+        Dooms to sad days, that dark-eyed will not feel
+      Anger; for if she saw him she should see
+        A man consumed with grief and loss and shame;
+      Ill or well lodged, ever in misery,
+        Her unthroned lord, a slave without a name."
+
+      Speaking these verses, woful Nala moaned,
+    And, overcome by thought, restrained no more
+    His trickling tears; fast broke they forth (O King!).
+    But Keshin�, returning, told his words
+    To Damayanti, and the grief of him.
+      When Damayanti heard, sore-troubled still,
+    Yet in her heart supposing him her Prince,
+    Again she spake: "Go, Kashin�, and watch
+    Whatever this man doeth; near him stand,
+    Holding thy peace, and mark the ways of him
+    And all his acts, going and coming; note
+    If aught there be of strange in any deed.
+    Let them not give him fire, my girl--not though
+    This hindereth sore; nor water, though he ask
+    Even with beseeching. Afterwards observe,
+    And bring me what befalls, and every sign
+    Of earthly or unearthly power he shows;
+    And whatsoever else Vah�ka doth,
+    See it, and say."
+                    Thereon Keshin� sped,
+    Obeying Damayanti and--at hand--
+    Whatever by that horse-tamer was wrought,
+    The damsel watched, and all his ways; and came
+    Back to the Princess, unto whom she told
+    Each thing Vah�ka did, as it befell,
+    And what the signs were, and the wondrous works
+    Of earthly and unearthly gifts in him.
+      "_Subh�_!"[27] quoth she, "the man is magical,
+    But high and holy mannered; never yet
+    Saw I another such, nor heard of him.
+    Passing the low door of the inner court,
+    Where one must stoop, he did not bow his head,
+    But as he came the lintel lifted up
+    And gave him space. Bhima the King had sent
+    Many and diverse meats for Rituparna,
+    Of beast and bird and fish--great store of food--
+    The which to cleanse some chatties stood hard by,
+    All empty; yet he did but look on them,
+    Wishful, and lo! the water brimmed the pots.
+    Then, having washed the meats, he hastened forth
+    In quest of fire, and, holding towards the sun
+    A knot of withered grass, the bright flame blazed
+    Instant amidst it. Wonderstruck was I
+    This miracle to see, and hither ran
+    With other strangest marvels to impart:--
+    For, Princess, when he touched the blazing grass
+    He was not burned, and water flows for him
+    At will, or ceases flowing; and this, too,
+    The strangest thing of all, did I behold--
+    He took some faded leaves and flowers up,
+    And idly handled them; but while his hands
+    Toyed with them, lo! they blossomed forth again
+    With lovelier life than ever, and fresh scent,
+    Straight on their stalks. These marvels have I seen,
+    And fly back now to tell thee, mistress dear!"
+      But when she knew such wonders of the man,
+    More certainly she deemed those acts and gifts
+    Betokened Nala; and so-minded, full
+    Of trust to find her lord in Vah�ka,
+    With happier tears and softening voice she said
+    To Keshin�: "Speed yet again, my girl;
+    And, while he wots not, from the kitchen take
+    Meat he hath dressed, and bring it here to me."
+    So went the maid, and, waiting secretly,
+    Broke from the mess a morsel, hot and spiced,
+    And, bearing it with faithful swiftness, gave
+    To Damayanti. She (O Kuru King!)--
+    That knew so well the dishes dressed by him--
+    Touched, tasted it, and, laughing--weeping--cried,
+    Beside herself with joy: "Yes, yes; 'tis he!
+    That charioteer is Nala!" then, a-pant,
+    Even while she washed her mouth, she bade the maid
+    Go with the children twain to Vah�ka;
+    Who, when he saw his little Indrasen
+    And Indrasena, started up, and ran,
+    And caught, and folded them upon his breast;
+    Holding them there, his darlings, each as fair
+    As children of the gods. Then, quite undone
+    With love and yearning, loudly sobbed the Prince.
+      Until, perceiving Keshin�, who watched,
+    Shamed to be known, he set his children down,
+    And said: "In sooth, good friend, this lovely pair
+    So like mine own are, that at seeing them
+    I am surprised into these foolish tears.
+    Thou comest here too often; men will think
+    Thee light, or me; remember, we are here,
+    Strangers and guests, girl! Go thy ways in peace!"
+      But seeing that great trouble of his soul,
+    Lightly came Keshin�, and pictured all
+    To Damayanti. She, burning to know
+    If truly this were Nala, bade the girl
+    Seek the Queen's presence, saying thus for her:--
+    "Mother! long watching Vah�ka, I deem
+    The charioteer is Nala. One doubt lives--
+    His altered form. I must myself have speech
+    With Vah�ka; thou, therefore, bid him come,
+    Or suffer me to seek him. Be this done
+    Forthwith, good mother!--whether known or not
+    Unto the Maharaja."
+                        When she heard,
+    The Queen told Bhima what the Princess prayed,
+    Who gave consent; and having this good leave
+    From father and from mother (O my King!),
+    Command was sent that Vah�ka be brought
+    Where the court ladies lodged.
+                                  So met those twain;
+    And when Prince Nala's gaze fell on his wife,
+    He stood with beating heart and tearful eyes.
+    And when sweet Damayanti looked on him,
+    She could not speak for anguish of keen joy
+    To have him close; but sat there, mute and wan,
+    Wearing a sad-hued cloth, her lustrous hair
+    Falling unbanded, and the mourning-mark
+    Stamped in gray ashes on her lovely brow.
+    And, when she found a voice, these were the words
+    That came from her: "Didst ever, Vah�ka--
+    If Vah�ka thy name be, as thou say'st--
+    Know one of noble nature, honorable,
+    Who in the wild woods left his wife asleep--
+    His innocent, fond wife--weary and worn?
+    Know'st thou the man. I'll say his name to thee;
+    'Twas Nala, Raja Nala! Ah, and when
+    In any thoughtless hour had I once wrought
+    The smallest wrong, that he should leave me so,
+    There in the wood, by slumber overcome?
+    Before the gods I chose him for my lord,
+    The gods themselves rejecting; tell me how
+    This Prince could so abandon, in her need,
+    His true, his loving wife, she who did bear
+    His babes--abandon her to whom he swore--
+    My hand clasped, in the sight of all the gods,
+    And Agni's self--'Thy true lord I will be!'
+    Thou saidst it!--where is now that promise, fled?"
+      While thus she spake (O Victor of thy foes!),
+    Fast from her eyes the woe-sprung waters ran.
+    And Nala, seeing those night-black, loving eyes
+    Reddened with weeping, seeing her falling tears;
+    Broke forth: "Ah! that I lost my throne and realm
+    In dicing, was not done by fault of mine;
+    'T was Kali wrought it; Kali, O my wife,
+    Drove me to leave thee. Therefore, long ago
+    That evil one was stricken by the curse
+    Which thou didst utter, wandering in the wood,
+    Desolate, night and day, grieving for me.
+    Possessing me he dwelt; but, cursed by thee,
+    Tortured he dwelt, consuming with thy words
+    In fierce and fiercer pain, as when is piled
+    Brand upon burning brand. But he is gone;
+    Patience and penance have o'ermastered him.
+    Princess, the end is reached of our long woes.
+    That evil one being fled, freeing my will,
+    See, I am here; and wherefore would I come,
+    Fairest, except for thee? Yet, answer this:--
+    How should a wife, right-minded to her lord--
+    Her own and lawful lord--compass to choose
+    Another love, as thou, that tremblest, didst?
+    Thy messengers over all regions ran,
+    By the King's name proclaiming: 'Bhima's child
+    A second husband chooseth for herself,
+    Whomso she will--as pleaseth--being free,'
+    Those shameless tidings brought the Raja here
+    At headlong speed--and me!"
+                                 Tenderly smiled
+    Damayanti through her tears, with quivering lips,
+    And joined palms, answering her aggriev�d Prince:--
+    "Judgest thou me guilty of such a sin?
+    When for thy sake I put the gods aside--
+    Thee did I choose, Nishadha, my one lord.
+    In quest of thee did all those Br�hmans range
+    In all ten regions, telling all one tale
+    Taught them by me; and so Parn�da came
+    To Koshala, where Rituparna dwells,
+    And found thee in his house, and spake to thee
+    Those words, and had thy gentle answer back.
+    Mine the device was, Prince, to bring thee quick;
+    For well I wist no man in all this world
+    Could in one day the fleetest coursers urge
+    So many yojanas, save thou, dear Prince!
+    I touch thy feet, and tell thee this in truth;
+    And true it is that never any wrong
+    Against thee, even in fancy, have I dreamed.
+    Witness for me, as I am loyal and pure,
+    The ever-shifting, all-beholding Air,
+    Who wanders o'er the earth; let him withdraw
+    My breath and slay me, if I sinned in aught!
+    Witness for me, yon golden Sun who goes
+    With bright eye over us; let him withhold
+    Warm life and kill me, if I sinned in aught!
+    Witness for me the white Moon, whose pale spell
+    Lies on all flesh and spirit; let that orb
+    Deny me peace and end me, if I sinned!
+    These be the watchers and the testifiers,
+    The three chief gods that rule the three wide worlds;
+    I cry unto them; let them speak for me;
+    And thou shalt hear them answer for my faith,
+    Or once again, this day, abandon me."
+      Then Vayu showed--the all-enfolding Air--
+    And spake: "Not one wrong hath she wrought thee, Prince,
+    I tell thee sooth. The treasure of her truth
+    Faultless and undefiled she hath kept
+    By us regarded, and sustained by us,
+    These many days. Her tender plot it was,
+    Planned for thy sake, which brought thee; since who else
+    Could in one day drive threescore yojanas?
+    Nala, thou hast thy noble wife again;
+    Thou, Damayanti, hast thy Nala back.
+    Away with doubting; take her to thy breast,
+    Thrice happy Prince!"
+                          And while God Vayu spake,
+    Look! there showered flowers down out of the sky[28]
+    Upon them; and the drums of heaven beat
+    Beautiful music, and a gentle wind,
+    Fragrant, propitious, floated, kissing them.
+    But Nala, when he saw these things befall--
+    Wonderful, gracious--when he heard that voice
+    Called the great snake to memory:--whereupon
+    His proper self returned. Bhima's fair child
+    Divinely sounding (Lord of Bh�rat's line!)--
+    Yielded all doubt of his delightful Love.
+    Then cast he round about his neck the cloth--
+    Unstained by earth, enchanted--and (O King!)
+    Saw her dear lord his beauteous form resume.
+    "Ah, Nala! Nala!" cried she, while her arms
+    Clasped him and clung; and Nala to his heart
+    Pressed that bright lady, glowing, as of old,
+    With princely majesty. Their children twain
+    Next he caressed; while she--at happy peace--
+    Her beautiful glad face laid on his breast,
+    Sighing with too much joy. And Nala stood
+    A great space silent, gazing on her face,
+    Sorrow-stamped yet, her long, deep-lidded eyes,
+    Her melting smile--himself 'twixt joy and woe.
+      Afterwards, all that story of the Prince,
+    And all of Damayanti, Bhima's Queen
+    Told to the Maharaja joyously.
+    And Bhima said: "To-morrow will I see--
+    When Nala hath his needful offerings made--
+    Our daughter and this wandering lord well knit."
+      But all that night they sat, hand clasped in hand,
+    Rejoicing, and relating what befell
+    In the wild wood, and of the woful times.
+      That night being spent, Prince Nala in his state
+    Led forth Vidarbha's Pride before the court.
+    And Bhima--in an hour found fortunate--
+    Re-wed those married lovers. Dutifully
+    Nala paid homage to the Maharaja,
+    And reverently did Damayanti bow
+    Before her father. He the Prince received
+    With grace and gladness, as a son restored,
+    Making fair welcome, and with words of praise
+    Exalting Damayanti, tried and true;
+    Which in all dignity Prince Nala took,
+    Returning, as was meet, words honorable.
+    Therewith unto the city spread the noise
+    Of that rejoicing. All the townspeople,
+    Learning of Nala joyously returned,
+    Made all their quarters gay with float of flags,
+    Flutter of cloths, and garlands; sprinkled free
+    The King's-ways with fresh water, and the cups
+    Of fragrant flowers; and hung long wreaths of flowers.
+    From door to door the white street-fronts before;
+    And decked each temple-porch, and went about
+    The altar-gods.
+    And afterwards, in Bhima's royal house
+    Serenely dwelled the Princess and the Prince,
+    Each making for the other peaceful joy.
+    So in the fourth year Nala was rejoined
+    To Damayanti, comforted and free,
+    Restful, attained, tasting delights again.
+    Also the glad Princess, gaining her lord,
+    Laid sorrows by, and blossomed forth anew,
+    As doth the laughing earth when the rain falls,
+    And brings her unseen, waiting wonders forth
+    Of blade and flower and fruit. The ache was gone,
+    The loneliness and load. Heart-full of ease,
+    Lovelier she grew and brighter, like the moon
+    Mounting at midnight in the cloudless blue.
+                    When Rituparna heard
+    How Vah�ka is Nala in disguise,
+    And of the meeting, right rejoiced at heart
+    That Raja grew. And, being softly prayed
+    By Nala favorable thought, the King
+    Made royal and gentle answer, with like grace
+    By Nala met. To whom spake Rituparna:--
+    "Joy go with thee and her, happily joined.
+    But say, Nishadha, wrought I any jot
+    Wrongful to thee, whilst sojourning unknown
+    Within my walls? If any word or deed,
+    Purposed or purposeless, hath vexed thee, friend,
+    For one and all thy pardon grant to me!"
+      And Nala answered: "Never act or word,
+    The smallest, Raja, lingers to excuse!
+    If this were otherwise, thy slave was I,
+    And might not question, but must pardon thee.
+    Yet good to me thou wert, princely and just,
+    And kind thou art; and friendly from this time
+    Deign thou to be. Happily was I lodged,
+    Well-tended, well-befriended in thy house;
+    In mine own palace never better stead.
+    The skill in steeds which pleased thee, that is mine,
+    And, Raja, I will give it all to thee,
+    If thou art minded."
+                         So Nishadha gave
+    All his great gift in horses to the King,
+    Who learned each rule approved, and ordinance;
+    And, having all this knowledge, gave in turn
+    His deepest lore of numbers and the dice
+    To Nala, afterwards departing home
+    To his own place, another charioteer
+    Driving his steeds; and, Rituparna gone,
+    Not long did Nala dwell in Bhima's town.
+      When one moon he had tarried, taking leave,
+    Nishadha to his city started forth
+    With chosen train. A shining car he drove;
+    And elephants sixteen, and fifty horse,
+    And footmen thirty-score came in the rear.
+    Swiftly did Nala journey, making earth
+    Quake 'neath his flying car; and wrathfully
+    With quick steps entered he his palace doors.
+    The son of Virasena, Nala, stood
+    Once more before that gamester Pushkara!
+    Spake he: "Play yet again; much wealth is mine,
+    And that, and all I have--yea, my Princess--
+    Set I for stakes: set thou this realm, and throw!
+    My mind is fixed a second chance to try,
+    Where, Pushkara, we will play for all or none.
+    Who wins his throne and treasures from a prince,
+    Must stand the hazard of the counter-cast--
+    This is the accepted law. If thou dost blench,
+    The next game we will play is 'life or death,'
+    In chariot-fight; when, or of thee or me
+    One shall lie satisfied: 'Descended realms,
+    By whatsoever means, are to be sought,'
+    The sages say, 'by whatsoever won.'
+    Choose, therefore, Pushkara, which way of these
+    Shall please thee; either meet me with the dice,
+    Or with thy bow confront me in the field."
+      When Pushkara this heard, lightly he smiled,
+    Concluding victory sure; and to the Prince
+    Answered, exulting: "_Dishtya_! hast thou gained
+    Stakes for a counter-game, Nishadha, now?
+    _Dishtya_! shall I have my hard-won prize,
+    Sweet Damayanti? _Dishtya_! didst thou come
+    In kissing-reach again of thy fair wife?
+    Soon, in thy new gold splendid, she shall shine
+    Before all men beside me, as in heaven
+    On Sakra waits the loveliest Apsar�.
+    See, now, I thought on thee, I looked for thee,
+    Ever and ever, Prince. There is no joy
+    Like casting in the game with such as thee.
+    And when to-day I win thy blameless one--
+    The smooth-limbed Damayanti--then shall be
+    What was to be: and I can rest content,
+    For always in my heart her beauty burns."
+      Listening the idle talk that babbler poured,
+    Angry Prince Nala fain had lopped away
+    His head with vengeful _khudga;_[29] but, unmoved,
+    Albeit the wrath blazed in his bloodshot eyes,
+    He made reply: "Play! mock me not with jests;
+    Thou wilt not jest when I have cast with thee!"
+      So was the game set, and the Princes threw
+    Nala and Pushkara, and--the numbers named--
+    By Nala was the hazard gained: he swept
+    His brother's stake, gems, treasure, kingdom, off;
+    At one stroke all that mighty venture won.
+      Then quoth the conquering Prince to Pushkara,
+    Scornfully smiling: "Mine is now once more
+    Nishadha's throne; mine is the realm again,
+    Its curse plucked forth; Vidarbha's glory thou,
+    Outcast, shalt ne'er so much as look upon!
+    Fool! who to-day becom'st her bond and slave.
+    Not by thy gifts that evil stroke was wrought
+    Wherefrom I fled before; 'twas Kali's spell--
+    Albeit thou knew'st nought, fool--overmastered me;
+    Yet will I visit not in wrathful wise
+    My wrong on thee; live as thou wilt; I grant
+    Wherewith to live, and set apart henceforth
+    Thy proper goods and substance, and fit food.
+    Nay, doubt not I shall show thee favor, too,
+    And be in friendship with thee, if thou wilt,
+    Who art my brother. Peace abide with thee!"
+      Thus all-victorious Nala comforted
+    His brother, and embraced him, sending him
+    In honor to his town; and Pushkara--
+    Gently entreated--to Nishadha spake,
+    With folded palms and humbled face, these words:--
+    "Unending be thy glory. May thy bliss
+    Last and increase for twice five thousand years,
+    Who grantest me wherewith to live, just Lord!
+    And where to dwell." Thereafter, well bested,
+    Pushkara sojourned with the Prince one moon;
+    So to his town departed--heart-content--
+    With slaves and foot-soldiers and followers,
+    Gay as a rising sun (O Bh�rat's glory!).
+    Thus sent he Pushkara, rich and safe, away.
+    Then, with flags and drums and jewels, robed and royally arrayed,
+    Nala into fair Nishadha entry high and dazzling made;
+    At the gates the Raja, halting, spake his people words of love;
+    Gathered were they from the city, gathered from the field and grove;
+    From the mountain and the maidan, all a-thrill with joy to see
+    Nala come to guard his children. "Happy now our days will be,"
+    Said the townsfolk, said the elders, said the villagers, "O King!"
+    Standing all with palms upfolded: "Peace and fortune thou wilt bring
+    To thy city, to thy country! Boundless welcome do we give,
+    As the gods in heaven to Indra, when with them he comes to live."
+    After, when the show was ended, and the city, calm and glad,
+    Rest from tumult of rejoicing and rich flood of feasting had,
+    Girt with shining squadrons, Nala fetched his pearl of women home.
+    Like a queen did Damayanti back unto her palace come,
+    By the Maharaja Bhima, by that mighty monarch sent
+    Royally, with countless blessings, to her kingdom, in content.
+    There, beside his peerless Princess, and his children, bore he sway,
+    Godlike, even as Indra ruling 'mid the bliss of Nandana.[30]
+    Bore he sway--my noble Nala--princeliest of all lords--who reign
+    In the lands of Jambudwipa;[31] winning power and fame again;
+    Ruling well his realm reconquered, like a just and perfect king,
+    All the appointed gifts bestowing, all the rites remembering.
+
+
+[22] Jhillikas are the large wood-crickets
+
+[23] A caravan.
+
+[24] This is a secretion which flows by a small orifice from the
+elephant's temples at certain seasons. It is sweet-smelling, and
+constantly alluded to in Hindoo poetry.
+
+[25] "Gentleness is chief of virtues."
+
+[26] These "curls" are the "Arvathas," or marks of good blood and
+high-breeding.
+
+[27] "O Beautiful One!"
+
+[28] This raining down of heavenly flowers on auspicious occasions is a
+frequent incident in ancient Indian poetry.
+
+[29] A short; broad-bladed sword.
+
+[30] Nandana is the Paradise of Indra.
+
+[31] Ancient name of India: "The Land of the Rose-apple Tree."
+
+
+
+
+SELECTIONS FROM THE R�M�YANA
+
+BY
+
+V�LM�KI
+
+
+[_Metrical translation by R.T.H. Griffiths_]
+
+
+INTRODUCTION
+
+
+The ideas of the human family are few, as is apparent from the study of
+the literature of widely different nations. Thus the "R�m�yana" ranks in
+Hindoo with the "Iliad" and the "Odyssey" in Greek literature. The
+character of R�ma corresponds with that of Menelaus, for both the
+European and the Asiatic heroes have had their wives carried off from
+them--although S�t�, the bride of R�ma, is chaste as an icicle from
+Diana's temple, while Helen is the infamous type of wanton wives,
+ancient and modern. The Hindoo Lanka is Troy, and Ayodhy� is Sparta. The
+material civilization of the cities in the Hindoo epic is more luxurious
+and gorgeous than that which Homer attributes to Greece in the heroic
+age. Such splendor and refinement as invests social life at Lanka and
+Ayodhy� never appear amid the severe simplicity of Argos or Troy. The
+moral tone seems perhaps higher in India than in Greece during the
+periods described in their several epics--at least as far as mutual love
+and forbearance go--and the ideas of marriage and conjugal fidelity are
+equally exalted.
+
+As to the literary quality of the Hindoo epic in comparison with Homer's
+work, we are at once impressed with the immense superiority of the Greek
+poem in artistic proportion, point, and precision. The Hindoo poet
+flounders along, amid a maze of prolix description and wearisome simile.
+Trifles are amplified and repeated, and the whole poem resembles a wild
+forest abounding in rich tropical vegetation, palms and flowers, but
+without paths, roads, or limits. Or rather, we are reminded of one of
+the highly painted and richly decorated idols of India, with their many
+heads and many hands: but when we turn to the Greek epic we stand before
+a statue of pure outline, flawless proportions, and more than human
+beauty.
+
+It is difficult to fix the date of the "R�m�yana." Scholars generally
+agree that it belongs to the third century before Christ, in its
+original form, but that some recent portions were added even during the
+Christian era. It is reckoned as one of the sacred books, and the study
+of it is supposed to bring forgiveness of sin, and prosperity. Its
+author is thought to have been the famous poet V�lm�ki, but the work has
+evidently been rehandled several times, and there are three versions of
+the poems still extant. The poem consists of twenty-four thousand
+verses, and the story of it--now overlaid as it is with extravagant and
+fabulous accretions--is evidently founded on fact. The scene of the poem
+is laid in the city of Ayodhy�, the modern Oudh, which is described in
+glowing colors as a place of health, beauty, and prosperity--
+
+    "In by-gone ages built and planned
+    By sainted Manu's princely hand."
+
+In the splendid palace of the Rajah, at Oudh, lives Dasaratha, mourning
+in childlessness. He is one of the princes descended from the sun, and
+his line now threatens to become extinct. He determines to appeal to the
+Gods by the Asva-medha, the great sacrifice in which a horse is the
+victim. The rites accordingly are performed with unparalleled
+magnificence, and, at the close of the ceremony, the high priest
+declares to the king--
+
+    "Four sons, O Monarch, shall be thine,
+    Upholders of the royal line."
+
+Among the offspring duly granted to Dasaratha is R�ma, who is a typical
+Hindoo of the heroic type. His fair wife, S�t�, is carried off by the
+demon Ravana, who had assumed the form of a humble priest, or ascetic,
+in order to gain access to her. He carries her in his chariot to Lanka,
+the fair city built on an island of the sea. By the assistance of a
+large army of monkeys, R�ma marches against Lanka, and when they stand
+helpless--for the water separates them from Ceylon--he then invokes the
+goddess of the sea, as Achilles did Thetis, and she comes in radiant
+beauty, telling them how to bridge the waves. The monkeys bring timber
+and stones, the bridge is built, Lanka reached, and the battle begins.
+Indra sends his own chariot down from heaven to R�ma, who mounts it, and
+vanquishes Ravana in single combat, upon which S�t� is restored to her
+husband. E.W.
+
+
+
+
+THE R�M�YANA
+
+INVOCATION
+
+
+    Praise to V�lm�ki, bird of charming song,
+    Who mounts on Poesy's sublimest spray,
+    And sweetly sings with accent clear and strong
+    R�ma, aye R�ma, in his deathless lay.
+
+    Where breathes the man can listen to the strain
+    That flows in music from V�lm�ki's tongue,
+    Nor feel his feet the path of bliss attain
+    When R�ma's glory by the saint is sung?
+
+    The stream R�m�yan leaves its sacred fount
+    The whole wide world from sin and stain to free.
+    The Prince of Hermits is the parent mount,
+    The lordly R�ma is the darling sea.
+
+    Glory to him whose fame is ever bright!
+    Glory to him, Prachet's holy son!
+    Whose pure lips quaff with ever-new delight
+    The nectar-sea of deeds by R�ma done.
+
+    Hail, arch-ascetic, pious, good, and kind!
+    Hail, Saint V�lm�ki, lord of every lore!
+    Hail, holy Hermit, calm and pure of mind!
+    Hail, First of Bards, V�lm�ki, hail once more!
+
+
+
+
+BOOK I
+
+CANTO I
+
+NARAD
+
+_Om_.
+
+    To sainted N�rad, prince of those
+    Whose lore in words of wisdom flows,
+    Whose constant care and chief delight
+    Were Scripture and ascetic rite,
+    The good V�lm�ki, first and best
+    Of hermit saints, these words addressed:--
+    "In all this world, I pray thee, who
+    Is virtuous, heroic, true?
+    Firm in his vows, of grateful mind,
+    To every creature good and kind?
+    Bounteous, and holy, just, and wise,
+    Alone most fair to all men's eyes?
+    Devoid of envy, firm, and sage,
+    Whose tranquil soul ne'er yields to rage?
+    Whom, when his warrior wrath is high,
+    Do Gods embattled fear and fly?
+    Whose noble might and gentle skill
+    The triple world can guard from ill?
+    Who is the best of princes, he
+    Who loves his people's good to see?
+    The store of bliss, the living mine
+    Where brightest joys and virtues shine?
+    Queen Fortune's best and dearest friend,
+    Whose steps her choicest gifts attend?
+    Who may with Sun and Moon compare,
+    With Indra, Vishnu, Fire, and Air?
+    Grant, Saint divine, the boon I ask,
+    For thee, I ween, an easy task,
+    To whom the power is given to know
+    If such a man breathe here below."
+
+    Then N�rad, clear before whose eye
+    The present, past, and future lie,
+    Made ready answer: "Hermit, where
+    Are graces found so high and rare?
+    Yet listen, and my tongue shall tell
+    In whom alone these virtues dwell.
+    From old Ikshv�ku's line he came,
+    Known to the world by R�ma's name:--
+    With soul subdued, a chief of might,
+    In Scripture versed, in glory bright.
+    His steps in virtue's paths are bent,
+    Obedient, pure, and eloquent.
+    In each emprise he wins success,
+    And dying foes his power confess.
+    Tall and broad-shouldered, strong of limb,
+    Fortune has set her mark on him.
+    Graced with a conch-shell's triple line,
+    His throat displays the auspicious sign.
+    High destiny is clear impressed
+    On massive jaw and ample chest.
+    His mighty shafts he truly aims,
+    And foemen in the battle tames.
+    Deep in the muscle, scarcely shown,
+    Embedded lies his collar-bone.
+    His lordly steps are firm and free,
+    His strong arms reach below his knee;
+    All fairest graces join to deck
+    His head, his brow, his stately neck,
+    And limbs in fair proportion set:--
+    The manliest form e'er fashioned yet.
+    Graced with each high imperial mark,
+    His skin is soft and lustrous dark.
+    Large are his eyes that sweetly shine
+    With majesty almost divine.
+    His plighted word he ne'er forgets;
+    On erring sense a watch he sets.
+    By nature wise, his teacher's skill
+    Has trained him to subdue his will.
+    Good, resolute and pure, and strong,
+    He guards mankind from scathe and wrong,
+    And lends his aid, and ne'er in vain,
+    The cause of justice to maintain.
+    Well has he studied o'er and o'er
+    The Vedas and their kindred lore.
+    Well skilled is he the bow to draw,
+    Well trained in arts and versed in law;
+    High-souled and meet for happy fate,
+    Most tender and compassionate;
+    The noblest of all lordly givers,
+    Whom good men follow, as the rivers
+    Follow the King of Floods, the sea:--
+    So liberal, so just is he.
+    The joy of Queen Kausaly�'s heart,
+    In every virtue he has part;
+    Firm as Him�laya's snowy steep,
+    Unfathomed like the mighty deep;
+    The peer of Vishnu's power and might,
+    And lovely as the Lord of Night;
+    Patient as Earth, but, roused to ire,
+    Fierce as the world-destroying fire;
+    In bounty like the Lord of Gold,
+    And Justice' self in human mould.
+    With him, his best and eldest son,
+    By all his princely virtues won
+    King Dasaratha willed to share
+    His kingdom as the Regent Heir.
+    But when Kaikey�, youngest queen,
+    With eyes of envious hate had seen
+    The solemn pomp and regal state
+    Prepared the prince to consecrate,
+    She bade the hapless king bestow
+    Two gifts he promised long ago,
+    That R�ma to the woods should flee,
+    And that her child the heir should be.
+
+    By chains of duty firmly tied,
+    The wretched King perforce complied.
+    R�ma, to please Kaikey� went
+    Obedient forth, to banishment.
+    Then Lakshman's truth was nobly shown,
+    Then were his love and courage known,
+    When for his brother's sake he dared
+    All perils, and his exile shared.
+    And S�t�, R�ma's darling wife,
+    Loved even as he loved his life,
+    Whom happy marks combined to bless,
+    A miracle of loveliness,
+    Of Janak's royal lineage sprung,
+    Most excellent of women, clung
+    To her dear lord, like Rohin�
+    Rejoicing with the Moon to be.
+    The King and people, sad of mood,
+    The hero's car awhile pursued.
+    But when Prince R�ma lighted down
+    At Sringavera's pleasant town,
+    Where Gang�'s holy waters flow,
+    He bade his driver turn and go.
+    Guha, Nish�das' King, he met,
+    And on the farther bank was set.
+    Then on from wood to wood they strayed,
+    O'er many a stream, through constant shade,
+    As Bharadv�ja bade them, till
+    They came to Chitrak�ta's hill.
+    And R�ma there, with Lakshman's aid,
+    A pleasant little cottage made,
+    And spent his days with S�t�, dressed
+    In coat of bark and deerskin vest.
+    And Chitrak�ta grew to be
+    As bright with those illustrious three
+    As Meru's sacred peaks that shine
+    With glory, when the Gods recline
+    Beneath them: Siva's self between
+    The Lord of Gold and Beauty's Queen.
+
+    The aged King for R�ma pined,
+    And for the skies the earth resigned.
+    Bharat, his son, refused to reign,
+    Though urged by all the twice-born train.
+    Forth to the woods he fared to meet
+    His brother, fell before his feet,
+    And cried "Thy claim all men allow:--
+    O come, our lord and King be thou."
+    But R�ma nobly chose to be
+    Observant of his sire's decree.
+    He placed his sandals in his hand,
+    A pledge that he would rule the land:--
+    And bade his brother turn again.
+    Then Bharat, finding prayer was vain,
+    The sandals took and went away;
+    Nor in Ayodhy� would he stay,
+    But turned to Nandigr�ma, where
+    He ruled the realm with watchful care,
+    Still longing eagerly to learn
+    Tidings of R�ma's safe return.
+
+    Then lest the people should repeat
+    Their visit to his calm retreat,
+    Away from Chitrak�ta's hill
+    Fared R�ma, ever onward till
+    Beneath the shady trees he stood
+    Of Dandak�'s primeval wood.
+    Vir�dha, giant fiend, he slew,
+    And then Agastya's friendship knew.
+    Counselled by him he gained the sword
+    And bow of Indra, heavenly lord:--
+    A pair of quivers too, that bore
+    Of arrows an exhaustless store.
+    While there he dwelt in greenwood shade,
+    The trembling hermits sought his aid,
+    And bade him with his sword and bow
+    Destroy the fiends who worked them woe:--
+    To come like Indra strong and brave,
+    A guardian God to help and save.
+    And R�ma's falchion left its trace
+    Deep cut on S�rpanakh�'s face:--
+    A hideous giantess who came
+    Burning for him with lawless flame.
+    Their sister's cries the giants heard,
+    And vengeance in each bosom stirred;
+    The monster of the triple head,
+    And D�shan to the contest sped.
+    But they and myriad fiends beside
+    Beneath the might of R�ma died.
+
+    When R�van, dreaded warrior, knew
+    The slaughter of his giant crew--
+    R�van, the King, whose name of fear
+    Earth, hell, and heaven all shook to hear--
+    He bade the fiend M�r�cha aid
+    The vengeful plot his fury laid.
+    In vain the wise M�r�cha tried
+    To turn him from his course aside:--
+    Not R�van's self, he said, might hope
+    With R�ma and his strength to cope.
+    Impelled by fate and blind with rage
+    He came to R�ma's hermitage.
+    There, by M�r�cha's magic art,
+    He wiled the princely youths apart,
+    The vulture slew, and bore away
+    The wife of R�ma as his prey.
+    The son of Raghu came and found
+    Jat�yu slain upon the ground.
+    He rushed within his leafy cot;
+    He sought his wife, but found her not.
+    Then, then the hero's senses failed;
+    In mad despair he wept and wailed.
+    Upon the pile that bird he laid,
+    And still in quest of S�t� strayed.
+    A hideous giant then he saw,
+    Kabandha named, a shape of awe.
+
+    The monstrous fiend he smote and slew,
+    And in the flame the body threw;
+    When straight from out the funeral flame
+    In lovely form Kabandha came,
+    And bade him seek in his distress
+    A wise and holy hermitess.
+    By counsel of this saintly dame
+    To Pamp�'s pleasant flood he came,
+    And there the steadfast friendship won
+    Of Hanum�n the Wind-God's son.
+    Counselled by him he told his grief
+    To great Sugr�va, V�nar chief,
+    Who, knowing all the tale, before
+    The sacred flame alliance swore.
+    Sugr�va to his new-found friend
+    Told his own story to the end:--
+    His hate of B�li for the wrong
+    And insult he had borne so long.
+    And R�ma lent a willing ear
+    And promised to allay his fear.
+    Sugr�va warned him of the might
+    Of B�li, matchless in the fight,
+    And, credence for his tale to gain,
+    Showed the huge fiend by B�li slain.
+    The prostrate corse of mountain size
+    Seemed nothing in the hero's eyes;
+    He lightly kicked it, as it lay,
+    And cast it twenty leagues away.
+    To prove his might his arrows through
+    Seven palms in line, uninjured, flew.
+    He cleft a mighty hill apart,
+    And down to hell he hurled his dart.
+    Then high Sugr�va's spirit rose,
+    Assured of conquest o'er his foes.
+    With his new champion by his side
+    To vast Kishkindh�'s cave he hied.
+    Then, summoned by his awful shout,
+    King B�li came in fury out,
+    First comforted his trembling wife,
+    Then sought Sugr�va in the strife.
+    One shaft from R�ma's deadly bow
+    The monarch in the dust laid low.
+    Then R�ma bade Sugr�va reign
+    In place of royal B�li slain.
+    Then speedy envoys hurried forth
+    Eastward and westward, south and north,
+    Commanded by the grateful King
+    Tidings of R�ma's spouse to bring.
+    Then by Samp�ti's counsel led,
+    Brave Hanum�n, who mocked at dread,
+    Sprang at one wild tremendous leap
+    Two hundred leagues, across the deep.
+    To Lank�'s[32] town he urged his way,
+    Where R�van held his royal sway.
+    There pensive 'neath Asoka boughs
+    He found poor S�t�, R�ma's spouse.
+    He gave the hapless girl a ring,
+    A token from her lord and King.
+    A pledge from her fair hand he bore;
+    Then battered down the garden door.
+    Five captains of the host he slew,
+    Seven sons of councillors o'erthrew;
+    Crushed youthful Aksha on the field,
+    Then to his captors chose to yield.
+    Soon from their bonds his limbs were free,
+    But honoring the high decree
+    Which Brahm� had pronounced of yore,
+    He calmly all their insults bore.
+    The town he burnt with hostile flame,
+    And spoke again with R�ma's dame,
+    Then swiftly back to R�ma flew
+    With tidings of the interview.
+
+    Then with Sugr�va for his guide,
+    Came R�ma to the ocean side.
+    He smote the sea with shafts as bright
+    As sunbeams in their summer height,
+    And quick appeared the River's King
+    Obedient to the summoning.
+    A bridge was thrown by Nala o'er
+    The narrow sea from shore to shore.
+    They crossed to Lank�'s golden town,
+    Where R�ma's hand smote R�van down.
+    Vibh�shan there was left to reign
+    Over his brother's wide domain.
+    To meet her husband S�t� came;
+    But R�ma, stung with ire and shame,
+    With bitter words his wife addressed
+    Before the crowd that round her pressed.
+    But S�t�, touched with noble ire,
+    Gave her fair body to the fire.
+    Then straight the God of Wind appeared,
+    And words from heaven her honor cleared.
+    And R�ma clasped his wife again,
+    Uninjured, pure from spot and stain,
+    Obedient to the Lord of Fire
+    And the high mandate of his sire.
+    Led by the Lord who rules the sky,
+    The Gods and heavenly saints drew nigh,
+    And honored him with worthy meed,
+    Rejoicing in each glorious deed.
+    His task achieved, his foe removed,
+    He triumphed, by the Gods approved.
+    By grace of Heaven he raised to life
+    The chieftains slain in mortal strife;
+    Then in the magic chariot through
+    The clouds to Nandigr�ma flew.
+    Met by his faithful brothers there,
+    He loosed his votive coil of hair;
+    Thence fair Ayodhy�'s town he gained,
+    And o'er his father's kingdom reigned.
+    Disease or famine ne'er oppressed
+    His happy people, richly blest
+    With all the joys of ample wealth,
+    Of sweet content and perfect health.
+    No widow mourned her well-loved mate,
+    No sire his son's untimely fate.
+    They feared not storm or robber's hand,
+    No fire or flood laid waste the land:
+    The Golden Age seemed come again
+    To bless the days of R�ma's reign.
+    From him the great and glorious King,
+    Shall many a princely scion spring.
+    And he shall rule, beloved by men,
+    Ten thousand years and hundreds ten,
+    And when his life on earth is past
+    To Brahm�'s world shall go at last.
+
+    Whoe'er this noble poem reads
+    That tells the tale of R�ma's deeds,
+    Good as the Scriptures, he shall be
+    From every sin and blemish free.
+    Whoever reads the saving strain,
+    With all his kin the heavens shall gain.
+    Br�hmans who read shall gather hence
+    The highest praise for eloquence.
+    The warrior, o'er the land shall reign,
+    The merchant, luck in trade obtain;
+    And S�dras, listening, ne'er shall fail
+    To reap advantage from the tale.
+
+[_Cantos II., III., IV., and V. are omitted_.]
+
+
+[32] Ceylon.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO VI
+
+THE KING
+
+    There reigned a King of name revered,
+    To country and to town endeared,
+    Great Dasaratha, good and sage,
+    Well read in Scripture's holy page:
+    Upon his kingdom's weal intent,
+    Mighty and brave and provident;
+    The pride of old Ikshv�ku's seed
+    For lofty thought and righteous deed.
+    Peer of the saints, for virtues famed,
+    For foes subdued and passions tamed;
+    A rival in his wealth untold
+    Of Indra and the Lord of Gold.
+    Like Manu first of kings, he reigned,
+    And worthily his state maintained.
+    For firm and just and ever true
+    Love, duty, gain, he kept in view,
+    And ruled his city rich and free,
+    Like Indra's Amar�vat�.
+    And worthy of so fair a place
+    There dwelt a just and happy race
+    With troops of children blest.
+    Each man contented sought no more,
+    Nor longed with envy for the store
+    By richer friends possessed.
+    For poverty was there unknown,
+    And each man counted as his own
+    Kine, steeds, and gold, and grain.
+    All dressed in raiment bright and clean,
+    And every townsman might be seen
+    With ear-rings, wreath or chain.
+    None deigned to feed on broken fare,
+    And none was false or stingy there.
+    A piece of gold, the smallest pay,
+    Was earned by labor for a day.
+    On every arm were bracelets worn,
+    And none was faithless or forsworn,
+    A braggart or unkind.
+    None lived upon another's wealth,
+    None pined with dread or broken health,
+    Or dark disease of mind.
+    High-souled were all. The slanderous word,
+    The boastful lie, were never heard.
+    Each man was constant to his vows,
+    And lived devoted to his spouse.
+    No other love his fancy knew,
+    And she was tender, kind, and true.
+    Her dames were fair of form and face,
+    With charm of wit and gentle grace,
+    With modest raiment simply neat,
+    And winning manners soft and sweet.
+    The twice-born sages, whose delight
+    Was Scripture's page and holy rite,
+    Their calm and settled course pursued,
+    Nor sought the menial multitude.
+    In many a Scripture each was versed,
+    And each the flame of worship nursed,
+    And gave with lavish hand.
+    Each paid to Heaven the offerings due,
+    And none was godless or untrue
+    In all that holy band.
+    To Br�hmans, as the laws ordain,
+    The Warrior caste were ever fain
+    The reverence due to pay;
+    And these the Vaisyas' peaceful crowd,
+    Who trade and toil for gain, were proud
+    To honor and obey;
+    And all were by the S�dras served,
+    Who never from their duty swerved.
+    Their proper worship all addressed
+    To Br�hman, spirits, God, and guest.
+    Pure and unmixt their rites remained,
+    Their race's honor ne'er was stained.
+    Cheered by his grandsons, sons, and wife,
+    Each passed a long and happy life.
+    Thus was that famous city held
+    By one who all his race excelled,
+    Blest in his gentle reign,
+    As the whole land aforetime swayed
+    By Manu, prince of men, obeyed
+    Her king from main to main.
+    And heroes kept her, strong and brave,
+    As lions guard their mountain cave;
+    Fierce as devouring flame they burned,
+    And fought till death, but never turned.
+    Horses had she of noblest breed,
+    Like Indra's for their form and speed,
+    From V�hli's hills and Sindhu's sand,
+    Van�yu and K�mboja's land.
+    Her noble elephants had strayed
+    Through Vindhyan and Him�layan shade,
+    Gigantic in their bulk and height,
+    Yet gentle in their matchless might.
+    They rivalled well the world-spread fame
+    Of the great stock from which they came,
+    Of V�man, vast of size,
+    Of Mah�padma's glorious line,
+    Thine, Anjan, and, Air�vat, thine,
+    Upholders of the skies.
+    With those, enrolled in fourfold class,
+    Who all their mighty kin surpass,
+    Whom men Matangas name,
+    And Mrigas spotted black and white,
+    And Bhadras of unwearied might,
+    And Mandras hard to tame.
+    Thus, worthy of the name she bore,
+    Ayodhy� for a league or more
+    Cast a bright glory round,
+    Where Dasaratha wise and great
+    Governed his fair ancestral state,
+    With every virtue crowned.
+    Like Indra in the skies he reigned
+    In that good town whose wall contained
+    High domes and turrets proud,
+    With gates and arcs of triumph decked,
+    And sturdy barriers to protect
+    Her gay and countless crowd.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO VII
+
+THE MINISTERS
+
+    Two sages, holy saints, had he,
+    His ministers and priests to be:--
+    Vasishtha, faithful to advise,
+    And V�madeva, Scripture-wise.
+    Eight other lords around him stood,
+    All skilled to counsel, wise and good:--
+    Jayanta, Vijay, Dhrishti bold
+    In fight, affairs of war controlled;
+    Siddh�rth and Arthas�dhak true
+    Watched o'er expense and revenue,
+    And Dharmap�l and wise Asok
+    Of right and law and justice spoke.
+    With these the sage Sumantra, skilled
+    To urge the car, high station filled.
+    All these in knowledge duly trained
+    Each passion and each sense restrained:--
+    With modest manners, nobly bred,
+    Each plan and nod and look they read,
+    Upon their neighbors' good intent,
+    Most active and benevolent;
+    As sits the Vasus round their King,
+    They sate around him counselling.
+    They ne'er in virtue's loftier pride
+    Another's lowly gifts decried.
+    In fair and seemly garb arrayed,
+    No weak uncertain plans they made.
+    Well skilled in business, fair and just,
+    They gained the people's love and trust,
+    And thus without oppression stored
+    The swelling treasury of their lord.
+    Bound in sweet friendship each to each,
+    They spoke kind thoughts in gentle speech.
+    They looked alike with equal eye
+    On every caste, on low and high.
+    Devoted to their King, they sought,
+    Ere his tongue spoke, to learn his thought,
+    And knew, as each occasion rose,
+    To hide their counsel or disclose.
+    In foreign lands or in their own
+    Whatever passed, to them was known.
+    By secret spies they timely knew
+    What men were doing or would do.
+    Skilled in the grounds of war and peace
+    They saw the monarch's state increase,
+    Watching his weal with conquering eye
+    That never let occasion by,
+    While nature lent her aid to bless
+    Their labors with unbought success.
+    Never for anger, lust, or gain,
+    Would they their lips with falsehood stain.
+    Inclined to mercy they could scan
+    The weakness and the strength of man.
+    They fairly judged both high and low,
+    And ne'er would wrong a guiltless foe;
+    Yet if a fault were proved, each one
+    Would punish e'en his own dear son.
+    But there and in the kingdom's bound
+    No thief or man impure was found:--
+    None of loose life or evil fame,
+    No tempter of another's dame.
+    Contented with their lot each caste
+    Calm days in blissful quiet passed;
+    And, all in fitting tasks employed,
+    Country and town deep rest enjoyed.
+    With these wise lords around his throne
+    The monarch justly reigned,
+    And making every heart his own
+    The love of all men gained.
+    With trusty agents, as beseems,
+    Each distant realm he scanned,
+    As the sun visits with his beams
+    Each corner of the land.
+    Ne'er would he on a mightier foe
+    With hostile troops advance,
+    Nor at an equal strike a blow
+    In war's delusive chance.
+    These lords in council bore their part
+    With ready brain and faithful heart,
+    With skill and knowledge, sense and tact,
+    Good to advise and bold to act.
+    And high and endless fame he won
+    With these to guide his schemes--
+    As, risen in his might, the sun
+    Wins glory with his beams.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO VIII
+
+SUMANTRA'S SPEECH
+
+    But splendid, just, and great of mind,
+    The childless King for offspring pined.
+    No son had he his name to grace,
+    Transmitter of his royal race.
+    Long had his anxious bosom wrought,
+    And as he pondered rose the thought:--
+    "A votive steed 'twere good to slay,
+    So might a son the gift repay."
+    Before his lords his plans he laid,
+    And bade them with their wisdom aid;
+    Then with these words Sumantra, best
+    Of royal counsellors, addressed:--
+    "Hither, Vasishtha at their head,
+    Let all my priestly guides be led."
+
+    To him Sumantra made reply:--
+    "Hear, sire, a tale of days gone by.
+    To many a sage in time of old,
+    Sanatkum�r, the saint, foretold
+    How from thine ancient line, O King,
+    A son, when years came round, should spring
+    'Here dwells,' 'twas thus the seer began,
+    'Of Kasyap's race, a holy man,
+    Vibh�ndak named: to him shall spring
+    A son, the famous Rishyasring.
+    Bred with the deer that round him roam,
+    The wood shall be that hermit's home.
+    To him no mortal shall be known
+    Except his holy sire alone.
+    Still by those laws shall he abide
+    Which lives of youthful Br�hmans guide,
+    Obedient to the strictest rule
+    That forms the young ascetic's school:
+    And all the wondering world shall hear
+    Of his stern life and penance drear;
+    His care to nurse the holy fire
+    And do the bidding of his sire.
+    Then, seated on the Angas' throne,
+    Shall Lomap�d to fame be known.
+    But folly wrought by that great King
+    A plague upon the land shall bring;
+    No rain for many a year shall fall
+    And grievous drought shall ruin all.
+    The troubled King with many a prayer
+    Shall bid the priests some cure declare:--
+    "The lore of Heaven 'tis yours to know,
+    Nor are ye blind to things below:--
+    Declare, O holy men, the way
+    This plague to expiate and stay."
+    Those best of Br�hmans shall reply:--
+    "By every art, O Monarch, try,
+    Hither to bring Vibh�ndak's child,
+    Persuaded, captured, or beguiled.
+    And when the boy is hither led
+    To him thy daughter duly wed."
+
+    But how to bring that wondrous boy
+    His troubled thoughts will long employ,
+    And hopeless to achieve the task
+    He counsel of his lords will ask,
+    And bid his priests and servants bring
+    With honor saintly Rishyasring.
+    But when they hear the monarch's speech,
+    All these their master will beseech,
+    With trembling hearts and looks of woe,
+    To spare them, for they fear to go.
+    And many a plan will they declare
+    And crafty plots will frame,
+    And promise fair to show him there,
+    Unforced, with none to blame.
+    On every word his lords shall say,
+    The King will meditate,
+    And on the third returning day
+    Recall them to debate.
+    Then this shall be the plan agreed,
+    That damsels shall be sent
+    Attired in holy hermits' weed,
+    And skilled in blandishment,
+    That they the hermit may beguile
+    With every art and amorous wile
+    Whose use they know so well,
+    And by their witcheries seduce
+    The unsuspecting young recluse
+    To leave his father's cell.
+    Then when the boy with willing feet
+    Shall wander from his calm retreat
+    And in that city stand,
+    The troubles of the King shall end,
+    And streams of blessed rain descend
+    Upon the thirsty land.
+    Thus shall the holy Rishyasring
+    To Lomap�d, the mighty King,
+    By wedlock be allied;
+    For S�nt�, fairest of the fair,
+    In mind and grace beyond compare,
+    Shall be his royal bride.
+    He, at the Offering of the Steed,
+    The flames with holy oil shall feed,
+    And for King Dasaratha gain
+    Sons whom his prayers have begged in vain,'
+    I have repeated, sire, thus far,
+    The words of old Sanatkum�r,
+    In order as he spoke them then
+    Amid the crowd of holy men."
+    Then Dasaratha cried with joy,
+    "Say how they brought the hermit boy."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO IX
+
+RISHYASRING
+
+    The wise Sumantra, thus addressed,
+    Unfolded at the King's behest
+    The plan the lords in council laid
+    To draw the hermit from the shade.
+    The priest, amid the lordly crowd,
+    To Lomap�d thus spoke aloud:--
+    "Hear, King, the plot our thoughts have framed,
+    A harmless trick by all unblamed.
+    Far from the world that hermit's child
+    Lives lonely in the distant wild:
+    A stranger to the joys of sense,
+    His bliss is pain and abstinence;
+    And all unknown are women yet
+    To him, a holy anchoret.
+    The gentle passions we will wake
+    That with resistless influence shake
+    The hearts of men; and he
+    Drawn by enchantment strong and sweet
+    Shall follow from his lone retreat,
+    And come and visit thee.
+    Let ships be formed with utmost care
+    That artificial trees may bear,
+    And sweet fruit deftly made;
+    Let goodly raiment, rich and rare,
+    And flowers, and many a bird be there
+    Beneath the leafy shade.
+    Upon the ships thus decked a band
+    Of young and lovely girls shall stand,
+    Rich in each charm that wakes desire,
+    And eyes that burn with amorous fire;
+    Well skilled to sing, and play, and dance,
+    And ply their trade with smile and glance.
+    Let these, attired in hermits' dress,
+    Betake them to the wilderness,
+    And bring the boy of life austere
+    A voluntary captive here,"
+    He ended; and the King agreed,
+    By the priest's counsel won,
+    And all the ministers took heed
+    To see his bidding done.
+    In ships with wondrous art prepared
+    Away the lovely women fared,
+    And soon beneath the shade they stood
+    Of the wild, lonely, dreary wood.
+    And there the leafy cot they found
+    Where dwelt the devotee.
+    And looked with eager eyes around
+    The hermit's son to see.
+    Still, of Vibh�ndak sore afraid,
+    They hid behind the creeper's shade.
+    But when by careful watch they knew
+    The elder saint was far from view,
+    With bolder steps they ventured nigh
+    To catch the youthful hermit's eye.
+    Then all the damsels blithe and gay,
+    At various games began to play.
+    They tossed the flying ball about
+    With dance and song and merry shout,
+    And moved, their scented tresses bound
+    With wreaths, in mazy motions round.
+    Some girls as if by love possessed,
+    Sank to the earth in feigned unrest,
+    Up-starting quickly to pursue
+    Their intermitted game anew.
+    It was a lovely sight to see
+    Those fair ones, as they played,
+    While fragrant robes were floating free,
+    And bracelets clashing in their glee
+    A pleasant tinkling made.
+    The anklet's chime, the Ko�l's cry
+    With music filled the place,
+    As 'twere some city in the sky;
+    Which heavenly minstrels grace.
+    With each voluptuous art they strove
+    To win the tenant of the grove,
+    And with their graceful forms inspire
+    His modest soul with soft desire.
+    With arch of brow, with beck and smile,
+    With every passion-waking wile
+    Of glance and lotus hand,
+    With all enticements that excite
+    The longing for unknown delight
+    Which boys in vain withstand.
+    Forth came the hermit's son to view
+    The wondrous sight to him so new,
+    And gazed in rapt surprise
+    For from his natal hour till then
+    On woman or the sons of men
+    He ne'er had cast his eyes.
+    He saw them with their waists so slim,
+    With fairest shape and faultless limb,
+    In variegated robes arrayed,
+    And sweetly singing as they played.
+    Near and more near the hermit drew,
+    And watched them at their game,
+    And stronger still the impulse grew
+    To question whence they came.
+    They marked the young ascetic gaze
+    With curious eye and wild amaze,
+    And sweet the long-eyed damsels sang,
+    And shrill their merry laughter rang.
+    Then came they nearer to his side,
+    And languishing with passion cried:--
+    "Whose son, O youth, and who art thou,
+    Come suddenly to join us now?
+    And why dost thou all lonely dwell
+    In the wild wood? We pray thee, tell.
+    We wish to know thee, gentle youth;
+    Come, tell us, if thou wilt, the truth,"
+    He gazed upon that sight he ne'er
+    Had seen before, of girls so fair,
+    And out of love a longing rose
+    His sire and lineage to disclose:--
+    "My father," thus he made reply,
+    "Is Kasyap's son, a saint most high,
+    Vibh�ndak styled; from him I came,
+    And Rishyasring he calls my name.
+    Our hermit cot is near this place:--
+    Come thither, O ye fair of face;
+    There be it mine, with honor due,
+    Ye gentle youths, to welcome you."
+
+    They heard his speech, and gave consent,
+    And gladly to his cottage went.
+    Vibh�ndak's son received them well
+    Beneath the shelter of his cell--
+    With guest-gift, water for their feet,
+    And woodland fruit and roots to eat.
+    They smiled and spoke sweet words like these.
+    Delighted with his courtesies:--
+    "We too have goodly fruit in store,
+    Grown on the trees that shade our door;
+    Come, if thou wilt, kind Hermit, haste
+    The produce of our grove to taste;
+    And let, O good Ascetic, first
+    This holy water quench thy thirst."
+    They spoke, and gave him comfits sweet
+    Prepared ripe fruits to counterfeit;
+    And many a dainty cate beside,
+    And luscious mead their stores supplied.
+    The seeming fruits, in taste and look,
+    The unsuspecting hermit took,
+    For, strange to him, their form beguiled
+    The dweller in the lonely wild.
+    Then round his neck fair arms were flung,
+    And there the laughing damsels clung,
+    And pressing nearer and more near
+    With sweet lips whispered at his ear;
+    While rounded limb and swelling breast
+    The youthful hermit softly pressed.
+    The pleasing charm of that strange bowl,
+    The touch of a tender limb,
+    Over his yielding spirit stole
+    And sweetly vanquished him--
+    But vows, they said, must now be paid;
+    They bade the boy farewell,
+    And of the aged saint afraid,
+    Prepared to leave the dell.
+    With ready guile they told him where
+    Their hermit dwelling lay;
+    Then, lest the sire should find them there,
+    Sped by wild paths away.
+    They fled and left him there alone
+    By longing love possessed;
+    And with a heart no more his own
+    He roamed about distressed.
+    The aged saint came home, to find
+    The hermit boy distraught,
+    Revolving in his troubled mind
+    One solitary thought.
+    "Why dost thou not, my son," he cried,
+    "Thy due obeisance pay?
+    Why do I see thee in the tide
+    Of whelming thought to-day?
+    A devotee should never wear
+    A mien so sad and strange.
+    Come, quickly, dearest child, declare
+    The reason of the change."
+    And Rishyasring, when questioned thus,
+    Made answer in this wise:--
+    "O sire, there came to visit us
+    Some men with lovely eyes.
+    About my neck soft arms they wound
+    And kept me tightly held
+    To tender breasts so soft and round,
+    That strangely heaved and swelled.
+    They sing more sweetly as they dance
+    Than e'er I heard till now,
+    And play with many a sidelong glance
+    And arching of the brow."
+    "My son," said he, "thus giants roam
+    Where holy hermits are,
+    And wander round their peaceful home
+    Their rites austere to mar.
+    I charge thee, thou must never lay
+    Thy trust in them, dear boy:--
+    They seek thee only to betray,
+    And woo but to destroy."
+    Thus having warned him of his foes
+    That night at home he spent,
+    And when the morrow's sun arose
+    Forth to the forest went.
+
+    But Rishyasring with eager pace
+    Sped forth and hurried to the place
+    Where he those visitants had seen
+    Of dainty waist and charming mien.
+    When from afar they saw the son
+    Of Saint Vibh�ndak toward them run,
+    To meet the hermit boy they hied,
+    And hailed him with a smile, and cried:--
+    "O come, we pray, dear lord, behold
+    Our lovely home of which we told:--
+    Due honor there to thee we'll pay,
+    And speed thee on thy homeward way."
+    Pleased with the gracious words they said
+    He followed where the damsels led.
+    As with his guides his steps he bent,
+    That Br�hman high of worth,
+    A flood of rain from heaven sent
+    That gladdened all the earth.
+
+    Vibh�ndak took his homeward road,
+    And wearied by the heavy load
+    Of roots and woodland fruit he bore
+    Entered at last his cottage door.
+    Fain for his son he looked around,
+    But desolate the cell he found.
+    He stayed not then to bathe his feet,
+    Though fainting with the toil and heat,
+    But hurried forth and roamed about
+    Calling the boy with cry and shout.
+    He searched the wood, but all in vain;
+    Nor tidings of his son could gain.
+    One day beyond the forest's bound
+    The wandering saint a village found,
+    And asked the swains and neatherds there
+    Who owned the land so rich and fair,
+    With all the hamlets of the plain,
+    And herds of kine and fields of grain.
+    They listened to the hermit's words,
+    And all the guardians of the herds,
+    With suppliant hands together pressed,
+    This answer to the saint addressed:--
+    "The Angas' lord who bears the name
+    Of Lomap�d, renowned by fame,
+    Bestowed these hamlets with their kine
+    And all their riches, as a sign
+    Of grace, on Rishyasring; and he
+    Vibh�ndak's son is said to be."
+    The hermit with exulting breast
+    The mighty will of fate confessed,
+    By meditation's eye discerned;
+    And cheerful to his home returned.
+
+    A stately ship, at early morn,
+    The hermit's son away had borne.
+    Loud roared the clouds, as on he sped,
+    The sky grew blacker overhead;
+    Till, as he reached the royal town,
+    A mighty flood of rain came down.
+    By the great rain the monarch's mind
+    The coming of his guest divined.
+    To meet the honored youth he went,
+    And low to earth his head he bent.
+    With his own priest to lead the train,
+    He gave the gift high guests obtain,
+    And sought, with all who dwelt within
+    The city walls, his grace to win.
+    He fed him with the daintiest fare,
+    He served him with unceasing care,
+    And ministered with anxious eyes
+    Lest anger in his breast should rise;
+    And gave to be the Br�hman's bride
+    His own fair daughter, lotus-eyed.
+
+    Thus loved and honored by the King,
+    The glorious Br�hman Rishyasring
+    Passed in that royal town his life
+    With S�nt� his beloved wife.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO X
+
+RISHYASRING INVITED
+
+    "Again, O best of Kings, give ear:--
+    My saving words attentive hear,
+    And listen to the tale of old
+    By that illustrious Br�hman told.
+    'Of famed Ikshv�ku's line shall spring
+    ('Twas thus he spoke) a pious king,
+    Named Dasaratha, good and great,
+    True to his word and fortunate.
+    He with the Angas' mighty lord
+    Shall ever live in sweet accord,
+    And his a daughter fair shall be,
+    S�nt� of happy destiny.
+    But Lomap�d, the Angas' chief,
+    Still pining in his childless grief,
+    To Dasaratha thus shall say:--
+    "Give me thy daughter, friend, I pray,
+    Thy S�nt� of the tranquil mind,
+    The noblest one of womankind."
+
+    The father, swift to feel for woe,
+    Shall on his friend his child bestow;
+    And he shall take her and depart
+    To his own town with joyous heart.
+    The maiden home in triumph led,
+    To Rishyasring the King shall wed.
+    And he with loving joy and pride
+    Shall take her for his honored bride.
+    And Dasaratha to a rite
+    That best of Br�hmans shall invite
+    With supplicating prayer
+    To celebrate the sacrifice
+    To win him sons and Paradise,
+    That he will fain prepare.
+    From him the lord of men at length
+    The boon he seeks shall gain,
+    And see four sons of boundless strength
+    His royal line maintain,
+    Thus did the godlike saint of old
+    The will of fate declare,
+    And all that should befall unfold
+    Amid the sages there.
+    O Prince, supreme of men, go thou,
+    Consult thy holy guide,
+    And win, to aid thee in thy vow,
+    This Br�hman to thy side."
+
+    Sumantra's counsel, wise and good,
+    King Dasaratha heard,
+    Then by Vasishtha's side he stood
+    And thus with him conferred:--
+    "Sumantra counsels thus:--do thou
+    My priestly guide, the plan allow."
+    Vasishtha gave his glad consent,
+    And forth the happy monarch went
+    With lords and servants on the road
+    That led to Rishyasring's abode.
+    Forests and rivers duly past,
+    He reached the distant town at last--
+    Of Lomap�d the Angas' King,
+    And entered it with welcoming.
+    On through the crowded streets he came,
+    And, radiant as the kindled flame,
+    He saw within the monarch's house
+    The hermit's son, most glorious.
+    There Lomap�d, with joyful breast,
+    To him all honor paid,
+    For friendship for his royal guest
+    His faithful bosom swayed.
+    Thus entertained with utmost care
+    Seven days, or eight, he tarried there,
+    And then that best of men thus broke
+    His purpose to the King, and spoke:--
+
+    "O King of men, mine ancient friend,
+    (Thus Dasaratha prayed),
+    Thy S�nt� with her husband send
+    My sacrifice to aid."
+    Said he who ruled the Angas, "Yea,"
+    And his consent was won:--
+    And then at once he turned away
+    To warn the hermit's son.
+    He told him of their ties beyond
+    Their old affection's faithful bond:--
+    "This King," he said, "from days of old
+    A well beloved friend I hold.
+    To me this pearl of dames he gave
+    From childless woe mine age to save,
+    The daughter whom he loved so much,
+    Moved by compassion's gentle touch.
+    In him thy S�nt�'s father see:--
+    As I am, even so is he.
+    For sons the childless monarch yearns,
+    To thee alone for help he turns.
+    Go thou, the sacred rite ordain
+    To win the sons he prays to gain:--
+    Go, with thy wife thy succor lend,
+    And give his vows a blissful end."
+
+    The hermit's son with quick accord
+    Obeyed the Angas' mighty lord,
+    And with fair S�nt� at his side
+    To Dasaratha's city hied.
+    Each king, with suppliant hands upheld,
+    Gazed on the other's face:--
+    And then by mutual love impelled
+    Met in a close embrace.
+    Then Dasaratha's thoughtful care,
+    Before he parted thence,
+    Bade trusty servants homeward bear
+    The glad intelligence:--
+    "Let all the town be bright and gay,
+    With burning incense sweet;
+    Let banners wave, and water lay
+    The dust in every street."
+    Glad were the citizens to learn
+    The tidings of their lord's return,
+    And through the city every man
+    Obediently his task began.
+    And fair and bright Ayodhy� showed,
+    As following his guest he rode
+    Through the full streets, where shell and drum
+    Proclaimed aloud the King was come.
+    And all the people with delight
+    Kept gazing on their king,
+    Attended by that youth so bright,
+    The glorious Rishyasring.
+    When to his home the King had brought
+    The hermit's saintly son,
+    He deemed that all his task was wrought,
+    And all he prayed for won.
+    And lords who saw the stranger dame
+    So beautiful to view,
+    Rejoiced within their hearts, and came
+    And paid her honor, too.
+    There Rishyasring passed blissful days,
+    Graced like the King with love and praise,
+    And shone in glorious light with her,
+    Sweet S�nt� for his minister,
+    As Brahm�'s son Vasishtha, he
+    Who wedded Saint Arundhat�.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XI
+
+THE SACRIFICE DECREED
+
+    The Dewy Season came and went;
+    The spring returned again--
+    Then would the King, with mind intent,
+    His sacrifice ordain.
+    He came to Rishyasring, and bowed
+    To him of look divine,
+    And bade him aid his offering vowed
+    For heirs, to save his line.
+    Nor would the youth his aid deny,
+    He spake the monarch fair,
+    And prayed him for that rite so high
+    All requisites prepare.
+    The King to wise Sumantra cried
+    Who stood aye ready near;
+    "Go summon quick, each holy guide,
+    To counsel and to hear,"
+    Obedient to his lord's behest
+    Away Sumantra sped,
+    And brought Vasishtha and the rest,
+    In Scripture deeply read.
+    Suyajna, V�madeva came,
+    J�v�li, Kasyap's son,
+    And old Vasishtha, dear to fame,
+    Obedient, every one.
+    King Dasaratha met them there
+    And duly honored each,
+    And spoke in pleasant words his fair
+    And salutary speech:--
+    "In childless longing doomed to pine,
+    No happiness, O lords, is mine.
+    So have I for this cause decreed
+    To slay the sacrificial steed.
+    Fain would I pay that offering high
+    Wherein the horse is doomed to die,
+    With Rishyasring his aid to lend,
+    And with your glory to befriend."
+
+    With loud applause each holy man
+    Received his speech, approved the plan,
+    And, by the wise Vasishtha led,
+    Gave praises to the King, and said:--
+    "The sons thou cravest shalt thou see,
+    Of fairest glory, born to thee,
+    Whose holy feelings bid thee take
+    This righteous course for offspring's sake."
+    Cheered by the ready praise of those
+    Whose aid he sought, his spirits rose--
+    And thus the King his speech renewed
+    With looks of joy and gratitude:--
+    "Let what the coming rites require
+    Be ready, as the priests desire,
+    And let the horse, ordained to bleed,
+    With fitting guard and priest, be freed.
+    Yonder on Sarj�'s northern side
+    The sacrificial ground provide;
+    And let the saving rites, that nought
+    Ill-omened may occur, be wrought.
+    The offering I announce to-day
+    Each lord of earth may claim to pay,
+    Provided that his care can guard
+    The holy rite by flaws unmarred.
+    For wandering fiends, whose watchful spite
+    Waits eagerly to spoil each rite--
+    Hunting with keenest eye detect
+    The slightest slip, the least neglect;
+    And when the sacred work is crossed
+    The workman is that moment lost.
+    Let preparation due be made,
+    Your powers the charge can meet,
+    That so the noble rite be paid
+    In every point complete."
+    And all the Br�hmans answered, "Yea,"
+    His mandate honoring,
+    And gladly promised to obey
+    The order of the King.
+    They cried with voices raised aloud:--
+    "Success attend thine aim!"
+    Then bade farewell, and lowly bowed,
+    And hastened whence they came.
+    King Dasaratha went within,
+    His well-loved wives to see--
+    And said: "Your lustral rites begin,
+    For these shall prosper me.
+    A glorious offering I prepare
+    That precious fruit of sons may bear."
+    Their lily faces brightened fast
+    Those pleasant words to hear,
+    As lilies, when the winter's past,
+    In lovelier hues appear.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XII
+
+THE SACRIFICE BEGUN
+
+    Again the spring with genial heat
+    Returning made the year complete.
+    To win him sons, without delay
+    His vow the King resolved to pay--
+    And to Vasishtha, saintly man,
+    In modest words this speech began:--
+    "Prepare the rite with all things fit
+    As is ordained in Holy Writ,
+    And keep with utmost care afar
+    Whate'er its sacred forms might mar.
+    Thou art, my lord, my trustiest guide,
+    Kind-hearted, and my friend beside;
+    So is it meet thou undertake
+    This heavy task for duty's sake."
+
+    Then he, of twice-born men the best,
+    His glad assent at once expressed:--
+    "Fain will I do whatever may be
+    Desired, O honored King, by thee."
+    To ancient priests he spoke, who, trained
+    In holy rites, deep skill had gained:--
+    "Here guards be stationed, good and sage,
+    Religious men of trusted age.
+    And various workmen send and call,
+    Who frame the door and build the wall--
+    With men of every art and trade,
+    Who read the stars and ply the spade,
+    And mimes and minstrels hither bring,
+    And damsels trained to dance and sing."
+    Then to the learned men he said,
+    In many a page of Scripture read:--
+    "Be yours each rite performed to see
+    According to the King's decree.
+    And stranger Br�hmans quickly call
+    To this great rite that welcomes all.
+    Pavilions for the princes, decked
+    With art and ornament, erect,
+    And handsome booths by thousands made
+    The Br�hman visitors to shade--
+    Arranged in order side by side,
+    With meat and drink and all supplied.
+    And ample stables we shall need
+    For many an elephant and steed--
+    And chambers where the men may lie,
+    And vast apartments, broad and high,
+    Fit to receive the countless bands
+    Of warriors come from distant lands.
+    For our own people too provide
+    Sufficient tents, extended wide,
+    And stores of meat and drink prepare,
+    And all that can be needed there.
+    And food in plenty must be found
+    For guests from all the country round.
+    Of various viands presents make,
+    For honor, not for pity's sake,
+    That fit regard and worship be
+    Paid to each caste in due degree.
+    And let not wish or wrath excite
+    Your hearts the meanest guest to slight;
+    But still observe with special grace
+    Those who obtain the foremost place,
+    Whether for happier skill in art
+    Or bearing in the rite their part
+    Do you, I pray, with friendly mind
+    Perform the task to you assigned,
+    And work the rite, as bids the law,
+    Without omission, slip, or flaw."
+
+    They answered: "As thou seest fit
+    So will we do and nought omit."
+    The sage Vasishtha then addressed
+    Sumantra, called at his behest:--
+    "The princes of the earth invite,
+    And famous lords who guard the rite,
+    Priest, Warrior, Merchant, lowly thrall,
+    In countless thousands summon all.
+    Where'er their home be, far or near,
+    Gather the good with honor here.
+    And Janak, whose imperial sway
+    The men of Mithil� obey,
+    The firm of vow, the dread of foes,
+    Who all the lore of Scripture knows,
+    Invite him here with honor high,
+    King Dasaratha's old ally.
+    And K�si's lord of gentle speech,
+    Who finds a pleasant word for each--
+    In length of days our monarch's peer,
+    Illustrious King, invite him here.
+    The father of our ruler's bride,
+    Known for his virtues far and wide,
+    The King whom Kekaya's realms obey,
+    Him with his son invite, I pray.
+    And Lomap�d, the Angas King,
+    True to his vows and godlike, bring.
+    Far be thine invitations sent
+    To west and south and orient.
+    Call those who rule Sur�shtra's land,
+    Suv�ra's realm and Sindhu's strand,
+    And all the kings of earth beside
+    In friendship's bonds with us allied:--
+    Invite them all to hasten in
+    With retinue and kith and kin."
+    Vasishtha's speech without delay
+    Sumantra bent him to obey,
+    And sent his trusty envoys forth
+    Eastward and westward, south and north.
+    Obedient to the saint's request
+    Himself he hurried forth, and pressed
+    Each nobler chief and lord and king
+    To hasten to the gathering.
+    Before the saint Vasishtha stood
+    All those who wrought with stone and wood,
+    And showed the work which every one
+    In furtherance of the rite had done.
+    Rejoiced their ready zeal to see,
+    Thus to the craftsmen all said he:--
+    "I charge ye, masters, see to this,
+    That there be nothing done amiss.
+    And this, I pray, in mind be borne,
+    That not one gift ye give in scorn;
+    Whenever scorn a gift attends
+    Great sin is his who thus offends."
+
+    And now some days and nights had passed,
+    And Kings began to gather fast,
+    And precious gems in liberal store
+    As gifts to Dasaratha bore.
+    Then joy thrilled through Vasishtha's breast
+    As thus the monarch he addressed:--
+    "Obedient to thy high decree
+    The Kings, my lord, are come to thee.
+    And it has been my care to greet
+    And honor all with reverence meet.
+    Thy servants' task is ended quite,
+    And all is ready for the rite.
+    Come forth then to the sacred ground
+    Where all in order will be found."
+    Then Rishyasring confirmed the tale:--
+    Nor did their words to move him fail.
+    The stars propitious influence lent
+    When forth the world's great ruler went.
+    Then by the sage Vasishtha led,
+    The priest began to speed
+    Those glorious rites wherein is shed
+    The lifeblood of the steed.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XIII
+
+THE SACRIFICE FINISHED
+
+    The circling year had filled its course,
+    And back was brought the wandering horse:--
+    Then upon Sarj�'s northern strand
+    Began the rite the King had planned.
+    With Rishyasring the forms to guide,
+    The Br�hmans to their task applied,
+    At that great offering of the steed
+    Their lofty-minded King decreed.
+    The priests, who all the Scripture knew,
+    Performed their part in order due,
+    And circled round in solemn train
+    As precepts of the law ordain.
+    Pravargya rites were duly sped:--
+    For Upasads the flames were fed.
+    Then from the plant the juice was squeezed,
+    And those high saints, with minds well pleased,
+    Performed the mystic rites begun
+    With bathing ere the rise of sun.
+    They gave the portion, Indra's claim,
+    And hymned the King whom none can blame.
+    The mid-day bathing followed next,
+    Observed as bids the holy text.
+    Then the good priests with utmost care,
+    In form that Scripture's rules declare,
+    For the third time pure water shed
+    On high-souled Dasaratha's head.
+    Then Rishyasring and all the rest
+    To Indra and the Gods addressed
+    Their sweet-toned hymn of praise and prayer,
+    And called them in the rite to share.
+    With sweetest song and hymn intoned
+    They gave the Gods in heaven enthroned,
+    As duty bids, the gifts they claim,
+    The holy oil that feeds the flame.
+    And many an offering there was paid,
+    And not one slip in all was made.
+    For with most careful heed they saw
+    That all was done by Veda law.
+    None, all those days, was seen oppressed
+    By hunger or by toil distressed.
+    Why speak of human kind? No beast
+    Was there that lacked an ample feast.
+    For there was store for all who came,
+    For orphan child and lonely dame;
+    The old and young were well supplied,
+    The poor and hungry satisfied.
+    Throughout the day ascetics fed,
+    And those who roam to beg their bread:--
+    While all around the cry was still,
+    "Give forth, give forth," and "Eat your fill."
+    "Give forth with liberal hand the meal,
+    And various robes in largess deal."
+
+    Urged by these cries on every side
+    Unweariedly their task they plied,
+    And heaps of food like hills in size
+    In boundless plenty met the eyes:--
+    And lakes of sauce, each day renewed,
+    Refreshed the weary multitude.
+    And strangers there from distant lands,
+    And women folk in crowded bands
+    The best of food and drink obtained
+    At the great rite the King ordained.
+    Apart from all, the Br�hmans there,
+    Thousands on thousands, took their share
+    Of various dainties sweet to taste,
+    On plates of gold and silver placed--
+    All ready set, as, when they willed,
+    The twice-born men their places filled.
+    And servants in fair garments dressed
+    Waited upon each Br�hman guest.
+
+    Of cheerful mind and mien were they,
+    With gold and jewelled ear-rings gay.
+    The best of Br�hmans praised the fare
+    Of countless sorts, of flavor rare--
+    And thus to Raghu's son they cried:--
+    "We bless thee, and are satisfied."
+    Between the rites some Br�hmans spent
+    The time in learned argument,
+    With ready flow of speech, sedate,
+    And keen to vanquish in debate.
+    There day by day the holy train
+    Performed all rites as rules ordain.
+    No priest in all that host was found
+    But kept the vows that held him bound;
+    None, but the holy Vedas knew,
+    And all their sixfold science too.
+    No Br�hman there was found unfit
+    To speak with eloquence and wit.
+
+    And now the appointed time came near
+    The sacrificial posts to rear.
+    They brought them, and prepared to fix
+    Of Bel and Kh�dir six and six;
+    Six, made of the Pal�sa-tree,
+    Of Fig-wood one, apart to be--
+    Of Sleshm�t and of Devad�r
+    One column each, the mightiest far:--
+    So thick the two the arms of man
+    Their ample girth would fail to span.
+    All these with utmost care were wrought
+    By hand of priests in Scripture taught,
+    And all with gold were gilded bright
+    To add new splendor to the rite;
+    Twenty-and-one those stakes in all,
+    Each one-and-twenty cubits tall:--
+    And one-and-twenty ribbons there
+    Hung on the pillars bright and fair.
+    Firm in the earth they stood at last,
+    Where cunning craftsmen fixed them fast;
+    And there unshaken each remained,
+    Octagonal and smoothly planed.
+
+    Then ribbons over all were hung,
+    And flowers and scent around them flung.
+    Thus decked they cast a glory forth
+    Like the great saints who star the north.
+    The sacrificial altar then
+    Was raised by skilful twice-born men--
+    In shape and figure to behold
+    An eagle with his wings of gold,
+    With twice nine pits and formed threefold.
+    Each for some special God, beside
+    The pillars were the victims tied;
+    The birds that roam the wood, the air,
+    The water, and the land were there,
+    And snakes and things of reptile birth,
+    And healing herbs that spring from earth:--
+    As texts prescribe, in Scripture found,
+    Three hundred victims there were bound.
+    The steed devoted to the host
+    Of Gods, the gem they honor most,
+    Was duly sprinkled. Then the Queen
+    Kausaly�, with delighted mien,
+    With reverent steps around him paced,
+    And with sweet wreaths the victim graced;
+    Then with three swords in order due
+    She smote the steed with joy, and slew.
+    That night the queen, a son to gain,
+    With calm and steady heart was fain
+    By the dead charger's side to stay
+    From evening till the break of day.
+    Then came three priests, their care to lead
+    The other queens to touch the steed--
+    Upon Kausaly� to attend,
+    Their company and aid to lend.
+    As by the horse she still reclined,
+    With happy mien and cheerful mind,
+    With Rishyasring the twice-born came
+    And praised and blessed the royal dame.
+    The priest who well his duty knew,
+    And every sense could well subdue,
+    From out the bony chambers freed
+    And boiled the marrow of the steed.
+    Above the steam the monarch bent,
+    And, as he smelt the fragrant scent,
+    In time and order drove afar
+    All error, that his hopes could mar.
+    Then sixteen priests together came,
+    And cast into the sacred flame
+    The severed members of the horse,
+    Made ready all in ordered course.
+    On piles of holy Fig-tree raised
+    The meaner victims' bodies blazed:--
+    The steed, of all the creatures slain,
+    Alone required a pile of cane.
+    Three days, as is by law decreed,
+    Lasted that Offering of the Steed.
+    The Chatushtom began the rite,
+    And when the sun renewed his light,
+    The Ukthya followed--after came
+    The Atir�tra's holy flame.
+    These were the rites, and many more,
+    Arranged by light of holy lore,
+    The Aptory�m of mighty power,
+    And, each performed in proper hour,
+    The Abhijit and Visvajit
+    With every form and service fit;
+    And with the sacrifice at night
+    The Jyotishtom and �yus rite.
+
+    The task was done, as laws prescribe:--
+    The monarch, glory of his tribe,
+    Bestowed the land in liberal grants
+    Upon the sacred ministrants.
+    He gave the region of the east,
+    His conquest, to the Hotri priest.
+    The west the celebrant obtained,
+    The south the priest presiding gained--
+    The northern region was the share
+    Of him who chanted forth the prayer.
+    Thus did each priest obtain his meed
+    At the great Slaughter of the Steed,
+    Ordained, the best of all to be,
+    By self-existent deity.
+
+    Ikshv�ku's son, with joyful mind,
+    This noble fee to each assigned--
+    But all the priests with one accord
+    Addressed that unpolluted lord:--
+    "'Tis thine alone to keep the whole
+    Of this broad earth in firm control.
+    No gift of lands from thee we seek,
+    To guard these realms our hands were weak.
+    On sacred lore our days are spent,
+    Let other gifts our wants content."
+
+    The chief of old Ikshv�ku's line
+    Gave them ten hundred thousand kine,
+    A hundred millions of fine gold,
+    The same in silver four times told.
+    But every priest in presence there
+    With one accord resigned his share.
+    To Saint Vasishtha, high of soul,
+    And Rishyasring they gave the whole.
+    That largess pleased those Br�hmans well,
+    Who bade the prince his wishes tell.
+    Then Dasaratha, mighty King,
+    Made answer thus to Rishyasring:--
+    "O holy Hermit, of thy grace,
+    Vouchsafe the increase of my race."
+    He spoke; nor was his prayer denied--
+    The best of Br�hmans thus replied:--
+    "Four sons, O Monarch, shall be thine,
+    Upholders of thy royal line."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XIV
+
+R�VAN DOOMED
+
+
+    The saint, well-read in holy lore,
+    Pondered awhile his answer o'er,
+    And thus again addressed the King,
+    His wandering thoughts regathering:--
+    "Another rite will I begin
+    Which shall the sons thou cravest win,
+    Where all things shall be duly sped
+    And first Atharva texts be read."
+
+    Then by Vibh�ndak's gentle son
+    Was that high sacrifice begun,
+    The King's advantage seeking still
+    And zealous to perform his will.
+    Now all the Gods had gathered there,
+    Each one for his allotted share--
+    Brahm�, the ruler of the sky,
+    Sth�nu, N�r�yan, Lord most high,
+    And holy Indra men might view
+    With Maruts for his retinue;
+    The heavenly chorister, and saint,
+    And spirit pure from earthly taint,
+    With one accord had sought the place
+    The high-souled monarch's rite to grace,
+    Then to the Gods who came to take
+    Their proper share, the hermit spake:--
+    "For you has Dasaratha slain
+    The votive steed, a son to gain;
+    Stern penance-rites the King has tried,
+    And in firm faith on you relied,
+    And now with undiminished care
+    A second rite would fain prepare.
+    But, O ye Gods, consent to grant
+    The longing of your supplicant.
+    For him beseeching hands I lift,
+    And pray you all to grant the gift,
+    That four fair sons of high renown
+    The offerings of the King may crown."
+    They to the hermit's son replied:--
+    "His longing shall be gratified.
+    For, Br�hman, in most high degree
+    We love the King and honor thee."
+
+    These words the Gods in answer said,
+    And vanished thence, by Indra led.
+    Thus to the Lord, the worlds who made,
+    The Immortals all assembled prayed:--
+    "O Brahm�, mighty by thy grace,
+    R�van, who rules the giant race,
+    Torments us in his senseless pride,
+    And penance-loving saints beside.
+    For thou well pleased in days of old
+    Gavest the boon that makes him bold,
+    That God nor demon e'er should kill
+    His charmed life, for so thy will.
+    We, honoring that high behest,
+    Bear all his rage though sore distressed.
+    That lord of giants fierce and fell
+    Scourges the earth and heaven and hell.
+    Mad with thy boon, his impious rage
+    Smites saint and bard and God and sage.
+    The sun himself withholds his glow,
+    The wind in fear forbears to blow;
+    The fire restrains his wonted heat
+    Where stand the dreaded R�van's feet,
+    And, necklaced with the wandering wave,
+    The sea before him fears to rave.
+    Kuvera's self in sad defeat
+    Is driven from his blissful seat.
+    We see, we feel the giant's might,
+    And woe comes o'er us and affright.
+    To thee, O Lord, thy suppliants pray
+    To find some cure this plague to stay."
+
+    Thus by the gathered Gods addressed
+    He pondered in his secret breast,
+    And said: "One only way I find
+    To slay this fiend of evil mind.
+    He prayed me once his life to guard
+    From demon, God, and heavenly bard,
+    And spirits of the earth and air,
+    And I consenting heard his prayer.
+    But the proud giant in his scorn
+    Recked not of man of woman born.
+    None else may take his life away,
+    But only man the fiend may slay."
+
+    The Gods, with Indra at their head,
+    Rejoiced to hear the words he said.
+    Then, crowned with glory like a flame,
+    Lord Vishnu to the council came;
+    His hands shell, mace, and discus bore,
+    And saffron were the robes he wore.
+    Riding his eagle through the crowd,
+    As the sun rides upon a cloud,
+    With bracelets of fine gold, he came,
+    Loud welcomed by the Gods' acclaim.
+    His praise they sang with one consent,
+    And cried, in lowly reverence bent:--
+    "O Lord whose hand fierce Madhu slew,
+    Be thou our refuge, firm and true;
+    Friend of the suffering worlds art thou,
+    We pray thee help thy suppliants now."
+    Then Vishnu spake: "Ye Gods, declare,
+    What may I do to grant your prayer?"
+
+    "King Dasaratha," thus cried they,
+    "Fervent in penance many a day,
+    The sacrificial steed has slain,
+    Longing for sons, but all in vain.
+    Now, at the cry of us forlorn,
+    Incarnate as his seed be born.
+    Three queens has he--each lovely dame
+    Like Beauty, Modesty, or Fame.
+    Divide thyself in four, and be
+    His offspring by these noble three.
+    Man's nature take, and slay in fight
+    R�van who laughs at heavenly might--
+    This common scourge, this rankling thorn
+    Whom the three worlds too long have borne.
+    For R�van, in the senseless pride
+    Of might unequalled, has defied
+    The host of heaven, and plagues with woe
+    Angel and bard and saint below,
+    Crushing each spirit and each maid
+    Who plays in Nandan's heavenly shade.
+    O conquering Lord, to thee we bow;
+    Our surest hope and trust art thou.
+    Regard the world of men below,
+    And slay the God's tremendous foe."
+
+    When thus the suppliant Gods had prayed,
+    His wise reply N�r�yan made:--
+    "What task demands my presence there,
+    And when this dread, ye Gods declare."
+    The Gods replied: "We fear, O Lord,
+    Fierce R�van, ravener abhorred.
+    Be thine the glorious task, we pray,
+    In human form this fiend to slay.
+    By thee of all the Blest alone
+    This sinner may be overthrown.
+    He gained by penance long and dire
+    The favor of the mighty Sire.
+    Then He who every gift bestows
+    Guarded the fiend from heavenly foes,
+    And gave a pledge his life that kept
+    From all things living, man except.
+    On him thus armed no other foe
+    Than man may deal the deadly blow.
+    Assume, O King, a mortal birth,
+    And strike the demon to the earth."
+
+    Then Vishnu, God of Gods, the Lord
+    Supreme by all the worlds adored,
+    To Brahm� and the suppliants spake:--
+    "Dismiss your fear: for your dear sake
+    In battle will I smite him dead,
+    The cruel fiend, the Immortal's dread.
+    And lords and ministers and all
+    His kith and kin with him shall fall.
+    Then, in the world of mortal men,
+    Ten thousand years and hundreds ten
+    I as a human King will reign,
+    And guard the earth as my domain."
+    God, saint, and nymph, and minstrel throng
+    With heavenly voices raised their song
+    In hymns of triumph to the God
+    Whose conquering feet on Madhu trod:---
+
+    "Champion of Gods, as man appear,
+    This cruel R�van slay,
+    The thorn that saints and hermits fear,
+    The plague that none can stay.
+    In savage fury uncontrolled
+    His pride forever grows--
+    He dares the Lord of Gods to hold
+    Among his deadly foes."
+
+
+
+CANTO XV
+
+THE NECTAR
+
+    When wisest Vishnu thus had given
+    His promise to the Gods of heaven,
+    He pondered in his secret mind
+    A suited place of birth to find.
+    Then he decreed, the lotus-eyed,
+    In four his being to divide,
+    And Dasaratha, gracious King,
+    He chose as sire from whom to spring.
+    That childless prince, of high renown,
+    Who smote in war his foemen down,
+    At that same time with utmost care
+    Prepared the rite that wins an heir.
+    Then Vishnu, fain on earth to dwell,
+    Bade the Almighty Sire farewell,
+    And vanished while a reverent crowd
+    Of Gods and saints in worship bowed.
+
+    The monarch watched the sacred rite,
+    When a vast form of awful might,
+    Of matchless splendor, strength and size
+    Was manifest before his eyes.
+    From forth the sacrificial flame,
+    Dark, robed in red, the being came.
+    His voice was drumlike, loud and low,
+    His face suffused with rosy glow.
+    Like a huge lion's mane appeared
+    The long locks of his hair and beard.
+    He shone with many a lucky sign,
+    And many an ornament divine;
+    A towering mountain in his height,
+    A tiger in his gait and might.
+
+    No precious mine more rich could be,
+    No burning flame more bright than he.
+    His arms embraced in loving hold,
+    Like a dear wife, a vase of gold
+    Whose silver lining held a draught
+    Of nectar as in heaven is quaffed--
+    A vase so vast, so bright to view,
+    They scarce could count the vision true.
+    Upon the King his eyes he bent,
+    And said: "The Lord of life has sent
+    His servant down, O Prince, to be
+    A messenger from heaven to thee."
+    The King with all his nobles by
+    Raised reverent hands and made reply:--
+    "Welcome, O glorious being! Say
+    How can my care thy grace repay,"
+    Envoy of Him whom all adore,
+    Thus to the King he spake once more:--
+    "The Gods accept thy worship--they
+    Give thee the blessed fruit to-day.
+    Approach and take, O glorious King,
+    This heavenly nectar which I bring,
+    For it shall give thee sons and wealth,
+    And bless thee with a store of health.
+    Give it to those fair queens of thine,
+    And bid them quaff the drink divine--
+    And they the princely sons shall bear
+    Long sought by sacrifice and prayer."
+
+    "Yea, O my lord," the monarch said,
+    And took the vase upon his head,
+    The gift of Gods, of fine gold wrought,
+    With store of heavenly liquor fraught.
+    He honored, filled with transport new,
+    That wondrous being, fair to view,
+    As round the envoy of the God
+    With reverential steps he trod.
+    His errand done, that form of light
+    Arose and vanished from the sight.
+    High rapture filled the monarch's soul,
+    Possessed of that celestial bowl,
+    As when a man by want distressed
+    With unexpected wealth is blest.
+    And rays of transport seemed to fall
+    Illuminating bower and hall,
+    As when the autumn moon rides high,
+    And floods with lovely light the sky.
+    Quick to the ladies' bower he sped,
+    And thus to Queen Kausaly� said:--
+    "This genial nectar take and quaff,"
+    He spoke, and gave the lady half.
+    Part of the nectar that remained
+    Sumitr� from his hand obtained.
+    He gave, to make her fruitful too,
+    Kaikey� half the residue.
+    A portion yet remaining there,
+    He paused awhile to think,
+    Then gave Sumitr�, with her share,
+    The remnant of the drink.
+    Thus on each queen of those fair three
+    A part the King bestowed,
+    And with sweet hope a child to see
+    Their yearning bosoms glowed.
+    The heavenly bowl the King supplied
+    Their longing souls relieved,
+    And soon, with rapture and with pride,
+    Each royal dame conceived.
+    He gazed upon each lady's face,
+    And triumphed as he gazed.
+    As Indra in his royal place
+    By Gods and spirits praised.
+
+
+
+CANTO XVI
+
+THE VANARS
+
+    When Vishnu thus had gone on earth,
+    From the great King to take his birth,
+    The self-existent Lord of all
+    Addressed the Gods who heard his call:--
+    "For Vishnu's sake, the strong and true,
+    Who seeks the good of all of you,
+    Make helps, in war to lend him aid,
+    In forms that change at will, arrayed,
+    Of wizard skill and hero might,
+    Outstrippers of the wind in flight,
+    Skilled in the arts of counsel, wise,
+    And Vishnu's peers in bold emprise;
+    With heavenly arts and prudence fraught,
+    By no devices to be caught;
+    Skilled in all weapons' lore and use
+    As they who drink the immortal juice.
+    And let the nymphs supreme in grace,
+    And maidens of the minstrel race,
+    Monkeys and snakes, and those who rove
+    Free spirits of the hill and grove,
+    And wandering Daughters of the Air,
+    In monkey form brave children bear.
+    So erst the lord of bears I shaped,
+    Born from my mouth as wide I gaped."
+
+    Thus by the mighty Sire addressed
+    They all obeyed his high behest,
+    And thus begot in countless swarms
+    Brave sons disguised in sylvan forms.
+    Each God, each sage became a sire,
+    Each minstrel of the heavenly choir.
+    Each faun, of children strong and good
+    Whose feet should roam the hill and wood.
+    Snakes, bards, and spirits, serpents bold
+    Had sons too numerous to be told.
+    B�li, the woodland hosts who led,
+    High as Mahendra's lofty head,
+    Was Indra's child. That noblest fire,
+    The Sun, was great Sugr�va's sire.
+    T�ra, the mighty monkey, he
+    Was offspring of Vrihaspati--
+    T�ra the matchless chieftain, boast
+    For wisdom of the V�nar host.
+    Of Gandham�dan brave and bold
+    The father was the Lord of Gold.
+    Nala the mighty, dear to fame,
+    Of skilful Visvakarm� came.
+    From Agni, N�la bright as flame,
+    Who in his splendor, might, and worth,
+    Surpassed the sire who gave him birth.
+    The heavenly Asvins, swift and fair,
+    Were fathers of a noble pair,
+    Who, Dwivida and Mainda named,
+    For beauty like their sires were famed.
+    Varun was father of Sushen,
+    Of Sarabh, he who sends the rain.
+    Hanum�n, best of monkey kind,
+    Was son of him who breathes the wind--
+    Like thunderbolt in frame was he,
+    And swift as Garud's self could flee.
+    These thousands did the Gods create
+    Endowed with might that none could mate,
+    In monkey forms that changed at will--
+    So strong their wish the fiend to kill.
+    In mountain size, like lions thewed,
+    Up-sprang the wondrous multitude,
+    Auxiliar hosts in every shape,
+    Monkey and bear and highland ape.
+    In each the strength, the might, the mien
+    Of his own parent God were seen.
+    Some chiefs of V�nar mothers came,
+    Some of she-bear and minstrel dame,
+    Skilled in all arms in battle's shock,
+    The brandished tree, the loosened rock;
+    And prompt, should other weapons fail,
+    To fight and slay with tooth and nail.
+    Their strength could shake the hills amain.
+    And rend the rooted trees in twain,
+    Disturb with their impetuous sweep
+    The Rivers' Lord, the Ocean deep,
+    Rend with their feet the seated ground,
+    And pass wide floods with airy bound--
+    Or forcing through the sky their way
+    The very clouds by force could stay.
+    Mad elephants that wander through
+    The forest wilds, could they subdue,
+    And with their furious shout could scare
+    Dead upon earth the birds of air.
+    So were the sylvan chieftains formed;
+    Thousands on thousands still they swarmed.
+    These were the leaders honored most,
+    The captains of the V�nar host,
+    And to each lord and chief and guide
+    Was monkey offspring born beside.
+    Then by the bears' great monarch stood
+    The other roamers of the wood,
+    And turned, their pathless homes to seek,
+    To forest and to mountain peak.
+    The leaders of the monkey band
+    By the two brothers took their stand,
+    Sugr�va, offspring of the Sun,
+    And B�li, Indra's mighty one.
+    They both endowed with Garud's might,
+    And skilled in all the arts of fight,
+    Wandered in arms the forest through,
+    And lions, snakes, and tigers, slew.
+    But every monkey, ape, and bear
+    Ever was B�li's special care;
+    With his vast strength and mighty arm
+    He kept them from all scathe and harm.
+    And so the earth with hill, wood, seas,
+    Was filled with mighty ones like these--
+    Of various shape and race and kind,
+    With proper homes to each assigned.
+    With R�ma's champions fierce and strong
+    The earth was overspread,
+    High as the hills and clouds, a throng
+    With bodies vast and dread.
+
+
+
+CANTO XVII
+
+RISHYASRING'S RETURN
+
+    Now when the high-souled monarch's rite,
+    The Asvamedh, was finished quite,
+    Their sacrificial dues obtained,
+    The Gods their heavenly homes regained.
+    The lofty-minded saints withdrew,
+    Each to his place, with honor due,
+    And kings and chieftains, one and all,
+    Who came to grace the festival.
+    And Dasaratha, ere they went,
+    Addressed them thus benevolent:--
+    "Now may you, each with joyful heart,
+    To your own realms, O Kings, depart.
+    Peace and good luck attend you there,
+    And blessing, is my friendly prayer;
+    Let cares of state each mind engage
+    To guard his royal heritage.
+    A monarch from his throne expelled
+    No better than the dead is held.
+    So he who cares for power and might
+    Must guard his realm and royal right.
+    Such care a meed in heaven will bring
+    Better than rites and offering.
+    Such care a king his country owes
+    As man upon himself bestows,
+    When for his body he provides
+    Raiment and every need besides.
+    For future days should kings foresee,
+    And keep the present error-free."
+    Thus did the King the kings exhort--
+    They heard, and turned them from the court,
+    And, each to each in friendship bound,
+    Went forth to all the realms around.
+    The rites were o'er, the guests were sped,
+    The train the best of Br�hmans led--
+    In which the King with joyful soul,
+    With his dear wives, and with the whole
+    Of his imperial host and train
+    Of cars and servants turned again,
+    And, as a monarch dear to fame,
+    Within his royal city came.
+
+    Next, Rishyasring, well-honored sage,
+    And S�nt�, sought their hermitage.
+    The King himself, of prudent mind,
+    Attended him, with troops behind,
+    And all her men the town outpoured
+    With Saint Vasishtha and their lord.
+    High mounted on a car of state,
+    O'ercanopied fair S�nt� sate,
+    Drawn by white oxen, while a band
+    Of servants marched on either hand.
+    Great gifts of countless price she bore,
+    With sheep and goats and gems in store.
+    Like Beauty's self the lady shone
+    With all the jewels she had on,
+    As, happy in her sweet content,
+    Peerless amid the fair she went.
+    Not Queen Paulom�'s self could be
+    More loving to her lord than she.
+    She who had lived in happy ease,
+    Honored with all her heart could please,
+    While dames and kinsfolk ever vied
+    To see her wishes gratified--
+    Soon as she knew her husband's will
+    Again to seek the forest, still
+    Was ready for the hermit's cot,
+    Nor murmured at her altered lot.
+    The King attended to the wild
+    That hermit and his own dear child,
+    And in the centre of a throng
+    Of noble courtiers rode along.
+    The sage's son had let prepare
+    A lodge within the wood, and there
+    Awhile they lingered blithe and gay,
+    Then, duly honored, went their way.
+    The glorious hermit Rishyasring
+    Drew near and thus besought the King:--
+    "Return, my honored lord, I pray,
+    Return, upon thy homeward way."
+    The monarch, with the waiting crowd,
+    Lifted his voice and wept aloud,
+    And with eyes dripping still to each
+    Of his good queens he spake this speech:--
+    "Kausaly� and Sumitr� dear,
+    And thou, my sweet Kaikey�, hear--
+    All upon S�nt� feast your gaze,
+    The last time for a length of days."
+    To 'S�nt�'s side the ladies leapt,
+    And hung about her neck and wept,
+    And cried, "O, happy be the life
+    Of this great Br�hman and his wife.
+    The Wind, the Fire, the Moon on high,
+    The Earth, the Streams, the circling Sky,
+    Preserve thee in the wood, true spouse,
+    Devoted to thy husband's vows.
+    And O dear S�nt�, ne'er neglect
+    To pay the dues of meek respect
+    To the great saint, thy husband's sire,
+    With all observance and with fire.
+    And, sweet one, pure of spot and blame.
+    Forget not thou thy husband's claim;
+    In every change, in good and ill,
+    Let thy sweet words delight him still,
+    And let thy worship constant be--
+    Her lord is woman's deity.
+    To learn thy welfare, dearest friend,
+    The King will many a Br�hman send.
+    Let happy thoughts thy spirit cheer,
+    And be not troubled, daughter dear."
+
+    These soothing words the ladies said,
+    And pressed their lips upon her head,
+    Each gave with sighs her last adieu,
+    Then at the King's command withdrew.
+    The King around the hermit went
+    With circling footsteps reverent,
+    And placed at Rishyasring's command
+    Some soldiers of his royal band.
+    The Br�hman bowed in turn and cried,
+    "May fortune never leave thy side.
+    O mighty King, with justice reign,
+    And still thy people's love retain."
+    He spoke, and turned away his face,
+    And, as the hermit went,
+    The monarch, rooted to the place,
+    Pursued with eyes intent.
+    But when the sage had passed from view
+    King Dasaratha turned him too,
+    Still fixing on his friend each thought,
+    With such deep love his breast was fraught.
+    Amid his people's loud acclaim
+    Home to his royal seat he came,
+    And lived delighted there--
+    Expecting when each queenly dame,
+    Upholder of his ancient fame,
+    Her promised son should bear.
+    The glorious sage his way pursued
+    Till close before his eyes he viewed
+    Sweet Champ�, Lomap�d's fair town,
+    Wreathed with her Champac's leafy crown.
+    Soon as the saint's approach he knew,
+    The King, to yield him honor due,
+    Went forth to meet him with a band
+    Of priests and nobles of the land:--
+    "Hail, Sage," he cried, "O joy to me!
+    What bliss it is, my lord, to see
+    Thee with thy wife and all thy train
+    Returning to my town again.
+    Thy father, honored Sage, is well,
+    Who hither from his woodland cell
+    Has sent full many a messenger
+    For tidings both of thee and her."
+    Then joyfully, for due respect,
+    The monarch bade the town be decked.
+    The King and Rishyasring elate
+    Entered the royal city's gate--
+    In front the chaplain rode.
+    Then, loved and honored with all care
+    By monarch and by courtier, there
+    The glorious saint abode.
+
+
+
+CANTO XVIII
+
+RISHYASRING'S DEPARTURE
+
+    The monarch called a Br�hman near
+    And said, "Now speed away
+    To Kasyap's son, the mighty seer,
+    And with all reverence say--
+    The holy child he holds so dear,
+    The hermit of the noble mind,
+    Whose equal it were hard to find,
+    Returned, is dwelling here.
+    Go, and instead of me do thou
+    Before that best of hermits bow,
+    That still he may for his dear son,
+    Show me the favor I have won."
+    Soon as the King these words had said,
+    To Kasyap's son the Br�hman sped.
+    Before the hermit low he bent
+    And did obeisance, reverent;
+    Then with meek words his grace to crave
+    The message of his lord he gave:--
+    "The high-souled father of his bride
+    Had called thy son his rites to guide--
+    Those rites are o'er, the steed is slain;
+    Thy noble child is come again."
+    Soon as the saint that speech had heard
+    His spirit with desire was stirred
+    To seek the city of the King
+    And to his cot his son to bring.
+    With young disciples at his side
+    Forth on his way the hermit hied,
+    While peasants from their hamlets ran
+    To reverence the holy man.
+    Each with his little gift of food,
+    Forth came the village multitude,
+    And, as they humbly bowed the head,
+    "What may we do for thee?" they said.
+    Then he, of Br�hmans first and best,
+    The gathered people thus addressed:--
+    "Now tell me, for I fain would know,
+    Why is it I am honored so?"
+    They to the high-souled saint replied:--
+    "Our ruler is with thee allied.
+    Our master's order we fulfil;
+    O Br�hman, let thy mind be still."
+
+    With joy the saintly hermit heard
+    Each pleasant and delightful word,
+    And poured a benediction down
+    On King and ministers and town.
+    Glad at the words of that high saint
+    Some servants hastened to acquaint
+    Their King, rejoicing to impart
+    The tidings that would cheer his heart.
+    Soon as the joyful tale he knew
+    To meet the saint the monarch flew,
+    The guest-gift in his hand he brought,
+    And bowed before him and besought:--
+    "This day by seeing thee I gain
+    Not to have lived my life in vain.
+    Now be not wroth with me, I pray,
+    Because I wiled thy son away."
+    The best of Br�hmans answer made:--
+    "Be not, great lord of Kings, afraid.
+    Thy virtues have not failed to win
+    My favor, O thou pure of sin."
+    Then in the front the saint was placed,
+    The King came next in joyous haste,
+    And with him entered his abode,
+    'Mid glad acclaim as on they rode.
+    To greet the sage the reverent crowd
+    Raised suppliant hands and humbly bowed.
+    Then from the palace many a dame
+    Following well-dressed S�nt� came,
+    Stood by the mighty saint and cried:--
+    "See, honor's source, thy son's dear bride."
+    The saint, who every virtue knew,
+    His arms around his daughter threw,
+    And with a father's rapture pressed
+    The lady to his wondering breast.
+    Arising from the saint's embrace
+    She bowed her low before his face,
+    And then, with palm to palm applied,
+    Stood by her hermit father's side.
+    He for his son, as laws ordain,
+    Performed the rite that frees from stain,
+    And, honored by the wise and good,
+    With him departed to the wood.
+
+
+
+CANTO XIX
+
+THE BIRTH OF THE PRINCES
+
+    The seasons six, in rapid flight,
+    Had circled since that glorious rite.
+    Eleven months had passed away--
+    'Twas Chaitra's ninth returning day.
+    The moon within that mansion shone
+    Which Aditi looks so kindly on.
+    Raised to their apex in the sky
+    Five brilliant planets beamed on high.
+    Shone with the moon, in Cancer's sign,
+    Vrihaspati with light divine.
+    Kausaly� bore an infant blest
+    With heavenly marks of grace impressed;
+    R�ma, the universe's lord,
+    A prince by all the worlds adored.
+    New glory Queen Kausaly� won
+    Reflected from her splendid son.
+    So Aditi shone more and more,
+    The Mother of the Gods, when she
+    The King of the Immortals bore,
+    The thunder-wielding deity.
+    The lotus-eyed, the beauteous boy,
+    He came fierce R�van to destroy;
+    From half of Vishnu's vigor born,
+    He came to help the worlds forlorn.
+    And Queen Kaikey� bore a child
+    Of truest valor, Bharat styled,
+    With every princely virtue blest,
+    One-fourth of Vishnu manifest.
+    Sumitr� too a noble pair,
+    Called Lakshman and Satrughna, bare,
+    Of high emprise, devoted, true,
+    Sharers in Vishnu's essence too.
+    'Neath Pushya's mansion, M�na's sign,
+    Was Bharat born, of soul benign.
+    The sun had reached the Crab at morn
+    When Queen Sumitr�'s babes were born,
+    What time the moon had gone to make
+    His nightly dwelling with the Snake.
+    The high-souled monarch's consorts bore
+    At different times those glorious four,
+    Like to himself and virtuous, bright
+    As Proshthapad�'s fourfold light.
+
+    Then danced the nymphs' celestial throng,
+    The minstrels raised their strain;
+    The drums of heaven pealed loud and long,
+    And flowers came down in rain.
+    Within Ayodhy�, blithe and gay,
+    All kept the joyous holiday.
+    The spacious square, the ample road
+    With mimes and dancers overflowed,
+    And with the voice of music rang
+    Where minstrels played and singers sang--
+    And shone, a wonder to behold,
+    With dazzling show of gems and gold.
+    Nor did the King his largess spare,
+    For minstrel, driver, bard, to share;
+    Much wealth the Br�hmans bore away,
+    And many thousand kine that day.
+    Soon as each babe was twelve days old
+    Twas time the naming rite to hold,
+    When Saint Vasishtha, rapt with joy,
+    Assigned a name to every boy.
+    R�ma, to him the high-souled heir,
+    Bharat, to him Kaikey� bare--
+    Of Queen Sumitr� one fair son
+    Was Lakshman, and Satrughna one.
+    R�ma, his sire's supreme delight,
+    Like some proud banner cheered his sight,
+    And to all creatures seemed to be
+    The self-existent deity.
+    All heroes, versed in holy lore,
+    To all mankind great love they bore.
+    Fair stores of wisdom all possessed,
+    With princely graces all were blest.
+    But mid those youths of high descent,
+    With lordly light pre�minent,
+    Like the full moon unclouded shone
+    R�ma, the world's dear paragon.
+    He best the elephant could guide,
+    Urge the fleet car, the charger ride--
+    A master he of bowman's skill,
+    Joying to do his father's will.
+    The world's delight and darling, he
+    Loved Lakshman best from infancy;
+    And Lakshman, lord of lofty fate,
+    Upon his elder joyed to wait,
+    Striving his second self to please
+    With friendship's sweet observances.
+    His limbs the hero ne'er would rest
+    Unless the couch his brother pressed;
+    Except beloved R�ma shared
+    He could not taste the meal prepared.
+    When R�ma, pride of Raghu's race,
+    Sprang on his steed to urge the chase,
+    Behind him Lakshman loved to go
+    And guard him with his trusty bow.
+    As R�ma was to Lakshman dear
+    More than his life and ever near,
+    So fond Satrughna prized above
+    His very life his Bharat's love.
+    Illustrious heroes, nobly kind
+    In mutual love they all combined,
+    And gave their royal sire delight
+    With modest grace and warrior might;
+    Supported by the glorious four
+    Shone Dasaratha more and more,
+    As though, with every guardian God
+    Who keeps the land and skies,
+    The Father of all creatures trod
+    The earth before men's eyes.
+
+
+
+CANTO XX
+
+VISV�MITRA'S VISIT
+
+    NOW Dasaratha's pious mind
+    Meet wedlock for his sons designed;
+    With priests and friends the King began
+    To counsel and prepare his plan.
+    Such thoughts engaged his bosom, when,
+    To see Ayodhy�'s lord of men,
+    A mighty saint of glorious fame,
+    The hermit Visv�mitra came.
+    For evil fiends that roam by night
+    Disturbed him in each holy rite,
+    And in their strength and frantic rage
+    Assailed with witcheries the sage.
+    He came to seek the monarch's aid
+    To guard the rites the demons stayed,
+    Unable to a close to bring
+    One unpolluted offering.
+    Seeking the King in this dire strait
+    He said to those who kept the gate:--
+    "Haste, warders, to your master run,
+    And say that here stands G�dhi's son."
+    Soon as they heard the holy man,
+    To the King's chamber swift they ran
+    With minds disordered all, and spurred
+    To wildest zeal by what they heard.
+    On to the royal hall they sped,
+    There stood and lowly bowed the head,
+    And made the lord of men aware
+    That the great saint was waiting there.
+    The King with priest and peer arose
+    And ran the sage to meet,
+    As Indra from his palace goes
+    Lord Brahm�'s self to greet.
+    When glowing with celestial light
+    The pious hermit was in sight,
+    The King, whose mien his transport showed,
+    The honored gift for guests bestowed.
+    Nor did the saint that gift despise,
+    Offered as holy texts advise;
+    He kindly asked the earth's great King
+    How all with him was prospering.
+    The son of Kus�k bade him tell
+    If all in town and field were well,
+    All well with friends, and kith and kin,
+    And royal treasure stored within:--
+    "Do all thy neighbors own thy sway?
+    Thy foes confess thee yet?
+    Dost thou continue still to pay
+    To Gods and men each debt?"
+    Then he, of hermits first and best,
+    Vasishtha with a smile addressed,
+    And asked him of his welfare too,
+    Showing him honor as was due.
+    Then with the sainted hermit all
+    Went joyous to the monarch's hall,
+    And sate them down by due degree,
+    Each one, of rank and dignity.
+    Joy filled the noble prince's breast
+    Who thus bespoke the honored guest:--
+    "As Amrit by a mortal found,
+    As rain upon the thirsty ground,
+    As to an heirless man a son
+    Born to him of his precious one--
+    As gain of what we sorely miss,
+    As sudden dawn of mighty bliss,
+    So is thy coming here to me--
+    All welcome, mighty Saint, to thee.
+    What wish within thy heart hast thou!
+    If I can please thee, tell me how.
+    Hail, Saint, from whom all honors flow,
+    Worthy of all I can bestow.
+    Blest is my birth with fruit to-day,
+    Nor has my life been thrown away.
+    I see the best of Br�hman race,
+    And night to glorious morn gives place.
+    Thou, holy Sage, in days of old
+    Among the royal saints enrolled,
+    Didst, penance-glorified, within
+    The Br�hman caste high station win.
+    'Tis meet and right in many a way
+    That I to thee should honor pay.
+    This seems a marvel to mine eyes--
+    All sin thy visit purifies;
+    And I by seeing thee, O Sage,
+    Have reaped the fruit of pilgrimage.
+    Then say what thou wouldst have me do.
+    That thou hast sought this interview.
+    Favored by thee, my wish is still,
+    O Hermit, to perform thy will.
+    Nor needest thou at length explain
+    The object that thy heart would gain.
+    Without reserve I grant it now--
+    My deity, O Lord, art thou."
+    The glorious hermit, far renowned.
+    With highest fame and virtue crowned,
+    Rejoiced these modest words to hear
+    Delightful to the mind and ear.
+
+
+
+CANTO XXI
+
+VISV�MITRA'S SPEECH
+
+    The hermit heard with high content
+    That speech so wondrous eloquent,
+    And while each hair with joy arose,
+    He thus made answer at the close:--
+    "Good is thy speech, O noble King,
+    And like thyself in everything.
+    So should their lips be wisdom-fraught
+    Whom kings begot, Vasishtha taught.
+    The favor which I came to seek
+    Thou grantest ere my tongue can speak.
+    But let my tale attention claim,
+    And hear the need for which I came.
+    O King, as Scripture texts allow,
+    A holy rite employs me now.
+    Two fiends who change their forms at will
+    Impede that rite with cursed skill.
+    Oft when the task is nigh complete,
+    These worst of fiends my toil defeat,
+    Throw bits of bleeding flesh, and o'er
+    The altar shed a stream of gore.
+    When thus the rite is mocked and stayed.
+    And all my pious hopes delayed,
+    Cast down in heart the spot I leave,
+    And spent with fruitless labor grieve.
+    Nor can I, checked by prudence, dare
+    Let loose my fury on them there--
+    The muttered curse, the threatening word,
+    In such a rite must ne'er be heard.
+    Thy grace the rite from check can free,
+    And yield the fruit I long to see.
+    Thy duty bids thee, King, defend
+    The suffering guest, the suppliant friend.
+    Give me thy son, thine eldest born,
+    Whom locks like raven's wings adorn.
+    That hero youth, the truly brave,
+    Of thee, O glorious King, I crave.
+    For he can lay those demons low
+    Who mar my rites and work me woe:
+    My power shall shield the youth from harm,
+    And heavenly might shall nerve his arm.
+    And on my champion will I shower
+    Unnumbered gifts of varied power--
+    Such gifts as shall ensure his fame
+    And spread through all the worlds his name.
+    Be sure those fiends can never stand
+    Before the might of R�ma's hand,
+    And mid the best and bravest none
+    Can slay that pair but Raghu's son.
+    Entangled in the toils of Fate
+    Those sinners, proud and obstinate,
+    Are, in their fury overbold,
+    No match for R�ma, mighty-souled.
+    Nor let a father's breast give way
+    Too far to fond affection's sway.
+    Count thou the fiends already slain:
+    My word is pledged, nor pledged in vain.
+    I know the hero R�ma well
+    In whom high thoughts and valor dwell;
+    So does Vasishtha, so do these
+    Engaged in long austerities.
+    If thou would do the righteous deed,
+    And win high fame, thy virtue's meed,
+    Fame that on earth shall last and live,
+    To me, great King, thy R�ma give.
+    If to the words that I have said,
+    With Saint Vasishtha at their head
+    Thy holy men, O King, agree,
+    Then let thy R�ma go with me.
+    Ten nights my sacrifice will last,
+    And ere the stated time be past
+    Those wicked fiends, those impious twain,
+    Must fall by wondrous R�ma slain.
+    Let not the hours, I warn thee, fly,
+    Fixt for the rite, unheeded by;
+    Good luck have thou, O royal Chief,
+    Nor give thy heart to needless grief."
+
+    Thus in fair words with virtue fraught,
+    The pious glorious saint besought.
+    But the good speech with poignant sting
+    Pierced ear and bosom of the King,
+    Who, stabbed with pangs too sharp to bear,
+    Fell prostrate and lay fainting there.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXII
+
+DASARATHA'S SPEECH
+
+    His tortured senses all astray,
+    Awhile the hapless monarch lay,
+    Then slowly gathering thought and strength
+    To Visv�mitra spoke at length:--
+    "My son is but a child, I ween;
+    This year he will be just sixteen.
+    How is he fit for such emprise,
+    My darling with the lotus eyes?
+    A mighty army will I bring
+    That calls me master, lord, and King,
+    And with its countless squadrons fight
+    Against these rovers of the night.
+    My faithful heroes skilled to wield
+    The arms of war will take the field;
+    Their skill the demons' might may break:
+    R�ma, my child, thou must not take.
+    I, even I, my bow in hand,
+    Will in the van of battle stand,
+    And, while my soul is left alive,
+    With the night-roaming demons strive.
+    Thy guarded sacrifice shall be
+    Completed, from all hindrance free.
+    Thither will I my journey make:
+    R�ma, my child, thou must not take.
+    A boy unskilled, he knows not yet
+    The bounds to strength and weakness set.
+    No match is he for demon foes
+    Who magic arts to arms oppose.
+    O chief of saints, I have no power,
+    Of R�ma reft, to live one hour--
+    Mine aged heart at once would break:
+    R�ma, my child, thou must not take.
+    Nine thousand circling years have fled
+    With all their seasons o'er my head,
+    And as a hard-won boon, O Sage,
+    These sons have come to cheer mine age.
+    My dearest love amid the four
+    Is he whom first his mother bore,
+    Still dearer for his virtue's sake;
+    R�ma, my child, thou must not take.
+    But if, unmoved by all I say,
+    Thou needs must bear my son away,
+    Let me lead with him, I entreat,
+    A fourfold army all complete.
+    What is the demons' might, O Sage?
+    Who are they? What their parentage?
+    What is their size? What beings lend
+    Their power to guard them and befriend?
+    How can my son their arts withstand?
+    Or I or all my armed band?
+    Tell me the whole that I may know
+    To met in war each evil foe
+    Whom conscious might inspires with pride."
+
+    And Visv�mitra thus replied:--
+    "Sprung from Pulastya's race there came
+    A giant known by R�van's name.
+    Once favored by the Eternal Sire
+    He plagues the worlds in ceaseless ire,
+    For peerless power and might renowned,
+    By giant bands encompassed round.
+    Visravas for his sire they hold,
+    His brother is the Lord of Gold.
+    King of the giant hosts is he,
+    And worst of all in cruelty.
+    This R�van's dread commands impel
+    Two demons who in might excel,
+    M�r�cha and Suv�hu Light,
+    To trouble and impede the rite."
+    Then thus the King addressed the sage:--
+    "No power have I, my lord, to wage
+    War with this evil-minded foe;
+    Now pity on my darling show,
+    And upon me of hapless fate,
+    For thee as God I venerate.
+    Gods, spirits, bards of heavenly birth,
+    The birds of air, the snakes of earth
+    Before the might of R�van quail,
+    Much less can mortal man avail.
+    He draws, I hear, from out the breast,
+    The valor of the mightiest.
+    No, ne'er can I with him contend,
+    Or with the forces he may send.
+    How can I then my darling lend,
+    Godlike, unskilled in battle? No,
+    I will not let my young child go.
+    Foes of thy rite, those mighty ones,
+    Sunda and Upasunda's sons,
+    Are fierce as Fate to overthrow:
+    I will not let my young child go.
+    M�r�cha and Suv�hu fell
+    Are valiant and instructed well.
+    One of the twain I might attack
+    With all my friends their lord to back."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXIII
+
+VASISHTHA'S SPEECH
+
+    While thus the hapless monarch spoke,
+    Paternal love his utterance broke.
+    Then words like these the saint returned,
+    And fury in his bosom burned:--
+    "Didst thou, O King, a promise make,
+    And wishest now thy word to break?
+    A son of Raghu's line should scorn
+    To fail in faith, a man forsworn.
+    But if thy soul can bear the shame
+    I will return e'en as I came.
+    Live with thy sons, and joy be thine,
+    False scion of Kakutstha's line."
+    As Visv�mitra, mighty sage,
+    Was moved with this tempestuous rage,
+    Earth rocked and reeled throughout her frame,
+    And fear upon the Immortals came.
+    But Saint Vasishtha, wisest seer,
+    Observant of his vows austere,
+    Saw the whole world convulsed with dread,
+    And thus unto the monarch said:--
+    "Thou, born of old Ikshv�ku's seed,
+    Art Justice' self in mortal weed.
+    Constant and pious, blest by fate,
+    The right thou must not violate.
+    Thou, Raghu's son, so famous through
+    The triple world as just and true,
+    Perform thy bounden duty still,
+    Nor stain thy race by deed of ill.
+    If thou have sworn and now refuse
+    Thou must thy store of merit lose.
+    Then, Monarch, let thy R�ma go?
+    Nor fear for him the demon foe.
+    The fiends shall have no power to hurt
+    Him trained to war or inexpert--
+    Nor vanquish him in battle field,
+    For Kusik's son the youth will shield.
+    He is incarnate Justice, he
+    The best of men for bravery--
+    Embodied love of penance drear,
+    Among the wise without a peer.
+    Full well he knows, great Kusik's son,
+    The arms celestial, every one,
+    Arms from the Gods themselves concealed,
+    Far less to other men revealed.
+    These arms to him, when earth he swayed,
+    Mighty Kris�sva, pleased, conveyed.
+    Kris�sva's sons they are indeed,
+    Brought forth by Daksha's lovely seed,
+    Heralds of conquest, strong and bold,
+    Brilliant, of semblance manifold.
+    Jay� and Vijay�, most fair,
+    A hundred splendid weapons bare;
+    Of Jay�, glorious as the morn,
+    First fifty noble sons were born,
+    Boundless in size yet viewless too,
+    They came the demons to subdue.
+    And fifty children also came
+    Of Vijay� the beauteous dame,
+    Sanh�ras named, of mighty force,
+    Hard to assail or check in course;
+    Of these the hermit knows the use,
+    And weapons new can he produce.
+    All these the mighty saint will yield
+    To R�ma's hand, to own and wield;
+    And armed with these, beyond a doubt
+    Shall R�ma put those fiends to rout.
+    For R�ma and the people's sake,
+    For thine own good my counsel take,
+    Nor seek, O King, with fond delay,
+    The parting of thy son to stay."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXIV
+
+THE SPELLS
+
+    Vasishtha thus was speaking still:
+    The monarch, of his own free will,
+    Bade with quick zeal and joyful cheer
+    R�ma and Lakshman hasten near.
+    Mother and sire in loving care
+    Sped their dear son with rite and prayer;
+    Vasishtha blessed him ere he went,
+    O'er his loved head the father bent--
+    And then to Kusik's son resigned
+    R�ma with Lakshman close behind.
+    Standing by Visv�mitra's side,
+    The youthful hero, lotus-eyed,
+    The Wind-God saw, and sent a breeze
+    Whose sweet pure touch just waved the trees.
+    There fell from heaven a flowery rain,
+    And with the song and dance the strain
+    Of shell and tambour sweetly blent
+    As forth the son of Raghu went.
+    The hermit led: behind him came
+    The bow-armed R�ma, dear to fame,
+    Whose locks were like the raven's wing:--
+    Then Lakshman, closely following.
+    The Gods and Indra, filled with joy,
+    Looked down upon the royal boy,
+    And much they longed the death to see
+    Of their ten-headed enemy.
+    R�ma and Lakshman paced behind
+    That hermit of the lofty mind,
+    As the young Asvins, heavenly pair,
+    Follow Lord Indra through the air.
+    On arm and hand the guard they wore,
+    Quiver and bow and sword they bore;
+    Two fire-born Gods of War seemed they,
+    He, Siva's self who led the way.
+    Upon fair Sarj�'s southern shore
+    They now had walked a league or more,
+    When thus the sage in accents mild
+    To R�ma said: "Beloved child,
+    This lustral water duly touch:
+    My counsel will avail thee much.
+    Forget not all the words I say,
+    Nor let the occasion slip away.
+    Lo, with two spells I thee invest,
+    The mighty and the mightiest.
+    O'er thee fatigue shall ne'er prevail,
+    Nor age nor change thy limbs assail.
+    Thee powers of darkness ne'er shall smite
+    In tranquil sleep or wild delight.
+    No one is there in all the land
+    Thine equal for the vigorous hand.
+    Thou, when thy lips pronounce the spell,
+    Shalt have no peer in heaven or hell.
+    None in the world with thee shall vie,
+    O sinless one, in apt reply--
+    In fortune, knowledge, wit, and tact,
+    Wisdom to plan and skill to act.
+    This double science take, and gain
+    Glory that shall for aye remain.
+    Wisdom and judgment spring from each
+    Of these fair spells whose use I teach.
+    Hunger and thirst unknown to thee,
+    High in the worlds thy rank shall be.
+    For these two spells with might endued,
+    Are the Great Father's heavenly brood,
+    And thee, O Chief, may fitly grace,
+    Thou glory of Kakutstha's race.
+    Virtues which none can match are thine,
+    Lord, from thy birth, of gifts divine--
+    And now these spells of might shall cast
+    Fresh radiance o'er the gifts thou hast."
+    Then R�ma duly touched the wave,
+    Raised suppliant hands, bowed low his head,
+    And took the spells the hermit gave,
+    Whose soul on contemplation fed.
+    From him whose might these gifts enhanced
+    A brighter beam of glory glanced:--
+    So shines in all his autumn blaze
+    The Day-God of the thousand rays.
+    The hermit's wants those youths supplied,
+    As pupils used to holy guide.
+    And then the night in sweet content
+    On Sarj�'s pleasant bank they spent.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXV
+
+THE HERMITAGE OF LOVE
+
+
+    Soon as appeared the morning light
+    Up rose the mighty anchorite,
+    And thus to youthful R�ma said,
+    Who lay upon his leafy bed:--
+    "High fate is hers who calls thee son:
+    Arise, 'tis break of day;
+    Rise, Chief, and let those rites be done
+    Due at the morning's ray."
+    At that great sage's high behest
+    Up sprang the princely pair,
+    To bathing rites themselves addressed,
+    And breathed the holiest prayer.
+    Their morning task completed, they
+    To Visv�mitra came,
+    That store of holy works, to pay
+    The worship saints may claim.
+    Then to the hallowed spot they went
+    Along fair Sarj�'s side
+    Where mix her waters confluent
+    With three-pathed Gang�'s tide.
+    There was a sacred hermitage
+    Where saints devout of mind
+    Their lives through many a lengthened age
+    To penance had resigned.
+    That pure abode the princes eyed
+    With unrestrained delight,
+    And thus unto the saint they cried,
+    Rejoicing at the sight:--
+    "Whose is that hermitage we see?
+    Who makes his dwelling there?
+    Full of desire to hear are we:
+    O Saint, the truth declare."
+    The hermit, smiling, made reply
+    To the two boys' request:--
+    "Hear, R�ma, who in days gone by
+    This calm retreat possessed--
+    Kandarpa in apparent form,
+    (Called K�ma by the wise,)
+    Dared Um�'s new-wed lord to storm
+    And make the God his prize.
+    'Gainst Sth�nu's self, on rites austere
+    And vows intent, they say,
+    His bold rash hand he dared to rear,
+    Though Sth�nu cried, Away!
+    But the God's eye with scornful glare
+    Fell terrible on him,
+    Dissolved the shape that was so fair
+    And burnt up every limb.
+    Since the great God's terrific rage
+    Destroyed his form and frame,
+    K�ma in each succeeding age
+    Has borne Ananga's name.
+    So, where his lovely form decayed,
+    This land is Anga styled:--
+    Sacred to him of old this shade,
+    And hermits undefiled.
+    Here Scripture-talking elders sway
+    Each sense with firm control,
+    And penance-rites have washed away
+    All sin from every soul.
+    One night, fair boy, we here will spend,
+    A pure stream on each hand,
+    And with to-morrow's light will bend
+    Our steps to yonder strand.
+    Here let us bathe, and free from stain
+    To that pure grove repair,
+    Sacred to K�ma, and remain
+    One night in comfort there."
+    With penance' far-discerning eye
+    The saintly men beheld
+    Their coming, and with transport high
+    Each holy bosom swelled.
+    To Kusik's son the gift they gave
+    That honored guest should greet--
+    Water they brought his feet to lave,
+    And showed him honor meet.
+    R�ma and Lakshman next obtained
+    In due degree their share--
+    Then with sweet talk the guests remained,
+    And charmed each listener there.
+    The evening prayers were duly said
+    With voices calm and low:--
+    Then on the ground each laid his head
+    And slept till morning's glow.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXVI
+
+THE FOREST OF T�DAK�
+
+    When the fair light of morning rose
+    The princely tamers of their foes
+    Followed, his morning worship o'er,
+    The hermit to the river's shore.
+    The high-souled men with thoughtful care
+    A pretty barge had stationed there.
+    All cried, "O lord, this barge ascend,
+    And with thy princely followers bend
+    To yonder side thy prosperous way--
+    With nought to check thee or delay."
+    Nor did the saint their rede reject:
+    He bade farewell with due respect,
+    And crossed, attended by the twain,
+    That river rushing to the main.
+    When now the bark was half-way o'er,
+    R�ma and Lakshman heard the roar,
+    That louder grew and louder yet,
+    Of waves by dashing waters met.
+    Then R�ma asked the mighty seer:--
+    "What is the tumult that I hear
+    Of waters cleft in mid-career?"
+    Soon as the speech of R�ma, stirred
+    By deep desire to know, he heard,
+    The pious saint began to tell
+    What caused the waters' roar and swell:--
+    "On high Kail�sa's distant hill
+    There lies a noble lake
+    Whose waters, born from Brahm�'s will,
+    The name of M�nas take.
+    Thence, hallowing where'er they flow,
+    The streams of Sarj� fall,
+    And wandering through the plains below
+    Embrace Ayodhy�'s wall.
+    Still, still preserved in Sarj�'s name
+    Sarovar's fame we trace,
+    The flood of Brahm� whence she came
+    To run her holy race.
+    To meet great Gang� here she hies
+    With tributary wave--
+    Hence the loud roar ye hear arise,
+    Of floods that swell and rave.
+    Here, pride of Raghu's line, do thou
+    In humble adoration bow."
+
+    He spoke. The princes both obeyed,
+    And reverence to each river paid.
+    They reached the southern shore at last,
+    And gayly on their journey passed.
+    A little space beyond there stood
+    A gloomy awe-inspiring wood.
+    The monarch's noble son began
+    To question thus the holy man:--
+    "Whose gloomy forest meets mine eye,
+    Like some vast cloud that fills the sky?
+    Pathless and dark it seems to be,
+    Where birds in thousands wander free;
+    Where shrill cicadas' cries resound,
+    And fowl of dismal note abound.
+    Lion, rhinoceros, and bear,
+    Boar, tiger, elephant, are there,
+    There shrubs and thorns run wild:
+    Dh�o, S�l, Bignonia, Bel, are found,
+    And every tree that grows on ground:
+    How is the forest styled?"
+    The glorious saint this answer made:--
+    "Dear child of Raghu, hear
+    Who dwells within the horrid shade
+    That looks so dark and drear.
+    Where now is wood, long ere this day
+    Two broad and fertile lands,
+    Malaja and Kar�sha lay,
+    Adorned by heavenly hands.
+    Here, mourning friendship's broken ties,
+    Lord Indra of the thousand eyes
+    Hungered and sorrowed many a day,
+    His brightness soiled with mud and clay,
+    When in a storm of passion he
+    Had slain his dear friend Namuchi.
+    Then came the Gods and saints who bore
+    Their golden pitchers brimming o'er
+    With holy streams that banish stain,
+    And bathed Lord Indra pure again.
+    When in this land the God was freed
+    From spot and stain of impious deed
+    For that his own dear friend he slew,
+    High transport thrilled his bosom through.
+    Then in his joy the lands he blessed,
+    And gave a boon they long possessed:--
+    "Because these fertile lands retain
+    The washings of the blot and stain,
+    ('Twas thus Lord Indra sware,)
+    Malaja and Kar�sha's name
+    Shall celebrate with deathless fame
+    My malady and care."
+    "So be it," all the Immortals cried,
+    When Indra's speech they heard--
+    And with acclaim they ratified
+    The names his lips conferred.
+    "Long time, O victor of thy foes,
+    These happy lands had sweet repose,
+    And higher still in fortune rose.
+    At length a spirit, loving ill,
+    T�dak�, wearing shapes at will--
+    Whose mighty strength, exceeding vast,
+    A thousand elephants' surpassed,
+    Was to fierce Sunda, lord and head
+    Of all the demon armies, wed.
+    From her, Lord Indra's peer in might
+    Giant M�r�cha sprang to light;
+    And she, a constant plague and pest,
+    These two fair realms has long distressed.
+    Now dwelling in her dark abode
+    A league away she bars the road:
+    And we, O R�ma, hence must go
+    Where lies the forest of the foe.
+    Now on thine own right arm rely,
+    And my command obey:
+    Smite the foul monster that she die,
+    And take the plague away.
+    To reach this country none may dare,
+    Fallen from its old estate,
+    Which she, whose fury nought can bear,
+    Has left so desolate.
+    And now my truthful tale is told--
+    How with accursed sway
+    The spirit plagued this wood of old,
+    And ceases not to-day."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXVII
+
+THE BIRTH OF T�DAK�
+
+    When thus the sage without a peer
+    Had closed that story strange to hear,
+    R�ma again the saint addressed,
+    To set one lingering doubt at rest:--
+    "O holy man, 'tis said by all
+    That spirits' strength is weak and small,
+    How can she match, of power so slight,
+    A thousand elephants in might?"
+    And Visv�mitra thus replied
+    To Raghu's son, the glorified:--
+    "Listen, and I will tell thee how
+    She gained the strength that arms her now.
+    A mighty spirit lived of yore;
+    Suketu was the name he bore.
+    Childless was he, and free from crime
+    In rites austere he passed his time.
+    The mighty Sire was pleased to show
+    His favor, and a child bestow,
+    T�dak� named, most fair to see,
+    A pearl among the maids was she--
+    And matched, for such was Brahm�'s dower,
+    A thousand elephants in power.
+    Nor would the Eternal Sire, although
+    The spirit longed, a son bestow.
+    That maid in beauty's youthful pride
+    Was given to Sunda for a bride.
+    Her son, M�r�cha was his name,
+    A giant, through a curse, became.
+    She, widowed, dared with him molest
+    Agastya, of all saints the best.
+    Inflamed with hunger's wildest rage,
+    Roaring she rushed upon the sage.
+    When the great hermit saw her near,
+    On-speeding in her fierce career,
+    He thus pronounced M�r�cha's doom:--
+    'A giant's form and shape assume,'
+    And then, by mighty anger swayed,
+    On T�dak� this curse he laid:--
+    'Thy present form and semblance quit,
+    And wear a shape thy mood to fit;
+    Changed form and feature by my ban,
+    A fearful thing that feeds on man.'
+    She, by his awful curse possessed,
+    And mad with rage that fills her breast,
+    Has on this land her fury dealt
+    Where once the saint Agastya dwelt.
+    Go, R�ma, smite this monster dead,
+    The wicked plague, of power so dread,
+    And further by this deed of thine
+    The good of Br�hmans and of kine.
+    Thy hand alone can overthrow,
+    In all the worlds, this impious foe.
+    Nor let compassion lead thy mind
+    To shrink from blood of womankind;
+    A monarch's son must ever count
+    The people's welfare paramount--
+    And whether pain or joy he deal
+    Dare all things for his subjects' weal;
+    Yea, if the deed bring praise or guilt,
+    If life be saved or blood be spilt:--
+    Such, through all time, should be the care
+    Of those a kingdom's weight who bear.
+    Slay, R�ma, slay this impious fiend,
+    For by no law her life is screened.
+    So Manthar�, as bards have told,
+    Virochan's child, was slain of old
+    By Indra, when in furious hate
+    She longed the earth to devastate.
+    So K�vya's mother, Bhrigu's wife,
+    Who loved her husband as her life,
+    When Indra's throne she sought to gain,
+    By Vishnu's hand of yore was slain.
+    By these and high-souled kings beside,
+    Struck down, have lawless women died."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXVIII
+
+THE DEATH OF T�DAK�
+
+    Thus spoke the saint. Each vigorous word
+    The noble monarch's offspring heard--
+    And, reverent hands together laid,
+    His answer to the hermit made:--
+    "My sire and mother bade me aye
+    Thy word, O mighty Saint, obey.
+    So will I, O most glorious, kill
+    This T�dak� who joys in ill--
+    For such my sire's, and such thy will.
+    To aid with mine avenging hand
+    The Br�hmans, kine, and all the land,
+    Obedient, heart and soul, I stand."
+    Thus spoke the tamer of the foe,
+    And by the middle grasped his bow.
+    Strongly he drew the sounding string
+    That made the distant welkin ring.
+    Scared by the mighty clang the deer
+    That roamed the forest shook with fear.
+    And T�dak� the echo heard,
+    And rose in haste from slumber stirred.
+    In wild amaze, her soul aflame
+    With fury towards the spot she came.
+    When that foul shape of evil mien
+    And stature vast as e'er was seen
+    The wrathful son of Raghu eyed,
+    He thus unto his brother cried:--
+    "Her dreadful shape, O Lakshman, see,
+    A form to shudder at and flee.
+    The hideous monster's very view
+    Would cleave a timid heart in two.
+    Behold the demon hard to smite,
+    Defended by her magic might.
+    My hand shall stay her course to-day,
+    And shear her nose and ears away.
+    No heart have I her life to take:
+    I spare it for her sex's sake.
+    My will is but--with minished force--
+    To check her in her evil course."
+    While thus he spoke, by rage impelled--
+    Roaring as she came nigh,
+    The fiend her course at R�ma held
+    With huge arms tossed on high.
+    Her, rushing on, the seer assailed
+    With a loud cry of hate;
+    And thus the sons of Raghu hailed:--
+    "Fight, and be fortunate."
+    Then from the earth a horrid cloud
+    Of dust the demon raised,
+    And for awhile in darkling shroud
+    Wrapt Raghu's sons amazed.
+    Then calling on her magic power
+    The fearful fight to wage,
+    She smote him with a stony shower,
+    Till R�ma burned with rage.
+    Then pouring forth his arrowy rain
+    That stony flood to stay,
+    With wing�d darts, as she charged amain,
+    He shore her hands away.
+    As T�dak� still thundered near
+    Thus maimed by R�ma's blows,
+    Lakshman in fury severed sheer
+    The monster's ears and nose.
+    Assuming by her magic skill
+    A fresh and fresh disguise,
+    She tried a thousand shapes at will,
+    Then vanished from their eyes.
+    When G�dhi's son of high renown
+    Still saw the stony rain pour down
+    Upon each princely warrior's head,
+    With words of wisdom thus he said:--
+    "Enough of mercy, R�ma, lest
+    This sinful evil-working pest,
+    Disturber of each holy rite,
+    Repair by magic arts her might.
+    Without delay the fiend should die,
+    For, see, the twilight hour is nigh.
+    And at the joints of night and day
+    Such giant foes are hard to slay."
+    Then R�ma, skilful to direct
+    His arrow to the sound--
+    With shafts the mighty demon checked
+    Who rained her stones around.
+    She, sore impeded and beset
+    By R�ma and his arrowy net--
+    Though skilled in guile and magic lore,
+    Rushed on the brothers with a roar.
+    Deformed, terrific, murderous, dread,
+    Swift as the levin on she sped--
+    Like cloudy pile in autumn's sky,
+    Lifting her two vast arms on high:
+    When R�ma smote her with a dart
+    Shaped like a crescent, to the heart.
+    Sore wounded by the shaft that came
+    With lightning speed and surest aim,
+    Blood spurting from her mouth and side,
+    She fell upon the earth and died.
+    Soon as the Lord who rules the sky
+    Saw the dread monster lifeless lie,
+    He called aloud, Well done! well done!
+    And the Gods honored Raghu's son.
+    Standing in heaven the Thousand-eyed,
+    With all the Immortals, joying cried:--
+    "Lift up thine eyes, O Saint, and see
+    The Gods and Indra nigh to thee.
+    This deed of R�ma's boundless might
+    Has filled our bosoms with delight.
+    Now, for our will would have it so,
+    To Raghu's son some favor show.
+    Invest him with the power which nought
+    But penance gains, and holy thought.
+    Those heavenly arms on him bestow--
+    To thee entrusted long ago
+    By great Kris�sva best of kings,
+    Son of the Lord of living things.
+    More fit recipient none can be
+    Than he who joys in following thee;
+    And for our sakes the monarch's seed
+    Has yet to do a mighty deed."
+
+    He spoke; and all the heavenly train
+    Rejoicing sought their homes again,
+    While honor to the saint they paid--
+    Then came the evening's twilight shade.
+    The best of hermits overjoyed
+    To know the monstrous fiend destroyed,
+    His lips on R�ma's forehead pressed,
+    And thus the conquering chief addressed:--
+    "O R�ma, gracious to the sight,
+    Here will we pass the present night,
+    And with the morrow's earliest ray
+    Bend to my hermitage our way."
+    The son of Dasaratha heard,
+    Delighted, Visv�mitra's word--
+    And as he bade, that night he spent
+    In T�dak�'s wild wood, content.
+    And the grove shone that happy day,
+    Freed from the curse that on it lay--
+    Like Chaitraratha fair and gay.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXIX
+
+THE CELESTIAL ARMS
+
+    That night they slept and took their rest;
+    And then the mighty saint addressed,
+    With pleasant smile and accents mild
+    These words to Raghu's princely child:--
+    "Well pleased am I. High fate be thine,
+    Thou scion of a royal line.
+    Now will I, for I love thee so,
+    All heavenly arms on thee bestow.
+    Victor with these, whoe'er oppose,
+    Thy hand shall conquer all thy foes--
+    Though Gods and spirits of the air,
+    Serpents and fiends, the conflict dare.
+    I'll give thee as a pledge of love
+    The mystic arms they use above,
+    For worthy thou to have revealed
+    The weapons I have learnt to wield.
+    First, son of Raghu, shall be thine
+    The arm of Vengeance, strong, divine:
+    The arm of Fate, the arm of Right,
+    And Vishnu's arm of awful might:--
+    That, before which no foe can stand,
+    The thunderbolt of Indra's hand;
+    And Siva's trident, sharp and dread,
+    And that dire weapon, Brahm�'s Head.
+    And two fair clubs, O royal child,
+    One Charmer and one Pointed styled--
+    With flame of lambent fire aglow,
+    On thee, O Chieftain, I bestow.
+    And Fate's dread net and Justice' noose
+    That none may conquer, for thy use:--
+    And the great cord, renowned of old,
+    Which Varun ever loves to hold.
+    Take these two thunderbolts, which I
+    Have got for thee, the Moist and Dry.
+    Here Siva's dart to thee I yield,
+    And that which Vishnu wont to wield.
+    I give to thee the arm of Fire,
+    Desired by all and named the Spire.
+    To thee I grant the Wind-God's dart,
+    Named Crusher, O thou pure of heart.
+    This arm, the Horse's Head, accept,
+    And this, the Curlew's Bill yclept,
+    And these two spears, the best e'er flew,
+    Named the Invincible and True.
+    And arms of fiends I make thine own,
+    Skull-wreath and mace that smashes bone.
+    And Joyous, which the spirits bear,
+    Great weapon of the sons of air.
+    Brave offspring of the best of lords,
+    I give thee now the Gem of swords--
+    And offer next, thine hand to arm,
+    The heavenly bard's beloved charm.
+    Now with two arms I thee invest
+    Of never-ending Sleep and Rest--
+    With weapons of the Sun and Rain,
+    And those that dry and burn amain;
+    And strong Desire with conquering touch,
+    The dart that K�ma prizes much.
+    I give the arm of shadowy powers
+    That bleeding flesh of man devours.
+    I give the arms the God of Gold
+    And giant fiends exult to hold.
+    This smites the foe in battle-strife,
+    And takes his fortune, strength, and life.
+    I give the arms called False and True,
+    And great Illusion give I too;
+    The hero's arm called Strong and Bright
+    That spoils the foeman's strength in fight.
+    I give thee as a priceless boon
+    The Dew, the weapon of the Moon,
+    And add the weapon, deftly planned,
+    That strengthens Visvakarm�'s hand.
+    The Mortal dart whose point is chill,
+    And Slaughter, ever sure to kill;
+    All these and other arms, for thou
+    Art very dear, I give thee now.
+    Receive these weapons from my hand,
+    Son of the noblest in the land."
+    Facing the east, the glorious saint
+    Pure from all spot of earthly taint,
+    To R�ma, with delighted mind,
+    That noble host of spells consigned.
+    He taught the arms, whose lore is won
+    Hardly by Gods, to Raghu's son.
+    He muttered low the spell whose call
+    Summons those arms and rules them all--
+    And each, in visible form and frame,
+    Before the monarch's son they came.
+    They stood and spoke in reverent guise
+    To R�ma with exulting cries:--
+    "O noblest child of Raghu, see,
+    Thy ministers and thralls are we."
+    With joyful heart and eager hand
+    R�ma received the wondrous band,
+    And thus with words of welcome cried:--
+    "Aye present to my will abide"--
+    Then hasted to the saint to pay
+    Due reverence, and pursued his way.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXX
+
+THE MYSTERIOUS POWERS
+
+
+    Pure, with glad cheer and joyful breast,
+    Of those mysterious arms possessed,
+    R�ma, now passing on his way,
+    Thus to the saint began to say:--
+    "Lord of these mighty weapons, I
+    Can scarce be harmed by Gods on high;
+    Now, best of saints, I long to gain
+    The powers that can these arms restrain."
+    Thus spoke the prince. The sage austere,
+    True to his vows, from evil clear,
+    Called forth the names of those great charms
+    Whose powers restrain the deadly arms.
+    "Receive thou True and Truly-famed,
+    And Bold and Fleet: the weapons named
+    Warder and Progress, swift of pace,
+    Averted-head and Drooping-face;
+    The Seen, and that which Secret flies--
+    The weapon of the thousand eyes;
+    Ten-headed, and the Hundred-faced,
+    Star-gazer and the Layer-waste;
+    The Omen-bird, the Pure-from-spot,
+    The pair that wake and slumber not;
+    The Fiendish, that which shakes amain,
+    The Strong-of-Hand, the Rich-in-Gain;
+    The Guardian, and the Close-allied,
+    The Gaper, Love, and Golden-side:--
+    O Raghu's son receive all these,
+    Bright ones that wear what forms they please;
+    Kris�sva's mystic sons are they,
+    And worthy thou their might to sway."
+    With joy the pride of Raghu's race
+    Received the hermit's proffered grace--
+    Mysterious arms, to check and stay,
+    Or smite the foeman in the fray.
+    Then, all with heavenly forms endued,
+    Nigh came the wondrous multitude.
+    Celestial in their bright attire
+    Some shone like coals of burning fire--
+    Some were like clouds of dusky smoke;
+    And suppliant thus they sweetly spoke:--
+    "Thy thralls, O R�ma, here we stand--
+    Command, we pray, thy faithful band."
+    "Depart," he cried, "where each may list,
+    But when I call you to assist,
+    Be present to my mind with speed,
+    And aid me in the hour of need."
+
+    To R�ma then they lowly bent,
+    And round him in due reverence went--
+    To his command they answered, "Yea,"
+    And as they came so went away.
+    When thus the arms had homeward flown,
+    With pleasant words and modest tone,
+    E'en as he walked, the prince began
+    To question thus the holy man:--
+    "What cloudlike wood is that which near
+    The mountain's side I see appear?
+    O tell me, for I long to know:
+    Its pleasant aspect charms me so.
+    Its glades are full of deer at play,
+    And sweet birds sing on every spray.
+    Passed is the hideous wild--I feel
+    So sweet a tremor o'er me steal--
+    And hail with transport fresh and new
+    A land that is so fair to view.
+    Then tell me all, thou holy Sage,
+    And whose this pleasant hermitage
+    In which those wicked ones delight
+    To mar and kill each holy rite--
+    And with foul heart and evil deed
+    Thy sacrifice, great Saint, impede.
+    To whom, O Sage, belongs this land
+    In which thine altars ready stand?
+    'Tis mine to guard them, and to slay
+    The giants who the rites would stay.
+    All this, O best of saints, I burn
+    From thine own lips, my lord, to learn."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXXI
+
+THE PERFECT HERMITAGE
+
+
+    Thus spoke the prince of boundless might,
+    And thus replied the anchorite:--
+    "Chief of the mighty arm, of yore
+    Lord Vishnu, whom the Gods adore
+    For holy thought and rites austere,
+    Of penance made his dwelling here.
+    This ancient wood was called of old
+    Grove of the Dwarf, the mighty-souled--
+    And when perfection he attained
+    The grove the name of Perfect gained.
+    Bali of yore, Virochan's son,
+    Dominion over Indra won--
+    And when with power his proud heart swelled,
+    O'er the three worlds his empire held.
+    When Bali then began a rite,
+    The Gods and Indra in affright
+    Sought Vishnu in this place of rest,
+    And thus with prayers the God addressed:--
+    'Bali, Virochan's mighty son,
+    His sacrifice has now begun:
+    Of boundless wealth, that demon king
+    Is bounteous to each living thing.
+    Though suppliants flock from every side
+    The suit of none is e'er denied.
+    Whate'er, where'er, howe'er the call,
+    He hears the suit and gives to all.
+    Now with thine own illusive art
+    Perform, O Lord, the helper's part:
+    Assume a dwarfish form, and thus
+    From fear and danger rescue us.'
+    Thus in their dread the Immortals sued
+    The God, a dwarfish shape indued:--
+    Before Virochan's son he came,
+    Three steps of land his only claim.
+    The boon obtained, in wondrous wise
+    Lord Vishnu's form increased in size;
+    Through all the worlds, tremendous, vast,
+    God of the Triple Step, he passed.
+    The whole broad earth from side to side
+    He measured with one mighty stride--
+    Spanned with the next the firmament,
+    And with the third through heaven he went.
+    Thus was the king of demons hurled
+    By Vishnu to the nether world--
+    And thus the universe restored
+    To Indra's rule, its ancient lord.
+    And now because the Immortal God
+    This spot in dwarflike semblance trod,
+    The grove has aye been loved by me
+    For reverence of the devotee.
+    But demons haunt it, prompt to stay
+    Each holy offering I would pay.
+    Be thine, O lion-lord, to kill
+    These giants that delight in ill.
+    This day, beloved child, our feet
+    Shall rest within the calm retreat;
+    And know, thou chief of Raghu's line,
+    My hermitage is also thine."
+    He spoke; and soon the anchorite,
+    With joyous looks that beamed delight,
+    With R�ma and his brother stood
+    Within the consecrated wood.
+    Soon as they saw the holy man,
+    With one accord together ran
+    The dwellers in the sacred shade,
+    And to the saint their reverence paid--
+    And offered water for his feet,
+    The gift of honor, and a seat;
+    And next with hospitable care
+    They entertained the princely pair.
+    The royal tamers of their foes
+    Rested awhile in sweet repose--
+    Then to the chief of hermits sued
+    Standing in suppliant attitude:--
+    "Begin, O best of saints, we pray,
+    Initiatory rites to-day.
+    This Perfect Grove shall be anew
+    Made perfect, and thy words be true."
+
+    Then, thus addressed, the holy man,
+    The very glorious sage, began
+    The high preliminary rite,
+    Restraining sense and appetite.
+    Calmly the youths that night reposed,
+    And rose when morn her light disclosed--
+    Their morning worship paid, and took
+    Of lustral water from the brook.
+    Thus purified they breathed the prayer,
+    Then greeted Visv�mitra where
+    As celebrant he sate beside
+    The flame with sacred oil supplied.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXXII
+
+VISV�MITRA'S SACRIFICE
+
+    That conquering pair, of royal race,
+    Skilled to observe due time and place--
+    To K�sik's hermit son addressed,
+    In timely words, their meet request:--
+    "When must we, lord, we pray thee tell,
+    Those Rovers of the Night repel?
+    Speak, lest we let the moment fly,
+    And pass the due occasion by."
+    Thus longing for the strife, they prayed,
+    And thus the hermit's answer made:--
+    "Till the fifth day be come and past,
+    O Raghu's sons, your watch must last.
+    The saint his D�ksh� has begun,
+    And all that time will speak to none."
+    Soon as the steadfast devotees
+    Had made reply in words like these,
+    The youths began, disdaining sleep,
+    Six days and nights their watch to keep--
+    The warrior pair who tamed the foe,
+    Unrivalled benders of the bow,
+    Kept watch and ward unwearied still
+    To guard the saint from scathe and ill.
+    Twas now the sixth returning day,
+    The hour foretold had passed away.
+    Then R�ma cried: "O Lakshman, now!
+    Firm, watchful, resolute be thou.
+    The fiends as yet have kept afar
+    From the pure grove in which we are;
+    Yet waits us, ere the day shall close,
+    Dire battle with the demon foes."
+    While thus spoke R�ma, borne away
+    By longing for the deadly fray,
+    See! bursting from the altar came
+    The sudden glory of the flame;
+    Round priest and deacon, and upon
+    Grass, ladles, flowers, the splendor shone--
+    And the high rite, in order due,
+    With sacred texts began anew.
+    But then a loud and fearful roar
+    Re-echoed through the sky;
+    And like vast clouds that shadow o'er
+    The heavens in dark July,
+    Involved in gloom of magic might
+    Two fiends rushed on amain--
+    M�r�cha, Rover of the Night,
+    Suv�hu, and their train.
+    As on they came in wild career
+    Thick blood in rain they shed;
+    And R�ma saw those things of fear
+    Impending overhead. Then, soon as those accursed two
+    Who showered down blood he spied,
+    Thus to his brother brave and true
+    Spoke R�ma lotus-eyed:--
+    "Now, Lakshman, thou these fiends shalt see,
+    Man-eaters, foul of mind,
+    Before my mortal weapon flee
+    Like clouds before the wind."
+    He spoke. An arrow, swift as thought,
+    Upon his bow he pressed,
+    And smote, to utmost fury wrought,
+    M�r�cha on the breast.
+    Deep in his flesh the weapon lay
+    Winged by the mystic spell,
+    And, hurled a hundred leagues away,
+    In ocean's flood he fell.
+    Then R�ma, when he saw the foe
+    Convulsed and mad with pain
+    'Neath the chill-pointed weapon's blow,
+    To Lakshman spoke again:--
+    "See, Lakshman, see! this mortal dart
+    That strikes a numbing chill,
+    Hath struck him senseless with the smart,
+    But left him breathing still.
+    But these who love the evil way
+    And drink the blood they spill,
+    Rejoicing holy rites to stay,
+    Fierce plagues, my hand shall kill."
+    He seized another shaft, the best,
+    Aglow with living flame;
+    It struck Suv�hu on the chest,
+    And dead to earth he came.
+    Again a dart, the Wind-God's own,
+    Upon his string he laid,
+    And all the demons were overthrown--
+    The saints no more afraid.
+    When thus the fiends were slain in fight,
+    Disturbers of each holy rite,
+    Due honor by the saints was paid
+    To R�ma for his wondrous aid:--
+    So Indra is adored when he
+    Has won some glorious victory.
+    Success at last the rite had crowned,
+    And Visv�mitra gazed around--
+    And seeing every side at rest,
+    The son of Raghu thus addressed:--
+    "My joy, O Prince, is now complete--
+    Thou hast obeyed my will:
+    Perfect before, this calm retreat
+    Is now more perfect still."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXXIII
+
+THE SONE
+
+    Their task achieved, the princes spent
+    That night with joy and full content.
+    Ere yet the dawn was well displayed
+    Their morning rites they duly paid--
+    And sought, while yet the light was faint,
+    The hermits and the mighty saint.
+    They greeted first that holy sire
+    Resplendent like the burning fire,
+    And then with noble words began
+    Their sweet speech to the sainted man:--
+    "Here stand, O lord, thy servants true--
+    Command what thou wouldst have us do."
+    The saints, by Visv�mitra led,
+    To R�ma thus in answer said:--
+    "Janak, the king who rules the land
+    Of fertile Mithil�, has planned
+    A noble sacrifice, and we
+    Will thither go the rite to see.
+    Thou, Prince of men, with us shalt go,
+    And there behold the wondrous bow--
+    Terrific, vast, of matchless might,
+    Which, splendid at the famous rite,
+    The Gods assembled gave the King.
+    No giant, fiend, or God can string
+    That gem of bows, no heavenly bard;
+    Then, sure, for man the task were hard.
+    When lords of earth have longed to know
+    The virtue of that wondrous bow,
+    The strongest sons of kings in vain
+    Have tried the mighty cord to strain.
+    This famous bow thou there shalt view,
+    And wondrous rites shalt witness too.
+    The high-souled king who lords it o'er
+    The realm of Mithil�, of yore
+    Gained from the Gods this bow, the price
+    Of his imperial sacrifice.
+    Won by the rite the glorious prize
+    Still in his royal palace lies--
+    Laid up in oil of precious scent
+    With aloes-wood and incense blent."
+    Then R�ma answering, "Be it so,"
+    Made ready with the rest to go.
+    The saint himself was now prepared,
+    But ere beyond the grove he fared,
+    He turned him and in words like these
+    Addressed the sylvan deities:--
+    "Farewell! each holy rite complete,
+    I leave the hermits' perfect seat:
+    To Gang�'s northern shore I go
+    Beneath Him�laya's peaks of snow."
+    With reverent steps he paced around
+    The limits of the holy ground--
+    And then the mighty saint set forth
+    And took his journey to the north.
+    His pupils, deep in Scripture's page,
+    Followed behind the holy sage,
+    And servants from the sacred grove
+    A hundred wains for convoy drove.
+    The very birds that winged that air,
+    The very deer that harbored there,
+    Forsook the glade and leafy brake
+    And followed for the hermits' sake.
+    They travelled far, till in the west
+    The sun was speeding to his rest,
+    And made, their portioned journey o'er,
+    Their halt on Sona's distant shore.
+    The hermits bathed when sank the sun,
+    And every rite was duly done--
+    Oblations paid to Fire, and then
+    Sate round their chief the holy men.
+    R�ma and Lakshman lowly bowed
+    In reverence to the hermit crowd--
+    And R�ma, having sate him down
+    Before the saint of pure renown,
+    With humble palms together laid
+    His eager supplication made:--
+    "What country, O my lord, is this,
+    Fair-smiling in her wealth and bliss?
+    Deign fully, O thou mighty Seer,
+    To tell me, for I long to hear."
+    Moved by the prayer of R�ma, he
+    Told forth the country's history.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXXIV
+
+BRAHMADATTA
+
+    A king of Brahm�'s seed who bore
+    The name of K�sa reigned of yore.
+    Just, faithful to his vows, and true,
+    He held the good in honor due.
+    His bride, a queen of noble name,
+    Of old Vidarbha's monarchs came.
+    Like their own father, children four,
+    All valiant boys, the lady bore.
+    In glorious deeds each nerve they strained,
+    And well their Warrior part sustained.
+    To them most just, and true, and brave,
+    Their father thus his counsel gave:--
+    "Beloved children, ne'er forget
+    Protection is a prince's debt:
+    The noble work at once begin,
+    High virtue and her fruits to win."
+    The youths, to all the people dear,
+    Received his speech with willing ear;
+    And each went forth his several way,
+    Foundations of a town to lay.
+    Kus�mba, prince of high renown,
+    Was builder of Kaus�mb�'s town,
+    And Kusan�bha, just and wise,
+    Bade high Mahodaya's towers arise.
+    Am�rtarajas chose to dwell
+    In Dharm�ranya's citadel,
+    And Vasu bade his city fair
+    The name of Girivraja bear.
+    This fertile spot whereon we stand
+    Was once the high-souled Vasu's land.
+    Behold! as round we turn our eyes,
+    Five lofty mountain peaks arise.
+    See! bursting from her parent hill,
+    Sum�gadh�, a lovely rill,
+    Bright gleaming as she flows between
+    The mountains, like a wreath is seen--
+    And then through Magadh's plains and groves
+    With many a fair meander roves.
+    And this was Vasu's old domain,
+    The fertile Magadh's broad champaign,
+    Which smiling fields of tilth adorn
+    And diadem with golden corn.
+    The queen Ghrit�ch�, nymph most fair,
+    Married to Kusan�bha, bare
+    A hundred daughters lovely faced,
+    With every charm and beauty graced.
+    It chanced the maidens, bright and gay
+    As lightning-flashes on a day
+    Of rain-time, to the garden went
+    With song and play and merriment--
+    And there in gay attire they strayed,
+    And danced, and laughed, and sang, and played.
+    The God of Wind who roves at will
+    All places, as he lists, to fill,
+    Saw the young maidens dancing there,
+    Of faultless shape and mien most fair--
+    "I love you all, sweet girls," he cried,
+    "And each shall be my darling bride.
+    Forsake, forsake your mortal lot,
+    And gain a life that withers not.
+    A fickle thing is youth's brief span,
+    And more than all is mortal man.
+    Receive unending youth, and be
+    Immortal, O my loves, with me,"
+    The hundred girls, to wonder stirred,
+    The wooing of the Wind-God heard,
+    Laughed, as a jest, his suit aside,
+    And with one voice they thus replied:--
+    "O mighty Wind, free spirit who
+    All life pervadest, through and through--
+    Thy wondrous power we maidens know;
+    Then wherefore wilt thou mock us so?
+    Our sire is Kusan�bha, King;
+    And we, forsooth, have charms to bring
+    A God to woo us from the skies;
+    But honor first we maidens prize.
+    Far may the hour, we pray, be hence,
+    When we, O thou of little sense,
+    Our truthful father's choice refuse,
+    And for ourselves our husbands choose.
+    Our honored sire our lord we deem,
+    He is to us a God supreme--
+    And they to whom his high decree
+    May give us shall our husbands be."
+
+    He heard the answer they returned,
+    And mighty rage within him burned.
+    On each fair maid a blast he sent--
+    Each stately form he bowed and bent.
+    Bent double by the Wind-God's ire
+    They sought the palace of their sire,
+    There fell upon the ground with sighs,
+    While tears and shame were in their eyes.
+    The King himself, with, troubled brow,
+    Saw his dear girls so fair but now,
+    A mournful sight all bent and bowed--
+    And grieving, thus he cried aloud:--
+    "What fate is this, and what the cause?
+    What wretch has scorned all heavenly laws?
+    Who thus your forms could curve and break?
+    You struggle, but no answer make."
+    They heard the speech of that wise king
+    Of their misfortune questioning.
+    Again the hundred maidens sighed,
+    Touched with their heads his feet, and cried:--
+    "The God of Wind, pervading space,
+    Would bring on us a foul disgrace,
+    And choosing folly's evil way
+    From virtue's path in scorn would stray.
+    But we in words like these reproved
+    The God of Wind whom passion moved:--
+    'Farewell, O Lord! A sire have we,
+    No women uncontrolled and free.
+    Go, and our sire's consent obtain
+    If thou our maiden hands wouldst gain.
+    No self-dependent life we live:
+    If we offend, our fault forgive,'
+    But led by folly as a slave,
+    He would not hear the rede we gave,
+    And even as we gently spoke
+    We felt the Wind-God's crushing stroke."
+    The pious King, with grief distressed,
+    The noble hundred thus addressed:--
+    "With patience, daughters, bear your fate,
+    Yours was a deed supremely great
+    When with one mind you kept from shame
+    The honor of your father's name.
+    Patience, when men their anger vent,
+    Is woman's praise and ornament;
+    Yet when the Gods inflict the blow
+    Hard is it to support the woe.
+    Patience, my girls, exceeds all price--
+    'Tis alms, and truth, and sacrifice.
+    Patience is virtue, patience fame:
+    Patience upholds this earthly frame.
+    And now, I think, is come the time
+    To wed you in your maiden prime.
+    Now, daughters, go where'er you will:
+    Thoughts for your good my mind shall fill."
+    The maidens went, consoled, away:--
+    The best of kings, that very day,
+    Summoned his ministers of state
+    About their marriage to debate.
+    Since then, because the Wind-God bent
+    The damsels' forms for punishment,
+    That royal town is known to fame
+    By Kany�kubja's borrowed name.
+
+    There lived a sage called Ch�li then,
+    Devoutest of the sons of men;
+    His days in penance rites he spent,
+    A glorious saint, most continent.
+    To him absorbed in tasks austere
+    The child of Urm�l� draw near--
+    Sweet Somad�, the heavenly maid,
+    And lent the saint her pious aid.
+    Long time near him the maiden spent,
+    And served him meek and reverent,
+    Till the great hermit, pleased with her,
+    Thus spoke unto his minister:--
+    "Grateful am I for all thy care--
+    Blest maiden, speak, thy wish declare."
+    The sweet-voiced nymph rejoiced to see
+    The favor of the devotee,
+    And to that excellent old man,
+    Most eloquent she thus began:--
+    "Thou hast, by heavenly grace sustained,
+    Close union with the Godhead gained.
+    I long, O Saint, to see a son
+    By force of holy penance won.
+    Unwed, a maiden life I live:
+    A son to me, thy suppliant, give."
+    The saint with favor heard her prayer,
+    And gave a son exceeding fair.
+    Him, Ch�li's spiritual child,
+    His mother Brahmadatta styled.
+    King Brahmadatta, rich and great,
+    In K�mpil� maintained his state--
+    Ruling, like Indra in his bliss,
+    His fortunate metropolis.
+    King Kusan�bha planned that he
+    His hundred daughters' lord should be.
+    To him, obedient to his call,
+    The happy monarch gave them all.
+    Like Indra then he took the hand
+    Of every maiden of the band.
+    Soon as the hand of each young maid
+    In Brahmadatta's palm was laid,
+    Deformity and cares away,
+    She shone in beauty bright and gay.
+    Their freedom from the Wind-God's might
+    Saw Kusan�bha with delight.
+    Each glance that on their forms he threw
+    Filled him with raptures ever new.
+    Then when the rites were all complete,
+    With highest marks of honor meet
+    The bridegroom with his brides he sent
+    To his great seat of government.
+    The nymph received with pleasant speech
+    Her daughters; and, embracing each,
+    Upon their forms she fondly gazed,
+    And royal Kusan�bha praised.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXXV
+
+VISV�MITRA'S LINEAGE
+
+    The rites were o'er, the maids were wed,
+    The bridegroom to his home was sped.
+    The sonless monarch bade prepare
+    A sacrifice to gain an heir.
+    Then Kusa, Brahm�'s son, appeared,
+    And thus King Kusan�bha cheered:--
+    'Thou shalt, my child, obtain a son
+    Like thine own self, O holy one.
+    Through him forever, G�dhi named,
+    Shalt thou in all the worlds be famed.'
+    He spoke and vanished from the sight
+    To Brahm�'s world of endless light.
+    Time fled, and, as the saint foretold,
+    G�dhi was born, the holy-souled.
+    My sire was he; through him I trace
+    My line from royal K�sa's race.
+    My sister--elder-born was she--
+    The pure and good Satyavat�,
+    Was to the great Rich�ka wed.
+    Still faithful to her husband dead,
+    She followed him, most noble dame,
+    And, raised to heaven in human frame,
+    A pure celestial stream became.
+    Down from Him�laya's snowy height,
+    In floods forever fair and bright,
+    My sister's holy waves are hurled
+    To purify and glad the world.
+    Now on Him�laya's side I dwell
+    Because I love my sister well.
+    She, for her faith and truth renowned,
+    Most loving to her husband found,
+    High-fated, firm in each pure vow,
+    Is queen of all the rivers now.
+    Bound by a vow I left her side
+    And to the Perfect convent hied.
+    There, by the aid 'twas thine to lend,
+    Made perfect, all my labors end.
+    Thus, mighty Prince, I now have told
+    My race and lineage, high and old,
+    And local tales of long ago
+    Which thou, O R�ma, fain wouldst know.
+    As I have sate rehearsing thus
+    The midnight hour is come on us.
+    Now, R�ma, sleep, that nothing may
+    Our journey of to-morrow stay.
+    No leaf on any tree is stirred--
+    Hushed in repose are beast and bird:
+    Where'er you turn, on every side,
+    Dense shades of night the landscape hide.
+    The light of eve is fled: the skies,
+    Thick-studded with their host of eyes,
+    Seem a star-forest overhead,
+    Where signs and constellations spread.
+    Now rises, with his pure cold ray,
+    The moon that drives the shades away,
+    And with his gentle influence brings
+    Joy to the hearts of living things.
+    Now, stealing from their lairs, appear
+    The beasts to whom the night is dear.
+    Now spirits walk, and every power
+    That revels in the midnight hour."
+
+    The mighty hermit's tale was o'er,
+    He closed his lips and spoke no more.
+    The holy men on every side,
+    "Well done! well done," with reverence cried,
+    "The mighty men of Kusa's seed
+    Were ever famed for righteous deed.
+    Like Brahm�'s self in glory shine
+    The high-souled lords of Kusa's line.
+    And thy great name is sounded most,
+    O Saint, amid the noble host.
+    And thy dear sister--fairest she
+    Of streams, the high-born Kausik�--
+    Diffusing virtue where she flows,
+    New splendor on thy lineage throws."
+    Thus by the chief of saints addressed
+    The son of G�dhi turned to rest;
+    So, when his daily course is done,
+    Sinks to his rest the beaming sun.
+    R�ma, with Lakshman, somewhat stirred
+    To marvel by the tales they heard,
+    Turned also to his couch, to close
+    His eyelids in desired repose.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXXVI
+
+THE BIRTH OF GANG�
+
+    The hours of night now waning fast
+    On Sona's pleasant shore they passed.
+    Then, when the dawn began to break.
+    To R�ma thus the hermit spake:--
+    "The light of dawn is breaking clear,
+    The hour of morning rites is near.
+    Rise, R�ma, rise, dear son, I pray,
+    And make thee ready for the way."
+    Then R�ma rose, and finished all
+    His duties at the hermit's call--
+    Prepared with joy the road to take,
+    And thus again in question spake:--
+    "Here fair and deep the Sona flows,
+    And many an isle its bosom shows:
+    What way, O Saint, will lead us o'er
+    And land us on the farther shore?"
+    The saint replied: "The way I choose
+    Is that which pious hermits use."
+    For many a league they journeyed on
+    Till, when the sun of mid-day shone,
+    The hermit-haunted flood was seen
+    Of J�hnav�, the Rivers' Queen.
+    Soon as the holy stream they viewed,
+    Thronged with a white-winged multitude
+    Of s�rases and swans, delight
+    Possessed them at the lovely sight;
+    And then prepared the hermit band
+    To halt upon that holy strand.
+    They bathed as Scripture bids, and paid
+    Oblations due to God and shade.
+    To Fire they burnt the offerings meet,
+    And sipped the oil, like Amrit sweet.
+    Then pure and pleased they sate around
+    Saint Visv�mitra, on the ground.
+    The holy men of lesser note,
+    In due degree, sate more remote,
+    While Raghu's sons took nearer place
+    By virtue of their rank and race.
+    Then R�ma said: "O Saint, I yearn
+    The three-pathed Gang�'s tale to learn."
+
+    Thus urged, the sage recounted both
+    The birth of Gang� and her growth:--
+    "The mighty hill with metals stored,
+    Him�laya, is the mountains' lord,
+    The father of a lovely pair
+    Of daughters fairest of the fair--
+    Their mother, offspring of the will
+    Of Meru, everlasting hill,
+    Men�, Him�laya's darling, graced
+    With beauty of her dainty waist.
+    Gang� was elder-born:--then came
+    The fair one known by Um�'s name.
+    Then all the Gods of heaven, in need
+    Of Gang�'s help their vows to speed,
+    To great Him�laya came and prayed
+    The Mountain King to yield the maid.
+    He, not regardless of the weal
+    Of the three worlds, with holy zeal
+    His daughter to the Immortals gave,
+    Gang� whose waters cleanse and save--
+    Who roams at pleasure, fair and free,
+    Purging all sinners, to the sea.
+    The three-pathed Gang� thus obtained,
+    The Gods their heavenly homes regained.
+    Long time the sister Um� passed
+    In vows austere and rigid fast,
+    And the King gave the devotee
+    Immortal Rudra's bride to be--
+    Matching with that unequalled Lord
+    His Um� through the worlds adored.
+    So now a glorious station fills
+    Each daughter of the King of Hills--
+    One honored as the noblest stream,
+    One mid the Goddesses supreme.
+    Thus Gang�, King Him�laya's child,
+    The heavenly river, undefiled,
+    Rose bearing with her to the sky
+    Her waves that bless and purify."
+
+
+[_Cantos XXXVII and XXXVIII are omitted._]
+
+
+CANTO XXXIX
+
+THE SONS OF SAGAR
+
+    The saint in accents sweet and clear
+    Thus told his tale for R�ma's ear--
+    And thus anew the holy man
+    A legend to the prince began:--
+    "There reigned a pious monarch o'er
+    Ayodhy� in the days of yore:
+    Sagar his name:--no child had he,
+    And children much he longed to see.
+    His honored consort, fair of face,
+    Sprang from Vidarbha's royal race--
+    Kesin�, famed from early youth
+    For piety and love of truth.
+    Arishtanemi's daughter fair,
+    With whom no maiden might compare
+    In beauty, though the earth is wide,
+    Sumati, was his second bride.
+    With his two queens afar he went,
+    And weary days in penance spent,
+    Fervent, upon Him�laya's hill
+    Where springs the stream called Bhrigu's rill.
+    Nor did he fail that saint to please
+    With his devout austerities,
+    And, when a hundred years had fled,
+    Thus the most truthful Bhrigu said:--
+    'From thee, O Sagar, blameless King,
+    A mighty host of sons shall spring,
+    And thou shalt win a glorious name
+    Which none, O Chief, but thou shall claim.
+    One of thy queens a son shall bear
+    Maintainer of thy race and heir;
+    And of the other there shall be
+    Sons sixty thousand born to thee.'
+    Thus as he spake, with one accord,
+    To win the grace of that high lord,
+    The queens, with palms together laid,
+    In humble supplication prayed:--
+    'Which queen, O Br�hman, of the pair,
+    The many, or the one shall bear?
+    Most eager, Lord, are we to know,
+    And as thou sayest be it so,'
+    With his sweet speech the saint replied:--
+    'Yourselves, O Queens, the choice decide.
+    Your own discretion freely use
+    Which shall the one or many choose:
+    One shall the race and name uphold,
+    The host be famous, strong, and bold.
+    Which will have which?' Then Kesin�
+    The mother of one heir would be.
+    Sumati, sister of the King
+    Of all the birds that ply the wing,
+    To that illustrious Br�hman sued
+    That she might bear the multitude--
+    Whose fame throughout the world should sound
+    For mighty enterprise renowned.
+    Around the saint the monarch went,
+    Bowing his head, most reverent.
+    Then with his wives, with willing feet,
+    Resought his own imperial seat,
+    Time passed. The elder consort bare
+    A son called Asamanj, the heir.
+    Then Sumati, the younger, gave
+    Birth to a gourd, O hero brave,
+    Whose rind, when burst and cleft in two,
+    Gave sixty thousand babes to view.
+    All these with care the nurses laid
+    In jars of oil; and there they stayed,
+    Till, youthful age and strength complete,
+    Forth speeding from each dark retreat--
+    All peers in valor, years, and might,
+    The sixty thousand came to light.
+    Prince Asamanj, brought up with care,
+    Scourge of his foes, was made the heir.
+    But liegemen's boys he used to cast
+    To Sarj�'s waves that hurried past--
+    Laughing the while in cruel glee
+    Their dying agonies to see.
+    This wicked prince who aye withstood
+    The counsel of the wise and good,
+    Who plagued the people in his hate,
+    His father banished from the state.
+    His son, kind-spoken, brave, and tall,
+    Was Ansum�n, beloved of all.
+    Long years flew by. The King decreed
+    To slay a sacrificial steed.
+    Consulting with his priestly band
+    He vowed the rite his soul had planned,
+    And, Veda-skilled, by their advice
+    Made ready for the sacrifice."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XL
+
+THE CLEAVING OF THE EARTH
+
+    The hermit ceased--the tale was done:--
+    Then in a transport Raghu's son
+    Again addressed the ancient sire
+    Resplendent as a burning fire:--
+    "O holy man, I fain would hear
+    The tale repeated full and clear
+    How he from whom my sires descend
+    Brought the great rite to happy end,"
+    The hermit answered with a smile:--
+    "Then listen, son of Raghu, while
+    My legendary tale proceeds
+    To tell of high-souled Sagar's deeds.
+    Within the spacious plain that lies
+    From where Him�laya's heights arise
+    To where proud Vindhya's rival chain
+    Looks down upon the subject plain--
+    A land the best for rites declared--
+    His sacrifice the king prepared.
+    And Ansum�n the prince--for so
+    Sagar advised--with ready bow
+    Was borne upon a mighty car
+    To watch the steed who roamed afar.
+    But Indra, monarch of the skies,
+    Veiling his form in demon guise,
+    Came down upon the appointed day
+    And drove the victim horse away.
+    Reft of the steed the priests, distressed,
+    The master of the rite addressed:--
+    'Upon the sacred day by force
+    A robber takes the victim horse.
+    Haste, King! now let the thief be slain;
+    Bring thou the charger back again:
+    The sacred rite prevented thus
+    Brings scathe and woe to all of us.
+    Rise, Monarch, and provide with speed
+    That nought its happy course impede.'
+
+    King Sagar in his crowded court
+    Gave ear unto the priests' report.
+    He summoned straightway to his side
+    His sixty thousand sons, and cried:--
+    'Brave sons of mine, I know not how
+    These demons are so mighty now--
+    The priests began the rite so well
+    All sanctified with prayer and spell.
+    If in the depths of earth he hide,
+    Or lurk beneath the ocean's tide,
+    Pursue, dear sons, the robber's track;
+    Slay him and bring the charger back.
+    The whole of this broad earth explore,
+    Sea-garlanded, from shore to shore:
+    Yea, dig her up with might and main
+    Until you see the horse again.
+    Deep let your searching labor reach,
+    A league in depth dug out by each.
+    The robber of our horse pursue,
+    And please your sire who orders you.
+    My grandson, I, this priestly train,
+    Till the steed comes, will here remain.'
+
+    Their eager hearts with transport burned
+    As to their task the heroes turned.
+    Obedient to their father, they
+    Through earth's recesses forced their way.
+    With iron arms' unflinching toil
+    Each dug a league beneath the soil.
+    Earth, cleft asunder, groaned in pain,
+    As emulous they plied amain--
+    Sharp-pointed coulter, pick, and bar,
+    Hard as the bolts of Indra are.
+    Then loud the horrid clamor rose
+    Of monsters dying 'neath their blows,
+    Giant and demon, fiend and snake,
+    That in earth's core their dwelling make.
+    They dug, in ire that nought could stay,
+    Through sixty thousand leagues their way--
+    Cleaving the earth with matchless strength
+    Till hell itself they reached at length.
+    Thus digging searched they Jambudv�p
+    With all its hills and mountains steep.
+    Then a great fear began to shake
+    The heart of God, bard, fiend, and snake--
+    And all distressed in spirit went
+    Before the Sire Omnipotent.
+    With signs of woe in every face
+    They sought the mighty Father's grace,
+    And trembling still and ill at ease
+    Addressed their Lord in words like these:--
+    'The sons of Sagar, Sire benign,
+    Pierce the whole earth with mine on mine,
+    And as their ruthless work they ply
+    Innumerable creatures die,'
+    'This is the thief,' the princes say,
+    'Who stole our victim steed away.
+    This marred the rite, and caused us ill.'
+    And so their guiltless blood they spill.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XLI
+
+KAPIL
+
+    "The Father lent a gracious ear
+    And listened to their tale of fear,
+    And kindly to the Gods replied
+    Whom woe and death had terrified:--
+    'The wisest V�sudeva, who
+    The Immortals' foe, fierce Madhu, slew,
+    Regards broad Earth with love and pride,
+    And guards, in Kapil's form, his bride.
+    His kindled wrath will quickly fall
+    On the King's sons and burn them all.
+    This cleaving of the earth his eye
+    Foresaw in ages long gone by:
+    He knew with prescient soul the fate
+    That Sagar's children should await.'
+    The Three-and-thirty, freed from fear,
+    Sought their bright homes with hopeful cheer.
+    Still rose the great tempestuous sound
+    As Sagar's children pierced the ground.
+    When thus the whole broad earth was cleft,
+    And not a spot unsearched was left,
+    Back to their home the princes sped,
+    And thus unto their father said:--
+    'We searched the earth from side to side,
+    While countless hosts of creatures died.
+    Our conquering feet in triumph trod
+    On snake and demon, fiend and God;
+    But yet we failed, with all our toil,
+    To find the robber and the spoil.
+    What can we more? If more we can,
+    Devise, O King, and tell thy plan,'
+    His children's speech King Sagar heard,
+    And answered thus, to anger stirred:--
+    'Dig on, and ne'er your labor stay
+    Till through earth's depths you force your way.
+    Then smite the robber dead, and bring
+    The charger back with triumphing.'
+
+    The sixty thousand chiefs obeyed--
+    Deep through the earth their way they made.
+    Deep as they dug and deeper yet
+    The immortal elephant they met--
+    Famed Vir�p�ksha vast of size,
+    Upon whose head the broad earth lies:
+    The mighty beast who earth sustains
+    With shaggy hills and wooded plains.
+    When, with the changing moon, distressed,
+    And longing for a moment's rest,
+    His mighty head the monster shakes,
+    Earth to the bottom reels and quakes.
+    Around that warder strong and vast
+    With reverential steps they passed--
+    Nor, when the honor due was paid,
+    Their downward search through earth delayed.
+    But turning from the east aside
+    Southward again their task they plied.
+    There Mah�padma held his place,
+    The best of all his mighty race--
+    Like some huge hill, of monstrous girth,
+    Upholding on his head the earth.
+    When the vast beast the princes saw,
+    They marvelled and were filled with awe.
+    The sons of high-souled Sagar round
+    That elephant in reverence wound.
+    Then in the western region they
+    With might unwearied cleft their way.
+    There saw they with astonished eyes
+    Saumanas, beast of mountain size.
+    Round him with circling steps they went
+    With greetings kind and reverent.
+    On, on--no thought of rest or stay--
+    They reached the seat of Soma's sway.
+    There saw they Bhadra, white as snow,
+    With lucky marks that fortune show,
+    Bearing the earth upon his head.
+    Round him they paced with solemn tread,
+    And honored him with greetings kind;
+    Then downward yet their way they mined.
+    They gained the tract 'twixt east and north
+    Whose fame is ever blazoned forth,
+    And by a storm of rage impelled,
+    Digging through earth their course they held.
+    Then all the princes, lofty-souled,
+    Of wondrous vigor, strong and bold,
+    Saw V�sudeva standing there
+    In Kapil's form he loved to wear,
+    And near the everlasting God
+    The victim charger cropped the sod.
+    They saw with joy and eager eyes
+    The fancied robber and the prize,
+    And on him rushed the furious band
+    Crying aloud, 'Stand, villain! stand!'
+    'Avaunt! avaunt!' great Kapil cried,
+    His bosom flushed with passion's tide;
+    Then by his might that proud array
+    All scorched to heaps of ashes lay.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XLII
+
+SAGAR'S SACRIFICE
+
+    Then to the prince his grandson, bright
+    With his own fame's unborrowed light,
+    King Sagar thus began to say,
+    Marvelling at his sons' delay:--
+    'Thou art a warrior skilled and bold,
+    Match for the mighty men of old.
+    Now follow on thine uncles' course
+    And track the robber of the horse.
+    To guard thee take thy sword and bow,
+    For huge and strong are beasts below.
+    There to the reverend reverence pay,
+    And kill the foes who check thy way;
+    Then turn successful home and see
+    My sacrifice complete through thee.'
+
+    Obedient to the high-souled lord
+    Grasped Ansum�n his bow and sword,
+    And hurried forth the way to trace
+    With youth and valor's eager pace.
+    On sped he by the path he found
+    Dug by his uncles underground.
+    The warder elephant he saw
+    Whose size and strength pass Nature's law--
+    Who bears the world's tremendous weight,
+    Whom God, fiend, giant, venerate.
+    Bird, serpent, and each flitting shade,
+    To him the honor meet he paid--
+    With circling steps and greeting due,
+    And further prayed him, if he knew,
+    To tell him of his uncles' weal,
+    And who had dared the horse to steal.
+
+    To him in war and council tried
+    The warder elephant replied:--
+    'Thou, son of Asamanj, shalt lead
+    In triumph back the rescued steed,'
+
+    As to each warder beast he came
+    And questioned all, his words the same,
+    The honored youth with gentle speech
+    Drew eloquent reply from each--
+    That fortune should his steps attend,
+    And with the horse he home should wend.
+    Cheered with the grateful answer, he
+    Passed on with step more light and free,
+    And reached with careless heart the place
+    Where lay in ashes Sagar's race.
+    Then sank the spirit of the chief
+    Beneath that shock of sudden grief--
+    And with a bitter cry of woe
+    He mourned his kinsmen fallen so.
+    He saw, weighed down by woe and care,
+    The victim charger roaming there.
+    Yet would the pious chieftain fain
+    Oblations offer to the slain:
+    But, needing water for the rite,
+    He looked and there was none in sight.
+    His quick eye searching all around
+    The uncle of his kinsmen found--
+    King Garud, best beyond compare
+    Of birds who wing the fields of air.
+    Then thus unto the weeping man
+    The son of Vinat� began:--
+    'Grieve not, O hero, for their fall
+    Who died a death approved of all.
+    Of mighty strength, they met their fate
+    By Kapil's hand whom none can mate.
+    Pour forth for them no earthly wave,
+    A holier flood their spirits crave.
+    If, daughter of the Lord of Snow,
+    Gang� would turn her stream below,
+    Her waves that cleanse all mortal stain
+    Would wash their ashes pure again.
+    Yea, when her flood whom all revere
+    Rolls o'er the dust that moulders here,
+    The sixty thousand, freed from sin,
+    A home in Indra's heaven shall win.
+    Go, and with ceaseless labor try
+    To draw the Goddess from the sky.
+    Return, and with thee take the steed;
+    So shall thy grandsire's rite succeed,'
+
+    Prince Ansum�n the strong and brave
+    Followed the rede Suparna gave.
+    The glorious hero took the horse,
+    And homeward quickly bent his course.
+    Straight to the anxious King he hied,
+    Whom lustral rites had purified--
+    The mournful story to unfold
+    And all the King of birds had told.
+    The tale of woe the monarch heard,
+    No longer was the rite deferred:
+    With care and just observance he
+    Accomplished all, as texts decree.
+    The rites performed, with brighter fame,
+    Mighty in counsel, home he came.
+    He longed to bring the river down,
+    But found no plan his wish to crown.
+    He pondered long with anxious thought,
+    But saw no way to what he sought.
+    Thus thirty thousand years he spent,
+    And then to heaven the monarch went.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XLIII
+
+BHAG�RATH
+
+    "When Sagar thus had bowed to fate,
+    The lords and commons of the state
+    Approved with ready heart and will
+    Prince Ansum�n his throne to fill.
+    He ruled, a mighty king, unblamed,
+    Sire of Dil�pa justly famed.
+    To him, his child and worthy heir,
+    The King resigned his kingdom's care,
+    And on Him�laya's pleasant side
+    His task austere of penance plied.
+    Bright as a God in clear renown
+    He planned to bring pure Gang� down.
+    There on his fruitless hope intent
+    Twice sixteen thousand years he spent,
+    And in the grove of hermits stayed
+    Till bliss in heaven his rites repaid.
+    Dil�pa then, the good and great,
+    Soon as he learnt his kinsmen's fate,
+    Bowed down by woe, with troubled mind.
+    Pondering long no cure could find.
+    'How can I bring,' the mourner sighed,
+    'To cleanse their dust, the heavenly tide?
+    How can I give them rest, and save
+    Their spirits with the offered wave?'
+    Long with this thought his bosom skilled
+    In holy discipline was filled.
+    A son was born, Bhag�rath named,
+    Above all men for virtue famed.
+    Dil�pa many a rite ordained,
+    And thirty thousand seasons reigned.
+    But when no hope the king could see
+    His kinsmen from their woe to free,
+    The lord of men, by sickness tried,
+    Obeyed the law of fate, and died;
+    He left the kingdom to his son,
+    And gained the heaven his deeds had won.
+    The good Bhag�rath, royal sage,
+    Had no fair son to cheer his age.
+    He, great in glory, pure in will,
+    Longing for sons was childless still.
+    Then on one wish, one thought intent,
+    Planning the heavenly stream's descent,
+    Leaving his ministers the care
+    And burden of his state to bear--
+    Dwelling in far Gokarna he
+    Engaged in long austerity.
+    With senses checked, with arms upraised,
+    Five fires around and o'er him blazed.
+    Each weary month the hermit passed
+    Breaking but once his awful fast.
+    In winter's chill the brook his bed,
+    In rain, the clouds to screen his head.
+    Thousands of years he thus endured
+    Till Brahm�'s favor was assured--
+    And the high Lord of living things
+    Looked kindly on his sufferings.
+    With trooping Gods the Sire came near
+    The King who plied his task austere:--
+    'Blest Monarch, of a glorious race,
+    Thy fervent rites have won my grace.
+    Well hast thou wrought thine awful task,
+    Some boon in turn, O Hermit, ask.'
+
+    Bhag�rath, rich in glory's light,
+    The hero with the arm of might,
+    Thus to the Lord of earth and sky
+    Raised suppliant hands and made reply:--
+    'If the great God his favor deigns,
+    And my long toil its fruit obtains,
+    Let Sagar's sons receive from me
+    Libations that they long to see.
+    Let Gang� with her holy wave
+    The ashes of the heroes lave--
+    That so my kinsmen may ascend
+    To heavenly bliss that ne'er shall end.
+    And give, I pray, O God, a son,
+    Nor let my house be all undone.
+    Sire of the worlds! be this the grace
+    Bestowed upon Ikshv�ku's race,'
+    The Sire, when thus the King had prayed,
+    In sweet kind words his answer made:--
+    'High, high thy thought and wishes are,
+    Bhag�rath of the mighty car!
+    Ikshv�ku's line is blest in thee,
+    And as thou prayest it shall be.
+    Gang�, whose waves in Swarga flow,
+    Is daughter of the Lord of Snow.
+    Win Siva that his aid be lent
+    To hold her in her mid-descent--
+    For earth alone will never bear
+    Those torrents hurled from upper air;
+    And none may hold her weight but He,
+    The Trident-wielding deity,'
+    Thus having said, the Lord supreme
+    Addressed him to the heavenly stream;
+    And then with Gods and Maruts went
+    To heaven, above the firmament."
+
+
+
+
+SAKOONTAL�
+
+BY
+
+K�LID�SA
+
+
+
+[_Translation by Sir Monier Monier-Williams_]
+
+
+INTRODUCTION
+
+
+The drama is always the latest development of a national poetry--for the
+origin of poetry is in the religious rite, where the hymn or the ode is
+used to celebrate the glories of some divinity, or some hero who has
+been received into the circle of the gods. This at least is the case in
+Sanscrit as in Greek literature, where the hymn and ballad precede the
+epic. The epic poem becomes the stable form of poetry during the middle
+period in the history of literature, both in India and Greece. The union
+of the lyric and the epic produces the drama. The speeches uttered by
+the heroes in such poems as the "Iliad" are put into the mouths of real
+personages who appear in sight of the audience and represent with
+fitting gestures and costumes the characters of the story. The dialogue
+is interspersed with songs or odes, which reach their perfection in the
+choruses of Sophocles.
+
+The drama is undoubtedly the most intellectual, as it is the most
+artificial, form of poetry. The construction of the plot, and the
+arrangement of the action, give room for the most thoughtful and
+deliberate display of genius. In this respect the Greek drama stands
+forth as most philosophically perfect. The drama, moreover, has always
+been by far the most popular form of poetry; because it aids, as much as
+possible, the imagination of the auditor, and for distinctness and
+clearness of impression stands pre�minent above both the epic narrative
+and the emotional description of the lyric.
+
+The drama in India appears to have been a perfectly indigenous creation,
+although it was of very late development, and could not have appeared
+even so early as the Alexandrian pastorals which marked the last phase
+of Greek poetry. When it did appear, it never took the perfect form of
+the drama at Athens. It certainly borrowed as little from Greece as it
+did from China or Japan, and the Persians and Arabians do not appear to
+have produced any dramatic masterpieces. The greatest of dramatists in
+the Sanscrit language is undoubtedly K�lid�sa, whose date is placed, by
+different scholars, anywhere from the first to the fifth century of our
+era. His masterpiece, and indeed the masterpiece of the Indian drama, is
+the "Sakoontal�," which has all the graces as well as most of the faults
+of Oriental poetry. There can be no doubt that to most Europeans the
+charm of it lies in the exquisite description of natural scenery and of
+that atmosphere of piety and religious calm--almost mediaeval in its
+austere beauty and serenity--which invests the hermit life of India. The
+abode of the ascetics is depicted with a pathetic grace that we only
+find paralleled in the "Admetus" of Euripides. But at the same time the
+construction of the drama is more like such a play as Milton's "Comus,"
+than the closely-knit, symmetrical, and inevitable progress of such a
+work of consummate skill as the "King Oedipus" of Sophocles. Emotion,
+and generally the emotion of love, is the motive in the "Sakoontal�" of
+K�lid�sa, and different phases of feeling, rather than the struggles of
+energetic action, lead on to the _d�nouement_ of the play. The
+introduction of supernatural agencies controlling the life of the
+personages, leaves very little room for the development and description
+of human character. As the fate of the hero is dependent altogether upon
+the caprice of superhuman powers, the moral elements of a drama are but
+faintly discernible. Thus the central action of Sakoontal� hinges on the
+fact that the heroine, absorbed in thoughts of love, neglects to welcome
+with due respect the great saint Durvasas--certainly a trifling and
+venial fault--but he is represented as blighting her with a curse which
+results in all the unhappiness of the drama, and which is only ended at
+last by the intervention of a more powerful being. By this principle of
+construction the characters are reduced to mere shadow creations:
+beautiful as arabesques, delicate as a piece of ivory carving, tinted
+like the flat profiles of an Oriental fan or the pattern of a porcelain
+vase, but deficient in robustness and vigorous coloring. Humanity is
+absolutely dwarfed and its powers rendered inoperative by the crowd of
+supernatural creatures that control its destiny. Even in the "Tempest"
+of Shakespeare, in which the supernatural plays a greater part than in
+any other English drama, the strength and nobility of human character
+are allowed full play--and man in his fortitude, in his intellect and
+will, even more than in his emotions, keeps full possession of the
+stage, and imparts a reality to every scene which makes the wildest
+flight of fancy bear a real relation to the common experiences of human
+life.
+
+The "Sakoontal�" is divided into seven acts, and is a mixture of prose
+and verse;--each character rising in the intensity of emotional
+utterance into bursts of lyric poetry. The first act introduces the King
+of India, Dushyanta, armed with bow and arrows, in a chariot with his
+driver. They are passing through a forest in pursuit of a black
+antelope, which they fail to overtake before the voice of some hermit
+forbids them to slay the creature as it belongs to the hermitage. The
+king piously desists and reaches the hermitage of the great saint Kanwa,
+who has left his companions in charge of his foster-daughter,
+Sakoontal�, while he is bound on a pilgrimage. Following these hermits
+the king finds himself within the precincts of a sacred grove, where
+rice is strewn on the ground to feed the parrots that nest in the hollow
+trunks, and where the unterrified antelopes do not start at the human
+voice. The king stops his chariot and alights, so as not to disturb the
+dwellers in the holy wood. He feels a sudden throb in his right arm,
+which augurs happy love, and sees hermit maidens approaching to sprinkle
+the young shrubs, with watering-pots suited to their strength. The forms
+of these hermit maidens eclipse those found in queenly halls, as the
+luxuriance of forest vines excels the trim vineyards of cultivation.
+Amongst these maidens the king, concealed by the trees, observes
+Sakoontal�, dressed in the bark garment of a hermit--like a blooming bud
+enclosed within a sheath of yellow leaves. When she stands by the
+_kesara_-tree, the king is impressed by her beauty, and regrets that she
+is, if of a purely Br�hmanic origin, forbidden to marry one of the
+warrior class, even though he be a king. A very pretty description is
+given of the pursuit of Sakoontal� by a bee which her sprinkling has
+startled from a jasmine flower. From this bee she is rescued by the
+king, and is dismayed to find that the sight of the stranger affects her
+with an emotion unsuited to the holy grove. She hurries off with her two
+companions, but as she goes she declares that a prickly _kusa_-grass has
+stung her foot; a _kuruvaka_-bush has caught her garment, and while her
+companions disentangle it, she takes a long look at the king, who
+confesses that he cannot turn his mind from Sakoontal�. This is the
+opening episode of their love.
+
+The second act introduces the king's jester, a Br�hman on confidential
+terms with his master, who, while Dushyanta is thinking of love, is
+longing to get back to the city. He is tired of the hot jungle, the
+nauseating water of bitter mountain streams, the racket of fowlers at
+early dawn, and the eternal galloping, by which his joints are bruised.
+The king is equally tired of hunting, and confesses that he cannot bend
+his bow against those fawns which dwell near Sakoontal�'s abode, and
+have taught their tender glance to her. He calls back the beaters sent
+out to surround the forest, takes off his hunting-suit, and talks to the
+jester about the charms of Sakoontal�--whom the Creator, he says, has
+formed by gathering in his mind all lovely shapes, so as to make a
+peerless woman-gem. He recalls the glance which she shot at him as she
+cried, "a _kusha-grass_ has stung my foot." Meanwhile two hermits
+approach him with the news that the demons have taken advantage of
+Kanwa's absence to disturb the sacrifices. They request him to take up
+his abode in the grove for a few days, in order to vanquish the enemies.
+A messenger arrives to tell him that his mother, in four days, will be
+offering a solemn sacrifice for her son's welfare, and invites his
+presence at the rite. But he cannot leave Sakoontal�, and sends the
+jester M�thavya in his stead, telling him to say nothing about his love
+for Sakoontal�.
+
+In the third act the love of the king and the hermit girl reaches its
+climax. The king is found walking in the hermitage, invoking the God of
+Love, whose shafts are flowers, though the flowery darts are hard as
+steel. "Mighty God of Love, hast Thou no pity on me?" What better
+relief, he asks, than the sight of my beloved? He traces Sakoontal�, by
+the broken tubes which bore the blossoms she had culled, to the arbor,
+enclosed by the plantation of canes, and shaded by vines, at whose
+entrance he observes in the sand the track of recent footsteps. Peering
+through the branches, he perceives her reclining on a stone seat strewn
+with flowers. Her two companions are with her, and she is sick unto
+death. The king notices that her cheeks are wasted, her breasts less
+swelling, her slender waist more slender, her roseate hue has grown
+pale, and she seems like some poor _madhave_ creeper touched by winds
+that have scorched its leaves. Her companions anxiously inquire the
+cause of her sickness, and, after much hesitation, she reveals her love
+by inscribing a poem, with her fingernail, on a lotus leaf smooth as a
+parrot's breast. The king hears the avowal of her love, rushes in to
+her, and declares his passion: adding that daughters of a royal saint
+have often been wedded by _Gandharva_ rites, without ceremonies or
+parental consent, yet have not forfeited the father's blessing. He thus
+overcomes her scruples. Gautam�, the matron of the hermitage, afterwards
+enters, and asks, "My child, is your fever allayed?" "Venerable mother,"
+is the reply, "I feel a grateful change." As the king sits in solitude
+that evening in the deserted arbor, he hears a voice outside, uttering
+the verses--"The evening rites have begun; but, dark as the clouds of
+night, the demons are swarming round the altar fires." With these words
+of ill-omen the third act comes to an end.
+
+The fourth act describes the fulfilment of this evil omen. The king has
+now returned to the city, and has given Sakoontal� a signet ring, with
+an inscription on it, pronouncing that after there have elapsed as many
+days as there are letters in this inscription he will return. As the two
+maiden companions of Sakoontal� are culling flowers in the garden of the
+hermitage, they hear a voice exclaiming, "It is I! give heed!" This is
+the great Durvasas, whom Sakoontal�, lost in thoughts of her absent
+husband, has neglected at once to go forth to welcome. The voice from
+behind the scenes is soon after heard uttering a curse--"Woe unto her
+who is thus neglectful of a guest," and declaring that Dushyanta, of
+whom alone she is thinking, regardless of the presence of a pious saint,
+shall forget her in spite of all his love, as the wine-bibber forgets
+his delirium. The Hindoo saint is here described in all his arrogance
+and cruelty. One of the maidens says that he who had uttered the curse
+is now retiring with great strides, quivering with rage--for his wrath
+is like a consuming fire. A pretty picture is given of Sakoontal�, who
+carries on her finger the signet ring, which has the virtue of restoring
+the king's love, if ever he should forget her. "There sits our beloved
+friend," cries one of the maidens: "motionless as a picture; her cheek
+supported by her left hand, so absorbed in thoughts of her absent lover
+that she is unconscious of her own self--how much more of a passing
+stranger?"
+
+In the fourth act there is an exquisite description of the return of
+Kanwa from his pilgrimage, and the preparations for the start of
+Sakoontal� for her husband's palace, in the city. The delicate pathos of
+the scene is worthy of Euripides. "Alas! Alas!" exclaim the two maidens,
+"Now Sakoontal� has disappeared behind the trees of the forest. Tell us,
+master, how shall we enter again the sacred grove made desolate by her
+departure?" But the holy calm, broken for a moment by the excitement of
+his child's departure, is soon restored to Kanwa's mind. "Now that my
+child is dismissed to her husband's home, tranquillity regains my soul."
+The closing reflection is worthy of a Greek dramatist: "Our maids we
+rear for the happiness of others; and now that I have sent her to her
+husband I feel the satisfaction that comes from restoring a trust."
+
+In the fifth act, the scene is laid in Dushyanta's palace, where the
+king is living, under the curse of Durvasas, in complete oblivion of
+Sakoontal�. The life of the court is happily suggested, with its
+intrigues and its business. The king has yet a vague impression of
+restlessness, which, on hearing a song sung behind the scenes, prompts
+him to say, "Why has this strain flung over me so deep a melancholy, as
+though I was separated from some loved one; can this be the faint
+remembrance of affections in some previous existence?" It is here that
+the hermits, with Gautam�, arrive, bringing Sakoontal�, soon to be made
+a mother, into the presence of the king; but she has been utterly
+forgotten by him. He angrily denies his marriage; and when she proposes
+to bring forth the ring, she finds she has lost it from her finger. "It
+must have slipped off," suggested Gautam�, "when thou wast offering
+homage to Sach�'s holy lake." The king smiles derisively. Sakoontal�
+tries to quicken his memory:--"Do you remember how, in the jasmine
+bower, you poured water from the lotus cup into the hollow of my hand?
+Do you remember how you said to my little fawn, Drink first, but she
+shrunk from you--and drank water from my hand, and you said, with a
+smile, 'Like trusts Like,' for you are two sisters in the same grove."
+The king calls her words "honeyed falsehoods." Sakoontal� buries her
+face in her mantle and bursts into tears.
+
+The tenderness of this scene, its grace and delicacy, are quite idyllic,
+and worthy of the best ages of the pastoral drama. The ring is at
+length restored to Dushyanta, having been found by a fisherman in the
+belly of a carp. On its being restored to the king's finger, he is
+overcome with a flood of recollection: he gives himself over to mourning
+and forbids the celebration of the Spring festival. He admits that his
+palsied heart had been slumbering, and that, now it is roused by
+memories of his fawn-eyed love, he only wakes to agonies of remorse.
+Meanwhile Sakoontal� had been carried away like a celestial nymph to the
+sacred grove of Kasyapa, far removed from earth in the upper air. The
+king, being summoned by Indra to destroy the brood of giants,
+descendants of Kalamemi, the monster of a hundred arms and heads,
+reaches in the celestial car Indra, the grove where dwell his wife and
+child, an heroic boy whom the hermits call Sarva-damana--the all-tamer.
+The recognition and reconciliation of husband and wife are delineated
+with the most delicate skill, and the play concludes with a prayer to
+Shiva.
+
+E.W.
+
+DRAMATIS PERSON�
+
+DUSHYANTA, King of India.
+
+M�THAVYA, the Jester, friend and companion of the King.
+
+KANWA, chief of the Hermits, foster-father of Sakoontal�.
+
+S�RNGARAVA, S�RADWATA, two Br�hmans, belonging to the hermitage of
+Kanwa.
+
+MITR�VASU, brother-in-law of the King, and Superintendent of the city
+police.
+
+J�NUKA, S�CHAKA, two constables.
+
+V�T�YANA, the Chamberlain or attendant on the women's apartments.
+
+SOMAR�TA, the domestic Priest.
+
+KARABHAKA, a messenger of the Queen-mother.
+
+RAIVATAKA, the warder or door-keeper.
+
+M�TALI, charioteer of Indra.
+
+SARVA-DAMANA, afterwards Bharata, a little boy, son of Dushyanta by
+Sakoontal�.
+
+KASYAPA, a divine sage, progenitor of men and gods, son of Mar�chi and
+grandson of Brahm�.
+
+SAKOONTAL�, daughter of the sage Visw�mitra and the nymph Menak�,
+foster-child of the hermit Kanwa.
+
+PRIYAMVAD� and ANAS�Y�, female attendants, companions of Sakoontal�.
+
+GAUTAM�, a holy matron, Superior of the female inhabitants of the
+hermitage.
+
+VASUMAT�, the Queen of Dushyanta.
+
+S�NUMAT�, a nymph, friend of Sakoontal�.
+
+TARALIK�, personal attendant of the King.
+
+CHATURIK�, personal attendant of the Queen.
+
+VETRAVAT�, female warder, or door-keeper.
+
+PARABARITIK� and MADHUKARIK�, maidens in charge of the royal gardens.
+
+SUVRAT�, a nurse.
+
+ADITI, wife of Kasyapa; grand-daughter of Brahm�, through her father,
+Daksha.
+
+Charioteer, Fisherman, Officers, and Hermits.
+
+
+RULES FOR PRONUNCIATION OF PROPER NAMES
+
+Observe, that in order to secure the correct pronunciation of the title
+of this Drama, "Sakuntal�" has been spelt "Sa-koontal�," the _u_ being
+pronounced like the _u_ in the English word _rule_.
+
+The vowel _a_ must invariably be pronounced with a dull sound, like the
+_a_ in _organ_, or the _u_ in _fun, sun. Dushyanta_ must therefore be
+pronounced as if written _Dooshyunta_. The long vowel _a_ is pronounced
+like the _a_ in _last, cart; i_ like the _i_ in _pin, sin_; _�_ like the
+_i_ in _marine; e_ like the _e_ in _prey; o_ like the _o_ in _so; ai_
+like the _ai_ in _aisle; au_ like _au_ in the German word _baum_, or
+like the _ou_ in _our_.
+
+The consonants are generally pronounced as in English, but _g_ has
+always the sound of _g_ in _gun, give_, never of _g_ in _gin. S_ with
+the accent over it (s) has the sound of _s_ in _sure_, or of the last
+_s_ in _session_.
+
+
+
+SAKOONTAL�
+
+PROLOGUE
+
+Benediction
+
+    Isa preserve you! he who is revealed
+    In these eight forms by man perceptible--
+    Water, of all creation's works the first;
+    The fire that bears on high the sacrifice
+    Presented with solemnity to heaven;
+    The Priest, the holy offerer of gifts;
+    The Sun and Moon, those two majestic orbs,
+    Eternal marshallers of day and night;
+    The subtle Ether, vehicle of sound,
+    Diffused throughout the boundless universe;
+    The Earth, by sages called "The place of birth
+    Of all material essences and things";
+    And Air, which giveth life to all that breathe.
+
+STAGE-MANAGER [_after the recitation of the benediction, looking towards
+the tiring-room._]--Lady, when you have finished attiring yourself, come
+this way.
+
+ACTRESS [_entering._]--Here I am, Sir; what are your commands?
+
+STAGE-MANAGER.--We are here before the eyes of an audience of educated
+and discerning men; and have to represent in their presence a new drama
+composed by K�lid�sa, called "Sakoontal�, or the Lost Ring." Let the
+whole company exert themselves to do justice to their several parts.
+
+ACTRESS,--You, Sir, have so judiciously managed the cast of the
+characters, that nothing will be defective in the acting.
+
+STAGE-MANAGER.--Lady, I will tell you the exact state of the case.
+    No skill in acting can I deem complete,
+    Till from the wise the actor gain applause:
+    Know that the heart e'en of the truly skilful,
+    Shrinks from too boastful confidence in self.
+
+ACTRESS [_modestly_].--You judge correctly. And now, what are your
+commands?
+
+STAGE-MANAGER.--What can you do better than engage the attention of the
+audience by some captivating melody?
+
+ACTRESS.--Which among the seasons shall I select as the subject of my
+song?
+
+STAGE-MANAGER.--You surely ought to give the preference to the present
+Summer season that has but recently commenced, a season so rich in
+enjoyment. For now
+    Unceasing are the charms of halcyon days,
+    When the cool bath exhilarates the frame;
+    When sylvan gales are laden with the scent
+    Of fragrant P�talas; when soothing sleep
+    Creeps softly on beneath the deepening shade;
+    And when, at last, the dulcet calm of eve
+    Entrancing steals o'er every yielding sense.
+
+ACTRESS.--I will. [_Sings._
+    Fond maids, the chosen of their hearts to please,
+      Entwine their ears with sweet Sir�sha flowers,
+    Whose fragrant lips attract the kiss of bees
+      That softly murmur through the summer hours.
+
+STAGE-MANAGER.--Charmingly sung! The audience are motionless as statues,
+their souls riveted by the enchanting strain. What subject shall we
+select for representation, that we may insure a continuance of their
+favor?
+
+ACTRESS.--Why not the same, Sir, announced by you at first? Let the
+drama called "Sakoontal�, or the Lost Ring," be the subject of our
+dramatic performance.
+
+STAGE-MANAGER.--Rightly reminded! For the moment I had forgotten it.
+    Your song's transporting melody decoyed
+    My thoughts, and rapt with ecstasy my soul;
+    As now the bounding antelope allures
+    The King Dushyanta on the chase intent. [_Exeunt._
+
+
+
+
+ACT FIRST
+
+Scene.--A Forest
+
+
+_Enter King Dushyanta, armed with a bow and arrow, in a chariot, chasing
+an antelope, attended by his Charioteer_.
+
+CHARIOTEER [_looking at the deer, and then at the King_].--
+Great Prince,
+    When on the antelope I bend my gaze,
+    And on your Majesty, whose mighty bow
+    Has its string firmly braced; before my eyes
+    The god that wields the trident seems revealed,
+    Chasing the deer that flies from him in vain.
+
+KING.--Charioteer, this fleet antelope has drawn us far from my
+attendants. See! there he runs:--
+    Aye and anon his graceful neck he bends
+    To cast a glance at the pursuing car;
+    And dreading now the swift-descending shaft,
+    Contracts into itself his slender frame:
+    About his path, in scattered fragments strewn,
+    The half-chewed grass falls from his panting mouth;
+    See! in his airy bounds he seems to fly,
+    And leaves no trace upon th'elastic turf.
+          [_With astonishment_.
+How now! swift as is our pursuit, I scarce can see him.
+
+CHARIOTEER.--Sire, the ground here is full of hollows; I have therefore
+drawn in the reins and checked the speed of the chariot. Hence the deer
+has somewhat gained upon us. Now that we are passing over level ground,
+we shall have no difficulty in overtaking him.
+
+KING.--Loosen the reins, then.
+
+CHARIOTEER.--The King is obeyed. [_Drives the chariot at full speed_.]
+Great Prince, see! see!
+    Responsive to the slackened rein, the steeds
+    Chafing with eager rivalry, career
+    With emulative fleetness o'er the plain;
+    Their necks outstretched, their waving plumes, that late
+    Fluttered above their brows, are motionless;
+    Their sprightly ears, but now erect, bent low;
+    Themselves unsullied by the circling dust,
+    That vainly follows on their rapid course.
+
+KING [_joyously_].--In good sooth, the horses seem as if they would
+outstrip the steeds of Indra and the Sun.[33]
+    That which but now showed to my view minute
+    Quickly assumes dimension; that which seemed
+    A moment since disjoined in diverse parts,
+    Looks suddenly like one compacted whole;
+    That which is really crooked in its shape
+    In the far distance left, grows regular;
+    Wondrous the chariot's speed, that in a breath,
+    Makes the near distant and the distant near.
+
+Now, Charioteer, see me kill the deer. [_Takes aim_.
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--Hold, O King! this deer belongs to our
+hermitage. Kill it not! kill it not!
+
+CHARIOTEER [_listening and looking_].--Great King, some hermits have
+stationed themselves so as to screen the antelope at the very moment of
+its coming within range of your arrow.
+
+KING [_hastily_].--Then stop the horses.
+
+CHARIOTEER.--I obey. [_Stops the chariot_.
+
+_Enter a Hermit, and two others with him_.
+
+HERMIT [_raising his hand_].--This deer, O King, belongs to our
+hermitage. Kill it not! kill it not!
+    Now heaven forbid this barb�d shaft descend
+    Upon the fragile body of a fawn,
+    Like fire upon a heap of tender flowers!
+    Can thy steel bolts no meeter quarry find
+    Than the warm life-blood of a harmless deer?
+    Restore, great Prince, thy weapon to its quiver;
+    More it becomes thy arms to shield the weak,
+    Than to bring anguish on the innocent.
+
+KING.--'Tis done. [_Replaces the arrow in its quiver_.
+
+HERMIT.--Worthy is this action of a Prince, the light of Puru's race.
+    Well does this act befit a Prince like thee,
+    Right worthy is it of thine ancestry.
+    Thy guerdon be a son of peerless worth,
+    Whose wide dominion shall embrace the earth.
+
+BOTH THE OTHER HERMITS [_raising their hands_].--May heaven indeed grant
+thee a son, a sovereign of the earth from sea to sea!
+
+KING [_bowing._]--I accept with gratitude a Br�hman's benediction.
+
+HERMIT.--We came hither, mighty Prince, to collect sacrificial wood.
+Here on the banks of the M�lin� you may perceive the hermitage of the
+great sage Kanwa. If other duties require not your presence, deign to
+enter and accept our hospitality.
+    When you behold our penitential rites
+    Performed without impediment by Saints
+    Rich only in devotion, then with pride
+    Will you reflect, Such are the holy men
+    Who call me Guardian; such the men for whom
+    To wield the bow I bare my nervous arm,
+    Scarred by the motion of the glancing string.
+
+KING.--Is the Chief of your Society now at home?
+
+HERMIT.--No; he has gone to Soma-t�rtha to propitiate Destiny, which
+threatens his daughter Sakoontal� with some calamity; but he has
+commissioned her in his absence to entertain all guests with
+hospitality.
+
+KING.--Good! I will pay her a visit. She will make me acquainted with
+the mighty sage's acts of penance and devotion.
+
+HERMIT.--And we will depart on our errand.
+          [_Exit with his companions_.
+
+KING.--Charioteer, urge on the horses. We will at least purify our souls
+by a sight of this hallowed retreat.
+
+CHARIOTEER.--Your Majesty is obeyed.
+          [_Drives the chariot with great velocity_.
+
+KING [_looking all about him_].--Charioteer, even without being told, I
+should have known that these were the precincts of a grove consecrated
+to penitential rites.
+
+CHARIOTEER.--How so?
+
+KING.--Do not you observe?
+    Beneath the trees, whose hollow trunks afford
+    Secure retreat to many a nestling brood
+    Of parrots, scattered grains of rice lie strewn.
+    Lo! here and there are seen the polished slabs
+    That serve to bruise the fruit of Ingud�.
+    The gentle roe-deer, taught to trust in man,
+    Unstartled hear our voices. On the paths
+    Appear the traces of bark-woven vests
+    Borne dripping from the limpid fount of waters.
+    And mark! Laved are the roots of trees by deep canals,
+    Whose glassy waters tremble in the breeze;
+    The sprouting verdure of the leaves is dimmed
+    By dusky wreaths of upward curling smoke
+    From burnt oblations; and on new-mown lawns
+    Around our car graze leisurely the fawns.
+
+CHARIOTEER.--I observe it all.
+
+KING [_advancing a little further_].--The inhabitants of this sacred
+retreat must not be disturbed. Stay the chariot, that I may alight.
+
+CHARIOTEER.--The reins are held in. Your Majesty may descend.
+
+KING [_alighting_].--Charioteer, groves devoted to penance must be
+entered in humble attire. Take these ornaments.
+[_Delivers his ornaments and bow to the Charioteer_.]
+Charioteer, see that the horses are watered, and attend to them until I
+return from visiting the inhabitants of the hermitage.
+
+CHARIOTEER.--I will.          [_Exit_.
+
+KING [_walking and looking about_].--Here is the entrance to the
+hermitage. I will now go in.
+          [_Entering he feels a throbbing sensation in his arm_
+    Serenest peace is in this calm retreat,
+    By passion's breath unruffled; what portends
+    My throbbing arm? Why should it whisper here
+    Of happy love? Yet everywhere around us
+    Stand the closed portals of events unknown.
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--This way, my dear companions; this way.
+
+KING [_listening_].--Hark! I hear voices to the right of yonder grove of
+trees. I will walk in that direction. [_Walking and looking about_.] Ah!
+here are the maidens of the hermitage coming this way to water the
+shrubs, carrying watering-pots proportioned to their strength. [_Gazing
+at them_.] How graceful they look!
+    In palaces such charms are rarely ours;
+    The woodland plants outshine the garden flowers.
+I will conceal myself in this shade and watch them.
+          [_Stands gazing at them_.
+
+_Enter Sakoontal�, with her two female companions, employed in the
+manner described_.
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--This way, my dear companions; this way.
+
+ANAS�Y�.--Dear Sakoontal�, one would think that father Kanwa had more
+affection for the shrubs of the hermitage even than for you, seeing he
+assigns to you who are yourself as delicate as the fresh-blown jasmine,
+the task of filling with water the trenches which encircle their roots.
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--Dear Anas�y�, although I am charged by my good father with
+this duty, yet I cannot regard it as a task. I really feel a sisterly
+love for these plants.
+          [_Continues watering the shrubs_.
+
+KING.--Can this be the daughter of Kanwa? The saintly man, though
+descended from the great Kasyapa, must be very deficient in judgment to
+habituate such a maiden to the life of a recluse.
+    The sage who would this form of artless grace
+    Inure to penance--thoughtlessly attempts
+    To cleave in twain the hard acacia's stem
+    With the soft edge of a blue lotus leaf.
+Well! concealed behind this tree, I will watch her without raising her
+suspicions.          [_Conceals himself_.
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--Good Anas�y�, Priyamvad� has drawn this bark-dress too
+tightly about my chest. I pray thee, loosen it a little.
+
+ANAS�Y�.--I will.          [_Loosens it_.
+
+PRIYAMVAD� [_smiling_].--Why do you lay the blame on me? Blame rather
+your own blooming youthfulness which imparts fulness to your bosom.
+
+KING.--A most just observation!
+    This youthful form, whose bosom's swelling charms
+    By the bark's knotted tissue are concealed,
+    Like some fair bud close folded in its sheath,
+    Gives not to view the blooming of its beauty.
+But what am I saying? In real truth, this bark-dress, though ill-suited
+to her figure, sets it off like an ornament.
+    The lotus with the Saivala entwined
+    Is not a whit less brilliant: dusky spots
+    Heighten the lustre of the cold-rayed moon:
+    This lovely maiden in her dress of bark
+    Seems all the lovelier. E'en the meanest garb
+    Gives to true beauty fresh attractiveness.
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_looking before her_].--Yon Kesara-tree beckons to me with
+its young shoots, which, as the breeze waves them to and fro, appear
+like slender fingers. I will go and attend to it. [_Walks towards it_.
+
+PRIYAMVAD�.--Dear Sakoontal�, prithee, rest in that attitude one moment.
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--Why so?
+
+PRIYAMVAD�.--The Kesara-tree, whilst your graceful form bends about its
+stem, appears as if it were wedded to some lovely twining creeper.
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--Ah! saucy girl, you are most appropriately named Priyamvad�
+("Speaker of flattering things").
+
+KING.--What Priyamvad� says, though complimentary, is nevertheless true.
+Verily,
+    Her ruddy lip vies with the opening bud;
+    Her graceful arms are as the twining stalks;
+    And her whole form is radiant with the glow
+    Of youthful beauty, as the tree with bloom.
+
+ANAS�Y�.--See, dear Sakoontal�, here is the young jasmine, which you
+named "the Moonlight of the Grove," the self-elected wife of the
+mango-tree. Have you forgotten it?
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--Rather will I forget myself. [_Approaching the plant and
+looking at it_.] How delightful is the season when the jasmine-creeper
+and the mango-tree seem thus to unite in mutual embraces! The fresh
+blossoms of the jasmine resemble the bloom of a young bride, and the
+newly-formed shoots of the mango appear to make it her natural
+protector.          [_Continues gazing at it_.
+
+PRIYAMVAD� [_smiling_].--Do you know, my Anas�y�, why Sakoontal� gazes
+so intently at the jasmine?
+
+ANAS�Y�.--No, indeed, I cannot imagine. I pray thee tell me.
+
+PRIYAMVAD�.--She is wishing that as the jasmine is united to a suitable
+tree, so, in like manner, she may obtain a husband worthy of her.
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--Speak for yourself, girl; this is the thought in your own
+mind.          [_Continues watering the flowers_.
+
+KING.--Would that my union with her were permissible! and yet I hardly
+dare hope that the maiden is sprung from a caste different from that of
+the Head of the hermitage. But away with doubt:--
+    That she is free to wed a warrior-king
+    My heart attests. For, in conflicting doubts,
+    The secret promptings of the good man's soul
+    Are an unerring index of the truth.
+
+However, come what may, I will ascertain the fact.
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_in a flurry_].--Ah! a bee, disturbed by the sprinkling of
+the water, has left the young jasmine, and is trying to settle on my
+face.          [_Attempts to drive it away_.
+
+KING [_gazing at her ardently_].--Beautiful! there is something charming
+even in her repulse.
+    Where'er the bee his eager onset plies,
+    Now here, now there, she darts her kindling eyes:
+    What love hath yet to teach, fear teaches now,
+    The furtive glances and the frowning brow.
+                                [_In a tone of envy_.
+    Ah happy bee! how boldly dost thou try
+    To steal the lustre from her sparkling eye;
+    And in thy circling movements hover near,
+    To murmur tender secrets in her ear;
+    Or, as she coyly waves her hand, to sip
+    Voluptuous nectar from her lower lip!
+    While rising doubts my heart's fond hopes destroy,
+    Thou dost the fulness of her charms enjoy.
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--This impertinent bee will not rest quiet. I must move
+elsewhere. [_Moving a few steps off, and casting a glance around_.] How
+now! he is following me here. Help! my dear friends, help! deliver me
+from the attacks of this troublesome insect.
+
+PRIYAMVAD� AND ANAS�Y�.--How can we deliver you? Call Dushyanta to your
+aid. The sacred groves are under the king's special protection.
+
+KING.--An excellent opportunity for me to show myself. Fear
+not--[_Checks himself when the words are half-uttered._ _Aside_.] But
+stay, if I introduce myself in this manner, they will know me to be the
+King. Be it so, I will accost them, nevertheless.
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_moving a step or two further off_].--What! it still
+persists in following me.
+
+KING [_advancing hastily_].--When mighty Puru's offspring sways the
+earth,
+    And o'er the wayward holds his threatening rod,
+    Who dares molest the gentle maids that keep
+    Their holy vigils here in Kanwa's grove?
+
+          [_All look at the King, and are embarrassed_.
+
+ANAS�Y�.--Kind Sir, no outrage has been committed; only our dear friend
+here was teased by the attacks of a troublesome bee.
+          [_Points to Sakoontal�_.
+
+KING [_turning to Sakoontal�_].--I trust all is well with your
+devotional rites?
+
+          [_Sakoontal� stands confused and silent_.
+
+ANAS�Y�.--All is well, indeed, now that we are honored by the reception
+of a distinguished guest. Dear Sakoontal�, go, bring from the hermitage
+an offering of flowers, rice, and fruit. This water that we have brought
+with us will serve to bathe our guest's feet.
+
+KING.--The rites of hospitality are already performed; your truly kind
+words are the best offering I can receive.
+
+PRIYAMVAD�.--At least be good enough, gentle Sir, to sit down awhile,
+and rest yourself on this seat shaded by the leaves of the Sapta-parna
+tree.
+
+KING.--You, too, must all be fatigued by your employment.
+
+ANAS�Y�.--Dear Sakoontal�, there is no impropriety in our sitting by the
+side of our guest: come, let us sit down here.
+
+          [_All sit down together_.
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_aside_].--How is it that the sight of this man has made me
+sensible of emotions inconsistent with religious vows?
+
+KING [_gazing at them all by turns_].--How charmingly your friendship is
+in keeping with the equality of your ages and appearance!
+
+PRIYAMVAD� [_aside to Anas�y�_].--Who can this person be, whose lively
+yet dignified manner, and polite conversation, bespeak him a man of high
+rank?
+
+ANAS�Y�.--I, too, my dear, am very curious to know. I will ask him
+myself. [_Aloud_]. Your kind words, noble Sir, fill me with confidence,
+and prompt me to inquire of what regal family our noble guest is the
+ornament? what country is now mourning his absence? and what induced a
+person so delicately nurtured to expose himself to the fatigue of
+visiting this grove of penance?
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_aside_].--Be not troubled, O my heart, Anas�y� is giving
+utterance to thy thoughts.
+
+KING [_aside_].--How now shall I reply? shall I make myself known, or
+shall I still disguise my real rank? I have it; I will answer her thus.
+[_Aloud_]. I am the person charged by his majesty, the descendant of
+Puru, with the administration of justice and religion; and am come to
+this sacred grove to satisfy myself that the rites of the hermits are
+free from obstruction.
+
+ANAS�Y�.--The hermits, then, and all the members of our religious
+society have now a guardian.
+
+          [_Sakoontal� gazes bashfully at the King_.
+
+PRIYAMVAD� AND ANAS�Y� [_perceiving the state of her feelings, and of
+the King's. Aside to Sakoontal�_].--Dear Sakoontal�, if father Kanwa
+were but at home to-day------
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_angrily_].--What if he were?
+
+PRIYAMVAD� AND ANAS�Y�.--He would honor this our distinguished guest
+with an offering of the most precious of his possessions.
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--Go to! you have some silly idea in your minds. I will not
+listen to such remarks.
+
+KING.--May I be allowed, in my turn, to ask you maidens a few
+particulars respecting your friend?
+
+PRIYAMVAD� AND ANAS�Y�.--Your request, Sir, is an honor.
+
+KING.--The sage Kanwa lives in the constant practice of austerities.
+How, then, can this friend of yours be called his daughter?
+
+ANAS�Y�.--I will explain to you, Sir. You have heard of an illustrious
+sage of regal caste, Visw�mitra, whose family name is Ka�sika.
+
+KING.--I have.
+
+ANAS�Y�.--Know that he is the real father of our friend. The venerable
+Kanwa is only her reputed father. He it was who brought her up, when she
+was deserted by her mother.
+
+KING.--"Deserted by her mother!" My curiosity is excited; pray let me
+hear the story from the beginning.
+
+ANAS�Y�.--You shall hear it, Sir. Some time since, this sage of regal
+caste, while performing a most severe penance on the banks of the river
+God�var�, excited the jealousy and alarm of the gods; insomuch that they
+despatched a lovely nymph named Menak� to interrupt his devotions.
+
+KING.--The inferior gods, I am aware, are jealous of the power which the
+practice of excessive devotion confers on mortals.
+
+ANAS�Y�.--Well, then, it happened that Visw�mitra, gazing on the
+bewitching beauty of that nymph at a season when, spring being in its
+glory------
+          [_Stops short, and appears confused_.
+
+KING.--The rest may be easily divined. Sakoontal�, then, is the
+offspring of the nymph.
+
+ANAS�Y�.--Just so.
+
+KING.--It is quite intelligible.
+    How could a mortal to such charms give birth?
+    The lightning's radiance flashes not from earth.
+
+          [_Sakoontal� remains modestly seated with downcast eyes.
+
+[Aside_]. And so my desire has really scope for its indulgence. Yet I am
+still distracted by doubts, remembering the pleasantry of her female
+companions respecting her wish for a husband.
+
+PRIYAMVAD� [_looking with a smile at Sakoontal�, and then turning
+towards the King_].--You seem desirous, Sir, of asking something
+further.
+
+          [_Sakoontal� makes a chiding gesture with her finger_.
+
+KING.--You conjecture truly. I am so eager to hear the particulars of
+your friend's history, that I have still another question to ask.
+
+PRIYAMVAD�.--Scruple not to do so. Persons who lead the life of hermits
+may be questioned unreservedly.
+
+KING.--I wish to ascertain one point respecting your friend--
+    Will she be bound by solitary vows
+    Opposed to love, till her espousals only?
+    Or ever dwell with these her cherished fawns,
+    Whose eyes, in lustre vieing with her own,
+    Return her gaze of sisterly affection?
+
+PRIYAMVAD�.--Hitherto, Sir, she has been engaged in the practice of
+religious duties, and has lived in subjection to her foster-father; but
+it is now his fixed intention to give her away in marriage to a husband
+worthy of her.
+
+KING [_aside_].--His intention may be easily carried into effect.
+    Be hopeful, O my heart, thy harrowing doubts
+    Are past and gone; that which thou didst believe
+    To be as unapproachable as fire,
+    Is found a glittering gem that may be touched.
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_pretending anger_].--Anas�y�, I shall leave you.
+
+ANAS�Y�.--Why so?
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--That I may go and report this impertinent Priyamvad� to the
+venerable matron, Gautam�.[34]
+
+ANAS�Y�.--Surely, dear friend, it would not be right to leave a
+distinguished guest before he has received the rights of hospitality,
+and quit his presence in this wilful manner.
+
+          [_Sakoontal�, without answering a word, moves away_.
+
+KING [_making a movement to arrest her departure, but checking himself.
+Aside_].--Ah! a lover's feelings betray themselves by his gestures.
+    When I would fain have stayed the maid, a sense
+    Of due decorum checked my bold design:
+    Though I have stirred not, yet my mien betrays
+    My eagerness to follow on her steps.
+
+PRIYAMVAD� [_holding Sakoontal� back_].--Dear Sakoontal�, it does not
+become you to go away in this manner.
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_frowning_].--Why not, pray?
+
+PRIYAMVAD�.--You are under a promise to water two more shrubs for me.
+When you have paid your debt, you shall go, and not before.
+          [_Forces her to turn back_.
+
+KING.--Spare her this trouble, gentle maiden. The exertion of watering
+the shrubs has already fatigued her.
+    The water-jar has overtasked the strength
+    Of her slim arms; her shoulders droop, her hands
+    Are ruddy with the glow of quickened pulses;
+    E'en now her agitated breath imparts
+    Unwonted tremor to her heaving breast;
+    The pearly drops that mar the recent bloom
+    Of the Sir�sha pendant in her ear,
+    Gather in clustering circles on her cheek;
+    Loosed is the fillet of her hair: her hand
+    Restrains the locks that struggle to be free.
+Suffer me, then, thus to discharge the debt for you.
+
+[_Offers a ring to Priyamvad�. Both the maidens, reading the name
+Dushyanta on the seal, look at each other with surprise._
+
+KING.--Nay, think not that I am King Dushyanta. I am only the king's
+officer, and this is the ring which I have received from him as my
+credentials.
+
+PRIYAMVAD�.--The greater the reason you ought not to part with the ring
+from your finger. I am content to release her from her obligation at
+your simple request. [_With a smile_.] Now, Sakoontal� my love, you are
+at liberty to retire, thanks to the intercession of this noble stranger,
+or rather of this mighty prince.
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_aside_].--My movements are no longer under my own control.
+[_Aloud_.] Pray, what authority have you over me, either to send me away
+or keep me back?
+
+KING [_gazing at Sakoontal�. Aside_].--Would I could ascertain whether
+she is affected towards me as I am towards her! At any rate, my hopes
+are free to indulge themselves. Because,
+    Although she mingles not her words with mine,
+    Yet doth her listening ear drink in my speech;
+    Although her eye shrinks from my ardent gaze,
+    No form but mine attracts its timid glances.
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--O hermits, be ready to protect the
+animals belonging to our hermitage. King Dushyanta, amusing himself with
+hunting, is near at hand.
+    Lo! by the feet of prancing horses raised,
+    Thick clouds of moving dust, like glittering swarms
+    Of locusts in the glow of eventide,
+    Fall on the branches of our sacred trees;
+    Where hang the dripping vests of woven bark,
+    Bleached by the waters of the cleansing fountain.
+And see!
+    Scared by the royal chariot in its course,
+    With headlong haste an elephant invades
+    The hallowed precincts of our sacred grove;
+    Himself the terror of the startled deer,
+    And an embodied hindrance to our rites.
+    The hedge of creepers clinging to his feet,
+    Feeble obstruction to his mad career,
+    Is dragged behind him in a tangled chain;
+    And with terrific shock one tusk he drives
+    Into the riven body of a tree,
+    Sweeping before him all impediments.
+
+KING [_aside_].--Out upon it! my retinue are looking for me, and are
+disturbing this holy retreat. Well! there is no help for it; I must go
+and meet them.
+
+PRIYAMVAD� AND ANAS�Y�.--Noble Sir, we are terrified by the accidental
+disturbance caused by the wild elephant. Permit us to return into the
+cottage.
+
+KING [_hastily_].--Go, gentle maidens. It shall be our care that no
+injury happen to the hermitage.          [_All rise up_.
+
+PRIYAMVAD� AND ANAS�Y�.--After such poor hospitality we are ashamed to
+request the honor of a second visit from you.
+
+KING.--Say not so. The mere sight of you, sweet maidens, has been to me
+the best entertainment.
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--Anas�y�, a pointed blade of Kusa-grass[35] has pricked my
+foot; and my bark-mantle is caught in the branch of a Kuruvaka-bush. Be
+so good as to wait for me until I have disentangled it.
+[_Exit with her two companions, after making pretexts for delay, that
+she may steal glances at the King_.
+
+KING.--I have no longer any desire to return to the city. I will
+therefore rejoin my attendants, and make them encamp somewhere in the
+vicinity of this sacred grove. In good truth, Sakoontal� has taken such
+possession of my thoughts, that I cannot turn myself in any other
+direction.
+    My limbs drawn onward leave my heart behind,
+    Like silken pennon borne against the wind.
+
+
+[33] The speed of the chariot resembled that of the wind and the sun.
+Indra was the god of the firmament or atmosphere. The sun, in Hindoo
+mythology, is represented as seated in a chariot drawn by seven green
+horses, having before him a lovely youth without legs, who acts as
+charioteer, and who is Aruna, or the Dawn personified.
+
+[34] The Matron or Superior of the female part of the society of
+hermits. Their authority resembled that of an abbess in a convent of
+nuns.
+
+[35] A grass held sacred by the Hindoos and freely used at their
+religious ceremonies. Its leaves are very long and taper to a
+needle-like point.
+
+
+
+
+ACT SECOND
+
+Scene.--A Plain on the Skirts of the Forest
+
+
+_Enter the Jester, M�thavya, in a melancholy mood_.
+
+M�THAVYA [_sighing_].--Heigh-ho! what an unlucky fellow I am! worn to a
+shadow by my royal friend's sporting propensities. "Here's a deer!"
+"There goes a boar!" "Yonder's a tiger!" This is the only burden of our
+talk, while in the heat of the meridian sun we toil on from jungle to
+jungle, wandering about in the paths of the woods, where the trees
+afford us no shelter. Are we thirsty? We have nothing to drink but the
+foul water of some mountain stream, filled with dry leaves which give it
+a most pungent flavor. Are we hungry? We have nothing to eat but roast
+game, which we must swallow down at odd times, as best we can. Even at
+night there is no peace to be had. Sleeping is out of the question, with
+joints all strained by dancing attendance upon my sporting friend; or if
+I do happen to doze, I am awakened at the very earliest dawn by the
+horrible din of a lot of rascally beaters and huntsmen, who must needs
+surround the wood before sunrise, and deafen me with their clatter. Nor
+are these my only troubles. Here's a fresh grievance, like a new boil
+rising upon an old one! Yesterday, while we were lagging behind, my
+royal friend entered yonder hermitage after a deer; and there, as
+ill-luck would have it? caught sight of a beautiful girl, called
+Sakoontal�, the hermit's daughter. From that moment, not another thought
+about returning to the city! and all last night, not a wink of sleep did
+he get for thinking of the damsel. What is to be done? At any rate, I
+will be on the watch for him as soon as he has finished his toilet.
+[[_Walking and looking about_.] Oh! here he comes, attended by the
+Yavana women with bows in their hands, and wearing garlands of wild
+flowers. What shall I do? I have it. I will pretend to stand in the
+easiest attitude for resting my bruised and crippled limbs.
+          [_Stands leaning on a staff_.
+
+_Enter King Dushyanta, followed by a retinue in the manner described_.
+
+KING.--True, by no easy conquest may I win her,
+    Yet are my hopes encouraged by her mien.
+    Love is not yet triumphant; but, methinks,
+    The hearts of both are ripe for his delights.
+[_Smiling_.] Ah! thus does the lover delude himself; judging of the
+state of his loved one's feelings by his own desires. But yet,
+    The stolen glance with half-averted eye,
+    The hesitating gait, the quick rebuke
+    Addressed to her companion, who would fain
+    Have stayed her counterfeit departure; these
+    Are signs not unpropitious to my suit.
+    So eagerly the lover feeds his hopes,
+    Claiming each trivial gesture for his own.
+
+M�THAVYA [_still in the same attitude_].--Ah, friend, my hands cannot
+move to greet you with the usual salutation. I can only just command my
+lips to wish your majesty victory.
+
+KING.--Why, what has paralyzed your limbs?
+
+M�THAVYA.--You might as well ask me how my eye comes to water after you
+have poked your finger into it.
+
+KING.--I don't understand you; speak more intelligibly.
+
+M�THAVYA.--Ah, my dear friend, is yonder upright reed transformed into a
+crooked plant by its own act, or by the force of the current?
+
+KING.--The current of the river causes it, I suppose.
+
+M�THAVYA.--Aye; just as you are the cause of my crippled limbs.
+
+KING.--How so?
+
+M�THAVYA.--Here are you living the life of a wild man of the woods in a
+savage, unfrequented region, while your state affairs are left to shift
+for themselves; and as for poor me, I am no longer master of my own
+limbs, but have to follow you about day after day in your chases after
+wild animals, till my bones are all crippled and out of joint. Do, my
+dear friend, let me have one day's rest.
+
+KING [_aside_].--This fellow little knows, while he talks in this
+manner, that my mind is wholly engrossed by recollections of the
+hermit's daughter, and quite as disinclined to the chase as his own.
+    No longer can I bend my well-braced bow
+    Against the timid deer; nor e'er again
+    With well-aimed arrows can I think to harm
+    These her beloved associates, who enjoy
+    The privilege of her companionship;
+    Teaching her tender glances in return.
+
+M�THAVYA [_looking in the King's face_].--I may as well speak to the
+winds, for any attention you pay to my requests. I suppose you have
+something on your mind, and are talking it over to yourself.
+
+KING [_smiling_].--I was only thinking that I ought not to disregard a
+friend's request.
+
+M�THAVYA.--Then may the King live forever!          [_Moves off_.
+
+KING.--Stay a moment, my dear friend. I have something else to say to
+you.
+
+M�THAVYA.--Say on, then.
+
+KING.--When you have rested, you must assist me in another business,
+which will give you no fatigue.
+
+M�THAVYA.--In eating something nice, I hope.
+
+KING.--You shall know at some future time.
+
+M�THAVYA.--No time better than the present.
+
+KING.--What ho! there.
+
+WARDER [_entering_].--What are your Majesty's commands?
+
+KING.--O Raivataka! bid the General of the forces attend.
+
+WARDER.--I will, Sire.        [_Exit and re�nters with the General_]
+Come forward, General; his Majesty is looking towards you, and has some
+order to give you.
+
+GENERAL [_looking at the King_].--Though hunting is known to produce ill
+effects, my royal master has derived only benefit from it. For
+    Like the majestic elephant that roams
+    O'er mountain wilds, so does the King display
+    A stalwart frame, instinct with vigorous life.
+    His brawny arms and manly chest are scored
+    By frequent passage of the sounding string;
+    Unharmed he bears the mid-day sun; no toil
+    His mighty spirit daunts; his sturdy limbs,
+    Stripped of redundant flesh, relinquish nought
+    Of their robust proportions, but appear
+    In muscle, nerve, and sinewy fibre cased.
+[_Approaching the King_.] Victory to the King! We have tracked the wild
+beasts to their lairs in the forest. Why delay, when everything is
+ready?
+
+KING.--My friend M�thavya here has been disparaging the chase, till he
+has taken away all my relish for it.
+
+GENERAL [_aside to M�thavya_].--Persevere in your opposition, my good
+fellow; I will sound the King's real feelings, and humor him
+accordingly. [_Aloud_]. The blockhead talks nonsense, and your Majesty,
+in your own person, furnishes the best proof of it. Observe, Sire, the
+advantage and pleasure the hunter derives from the chase.
+    Freed from all grosser influences, his frame
+    Loses its sluggish humors, and becomes
+    Buoyant, compact, and fit for bold encounter.
+    'Tis his to mark with joy the varied passions,
+    Fierce heats of anger, terror, blank dismay,
+    Of forest animals that cross his path.
+    Then what a thrill transports the hunter's soul,
+    When, with unerring course, his driven shaft
+    Pierces the moving mark! Oh! 'tis conceit
+    In moralists to call the chase a vice;
+    What recreation can compare with this?
+
+M�THAVYA [_angrily_].--Away! tempter, away! The King has recovered his
+senses, and is himself again. As for you, you may, if you choose, wander
+about from forest to forest, till some old bear seizes you by the nose,
+and makes a mouthful of you.
+
+KING.--My good General, as we are just now in the neighborhood of a
+consecrated grove, your panegyric upon hunting is somewhat ill-timed,
+and I cannot assent to all you have said. For the present,
+    All undisturbed the buffaloes shall sport
+    In yonder pool, and with their ponderous horns
+    Scatter its tranquil waters, while the deer,
+    Couched here and there in groups beneath the shade
+    Of spreading branches, ruminate in peace.
+    And all securely shall the herd of boars
+    Feed on the marshy sedge; and thou, my bow,
+    With slackened string enjoy a long repose.
+
+GENERAL.--So please your Majesty, it shall be as you desire.
+
+KING.--Recall, then, the beaters who were sent in advance to surround
+the forest. My troops must not be allowed to disturb this sacred
+retreat, and irritate its pious inhabitants.
+    Know that within the calm and cold recluse
+    Lurks unperceived a germ of smothered flame,
+    All-potent to destroy; a latent fire
+    That rashly kindled bursts with fury forth:--
+    As in the disc of crystal that remains
+    Cool to the touch, until the solar ray
+    Falls on its polished surface, and excites
+    The burning heat that lies within concealed.
+
+GENERAL.--Your Majesty's commands shall be obeyed.
+
+M�THAVYA.--Off with you, you son of a slave! Your nonsense won't go down
+here, my fine fellow.          [_Exit General_.
+
+KING [_looking at his attendants_].--Here, women, take my hunting-dress;
+and you, Raivataka, keep guard carefully outside.
+
+ATTENDANTS.--We will, sire.          [_Exeunt._
+
+M�THAVYA.--Now that you have got rid of these plagues, who have been
+buzzing about us like so many flies, sit down, do, on that stone slab,
+with the shade of the tree as your canopy, and I will seat myself by you
+quite comfortably.
+
+KING.--Go you, and sit down first.
+
+M�THAVYA.--Come along, then.
+
+          [_Both walk on a little way, and seat themselves_.
+
+KING.--M�thavya, it may be said of you that you have never beheld
+anything worth seeing: for your eyes have not yet looked upon the
+loveliest object in creation.
+
+M�THAVYA.--How can you say so, when I see your Majesty before me at this
+moment?
+
+KING.--It is very natural that everyone should consider his own friend
+perfect; but I was alluding to Sakoontal�, the brightest ornament of
+these hallowed groves.
+
+M�THAVYA [_aside_].--I understand well enough, but I am not going to
+humor him. [_Aloud_.] If, as you intimate, she is a hermit's daughter,
+you cannot lawfully ask her in marriage. You may as well, then, dismiss
+her from your mind, for any good the mere sight of her can do.
+
+KING.--Think you that a descendant of the mighty Puru could fix his
+affections on an unlawful object?
+    Though, as men say, the offspring of the sage,
+    The maiden to a nymph celestial owes
+    Her being, and by her mother left on earth,
+    Was found and nurtured by the holy man
+    As his own daughter, in this hermitage;--
+    So, when dissevered from its parent stalk,
+    Some falling blossom of the jasmine, wafted
+    Upon the sturdy sunflower, is preserved
+    By its support from premature decay.
+
+M�THAVYA [_smiling_].--This passion of yours for a rustic maiden, when
+you have so many gems of women at home in your palace, seems to me very
+like the fancy of a man who is tired of sweet dates, and longs for sour
+tamarinds as a variety.
+
+KING.--You have not seen her, or you would not talk in this fashion.
+
+M�THAVYA.--I can quite understand it must require something surpassingly
+attractive to excite the admiration of such a great man as you.
+
+KING.--I will describe her, my dear friend, in a few words--
+    Man's all-wise Maker, wishing to create
+    A faultless form, whose matchless symmetry
+    Should far transcend Creation's choicest works,
+    Did call together by his mighty will,
+    And garner up in his eternal mind,
+    A bright assemblage of all lovely things:--
+    And then, as in a picture, fashion them
+    Into one perfect and ideal form.
+    Such the divine, the wondrous prototype,
+    Whence her fair shape was moulded into being.
+
+M�THAVYA.--If that's the case, she must indeed throw all other beauties
+into the shade.
+
+KING.--To my mind she really does.
+    This peerless maid is like a fragrant flower,
+    Whose perfumed breath has never been diffused;
+    A tender bud, that no profaning hand
+    Has dared to sever from its parent stalk;
+    A gem of priceless water, just released
+    Pure and unblemished from its glittering bed.
+    Or may the maiden haply be compared
+    To sweetest honey, that no mortal lip
+    Has sipped; or, rather to the mellowed fruit
+    Of virtuous actions in some former birth,
+    Now brought to full perfection? Lives the man
+    Whom bounteous heaven has destined to espouse her?
+
+M�THAVYA.--Make haste, then, to her aid; you have no time to lose, if
+you don't wish this fruit of all the virtues to drop into the mouth of
+some greasy-headed rustic of devout habits.
+
+KING.--The lady is not her own mistress, and her foster-father is not at
+home.
+
+M�THAVYA.--Well, but tell me, did she look at all kindly upon you?
+
+KING.--Maidens brought up in a hermitage are naturally shy and reserved;
+but for all that,
+    She did look towards me, though she quick withdrew
+    Her stealthy glances when she met my gaze;
+    She smiled upon me sweetly, but disguised
+    With maiden grace the secret of her smiles.
+    Coy love was half unveiled; then, sudden checked
+    By modesty, left half to be divined.
+
+M�THAVYA.--Why, of course, my dear friend, you never could seriously
+expect that at the very first sight she would fall over head and ears in
+love with you, and without more ado come and sit in your lap.
+
+KING.--When we parted from each other, she betrayed her liking for me by
+clearer indications, but still with the utmost modesty.
+    Scarce had the fair one from my presence passed,
+    When, suddenly, without apparent cause,
+    She stopped, and counterfeiting pain, exclaimed,
+    "My foot is wounded by this prickly grass."
+    Then glancing at me tenderly, she feigned
+    Another charming pretext for delay,
+    Pretending that a bush had caught her robe,
+    And turned as if to disentangle it.
+
+M�THAVYA.--I trust you have laid in a good stock of provisions, for I
+see you intend making this consecrated grove your game-preserve, and
+will be roaming here in quest of sport for some time to come.
+
+KING.--You must know, my good fellow, that I have been recognized by
+some of the inmates of the hermitage. Now I want the assistance of your
+fertile invention, in devising some excuse for going there again.
+
+M�THAVYA.--There is but one expedient that I can suggest. You are the
+King, are you not?
+
+KING.--What then?
+
+M�THAVYA.--Say you have come for the sixth part of their grain, which
+they owe you for tribute.
+
+KING.--No, no, foolish man; these hermits pay me a very different kind
+of tribute, which I value more than heaps of gold or jewels; observe,
+    The tribute which my other subjects bring
+    Must moulder into dust, but holy men
+    Present me with a portion of the fruits
+    Of penitential services and prayers--
+    A precious and imperishable gift.
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--We are fortunate; here is the object of
+our search.
+
+KING [_listening],_--Surely those must be the voices of hermits, to
+judge by their deep tones.
+
+WARDER [_entering],_--Victory to the King! two young hermits are in
+waiting outside, and solicit an audience of your Majesty.
+
+KING.--Introduce them immediately.
+
+WARDER.--I will, my liege. [_Goes out, and re�nters with two young
+Hermits_.] This way, Sirs, this way.
+
+          [_Both the Hermits look at the King_
+
+FIRST HERMIT.--How majestic is his mien, and yet what confidence it
+inspires! But this might be expected in a king whose character and
+habits have earned for him a title only one degree removed from that of
+a Saint.
+    In this secluded grove, whose sacred joys
+    All may participate, he deigns to dwell
+    Like one of us; and daily treasures up
+    A store of purest merit for himself,
+    By the protection of our holy rites.
+    In his own person wondrously are joined
+    Both majesty and saintlike holiness:--
+    And often chanted by inspired bards,
+    His hallowed title of "Imperial Sage"
+    Ascends in joyous accents to the skies.
+
+SECOND HERMIT.--Bear in mind, Gautama, that this is the great Dushyanta,
+the friend of Indra.
+
+FIRST HERMIT.--What of that?
+
+SECOND HERMIT.--Where is the wonder if his nervous arm,
+    Puissant and massive as the iron bar
+    That binds a castle-gateway, singly sways
+    The sceptre of the universal earth,
+    E'en to its dark-green boundary of waters?
+    Or if the gods, beholden to his aid
+    In their fierce warfare with the powers of hell,
+    Should blend his name with Indra's in their songs
+    Of victory, and gratefully accord
+    No lower meed of praise to his braced bow,
+    Than to the thunders of the god of heaven?
+
+BOTH THE HERMITS [_approaching_].--Victory to the King!
+
+KING [_rising from his seat_].--Hail to you both!
+
+BOTH THE HERMITS.--Heaven bless your Majesty!
+
+          [_They offer fruits_.
+
+KING [_respectfully receiving the offering_].--Tell me, I pray you, the
+object of your visit.
+
+BOTH THE HERMITS.--The inhabitants of the hermitage having heard of your
+Majesty's sojourn in our neighborhood, make this humble petition.
+
+KING.--What are their commands?
+
+BOTH THE HERMITS.--In the absence of our Superior, the great Sage Kanwa,
+evil demons are disturbing our sacrificial rites.[36] Deign, therefore,
+accompanied by your charioteer, to take up your abode in our hermitage
+for a few days.
+
+KING.--I am honored by your invitation.
+
+M�THAVYA [_aside_].--Most opportune and convenient, certainly!
+
+KING [_smiling_].--Ho! there, Raivataka! Tell the charioteer from me to
+bring round the chariot with my bow.
+
+WARDER.--I will, Sire.           [_Exit._
+
+BOTH THE HERMITS [_joyfully_].--Well it becomes the King by acts of
+grace
+    To emulate the virtues of his race.
+    Such acts thy lofty destiny attest;
+    Thy mission is to succor the distressed.
+
+KING [_bowing to the Hermits_].--Go first, reverend Sirs, I will follow
+you immediately.
+
+BOTH THE HERMITS.--May victory attend you!          [_Exeunt._
+
+KING.--My dear M�thavya, are you not full of longing to see Sakoontal�?
+
+M�THAVYA.--To tell you the truth, though I was just now brimful of
+desire to see her, I have not a drop left since this piece of news about
+the demons.
+
+KING.--Never fear; you shall keep close to me for protection.
+
+M�THAVYA.--Well, you must be my guardian-angel, and act the part of a
+very Vishnu[37] to me.
+
+WARDER--[_entering_].--Sire, the chariot is ready, and only waits to
+conduct you to victory. But here is a messenger named Karabhaka, just
+arrived from your capital, with a message from the Queen, your mother.
+
+KING--[_respectfully_].--How say you? a messenger from the venerable
+Queen?
+
+WARDER.--Even so.
+
+KING.--Introduce him at once.
+
+WARDER.--I will, Sire. [_Goes out, and re-�nters with Karabhaka_.]
+Behold the King! Approach.
+
+KARABHAKA.--Victory to the King! The Queen-mother bids me say that in
+four days from the present time she intends celebrating a solemn
+ceremony for the advancement and preservation of her son. She expects
+that your Majesty will honor her with your presence on that occasion.
+
+KING.--This places me in a dilemma. Here, on the one hand, is the
+commission of these holy men to be executed; and, on the other, the
+command of my revered parent to be obeyed. Both duties are too sacred to
+be neglected. What is to be done?
+
+M�THAVYA.--You will have to take up an intermediate position between the
+two, like King Trisanku, who was suspended between heaven and earth,
+because the sage Visw�mitra commanded him to mount up to heaven, and the
+gods ordered him down again.
+
+KING.--I am certainly very much perplexed. For here,
+    Two different duties are required of me
+    In widely distant places; how can I
+    In my own person satisfy them both?
+    Thus is my mind distracted and impelled
+    In opposite directions, like a stream
+    That, driven back by rocks, still rushes on,
+    Forming two currents in its eddying course.
+[_Reflecting_.] Friend M�thavya, as you were my playfellow in childhood,
+the Queen has always received you like a second son; go you, then, back
+to her and tell her of my solemn engagement to assist these holy men.
+You can supply my place in the ceremony, and act the part of a son to
+the Queen.
+
+M�THAVYA.--With the greatest pleasure in the world; but don't suppose
+that I am really coward enough to have the slightest fear of those
+trumpery demons.
+
+KING [_smiling_].--Oh! of course not; a great Br�hman like you could not
+possibly give way to such weakness.
+
+M�THAVYA.--You must let me travel in a manner suitable to the King's
+younger brother.
+
+KING.--Yes, I shall send my retinue with you, that there may be no
+further disturbance in this sacred forest.
+
+M�THAVYA [_with a strut_].--Already I feel quite like a young prince.
+
+KING [_aside_].--This is a giddy fellow, and in all probability he will
+let out the truth about my present pursuit to the women of the palace.
+What is to be done? I must say something to deceive him. [_Aloud to
+M�thavya, taking him by the hand_.] Dear friend, I am going to the
+hermitage wholly and solely out of respect for its pious inhabitants,
+and not because I have really any liking for Sakoontal�, the hermit's
+daughter. Observe,
+    What suitable communion could there be
+    Between a monarch and a rustic girl?
+    I did but feign an idle passion, friend,
+    Take not in earnest what was said in jest.
+
+M�THAVYA.--Don't distress yourself; I quite understand.
+
+          [_Exeunt._
+
+
+[36] The religious rites of holy men were often disturbed by certain
+evil spirits called R�kshasas, who were the determined enemies of piety
+and devotion.
+
+[37] Vishnu, the Preserver, was one of the three principal gods.
+
+
+
+
+PRELUDE TO ACT THIRD
+
+Scene.--The Hermitage
+
+
+_Enter a young Br�hman, carrying bundles of Kusa-grass for the use of
+the sacrificing priests_.
+
+YOUNG BR�HMAN.--How wonderful is the power of King Dushyanta! No sooner
+did he enter our hermitage, than we were able to proceed with our
+sacrificial rites, unmolested by the evil demons.
+    No need to fix the arrow to the bow;
+    The mighty monarch sounds the quivering string,
+    And, by the thunder of his arms dismayed,
+    Our demon foes are scattered to the wind.
+I must now, therefore, make haste and deliver to the sacrificing priests
+these bundles of Kusa-grass, to be strewn round the altar. [_Walking and
+looking about; then addressing someone off the stage_.] Why, Priyamvad�,
+for whose use are you carrying that ointment of Us�ra-root and those
+lotus leaves with fibres attached to them? [_Listening for her answer_.]
+What say you?--that Sakoontal� is suffering from fever produced by
+exposure to the sun, and that this ointment is to cool her burning
+frame? Nurse her with care, then, Priyamvad�, for she is cherished by
+our reverend Superior as the very breath of his nostrils. I, for my
+part, will contrive that soothing waters, hallowed in the sacrifice, be
+administered to her by the hands of Gautam�.
+          [_Exit._
+
+
+
+
+ACT THIRD
+
+Scene.--The Sacred Grove
+
+
+_Enter King Dushyanta, with the air of one in love_.
+
+KING [_sighing thoughtfully_].--The holy sage possesses magic power
+    In virtue of his penance; she, his ward,
+    Under the shadow of his tutelage
+    Rests in security. I know it well;
+    Yet sooner shall the rushing cataract
+    In foaming eddies re-ascend the steep,
+    Than my fond heart turn back from its pursuit.
+
+God of Love! God of the flowery shafts![38] we are all of us cruelly
+deceived by thee, and by the Moon, however deserving of confidence you
+may both appear.
+
+    For not to us do these thine arrows seem
+    Pointed with tender flowerets; not to us
+    Doth the pale moon irradiate the earth
+    With beams of silver fraught with cooling dews:--
+    But on our fevered frames the moon-beams fall
+    Like darts of fire, and every flower-tipped shaft
+    Of K�ma, as it probes our throbbing hearts,
+    Seems to be barbed with hardest adamant.
+
+Adorable god of love! hast thou no pity for me? [_In a tone of
+anguish_.] How can thy arrows be so sharp when they are pointed with
+flowers? Ah! I know the reason:
+
+    E'en now in thine unbodied essence lurks
+    The fire of Siva's anger, like the flame
+    That ever hidden in the secret depths
+    Of ocean, smoulders there unseen. How else
+    Couldst thou, all immaterial as thou art,
+    Inflame our hearts thus fiercely?--thou, whose form
+    Was scorched to ashes by a sudden flash
+    From the offended god's terrific eye.
+Yet, methinks,
+    Welcome this anguish, welcome to my heart
+    These rankling wounds inflicted by the god,
+    Who on his scutcheon bears the monster-fish
+    Slain by his prowess: welcome death itself,
+    So that, commissioned by the lord of love,
+    This fair one be my executioner.
+
+Adorable divinity! Can I by no reproaches excite your commiseration?
+
+    Have I not daily offered at thy shrine
+    Innumerable vows, the only food
+    Of thine ethereal essence? Are my prayers
+    Thus to be slighted? Is it meet that thou
+    Shouldst aim thy shafts at thy true votary's heart,
+    Drawing thy bow-string even to thy ear?
+
+[_Pacing up and down in a melancholy manner_.] Now that the holy men
+have completed their rites, and have no more need of my services, how
+shall I dispel my melancholy? [_Sighing._ I have but one resource. Oh
+for another sight of the idol of my soul! I will seek her. [_Glancing at
+the sun._] In all probability, as the sun's heat is now at its height,
+Sakoontal� is passing her time under the shade of the bowers on the
+banks of the M�lin�, attended by her maidens. I will go and look for her
+there. [_Walking and looking about._] I suspect the fair one has but
+just passed by this avenue of young-trees.
+
+    Here, as she tripped along, her fingers plucked
+    The opening buds: these lacerated plants,
+    Shorn of their fairest blossoms by her hand,
+    Seem like dismembered trunks, whose recent wounds
+    Are still unclosed; while from the bleeding socket
+    Of many a severed stalk, the milky juice
+    Still slowly trickles, and betrays her path.
+
+[_Feeling a breeze._] What a delicious breeze meets me in this spot!
+
+    Here may the zephyr, fragrant with the scent
+    Of lotuses, and laden with the spray
+    Caught from the waters of the rippling stream,
+    Fold in its close embrace my fevered limbs.
+
+[_Walking and looking about._] She must be somewhere in the neighborhood
+of this arbor of overhanging creepers, enclosed by plantations of cane.
+          [_Looking down._]
+
+    For at the entrance here I plainly see
+    A line of footsteps printed in the sand.
+    Here are the fresh impressions of her feet;
+    Their well-known outline faintly marked in front,
+    More deeply towards the heel; betokening
+    The graceful undulation of her gait.
+
+I will peep through those branches. [_Walking and looking. With
+transport._] Ah! now my eyes are gratified by an entrancing sight.
+Yonder is the beloved of my heart reclining on a rock strewn with
+flowers, and attended by her two friends. How fortunate! Concealed
+behind the leaves, I will listen to their conversation, without raising
+their suspicions.          [_Stands concealed, and gazes at them._]
+
+_Sakoontal� and her two attendants, holding fans in their hands are
+discovered as described_.
+
+PRIYAMVAD� AND ANAS�Y� [_fanning her. In a tone of affection._]--Dearest
+Sakoontal�, is the breeze raised by these broad lotus leaves refreshing
+to you?
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--Dear friends, why should you trouble yourselves to fan me?
+
+          [_Priyamvad� and Anas�y� look sorrowfully at one another._]
+
+KING.--Sakoontal� seems indeed to be seriously ill. [_Thoughtfully._]Can
+it be the intensity of the heat that has affected her? or does my heart
+suggest the true cause of her malady? [_Gazing at her passionately._]
+Why should I doubt it?
+    The maiden's spotless bosom is o'erspread
+    With cooling balsam; on her slender arm
+    Her only bracelet, twined with lotus stalks,
+    Hangs loose and withered; her recumbent form
+    Expresses languor. Ne'er could noon-day sun
+    Inflict such fair disorder on a maid--
+    No, love, and love alone, is hereto blame.
+
+PRIYAMVAD� [_aside to Anas�y�._]--I have observed, Anas�y�, that
+Sakoontal� has been indisposed ever since her first interview with King
+Dushyanta. Depend upon it, her ailment is to be traced to this source.
+
+ANAS�Y�.--The same suspicion, dear Priyamvad�, has crossed my mind. But
+I will at once ask her and ascertain the truth. [_Aloud._] Dear
+Sakoontal�, I am about to put a question to you. Your indisposition is
+really very serious.
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_half-rising from her couch_].--What were you going to ask?
+
+ANAS�Y�.--We know very little about love-matters, dear Sakoontal�; but
+for all that, I cannot help suspecting your present state to be
+something similar to that of the lovers we have read about in romances.
+Tell us frankly what is the cause of your disorder. It is useless to
+apply a remedy, until the disease be understood.
+
+KING.--Anas�y� bears me out in my suspicion.
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_aside_].--I am, indeed, deeply in love; but cannot rashly
+disclose my passion to these young girls.
+
+PRIYAMVAD�.--What Anas�y� says, dear Sakoontal�, is very just. Why give
+so little heed to your ailment? Every day you are becoming thinner;
+though I must confess your complexion is still as beautiful as ever.
+
+KING.--Priyamvad� speaks most truly.
+    Sunk is her velvet cheek; her wasted bosom
+    Loses its fulness; e'en her slender waist
+    Grows more attenuate; her face is wan,
+    Her shoulders droop;--as when the vernal blasts
+    Sear the young blossoms of the M�dhav�,
+    Blighting their bloom; so mournful is the change,
+    Yet in its sadness, fascinating still,
+    Inflicted by the mighty lord of love
+    On the fair figure of the hermit's daughter.
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--Dear friends, to no one would I rather reveal the nature of
+my malady than to you; but I should only be troubling you.
+
+PRIYAMVAD� AND ANAS�Y�.--Nay, this is the very point about which we are
+so solicitous. Sorrow shared with affectionate friends is relieved of
+half its poignancy.
+
+KING.--Pressed by the partners of her joys and griefs, Her much beloved
+companions, to reveal The cherished secret locked within her breast,
+She needs must utter it; although her looks Encourage me to hope, my
+bosom throbs As anxiously I listen for her answer.
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--Know then, dear friends, that from the first moment the
+illustrious Prince, who is the guardian of our sacred grove, presented
+himself to my sight--
+          [_Stops short, and appears confused._]
+
+PRIYAMVAD� AND ANAS�Y�.--Say on, dear Sakoontal�, say on.
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--Ever since that happy moment, my heart's affections have
+been fixed upon him, and my energies of mind and body have all deserted
+me, as you see.
+
+KING [_with rapture_].--Her own lips have uttered the words I most
+longed to hear.
+    Love lit the flame, and Love himself allays
+    My burning fever, as when gathering clouds
+    Rise o'er the earth in summer's dazzling noon,
+    And grateful showers dispel the morning heat.
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--You must consent, then, dear friends, to contrive some
+means by which I may find favor with the King, or you will have ere long
+to assist at my funeral.
+
+KING [_with rapture_].--Enough! These words remove all my doubts.
+
+PRIYAMVAD� [_aside to Anas�y�_].--She is far gone in love, dear Anas�y�,
+and no time ought to be lost. Since she has fixed her affections on a
+monarch who is the ornament of Puru's line, we need not hesitate for a
+moment to express our approval.
+
+ANAS�Y�.--I quite agree with you.
+
+PRIYAMVAD� [_aloud_].--We wish you joy, dear Sakoontal�. Your affections
+are fixed on an object in every respect worthy of you. The noblest river
+will unite itself to the ocean, and the lovely M�dhav�-creeper clings
+naturally to the Mango, the only tree capable of supporting it.
+
+KING.--Why need we wonder if the beautiful constellation Vis�kh� pines
+to be united with the Moon.
+
+ANAS�Y�.--By what stratagem can we best secure to our friend the
+accomplishment of her heart's desire, both speedily and secretly?
+
+PRIYAMVAD�.--The latter point is all we have to think about. As to
+"speedily," I look upon the whole affair as already settled.
+
+ANAS�Y�.--How so?
+
+PRIYAMVAD�.--Did you not observe how the King betrayed his liking by the
+tender manner in which he gazed upon her, and how thin he has become the
+last few days, as if he had been lying awake thinking of her?
+
+KING [_looking at himself_].--Quite true! I certainly am becoming thin
+from want of sleep:--
+    As night by night in anxious thought I raise
+    This wasted arm to rest my sleepless head,
+    My jewelled bracelet, sullied by the tears
+    That trickle from my eyes in scalding streams,
+    Slips towards my elbow from my shrivelled wrist.
+    Oft I replace the bauble, but in vain;
+    So easily it spans the fleshless limb
+    That e'en the rough and corrugated skin,
+    Scarred by the bow-string, will not check its fall.
+
+PRIYAMVAD� [_thoughtfully_].--An idea strikes me, Anas�y�. Let
+Sakoontal� write a love-letter; I will conceal it in a flower, and
+contrive to drop it in the King's path. He will surely mistake it for
+the remains of some sacred offering, and will, in all probability, pick
+it up.
+
+ANAS�Y�.--A very ingenious device! It has my entire approval; but what
+says Sakoontal�?
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--I must consider before I can consent to it.
+
+PRIYAMVAD�.--Could you not, dear Sakoontal�, think of some pretty
+composition in verse, containing a delicate declaration of your love?
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--Well, I will do my best; but my heart trembles when I think
+of the chances of a refusal.
+
+KING [_with rapture_].--Too timid maid, here stands the man from whom
+    Thou fearest a repulse; supremely blessed
+    To call thee all his own. Well might he doubt
+    His title to thy love; but how couldst thou
+    Believe thy beauty powerless to subdue him?
+
+PRIYAMVAD� AND ANAS�Y�.--You undervalue your own merits, dear
+Sakoontal�. What man in his senses would intercept with the skirt of his
+robe the bright rays of the autumnal moon, which alone can allay the
+fever of his body?
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_smiling_].--Then it seems I must do as I am bid.
+          [_Sits down and appears to be thinking._]
+
+KING.--How charming she looks! My very eyes forget to wink, jealous of
+losing even for an instant a sight so enchanting.
+    How beautiful the movement of her brow,
+    As through her mind love's tender fancies flow!
+    And, as she weighs her thoughts, how sweet to trace
+    The ardent passion mantling in her face!
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--Dear girls, I have thought of a verse, but I have no
+writing-materials at hand.
+
+PRIYAMVAD�.--Write the letters with your nail on this lotus leaf, which
+is smooth as a parrot's breast.
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_after writing the verse_].--Listen, dear friends, and tell
+me whether the ideas are appropriately expressed.
+
+PRIYAMVAD� AND ANAS�Y�.--We are all attention.
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_reads_].--
+    I know not the secret thy bosom conceals,
+      Thy form is not near me to gladden my sight;
+    But sad is the tale that my fever reveals,
+      Of the love that consumes me by day and by night.
+
+KING [_advancing hastily towards her_].--
+    Nay, Love does but warm thee, fair maiden--thy frame
+      Only droops like the bud in the glare of the noon;
+    But me he consumes with a pitiless flame,
+      As the beams of the day-star destroy the pale moon.
+
+PRIYAMVAD� AND ANAS�Y� [_looking at him joyfully, and rising to salute
+him_].--Welcome, the desire of our hearts, that so speedily presents
+itself!
+
+          [_Sakoontal� makes an effort to rise._]
+
+KING.--Nay, trouble not thyself, dear maiden,
+      Move not to do me homage; let thy limbs
+      Still softly rest upon their flowery couch,
+      And gather fragrance from the lotus stalks
+      Bruised by the fevered contact of thy frame.
+
+ANAS�Y�.--Deign, gentle Sir, to seat yourself on the rock on which our
+friend is reposing.
+
+          [_The King sits down. Sakoontal� is confused._]
+
+PRIYAMVAD�.--Anyone may see at a glance that you are deeply attached to
+each other. But the affection I have for my friend prompts me to say
+something of which you hardly require to be informed.
+
+KING.--Do not hesitate to speak out, my good girl. If you omit to say
+what is in your mind, you may be sorry for it afterwards.
+
+PRIYAMVAD�.--Is it not your special office as a King to remove the
+suffering of your subjects who are in trouble?
+
+KING.--Such is my duty, most assuredly.
+
+PRIYAMVAD�.--Know, then, that our dear friend has been brought to her
+present state of suffering entirely through love for you. Her life is in
+your hands; take pity on her and restore her to health.
+
+KING.--Excellent maiden, our attachment is mutual. It is I who am the
+most honored by it.
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_looking at Priyamvad�_].--What do you mean by detaining the
+King, who must be anxious to return to his royal consorts after so long
+a separation?
+
+KING.--Sweet maiden, banish from thy mind the thought
+    That I could love another. Thou dost reign
+    Supreme, without a rival, in my heart,
+    And I am thine alone: disown me not,
+    Else must I die a second deadlier death--
+    Killed by thy words, as erst by K�ma's shafts.
+
+ANAS�Y�.--Kind Sir, we have heard it said that kings have many favorite
+consorts. You must not, then, by your behavior towards our dear friend,
+give her relations cause to sorrow for her.
+
+KING.--Listen, gentle maiden, while in a few words I quiet your anxiety.
+    Though many beauteous forms my palace grace,
+    Henceforth two things alone will I esteem
+    The glory of my royal dynasty;--
+    My sea-girt realm, and this most lovely maid.
+
+PRIYAMVAD� AND ANAS�Y�.--We are satisfied by your assurances.
+
+PRIYAMVAD� [_glancing on one side_],--See, Anas�y�, there is our
+favorite little fawn running about in great distress, and turning its
+eyes in every direction as if looking for its mother; come, let us help
+the little thing to find her.
+
+          [_Both move away._]
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--Dear friends, dear friends, leave me not alone and
+unprotected. Why need you both go?
+
+PRIYAMVAD� AND ANAS�Y�.--Unprotected! when the Protector of the world is
+at your side.          [_Exeunt._]
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--What! have they both really left me?
+
+KING.--Distress not thyself, sweet maiden. Thy adorer is at hand to wait
+upon thee.
+    Oh, let me tend thee, fair one, in the place
+    Of thy dear friends; and, with broad lotus fans,
+    Raise cooling breezes to refresh thy frame;
+    Or shall I rather, with caressing touch,
+    Allay the fever of thy limbs, and soothe
+    Thy aching feet, beauteous as blushing lilies?
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--Nay, touch me not. I will not incur the censure of those
+whom I am bound to respect.
+          [_Rises and attempts to go._]
+
+KING.--Fair one, the heat of noon has not yet subsided, and thy body is
+still feeble.
+    How canst thou quit thy fragrant couch of flowers,
+    And from thy throbbing bosom cast aside
+    Its covering of lotus leaves, to brave
+    With weak and fainting limbs the noon-day heat?
+
+[_Forces her to turn back._]
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--Infringe not the rules of decorum, mighty descendant of
+Puru. Remember, though I love you, I have no power to dispose of myself.
+
+KING.--Why this fear of offending your relations, timid maid? When your
+venerable foster-father hears of it, he will not find fault with you. He
+knows that the law permits us to be united without consulting him.
+    In Indra's heaven, so at least 'tis said,
+    No nuptial rites prevail,[39] nor is the bride
+    Led to the altar by her future spouse;
+    But all in secret does the bridegroom plight
+    His troth, and each unto the other vow
+    Mutual allegiance. Such espousals, too,
+    Are authorized on earth, and many daughters
+    Of royal saints thus wedded to their lords,
+    Have still received their father's benison.
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--Leave me, leave me; I must take counsel with my female
+friends.
+
+KING.--I will leave thee when------
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--When?
+
+KING.--When I have gently stolen from thy lips
+    Their yet untasted nectar, to allay
+    The raging of my thirst, e'en as the bee
+    Sips the fresh honey from the opening bud.
+          [_Attempts to raise her face. Sakoontal� tries to prevent him_.
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--The loving birds, doomed by fate to
+nightly separation, must bid farewell to each other, for evening is at
+hand.
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_in confusion_].--Great Prince, I hear the voice of the
+matron Gautam�. She is coming this way, to inquire after my health.
+Hasten and conceal yourself behind the branches.
+
+KING.--I will.          [_Conceals himself_.
+
+_Enter Gautam� with a vase in her hand, preceded by two attendants_.
+
+ATTENDANTS.--This way, most venerable Gautam�.
+
+GAUTAM� [_approaching Sakoontal�_].--My child, is the fever of thy limbs
+allayed?
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--Venerable mother, there is certainly a change for the
+better.
+
+GAUTAM�.--Let me sprinkle you with this holy water, and all your
+ailments will depart. [_Sprinkling Sakoontal� on the head_.] The day is
+closing, my child; come, let us go to the cottage.
+          [_They all move away_.
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_aside_].--Oh my heart! thou didst fear to taste of
+happiness when it was within thy reach. Now that the object of thy
+desires is torn from thee, how bitter will be thy remorse, how
+distracting thine anguish! [_Moving on a few steps and stopping.
+Aloud_.] Farewell! bower of creepers, sweet soother of my sufferings,
+farewell! may I soon again be happy under thy shade.
+          [_Exit reluctantly with the others_.
+
+KING [_returning to his former seat in the arbor. Sighing_].--Alas! how
+many are the obstacles to the accomplishment of our wishes!
+    Albeit she did coyly turn away
+    Her glowing cheek, and with her fingers guard
+    Her pouting lips, that murmured a denial
+    In faltering accents, she did yield herself
+    A sweet reluctant captive to my will,
+    As eagerly I raised her lovely face:
+    But ere with gentle force I stole the kiss,
+    Too envious Fate did mar my daring purpose.
+Whither now shall I betake myself? I will tarry for a brief space in
+this bower of creepers, so endeared to me by the presence of my beloved
+Sakoontal�.
+          [_Looking round_.
+    Here printed on the flowery couch I see
+    The fair impression of her slender limbs;
+    Here is the sweet confession of her love,
+    Traced with her nail upon the lotus leaf--
+    And yonder are the withered lily stalks
+    That graced her wrist. While all around I view
+    Things that recall her image, can I quit
+    This bower, e'en though its living charm be fled?
+
+A VOICE [_in the air_].--Great King,
+    Scarce is our evening sacrifice begun,
+    When evil demons, lurid as the clouds
+    That gather round the dying orb of day,
+    Cluster in hideous troops, obscene and dread,
+    About our altars, casting far and near
+    Terrific shadows, while the sacred fire
+    Sheds a pale lustre o'er their ghostly shapes.
+
+KING.--I come to the rescue, I come.
+          [_Exit._
+
+
+[38] K�ma, the Hindoo Cupid, or god of love. He has five arrows, each
+tipped with the blossom of a flower, which pierce the heart through the
+five senses.
+
+[39] A marriage without the usual ceremonies is called G�ndharva. It was
+supposed to be the form of marriage prevalent among the nymphs of
+Indra's heaven.
+
+
+
+
+PRELUDE TO ACT FOURTH
+
+Scene.--The Garden of the Hermitage
+
+
+_Enter Priyamvad� and Anas�y� in the act of gathering flowers_.
+
+ANAS�Y�.--Although, dear Priyamvad�, it rejoices my heart to think that
+Sakoontal� has been happily united to a husband in every respect worthy
+of her, by the form of marriage prevalent among Indra's celestial
+musicians, nevertheless, I cannot help feeling somewhat uneasy in my
+mind.
+
+PRIYAMVAD�.--How so?
+
+ANAS�Y�.--You know that the pious King was gratefully dismissed by the
+hermits on the successful termination of their sacrificial rites. He has
+now returned to his capital, leaving Sakoontal� under our care; and it
+may be doubted whether, in the society of his royal consorts, he will
+not forget all that has taken place in this hermitage of ours.
+
+PRIYAMVAD�.--On that score be at ease. Persons of his noble nature are
+not so destitute of all honorable feeling. I confess, however, that
+there is one point about which I am rather anxious. What, think you,
+will father Kanwa say when he hears what has occurred?
+
+ANAS�Y�.--In my opinion, he will approve the marriage.
+
+PRIYAMVAD�.--What makes you think so?
+
+ANAS�Y�.--From the first, it was always his fixed purpose to bestow the
+maiden on a husband worthy of her; and since heaven has given her such a
+husband, his wishes have been realized without any trouble to himself.
+
+PRIYAMVAD� [_looking at the flower-basket_].--We have gathered flowers
+enough for the sacred offering, dear Anas�y�.
+
+ANAS�Y�.--Well, then, let us now gather more, that we may have wherewith
+to propitiate the guardian-deity of our dear Sakoontal�.
+
+PRIYAMVAD�.--By all means.          [_They continue gathering_.
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--Ho there! See you not that I am here?
+
+ANAS�Y� [_listening_].--That must be the voice of a guest announcing his
+arrival.
+
+PRIYAMVAD�.--Surely, Sakoontal� is not absent from the cottage.
+[_Aside_.] Her heart at least is absent, I fear.
+
+ANAS�Y�.--Come along, come along; we have gathered flowers enough.
+          [_They move away_.
+
+THE SAME VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--Woe to thee, maiden, for daring
+to slight a guest like me!
+    Shall I stand here unwelcomed; even I,
+    A very mine of penitential merit,
+    Worthy of all respect? Shalt thou, rash maid,
+    Thus set at nought the ever sacred ties
+    Of hospitality? and fix thy thoughts
+    Upon the cherished object of thy love,
+    While I am present? Thus I curse thee, then--
+    He, even he of whom thou thinkest, he
+    Shall think no more of thee; nor in his heart
+    Retain thine image. Vainly shalt thou strive
+    To waken his remembrance of the past;
+    He shall disown thee, even as the sot,
+    Roused from his midnight drunkenness, denies
+    The words he uttered in his revellings.
+
+PRIYAMVAD�.--Alas! alas! I fear a terrible misfortune has occurred.
+Sakoontal�, from absence of mind, must have offended some guest whom she
+was bound to treat with respect. [_Looking behind the scenes_.] Ah! yes;
+I see, and no less a person than the great sage Durvasas, who is known
+to be most irascible. He it is that has just cursed her, and is now
+retiring with hasty strides, trembling with passion, and looking as if
+nothing could turn him. His wrath is like a consuming fire.
+
+ANAS�Y�.--Go quickly, dear Priyamvad�, throw yourself at his feet, and
+persuade him to come back, while I prepare a propitiatory offering for
+him, with water and refreshments.
+
+PRIYAMVAD�.--I will.          [_Exit._
+
+ANAS�Y� [_advancing hastily a few steps and stumbling_].--Alas! alas!
+this comes of being in a hurry. My foot has slipped and my basket of
+flowers has fallen from my hand.
+          [_Stays to gather them up_.
+
+PRIYAMVAD� [_re�ntering_].--Well, dear Anas�y�, I have done my best; but
+what living being could succeed in pacifying such a cross-grained,
+ill-tempered old fellow? However, I managed to mollify him a little.
+
+ANAS�Y� [_smiling_].--Even a little was much for him. Say on.
+
+PRIYAMVAD�.--When he refused to turn back, I implored his forgiveness in
+these words: "Most venerable sage, pardon, I beseech you, this first
+offence of a young and inexperienced girl, who was ignorant of the
+respect due to your saintly character and exalted rank."
+
+ANAS�Y�.--And what did he reply?
+
+PRIYAMVAD�.--"My word must not be falsified; but at the sight of the
+ring of recognition the spell shall cease." So saying, he disappeared.
+
+ANAS�Y�.--Oh! then we may breathe again; for now I think of it, the King
+himself, at his departure, fastened on Sakoontal�'s finger, as a token
+of remembrance, a ring on which his own name was engraved. She has,
+therefore, a remedy for her misfortune at her own command.
+
+PRIYAMVAD�.--Come, dear Anas�y�, let us proceed with our religious
+duties.          [_They walk away_.
+
+PRIYAMVAD� [_looking off the stage_].--See, Anas�y�, there sits our dear
+friend, motionless as a statue, resting her face on her left hand, her
+whole mind absorbed in thinking of her absent husband. She can pay no
+attention to herself, much less to a stranger.
+
+ANAS�Y�.--Priyamvad�, let this affair never pass our lips. We must spare
+our dear friend's feelings. Her constitution is too delicate to bear
+much emotion.
+
+PRIYAMVAD�.--I agree with you. Who would think of watering a tender
+jasmine with hot water?
+
+
+
+
+ACT FOURTH
+
+Scene.--The Neighborhood of the Hermitage
+
+
+_Enter one of Kanwa's pupils, just arisen from his couch at the dawn of
+day_.
+
+PUPIL.--My master, the venerable Kanwa, who is but lately returned from
+his pilgrimage, has ordered me to ascertain how the time goes. I have
+therefore come into the open air to see if it be still dark. [_Walking
+and looking about_.] Oh! the dawn has already broken.
+    Lo! in one quarter of the sky, the Moon,
+    Lord of the herbs and night-expanding flowers,
+    Sinks towards his bed behind the western hills;
+    While in the east, preceded by the Dawn,
+    His blushing charioteer, the glorious Sun
+    Begins his course, and far into the gloom
+    Casts the first radiance of his orient beams,
+    Hail! co-eternal orbs, that rise to set,
+    And set to rise again; symbols divine
+    Of man's reverses, life's vicissitudes.
+And now,
+    While the round Moon withdraws his looming disc
+    Beneath the western sky, the full-blown flower
+    Of the night-loving lotus sheds her leaves
+    In sorrow for his loss, bequeathing nought
+    But the sweet memory of her loveliness
+    To my bereav�d sight: e'en as the bride
+    Disconsolately mourns her absent lord,
+    And yields her heart a prey to anxious grief.
+
+ANAS�Y� [_entering abruptly_].--Little as I know of the ways of the
+world, I cannot help thinking that King Dushyanta is treating Sakoontal�
+very improperly.
+
+PUPIL.--Well, I must let my revered preceptor know that it is time to
+offer the burnt oblation.          [_Exit._
+
+ANAS�Y�.--I am broad awake, but what shall I do? I have no energy to go
+about my usual occupations. My hands and feet seem to have lost their
+power. Well, Love has gained his object; and Love only is to blame for
+having induced our dear friend, in the innocence of her heart, to
+confide in such a perfidious man. Possibly, however, the imprecation of
+Durvasas may be already taking effect. Indeed, I cannot otherwise
+account for the King's strange conduct, in allowing so long a time to
+elapse without even a letter; and that, too, after so many promises and
+protestations. I cannot think what to do, unless we send him the ring
+which was to be the token of recognition. But which of these austere
+hermits could we ask to be the bearer of it? Then, again, Father Kanwa
+has just returned from his pilgrimage: and how am I to inform him of
+Sakoontal�'s marriage to King Dushyanta, and her expectation of being
+soon a mother? I never could bring myself to tell him, even if I felt
+that Sakoontal� had been in fault, which she certainly has not. What is
+to be done?
+
+PRIYAMVAD� [_entering; joyfully_].--Quick! quick! Anas�y�! come and
+assist in the joyful preparations for Sakoontal�'s departure to her
+husband's palace.
+
+ANAS�Y�.--My dear girl, what can you mean?
+
+PRIYAMVAD�.--Listen, now, and I will tell you all about it. I went just
+now to Sakoontal�, to inquire whether she had slept comfortably--
+
+ANAS�Y�.--Well, well; go on.
+
+PRIYAMVAD�.--She was sitting with her face bowed down to the very ground
+with shame, when Father Kanwa entered and, embracing her, of his own
+accord offered her his congratulations. "I give thee joy, my child," he
+said, "we have had an auspicious omen. The priest who offered the
+oblation dropped it into the very centre of the sacred fire, though
+thick smoke obstructed his vision. Henceforth thou wilt cease to be an
+object of compassion. This very day I purpose sending thee, under the
+charge of certain trusty hermits, to the King's palace; and shall
+deliver thee into the hands of thy husband, as I would commit knowledge
+to the keeping of a wise and faithful student."
+
+ANAS�Y�.--Who, then, informed the holy Father of what passed in his
+absence?
+
+PRIYAMVAD�.--As he was entering the sanctuary of the consecrated fire,
+an invisible being chanted a verse in celestial strains.
+
+ANAS�Y� [_with astonishment_].--Indeed! pray repeat it.
+
+PRIYAMVAD� [_repeats the verse_].--
+    Glows in thy daughter King Dushyanta's glory,
+      As in the sacred tree the mystic fire.
+    Let worlds rejoice to hear the welcome story;
+      And may the son immortalize the sire.
+
+ANAS�Y� [_embracing Priyamvad�_].--Oh, my dear Priyamvad�, what
+delightful news! I am pleased beyond measure; yet when I think that we
+are to lose our dear Sakoontal� this very day, a feeling of melancholy
+mingles with my joy.
+
+PRIYAMVAD�.--We shall find means of consoling ourselves after her
+departure. Let the dear creature only be made happy, at any cost.
+
+ANAS�Y�.--Yes, yes, Priyamvad�, it shall be so; and now to prepare our
+bridal array. I have always looked forward to this occasion, and some
+time since, I deposited a beautiful garland of Kesara flowers in a
+cocoa-nut box, and suspended it on a bough of yonder mango-tree. Be good
+enough to stretch out your hand and take it down, while I compound
+unguents and perfumes with this consecrated paste and these blades of
+sacred grass.
+
+PRIYAMVAD�.--Very well.
+
+          [_Exit Anas�y�. Priyamvad� takes down the flowers._
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--Gautam�, bid S�rngarava and the others
+hold themselves in readiness to escort Sakoontal�.
+
+PRIYAMVAD� [_listening_].--Quick, quick, Anas�y�! They are calling the
+hermits who are to go with Sakoontal� to Hastin�pur.
+
+ANAS�Y� [_re�ntering, with the perfumed unguents in her hand_].--Come
+along then, Priyamvad�; I am ready to go with you. [_They walk away_.
+
+PRIYAMVAD� [_looking_].--See! there sits Sakoontal�, her locks arranged
+even at this early hour of the morning. The holy women of the hermitage
+are congratulating her, and invoking blessings on her head, while they
+present her with wedding-gifts and offerings of consecrated wild-rice.
+Let us join them.          [_They approach_.
+
+_Sakoontal� is seen seated, with women surrounding her, occupied in the
+manner described_.
+
+FIRST WOMAN [_to Sakoontal�_].--My child, may'st thou receive the title
+of "Chief-queen," and may thy husband delight to honor thee above all
+others!
+
+SECOND WOMAN.--My child, may'st thou be the mother of a hero!
+
+THIRD WOMAN.--My child, may'st thou be highly honored by thy lord!
+
+[_Exeunt all the women, excepting Gautam�, after blessing Sakoontal�._
+
+PRIYAMVAD� AND ANAS�Y� [_approaching_].--Dear Sakoontal�, we are come to
+assist you at your toilet, and may a blessing attend it!
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--Welcome, dear friends, welcome. Sit down here.
+
+PRIYAMVAD� AND ANAS�Y� [_taking the baskets containing the bridal
+decorations, and sitting down_].--Now, then, dearest, prepare to let us
+dress you. We must first rub your limbs with these perfumed unguents.
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--I ought indeed to be grateful for your kind offices, now
+that I am so soon to be deprived of them. Dear, dear friends, perhaps I
+shall never be dressed by you again.          [_Bursts into tears_.
+
+PRIYAMVAD� AND ANAS�Y�.--Weep not, dearest, tears are out of season on
+such a happy occasion.
+
+          [_They wipe away her tears and begin to dress her_.
+
+PRIYAMVAD�.--Alas! these simple flowers and rude ornaments which our
+hermitage offers in abundance, do not set off your beauty as it
+deserves.
+
+          _Enter two young Hermits, bearing costly presents_.
+
+BOTH HERMITS.--Here are ornaments suitable for a queen.
+
+          [_The women look at them in astonishment_.
+
+GAUTAM�.--Why, N�rada, my son, whence came these?
+
+FIRST HERMIT.--You owe them to the devotion of Father Kanwa.
+
+GAUTAM�.--Did he create them by the power of his own mind?
+
+SECOND HERMIT.--Certainly not; but you shall hear. The venerable sage
+ordered us to collect flowers for Sakoontal� from the forest-trees; and
+we went to the wood for that purpose, when
+    Straightway depending from a neighboring tree
+    Appeared a robe of linen tissue, pure
+    And spotless as a moon-beam--mystic pledge
+    Of bridal happiness; another tree
+    Distilled a roseate dye wherewith to stain
+    The lady's feet; and other branches near
+    Glistened with rare and costly ornaments.
+    While, 'midst the leaves, the hands of forest-nymphs,
+    Vying in beauty with the opening buds,
+    Presented us with sylvan offerings.
+
+PRIYAMVAD� [_looking at Sakoontal�_].--The wood-nymphs have done you
+honor, indeed. This favor doubtless signifies that you are soon to be
+received as a happy wife into your husband's house, and are from this
+forward to become the partner of his royal fortunes.
+          [_Sakoontal� appears confused_.
+
+FIRST HERMIT.--Come, Gautama; Father Kanwa has finished his ablutions.
+Let us go and inform him of the favor we have received from the deities
+who preside over our trees.
+
+SECOND HERMIT.--By all means.          [_Exeunt._
+
+PRIYAMVAD� AND ANAS�Y�.--Alas! what are we to do? We are unused to such
+splendid decorations, and are at a loss how to arrange them. Our
+knowledge of painting must be our guide. We will dispose the ornaments
+as we have seen them in pictures.
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--Whatever pleases you, dear girls, will please me. I have
+perfect confidence in your taste. [_They commence dressing her_.
+
+          _Enter Kanwa, having just finished his ablutions_.
+
+KANWA.--This day my loved one leaves me, and my heart
+    Is heavy with its grief: the streams of sorrow
+    Choked at the source, repress my faltering voice.
+    I have no words to speak; mine eyes are dimmed
+    By the dark shadows of the thoughts that rise
+    Within my soul. If such the force of grief
+    In an old hermit parted from his nursling,
+    What anguish must the stricken parent feel--
+    Bereft forever of an only daughter?
+          [_Advances towards Sakoontal�_
+
+PRIYAMVAD� AND ANAS�Y�.--Now, dearest Sakoontal�, we have finished
+decorating you. You have only to put on the two linen mantles.
+           [_Sakoontal� rises and puts them on_.
+
+GAUTAM�.--Daughter, see, here comes thy foster-father; he is eager to
+fold thee in his arms; his eyes swim with tears of joy. Hasten to do him
+reverence.
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_reverently_].--My father, I salute you.
+
+KANWA.--My daughter,
+    May'st thou be highly honored by thy lord,
+    E'en as Yay�ti Sarmishth� adored!
+    And, as she bore him Puru; so may'st thou
+    Bring forth a son to whom the world shall bow!
+
+GAUTAM�.--Most venerable father, she accepts your benediction as if she
+already possessed the boon it confers.
+
+KANWA.--Now come this way, my child, and walk reverently round these
+sacrificial fires.          [_They all walk round_.
+
+KANWA [_repeats a prayer in the metre of the Rig-veda_].--
+    Holy flames, that gleam around
+    Every altar's hallowed ground;
+    Holy flames, whose frequent food
+    Is the consecrated wood,
+    And for whose encircling bed,
+    Sacred Kusa-grass is spread;
+    Holy flames, that waft to heaven
+    Sweet oblations daily given,
+    Mortal guilt to purge away;--
+    Hear, oh hear me, when I pray--
+    Purify my child this day!
+Now then, my daughter, set out on thy journey. [_Looking on one side_.]
+Where are thy attendants, S�rngarava and the others?
+
+YOUNG HERMIT [_entering_].--Here we are, most venerable father.
+
+KANWA.--Lead the way for thy sister.
+
+S�RNGARAVA.--Come, Sakoontal�, let us proceed.
+          [_All move away_.
+
+KANWA.--Hear me, ye trees that surround our hermitage!
+    Sakoontal� ne'er moistened in the stream
+    Her own parched lips, till she had fondly poured
+    Its purest water on your thirsty roots;
+    And oft, when she would fain have decked her hair
+    With your thick-clustering blossoms, in her love
+    She robbed you not e'en of a single flower.
+    Her highest joy was ever to behold
+    The early glory of your opening buds:
+    Oh, then, dismiss her with a kind farewell!
+    This very day she quits her father's home,
+    To seek the palace of her wedded lord.
+          [_The note of a K�il is heard_.
+    Hark! heard'st thou not the answer of the trees,
+    Our sylvan sisters, warbled in the note
+    Of the melodious K�il? they dismiss
+    Their dear Sakoontal� with loving wishes.
+
+VOICES [_in the air_].--
+    Fare thee well, journey pleasantly on amid streams
+    Where the lotuses bloom, and the sun's glowing beams
+    Never pierce the deep shade of the wide-spreading trees,
+    While gently around thee shall sport the cool breeze;
+    Then light be thy footsteps and easy thy tread,
+    Beneath thee shall carpets of lilies be spread.
+    Journey on to thy lord, let thy spirit be gay,
+    For the smiles of all Nature shall gladden thy way.
+          [_All listen with astonishment_.
+
+GAUTAM�.--Daughter! the nymphs of the wood, who love thee with the
+affection of a sister, dismiss thee with kind wishes for thy happiness.
+Take thou leave of them reverentially.
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_bowing respectfully and walking on. Aside to her
+friend_].--Eager as I am, dear Priyamvad�, to see my husband once more,
+yet my feet refuse to move, now that I am quitting forever the home of
+my girlhood.
+
+PRIYAMVAD�.--You are not the only one, dearest, to feel the bitterness
+of parting. As the time of separation approaches, the whole grove seems
+to share your anguish.
+    In sorrow for thy loss, the herd of deer
+    Forget to browse; the peacock on the lawn
+    Ceases its dance; the very trees around us
+    Shed their pale leaves, like tears, upon the ground.
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_recollecting herself_].--My father, let me, before I go,
+bid adieu to my pet jasmine, the Moonlight of the Grove. I love the
+plant almost as a sister.
+
+KANWA.--Yes, yes, my child, I remember thy sisterly affection for the
+creeper. Here it is on the right.
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_approaching the jasmine_],--My beloved jasmine, most
+brilliant of climbing plants, how sweet it is to see thee cling thus
+fondly to thy husband, the mango-tree; yet, prithee, turn thy twining
+arms for a moment in this direction to embrace thy sister; she is going
+far away, and may never see thee again.
+
+KANWA.--Daughter, the cherished purpose of my heart
+    Has ever been to wed thee to a spouse
+    That should be worthy of thee; such a spouse
+    Hast thou thyself, by thine own merits, won.
+    To him thou goest, and about his neck
+    Soon shalt thou cling confidingly, as now
+    Thy favorite jasmine twines its loving arms
+    Around the sturdy mango. Leave thou it
+    To its protector--e'en as I consign
+    Thee to thy lord, and henceforth from my mind
+    Banish all anxious thought on thy behalf.
+Proceed on thy journey, my child.
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_to Priyamvad� and Anas�y�_].--To you, my sweet companions,
+I leave it as a keepsake. Take charge of it when I am gone.
+
+PRIYAMVAD� AND ANAS�Y� [_bursting into tears_].--And to whose charge do
+you leave us, dearest? Who will care for us when you are gone?
+
+KANWA.--For shame, Anas�y�! dry your tears. Is this the way to cheer
+your friend at a time when she needs your support and consolation?
+          [_All move on_.
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--My father, see you there my pet deer, grazing close to the
+hermitage? She expects soon to fawn, and even now the weight of the
+little one she carries hinders her movements. Do not forget to send me
+word when she becomes a mother.
+
+KANWA.--I will not forget it.
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_feeling herself drawn back_].--What can this be, fastened
+to my dress?          [_Turns round_.
+
+KANWA.--My daughter,
+    It is the little fawn, thy foster-child.
+    Poor helpless orphan! it remembers well
+    How with a mother's tenderness and love
+    Thou didst protect it, and with grains of rice
+    From thine own hand didst daily nourish it;
+    And, ever and anon, when some sharp thorn
+    Had pierced its mouth, how gently thou didst tend
+    The bleeding wound, and pour in healing balm.
+    The grateful nursling clings to its protectress,
+    Mutely imploring leave to follow her.
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--My poor little fawn, dost thou ask to follow an unhappy
+woman who hesitates not to desert her companions? When thy mother died,
+soon after thy birth, I supplied her place, and reared thee with my own
+hand; and now that thy second mother is about to leave thee, who will
+care for thee? My father, be thou a mother to her. My child, go back,
+and be a daughter to my father.          [_Moves on, weeping_.
+
+KANWA.--Weep not, my daughter, check the gathering tear
+    That lurks beneath thine eyelid, ere it flow
+    And weaken thy resolve; be firm and true--
+    True to thyself and me; the path of life
+    Will lead o'er hill and plain, o'er rough and smooth,
+    And all must feel the steepness of the way;
+    Though rugged be thy course, press boldly on.
+
+S�RNGARAVA.--Venerable sire! the sacred precept is--"Accompany thy
+friend as far as the margin of the first stream." Here then, we are
+arrived at the border of a lake. It is time for you to give us your
+final instructions and return.
+
+KANWA.--Be it so; let us tarry for a moment under the shade of this
+fig-tree.          [_They do so_.
+
+KANWA [_aside_].--I must think of some appropriate message to send to
+his majesty King Dushyanta.          [_Reflects._
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_aside to Anas�y�_].--See, see, dear Anas�y�, the poor
+female Chakrav�ka-bird, whom cruel fate dooms to nightly separation
+from her mate, calls to him in mournful notes from the other side of the
+stream, though he is only hidden from her view by the spreading leaves
+of the water-lily. Her cry is so piteous that I could almost fancy she
+was lamenting her hard lot in intelligible words.
+
+ANAS�Y�.--Say not so, dearest.
+    Fond bird! though sorrow lengthen out her night
+    Of widowhood, yet with a cry of joy
+    She hails the morning light that brings her mate
+    Back to her side. The agony of parting
+    Would wound us like a sword, but that its edge
+    Is blunted by the hope of future meeting.
+
+KANWA.--S�rngarava, when you have introduced Sakoontal� into the
+presence of the King, you must give him this message from me.
+
+S�RNGARAVA.--Let me hear it, venerable father.
+
+KANWA.--This is it--
+    Most puissant prince! we here present before thee
+    One thou art bound to cherish and receive
+    As thine own wife; yea, even to enthrone
+    As thine own queen--worthy of equal love
+    With thine imperial consorts. So much, Sire,
+    We claim of thee as justice due to us,
+    In virtue of our holy character--
+    In virtue of thine honorable rank--
+    In virtue of the pure spontaneous love
+    That secretly grew up 'twixt thee and her,
+    Without consent or privity of us.
+    We ask no more--the rest we freely leave
+    To thy just feeling and to destiny.
+
+S�RNGARAVA.--A most suitable message. I will take care to deliver it
+correctly.
+
+KANWA.--And now, my child, a few words of advice for thee. We hermits,
+though we live secluded from the world, are not ignorant of worldly
+matters.
+
+S�RNGARAVA.--No, indeed. Wise men are conversant with all subjects.
+
+KANWA.--Listen, then, my daughter. When thou reachest thy husband's
+palace, and art admitted into his family,
+    Honor thy betters; ever be respectful
+    To those above thee; and, should others share
+    Thy husband's love, ne'er yield thyself a prey
+    To jealousy; but ever be a friend,
+    A loving friend, to those who rival thee
+    In his affections. Should thy wedded lord
+    Treat thee with harshness, thou must never be
+    Harsh in return, but patient and submissive.
+    Be to thy menials courteous, and to all
+    Placed under thee, considerate and kind:
+    Be never self-indulgent, but avoid
+    Excess in pleasure; and, when fortune smiles,
+    Be not puffed up. Thus to thy husband's house
+    Wilt thou a blessing prove, and not a curse.
+What thinks Gautam� of this advice?
+
+GAUTAM�.--An excellent compendium, truly, of every wife's duties! Lay it
+well to heart, my daughter.
+
+KANWA.--Come, my beloved child, one parting embrace for me and for thy
+companions, and then we leave thee.
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--My father, must Priyamvad� and Anas�y� really return with
+you? They are very dear to me.
+
+KANWA.--Yes, my child; they, too, in good time, will be given in
+marriage to suitable husbands. It would not be proper for them to
+accompany thee to such a public place. But Gautam� shall be thy
+companion.
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_embracing him_].--Removed from thy bosom, my beloved
+father, like a young tendril of the sandal-tree torn from its home in
+the western mountains,[40] how shall I be able to support life in a
+foreign soil?
+
+KANWA.--Daughter, thy fears are groundless:--
+    Soon shall thy lord prefer thee to the rank
+    Of his own consort; and unnumbered cares
+    Befitting his imperial dignity
+    Shall constantly engross thee. Then the bliss
+    Of bearing him a son--a noble boy,
+    Bright as the day-star--shall transport thy soul
+    With new delights, and little shalt thou reck
+    Of the light sorrow that afflicts thee now
+    At parting from thy father and thy friends.
+
+          [_Sakoontal� throws herself at her foster-father's feet_.
+
+KANWA.--Blessings on thee, my child! May all my hopes of thee be
+realized!
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_approaching her friends_].--Come, my two loved companions,
+embrace me--both of you together.
+
+PRIYAMVAD� AND ANAS�Y� [_embracing her_].--Dear Sakoontal�, remember, if
+the King should by any chance be slow in recognizing you, you have only
+to show him this ring, on which his own name is engraved.
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--The bare thought of it puts me in a tremor.
+
+PRIYAMVAD� AND ANAS�Y�.--There is no real cause for fear, dearest.
+Excessive affection is too apt to suspect evil where none exists.
+
+S�RNGARAVA.--Come, lady, we must hasten on. The sun is rising in the
+heavens.
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_looking towards the hermitage_].--Dear father, when shall I
+ever see this hallowed grove again?
+
+KANWA.--I will tell thee; listen--
+    When thou hast passed a long and blissful life
+    As King Dushyanta's queen, and jointly shared
+    With all the earth his ever-watchful care;
+    And hast beheld thine own heroic son,
+    Matchless in arms, united to a spouse
+    In happy wedlock; when his aged sire,
+    Thy faithful husband, hath to him resigned
+    The helm of state; then, weary of the world,
+    Together with Dushyanta thou shalt seek
+    The calm seclusion of thy former home:--
+    There amid holy scenes to be at peace,
+    Till thy pure spirit gain its last release.
+
+GAUTAM�.--Come, my child, the favorable time for our journey is fast
+passing. Let thy father return. Venerable Sire, be thou the first to
+move homewards, or these last words will never end.
+
+KANWA.--Daughter, detain me no longer. My religious duties must not be
+interrupted.
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_again embracing her foster-father_].--Beloved father, thy
+frame is much enfeebled by penitential exercises. Do not, oh! do not,
+allow thyself to sorrow too much on my account.
+
+KANWA [_sighing_].--How, O my child, shall my bereav�d heart
+    Forget its bitterness, when, day by day,
+    Full in my sight shall grow the tender plants
+    Reared by thy care, or sprung from hallowed grain
+    Which thy loved hands have strewn around the door--
+    A frequent offering to our household gods?
+Go, my daughter, and may thy journey be prosperous.
+
+          [_Exit Sakoontal� with her escort_.
+
+PRIYAMVAD� AND ANAS�Y� [_gazing after Sakoontal�_].--Alas! alas! she is
+gone, and now the trees hide our darling from our view.
+
+KANWA [_sighing_].--Well, Anas�y�, your sister has departed. Moderate
+your grief, both of you, and follow me. I go back to the hermitage.
+
+PRIYAMVAD� AND ANAS�Y�.--Holy father, the sacred grove will be a desert
+without Sakoontal�. How can we ever return to it?
+
+KANWA.--It is natural enough that your affection should make you view it
+in this light. [_Walking pensively on_.] As for me, I am quite surprised
+at myself. Now that I have fairly dismissed her to her husband's house,
+my mind is easy: for indeed,
+    A daughter is a loan--a precious jewel
+    Lent to a parent till her husband claim her.
+    And now that to her rightful lord and master
+    I have delivered her, my burdened soul
+    Is lightened, and I seem to breathe more freely.
+
+          [_Exeunt._
+
+
+[40] The sandal-tree is a large kind of myrtle, with pointed leaves. The
+wood affords many highly esteemed perfumes and is celebrated for its
+delicious scent. It is chiefly found on the slopes of the Malay
+mountains or Western Ghants, on the Malabar coast.
+
+
+
+
+ACT FIFTH
+
+Scene.--A Room in the Palace
+
+
+_The King Dushyanta and the Jester M�thavya are discovered seated_.
+
+M�THAVYA [_listening_].--Hark! my dear friend, listen a minute, and you
+will hear sweet sounds proceeding from the music-room. Someone is
+singing a charming air. Who can it be? Oh! I know. The queen Hansapadik�
+is practising her notes, that she may greet you with a new song.
+
+KING.--Hush! Let me listen.
+
+A VOICE [_sings behind the scenes_].--
+    How often hither didst thou rove,
+    Sweet bee, to kiss the mango's cheek;
+    Oh! leave not, then, thy early love,
+    The lily's honeyed lip to seek.
+
+KING.--A most impassioned strain, truly!
+
+M�THAVYA.--Do you understand the meaning of the words?
+
+KING [_smiling_].--She means to reprove me, because I once paid her
+great attention, and have lately deserted her for the queen Vasumat�.
+Go, my dear fellow, and tell Hansapadik� from me that I take her
+delicate reproof as it is intended.
+
+M�THAVYA.--Very well. [_Rising from his seat_.] But stay--I don't much
+relish being sent to bear the brunt of her jealousy. The chances are
+that she will have me seized by the hair of the head and beaten to a
+jelly. I would as soon expose myself, after a vow of celibacy, to the
+seductions of a lovely nymph, as encounter the fury of a jealous woman.
+
+KING.--Go, go; you can disarm her wrath by a civil speech; but give her
+my message.
+
+M�THAVYA.--What must be must be, I suppose.          [_Exit._
+
+KING [_aside_].--Strange! that song has filled me with a most peculiar
+sensation. A melancholy feeling has come over me, and I seem to yearn
+after some long-forgotten object of affection. Singular, indeed! but,
+    Not seldom in our happy hours of ease,
+    When thought is still, the sight of some fair form,
+    Or mournful fall of music breathing low,
+    Will stir strange fancies, thrilling all the soul
+    With a mysterious sadness, and a sense
+    Of vague yet earnest longing. Can it be
+    That the dim memory of events long past,
+    Or friendships formed in other states of being,
+    Flits like a passing shadow o'er the spirit?
+          [_Remains pensive and sad_.
+
+          _Enter the Chamberlain_.
+
+CHAMBERLAIN.--Alas! to what an advanced period of life have I attained!
+    Even this wand betrays the lapse of years;
+    In youthful days 'twas but a useless badge
+    And symbol of my office; now it serves
+    As a support to prop my tottering steps.
+
+Ah me! I feel very unwilling to announce to the King that a deputation
+of young hermits from the sage Kanwa has arrived, and craves an
+immediate audience. Certainly, his majesty ought not to neglect a matter
+of sacred duty, yet I hardly like to trouble him when he has just risen
+from the judgment-seat. Well, well; a monarch's business is to sustain
+the world, and he must not expect much repose; because--
+
+    Onward, forever onward, in his car
+    The unwearied Sun pursues his daily course,
+    Nor tarries to unyoke his glittering steeds.
+    And ever moving speeds the rushing Wind
+    Through boundless space, filling the universe
+    With his life-giving breezes. Day and night,
+    The King of Serpents on his thousand heads
+    Upholds the incumbent earth; and even so,
+    Unceasing toil is aye the lot of kings,
+    Who, in return, draw nurture from their subjects.
+
+I will therefore deliver my message. [_Walking on and looking about_.]
+Ah! here comes the King:--
+
+    His subjects are his children; through the day,
+    Like a fond father, to supply their wants,
+    Incessantly he labors; wearied now,
+    The monarch seeks seclusion and repose--
+    E'en as the prince of elephants defies
+    The sun's fierce heat, and leads the fainting herd
+    To verdant pastures, ere his wayworn limbs
+    He yields to rest beneath the cooling shade.
+
+[_Approaching_.] Victory to the King! So please your majesty, some
+hermits who live in a forest near the Snowy Mountains have arrived here,
+bringing certain women with them. They have a message to deliver from
+the sage Kanwa, and desire an audience. I await your Majesty's commands.
+
+KING [_respectfully_].--A message from the sage Kanwa, did you say?
+
+CHAMBERLAIN.--Even so, my liege.
+
+KING.--Tell my domestic priest, Somar�ta, to receive the hermits with
+due honor, according to the prescribed form. He may then himself
+introduce them into my presence. I will await them in a place suitable
+for the reception of such holy guests.
+
+CHAMBERLAIN.--Your Majesty's commands shall be obeyed. [_Exit._
+
+KING [_rising and addressing the Warder_].--Vetravat�, lead the way to
+the chamber of the consecrated fire.
+
+WARDER.--This way, Sire.
+
+KING [_walking on, with the air of one oppressed by the cares of
+government_].--People are generally contented and happy when they have
+gained their desires; but kings have no sooner attained the object of
+their aspirations than all their troubles begin.
+    'Tis a fond thought that to attain the end
+    And object of ambition is to rest;
+    Success doth only mitigate the fever
+    Of anxious expectation; soon the fear
+    Of losing what we have, the constant care
+    Of guarding it doth weary. Ceaseless toil
+    Must be the lot of him who with his hands
+    Supports the canopy that shields his subjects.
+
+Two HERALDS [_behind the scenes_].--May the King be victorious!
+
+FIRST HERALD.--Honor to him who labors day by day
+    For the world's weal, forgetful of his own.
+    Like some tall tree that with its stately head
+    Endures the solar beam, while underneath
+    It yields refreshing shelter to the weary.
+
+SECOND HERALD.--Let but the monarch wield his threatening rod
+    And e'en the guilty tremble; at his voice
+    The rebel spirit cowers; his grateful subjects
+    Acknowledge him their guardian; rich and poor
+    Hail him a faithful friend, a loving kinsman.
+
+KING.--Weary as I was before, this complimentary address has refreshed
+me.          [_Walks on_.
+
+WARDER.--Here is the terrace of the hallowed fire-chamber, and yonder
+stands the cow that yields the milk for the oblations. The sacred
+enclosure has been recently purified, and looks clean and beautiful.
+Ascend, Sire.
+
+KING [_leans on the shoulders of his attendants, and ascends_].
+Vetravat�, what can possibly be the message that the venerable Kanwa has
+sent me by these hermits?--
+    Perchance their sacred rites have been disturbed
+    By demons, or some evil has befallen
+    The innocent herds, their favorites, that graze
+    Within the precincts of the hermitage;
+    Or haply, through my sins, some withering blight
+    Has nipped the creeping plants that spread their arms
+    Around the hallowed grove. Such troubled thoughts
+    Crowd through my mind, and fill me with misgiving.
+
+WARDER.--If you ask my opinion, Sire, I think the hermits merely wish to
+take an opportunity of testifying their loyalty, and are therefore come
+to offer homage to your Majesty.
+
+_Enter the Hermits, leading Sakoontal�, attended by Gautam�; and, in
+advance of them, the Chamberlain and the domestic Priest._
+
+CHAMBERLAIN.--This way, reverend sirs, this way.
+
+S�RNGARAVA.--O S�radwata,
+    'Tis true the monarch lacks no royal grace,
+    Nor ever swerves from justice; true, his people,
+    Yea such as in life's humblest walks are found,
+    Refrain from evil courses; still to me,
+    A lonely hermit reared in solitude,
+    This throng appears bewildering, and methinks
+    I look upon a burning house, whose inmates
+    Are running to and fro in wild dismay.
+
+S�RADWATA.--It is natural that the first sight of the King's capital
+should affect you in this manner; my own sensations are very similar.
+    As one just bathed beholds the man polluted;
+    As one late purified, the yet impure:--
+    As one awake looks on the yet unwakened;
+    Or as the freeman gazes on the thrall,
+    So I regard this crowd of pleasure-seekers.
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_feeling a quivering sensation in her right eyelid, and
+suspecting a bad omen_],--Alas! what means this throbbing of my right
+eyelid?
+
+GAUTAM�.--Heaven avert the evil omen, my child! May the guardian deities
+of thy husband's family convert it into a sign of good fortune! [_Walks
+on_.
+
+PRIEST [_pointing to the King_].--Most reverend sirs, there stands the
+protector of the four classes of the people; the guardian of the four
+orders of the priesthood. He has just left the judgment-seat, and is
+waiting for you. Behold him!
+
+S�RNGARAVA.--Great Br�hman, we are happy in thinking that the King's
+power is exerted for the protection of all classes of his subjects. We
+have not come as petitioners--we have the fullest confidence in the
+generosity of his nature.
+    The loftiest trees bend humbly to the ground
+    Beneath the teeming burden of their fruit;
+    High in the vernal sky the pregnant clouds
+    Suspend their stately course, and hanging low,
+    Scatter their sparkling treasures o'er the earth:--
+    And such is true benevolence; the good
+    Are never rendered arrogant by riches.
+
+WARDER.--So please your Majesty, I judge from the placid countenance of
+the hermits that they have no alarming message to deliver.
+
+KING [_looking at Sakoontal�_].--But the lady there--
+    Who can she be, whose form of matchless grace
+    Is half concealed beneath her flowing veil?
+    Among the sombre hermits she appears
+    Like a fresh bud 'mid sear and yellow leaves.
+
+WARDER.--So please your Majesty, my curiosity is also roused, but no
+conjecture occurs to my mind. This at least is certain, that she
+deserves to be looked at more closely.
+
+KING.--True; but it is not right to gaze at another man's wife.
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_placing her hand on her bosom. Aside_].--O my heart, why
+this throbbing? Remember thy lord's affection, and take courage.
+
+PRIEST [_advancing_].--These holy men have been received with all due
+honor. One of them has now a message to deliver from his spiritual
+superior. Will your Majesty deign to hear it?
+
+KING.--I am all attention.
+
+HERMITS [_extending their hands_].--Victory to the King!
+
+KING.--Accept my respectful greeting.
+
+HERMITS.--May the desires of your soul be accomplished!
+
+KING.--I trust no one is molesting you in the prosecution of your
+religious rites.
+
+HERMITS.--Who dares disturb our penitential rites
+    When thou art our protector? Can the night
+    Prevail to cast her shadows o'er the earth
+    While the sun's beams irradiate the sky?
+
+KING.--Such, indeed, is the very meaning of my title--"Defender of the
+Just." I trust the venerable Kanwa is in good health. The world is
+interested in his well-being.
+
+HERMITS.--Holy men have health and prosperity in their own power. He
+bade us greet your Majesty, and, after kind inquiries, deliver this
+message.
+
+KING.--Let me hear his commands.
+
+S�RNGARAVA.--He bade us say that he feels happy in giving his sanction
+to the marriage which your Majesty contracted with this lady, his
+daughter, privately and by mutual agreement. Because
+    By us thou art esteemed the most illustrious
+    Of noble husbands; and Sakoontal�
+    Virtue herself in human form revealed.
+    Great Brahm� hath in equal yoke united
+    A bride unto a husband worthy of her:--
+    Henceforth let none make blasphemous complaint
+    That he is pleased with ill-assorted unions.
+
+Since, therefore, she expects soon to be the mother of thy child,
+receive her into thy palace, that she may perform, in conjunction with
+thee, the ceremonies prescribed by religion on such an occasion.
+
+GAUTAM�.--So please your Majesty, I would add a few words: but why
+should I intrude my sentiments when an opportunity of speaking my mind
+has never been allowed me?
+    She took no counsel with her kindred; thou
+    Didst not confer with thine, but all alone
+    Didst solemnize thy nuptials with thy wife.
+    Together, then, hold converse; let us leave you.
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_aside_].--Ah! how I tremble for my lord's reply.
+
+KING.--What strange proposal is this?
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_aside_].--His words are fire to me.
+
+S�RNGARAVA.--What do I hear? Dost thou, then, hesitate? Monarch, thou
+art well acquainted with the ways of the world, and knowest that
+    A wife, however virtuous and discreet,
+    If she live separate from her wedded lord,
+    Though under shelter of her parent's roof,
+    Is mark for vile suspicion. Let her dwell
+    Beside her husband, though he hold her not
+    In his affection. So her kinsmen will it.
+
+KING.--Do you really mean to assert that I ever married this lady?
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_despondingly. Aside_].--O my heart, thy worst misgivings
+are confirmed.
+
+S�RNGARAVA.--Is it becoming in a monarch to depart from the rules of
+justice, because he repents of his engagements?
+
+KING.--I cannot answer a question which is based on a mere fabrication.
+
+
+S�RNGARAVA.--Such inconstancy is fortunately not common, excepting in
+men intoxicated by power.
+
+KING.--Is that remark aimed at me?
+
+GAUTAM�.--Be not ashamed, my daughter. Let me remove thy veil for a
+little space. Thy husband will then recognize thee. [_Removes her veil_.
+
+KING [_gazing at Sakoontal�. Aside_].--What charms are here revealed
+before mine eyes!
+    Truly no blemish mars the symmetry
+    Of that fair form; yet can I ne'er believe
+    She is my wedded wife; and like a bee
+    That circles round the flower whose nectared cup
+    Teems with the dew of morning, I must pause
+    Ere eagerly I taste the proffered sweetness.
+          [_Remains wrapped in-thought._
+
+WARDER.--How admirably does our royal master's behavior prove his regard
+for justice! Who else would hesitate for a moment when good fortune
+offered for his acceptance a form of such rare beauty?
+
+S�RNGARAVA.--Great King, why art thou silent?
+
+KING.--Holy men, I have revolved the matter in my mind; but the more I
+think of it, the less able am I to recollect that I ever contracted an
+alliance with this lady. What answer, then, can I possibly give you when
+I do not believe myself to be her husband, and I plainly see that she is
+soon to become a mother?
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_aside_].--Woe! woe! Is our very marriage to be called in
+question by my own husband? Ah me! is this to be the end of all my
+bright visions of wedded happiness?
+
+S�RNGARAVA.--Beware!
+    Beware how thou insult the holy Sage!
+    Remember how he generously allowed
+    Thy secret union with his foster-child;
+    And how, when thou didst rob him of his treasure,
+    He sought to furnish thee excuse, when rather
+    He should have cursed thee for a ravisher.
+
+S�RADWATA.--S�rngarava, speak to him no more. Sakoontal�, our part is
+performed; we have said all we had to say, and the King has replied in
+the manner thou hast heard. It is now thy turn to give him convincing
+evidence of thy marriage.
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_aside_].--Since his feeling towards me has undergone a
+complete revolution, what will it avail to revive old recollections? One
+thing is clear--I shall soon have to mourn my own widowhood. [_Aloud_.]
+My revered husband--[_Stops short_.] But no--I dare not address thee by
+this title, since thou hast refused to acknowledge our union. Noble
+descendant of Puru! It is not worthy of thee to betray an
+innocent-minded girl, and disown her in such terms, after having so
+lately and so solemnly plighted thy vows to her in the hermitage.
+
+KING [_stopping his ears_].--I will hear no more. Be such a crime far
+from my thoughts!
+    What evil spirit can possess thee, lady,
+    That thou dost seek to sully my good name
+    By base aspersions? like a swollen torrent,
+    That, leaping from its narrow bed, overthrows
+    The tree upon its bank, and strives to blend
+    Its turbid waters with the crystal stream?
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--If, then, thou really believest me to be the wife of
+another, and thy present conduct proceeds from some cloud that obscures
+thy recollection, I will easily convince thee by this token.
+
+KING.--An excellent idea!
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_feeling for the ring_].--Alas! alas! woe is me! There is no
+ring on my finger!
+          [_Looks with anguish at Gautam�_.
+
+GAUTAM�.--The ring must have slipped off when thou wast in the act of
+offering homage to the holy water of Sach�'s sacred pool, near
+Sakr�vat�ra.
+
+KING [_smiling_].--People may well talk of the readiness of woman's
+invention! Here is an instance of it.
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--Say, rather, of the omnipotence of fate. I will mention
+another circumstance, which may yet convince thee.
+
+KING.--By all means let me hear it at once.
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--One day, while we were seated in a jasmine bower, thou
+didst pour into the hollow of thine hand some water, sprinkled by a
+recent shower in the cup of a lotus blossom--
+
+KING.--I am listening; proceed.
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--At that instant, my adopted child, the little fawn, with
+soft, long eyes, came running towards us. Upon which, before tasting the
+water thyself, thou didst kindly offer some to the little creature,
+saying fondly--"Drink first, gentle fawn." But she could not be induced
+to drink from the hand of a stranger; though immediately afterwards,
+when I took the water in my own hand, she drank with perfect confidence.
+Then, with a smile, thou didst say--"Every creature confides naturally
+in its own kind. You are both inhabitants of the same forest, and have
+learnt to trust each other."
+
+KING.--Voluptuaries may allow themselves to be seduced from the path of
+duty by falsehoods such as these, expressed in honeyed words.
+
+GAUTAM�.--Speak not thus, illustrious Prince. This lady was brought up
+in a hermitage, and has never learnt deceit.
+
+KING.--Holy matron,
+    E'en in untutored brutes, the female sex
+    Is marked by inborn subtlety--much more
+    In beings gifted with intelligence.
+    The wily K�il, ere towards the sky
+    She wings her sportive flight, commits her eggs
+    To other nests, and artfully consigns
+    The rearing of her little ones to strangers.
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_angrily_].--Dishonorable man, thou judgest of others by
+thine own evil heart. Thou, at least, art unrivalled in perfidy, and
+standest alone--a base deceiver in the garb of virtue and religion--like
+a deep pit whose yawning mouth is concealed by smiling flowers.
+
+KING [_aside_].--Her anger, at any rate, appears genuine, and makes me
+almost doubt whether I am in the right. For, indeed,
+    When I had vainly searched my memory,
+    And so with stern severity denied
+    The fabled story of our secret loves,
+    Her brows, that met before in graceful curves,
+    Like the arched weapon of the god of love,
+    Seemed by her frown dissevered; while the fire
+    Of sudden anger kindled in her eyes.
+
+[_Aloud_.] My good lady, Dushyanta's character is well-known to all. I
+comprehend not your meaning.
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--Well do I deserve to be thought a harlot for having, in the
+innocence of my heart, and out of the confidence I reposed in a Prince
+of Puru's race, intrusted my honor to a man whose mouth distils honey,
+while his heart is full of poison.
+          [_Covers her face with her mantle, and bursts into tears_.
+
+S�RNGARAVA.--Thus is it that burning remorse must ever follow rash
+actions which might have been avoided, and for which one has only one's
+self to blame.
+    Not hastily should marriage be contracted,
+    And specially in secret. Many a time,
+    In hearts that know not each the other's fancies,
+    Fond love is changed into most bitter hate.
+
+KING.--How now! Do you give credence to this woman rather than to me,
+that you heap such accusations on me?
+
+S�RNGARAVA [_sarcastically_].--That would be too absurd, certainly. You
+have heard the proverb--
+    Hold in contempt the innocent words of those
+    Who from their infancy have known no guile:--
+    But trust the treacherous counsels of the man
+    Who makes a very science of deceit.
+
+KING.--Most veracious Br�hman, grant that you are in the right, what end
+would be gained by betraying this lady?
+
+S�RNGARAVA.--Ruin.
+
+KING.--No one will believe that a Prince of Puru's race would seek to
+ruin others or himself.
+
+S�RADWATA.--This altercation is idle, S�rngarava. We have executed the
+commission of our preceptor; come, let us return. [_To the King_.
+    Sakoontal� is certainly thy bride;
+    Receive her or reject her, she is thine.
+    Do with her, King, according to thy pleasure--
+    The husband o'er the wife is absolute.
+Go on before us, Gautam�.          [_They move away_.
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--What! is it not enough to have been betrayed by this
+perfidious man? Must you also forsake me, regardless of my tears and
+lamentations?
+          [_Attempts to follow them_.
+
+GAUTAM� [_stopping_].--My son S�rngarava, see, Sakoontal� is following
+us, and with tears implores us not to leave her. Alas! poor child, what
+will she do here with a cruel husband who casts her from him?
+
+S�RNGARAVA [_turning angrily towards her_].--Wilful woman, dost thou
+seek to be independent of thy lord?
+          [_Sakoontal� trembles with fear_.
+
+S�RNGARAVA.--Sakoontal�!
+    If thou art really what the King proclaims thee,
+    How can thy father e'er receive thee back
+    Into his house and home? but, if thy conscience
+    Be witness to thy purity of soul,
+    E'en should thy husband to a handmaid's lot
+    Condemn thee, thou may'st cheerfully endure it,
+    When ranked among the number of his household.
+
+Thy duty, therefore, is to stay. As for us, we must return immediately.
+
+KING.--Deceive not the lady, my good hermit, by any such expectations.
+    The moon expands the lotus of the night,
+    The rising sun awakes the lily; each
+    Is with his own contented. Even so
+    The virtuous man is master of his passions,
+    And from another's wife averts his gaze.
+
+S�RNGARAVA.--Since thy union with another woman has rendered thee
+oblivious of thy marriage with Sakoontal�, whence this fear of losing
+thy character for constancy and virtue?
+
+KING [_to the Priest_],--You must counsel me, revered sir, as to my
+course of action. Which of the two evils involves the greater or less
+sin?
+    Whether by some dark veil my mind be clouded,
+    Or this designing woman speak untruly,
+    I know not. Tell me, must I rather be
+    The base disowner of my wedded wife,
+    Or the defiling and defiled adulterer?
+
+PRIEST [_after deliberation_].--You must take an intermediate course.
+
+KING.--What course, revered sir? Tell me at once.
+
+PRIEST.--I will provide an asylum for the lady in my own house until the
+birth of her child; and my reason, if you ask me, is this. Soothsayers
+have predicted that your first-born will have universal dominion. Now,
+if the hermit's daughter bring forth a son with the discus or mark of
+empire in the lines of his hand, you must admit her immediately into
+your royal apartments with great rejoicings; if not, then determine to
+send her back as soon as possible to her father.
+
+KING.--I bow to the decision of my spiritual adviser.
+
+PRIEST.--Daughter, follow me.
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--O divine earth, open and receive me into thy bosom!
+
+[_Exit Sakoontal� weeping, with the Priest and the Hermits. The King
+remains absorbed in thinking of her, though the curse still clouds his
+recollection_.
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--A miracle! a miracle!
+
+KING [_listening_].--What has happened now?
+
+PRIEST [_entering with an air of astonishment_].--Great Prince, a
+stupendous prodigy has just occurred!
+
+KING.--What is it?
+
+PRIEST.--May it please your Majesty, so soon as Kanwa's pupils had
+departed,
+    Sakoontal�, her eyes all bathed in tears,
+    With outstretched arms bewailed her cruel fate--
+
+KING.--Well, well, what happened then?
+
+PRIEST.--When suddenly a shining apparition, In female shape, descended
+from the skies, Near the nymphs' pool, and bore her up to heaven.
+
+          [_All remain motionless with astonishment_.
+
+KING.--My good priest, from the very first I declined having anything to
+do with this matter. It is now all over, and we can never, by our
+conjectures, unravel the mystery; let it rest; go, seek repose.
+
+PRIEST [_looking at the King_].--Be it so. Victory to the King! [_Exit._
+
+KING.--Vetravat�, I am tired out; lead the way to the bed-chamber.
+
+WARDER.--This way, Sire. [_They move away_.
+
+KING.--Do what I will, I cannot call to mind
+    That I did e'er espouse the sage's daughter--
+    Therefore I have disowned her; yet 'tis strange
+    How painfully my agitated heart
+    Bears witness to the truth of her assertion,
+    And makes me credit her against my judgment.
+          [_Exeunt._
+
+
+
+
+PRELUDE TO ACT SIXTH
+
+Scene.--A Street
+
+
+_Enter the King's brother-in-law as Superintendent of the city police;
+and with him two Constables, dragging a poor fisherman, who has his
+hands tied behind his back_.
+
+BOTH THE CONSTABLES [_striking the prisoner_].--Take that for a rascally
+thief that you are; and now tell us, sirrah, where you found this
+ring--aye, the King's own signet-ring. See, here is the royal name
+engraved on the setting of the jewel.
+
+FISHERMAN [_with a gesture of alarm_].--Mercy! kind sirs, mercy! I did
+not steal it; indeed I did not.
+
+FIRST CONSTABLE.--Oh! then I suppose the King took you for some fine
+Br�hman, and made you a present of it?
+
+FISHERMAN.--Only hear me. I am but a poor fisherman, living at
+Sakr�vat�ra------
+
+SECOND CONSTABLE.--Scoundrel, who ever asked you, pray, for a history of
+your birth and parentage?
+
+SUPERINTENDENT [_to one of the Constables_].--S�chaka, let the fellow
+tell his own story from the beginning. Don't interrupt him.
+
+BOTH CONSTABLES.--As you please, master. Go on, then, sirrah, and say
+what you've got to say.
+
+FISHERMAN.--You see in me a poor man, who supports his family by
+catching fish with nets, hooks, and the like.
+
+SUPERINTENDENT [_laughing_].--A most refined occupation, certainly!
+
+FISHERMAN.--Blame me not for it, master.
+    The father's occupation, though despised
+    By others, casts no shame upon the son,
+    And he should not forsake it. Is the priest
+    Who kills the animal for sacrifice
+    Therefore deemed cruel? Sure a lowborn man
+    May, though a fisherman, be tender-hearted.
+
+SUPERINTENDENT.--Well, well; go on with your story.
+
+FISHERMAN.--One day I was cutting open a large carp I had just hooked,
+when the sparkle of a jewel caught my eye, and what should I find in the
+fish's maw but that ring! Soon afterwards, when I was offering it for
+sale, I was seized by your honors. Now you know everything. Whether you
+kill me, or whether you let me go, this is the true account of how the
+ring came into my possession.
+
+SUPERINTENDENT [_to one of the Constables_].--Well, J�nuka, the rascal
+emits such a fishy odor that I have no doubt of his being a fisherman;
+but we must inquire a little more closely into this queer story about
+the finding of the ring. Come, we'll take him before the King's
+household.
+
+BOTH CONSTABLES.--Very good, master. Get on with you, you cutpurse.
+          [_All move on_.
+
+SUPERINTENDENT.--Now attend, S�chaka; keep you guard here at the gate;
+and hark ye, sirrahs, take good care your prisoner does not escape,
+while I go in and lay the whole story of the discovery of this ring
+before the King in person. I will soon return and let you know his
+commands.
+
+CONSTABLE.--Go in, master, by all means; and may you find favor in the
+King's sight!
+          [_Exit Superintendent_.
+
+FIRST CONSTABLE [_after an interval_].--I say, J�nuka, the
+Superintendent is a long time away.
+
+SECOND CONSTABLE.--Aye, aye; kings are not to be got at so easily. Folks
+must bide the proper opportunity.
+
+FIRST CONSTABLE.--J�nuka, my fingers itch to strike the first blow at
+this royal victim here. We must kill him with all the honors, you know.
+I long to begin binding the flowers round his head.
+          [_Pretends to strike a blow at the fisherman_.
+
+FISHERMAN.--Your honor surely will not put an innocent man to a cruel
+death.
+
+SECOND CONSTABLE [_looking_].--There's our Superintendent at last, I
+declare. See, he is coming towards us with a paper in his hand. We shall
+soon know the King's command; so prepare, my fine fellow, either to
+become food for the vultures, or to make acquaintance with some hungry
+cur.
+
+SUPERINTENDENT [_entering_].--Ho, there, S�chaka! set the fisherman at
+liberty, I tell you. His story about the ring is all correct.
+
+S�CHAKA.--Oh! very good, sir; as you please.
+
+SECOND CONSTABLE.--The fellow had one foot in hell, and now here he is
+in the land of the living.          [_Releases him_.
+
+FISHERMAN [_bowing to the Superintendent_].--Now, master, what think you
+of my way of getting a livelihood?
+
+SUPERINTENDENT.--Here, my good man, the King desired me to present you
+with this purse. It contains a sum of money equal to the full value of
+the ring.
+          [_Gives him the money_.
+
+FISHERMAN [_taking it and bowing_].--His Majesty does me too great
+honor.
+
+S�CHAKA.--You may well say so. He might as well have taken you from the
+gallows to seat you on his state elephant.
+
+J�NUKA.--Master, the King must value the ring very highly, or he would
+never have sent such a sum of money to this ragamuffin.
+
+SUPERINTENDENT.--I don't think he prizes it as a costly jewel so much as
+a memorial of some person he tenderly loves. The moment it was shown to
+him he became much agitated, though in general he conceals his feelings.
+
+S�CHAKA.--Then you must have done a great service------
+
+J�NUKA.--Yes, to this husband of a fish-wife.
+          [_Looks enviously at the fisherman_.
+
+FISHERMAN.--Here's half the money for you, my masters. It will serve to
+purchase the flowers you spoke of, if not to buy me your good-will.
+
+J�NUKA.--Well, now, that's just as it should be.
+
+SUPERINTENDENT.--My good fisherman, you are an excellent fellow, and I
+begin to feel quite a regard for you. Let us seal our first friendship
+over a glass of good liquor. Come along to the next wine-shop and we'll
+drink your health.
+
+ALL.--By all means.
+          [_Exeunt._
+
+
+
+
+ACT SIXTH
+
+Scene.--The Garden of the Palace
+
+
+_The nymph S�numat� is seen descending in a celestial car_.
+
+S�NUMAT�.--Behold me just arrived from attending in my proper turn at
+the nymphs' pool, where I have left the other nymphs to perform their
+ablutions, whilst I seek to ascertain, with my own eyes, how it fares
+with King Dushyanta. My connection with the nymph Menak� has made her
+daughter Sakoontal� dearer to me than my own flesh and blood; and Menak�
+it was who charged me with this errand on her daughter's behalf.
+[_Looking round in all directions_.] How is it that I see no
+preparations in the King's household for celebrating the great vernal
+festival? I could easily discover the reason by my divine faculty of
+meditation; but respect must be shown to the wishes of my friend. How
+then shall I arrive at the truth? I know what I will do. I will become
+invisible, and place myself near those two maidens who are tending the
+plants in the garden.          [_Descends and takes her station_.
+
+_Enter a Maiden, who stops in front of a mango-tree and gazes at the
+blossom. Another Maiden is seen behind her_.
+
+FIRST MAIDEN.--Hail to thee, lovely harbinger of spring! The varied
+radiance of thy opening flowers Is welcome to my sight. I bid thee hail,
+Sweet mango, soul of this enchanting season.
+
+SECOND MAIDEN.--Parabaitik�, what are you saying there to yourself?
+
+FIRST MAIDEN.--Dear Madhukarik�, am I not named after the K�il?[41] and
+does not the K�il sing for joy at the first appearance of the
+mango-blossom?
+
+SECOND MAIDEN [_approaching hastily, with transport_].--What! is spring
+really come?
+
+FIRST MAIDEN.--Yes, indeed, Madhukarik�, and with it the season of joy,
+love, and song.
+
+SECOND MAIDEN.--Let me lean upon you, dear, while I stand on tip-toe and
+pluck a blossom of the mango, that I may present it as an offering to
+the god of love.
+
+FIRST MAIDEN.--Provided you let me have half the reward which the god
+will bestow in return.
+
+SECOND MAIDEN.--To be sure you shall, and that without asking. Are we
+not one in heart and soul, though divided in body? [_Leans on her friend
+and plucks a mango-blossom._] Ah! here is a bud just bursting into
+flower. It diffuses a delicious perfume, though not yet quite expanded.
+          [_Joining her hands reverentially_.
+
+    God of the bow, who with spring's choicest flowers
+    Dost point thy five unerring shafts; to thee
+    I dedicate this blossom; let it serve
+    To barb thy truest arrow; be its mark
+    Some youthful heart that pines to be beloved.
+
+          [_Throws down a mango-blossom._
+
+CHAMBERLAIN [_entering in a hurried manner, angrily_].--Hold there,
+thoughtless woman. What are you about breaking off those mango-blossoms,
+when the King has forbidden the celebration of the spring festival?
+
+BOTH MAIDENS [_alarmed_].--Pardon us, kind sir, we have heard nothing of
+it.
+
+CHAMBERLAIN.--You have heard nothing of it? Why, all the vernal plants
+and shrubs, and the very birds that lodge in their branches, show more
+respect to the King's order than you do.
+    Yon mango-blossoms, though long since expanded,
+    Gather no down upon their tender crests;
+    The flower still lingers in the amaranth,
+    Imprisoned in its bud; the tuneful K�il,
+    Though winter's chilly dews be overpast,
+    Suspends the liquid volume of his song
+    Scarce uttered in his throat; e'en Love, dismayed,
+    Restores the half-drawn arrow to his quiver.
+
+BOTH MAIDENS.--The mighty power of King Dushyanta is not to be disputed.
+
+FIRST MAIDEN.--It is but a few days since Mitr�vasu, the king's
+brother-in-law, sent us to wait upon his Majesty; and, during the whole
+of our sojourn here, we have been intrusted with the charge of the royal
+pleasure-grounds. We are therefore strangers in this place, and heard
+nothing of the order until you informed us of it.
+
+CHAMBERLAIN.--Well then, now you know it, take care you don't continue
+your preparations.
+
+BOTH MAIDENS.--But tell us, kind sir, why has the King prohibited the
+usual festivities? We are curious to hear, if we may.
+
+S�NUMAT� [_aside_].--Men are naturally fond of festive entertainments.
+There must be some good reason for the prohibition.
+
+CHAMBERLAIN.--The whole affair is now public; why should I not speak of
+it! Has not the gossip about the King's rejection of Sakoontal� reached
+your ears yet?
+
+BOTH MAIDENS.--Oh yes, we heard the story from the King's
+brother-in-law, as far, at least, as the discovery of the ring.
+
+CHAMBERLAIN.--Then there is little more to tell you. As soon as the
+King's memory was restored by the sight of his own ring, he exclaimed,
+"Yes, it is all true. I remember now my secret marriage with Sakoontal�.
+When I repudiated her, I had lost my recollection." Ever since that
+moment, he has yielded himself a prey to the bitterest remorse.
+    He loathes his former pleasures; he rejects
+    The daily homage of his ministers.
+    On his lone couch he tosses to and fro,
+    Courting repose in vain. Whene'er he meets
+    The ladies of his palace, and would fain
+    Address them with politeness, he confounds
+    Their names; or, calling them "Sakoontal�,"
+    Is straightway silent and abashed with shame.
+
+S�NUMAT� [_aside_].--To me this account is delightful.
+
+CHAMBERLAIN.--In short, the King is so completely out of his mind that
+the festival has been prohibited.
+
+BOTH MAIDENS.--Perfectly right.
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--The King! the King! This way, Sire, this
+way.
+
+CHAMBERLAIN [_listening_].--Oh! here comes his majesty in this
+direction. Pass on, maidens; attend to your duties.
+
+BOTH MAIDENS.--We will, sir. [_Exeunt._
+
+_Enter King Dushyanta, dressed in deep mourning, attended by his Jester,
+M�thavya, and preceded by Vetravat�._
+
+CHAMBERLAIN [_gazing at the King_].--Well, noble forms are certainly
+pleasing, under all varieties of outward circumstances. The King's
+person is as charming as ever, notwithstanding his sorrow of mind.
+    Though but a single golden bracelet spans
+    His wasted arm; though costly ornaments
+    Have given place to penitential weeds;
+    Though oft-repeated sighs have blanched his lips,
+    And robbed them of their bloom; though sleepless care
+    And carking thought have dimmed his beaming eye;
+    Yet does his form, by its inherent lustre,
+    Dazzle the gaze; and, like a priceless gem
+    Committed to some cunning polisher,
+    Grow more effulgent by the loss of substance.
+
+S�NUMAT� [_aside. Looking at the King_].--Now that I have seen him, I
+can well understand why Sakoontal� should pine after such a man, in
+spite of his disdainful rejection of her.
+
+KING [_walking slowly up and down, in deep thought_].--
+    When fatal lethargy overwhelmed my soul,
+    My loved one strove to rouse me, but in vain:--
+    And now when I would fain in slumber deep
+    Forget myself, full soon remorse doth wake me.
+
+S�NUMAT� [_aside_].--My poor Sakoontal�'s sufferings are very similar.
+
+M�THAVYA [_aside_].--He is taken with another attack of this odious
+Sakoontal� fever. How shall we ever cure him?
+
+CHAMBERLAIN [_approaching_].--Victory to the King! Great Prince, the
+royal pleasure-grounds have been put in order. Your Majesty can resort
+to them for exercise and amusement whenever you think proper.
+
+KING.--Vetravat�, tell the worthy Pisuna, my prime minister, from me,
+that I am so exhausted by want of sleep that I cannot sit on the
+judgment-seat to-day. If any case of importance be brought before the
+tribunal he must give it his best attention, and inform me of the
+circumstances by letter.
+
+VETRAVAT�.--Your Majesty's commands shall be obeyed. [_Exit._
+
+KING [_to the Chamberlain_].--And you, V�t�yana, may go about your own
+affairs.
+
+CHAMBERLAIN.--I will, Sire. [_Exit._
+
+M�THAVYA.--Now that you have rid yourself of these troublesome fellows,
+you can enjoy the delightful coolness of your pleasure-grounds without
+interruption.
+
+KING.--Ah! my dear friend, there is an old adage--"When affliction has a
+mind to enter, she will find a crevice somewhere"--and it is verified in
+me.
+    Scarce is my soul delivered from the cloud
+    That darkened its remembrance of the past,
+    When lo! the heart-born deity of love
+    With yonder blossom of the mango barbs
+    His keenest shaft, and aims it at my breast.
+
+M�THAVYA.--Well, then, wait a moment; I will soon demolish Master K�ma's
+arrow with a cut of my cane.
+
+          [_Raises his stick and strikes off the mango-blossom._
+
+KING [_smiling_].--That will do. I see very well the god of Love is not
+a match for a Br�hman. And now, my dear friend, where shall I sit down,
+that I may enchant my sight by gazing on the twining plants, which seem
+to remind me of the graceful shape of my beloved?
+
+M�THAVYA.--Do you not remember? you told Chaturik� you should pass the
+heat of the day in the jasmine bower; and commanded her to bring the
+likeness of your queen Sakoontal�, sketched with your own hand.
+
+KING.--True. The sight of her picture will refresh my soul. Lead the way
+to the arbor.
+
+M�THAVYA.--This way, Sire.
+
+          [_Both move on, followed by S�numat�._
+
+M�THAVYA.--Here we are at the jasmine bower. Look, it has a marble seat,
+and seems to bid us welcome with its offerings of delicious flowers. You
+have only to enter and sit down. [_Both enter and seat themselves._
+
+S�NUMAT� [_aside_].--I will lean against these young jasmines. I can
+easily, from behind them, glance at my friend's picture, and will then
+hasten to inform her of her husband's ardent affection. [_Stands leaning
+against the creepers_.
+
+KING.--Oh! my dear friend, how vividly all the circumstances of my union
+with Sakoontal� present themselves to my recollection at this moment!
+But tell me now how it was that, between the time of my leaving her in
+the hermitage and my subsequent rejection of her, you never breathed her
+name to me! True, you were not by my side when I disowned her; but I had
+confided to you the story of my love and you were acquainted with every
+particular. Did it pass out of your mind as it did out of mine?
+
+M�THAVYA.--No, no; trust me for that. But, if you remember, when you had
+finished telling me about it, you added that I was not to take the story
+in earnest, for that you were not really in love with a country girl,
+but were only jesting; and I was dull and thick-headed enough to believe
+you. But so fate decreed, and there is no help for it.
+
+S�NUMAT� [_aside_].--Exactly.
+
+KING [_after deep thought_].--My dear friend, suggest some relief for my
+misery.
+
+M�THAVYA.--Come, come, cheer up; why do you give way? Such weakness is
+unworthy of you. Great men never surrender themselves to uncontrolled
+grief. Do not mountains remain unshaken even in a gale of wind?
+
+KING.--How can I be otherwise than inconsolable, when I call to mind the
+agonized demeanor of the dear one on the occasion of my disowning her?
+    When cruelly I spurned her from my presence,
+    She fain had left me; but the young recluse,
+    Stern as the Sage, and with authority
+    As from his saintly master, in a voice
+    That brooked not contradiction, bade her stay.
+    Then through her pleading eyes, bedimmed with tears,
+    She cast on me one long reproachful look,
+    Which like a poisoned shaft torments me still.
+
+S�NUMAT� [_aside_].--Alas! such is the force of self-reproach following
+a rash action. But his anguish only rejoices me.
+
+M�THAVYA.--An idea has just struck me. I should not wonder if some
+celestial being had carried her off to heaven.
+
+KING.--Very likely. Who else would have dared to lay a
+finger on a wife, the idol of her husband? It is said that Menak�, the
+nymph of heaven, gave her birth. The suspicion has certainly crossed my
+mind that some of her celestial companions may have taken her to their
+own abode.
+
+S�NUMAT� [_aside_].--His present recollection of every circumstance of
+her history does not surprise me so much as his former forgetfulness.
+
+M�THAVYA.--If that's the case, you will be certain to meet her before
+long.
+
+KING.--Why?
+
+M�THAVYA.--No father and mother can endure to see a daughter suffering
+the pain of separation from her husband.
+
+KING.--Oh! my dear M�thavya,
+    Was it a dream? or did some magic dire,
+    Dulling my senses with a strange delusion,
+    Overcome my spirit? or did destiny,
+    Jealous of my good actions, mar their fruit,
+    And rob me of their guerdon? It is past,
+    Whatever the spell that bound me. Once again
+    Am I awake, but only to behold
+    The precipice o'er which my hopes have fallen.
+
+M�THAVYA.--Do not despair in this manner. Is not this very ring a proof
+that what has been lost may be unexpectedly found?
+
+KING [_gazing at the ring_].--Ah! this ring, too, has fallen from a
+station which it will not easily regain, and deserves all my sympathy.
+    O gem, deserved the punishment we suffer,
+    And equal is the merit of our works,
+    When such our common doom. Thou didst enjoy
+    The thrilling contact of those slender fingers,
+    Bright as the dawn; and now how changed thy lot!
+
+S�NUMAT� [_aside_].--Had it found its way to the hand of any other
+person, then indeed its fate would have been deplorable.
+
+M�THAVYA.--Pray, how did the ring ever come upon her hand at all?
+
+S�NUMAT�.--I myself am curious to know.
+
+KING.--You shall hear. When I was leaving my beloved Sakoontal� that I
+might return to my own capital, she said to me, with tears in her eyes,
+"How long will it be ere my lord send for me to his palace and make me
+his queen?"
+
+M�THAVYA.--Well, what was your reply?
+
+KING.--Then I placed the ring on her finger, and thus addressed her--
+    Repeat each day one letter of the name
+    Engraven on this gem; ere thou hast reckoned
+    The tale of syllables, my minister
+    Shall come to lead thee to thy husband's palace.
+But, hard-hearted man that I was, I forgot to fulfil my promise, owing
+to the infatuation that took possession of me.
+
+S�NUMAT� [_aside_].--A pleasant arrangement! Fate, however, ordained
+that the appointment should not be kept.
+
+M�THAVYA.--But how did the ring contrive to pass into the stomach of
+that carp which the fisherman caught and was cutting up?
+
+KING.--It must have slipped from my Sakoontal�'s hand, and fallen into
+the stream of the Ganges, while she was offering homage to the water of
+Sach�'s holy pool.
+
+M�THAVYA.--Very likely.
+
+S�NUMAT� [_aside_].--Hence it happened, I suppose, that the King, always
+fearful of committing the least injustice, came to doubt his marriage
+with my poor Sakoontal�. But why should affection so strong as his stand
+in need of any token of recognition?
+
+KING.--Let me now address a few words of reproof to this ring.
+
+M�THAVYA [_aside_].--He is going stark mad, I verily believe.
+
+KING.--Hear me, thou dull and undiscerning bauble!
+    For so it argues thee, that thou couldst leave
+    The slender fingers of her hand, to sink
+    Beneath the waters. Yet what marvel is it
+    That thou shouldst lack discernment? let me rather
+    Heap curses on myself, who, though endowed
+    With reason, yet rejected her I loved.
+
+M�THAVYA [_aside_].--And so, I suppose, I must stand here to be devoured
+by hunger, whilst he goes on in this sentimental strain.
+
+KING.--O forsaken one, unjustly banished from my presence, take pity on
+thy slave, whose heart is consumed by the fire of remorse, and return to
+my sight.
+
+_Enter Chaturik� hurriedly, with a picture in her hand_.
+
+CHATURIK�.--Here is the Queen's portrait. [_Shows the picture_.
+
+M�THAVYA.--Excellent, my dear friend, excellent! The imitation of nature
+is perfect, and the attitude of the figures is really charming. They
+stand out in such bold relief that the eye is quite deceived.
+
+S�NUMAT� [_aside_].--A most artistic performance! I admire the King's
+skill, and could almost believe that Sakoontal� herself was before me.
+
+KING.--I own 'tis not amiss, though it portrays
+    But feebly her angelic loveliness.
+    Aught less than perfect is depicted falsely,
+    And fancy must supply the imperfection.
+
+S�NUMAT� [_aside_].--A very just remark from a modest man, whose
+affection is exaggerated by the keenness of his remorse.
+
+M�THAVYA.--Tell me--I see three female figures drawn on the canvas, and
+all of them beautiful; which of the three is her Majesty, Sakoontal�?
+
+S�NUMAT� [_aside_].--If he cannot distinguish her from the others, the
+simpleton might as well have no eyes in his head.
+
+KING.--Which should you imagine to be intended for her?
+
+M�THAVYA.--She who is leaning, apparently a little tired, against the
+stem of that mango-tree, the tender leaves of which glitter with the
+water she has poured upon them. Her arms are gracefully extended; her
+face is somewhat flushed with the heat; and a few flowers have escaped
+from her hair, which has become unfastened, and hangs in loose tresses
+about her neck. That must be the queen Sakoontal�, and the others, I
+presume, are her two attendants.
+
+KING.--I congratulate you on your discernment. Behold the proof of my
+passion;
+    My finger, burning with the glow of love,
+    Has left its impress on the painted tablet;
+    While here and there, alas! a scalding tear
+    Has fallen on the cheek and dimmed its brightness.
+    Chaturik�, the garden in the background of the picture is
+    only half-painted. Go, fetch the brush that I may finish it.
+
+CHATURIK�.--Worthy M�thavya, have the kindness to hold the picture until
+I return.
+
+KING.--Nay, I will hold it myself.
+          [_Takes the picture. Exit Chaturik�_.
+
+KING.--My loved one came but lately to my presence
+    And offered me herself, but in my folly
+    I spurned the gift, and now I fondly cling
+    To her mere image; even as a madman
+    Would pass the waters of the gushing stream,
+    And thirst for airy vapors of the desert.
+
+M�THAVYA [_aside_].--He has been fool enough to forego the reality for
+the semblance, the substance for the shadow. [_Aloud._] Tell us, I pray,
+what else remains to be painted.
+
+S�NUMAT� [_aside_].--He longs, no doubt, to delineate some favorite spot
+where my dear Sakoontal� delighted to ramble.
+
+KING.--You shall hear------
+    I wish to see the M�lin� portrayed,
+    Its tranquil course by banks of sand impeded--
+    Upon the brink a pair of swans: beyond,
+    The hills adjacent to Him�laya,
+    Studded with deer; and, near the spreading shade
+    Of some large tree, where 'mid the branches hang
+    The hermits' vests of bark, a tender doe,
+    Rubbing its downy forehead on the horn
+    Of a black antelope, should be depicted.
+
+M�THAVYA [_aside_].--Pooh! if I were he, I would fill up the vacant
+spaces with a lot of grizzly-bearded old hermits.
+
+KING.--My dear M�thavya, there is still a part of Sakoontal�'s dress
+which I purposed to draw, but find I have omitted.
+
+M�THAVYA.--What is that?
+
+S�NUMAT� [_aside_].--Something suitable, I suppose, to the simple attire
+of a young and beautiful girl dwelling in a forest.
+
+KING.--A sweet Sir�sha blossom should be twined
+    Behind her ear, its perfumed crest depending
+    Towards her cheek; and, resting on her bosom,
+    A lotus-fibre necklace, soft and bright
+    As an autumnal moon-beam, should be traced.
+
+M�THAVYA.--Pray, why does the Queen cover her lips with the tips of her
+fingers, bright as the blossom of a lily, as if she were afraid of
+something? [_Looking more closely_.] Oh! I see; a vagabond bee, intent
+on thieving the honey of flowers, has mistaken her mouth for a rose-bud,
+and is trying to settle upon it.
+
+KING.--A bee! drive off the impudent insect, will you?
+
+M�THAVYA.--That's your business. Your royal prerogative gives you power
+over all offenders.
+
+KING.--Very true. Listen to me, thou favorite guest of flowering plants;
+why give thyself the trouble of hovering here? See where thy partner
+sits on yonder flower, And waits for thee ere she will sip its dew.
+
+S�NUMAT� [_aside_].--A most polite way of warning him off!
+
+M�THAVYA.--You'll find the obstinate creature is not to be sent about
+his business so easily as you think.
+
+KING.--Dost thou presume to disobey? Now hear me--
+    An thou but touch the lips of my beloved,
+    Sweet as the opening blossom, whence I quaffed
+    In happier days love's nectar, I will place thee
+    Within the hollow of yon lotus cup,
+    And there imprison thee for thy presumption.
+
+M�THAVYA.--He must be bold indeed not to show any fear when you threaten
+him with such an awful punishment. [_Smiling, aside_.] He is stark mad,
+that's clear; and I believe, by keeping him company, I am beginning to
+talk almost as wildly. [_Aloud_.] Look, it is only a painted bee.
+
+KING.--Painted? impossible!
+
+S�NUMAT� [_aside_].--Even I did not perceive it; how much less should
+he?
+
+KING.--Oh! my dear friend, why were you so ill-natured as to tell me the
+truth?
+    While, all entranced, I gazed upon her picture,
+    My loved one seemed to live before my eyes,
+    Till every fibre of my being thrilled
+    With rapturous emotion. Oh! 'twas cruel
+    To dissipate the day-dream, and transform
+    The blissful vision to a lifeless image.
+          [_Sheds tears_.
+
+S�NUMAT� [_aside_].--Separated lovers are very difficult to please; but
+he seems more difficult than usual.
+
+KING.--Alas! my dear M�thavya, why am I doomed to be the victim of
+perpetual disappointment?
+    Vain is the hope of meeting her in dreams,
+    For slumber night by night forsakes my couch:
+    And now that I would fain assuage my grief
+    By gazing on her portrait here before me,
+    Tears of despairing love obscure my sight.
+
+S�NUMAT� [_aside_],--You have made ample amends for the wrong you did
+Sakoontal� in disowning her.
+
+CHATURIK� [_entering_].--Victory to the King! I was coming along with
+the box of colors in my hand------
+
+KING.--What now?
+
+CHATURIK�.--When I met the Queen Vasumat�, attended by Taralik�. She
+insisted on taking it from me, and declared she would herself deliver it
+into your Majesty's hands.
+
+M�THAVYA.--By what luck did you contrive to escape her?
+
+CHATURIK�.--While her maid was disengaging her mantle, which had caught
+in the branch of a shrub, I ran away.
+
+KING.--Here, my good friend, take the picture and conceal it. My
+attentions to the Queen have made her presumptuous. She will be here in
+a minute.
+
+M�THAVYA.--Conceal the picture! conceal myself, you mean. [_Getting up
+and taking the picture_.] The Queen has a bitter draught in store for
+you, which you will have to swallow as Siva did the poison at the
+Deluge. When you are well quit of her, you may send and call me from the
+Palace of Clouds,[42] where I shall take refuge.
+          [_Exit, running_.
+
+S�NUMAT� [_aside_].--Although the King's affections are transferred to
+another object, yet he respects his previous attachments. I fear his
+love must be somewhat fickle.
+
+VETRAVAT� [_entering with a despatch in her hand_].--Victory to the
+King!
+
+KING.---Vetravat�, did you observe the Queen Vasumat� coming in this
+direction?
+
+VETRAVAT�.--I did; but when she saw that I had a despatch in my hand for
+your Majesty, she turned back.
+
+KING.--The Queen has too much regard for propriety to interrupt me when
+I am engaged with state-affairs.
+
+VETRAVAT�.--So please your Majesty, your Prime Minister begs
+respectfully to inform you that he has devoted much time to the
+settlement of financial calculations, and only one case of importance
+has been submitted by the citizens for his consideration. He has made a
+written report of the facts, and requests your Majesty to cast your eyes
+over it.
+
+KING.--Hand me the paper.
+          [_Vetravat� delivers it_.
+
+KING [_reading_].--What have we here? "A merchant named Dhanamitra,
+trading by sea, was lost in a late shipwreck. Though a wealthy trader,
+he was childless; and the whole of his immense property becomes by law
+forfeited to the King." So writes the minister. Alas! alas! for his
+childlessness. But surely, if he was wealthy, he must have had many
+wives. Let an inquiry be made whether any one of them is expecting to
+give birth to a child.
+
+VETRAVAT�.--They say that his wife, the daughter of the foreman of a
+guild belonging to Ayodhy�, has just completed the ceremonies usual upon
+such expectations.
+
+KING.--The unborn child has a title to his father's property. Such is my
+decree. Go, bid my minister proclaim it so.
+
+VETRAVAT�.--I will, my liege.          [_Going_.
+
+KING.--Stay a moment.
+
+VETRAVAT�.--I am at your Majesty's service.
+
+KING.--Let there be no question whether he may or may not have left
+offspring;
+    Rather be it proclaimed that whosoe'er
+    Of King Dushyanta's subjects be bereaved
+    Of any loved relation, an it be not
+    That his estates are forfeited for crimes,
+    Dushyanta will himself to them supply
+    That kinsman's place in tenderest affection.
+
+VETRAVAT�.--It shall be so proclaimed.
+
+          [_Exit Vetravat�, and re�nter after an interval_.
+
+VETRAVAT�.--Your Majesty's proclamation was received with acclamations
+of joy, like grateful rain at the right season.
+
+KING [_drawing a deep sigh_].--So then, the property of rich men, who
+have no lineal descendants, passes over to a stranger at their decease.
+And such, alas! must be the fate of the fortunes of the race of Puru at
+my death; even as when fertile soil is sown with seed at the wrong
+season.
+
+VETRAVAT�.--Heaven forbid!
+
+KING.--Fool that I was to reject such happiness when it offered itself
+for my acceptance!
+
+S�NUMAT� [_aside_].--He may well blame his own folly when he calls to
+mind his treatment of my beloved Sakoontal�.
+
+KING.--Ah! woe is me? when I forsook my wife--
+    My lawful wife--concealed within her breast
+    There lay my second self, a child unborn,
+    Hope of my race, e'en as the choicest fruit
+    Lies hidden in the bosom of the earth.
+
+S�NUMAT� [_aside_].--There is no fear of your race being cut off for
+want of a son.
+
+CHATURIK� [_aside to Vetravat�_].--The affair of the merchant's death
+has quite upset our royal master, and caused him sad distress. Had you
+not better fetch the worthy M�thavya from the Palace of Clouds to
+comfort him?
+
+VETRAVAT�.--A very good idea. [_Exit_.
+
+KING.--Alas! the shades of my forefathers are even now beginning to be
+alarmed, lest at my death they may be deprived of their funeral
+libations.
+    No son remains in King Dushyanta's place
+    To offer sacred homage to the dead
+    Of Puru's noble line: my ancestors
+    Must drink these glistening tears, the last libation
+    A childless man can ever hope to make them.
+          [_Falls down in an agony of grief_.
+
+CHATURIK� [_looking at him in consternation_].--Great King, compose
+yourself.
+
+S�NUMAT� [_aside_].--Alas! alas! though a bright light is shining near
+him, he is involved in the blackest darkness, by reason of the veil that
+obscures his sight. I will now reveal all, and put an end to his misery.
+But no; I heard the mother of the great Indra, when she was consoling
+Sakoontal�, say, that the gods will soon bring about a joyful union
+between husband and wife, being eager for the sacrifice which will be
+celebrated in their honor on the occasion. I must not anticipate the
+happy moment, but will return at once to my dear friend and cheer her
+with an account of what I have seen and heard.
+          [_Rises aloft and disappears_.
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--Help! help! to the rescue!
+
+KING [_recovering himself. Listening_].--Ha! I heard a cry of distress,
+and in M�thavya's voice. What ho there!
+
+VETRAVAT� [_entering_].--Your friend is in danger; save him, great King.
+
+KING.--Who dares insult the worthy M�thavya?
+
+VETRAVAT�.--Some evil demon, invisible to human eyes, has seized him,
+and carried him to one of the turrets of the Palace of Clouds.
+
+KING [_rising_].--Impossible! Have evil spirits power over my subjects,
+even in my private apartments? Well, well--
+    Daily I seem less able to avert
+    Misfortune from myself, and o'er my actions
+    Less competent to exercise control;
+    How can I then direct my subjects' ways,
+    Or shelter them from tyranny and wrong?
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--Halloo there! my dear friend; help!
+help!
+
+KING [_advancing with rapid strides_].--Fear nothing--
+
+THE SAME VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--Fear nothing, indeed! How can I
+help fearing when some monster is twisting back my neck, and is about to
+snap it as he would a sugarcane?
+
+KING [_looking round_].--What ho there! my bow.
+
+SLAVE [_entering with a bow_].--Behold your bow, Sire, and your
+arm-guard.
+
+          [_The king snatches up the bow and arrows_.
+
+ANOTHER VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--Here, thirsting for thy
+life-blood, will I slay thee, As a fierce tiger rends his struggling
+prey. Call now thy friend Dushyanta to thy aid; His bow is mighty to
+defend the weak; Yet all its vaunted power shall be as nought.
+
+KING [_with fury_].--What! dares he defy me to my face? Hold there,
+monster! Prepare to die, for your time is come. [_Stringing his bow_.]
+Vetravat�, lead the way to the terrace.
+
+VETRAVAT�.--This way, Sire. [_They advance in haste_.
+
+KING [_looking on every side_].--How's this? there is nothing to be
+seen.
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--Help! Save me! I can see you, though you
+cannot see me. I am like a mouse in the claws of a cat; my life is not
+worth a moment's purchase.
+
+KING.--Avaunt, monster! You may pride yourself on the magic that renders
+you invisible, but my arrow shall find you out. Thus do I fix a shaft
+    That shall discern between an impious demon
+    And a good Br�hman; bearing death to thee,
+    To him deliverance--even as the swan
+    Distinguishes the milk from worthless water.
+          [_Takes aim_.
+
+          _Enter M�tali, holding M�thavya, whom he releases_.
+
+M�TALI.--Turn thou thy deadly arrows on the demons;
+    Such is the will of Indra; let thy bow
+    Be drawn against the enemies of the gods;
+    But on thy friends cast only looks of favor.
+
+KING [_putting back his arrow_].--What, M�tali! Welcome, most noble
+charioteer of the mighty Indra.
+
+M�THAVYA.--So, here is a monster who thought as little about
+slaughtering me as if I had been a bullock for sacrifice, and you must
+e'en greet him with a welcome.
+
+M�TALI [_smiling_].--Great Prince, hear on what errand Indra sent me
+into your presence.
+
+KING.--I am all attention.
+
+M�TALI.--There is a race of giants, the descendants of K�lanemi, whom
+the gods find difficult to subdue.
+
+KING.--So I have already heard from N�rada.
+
+M�TALI.--Heaven's mighty lord, who deigns to call thee "friend,"
+    Appoints thee to the post of highest honor,
+    As leader of his armies; and commits
+    The subjugation of this giant brood
+    To thy resistless arms, e'en as the sun
+    Leaves the pale moon to dissipate the darkness.
+
+Let your Majesty, therefore, ascend at once the celestial car of Indra;
+and, grasping your arms, advance to victory.
+
+KING.--The mighty Indra honors me too highly by such a mark of
+distinction. But tell me, what made you act thus towards my poor friend
+M�thavya?
+
+M�TALI.--I will tell you. Perceiving that your Majesty's spirit was
+completely broken by some distress of mind under which you were
+laboring, I determined to rouse your energies by moving you to anger.
+Because
+    To light a flame, we need but stir the embers;
+    The cobra, when incensed, extends his head
+    And springs upon his foe; the bravest men
+    Display their courage only when provoked.
+
+KING [_aside to M�thavya_].--My dear M�thavya, the commands of the great
+Indra must not be left unfulfilled. Go you and acquaint my minister,
+Pisuna, with what has happened, and say to him from me, Dushyanta to thy
+care confides his realm--
+    Protect with all the vigor of thy mind
+    The interests of my people; while my bow
+    Is braced against the enemies of heaven.
+
+M�THAVYA.--I obey.          [_Exit._
+
+M�TALI.--Ascend, illustrious Prince.
+          [_The King ascends the car. Exeunt_.
+
+
+[41] The K�il is the Indian cuckoo. It is sometimes called Parabhrita
+(nourished by another) because the female is known to leave her eggs in
+the nest of the crow to be hatched. The bird is a great favorite with
+the Indian poets, as the nightingale with Europeans.
+
+[42] Palace of King Dushyanta, so-called because it was as lofty as the
+clouds.
+
+
+
+
+ACT SEVENTH
+
+Scene.--The Sky
+
+
+_Enter King Dushyanta and M�tali in the car of Indra, moving in the
+air_.
+
+KING.--My good M�tali, it appears to me incredible that I can merit such
+a mark of distinction for having simply fulfilled the behests of the
+great Indra.
+
+M�TALI [_smiling_].--Great Prince, it seems to me that neither of you is
+satisfied with himself--
+    You underrate the service you have rendered,
+    And think too highly of the god's reward:
+    He deems it scarce sufficient recompense
+    For your heroic deeds on his behalf.
+
+KING.--Nay, M�tali, say not so. My most ambitious expectations were more
+than realized by the honor conferred on me at the moment when I took my
+leave. For,
+    Tinged with celestial sandal, from the breast
+    Of the great Indra, where before it hung,
+    A garland of the ever-blooming tree
+    Of Nandana was cast about my neck
+    By his own hand: while, in the very presence
+    Of the assembled gods, I was enthroned
+    Beside their mighty lord, who smiled to see
+    His son Jayanta envious of the honor.
+
+M�TALI.--There is no mark of distinction which your Majesty does not
+deserve at the hands of the immortals. See,
+    Heaven's hosts acknowledge thee their second saviour;
+    For now thy bow's unerring shafts (as erst
+    The lion-man's terrific claws) have purged
+    The empyreal sphere from taint of demons foul.
+
+KING.--The praise of my victory must be ascribed to the majesty of
+Indra.
+    When mighty gods make men their delegates
+    In martial enterprise, to them belongs
+    The palm of victory; and not to mortals.
+    Could the pale Dawn dispel the shades of night,
+    Did not the god of day, whose diadem
+    Is jewelled with a thousand beams of light,
+    Place him in front of his effulgent car?
+
+M�TALI.--A very just comparison. [_Driving on._] Great King, behold! the
+glory of thy fame has reached even to the vault of heaven.
+    Hark! yonder inmates of the starry sphere
+    Sing anthems worthy of thy martial deeds,
+    While with celestial colors they depict
+    The story of thy victories on scrolls
+    Formed of the leaves of heaven's immortal trees.
+
+KING.--My good M�tali, yesterday, when I ascended the sky, I was so
+eager to do battle with the demons, that the road by which we were
+travelling towards Indra's heaven escaped my observation. Tell me, in
+which path of the seven winds are we now moving?
+
+M�TALI.--We journey in the path of Parivaha;
+    The wind that bears along the triple Ganges,
+    And causes Ursa's seven stars to roll
+    In their appointed orbits, scattering
+    Their several rays with equal distribution.
+    'Tis the same path that once was sanctified
+    By the divine impression of the foot
+    Of Vishnu, when, to conquer haughty Bali,
+    He spanned the heavens in his second stride.
+
+KING.--This is the reason, I suppose, that a sensation of calm repose
+pervades all my senses. [_Looking down at the wheels._] Ah! M�tali, we
+are descending towards the earth's atmosphere.
+
+M�TALI.--What makes you think so?
+
+KING.--The car itself instructs me; we are moving
+    O'er pregnant clouds, surcharged with rain; below us
+    I see the moisture-loving Ch�takas
+    In sportive flight dart through the spokes; the steeds
+    Of Indra glisten with the lightning's flash;
+    And a thick mist bedews the circling wheels.
+
+M�TALI.--You are right; in a little while the chariot will touch the
+ground, and you will be in your own dominions.
+
+KING [_looking down_],--How wonderful is the appearance of the earth as
+we rapidly descend!
+    Stupendous prospect! yonder lofty hills
+    Do suddenly uprear their towering heads
+    Amid the plain, while from beneath their crests
+    The ground receding sinks; the trees, whose stems
+    Seemed lately hid within their leafy tresses,
+    Rise into elevation, and display
+    Their branching shoulders; yonder streams, whose waters,
+    Like silver threads, but now were scarcely seen,
+    Grow into mighty rivers; lo! the earth
+    Seems upward hurled by some gigantic power.
+
+M�TALI.--Well described! [_Looking with awe._] Grand, indeed, and lovely
+is the spectacle presented by the earth.
+
+KING.--Tell me, M�tali, what is that range of mountains which, like a
+bank of clouds illumined by the setting sun, pours down a stream of
+gold? On one side its base dips into the eastern ocean, and on the other
+side into the western.
+
+M�TALI.--Great Prince, it is called "Golden-peak,"[43] and is the abode
+of the attendants of the god of Wealth. In this spot the highest forms
+of penance are wrought out.
+    There Kasyapa, the great progenitor
+    Of demons and of gods, himself the offspring
+    Of the divine Mar�chi, Brahm�'s son,
+    With Aditi, his wife, in calm seclusion,
+    Does holy penance for the good of mortals.
+
+KING.--Then I must not neglect so good an opportunity of obtaining his
+blessing. I should much like to visit this venerable personage and offer
+him my homage.
+
+M�TALI.--By all means! An excellent idea. [_Guides the car to the
+earth._]
+
+KING [_in a tone of wonder_].--How's this?
+    Our chariot wheels move noiselessly. Around
+    No clouds of dust arise; no shock betokened
+    Our contact with the earth; we seem to glide
+    Above the ground, so lightly do we touch it.
+
+M�TALI.--Such is the difference between the car of Indra and that of
+your Majesty.
+
+KING.--In which direction, M�tali, is Kasyapa's sacred retreat?
+
+M�TALI [_pointing_].--Where stands yon anchorite, towards the orb
+    Of the meridian sun, immovable
+    As a tree's stem, his body half-concealed
+    By a huge ant-hill. Round about his breast
+    No sacred cord is twined, but in its stead
+    A hideous serpent's skin. In place of necklace,
+    The tendrils of a withered creeper chafe
+    His wasted neck. His matted hair depends
+    In thick entanglement about his shoulders,
+    And birds construct their nests within its folds.
+
+KING.--I salute thee, thou man of austere devotion.
+
+M�TALI [_holding in the reins of the car_].--Great Prince, we are now in
+the sacred grove of the holy Kasyapa--the grove that boasts as its
+ornament one of the five trees of Indra's heaven, reared by Aditi.
+
+KING.--This sacred retreat is more delightful than heaven itself. I
+could almost fancy myself bathing in a pool of nectar.
+
+M�TALI [_stopping the chariot_].--Descend, mighty Prince.
+
+KING [_descending_].--And what will you do, M�tali?
+
+M�TALI.--The chariot will remain where I have stopped it. We may both
+descend. [_Doing so._] This way, great King, [_Walking on._] You see
+around you the celebrated region where the holiest sages devote
+themselves to penitential rites.
+
+KING.--I am filled with awe and wonder as I gaze.
+    In such a place as this do saints of earth
+    Long to complete their acts of penance; here,
+    Beneath the shade of everlasting trees,
+    Transplanted from the groves of Paradise,
+    May they inhale the balmy air, and need
+    No other nourishment; here may they bathe
+    In fountains sparkling with the golden dust
+    Of lilies; here, on jewelled slabs of marble,
+    In meditation rapt, may they recline;
+    Here, in the presence of celestial nymphs,
+    E'en passion's voice is powerless to move them.
+
+M�TALI.--So true is it that the aspirations of the good and great are
+ever soaring upwards. [_Turning round and speaking off the stage_.] Tell
+me, Vriddha-s�kalya, how is the divine son of Mar�chi now engaged? What
+sayest thou? that he is conversing with Aditi and some of the wives of
+the great sages, and that they are questioning him respecting the duties
+of a faithful wife?
+
+KING [_listening_].--Then we must await the holy father's leisure.
+
+M�TALI [_looking at the King_].--If your Majesty will rest under the
+shade, at the foot of this Asoka-tree, I will seek an opportunity of
+announcing your arrival to Indra's reputed father.
+
+KING.--As you think proper.          [_Remains under the tree_.
+
+M�TALI.--Great King, I go.          [_Exit._
+
+KING [_feeling his arm throb_].--Wherefore this causeless throbbing, O
+mine arm?
+    All hope has fled forever; mock me not
+    With presages of good, when happiness
+    Is lost, and nought but misery remains.
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--Be not so naughty. Do you begin already
+to show a refractory spirit?
+
+KING [_listening_].--This is no place for petulance. Who can it be whose
+behavior calls for such a rebuke? [_Looking in the direction of the
+sound and smiling_.] A child, is it? closely attended by two holy women.
+His disposition seems anything but childlike. See,
+    He braves the fury of yon lioness
+    Suckling its savage offspring, and compels
+    The angry whelp to leave the half-sucked dug,
+    Tearing its tender mane in boisterous sport.
+
+_Enter a child, attended by two women of the hermitage, In the manner
+described_.
+
+CHILD.--Open your mouth, my young lion, I want to count your teeth.
+
+FIRST ATTENDANT.--You naughty child, why do you tease the animals? Know
+you not that we cherish them in this hermitage as if they were our own
+children? In good sooth, you have a high spirit of your own, and are
+beginning already to do justice to the name Sarva-damana (All-taming),
+given you by the hermits.
+
+KING.--Strange! My heart inclines towards the boy with almost as much
+affection as if he were my own child. What can be the reason? I suppose
+my own childlessness makes me yearn towards the sons of others.
+
+SECOND ATTENDANT.--This lioness will certainly attack you if you do not
+release her whelp.
+
+CHILD [_laughing_].--Oh! indeed! let her come. Much I fear her, to be
+sure.          [_Pouts his under-lip in defiance_.
+
+KING.--The germ of mighty courage lies concealed
+    Within this noble infant, like a spark
+    Beneath the fuel, waiting but a breath
+    To fan the flame and raise a conflagration.
+
+FIRST ATTENDANT.--Let the young lion go, like a dear child, and I will
+give you something else to play with.
+
+CHILD.--Where is it? Give it me first.
+          [_Stretches out his hand._
+
+KING [_looking at his hand_].--How's this? His hand exhibits one of
+those mystic marks which are the sure prognostic of universal empire.
+See!
+    His fingers stretched in eager expectation
+    To grasp the wished-for toy, and knit together
+    By a close-woven web, in shape resemble
+    A lotus-blossom, whose expanding petals
+    The early dawn has only half unfolded.
+
+SECOND ATTENDANT.--We shall never pacify him by mere words, dear
+Suvrat�. Be kind enough to go to my cottage, and you will find there a
+plaything belonging to M�rk�ndeya, one of the hermit's children. It is a
+peacock made of China-ware, painted in many colors. Bring it here for
+the child.
+
+FIRST ATTENDANT.--Very well.          [_Exit._
+
+CHILD.--No, no; I shall go on playing with the young lion.
+
+          [_Looks at the female attendant and laughs_.
+
+KING.--I feel an unaccountable affection for this wayward child.
+    How blessed the virtuous parents whose attire
+    Is soiled with dust, by raising from the ground
+    The child that asks a refuge in their arms!
+    And happy are they while with lisping prattle,
+    In accents sweetly inarticulate,
+    He charms their ears; and with his artless smiles
+    Gladdens their hearts, revealing to their gaze
+    His tiny teeth, just budding into view.
+
+ATTENDANT.--I see how it is. He pays me no manner of attention.
+[_Looking off the stage._] I wonder whether any of the hermits are about
+here. [_Seeing the King._] Kind Sir, could you come hither a moment and
+help me to release the young lion from the clutch of this child, who is
+teasing him in boyish play?
+
+KING [_approaching and smiling_].--Listen to me, thou child of a mighty
+saint.
+    Dost thou dare show a wayward spirit here?
+    Here, in this hallowed region? Take thou heed
+    Lest, as the serpent's young defiles the sandal,
+    Thou bring dishonor on the holy sage,
+    Thy tender-hearted parent, who delights
+    To shield from harm the tenants of the wood.
+
+ATTENDANT.--Gentle Sir, I thank you; but he is not the saint's son.
+
+KING.--His behavior and whole bearing would have led me to doubt it, had
+not the place of his abode encouraged the idea.
+
+[_Follows the child, and takes him by the hand, according to the request
+of the attendant. Speaking aside._
+    I marvel that the touch of this strange child
+    Should thrill me with delight; if so it be,
+    How must the fond caresses of a son
+    Transport the father's soul who gave him being!
+
+ATTENDANT [_looking at them both_].--Wonderful! Prodigious!
+
+KING.--What excites your surprise, my good woman?
+
+ATTENDANT.--I am astonished at the striking resemblance between the
+child and yourself; and, what is still more extraordinary, he seems to
+have taken to you kindly and submissively, though you are a stranger to
+him.
+
+KING [_fondling the child_].--If he be not the son of the great sage, of
+what family does he come, may I ask?
+
+ATTENDANT.--Of the race of Puru.
+
+KING [_aside_].--What! are we, then, descended from the same ancestry?
+This, no doubt, accounts for the resemblance she traces between the
+child and me. Certainly it has always been an established usage among
+the princes of Puru's race,
+    To dedicate the morning of their days
+    To the world's weal, in palaces and halls,
+    'Mid luxury and regal pomp abiding;
+    Then, in the wane of life, to seek release
+    From kingly cares, and make the hallowed shade
+    Of sacred trees their last asylum, where
+    As hermits they may practise self-abasement,
+    And bind themselves by rigid vows of penance.
+[_Aloud._] But how could mortals by their own power gain admission to
+this sacred region?
+
+ATTENDANT.--Your remark is just; but your wonder will cease when I tell
+you that his mother is the offspring of a celestial nymph, and gave him
+birth in the hallowed grove of Kasyapa.
+
+KING [_aside_].--Strange that my hopes should be again excited!
+[_Aloud._] But what, let me ask, was the name of the prince whom she
+deigned to honor with her hand?
+
+ATTENDANT.--How could I think of polluting my lips by the mention of a
+wretch who had the cruelty to desert his lawful wife?
+
+KING [_aside_].--Ha! the description suits me exactly. Would I could
+bring myself to inquire the name of the child's mother! [_Reflecting._]
+But it is against propriety to make too minute inquiries about the wife
+of another man.
+
+FIRST ATTENDANT [_entering with the china peacock in her
+hand_].--Sarva-damana, Sarva-damana, see, see, what a beautiful Sakoonta
+(bird).
+
+CHILD [_looking round_].--My mother! Where? Let me go to her.
+
+BOTH ATTENDANTS.--He mistook the word Sakoonta for Sakoontal�. The boy
+dotes upon his mother, and she is ever uppermost in his thoughts.
+
+SECOND ATTENDANT.--Nay, my dear child, I said, Look at the beauty of
+this Sakoonta.
+
+KING [_aside_].--What! is his mother's name Sakoontal�? But the name is
+not uncommon among women. Alas! I fear the mere similarity of a name,
+like the deceitful vapor of the desert, has once more raised my hopes
+only to dash them to the ground.
+
+CHILD [_takes the toy_].--Dear nurse, what a beautiful peacock!
+
+FIRST ATTENDANT [_looking at the child. In great distress_].--Alas!
+alas! I do not see the amulet on his wrist.
+
+KING.--Don't distress yourself. Here it is. It fell off while he was
+struggling with the young lion.
+
+          [_Stoops to pick it up_.
+
+BOTH ATTENDANTS.--Hold! hold! Touch it not, for your life. How
+marvellous! He has actually taken it up without the slightest
+hesitation.
+
+[_Both raise their hands to their breasts and look at each other in
+astonishment._
+
+KING.--Why did you try to prevent my touching it?
+
+FIRST ATTENDANT.--Listen, great Monarch. This amulet, known as "The
+Invincible," was given to the boy by the divine son of Mar�chi, soon
+after his birth, when the natal ceremony was performed. Its peculiar
+virtue is, that when it falls on the ground, no one excepting the father
+or mother of the child can touch it unhurt.
+
+KING.--And suppose another person touches it?
+
+FIRST ATTENDANT.--Then it instantly becomes a serpent, and bites him.
+
+KING.--Have you ever witnessed the transformation with your own eyes?
+
+BOTH ATTENDANTS.--Over and over again.
+
+KING [_with rapture. Aside_].--Joy! joy! Are then my dearest hopes to be
+fulfilled?
+          [_Embraces the child_.
+
+SECOND ATTENDANT.--Come, my dear Suvrat�, we must inform Sakoontal�
+immediately of this wonderful event, though we have to interrupt her in
+the performance of her religious vows.
+          [_Exeunt._
+
+CHILD [_to the King_].--Do not hold me. I want to go to my mother.
+
+KING.--We will go to her together, and give her joy, my son.
+
+CHILD.--Dushyanta is my father, not you.
+
+KING [_smiling_].--His contradiction convinces me only the more.
+
+_Enter Sakoontal�, in widow's apparel, with her long hair twisted into a
+single braid_.
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_aside_].--I have just heard that Sarva-damana's amulet has
+retained its form, though a stranger raised it from the ground. I can
+hardly believe in my good fortune. Yet why should not S�numat�'s
+prediction be verified?
+
+KING [_gazing at Sakoontal�_].--Alas! can this indeed be my Sakoontal�?
+    Clad in the weeds of widowhood, her face
+    Emaciate with fasting, her long hair
+    Twined in a single braid, her whole demeanor
+    Expressive of her purity of soul:
+    With patient constancy she thus prolongs
+    The vow to which my cruelty condemned her.
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_gazing at the King, who is pale with remorse_]. Surely this
+is not like my husband; yet who can it be that dares pollute by the
+pressure of his hand my child, whose amulet should protect him from a
+stranger's touch?
+
+CHILD [_going to his mother_].--Mother, who is this man that has been
+kissing me and calling me his son?
+
+KING.--My best beloved, I have indeed treated thee most cruelly, but am
+now once more thy fond and affectionate lover. Refuse not to acknowledge
+me as thy husband.
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_aside_].--Be of good cheer, my heart. The anger of Destiny
+is at last appeased. Heaven regards thee with compassion. But is he in
+very truth my husband?
+
+KING.--Behold me, best and loveliest of women,
+    Delivered from the cloud of fatal darkness
+    That erst oppressed my memory. Again
+    Behold us brought together by the grace
+    Of the great lord of Heaven. So the moon
+    Shines forth from dim eclipse, to blend his rays
+    With the soft lustre of his Rohin�.
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--May my husband be victorious------
+          [_She stops short, her voice choked with tears._
+
+KING.--O fair one, though the utterance of thy prayer
+    Be lost amid the torrent of thy tears,
+    Yet does the sight of thy fair countenance,
+    And of thy pallid lips, all unadorned
+    And colorless in sorrow for my absence,
+    Make me already more than conqueror.
+
+CHILD.--Mother, who is this man?
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--My child, ask the deity that presides over thy destiny.
+
+KING [_falling at Sakoontal�'s feet_].--Fairest of women, banish from
+thy mind
+    The memory of my cruelty; reproach
+    The fell delusion that overpowered my soul,
+    And blame not me, thy husband; 'tis the curse
+    Of him in whom the power of darkness reigns,
+    That he mistakes the gifts of those he loves
+    For deadly evils. Even though a friend
+    Should wreathe a garland on a blind man's brow,
+    Will he not cast it from him as a serpent?
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--Rise, my own husband, rise. Thou wast not to blame. My own
+evil deeds, committed in a former state of being, brought down this
+judgment upon me. How else could my husband, who was ever of a
+compassionate disposition, have acted so unfeelingly? [_The King
+rises_.] But tell me, my husband, how did the remembrance of thine
+unfortunate wife return to thy mind?
+
+KING.--As soon as my heart's anguish is removed, and its wounds are
+healed, I will tell thee all.
+    Oh! let me, fair one, chase away the drop
+    That still bedews the fringes of thine eye;
+    And let me thus efface the memory
+    Of every tear that stained thy velvet cheek,
+    Unnoticed and unheeded by thy lord,
+    When in his madness he rejected thee.
+          [_Wipes away the tear_.
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_seeing the signet-ring on his finger_].--Ah! my dear
+husband, is that the Lost Ring?
+
+KING.--Yes; the moment I recovered it, my memory was restored.
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--The ring was to blame in allowing itself to be lost at the
+very time when I was anxious to convince my noble husband of the reality
+of my marriage.
+
+KING.--Receive it back, as the beautiful twining plant receives again
+its blossom in token of its reunion with the spring.
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--Nay; I can never more place confidence in it. Let my
+husband retain it.
+
+          _Enter M�tali_.
+
+M�TALI.--I congratulate your Majesty. Happy are you in your reunion with
+your wife: happy are you in beholding the face of your son.
+
+KING.--Yes, indeed. My heart's dearest wish has borne sweet fruit. But
+tell me, M�tali, is this joyful event known to the great Indra?
+
+M�TALI [_smiling_].--What is unknown to the gods? But come with me,
+noble Prince, the divine Kasyapa graciously permits thee to be presented
+to him.
+
+KING.--Sakoontal�, take our child and lead the way. We will together go
+into the presence of the holy Sage.
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--I shrink from entering the august presence of the great
+Saint, even with my husband at my side.
+
+KING.--Nay; on such a joyous occasion it is highly proper. Come, come; I
+entreat thee.          [_All advance_.
+
+          _Kasyapa is discovered seated on a throne with his wife Aditi_.
+
+KASYAPA [_gazing at Dushyanta. To his wife_].--O Aditi, This is the
+mighty hero, King Dushyanta, Protector of the earth; who, at the head Of
+the celestial armies of thy son, Does battle with the enemies of heaven.
+Thanks to his bow, the thunderbolt of Indra Rests from its work, no more
+the minister Of death and desolation to the world, But a mere symbol of
+divinity.
+
+ADITI.--He bears in his noble form all the marks of dignity.
+
+M�TALI [_to Dushyanta_].--Sire, the venerable progenitors of the
+celestials are gazing at your Majesty with as much affection as if you
+were their son. You may advance towards them.
+
+KING.--Are these, O M�tali, the holy pair,
+    Offspring of Daksha and divine Mar�chi,
+    Children of Brahm�'s sons, by sages deemed
+    Sole fountain of celestial light, diffused
+    Through twelve effulgent orbs? Are these the pair
+    From whom the ruler of the triple world,
+    Sovereign of gods and lord of sacrifice,
+    Sprang into being? That immortal pair
+    Whom Vishnu, greater than the self-existent,
+    Chose for his parents, when, to save mankind,
+    He took upon himself the shape of mortals?
+
+M�TALI.--Even so.
+
+KING [_prostrating himself_].--Most august of beings, Dushyanta, content
+to have fulfilled the commands of your son Indra, offers you his
+adoration.
+
+KASYAPA.--My son, long may'st thou live, and happily may'st thou reign
+over the earth!
+
+ADITI.--My son, may'st thou ever be invincible in the field of battle!
+
+SAKOONTAL�.--I also prostrate myself before you, most adorable beings,
+and my child with me.
+
+KASYAPA.--My daughter,
+    Thy lord resembles Indra, and thy child
+    Is noble as Jayanta, Indra's son;
+    I have no worthier blessing left for thee,
+    May'st thou be faithful as the god's own wife!
+
+ADITI.--My daughter, may'st thou be always the object of thy husband's
+fondest love; and may thy son live long to be the joy of both his
+parents! Be seated.
+
+          [_All sit down in the presence of Kasyapa_.
+
+KASYAPA [_regarding each of them by turns_].--Hail to the beautiful
+Sakoontal�!
+    Hail to her noble son! and hail to thee,
+    Illustrious Prince! Rare triple combination
+    Of virtue, wealth, and energy united!
+
+KING.--Most venerable Kasyapa, by your favor all my desires were
+accomplished even before I was admitted to your presence. Never was
+mortal so honored that his boon should be granted ere it was solicited.
+Because,
+    Bloom before fruit, the clouds before the rain--
+    Cause first and then effect, in endless sequence,
+    Is the unchanging law of constant nature:
+    But, ere the blessing issued from thy lips,
+    The wishes of my heart were all fulfilled.
+
+M�TALI.--It is thus that the great progenitors of the world confer
+favors.
+
+KING.--Most reverend Sage, this thy handmaid was married to me by the
+Gandharva ceremony, and after a time was conducted to my palace by her
+relations. Meanwhile a fatal delusion seized me; I lost my memory and
+rejected her, thus committing a grievous offence against the venerable
+Kanwa, who is of thy divine race. Afterwards the sight of this ring
+restored my faculties, and brought back to my mind all the circumstances
+of my union with his daughter. But my conduct still seems to me
+incomprehensible;
+    As foolish as the fancies of a man
+    Who, when he sees an elephant, denies
+    That 'tis an elephant, yet afterwards,
+    When its huge bulk moves onward, hesitates,
+    Yet will not be convinced till it has passed
+    Forever from his sight, and left behind
+    No vestige of its presence save its footsteps.
+
+KASYAPA.--My son, cease to think thyself in fault. Even the delusion
+that possessed thy mind was not brought about by any act of thine.
+Listen to me.
+
+KING.--I am attentive.
+
+KASYAPA.--Know that when the nymph Menak�, the mother of Sakoontal�,
+became aware of her daughter's anguish in consequence of the loss of the
+ring at the nymphs' pool, and of thy subsequent rejection of her, she
+brought her and confided her to the care of Aditi. And I no sooner saw
+her than I ascertained by my divine power of meditation, that thy
+repudiation of thy poor faithful wife had been caused entirely by the
+curse of Durv�sas--not by thine own fault--and that the spell would
+terminate on the discovery of the ring.
+
+KING [_drawing a deep breath_].--Oh! what a weight is taken off my mind,
+now that my character is cleared of reproach.
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_aside_].--Joy! joy! My revered husband did not, then,
+reject me without good reason, though I have no recollection of the
+curse pronounced upon me. But, in all probability, I unconsciously
+brought it upon myself, when I was so distracted on being separated from
+my husband soon after our marriage. For I now remember that my two
+friends advised me not to fail to show the ring in case he should have
+forgotten me.
+
+KASYAPA.--At last, my daughter, thou art happy, and hast gained thy
+heart's desire. Indulge, then, no feeling of resentment against thy
+partner. See, now,
+    Though he repulsed thee, 'twas the sage's curse
+    That clouded his remembrance; 'twas the curse
+    That made thy tender husband harsh towards thee.
+    Soon as the spell was broken, and his soul
+    Delivered from its darkness, in a moment
+    Thou didst gain thine empire o'er his heart.
+    So on the tarnished surface of a mirror
+    No image is reflected, till the dust
+    That dimmed its wonted lustre is removed.
+
+KING.--Holy father, see here the hope of my royal race.
+          [_Takes his child by the hand_.
+
+KASYAPA.--Know that he, too, will become the monarch of the whole earth.
+Observe,
+    Soon, a resistless hero, shall he cross
+    The trackless ocean, borne above the waves
+    In an aerial car; and shall subdue
+    The earth's seven sea-girt isles.[44] Now has he gained,
+    As the brave tamer of the forest-beasts,
+    The title Sarva-damana; but then
+    Mankind shall hail him as King Bharata,
+    And call him the supporter of the world.
+
+KING.--We cannot but entertain the highest hopes of a child for whom
+your highness performed the natal rites.
+
+ADITI.--My revered husband, should not the intelligence be conveyed to
+Kanwa, that his daughter's wishes are fulfilled, and her happiness
+complete? He is Sakoontal�'s foster-father. Menak�, who is one of my
+attendants, is her mother, and dearly does she love her daughter.
+
+SAKOONTAL� [_aside_].--The venerable matron has given utterance to the
+very wish that was in my mind.
+
+KASYAPA.--His penances have gained for him the faculty of omniscience,
+and the whole scene is already present to his mind's eye.
+
+KING.--Then most assuredly he cannot be very angry with me.
+
+KASYAPA.--Nevertheless it becomes us to send him intelligence of this
+happy event, and hear his reply. What, ho there!
+
+PUPIL [_entering_].--Holy father, what are your commands?
+
+KASYAPA.--My good G�lava, delay not an instant, but hasten through the
+air and convey to the venerable Kanwa, from me, the happy news that the
+fatal spell has ceased, that Dushyanta's memory is restored, that his
+daughter Sakoontal� has a son, and that she is once more tenderly
+acknowledged by her husband.
+
+PUPIL.--Your highness's commands shall be obeyed.          [_Exit._
+
+KASYAPA.--And now, my dear son, take thy consort and thy child,
+re-ascend the car of Indra, and return to thy imperial capital.
+
+KING.--Most holy father, I obey.
+
+KASYAPA.--And accept this blessing--
+    For countless ages may the god of gods,
+    Lord of the atmosphere, by copious showers
+    Secure abundant harvest to thy subjects;
+    And thou by frequent offerings preserve
+    The Thunderer's friendship! Thus, by interchange
+    Of kindly actions, may you both confer
+    Unnumbered benefits on earth and heaven!
+
+KING.--Holy father, I will strive, as far as I am able, to attain this
+happiness.
+
+KASYAPA.--What other favor can I bestow on thee, my son?
+
+KING.--What other can I desire? If, however, you permit me to form
+another wish, I would humbly beg that the saying of the sage Bharata be
+fulfilled:--
+    May kings reign only for their subjects' weal!
+    May the divine Saraswati, the source
+    Of speech, and goddess of dramatic art,
+    Be ever honored by the great and wise!
+    And may the purple self-existent god,
+    Whose vital Energy pervades all space,
+    From future transmigrations save my soul!
+
+          [_Exeunt omnes_.
+
+
+[43] A sacred range of mountains lying along the Him�laya chain
+immediately adjacent to Kail�sa, the paradise of Kuvera, the god of
+wealth.
+
+[44] According to the mythical geography of the Hindoos the earth
+consisted of seven islands surrounded by seven seas.
+
+
+
+
+BALLADS OF HINDOSTAN
+
+
+MISCELLANEOUS POEMS
+
+BY
+
+TORU DUTT
+
+
+INTRODUCTION
+
+
+If Toru Dutt were alive, she would still be younger than any recognized
+European writer, and yet her fame, which is already considerable, has
+been entirely posthumous. Within the brief space of four years which now
+divides us from the date of her decease, her genius has been revealed to
+the world under many phases, and has been recognized throughout France
+and England. Her name, at least, is no longer unfamiliar in the ear of
+any well-read man or woman. But at the hour of her death she had
+published but one book, and that book had found but two reviewers in
+Europe. One of these, M. Andr� Theuriet, the well-known poet and
+novelist, gave the "Sheaf gleaned in French Fields" adequate praise in
+the "Revue des Deux Mondes"; but the other, the writer of the present
+notice, has a melancholy satisfaction in having been a little earlier
+still in sounding the only note of welcome which reached the dying
+poetess from England. It was while Professor W. Minto was editor of the
+"Examiner," that one day in August, 1876, in the very heart of the dead
+season for books, I happened to be in the office of that newspaper, and
+was upbraiding the whole body of publishers for issuing no books worth
+reviewing. At that moment the postman brought in a thin and sallow
+packet with a wonderful Indian postmark on it, and containing a most
+unattractive orange pamphlet of verse, printed at Bhowanipore, and
+entitled "A Sheaf gleaned in French Fields, by Toru Dutt." This shabby
+little book of some two hundred pages, without preface or introduction,
+seemed specially destined by its particular providence to find its way
+hastily into the waste-paper basket. I remember that Mr. Minto thrust it
+into my unwilling hands, and said "There! see whether you can't make
+something of that." A hopeless volume it seemed, with its queer type,
+published at Bhowanipore, printed at the Saptahiksambad Press! But when
+at last I took it out of my pocket, what was my surprise and almost
+rapture to open at such verse as this:--
+
+    "Still barred thy doors! The far East glows,
+      The morning wind blows fresh and free.
+    Should not the hour that wakes the rose
+            Awaken also thee?
+
+    "All look for thee, Love, Light, and Song,
+      Light in the sky deep red above,
+    Song, in the lark of pinions strong,
+            And in my heart, true Love.
+
+    "Apart we miss our nature's goal,
+      Why strive to cheat our destinies?
+    Was not my love made for thy soul?
+      Thy beauty for mine eyes?
+            No longer sleep,
+              Oh, listen now!
+            I wait and weep,
+              But where art thou?"
+
+When poetry is as good as this it does not much matter whether Rouveyre
+prints it upon Whatman paper, or whether it steals to light in blurred
+type from some press in Bhowanipore.
+
+Toru Dutt was the youngest of the three children of a high-caste Hindoo
+couple in Bengal. Her father, who survives them all, the Baboo Govin
+Chunder Dutt, is himself distinguished among his countrymen for the
+width of his views and the vigor of his intelligence. His only son,
+Abju, died in 1865, at the age of fourteen, and left his two younger
+sisters to console their parents. Aru, the elder daughter, born in 1854,
+was eighteen months senior to Toru, the subject of this memoir, who was
+born in Calcutta on March 4, 1856. With the exception of one year's
+visit to Bombay, the childhood of these girls was spent in Calcutta, at
+their father's garden-house. In a poem now printed for the first time,
+Toru refers to the scene of her earliest memories, the circling
+wilderness of foliage, the shining tank with the round leaves of the
+lilies, the murmuring dusk under the vast branches of the central
+casuarina-tree. Here, in a mystical retirement more irksome to a
+European in fancy than to an Oriental in reality, the brain of this
+wonderful child was moulded. She was pure Hindoo, full of the typical
+qualities of her race and blood, and, as the present volume shows us for
+the first time, preserving to the last her appreciation of the poetic
+side of her ancient religion, though faith itself in Vishnu and Siva had
+been cast aside with childish things and been replaced by a purer faith.
+Her mother fed her imagination with the old songs and legends of their
+people, stories which it was the last labor of her life to weave into
+English verse; but it would seem that the marvellous faculties of Toru's
+mind still slumbered, when, in her thirteenth year, her father decided
+to take his daughters to Europe to learn English and French. To the end
+of her days Toru was a better French than English scholar. She loved
+France best, she knew its literature best, she wrote its language with
+more perfect elegance. The Dutts arrived in Europe at the close of 1869,
+and the girls went to school, for the first and last time, at a French
+pension. They did not remain there very many months; their father took
+them to Italy and England with him, and finally they attended for a
+short time, but with great zeal and application, the lectures for women
+at Cambridge. In November, 1873, they went back to Bengal, and the four
+remaining years of Toru's life were spent in the old garden-house at
+Calcutta, in a feverish dream of intellectual effort and imaginative
+production. When we consider what she achieved in these forty-five
+months of seclusion, it is impossible to wonder that the frail and
+hectic body succumbed under so excessive a strain.
+
+She brought with her from Europe a store of knowledge that would have
+sufficed to make an English or French girl seem learned, but which in
+her case was simply miraculous. Immediately on her return she began to
+study Sanscrit with the same intense application which she gave to all
+her work, and mastering the language with extraordinary swiftness, she
+plunged into its mysterious literature. But she was born to write, and
+despairing of an audience in her own language, she began to adopt ours
+as a medium for her thought. Her first essay, published when she was
+eighteen, was a monograph, in the "Bengal Magazine," on Leconte de
+Lisle, a writer with whom she had a sympathy which is very easy to
+comprehend. The austere poet of "La Mort de Valmiki" was, obviously, a
+figure to whom the poet of "Sindhu" must needs be attracted on
+approaching European literature. This study, which was illustrated by
+translations into English verse, was followed by another on Jos�phin
+Soulary, in whom she saw more than her maturer judgment might have
+justified. There is something very interesting and now, alas! still more
+pathetic in these sturdy and workmanlike essays in unaided criticism.
+Still more solitary her work became, in July, 1874, when her only
+sister, Aru, died, at the age of twenty. She seems to have been no less
+amiable than her sister, and if gifted with less originality and a less
+forcible ambition, to have been finely accomplished. Both sisters were
+well-trained musicians, with full contralto voices, and Aru had a
+faculty for design which promised well. The romance of "Mlle. D'Arvers"
+was originally projected for Aru to illustrate, but no page of this book
+did Aru ever see.
+
+In 1876, as we have said, appeared that obscure first volume at
+Bhowanipore. The "Sheaf gleaned in French Fields" is certainly the most
+imperfect of Toru's writings, but it is not the least interesting. It is
+a wonderful mixture of strength and weakness, of genius overriding great
+obstacles, and of talent succumbing to ignorance and inexperience. That
+it should have been performed at all is so extraordinary that we forget
+to be surprised at its inequality. The English verse is sometimes
+exquisite; at other times the rules of our prosody are absolutely
+ignored, and it is obvious that the Hindoo poetess was chanting to
+herself a music that is discord in an English ear. The notes are no less
+curious, and to a stranger no less bewildering. Nothing could be more
+naive than the writer's ignorance at some points, or more startling than
+her learning at others. On the whole, the attainment of the book was
+simply astounding. It consisted of a selection of translations from
+nearly one hundred French poets, chosen by the poetess herself on a
+principle of her own which gradually dawned upon the careful reader. She
+eschewed the Classicist writers as though they had never existed. For
+her Andr� Chenier was the next name in chronological order after Du
+Bartas. Occasionally she showed a profundity of research that would have
+done no discredit to Mr. Saintsbury or "le doux Assellineau." She was
+ready to pronounce an opinion on Napol le Pyr�n�an or detect a
+plagiarism in Baudelaire. But she thought that Alexander Smith was still
+alive, and she was curiously vague about the career of Sainte-Beuve.
+This inequality of equipment was a thing inevitable to her isolation,
+and hardly worthy recording, except to show how laborious her mind was,
+and how quick to make the best of small resources.
+
+We have already seen that the "Sheaf gleaned in French Fields" attracted
+the very minimum of attention in England. In France it was talked about
+a little more. M. Garcin de Tassy, the famous Orientalist, who scarcely
+survived Toru by twelve months, spoke of it to Mlle. Clarisse Bader,
+author of a somewhat remarkable book on the position of women in ancient
+Indian society. Almost simultaneously this volume fell into the hands of
+Toru, and she was moved to translate it into English, for the use of
+Hindoos less instructed than herself. In January, 1877, she accordingly
+wrote to Mlle. Bader requesting her authorization, and received a prompt
+and kind reply. On the 18th of March Toru wrote again to this, her
+solitary correspondent in the world of European literature, and her
+letter, which has been preserved, shows that she had already descended
+into the valley of the shadow of death:--
+
+     "Ma constitution n'est pas forte; j'ai contract� une toux
+     opini�tre, il y a plus de deux ans, qui ne me quitte point.
+     Cependant j'esp�re mettre la main � l'oeuvre bient�t. Je ne peux
+     dire, mademoiselle, combien votre affection--car vous les aimez,
+     votre livre et votre lettre en t�moignent assez--pour mes
+     compatriotes et mon pays me touche; et je suis fi�re de pouvoir le
+     dire que les h�ro�nes de nos grandes �pop�es sont dignes de tout
+     honneur et de tout amour. Y a-t-il d'h�ro�ne plus touchante, plus
+     aimable que S�ta? Je ne le crois pas. _Quand j'entends ma m�re
+     chanter, le soir, les vieux chants de notre pays, je pleure presque
+     toujours_. La plainte de S�ta, quand, bannie pour la s�conde fois,
+     elle erre dans la vaste for�t, seule, le d�sespoir et l'effroi dans
+     l'�me, est si path�tique qu'il n'y a personne, je crois, qui puisse
+     l'entendre sans verser des larmes. Je vous envois sous ce pli deux
+     petites traductions du Sanscrit, cette belle langue antique.
+     Malheureusement j'ai �t� oblig�e de faire cesser mes traductions de
+     Sanscrit, il y a six mois. Ma sant� ne me permet pas de les
+     continuer."
+
+These simple and pathetic words, in which the dying poetess pours out
+her heart to the one friend she had, and that one gained too late, seem
+as touching and as beautiful as any strain of Marceline Valmore's
+immortal verse. In English poetry I do not remember anything that
+exactly parallels their resigned melancholy. Before the month of March
+was over, Toru had taken to her bed. Unable to write, she continued to
+read, strewing her sick-room with the latest European books, and
+entering with interest into the questions raised by the Soci�t�
+Asiatique of Paris, in its printed Transactions. On the 30th of July she
+wrote her last letter to Mlle. Clarisse Bader, and a month later, on
+August 30, 1877, at the age of twenty-one years six months and
+twenty-six days, she breathed her last in her father's house in
+Maniktollah street, Calcutta.
+
+In the first distraction of grief it seemed as though her unequalled
+promise had been entirely blighted, and as though she would be
+remembered only by her single book. But as her father examined her
+papers, one completed work after another revealed itself. First a
+selection from the sonnets of the Comte de Grammont, translated into
+English, turned up, and was printed in a Calcutta magazine; then some
+fragments of an English story, which were printed in another Calcutta
+magazine. Much more important, however, than any of these was a complete
+romance, written in French, being the identical story for which her
+sister Aru had proposed to make the illustrations. In the meantime Toru
+was no sooner dead than she began to be famous. In May, 1878, there
+appeared a second edition of the "Sheaf gleaned in French Fields," with
+a touching sketch of her death, by her father; and in 1879 was
+published, under the editorial care of Mlle. Clarisse Bader, the romance
+of "Le Journal de Mlle. D'Arvers," forming a handsome volume of 259
+pages. This book, begun, as it appears, before the family returned from
+Europe, and finished nobody knows when, is an attempt to describe scenes
+from modern French society, but it is less interesting as an experiment
+of the fancy, than as a revelation of the mind of a young Hindoo woman
+of genius. The story is simple, clearly told, and interesting; the
+studies of character have nothing French about them, but they are full
+of vigor and originality. The description of the hero is most
+characteristically Indian:--
+
+     "Il est beau en effet. Sa taille est haute, mais quelques-uns la
+     trouveraient mince; sa chevelure noire est boucl�e et tombe jusqu'�
+     la nuque; ses yeux noirs sont profonds et bien fendus; le front est
+     noble; la l�vre sup�rieure, couverte par une moustache naissante et
+     noire, est parfaitement model�e; son menton a quelque chose de
+     s�v�re; son teint est d'un blanc presque f�minin, ce qui d�note sa
+     haute naissance."
+
+In this description we seem to recognize some Surya or Soma of Hindoo
+mythology, and the final touch, meaningless as applied to a European,
+reminds us that in India whiteness of skin has always been a sign of
+aristocratic birth, from the days when it originally distinguished the
+conquering Aryas from the indigenous race of the Dasyous.
+
+As a literary composition "Mlle. D'Arvers" deserves high commendation.
+It deals with the ungovernable passion of two brothers for one placid
+and beautiful girl, a passion which leads to fratricide and madness.
+That it is a very melancholy and tragical story is obvious from this
+brief sketch of its contents, but it is remarkable for coherence and
+self-restraint no less than for vigor of treatment. Toru Dutt never
+sinks to melodrama in the course of her extraordinary tale, and the
+wonder is that she is not more often fantastic and unreal.
+
+But we believe that the original English poems will be ultimately found
+to constitute Toru's chief legacy to posterity. These ballads form the
+last and most matured of her writings, and were left so far fragmentary
+at her death that the fourth and fifth in her projected series of nine
+were not to be discovered in any form among her papers. It is probable
+that she had not even commenced them. Her father, therefore, to give a
+certain continuity to the series, has filled up these blanks with two
+stories from the "Vishnupurana," which originally appeared respectively
+in the "Calcutta Review" and in the "Bengal Magazine." These are
+interesting, but a little rude in form, and they have not the same
+peculiar value as the rhymed octo-syllabic ballads. In these last we see
+Toru no longer attempting vainly, though heroically, to compete with
+European literature on its own ground, but turning to the legends of her
+own race and country for inspiration. No modern Oriental has given us so
+strange an insight into the conscience of the Asiatic as is presented in
+the story of "Preh�ad," or so quaint a piece of religious fancy as the
+ballad of "Jogadhya Uma." The poetess seems in these verses to be
+chanting to herself those songs of her mother's race to which she always
+turned with tears of pleasure. They breathe a Vedic solemnity and
+simplicity of temper, and are singularly devoid of that littleness and
+frivolity which seem, if we may judge by a slight experience, to be the
+bane of modern India.
+
+As to the merely technical character of these poems, it may be suggested
+that in spite of much in them that is rough and inchoate, they show that
+Toru was advancing in her mastery of English verse. Such a stanza as
+this, selected out of many no less skilful, could hardly be recognized
+as the work of one by whom the language was a late acquirement:--
+
+    "What glorious trees! The sombre saul,
+      On which the eye delights to rest--
+    The betel-nut, a pillar tall,
+      With feathery branches for a crest--
+    The light-leaved tamarind spreading wide--
+      The pale faint-scented bitter neem,
+    The seemul, gorgeous as a bride,
+      With flowers that have the ruby's gleam."
+
+In other passages, of course, the text reads like a translation from
+some stirring ballad, and we feel that it gives but a faint and
+discordant echo of the music welling in Toru's brain. For it must
+frankly be confessed that in the brief May-day of her existence she had
+not time to master our language as Blanco White did, or as Chamisso
+mastered German. To the end of her days, fluent and graceful as she was,
+she was not entirely conversant with English, especially with the
+colloquial turns of modern speech. Often a very fine thought is spoiled
+for hypercritical ears by the queer turn of expression which she has
+innocently given to it. These faults are found to a much smaller degree
+in her miscellaneous poems. Her sonnets seem to me to be of great
+beauty, and her longer piece, entitled "Our Casuarina Tree," needs no
+apology for its rich and mellifluous numbers.
+
+It is difficult to exaggerate when we try to estimate what we have lost
+in the premature death of Toru Dutt. Literature has no honors which need
+have been beyond the grasp of a girl who at the age of twenty-one, and
+in languages separated from her own by so deep a chasm, had produced so
+much of lasting worth. And her courage and fortitude were worthy of her
+intelligence. Among "last words" of celebrated people, that which her
+father has recorded, "It is only the physical pain that makes me cry,"
+is not the least remarkable, or the least significant of strong
+character. It was to a native of our island, and to one ten years senior
+to Toru, to whom it was said, in words more appropriate, surely, to her
+than to Oldham,
+
+    "Thy generous fruits, though gathered ere their prime,
+    Still showed a quickness, and maturing time
+    But mellows what we write to the dull sweets of Rime."
+
+That mellow sweetness was all that Toru lacked to perfect her as an
+English poet, and of no other Oriental who has ever lived can the same
+be said. When the history of the literature of our country comes to be
+written, there is sure to be a page in it dedicated to this fragile
+exotic blossom of song.
+
+EDMUND W. GOSSE.
+
+_London, 1881_.
+
+
+
+
+BALLADS OF HINDOSTAN
+
+JOGADHYA UMA
+
+
+    "Shell-bracelets ho! Shell-bracelets ho!
+      Fair maids and matrons come and buy!"
+    Along the road, in morning's glow,
+      The pedler raised his wonted cry.
+    The road ran straight, a red, red line,
+      To Khirogram, for cream renowned,
+    Through pasture-meadows where the kine,
+      In knee-deep grass, stood magic bound
+    And half awake, involved in mist,
+      That floated in dun coils profound,
+    Till by the sudden sunbeams kissed
+      Rich rainbow hues broke all around.
+
+    "Shell-bracelets ho! Shell-bracelets ho!"
+      The roadside trees still dripped with dew,
+    And hung their blossoms like a show.
+      Who heard the cry? 'Twas but a few,
+    A ragged herd-boy, here and there,
+      With his long stick and naked feet;
+    A ploughman wending to his care,
+      The field from which he hopes the wheat;
+    An early traveller, hurrying fast
+      To the next town; an urchin slow
+    Bound for the school; these heard and passed,
+      Unheeding all--"Shell-bracelets ho!"
+
+    Pellucid spread a lake-like tank
+      Beside the road now lonelier still,
+    High on three sides arose the bank
+      Which fruit-trees shadowed at their will;
+    Upon the fourth side was the Ghat,
+      With its broad stairs of marble white,
+    And at the entrance-arch there sat,
+      Full face against the morning light,
+    A fair young woman with large eyes,
+      And dark hair falling to her zone,
+    She heard the pedler's cry arise,
+      And eager seemed his ware to own.
+
+    "Shell-bracelets ho! See, maiden see!
+      The rich enamel sunbeam kissed!
+    Happy, oh happy, shalt thou be,
+      Let them but clasp that slender wrist;
+    These bracelets are a mighty charm,
+      They keep a lover ever true,
+    And widowhood avert, and harm,
+      Buy them, and thou shalt never rue.
+    Just try them on!"--She stretched her hand,
+      "Oh what a nice and lovely fit!
+    No fairer hand, in all the land,
+      And lo! the bracelet matches it."
+
+    Dazzled the pedler on her gazed
+      Till came the shadow of a fear,
+    While she the bracelet arm upraised
+      Against the sun to view more clear.
+    Oh she was lovely, but her look
+      Had something of a high command
+    That filled with awe. Aside she shook
+      Intruding curls by breezes fanned
+    And blown across her brows and face,
+      And asked the price, which when she heard
+    She nodded, and with quiet grace
+      For payment to her home referred.
+
+    "And where, O maiden, is thy house?
+      But no, that wrist-ring has a tongue,
+    No maiden art thou, but a spouse,
+      Happy, and rich, and fair, and young."
+    "Far otherwise, my lord is poor,
+      And him at home thou shalt not find;
+    Ask for my father; at the door
+      Knock loudly; he is deaf, but kind.
+    Seest thou that lofty gilded spire
+      Above these tufts of foliage green?
+    That is our place; its point of fire
+      Will guide thee o'er the tract between."
+
+    "That is the temple spire."--"Yes, there
+      We live; my father is the priest,
+    The manse is near, a building fair
+      But lowly, to the temple's east.
+    When thou hast knocked, and seen him, say,
+      His daughter, at Dhamaser Ghat,
+    Shell-bracelets bought from thee to-day,
+      And he must pay so much for that.
+    Be sure, he will not let thee pass
+      Without the value, and a meal.
+    If he demur, or cry alas!
+      No money hath he--then reveal,
+
+    Within the small box, marked with streaks
+      Of bright vermilion, by the shrine,
+    The key whereof has lain for weeks
+      Untouched, he'll find some coin--'tis mine.
+    That will enable him to pay
+      The bracelet's price, now fare thee well!"
+    She spoke, the pedler went away,
+      Charmed with her voice, as by some spell;
+    While she left lonely there, prepared
+      To plunge into the water pure,
+    And like a rose her beauty bared,
+      From all observance quite secure.
+
+    Not weak she seemed, nor delicate,
+      Strong was each limb of flexile grace,
+    And full the bust; the mien elate,
+      Like hers, the goddess of the chase
+    On Latmos hill--and oh, the face
+      Framed in its cloud of floating hair,
+    No painter's hand might hope to trace
+      The beauty and the glory there!
+    Well might the pedler look with awe,
+      For though her eyes were soft, a ray
+    Lit them at times, which kings who saw
+      Would never dare to disobey.
+
+    Onwards through groves the pedler sped
+      Till full in front the sunlit spire
+    Arose before him. Paths which led
+      To gardens trim in gay attire
+    Lay all around. And lo! the manse,
+      Humble but neat with open door!
+    He paused, and blest the lucky chance
+      That brought his bark to such a shore.
+    Huge straw ricks, log huts full of grain,
+      Sleek cattle, flowers, a tinkling bell,
+    Spoke in a language sweet and plain,
+      "Here smiling Peace and Plenty dwell."
+
+    Unconsciously he raised his cry,
+      "Shell-bracelets ho!" And at his voice
+    Looked out the priest, with eager eye,
+      And made his heart at once rejoice.
+    "Ho, _Sankha_ pedler! Pass not by,
+      But step thou in, and share the food
+    Just offered on our altar high,
+      If thou art in a hungry mood.
+    Welcome are all to this repast!
+      The rich and poor, the high and low!
+    Come, wash thy feet, and break thy fast,
+      Then on thy journey strengthened go."
+
+    "Oh thanks, good priest! Observance due
+      And greetings! May thy name be blest!
+    I came on business, but I knew,
+      Here might be had both food and rest
+    Without a charge; for all the poor
+      Ten miles around thy sacred shrine
+    Know that thou keepest open door,
+      And praise that generous hand of thine:
+    But let my errand first be told,
+      For bracelets sold to thine this day,
+    So much thou owest me in gold,
+      Hast thou the ready cash to pay?
+
+    The bracelets were enamelled--so
+      The price is high."--"How! Sold to mine?
+    Who bought them, I should like to know."
+      "Thy daughter, with the large black eyne,
+    Now bathing at the marble ghat."
+      Loud laughed the priest at this reply,
+    "I shall not put up, friend, with that;
+      No daughter in the world have I,
+    An only son is all my stay;
+      Some minx has played a trick, no doubt,
+    But cheer up, let thy heart be gay.
+      Be sure that I shall find her out."
+
+    "Nay, nay, good father, such a face
+      Could not deceive, I must aver;
+    At all events, she knows thy place,
+      'And if my father should demur
+    To pay thee'--thus she said--'or cry
+      He has no money, tell him straight
+    The box vermilion-streaked to try,
+      That's near the shrine,'" "Well, wait, friend, wait!"
+    The priest said thoughtful, and he ran
+      And with the open box came back,
+    "Here is the price exact, my man,
+      No surplus over, and no lack.
+
+    How strange! how strange! Oh blest art thou
+      To have beheld her, touched her hand,
+    Before whom Vishnu's self must bow,
+      And Brahma and his heavenly band!
+    Here have I worshipped her for years
+      And never seen the vision bright;
+    Vigils and fasts and secret tears
+      Have almost quenched my outward sight;
+    And yet that dazzling form and face
+      I have not seen, and thou, dear friend,
+    To thee, unsought for, comes the grace,
+      What may its purport be, and end?
+
+    How strange! How strange! Oh happy thou!
+      And couldst thou ask no other boon
+    Than thy poor bracelet's price? That brow
+      Resplendent as the autumn moon
+    Must have bewildered thee, I trow,
+      And made thee lose thy senses all."
+    A dim light on the pedler now
+      Began to dawn; and he let fall
+    His bracelet basket in his haste,
+      And backward ran the way he came;
+    What meant the vision fair and chaste,
+      Whose eyes were they--those eyes of flame?
+
+    Swift ran the pedler as a hind,
+      The old priest followed on his trace,
+    They reached the Ghat but could not find
+      The lady of the noble face.
+    The birds were silent in the wood,
+      The lotus flowers exhaled a smell
+    Faint, over all the solitude,
+      A heron as a sentinel
+    Stood by the bank. They called--in vain,
+      No answer came from hill or fell,
+    The landscape lay in slumber's chain,
+      E'en Echo slept within her cell.
+
+    Broad sunshine, yet a hush profound!
+      They turned with saddened hearts to go;
+    Then from afar there came a sound
+      Of silver bells;--the priest said low,
+    "O Mother, Mother, deign to hear,
+      The worship-hour has rung; we wait
+    In meek humility and fear.
+      Must we return home desolate?
+    Oh come, as late thou cam'st unsought,
+      Or was it but an idle dream?
+    Give us some sign if it was not,
+      A word, a breath, or passing gleam."
+
+    Sudden from out the water sprung
+      A rounded arm, on which they saw
+    As high the lotus buds among
+      It rose, the bracelet white, with awe.
+    Then a wide ripple tost and swung
+      The blossoms on that liquid plain,
+    And lo! the arm so fair and young
+      Sank in the waters down again.
+    They bowed before the mystic Power,
+      And as they home returned in thought,
+    Each took from thence a lotus flower
+      In memory of the day and spot.
+
+    Years, centuries, have passed away,
+      And still before the temple shrine
+    Descendants of the pedler pay
+      Shell-bracelets of the old design
+    As annual tribute. Much they own
+      In lands and gold--but they confess
+    From that eventful day alone
+      Dawned on their industry--success.
+    Absurd may be the tale I tell,
+      Ill-suited to the marching times,
+    I loved the lips from which it fell,
+      So let it stand among my rhymes.
+
+
+
+
+BUTTOO
+
+
+    "Ho! Master of the wondrous art!
+    Instruct me in fair archery,
+    And buy for aye--a grateful heart
+    That will not grudge to give thy fee."
+    Thus spoke a lad with kindling eyes,
+    A hunter's lowborn son was he--
+    To Dronacharjya, great and wise,
+    Who sat with princes round his knee.
+
+    Up Time's fair stream far back--oh far,
+    The great wise teacher must be sought!
+    The Kurus had not yet in war
+    With the Pandava brethren fought.
+    In peace, at Dronacharjya's feet,
+    Magic and archery they learned,
+    A complex science, which we meet
+    No more, with ages past inurned.
+
+    "And who art thou," the teacher said,
+    "My science brave to learn so fain?
+    Which many kings who wear the thread
+    Have asked to learn of me in vain."
+    "My name is Buttoo," said the youth,
+    "A hunter's son, I know not Fear;"
+    The teacher answered, smiling smooth,
+    "Then know him from this time, my dear."
+
+    Unseen the magic arrow came,
+    Amidst the laughter and the scorn
+    Of royal youths--like lightning flame
+    Sudden and sharp. They blew the horn,
+    As down upon the ground he fell,
+    Not hurt, but made a jest and game;--
+    He rose--and waved a proud farewell,
+    But cheek and brow grew red with shame.
+
+    And lo--a single, single tear
+    Dropped from his eyelash as he past,
+    "My place I gather is not here;
+    No matter--what is rank or caste?
+    In us is honor, or disgrace,
+    Not out of us," 'twas thus he mused,
+    "The question is--not wealth or place,
+    But gifts well used, or gifts abused."
+
+    "And I shall do my best to gain
+    The science that man will not teach,
+    For life is as a shadow vain,
+    Until the utmost goal we reach
+    To which the soul points. I shall try
+    To realize my waking dream,
+    And what if I should chance to die?
+    None miss one bubble from a stream."
+
+    So thinking, on and on he went,
+    Till he attained the forest's verge,
+    The garish day was well-nigh spent,
+    Birds had already raised its dirge.
+    Oh what a scene! How sweet and calm!
+    It soothed at once his wounded pride,
+    And on his spirit shed a balm
+    That all its yearnings purified.
+
+    What glorious trees! The sombre saul
+    On which the eye delights to rest,
+    The betel-nut--a pillar tall,
+    With feathery branches for a crest,
+    The light-leaved tamarind spreading wide,
+    The pale faint-scented bitter neem,
+    The seemul, gorgeous as a bride,
+    With flowers that have the ruby's gleam,
+
+    The Indian fig's pavilion tent
+    In which whole armies might repose,
+    With here and there a little rent,
+    The sunset's beauty to disclose,
+    The bamboo boughs that sway and swing
+    'Neath bulbuls as the south wind blows,
+    The mango-tope, a close dark ring,
+    Home of the rooks and clamorous crows,
+
+    The champac, bok, and South-sea pine,
+    The nagessur with pendant flowers
+    Like ear-rings--and the forest vine
+    That clinging over all, embowers,
+    The sirish famed in Sanscrit song
+    Which rural maidens love to wear,
+    The peepul giant-like and strong,
+    The bramble with its matted hair,
+
+    All these, and thousands, thousands more,
+    With helmet red, or golden crown,
+    Or green tiara, rose before
+    The youth in evening's shadows brown.
+    He passed into the forest--there
+    New sights of wonder met his view,
+    A waving Pampas green and fair
+    All glistening with the evening dew.
+
+    How vivid was the breast-high grass!
+    Here waved in patches, forest corn--
+    Here intervened a deep morass--
+    Here arid spots of verdure shorn
+    Lay open--rock or barren sand--
+    And here again the trees arose
+    Thick clustering--a glorious band
+    Their tops still bright with sunset glows.--
+
+    Stirred in the breeze the crowding boughs,
+    And seemed to welcome him with signs,
+    Onwards and on--till Buttoo's brows
+    Are gemmed with pearls, and day declines.
+    Then in a grassy open space
+    He sits and leans against a tree,
+    To let the wind blow on his face
+    And look around him leisurely.
+
+    Herds, and still herds, of timid deer
+    Were feeding in the solitude,
+    They knew not man, and felt no fear,
+    And heeded not his neighborhood,
+    Some young ones with large eyes and sweet
+    Came close, and rubbed their foreheads smooth
+    Against his arms, and licked his feet,
+    As if they wished his cares to soothe.
+
+    "They touch me," he exclaimed with joy,
+    "They have no pride of caste like men,
+    They shrink not from the hunter-boy,
+    Should not my home be with them then?
+    Here in this forest let me dwell,
+    With these companions innocent,
+    And learn each science and each spell
+    All by myself in banishment.
+
+    A calm, calm life, and it shall be
+    Its own exceeding great reward!
+    No thoughts to vex in all I see,
+    No jeers to bear or disregard;--
+    All creatures and inanimate things
+    Shall be my tutors; I shall learn
+    From beast, and fish, and bird with wings,
+    And rock, and stream, and tree, and fern.
+
+    With this resolve, he soon began
+    To build a hut, of reeds and leaves,
+    And when that needful work was done
+    He gathered in his store, the sheaves
+    Of forest corn, and all the fruit,
+    Date, plum, guava, he could find,
+    And every pleasant nut and root
+    By Providence for man designed,
+
+    A statue next of earth he made,
+    An image of the teacher wise,
+    So deft he laid, the light and shade,
+    On figure, forehead, face and eyes,
+    That any one who chanced to view
+    That image tall might soothly swear,
+    If he great Dronacharjya knew,
+    The teacher in his flesh was there.
+
+    Then at the statue's feet he placed
+    A bow, and arrows tipped with steel,
+    With wild-flower garlands interlaced,
+    And hailed the figure in his zeal
+    As Master, and his head he bowed,
+    A pupil reverent from that hour
+    Of one who late had disallowed
+    The claim, in pride of place and power.
+
+    By strained sense, by constant prayer,
+    By steadfastness of heart and will,
+    By courage to confront and dare,
+    All obstacles he conquered still;
+    A conscience clear--a ready hand,
+    Joined to a meek humility,
+    Success must everywhere command,
+    How could he fail who had all three!
+
+    And now, by tests assured, he knows
+    His own God-gifted wondrous might,
+    Nothing to any man he owes,
+    Unaided he has won the fight;
+    Equal to gods themselves--above
+    Wishmo and Drona--for his worth
+    His name, he feels, shall be with love
+    Reckoned with great names of the earth.
+
+    Yet lacks he not, in reverence
+    To Dronacharjya, who declined
+    To teach him--nay, with e'en offence
+    That well might wound a noble mind,
+    Drove him away;--for in his heart
+    Meek, placable, and ever kind,
+    Resentment had not any part,
+    And Malice never was enshrined.
+
+    One evening, on his work intent,
+    Alone he practised Archery,
+    When lo! the bow proved false and sent
+    The arrow from its mark awry;
+    Again he tried--and failed again;
+    Why was it? Hark!--A wild dog's bark!
+    An evil omen:--it was plain
+    Some evil on his path hung dark!
+
+    Thus many times he tried and failed,
+    And still that lean, persistent dog
+    At distance, like some spirit wailed,
+    Safe in the cover of a fog.
+    His nerves unstrung, with many a shout
+    He strove to frighten it away,
+    It would not go--but roamed about,
+    Howling, as wolves howl for their prey.
+
+    Worried and almost in a rage,
+    One magic shaft at last he sent,
+    A sample of his science sage,
+    To quiet but the noises meant.
+    Unerring to its goal it flew,
+    No death ensued, no blood was dropped;
+    But by the hush the young man knew
+    At last that howling noise had stopped.
+
+    It happened on this very day
+    That the Pandava princes came
+    With all the Kuru princes gay
+    To beat the woods and hunt the game.
+    Parted from others in the chase,
+    Arjuna brave the wild dog found--
+    Stuck still the shaft--but not a trace
+    Of hurt, though tongue and lip were bound.
+
+    "Wonder of wonders! Didst not thou
+    O Dronacharjya, promise me
+    Thy crown in time should deck my brow
+    And I be first in archery?
+    Lo! here, some other thou hast taught
+    A magic spell--to all unknown;
+    Who has in secret from thee bought
+    The knowledge, in this arrow shown!"
+
+    Indignant thus Arjuna spake
+    To his great Master when they met--
+    "My word, my honor, is at stake,
+    Judge not, Arjuna, judge not yet.
+    Come, let us see the dog "--and straight
+    They followed up the creature's trace.
+    They found it, in the self-same state,
+    Dumb, yet unhurt--near Buttoo's place.
+
+    A hut--_a_ statue--and a youth
+    In the dim forest--what mean these?
+    They gazed in wonder, for in sooth
+    The thing seemed full of mysteries.
+    "Now who art thou that dar'st to raise
+    Mine image in the wilderness?
+    Is it for worship and for praise?
+    What is thine object? speak, confess,"
+
+    "Oh Master, unto thee I came
+    To learn thy science. Name or pelf
+    I had not, so was driven with shame,
+    And here I learn all by myself.
+    But still as Master thee revere,
+    For who so great in archery!
+    Lo, all my inspiration here,
+    And all my knowledge is from thee."
+
+    "If I am Master, now thou hast
+    Finished thy course, give me my due.
+    Let all the past, be dead and past,
+    Henceforth be ties between us new."
+    "All that I have, O Master mine,
+    All I shall conquer by my skill,
+    Gladly shall I to thee resign,
+    Let me but know thy gracious will,"
+
+    "Is it a promise?" "Yea, I swear
+    So long as I have breath and life
+    To give thee all thou wilt," "Beware!
+    Rash promise ever ends in strife."
+    "Thou art my Master--ask! oh ask!
+    From thee my inspiration came,
+    Thou canst not set too hard a task,
+    Nor aught refuse I, free from blame."
+
+    "If it be so--Arjuna hear!"
+    Arjuna and the youth were dumb,
+    "For thy sake, loud I ask and clear,
+    Give me, O youth, thy right-hand thumb.
+    I promised in my faithfulness
+    No equal ever shall there be
+    To thee, Arjuna--and I press
+    For this sad recompense--for thee."
+
+    Glanced the sharp knife one moment high,
+    The severed thumb was on the sod,
+    There was no tear in Buttoo's eye,
+    He left the matter with his God.
+    "For this"--said Dronacharjya--"Fame
+    Shall sound thy praise from sea to sea,
+    And men shall ever link thy name
+    With Self-help, Truth, and Modesty."
+
+
+
+
+SINDHU
+
+PART I
+
+
+    Deep in the forest shades there dwelt
+      A _Muni_ and his wife,
+    Blind, gray-haired, weak, they hourly felt
+      Their slender hold on life.
+
+    No friends had they, no help or stay,
+      Except an only boy,
+    A bright-eyed child, his laughter gay,
+      Their leaf-hut filled with joy.
+
+    Attentive, duteous, loving, kind,
+      Thoughtful, sedate, and calm,
+    He waited on his parents blind,
+      Whose days were like a psalm.
+
+    He roamed the woods for luscious fruits,
+      He brought them water pure,
+    He cooked their simple mess of roots,
+      Content to live obscure.
+
+    To fretful questions, answers mild
+      He meekly ever gave,
+    If they reproved, he only smiled,
+      He loved to be their slave.
+
+    Not that to him they were austere,
+      But age is peevish still,
+    Dear to their hearts he was--so dear,
+      That none his place might fill.
+    They called him Sindhu, and his name
+      Was ever on their tongue,
+    And he, nor cared for wealth nor fame,
+      Who dwelt his own among.
+
+    A belt of _Bela_-trees hemmed round
+      The cottage small and rude,
+    If peace on earth was ever found
+      'Twas in that solitude.
+
+
+
+
+PART II
+
+
+    Great Dasarath, the King of Oudh,
+      Whom all men love and fear,
+    With elephants and horses proud
+      Went forth to hunt the deer.
+
+    O gallant was the long array!
+      Pennons and plumes were seen,
+    And swords that mirrored back the day,
+      And spears and axes keen.
+
+    Rang trump, and conch, and piercing fife,
+      Woke Echo from her bed!
+    The solemn woods with sounds were rife
+      As on the pageant sped.
+
+    Hundreds, nay thousands, on they went!
+      The wild beasts fled away!
+    Deer ran in herds, and wild boars spent
+      Became an easy prey.
+
+    Whirring the peacocks from the brake
+      With Argus wings arose,
+    Wild swans abandoned pool and lake
+      For climes beyond the snows.
+
+    From tree to tree the monkeys sprung,
+      Unharmed and unpursued,
+    As louder still the trumpets rung
+      And startled all the wood.
+
+    The porcupines and such small game
+      Unnoted fled at will,
+    The weasel only caught to tame
+      From fissures in the hill.
+
+    Slunk light the tiger from the bank,
+      But sudden turned to bay!
+    When he beheld the serried rank
+      That barred his tangled way.
+    Uprooting fig-trees on their path,
+      And trampling shrubs and flowers,
+    Wild elephants, in fear and wrath,
+      Burst through, like moving towers.
+
+    Lowering their horns in crescents grim
+      Whene'er they turned about,
+    Retreated into coverts dim
+      The bisons' fiercer rout.
+
+    And in this mimic game of war
+      In bands dispersed and passed
+    The royal train--some near, some far,
+      As day closed in at last.
+
+    Where was the king? He left his friends
+      At mid-day, it was known,
+    And now that evening fast descends
+      Where was he? All alone.
+
+    Curving, the river formed a lake,
+      Upon whose bank he stood, I
+    No noise the silence there to break,
+      Or mar the solitude.
+
+    Upon the glassy surface fell
+      The last beams of the day,
+    Like fiery darts, that lengthening swell,
+      As breezes wake and play.
+
+    Osiers and willows on the edge
+      And purple buds and red,
+    Leant down--and 'mid the pale green sedge
+      The lotus raised its head.
+
+    And softly, softly, hour by hour
+      Light faded, and a veil
+    Fell over tree, and wave, and flower,
+      On came the twilight pale.
+
+    Deeper and deeper grew the shades,
+      Stars glimmered in the sky,
+    The nightingale along the glades
+      Raised her preluding cry.
+    What is that momentary flash?
+      A gleam of silver scales
+    Reveals the _Mahseer_;--then a splash,
+      And calm again prevails.
+
+    As darkness settled like a pall
+      The eye would pierce in vain,
+    The fireflies gemmed the bushes all,
+      Like fiery drops of rain.
+
+    Pleased with the scene--and knowing not
+      Which way, alas! to go,
+    The monarch lingered on the spot--
+      The lake spread bright below.
+
+    He lingered, when--oh hark! oh hark
+      What sound salutes his ear!
+    A roebuck drinking in the dark,
+      Not hunted, nor in fear.
+
+    Straight to the stretch his bow he drew,
+      That bow ne'er missed its aim,
+    Whizzing the deadly arrow flew,
+      Ear-guided, on the game!
+
+    Ah me! What means this?--Hark, a cry,
+      A feeble human wail,
+    "Oh God!" it said--"I die--I die,
+      Who'll carry home the pail?"
+
+    Startled, the monarch forward ran,
+      And then there met his view
+    A sight to freeze in any man
+      The warm blood coursing true.
+
+    A child lay dying on the grass,
+      A pitcher by his side,
+    Poor Sindhu was the child, alas!
+      His parents' stay and pride.
+
+    His bow and quiver down to fling,
+      And lift the wounded boy,
+    A moment's work was with the king.
+      Not dead--that was a joy!
+    He placed the child's head on his lap,
+      And 'ranged the blinding hair,
+    The blood welled fearful from the gap
+      On neck and bosom fair.
+
+    He dashed cold water on the face,
+      He chafed the hands, with sighs,
+    Till sense revived, and he could trace
+      Expression in the eyes.
+
+    Then mingled with his pity, fear--
+      In all this universe
+    What is so dreadful as to hear
+      A Brahman's dying curse!
+
+    So thought the king, and on his brow
+      The beads of anguish spread,
+    And Sindhu, fully conscious now,
+      The anguish plainly read.
+
+    "What dost thou fear, O mighty king?
+      For sure a king thou art!
+    Why should thy bosom anguish wring?
+      No crime was in thine heart!
+
+    Unwittingly the deed was done;
+      It is my destiny,
+    O fear not thou, but pity one
+      Whose fate is thus to die.
+
+    No curses, no!--I bear no grudge,
+      Not thou my blood hast spilt,
+    Lo! here before the unseen Judge,
+      Thee I absolve from guilt.
+
+    The iron, red-hot as it burns,
+      Burns those that touch it too,
+    Not such my nature--for it spurns,
+      Thank God, the like to do.
+
+    Because I suffer, should I give
+      Thee, king, a needless pain?
+    Ah, no! I die, but may'st thou live,
+      And cleansed from every stain!"
+    Struck with these words, and doubly grieved
+      At what his hands had done,
+    The monarch wept, as weeps bereaved
+      A man his only son.
+
+    "Nay, weep not so," resumed the child,
+      "But rather let me say
+    My own sad story, sin-defiled,
+      And why I die to-day!
+
+    Picking a living in our sheaves,
+      And happy in their loves,
+    Near, 'mid a peepul's quivering leaves,
+      There lived a pair of doves.
+
+    Never were they two separate,
+      And lo, in idle mood,
+    I took a sling and ball, elate
+      In wicked sport and rude--
+
+    And killed one bird--it was the male,
+      Oh cruel deed and base!
+    The female gave a plaintive wail
+      And looked me in the face!
+
+    The wail and sad reproachful look
+      In plain words seemed to say,
+    A widowed life I cannot brook,
+      The forfeit thou must pay.
+
+    What was my darling's crime that thou
+      Him wantonly shouldst kill?
+    The curse of blood is on thee now,
+      Blood calls for red blood still.
+
+    And so I die--a bloody death--
+      But not for this I mourn,
+    To feel the world pass with my breath
+      I gladly could have borne,
+
+    But for my parents, who are blind,
+      And have no other stay--
+    This, this, weighs sore upon my mind,
+      And fills me with dismay.
+
+    Upon the eleventh day of the moon
+      They keep a rigorous fast,
+    All yesterday they fasted; soon
+      For water and repast
+
+    They shall upon me feebly call!
+      Ah, must they call in vain?
+    Bear thou the pitcher, friend--'tis all
+      I ask--down that steep lane."
+
+    He pointed--ceased--then sudden died!
+      The king took up the corpse,
+    And with the pitcher slowly hied,
+      Attended by Remorse,
+
+    Down the steep lane--unto the hut
+      Girt round with _Bela_-trees;
+    Gleamed far a light--the door not shut
+      Was open to the breeze.
+
+
+
+
+PART III
+
+
+    "Oh why does not our child return?
+      Too long he surely stays."--
+    Thus to the _Muni_, blind and stern,
+      His partner gently says.
+
+    "For fruits and water when he goes
+      He never stays so long,
+    Oh can it be, beset by foes,
+      He suffers cruel wrong?
+
+    Some distance he has gone, I fear,
+      A more circuitous round--
+    Yet why should he? The fruits are near,
+      The river near our bound.
+
+    I die of thirst--it matters not
+      If Sindhu be but safe,
+    What if he leave us, and this spot,
+      Poor birds in cages chafe.
+
+    Peevish and fretful oft we are--
+      Ah, no--that cannot be:
+    Of our blind eyes he is the star,
+      Without him, what were we?
+
+    Too much he loves us to forsake,
+      But something ominous,
+    Here in my heart, a dreadful ache,
+      Says, he is gone from us.
+
+    Why do my bowels for him yearn,
+      What ill has crossed his path?
+    Blind, helpless, whither shall we turn,
+      Or how avert the wrath?
+
+    Lord of my soul--what means my pain?
+      This horrid terror--like
+    Some cloud that hides a hurricane;
+      Hang not, O lightning--strike!"
+
+    Thus while she spake, the king drew near
+      With haggard look and wild,
+    Weighed down with grief, and pale with fear,
+      Bearing the lifeless child.
+
+    Rustled the dry leaves 'neath his foot,
+      And made an eerie sound,
+    A neighboring owl began to hoot,
+      All else was still around.
+
+    At the first rustle of the leaves
+      The _Muni_ answered clear,
+    "Lo, here he is--oh wherefore grieves
+      Thy soul, my partner dear?"
+
+    The words distinct, the monarch heard,
+      He could no further go,
+    His nature to its depths was stirred,
+      He stopped in speechless woe.
+
+    No steps advanced--the sudden pause
+      Attention quickly drew,
+    Rolled sightless orbs to learn the cause,
+      But, hark!--the steps renew.
+
+    "Where art thou, darling--why so long
+      Hast thou delayed to-night?
+    We die of thirst--we are not strong,
+      This fasting kills outright.
+
+    Speak to us, dear one--only speak,
+      And calm our idle fears,
+    Where hast thou been, and what to seek?
+      Have pity on these tears."
+
+    With head bent low the monarch heard,
+      Then came a cruel throb
+    That tore his heart--still not a word,
+      Only a stifled sob!
+
+    "It is not Sindhu--who art thou?
+      And where is Sindhu gone?
+    There's blood upon thy hands--avow!"
+      "There is."--"Speak on, speak on,"
+
+    The dead child in their arms he placed,
+      And briefly told his tale,
+    The parents their dead child embraced,
+      And kissed his forehead pale.
+
+    "Our hearts are broken. Come, dear wife,
+      On earth no more we dwell;
+    Now welcome Death, and farewell Life,
+      And thou, O king, farewell!
+
+    We do not curse thee, God forbid
+      But to my inner eye
+    The future is no longer hid,
+      Thou too shalt like us die.
+
+    Die--for a son's untimely loss!
+      Die--with a broken heart!
+    Now help us to our bed of moss,
+      And let us both depart."
+
+    Upon the moss he laid them down,
+      And watched beside the bed;
+    Death gently came and placed a crown
+      Upon each reverend head.
+
+    Where the Sarayu's waves dash free
+      Against a rocky bank,
+    The monarch had the corpses three
+      Conveyed by men of rank;
+
+    There honored he with royal pomp
+      Their funeral obsequies--
+    Incense and sandal, drum and tromp.
+      And solemn sacrifice.
+
+    What is the sequel of the tale?
+      How died the king?--Oh man,
+    A prophet's words can never fail--
+      Go, read the Ramayan.
+
+
+
+
+MISCELLANEOUS POEMS
+
+
+NEAR HASTINGS
+
+
+    Near Hastings, on the shingle-beach,
+      We loitered at the time
+    When ripens on the wall the peach,
+      The autumn's lovely prime.
+    Far off--the sea and sky seemed blent,
+      The day was wholly done,
+    The distant town its murmurs sent,
+      Strangers--we were alone.
+
+    We wandered slow; sick, weary, faint,
+      Then one of us sat down,
+    No nature hers, to make complaint;--
+      The shadows deepened brown.
+    A lady past--she was not young,
+      But oh! her gentle face
+    No painter-poet ever sung,
+      Or saw such saintlike grace.
+
+    She passed us--then she came again,
+      Observing at a glance
+    That we were strangers; one, in pain--
+      Then asked--Were we from France?
+    We talked awhile--some roses red
+      That seemed as wet with tears,
+    She gave my sister, and she said,
+      God bless you both, my dears!"
+
+    Sweet were the roses--sweet and full,
+      And large as lotus flowers
+    That in our own wide tanks we cull
+      To deck our Indian bowers.
+    But sweeter was the love that gave
+      Those flowers to one unknown,
+    I think that He who came to save
+      The gift a debt will own.
+
+    The lady's name I do not know,
+      Her face no more may see,
+    But yet, oh yet I love her so!
+      Blest, happy, may she be!
+    Her memory will not depart,
+      Though grief my years should shade,
+    Still bloom her roses in my heart!
+      And they shall never fade!
+
+
+FRANCE
+
+_1870_
+
+    Not dead--oh no--she cannot die!
+      Only a swoon, from loss of blood!
+    Levite England passes her by,
+    Help, Samaritan! None is nigh;
+      Who shall staunch me this sanguine flood?
+
+    'Range the brown hair, it blinds her eyne,
+      Dash cold water over her face!
+    Drowned in her blood, she makes no sign,
+    Give her a draught of generous wine.
+      None heed, none hear, to do this grace.
+
+    Head of the human column, thus
+      Ever in swoon wilt thou remain?
+    Thought, Freedom, Truth, quenched ominous
+    Whence then shall Hope arise for us,
+      Plunged in the darkness all again.
+
+    No, she stirs!--There's a fire in her glance,
+      Ware, oh ware of that broken sword!
+    What, dare ye for an hour's mischance,
+    Gather around her, jeering France,
+      Attila's own exultant horde?
+
+    Lo, she stands up--stands up e'en now,
+      Strong once more for the battle-fray,
+    Gleams bright the star, that from her brow
+    Lightens the world. Bow, nations, bow,
+      Let her again lead on the way!
+
+
+THE TREE OF LIFE
+
+    Broad daylight, with a sense of weariness!
+    Mine eyes were closed, but I was not asleep,
+    My hand was in my father's, and I felt
+    His presence near me. Thus we often passed
+    In silence, hour by hour. What was the need
+    Of interchanging words when every thought
+    That in our hearts arose, was known to each,
+    And every pulse kept time? Suddenly there shone
+    A strange light, and the scene as sudden changed.
+    I was awake:--It was an open plain
+    Illimitable--stretching, stretching--oh, so far!
+    And o'er it that strange light--a glorious light
+    Like that the stars shed over fields of snow
+    In a clear, cloudless, frosty winter night,
+    Only intenser in its brilliance calm.
+    And in the midst of that vast plain, I saw,
+    For I was wide awake--it was no dream,
+    A tree with spreading branches and with leaves
+    Of divers kinds--dead silver and live gold,
+    Shimmering in radiance that no words may tell!
+    Beside the tree an Angel stood; he plucked
+    A few small sprays, and bound them round my head.
+    Oh, the delicious touch of those strange leaves!
+    No longer throbbed my brows, no more I felt
+    The fever in my limbs--"And oh," I cried,
+    "Bind too my father's forehead with these leaves."
+    One leaf the Angel took and therewith touched
+    His forehead, and then gently whispered "Nay!"
+    Never, oh never had I seen a face
+    More beautiful than that Angel's, or more full
+    Of holy pity and of love divine.
+    Wondering I looked awhile--then, all at once
+    Opened my tear-dimmed eyes--When lo! the light
+    Was gone--the light as of the stars when snow
+    Lies deep upon the ground. No more, no more,
+    Was seen the Angel's face. I only found
+    My father watching patient by my bed,
+    And holding in his own, close-prest, my hand.
+
+
+MADAME TH�R�SE
+
+_Written on the fly-leaf of Erckmann-Chatrian's novel, entitled, "Madame
+Th�r�se_."
+
+    Wavered the foremost soldiers--then fell back.
+    Fallen was their leader, and loomed right before
+    The sullen Prussian cannon, grim and black,
+    With lighted matches waving. Now, once more,
+    Patriots and veterans!--Ah! Tis in vain!
+    Back they recoil, though bravest of the brave;
+    No human troops may stand that murderous rain;
+    But who is this--that rushes to a grave?
+
+    It is a woman--slender, tall, and brown!
+    She snatches up the standard as it falls--
+    In her hot haste tumbles her dark hair down,
+    And to the drummer-boy aloud she calls
+    To beat the charge; then forwards on the _pont_
+    They dash together;--who could bear to see
+    A woman and a child, thus Death confront,
+    Nor burn to follow them to victory?
+
+    I read the story and my heart beats fast!
+    Well might all Europe quail before thee, France,
+    Battling against oppression! Years have passed,
+    Yet of that time men speak with moistened glance.
+    _Va-nu-pieds!_ When rose high your Marseillaise
+    Man knew his rights to earth's remotest bound,
+    And tyrants trembled. Yours alone the praise!
+    Ah, had a Washington but then been found!
+
+
+
+
+SONNET
+
+
+    A sea of foliage girds our garden round,
+      But not a sea of dull unvaried green,
+      Sharp contrasts of all colors here are seen;
+    The light-green graceful tamarinds abound
+    Amid the mango clumps of green profound,
+      And palms arise, like pillars gray, between;
+      And o'er the quiet pools the seemuls lean,
+    Red--red, and startling like a trumpet's sound.
+    But nothing can be lovelier than the ranges
+      Of bamboos to the eastward, when the moon
+    Looks through their gaps, and the white lotus changes
+      Into a cup of silver. One might swoon
+        Drunken with beauty then, or gaze and gaze
+        On a primeval Eden, in amaze.
+
+
+
+
+SONNET
+
+
+    Love came to Flora asking for a flower
+      That would of flowers be undisputed queen,
+      The lily and the rose, long, long had been
+    Rivals for that high honor. Bards of power
+    Had sung their claims. "The rose can never tower
+      Like the pale lily with her Juno mien"--
+      "But is the lily lovelier?" Thus between
+    Flower-factions rang the strife in Psyche's bower.
+    "Give me a flower delicious as the rose
+      And stately as the lily in her pride"--
+      "But of what color?"--"Rose-red," Love first chose,
+      Then prayed--"No, lily-white--or, both provide;"
+      And Flora gave the lotus, "rose-red" dyed,
+    And "lily-white"--the queenliest flower that blows.
+
+
+
+
+OUR CASUARINA-TREE
+
+    Like a huge Python, winding round and round
+      The rugged trunk, indented deep with scars
+      Up to its very summit near the stars,
+    A creeper climbs, in whose embraces bound
+      No other tree could live. But gallantly
+    The giant wears the scarf, and flowers are hung
+    In crimson clusters all the boughs among,
+      Whereon all day are gathered bird and bee;
+    And oft at nights the garden overflows
+    With one sweet song that seems to have no close,
+    Sung darkling from our tree, while men repose,
+
+    When first my casement is wide open thrown
+      At dawn, my eyes delighted on it rest;
+      Sometimes, and most in winter--on its crest
+    A gray baboon sits statue-like alone
+      Watching the sunrise; while on lower boughs
+    His puny offspring leap about and play;
+    And far and near kokilas hail the day;
+      And to their pastures wend our sleepy cows;
+    And in the shadow, on the broad tank cast
+    By that hoar tree, so beautiful and vast,
+    The water-lilies spring, like snow enmassed.
+
+    But not because of its magnificence
+      Dear is the Casuarina to my soul:
+      Beneath it we have played; though years may roll,
+    O sweet companions, loved with love intense,
+      For your sakes, shall the tree be ever dear!
+    Blent with your images, it shall arise
+    In memory, till the hot tears blind mine eyes!
+      What is that dirge-like murmur that I hear
+    Like the sea breaking on a shingle-beach?
+    It is the tree's lament, an eerie speech,
+    That haply to the unknown land may reach.
+
+    Unknown, yet well-known to the eye of faith!
+      Ah, I have heard that wail far, far away
+      In distant lands, by many a sheltered bay,
+    When slumbered in his cave the water-wraith
+      And the waves gently kissed the classic shore
+    Of France or Italy, beneath the moon,
+    When earth lay tranced in a dreamless swoon:
+      And every time the music rose--before
+    Mine inner vision rose a form sublime,
+    Thy form, O Tree, as in my happy prime
+    I saw thee, in my own loved native clime.
+
+    Therefore I fain would consecrate a lay
+      Unto thy honor, Tree, beloved of those
+      Who now in blessed sleep, for aye, repose,
+    Dearer than life to me, alas! were they!
+      May'st thou be numbered when my days are done
+    With deathless trees--like those in Borrowdale,
+    Under whose awful branches lingered pale
+      "Fear, trembling Hope, and Death, the skeleton,
+    And Time, the shadow;" and though weak the verse
+    That would thy beauty fain, oh fain rehearse,
+    May Love defend thee from Oblivion's curse.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Hindu Literature, by Epiphanius Wilson
+
+*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK HINDU LITERATURE ***
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+<html>
+  <head>
+    <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content=
+    "text/html; charset=iso-8859-1">
+    <title>
+      The Project Gutenberg eBook of Hindu Literature.
+    </title>
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+<pre>
+
+The Project Gutenberg EBook of Hindu Literature, by Epiphanius Wilson
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: Hindu Literature
+
+Author: Epiphanius Wilson
+
+Release Date: August 24, 2004 [EBook #13268]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK HINDU LITERATURE ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Juliet Sutherland, Susan Skinner and the Online
+Distributed Proofreading Team.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+</pre>
+
+<h1>HINDU LITERATURE</h1>
+
+<h4>COMPRISING</h4>
+
+<h2>THE BOOK OF GOOD COUNSELS, NALA AND DAMAYANTI, THE R&Aacute;M&Aacute;YANA AND
+&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;</h2>
+
+<h4>WITH CRITICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES BY</h4>
+
+<h2>EPIPHANIUS WILSON, A.M.</h2>
+
+<h4>REVISED EDITION</h4>
+
+<h4>NEW YORK</h4>
+
+<h4>P.F. COLLIER &amp; SON</h4>
+
+<h5>1900</h5>
+
+<h5>THE COLONIAL PRESS</h5>
+
+<hr style='width: 45%;' />
+
+<h2>CONTENTS</h2>
+
+<h3><a href='#THE_BOOK_OF_GOOD_COUNSELS'><b>THE BOOK OF GOOD COUNSELS</b></a></h3>
+
+<ul>
+<li><a href='#TRANSLATORS_PREFACE'><b>Translator's Preface</b></a></li>
+<li><a href='#BOGC_INTRODUCTION'><b>Introduction</b></a></li>
+<li><a href='#THE_WINNING_OF_FRIENDS'><b>THE WINNING OF FRIENDS</b></a></li>
+<li><ul>
+<li><a href='#The_Story_of_the_Jackal_Deer_and_Crow'>The Story of the Jackal, Deer, and Crow</a></li>
+<li><a href='#The_Story_of_the_Vulture_the_Cat_and_the_Birds'>The Story of the Vulture, the Cat, and the Birds</a></li>
+<li><a href='#The_Story_of_the_Dead_Game_and_the_Jackal'>The Story of the Dead Game and the Jackal</a></li>
+<li><a href='#The_Prince_and_the_Wife_of_the_Merchants_Son'>The Prince and the Wife of the Merchant's Son</a></li>
+<li><a href='#The_Story_of_the_Old_Jackal_and_the_Elephant'>The Story of the Old Jackal and the Elephant</a></li>
+</ul></li>
+<li><a href='#THE_PARTING_OF_FRIENDS'><b>THE PARTING OF FRIENDS</b></a></li>
+<li><ul>
+<li><a href='#The_Story_of_the_Lion_the_Jackals_and_the_Bull'>The Story of the Lion, the Jackals, and the Bull</a></li>
+<li><a href='#The_Story_of_the_Monkey_and_the_Wedge'>The Story of the Monkey and the Wedge</a></li>
+<li><a href='#The_Story_of_the_Washermans_Jackass'>The Story of the Washerman's Jackass</a></li>
+<li><a href='#The_Story_of_the_Cat_Who_Served_the_Lion'>The Story of the Cat who Served the Lion</a></li>
+<li><a href='#The_Story_of_the_Terrible_Bell'>The Story of the Terrible Bell</a></li>
+<li><a href='#The_Story_of_the_Prince_and_the_Procuress'>The Story of the Prince and the Procuress</a></li>
+<li><a href='#The_Story_of_the_Black_Snake_and_the_Golden_Chain'>The Story of the Black Snake and the Golden Chain</a></li>
+<li><a href='#The_Story_of_the_Lion_and_the_Old_Hare'>The Story of the Lion and the Old Hare</a></li>
+<li><a href='#The_Story_of_the_Wagtail_and_the_Sea'>The Story of the Wagtail and the Sea</a></li>
+</ul></li>
+<li><a href='#WAR'><b>WAR</b></a></li>
+<li><ul>
+<li><a href='#The_Battle_of_the_Swans_and_Peacocks'>The Battle of the Swans and Peacocks</a></li>
+<li><a href='#The_Story_of_the_Weaver_Birds_and_the_Monkeys'>The Story of the Weaver-Birds and the Monkeys</a></li>
+<li><a href='#The_Story_of_the_Old_Hare_and_the_Elephants'>The Story of the Old Hare and the Elephants</a></li>
+<li><a href='#The_Story_of_the_Heron_and_the_Crow'>The Story of the Heron and the Crow</a></li>
+<li><a href='#The_Story_of_the_Appeased_Wheelwright'>The Story of the Appeased Wheelwright</a></li>
+<li><a href='#The_Story_of_the_Dyed_Jackal'>The Story of the Dyed Jackal</a></li>
+<li><a href='#The_Story_of_the_Faithful_Rajpoot'>The Story of the Faithful Rajpoot</a></li>
+</ul></li>
+<li><a href='#PEACE'><b>PEACE</b></a></li>
+<li><ul><li><a href='#The_Treaty_Between_the_Peacocks_and_the_Swans'>The Treaty Between the Peacocks and the Swans</a></li>
+<li><a href='#The_Story_of_the_Tortoise_and_the_Geese'>The Story of the Tortoise and the Geese</a></li>
+<li><a href='#The_Story_of_Fate_and_the_Three_Fishes'>The Story of Fate and the Three Fishes</a></li>
+<li><a href='#The_Story_of_the_Unabashed_Wife'>The Story of the Unabashed Wife</a></li>
+<li><a href='#The_Story_of_the_Herons_and_the_Mongoose'>The Story of the Herons and the Mongoose</a></li>
+<li><a href='#The_Story_of_the_Recluse_and_the_Mouse'>The Story of the Recluse and the Mouse</a></li>
+<li><a href='#The_Story_of_the_Crane_and_the_Crab'>The Story of the Crane and the Crab</a></li>
+<li><a href='#The_Story_of_the_Brahman_and_the_Pans'>The Story of the Brahman and the Pans</a></li>
+<li><a href='#The_Duel_of_the_Giants'>The Duel of the Giants</a></li>
+<li><a href='#The_Story_of_the_Brahman_and_the_Goat'>The Story of the Brahman and the Goat</a></li>
+<li><a href='#The_Story_of_the_Camel_the_Lion_and_His_Court'>The Story of the Camel, the Lion, and His Court</a></li>
+<li><a href='#The_Story_of_the_Frogs_and_the_Old_Serpent'>The Story of the Frogs and the Old Serpent</a></li>
+</ul></li></ul>
+<br />
+
+<h3><a href='#NALA_AND_DAMAYANTI_a'><b>NALA AND DAMAYANTI</b></a></h3>
+
+<ul>
+<li><a href='#ND_INTRODUCTION'>Introduction</a></li>
+<li><a href='#NALA_AND_DAMAYANTI_b'>NALA AND DAMAYANTI.&mdash;</a></li>
+<li><ul>
+<li><a href='#ND_Part_I'>Part I</a></li>
+<li><a href='#ND_Part_II'>Part II</a></li>
+</ul></li>
+</ul>
+<br />
+
+
+<h3><a href='#THE_RAMAYANA'><b>SELECTIONS FROM THE R&Aacute;M&Aacute;YANA</b></a></h3>
+
+<ul>
+<li><a href='#SFR_INTRODUCTION'>Introduction</a></li>
+<li><a href='#INVOCATION'>Invocation</a></li>
+<li>BOOK I.&mdash;</li>
+<li><ul>
+<li>CANTO</li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_I'>I.&mdash;N&aacute;rad</a></li>
+<li>[<i>Cantos II., III., IV., and V. are omitted</i>]</li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_VI'>VI.&mdash;The King</a></li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_VII'>VII.&mdash;The Ministers</a></li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_VIII'>VIII.&mdash;Sumantra's Speech</a></li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_IX'>IX.&mdash;Rishya&#347;ring</a></li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_X'>X.&mdash;Rishya&#347;ring Invited</a></li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_XI'>XI.&mdash;The Sacrifice Decreed</a></li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_XII'>XII.&mdash;The Sacrifice Begun</a></li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_XIII'>XIII.&mdash;The Sacrifice Finished</a></li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_XIV'>XIV.&mdash;R&aacute;van Doomed</a></li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_XV'>XV.&mdash;The Nectar</a></li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_XVI'>XVI.&mdash;The V&aacute;nars</a></li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_XVII'>XVII.&mdash;Rishya&#347;ring's Return</a></li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_XVIII'>XVIII.&mdash;Rishya&#347;ring's Departure</a></li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_XIX'>XIX.&mdash;The Birth of the Princes</a></li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_XX'>XX.&mdash;Vi&#347;v&aacute;mitra's Visit</a></li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_XXI'>XXI.&mdash;Vi&#347;v&aacute;mitra's Speech</a></li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_XXII'>XXII.&mdash;Da&#347;aratha's Speech</a></li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_XXIII'>XXIII.&mdash;Va&#347;ishtha's Speech</a></li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_XXIV'>XXIV.&mdash;The Spells</a></li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_XXV'>XXV.&mdash;The Hermitage of Love</a></li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_XXVI'>XXVI.&mdash;The Forest of T&aacute;dak&aacute;</a></li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_XXVII'>XXVII.&mdash;The Birth of T&aacute;dak&aacute;</a></li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_XXVIII'>XXVIII.&mdash;The Death of T&aacute;dak&aacute;</a></li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_XXIX'>XXIX.&mdash;The Celestial Arms</a></li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_XXX'>XXX.&mdash;The Mysterious Powers</a></li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_XXXI'>XXXI.&mdash;The Perfect Hermitage</a></li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_XXXII'>XXXII.&mdash;Vi&#347;v&aacute;mitra's Sacrifice</a></li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_XXXIII'>XXXIII.&mdash;The Sone</a></li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_XXXIV'>XXXIV.&mdash;Brahmadatta</a></li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_XXXV'>XXXV.&mdash;Vi&#347;v&aacute;mitra's Lineage</a></li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_XXXVI'>XXXVI.&mdash;The Birth of Gang&aacute;</a></li>
+<li>[<i>Cantos XXXVII. and XXXVIII. are omitted</i>]</li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_XXXIX'>XXXIX.&mdash;The Son of Sagar</a></li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_XL'>XL.&mdash;The Cleaving of the Earth</a></li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_XLI'>XLI.&mdash;Kapil</a></li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_XLII'>XLII.&mdash;Sagar's Sacrifice</a></li>
+<li><a href='#CANTO_XLIII'>XLIII.&mdash;Bhag&iacute;rath</a></li>
+</ul></li></ul>
+
+
+<h3><a href='#AKOONTALA'><b>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;</b></a></h3>
+
+<ul><li><a href='#S_INTRODUCTION'>Introduction</a></li>
+<li><a href='#DRAMATIS_PERSONAE'>Dramatis Personae</a></li>
+<li><a href='#RULES_FOR_PRONUNCIATION_OF_PROPER_NAMES'>Rules for Pronunciation of Proper Names</a></li>
+<li><a href='#PROLOGUE'>Prologue</a></li>
+<li><a href='#ACT_FIRST'>Act First</a></li>
+<li><a href='#ACT_SECOND'>Act Second</a></li>
+<li><a href='#PRELUDE_TO_ACT_THIRD'>Prelude to Act Third</a></li>
+<li><a href='#ACT_THIRD'>Act Third</a></li>
+<li><a href='#PRELUDE_TO_ACT_FOURTH'>Prelude to Act Fourth</a></li>
+<li><a href='#ACT_FOURTH'>Act Fourth</a></li>
+<li><a href='#ACT_FIFTH'>Act Fifth</a></li>
+<li><a href='#PRELUDE_TO_ACT_SIXTH'>Prelude to Act Sixth</a></li>
+<li><a href='#ACT_SIXTH'>Act Sixth</a></li>
+<li><a href='#ACT_SEVENTH'>Act Seventh</a></li></ul>
+
+
+<h3><b><a href='#BALLADS_OF_HINDOSTAN_a'>POEMS BY TORU DUTT</a></b></h3>
+
+<ul>
+	<li><a href='#TD_INTRODUCTION'>Introduction</a></li>
+	<li><a href='#BALLADS_OF_HINDOSTAN_b'>BALLADS OF HINDOSTAN.&mdash;</a></li>
+	<li><ul>
+		<li><a href='#JOGADHYA_UMA'>Jogadhya Uma</a></li>
+		<li><a href='#BUTTOO'>Buttoo</a></li>
+		<li><a href='#SINDHU'>Sindhu.&mdash;</a></li>
+		<li><ul>
+			<li><a href='#PART_I'>Part I</a></li>
+			<li><a href='#PART_II'>Part II</a></li>
+			<li><a href='#PART_III'>Part III</a></li>
+		</ul></li>
+	</ul></li>
+	<li><a href='#MISCELLANEOUS_POEMS'>MISCELLANEOUS POEMS.&mdash;</a></li>
+	<li><ul>
+		<li><a href='#NEAR_HASTINGS'>Near Hastings</a></li>
+		<li><a href='#FRANCE'>France</a></li>
+		<li><a href='#THE_TREE_OF_LIFE'>The Tree of Life</a></li>
+		<li><a href='#MADAME_THERESE'>Madame Th&eacute;r&egrave;se</a></li>
+		<li><a href='#SONNET_a'>Sonnet</a></li>
+		<li><a href='#SONNET_b'>Sonnet</a></li>
+		<li><a href='#OUR_CASUARINA_TREE'>Our Casuarina-Tree</a></li>
+	</ul></li>
+</ul>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 65%;' />
+<a name='THE_BOOK_OF_GOOD_COUNSELS'></a><h2>THE BOOK OF GOOD COUNSELS</h2>
+<h4>SELECTED FROM</h4>
+
+<h2>THE HITOPADE&#346;A</h2>
+
+<h4>[<i>Translated from the Sanscrit by Sir Edwin Arnold</i>]</h4>
+
+<hr style='width: 45%;' />
+
+<a name='TRANSLATORS_PREFACE'></a><h4>TRANSLATOR'S PREFACE</h4>
+
+<p>A story-book from the Sanscrit at least possesses the minor merit of
+novelty. The &quot;perfect language&quot; has been hitherto regarded as the
+province of scholars, and few of these even have found time or taste to
+search its treasures. And yet among them is the key to the heart of
+modern India&mdash;as well as the splendid record of her ancient Gods and
+glories. The hope of Hindostan lies in the intelligent interest of
+England. Whatever avails to dissipate misconceptions between them, and
+to enlarge their intimacy, is a gain to both peoples; and to this end
+the present volume aspires, in an humble degree, to contribute.</p>
+
+<p>The &quot;Hitopade&#347;a&quot; is a work of high antiquity, and extended popularity.
+The prose is doubtless as old as our own era; but the intercalated
+verses and proverbs compose a selection from writings of an age
+extremely remote. The &quot;Mahabharata&quot; and the textual Veds are of those
+quoted; to the first of which Professor M. Williams (in his admirable
+edition of the &quot;Nala,&quot; 1860) assigns a date of 350 B.C., while he claims
+for the &quot;Rig-Veda&quot; an antiquity as high as B.C. 1300. The &quot;Hitopade&#347;a&quot;
+may thus be fairly styled &quot;The Father of all Fables&quot;; for from its
+numerous translations have come &AElig;sop and Pilpay, and in later days
+Reineke Fuchs. Originally compiled in Sanscrit, it was rendered, by
+order of Nushirav&aacute;n, in the sixth century, A.D., into Persic. From the
+Persic it passed, A.D. 850, into the Arabic, and thence into Hebrew and
+Greek. In its own land it obtained as wide a circulation. The Emperor
+Acbar, impressed with the wisdom of its maxims and the ingenuity of its
+apologues, commended the work of translating it to his own Vizir, Abdul
+Fazel. That minister accordingly put the book into a familiar style, and
+published it with explanations, under the title of the &quot;Criterion of
+Wisdom.&quot; The Emperor had also suggested the abridgment of the long
+series of shlokes which here and there interrupt the narrative, and the
+Vizir found this advice sound, and followed it, like the present
+Translator. To this day, in India, the &quot;Hitopade&#347;a,&quot; under other names
+(as the &quot;Anv&aacute;ri Suhaili&quot;<a name="FNanchor1"></a><a href="#Footnote_1"><sup>[1]</sup></a>), retains the delighted attention of young
+and old, and has some representative in all the Indian vernaculars. A
+work so well esteemed in the East cannot be unwelcome to Western
+readers, who receive it here, a condensed but faithful transcript of
+sense and manner.</p>
+
+<p>As often as an Oriental allusion, or a name in Hindoo mythology, seemed
+to ask some explanation for the English reader, notes have been
+appended, bearing reference to the page. In their compilation, and
+generally, acknowledgment is due to Professor Johnson's excellent
+version and edition of the &quot;Hitopade&#347;a,&quot; and to Mr. Muir's &quot;Sanscrit
+Texts.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>A residence in India, and close intercourse with the Hindoos, have given
+the author a lively desire to subserve their advancement. No one listens
+now to the precipitate ignorance which would set aside as &quot;heathenish&quot;
+the high civilization of this great race; but justice is not yet done to
+their past development and present capacities. If the wit, the morality,
+and the philosophy of these &quot;beasts of India&quot; (so faithfully rendered by
+Mr. Harrison Weir) surprise any vigorous mind into further exploration
+of her literature, and deeper sense of our responsibility in her
+government, the author will be repaid.</p>
+
+<p>EDWIN ARNOLD.</p>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 65%;' />
+<h2>THE BOOK OF GOOD COUNSELS</h2>
+
+<a name='BOGC_INTRODUCTION'></a><h3>INTRODUCTION</h3>
+
+<h4><b>Honor to Gunesh, God of Wisdom</b></h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This book of Counsel read, and you shall see,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fair speech and Sanscrit lore, and Policy.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>On the banks of the holy river Ganges there stood a city named
+Pataliputra. The King of it was a good King and a virtuous, and his name
+was Sudarsana. It chanced one day that he overheard a certain person
+reciting these verses&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Wise men, holding wisdom highest, scorn delights, as false as fair,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Daily live they as Death's fingers twined already in their hair.</span><br />
+
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Truly, richer than all riches, better than the best of gain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wisdom is, unbought, secure&mdash;once won, none loseth her again.</span><br />
+
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bringing dark things into daylight, solving doubts that vex the mind,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like an open eye is Wisdom&mdash;he that hath her not is blind.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>Hearing these the King became disquieted, knowing that his own sons were
+gaining no wisdom, nor reading the Sacred Writings,<a name="FNanchor2"></a><a href="#Footnote_2"><sup>[2]</sup></a> but altogether
+going in the wrong way; and he repeated this verse to himself&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Childless art thou? dead thy children? leaving thee to want and dool?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Less thy misery than his is, who is father to a fool.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>And again this&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;One wise son makes glad his father, forty fools avail him not:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One moon silvers all that darkness which the silly stars did dot.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>&quot;And it has been said,&quot; reflected he&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Ease and health, obeisant children, wisdom, and a fair-voiced wife&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus, great King! are counted up the five felicities of life.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For the son the sire is honored; though the bow-cane bendeth true,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Let the strained string crack in using, and what service shall it do?&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>&quot;Nevertheless,&quot; mused the King, &quot;I know it is urged that human efforts
+are useless: as, for instance&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;That which will not be, will not be&mdash;and what is to be, will be:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Why not drink this easy physic, antidote of misery?&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>&quot;But then that comes from idleness, with people who will not do what
+they should do. Rather,</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Nay! and faint not, idly sighing, 'Destiny is mightiest,'</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sesamum holds oil in plenty, but it yieldeth none unpressed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ah! it is the Coward's babble, 'Fortune taketh, Fortune gave;'</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fortune! rate her like a master, and she serves thee like a slave.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>&quot;For indeed,</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Twofold is the life we live in&mdash;Fate and Will together run:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Two wheels bear life's chariot onward&mdash;will it move on only one?&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>&quot;And</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Look! the clay dries into iron, but the potter moulds the clay:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Destiny to-day is master&mdash;Man was master yesterday.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>&quot;So verily,</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Worthy ends come not by wishing. Wouldst thou? Up, and win it, then!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While the hungry lion slumbers, not a deer comes to his den.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>Having concluded his reflections, the Raja gave orders to assemble a
+meeting of learned men. Then said he&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Hear now, O my Pundits! Is there one among you so wise that he will
+undertake to give the second birth of Wisdom to these my sons, by
+teaching them the Books of Policy; for they have never yet read the
+Sacred Writings, and are altogether going in the wrong road; and ye know
+that</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Silly glass, in splendid settings, something of the gold may gain;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And in company of wise ones, fools to wisdom may attain.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>Then uprose a great Sage, by name Vishnu-Sarman, learned in the
+principles of Policy as is the angel of the planet Jupiter himself, and
+he said&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;My Lord King, I will undertake to teach these princes Policy, seeing
+they are born of a great house; for&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Labors spent on the unworthy, of reward the laborer balk;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like the parrot, teach the heron twenty times, he will not talk.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>&quot;But in this royal family the offspring are royal-minded, and in six
+moons I will engage to make your Majesty's sons comprehend Policy.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>The Raja replied, with condescension:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;On the eastern mountains lying, common things shine in the sun,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And by learned minds enlightened, lower minds may show as one.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>&quot;And you, worshipful sir, are competent to teach my children the rules
+of Policy.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>So saying, with much graciousness, he gave the Princes into the charge
+of Vishnu-Sarman; and that sage, by way of introduction, spake to the
+Princes, as they sat at ease on the balcony of the palace, in this
+wise:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Hear now, my Princes! for the delectation of your Highnesses, I purpose
+to tell the tale of the Crow, the Tortoise, the Deer, and the Mouse.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Pray, sir,&quot; said the King's sons, &quot;let us hear it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>Vishnu-Sarman answered&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;It begins with the Winning of Friends; and this is the first verse of
+it:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Sans way or wealth, wise friends their purpose gain&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Mouse, Crow, Deer, and Tortoise make this plain.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+
+
+
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='THE_WINNING_OF_FRIENDS'></a><h3>THE WINNING OF FRIENDS</h3>
+
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sans way or wealth, wise friends their purpose gain&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Mouse, Crow, Deer, and Tortoise make this plain.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>&quot;However was that?&quot; asked the Princes.</p>
+
+<p>Vishnu-Sarman replied:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;On the banks of the Godavery there stood a large silk-cotton-tree, and
+thither at night, from all quarters and regions, the birds came to
+roost. Now once, when the night was just spent, and his Radiance the
+Moon, Lover of the white lotus, was about to retire behind the western
+hills, a Crow who perched there, 'Light o' Leap' by name, upon
+awakening, saw to his great wonder a fowler approaching&mdash;a second God of
+Death. The sight set him reflecting, as he flew off uneasily to follow
+up the man's movements, and he began to think what mischief this
+ill-omened apparition foretold.</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;For a thousand thoughts of sorrow, and a hundred things of dread,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By the wise unheeded, trouble day by day the foolish head.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>And yet in this life it must be that</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Of the day's impending dangers, Sickness, Death, and Misery,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One will be; the wise man waking, ponders which that one will be.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Presently the fowler fixed a net, scattered grains of rice about, and
+withdrew to hide. At this moment &quot;Speckle-neck,&quot; King of the Pigeons,
+chanced to be passing through the sky with his Court, and caught sight
+of the rice-grains. Thereupon the King of the Pigeons asked of his
+rice-loving followers, 'How can there possibly be rice-grains lying here
+in an unfrequented forest? We will see into it, of course, but We like
+not the look of it&mdash;love of rice may ruin us, as the Traveller was
+ruined.</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;All out of longing for a golden bangle,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Tiger, in the mud, the man did mangle.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>&quot;How did that happen?&quot; asked the Pigeons.</p>
+<br />
+
+<h4><b>The Story of the Tiger and the Traveller</b></h4>
+
+<p>&quot;Thus,&quot; replied Speckle-neck: &quot;I was pecking about one day in the Deccan
+forest, and saw an old tiger sitting newly bathed on the bank of a pool,
+like a Brahman, and with holy kuskus-grass<a name="FNanchor3"></a><a href="#Footnote_3"><sup>[3]</sup></a> in his paws.</p>
+
+<p>'Ho! ho! ye travellers,' he kept calling out, 'take this golden bangle!'</p>
+
+<p>Presently a covetous fellow passed by and heard him.</p>
+
+<p>'Ah!' thought he, 'this is a bit of luck&mdash;but I must not risk my neck
+for it either.</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Good things come not out of bad things; wisely leave a longed-for ill.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nectar being mixed with poison serves no purpose but to kill.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'But all gain is got by risk, so I will see into it at least;' then he
+called out, 'Where is thy bangle?'</p>
+
+<p>The Tiger stretched forth his paw and exhibited it.</p>
+
+<p>'Hem!' said the Traveller, 'can I trust such a fierce brute as thou
+art?'</p>
+
+<p>'Listen,' replied the Tiger, 'once, in the days of my cub-hood, I know I
+was very wicked. I killed cows, Brahmans, and men without number&mdash;and I
+lost my wife and children for it&mdash;and haven't kith or kin left. But
+lately I met a virtuous man who counselled me to practise the duty of
+almsgiving&mdash;and, as thou seest, I am strict at ablutions and alms.
+Besides, I am old, and my nails and fangs are gone&mdash;so who would
+mistrust me? and I have so far conquered selfishness, that I keep the
+golden bangle for whoso comes. Thou seemest poor! I will give it thee.
+Is it not said,</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Give to poor men, son of K&ucirc;nti&mdash;on the wealthy waste not wealth;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Good are simples for the sick man, good for nought to him in health.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'Wade over the pool, therefore, and take the bangle,'</p>
+
+<p>Thereupon the covetous Traveller determined to trust him, and waded into
+the pool, where he soon found himself plunged in mud, and unable to
+move.</p>
+
+<p>'Ho! ho!' says the Tiger, 'art thou stuck in a slough? stay, I will
+fetch thee out!'</p>
+
+<p>So saying he approached the wretched man and seized him&mdash;who meanwhile
+bitterly reflected&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Be his Scripture-learning wondrous, yet the cheat will be a cheat;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Be her pasture ne'er so bitter, yet the cow's milk will be sweet.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>And on that verse, too&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Trust not water, trust not weapons; trust not clawed nor horned things;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Neither give thy soul to women, nor thy life to Sons of Kings.'</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>And those others&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Look! the Moon, the silver roamer, from whose splendor darkness flies</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With his starry cohorts marching, like a crowned king through the skies.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All the grandeur, all the glory, vanish in the Dragon's jaw;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What is written on the forehead, that will be, and nothing more,'</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>Here his meditations were cut short by the Tiger devouring him. &quot;And
+that,&quot; said Speckle-neck, &quot;is why we counselled caution.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Why, yes!&quot; said a certain pigeon, with some presumption, &quot;but you've
+read the verse&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Counsel in danger; of it</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Unwarned, be nothing begun.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But nobody asks a Prophet</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Shall the risk of a dinner be run?'</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>Hearing that, the Pigeons settled at once; for we know that</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Avarice begetteth anger; blind desires from her begin;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A right fruitful mother is she of a countless spawn of sin.'</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>And again,</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Can a golden Deer have being? yet for such the Hero pined:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When the cloud of danger hovers, then its shadow dims the mind.'</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>Presently they were caught in the net. Thereat, indeed, they all began
+to abuse the pigeon by whose suggestion they had been ensnared. It is
+the old tale!</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Be second and not first!&mdash;the share's the same</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If all go well. If not, the Head's to blame.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>And we should remember that</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Passion will be Slave or Mistress: follow her, she brings to woe;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lead her, 'tis the way to Fortune. Choose the path that thou wilt go.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>When King Speckle-neck heard their reproaches, he said, &quot;No, no! it is
+no fault of his.</p>
+
+<p>'When the time of trouble cometh, friends may ofttimes irk us most: For
+the calf at milking-hour the mother's leg is tying-post.'</p>
+
+<p>'And in disaster, dismay is a coward's quality; let us rather rely on
+fortitude, and devise some remedy. How saith the sage?</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;In good fortune not elated, in ill-fortune not dismayed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ever eloquent in council, never in the fight affrayed&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Proudly emulous of honor, steadfastly on wisdom set;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Perfect virtues in the nature of a noble soul are met.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whoso hath them, gem and glory of the three wide worlds<a name="FNanchor4"></a><a href="#Footnote_4"><sup>[4]</sup></a> is he;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Happy mother she that bore him, she who nursed him on her knee.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>&quot;Let us do this now directly,&quot; continued the King: &quot;at one moment and
+with one will, rising under the net, let us fly off with it: for indeed</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Small things wax exceeding mighty, being cunningly combined:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Furious elephants are fastened with a rope of grass-blades twined.'</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>&quot;And it is written, you know,</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Let the household hold together, though the house be ne'er so small;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Strip the rice-husk from the rice-grain, and it groweth not at all.'</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>Having pondered this advice, the Pigeons adopted it; and flew away with
+the net. At first the fowler, who was at a distance, hoped to recover
+them, but as they passed out of sight with the snare about them he gave
+up the pursuit. Perceiving this, the Pigeons said,</p>
+
+<p>&quot;What is the next thing to be done, O King?&quot;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;A friend of mine,&quot; said Speckle-neck, &quot;lives near in a beautiful forest
+on the Gundaki. Golden-skin is his name&mdash;the King of the Mice&mdash;he is the
+one to cut these bonds.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>Resolving to have recourse to him, they directed their flight to the
+hole of Golden-skin&mdash;a prudent monarch, who dreaded danger so much that
+he had made himself a palace with a hundred outlets, and lived always in
+it. Sitting there he heard the descent of the pigeons, and remained
+silent and alarmed.</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Friend Golden-skin,&quot; cried the King, &quot;have you no welcome for us?&quot;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Ah, my friend!&quot; said the Mouse-king, rushing out on recognizing the
+voice, &quot;is it thou art come, Speckle-neck! how delightful!&mdash;But what is
+this?&quot; exclaimed he, regarding the entangled net.</p>
+
+<p>&quot;That,&quot; said King Speckle-neck, &quot;is the effect of some wrong-doing in a
+former life&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Sickness, anguish, bonds, and woe</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Spring from wrongs wrought long ago,'<a name="FNanchor5"></a><a href="#Footnote_5"><sup>[5]</sup></a></span><br />
+</div>
+<p>Golden-skin, without replying, ran at once to the net, and began to gnaw
+the strings that held Speckle-neck.</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Nay! friend, not so,&quot; said the King, &quot;cut me first these meshes from my
+followers, and afterwards thou shalt sever mine.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;I am little,&quot; answered Golden-skin, &quot;and my teeth are weak&mdash;how can I
+gnaw so much? No! no! I will nibble your strings as long as my teeth
+last, and afterwards do my best for the others. To preserve dependents
+by sacrificing oneself is nowhere enjoined by wise moralists; on the
+contrary&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Keep wealth for want, but spend-it for thy wife,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And wife, and wealth, and all to guard thy life,'</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>&quot;Friend,&quot; replied King Speckle-neck, &quot;that may be the rule of policy,
+but I am one that can by no means bear to witness the distress of those
+who depend on me, for&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Death, that must come, comes nobly when we give</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Our wealth, and life, and all, to make men live,'</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>And you know the verse,</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Friend, art thou faithful? guard mine honor so!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And let the earthy rotting body go,'&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>When King Golden-skin heard this answer his heart was charmed, and his
+fur bristled up for pure pleasure. &quot;Nobly spoken, friend,&quot; said he,
+&quot;nobly spoken! with such a tenderness for those that look to thee, the
+Sovereignty of the Three Worlds might be fitly thine.&quot; So saying he set
+himself to cut all their bonds. This done, and the pigeons extricated,
+the King of the Mice<a name="FNanchor6"></a><a href="#Footnote_6"><sup>[6]</sup></a> gave them his formal welcome. &quot;But, your
+Majesty,&quot; he said, &quot;this capture in the net was a work of destiny; you
+must not blame yourself as you did, and suspect a former fault. Is it
+not written&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Floating on his fearless pinions, lost amid the noon-day skies,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Even thence the Eagle's vision kens the carcase where it lies;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But the hour that comes to all things comes unto the Lord of Air,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And he rushes, madly blinded, to his ruin in the snare,'&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>With this correction Golden-skin proceeded to perform the duties of
+hospitality, and afterwards, embracing and dismissing them, the pigeons
+left for such destination as they fancied, and the King of the Mice
+retired again into his hole.</p>
+
+<p>Now Light o' Leap, the Crow, had been a spectator of the whole
+transaction, and wondered at it so much that at last he called out, &quot;Ho!
+Golden-skin, thou very laudable Prince, let me too be a friend of thine,
+and give me thy friendship.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Who art thou?&quot; said Golden-skin, who heard him, but would not come out
+of his hole.</p>
+
+<p>&quot;I am the Crow Light o' Leap,&quot; replied the other.</p>
+
+<p>&quot;How can I possibly be on good terms with thee?&quot; answered Golden-skin
+with a laugh; &quot;have you never read&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'When Food is friends with Feeder, look for Woe,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Jackal ate the Deer, but for the Crow,'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>&quot;No! how was that?&quot;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;I will tell thee,&quot; replied Golden-skin:&mdash;</p>
+<br />
+
+<a name='The_Story_of_the_Jackal_Deer_and_Crow'></a><h4><b>The Story of the Jackal, Deer, and Crow</b></h4>
+
+<p>&quot;Far away in Behar there is a forest called Champak-Grove,<a name="FNanchor7"></a><a href="#Footnote_7"><sup>[7]</sup></a> and in it
+had long lived in much affection a Deer and a Crow. The Deer, roaming
+unrestrained, happy and fat of carcase, was one day descried by a
+Jackal. 'Ho! ho!' thought the Jackal on observing him, 'if I could but
+get this soft meat for a meal! It might be&mdash;if I can only win his
+confidence,' Thus reflecting he approached, and saluted him.</p>
+
+<p>'Health be to thee, friend Deer!'</p>
+
+<p>'Who art thou?' said the Deer.</p>
+
+<p>'I'm Small-wit, the Jackal,' replied the other. 'I live in the wood
+here, as the dead do, without a friend; but now that I have met with
+such a friend as thou, I feel as if I were beginning life again with
+plenty of relations. Consider me your faithful servant.'</p>
+
+<p>'Very well,' said the Deer; and then, as the glorious King of Day, whose
+diadem is the light, had withdrawn himself, the two went together to the
+residence of the Deer. In that same spot, on a branch of Champak, dwelt
+the Crow Sharp-sense, an old friend of the Deer. Seeing them approach
+together, the Crow said,</p>
+
+<p>'Who is this number two, friend Deer?'</p>
+
+<p>'It is a Jackal,' answered the Deer, 'that desires our acquaintance.'</p>
+
+<p>'You should not become friendly to a stranger without reason,' said
+Sharp-sense. 'Don't you know?'</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;To folks by no one known house-room deny:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Vulture housed the Cat, and thence did die.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'No! how was that?' said both.</p>
+
+<p>'In this wise,' answered the Crow.</p>
+<br />
+
+<a name='The_Story_of_the_Vulture_the_Cat_and_the_Birds'></a><h4><b>The Story of the Vulture, the Cat, and the Birds</b></h4>
+
+<p>&quot;On the banks of the Ganges there is a cliff called Vulture-Crag, and
+thereupon grew a great fig-tree. It was hollow, and within its shelter
+lived an old Vulture, named Grey-pate, whose hard fortune it was to have
+lost both eyes and talons. The birds that roosted in the tree made
+subscriptions from their own store, out of sheer pity for the poor
+fellow, and by that means he managed to live. One day, when the old
+birds were gone, Long-ear, the Cat, came there to get a meal of the
+nestlings; and they, alarmed at perceiving him, set up a chirruping that
+roused Grey-pate.</p>
+
+<p>'Who comes there?' croaked Grey-pate.</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Now Long-ear, on espying the Vulture, thought himself undone; but as
+flight was impossible, he resolved to trust his destiny and approach.</p>
+
+<p>'My lord,' said he, 'I have the honor to salute thee.'</p>
+
+<p>'Who is it?' said the Vulture.</p>
+
+<p>'I am a Cat,'</p>
+
+<p>'Be off, Cat, or I shall slay thee,' said the Vulture.</p>
+
+<p>'I am ready to die if I deserve death,' answered the Cat; 'but let what
+I have to say be heard,'</p>
+
+<p>'Wherefore, then, comest thou?' said the Vulture.</p>
+
+<p>'I live,' began Long-ear, 'on the Ganges, bathing, and eating no flesh,
+practising the moon-penance,<a name="FNanchor8"></a><a href="#Footnote_8"><sup>[8]</sup></a> like a Bramacharya. The birds that
+resort thither constantly praise your worship to me as one wholly given
+to the study of morality, and worthy of all trust; and so I came here to
+learn law from thee, Sir, who art so deep gone in learning and in years.
+Dost thou, then, so read the law of strangers as to be ready to slay a
+guest? What say the books about the householder?&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Bar thy door not to the stranger, be he friend or be he foe,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For the tree will shade the woodman while his axe doth lay it low,'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>And if means fail, what there is should be given with kind words, as&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Greeting fair, and room to rest in; fire, and water from the well&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Simple gifts&mdash;are given freely in the house where good men dwell,'&mdash;</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>and without respect of person&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Young, or bent with many winters; rich, or poor, whate'er thy guest,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Honor him for thine own honor&mdash;better is he than the best,'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Else comes the rebuke&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Pity them that ask thy pity: who art thou to stint thy hoard,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When the holy moon shines equal on the leper and the lord!'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>And that other, too,</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'When thy gate is roughly fastened, and the asker turns away,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thence he bears thy good deeds with him, and his sins on thee doth lay</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>For verily,</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'In the house the husband ruleth, men the Brahmans &quot;master&quot; call;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Agni is the Twice-born Master&mdash;but the guest is lord of all,'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>&quot;To these weighty words Grey-pate answered,</p>
+
+<p>'Yes! but cats like meat, and there are young birds here, and therefore
+I said, go,'</p>
+
+<p>'Sir,' said the Cat (and as he spoke he touched the ground, and then his
+two ears, and called on Krishna to witness to his words), 'I that have
+overcome passion, and practised the moon-penance, know the Scriptures;
+and howsoever they contend, in this primal duty of abstaining from
+injury they are unanimous. Which of them sayeth not&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'He who does and thinks no wrong&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He who suffers, being strong&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He whose harmlessness men know&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unto Swerga such doth go.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>&quot;And so, winning the old Vulture's confidence, Long-ear, the Cat,
+entered the hollow tree and lived there. And day after day he stole away
+some of the nestlings, and brought them down to the hollow to devour.
+Meantime the parent birds, whose little ones were being eaten, made an
+inquiry after them in all quarters; and the Cat, discovering this fact,
+slipped out from the hollow, and made his escape. Afterwards, when the
+birds came to look closely, they found the bones of their young ones in
+the hollow of the tree where Grey-pate lived; and the birds at once
+concluded that their nestlings had been killed and eaten by the old
+Vulture, whom they accordingly executed. That is my story, and why I
+warned you against unknown acquaintances.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Sir,&quot; said the Jackal, with some warmth, &quot;on the first day of your
+encountering the Deer you also were of unknown family and character: how
+is it, then, that your friendship with him grows daily greater? True, I
+am only Small-wit, the Jackal, but what says the saw?&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;In the land where no wise men are, men of little wit are lords;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And the castor-oil's a tree, where no tree else its shade affords.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>The Deer is my friend; condescend, sir, to be my friend also.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>'Oh!' broke in the Deer, 'why so much talking? We'll all live together,
+and be friendly and happy&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Foe is friend, and friend is foe,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As our actions make them so,'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>&quot;Very good,&quot; said Sharp-sense; &quot;as you will;&quot; and in the morning each
+started early for his own feeding-ground (returning at night). One day
+the Jackal drew the Deer aside, and whispered, 'Deer, in one corner of
+this wood there is a field full of sweet young wheat; come and let me
+show you.' The Deer accompanied him, and found the field, and afterwards
+went every day there to eat the green corn, till at last the owner of
+the ground spied him and set a snare. The Deer came again very shortly,
+and was caught in it, and (after vainly struggling) exclaimed, 'I am
+fast in the net, and it will be a net of death to me if no friend comes
+to rescue me!' Presently Small-wit, the Jackal, who had been lurking
+near, made his appearance, and standing still, he said to himself, with
+a chuckle, 'O ho! my scheme bears fruit! When he is cut up, his bones,
+and gristle, and blood, will fall to my share and make me some beautiful
+dinners,' The Deer, here catching sight of him, exclaimed with rapture,
+'Ah, friend, this is excellent! Do but gnaw these strings, and I shall
+be at liberty. How charming to realize the saying!&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'That friend only is the true friend who is near when trouble comes;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That man only is the brave man who can bear the battle-drums;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Words are wind; deed proveth promise: he who helps at need is kin;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And the leal wife is loving though the husband lose or win,'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>And is it not written&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Friend and kinsman&mdash;more their meaning than the idle-hearted mind.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Many a friend can prove unfriendly, many a kinsman less than kind:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He who shares his comrade's portion, be he beggar, be he lord,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Comes as truly, comes as duly, to the battle as the board&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Stands before the king to succor, follows to the pile to sigh&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He is friend, and he is kinsman&mdash;less would make the name a lie.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>&quot;Small-wit answered nothing, but betook himself to examining the snare
+very closely.</p>
+
+<p>'This will certainly hold,' muttered he; then, turning to the Deer, he
+said, 'Good friend, these strings, you see, are made of sinew, and
+to-day is a fast-day, so that I cannot possibly bite them. To-morrow
+morning, if you still desire it, I shall be happy to serve you,'</p>
+
+<p>When he was gone, the Crow, who had missed the Deer upon returning that
+evening, and had sought for him everywhere, discovered him; and seeing
+his sad plight, exclaimed&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'How came this about, my friend?'</p>
+
+<p>'This came,' replied the Deer, 'through disregarding a friend's advice,'</p>
+
+<p>'Where is that rascal Small-wit?' asked the Crow.</p>
+
+<p>'He is waiting somewhere by,' said the Deer, 'to taste my flesh,'</p>
+
+<p>'Well,' sighed the Crow, 'I warned you; but it is as in the true verse&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Stars gleam, lamps flicker, friends foretell of fate;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The fated sees, knows, hears them&mdash;all too late.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>And then, with a deeper sigh, he exclaimed,'Ah, traitor Jackal, what an
+ill deed hast thou done! Smooth-tongued knave&mdash;alas!&mdash;and in the face of
+the monition too&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Absent, flatterers' tongues are daggers&mdash;present, softer than the silk;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shun them! 'tis a jar of poison hidden under harmless milk;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shun them when they promise little! Shun them when they promise much!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For, enkindled, charcoal burneth&mdash;cold, it doth defile the touch.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>When the day broke, the Crow (who was still there) saw the master of the
+field approaching with his club in his hand.</p>
+
+<p>'Now, friend Deer,' said Sharp-sense on perceiving him, 'do thou cause
+thyself to seem like one dead: puff thy belly up with wind, stiffen thy
+legs out, and lie very still. I will make a show of pecking thine eyes
+out with my beak; and whensoever I utter a croak, then spring to thy
+feet and betake thee to flight.'</p>
+
+<p>The Deer thereon placed himself exactly as the Crow suggested, and was
+very soon espied by the husbandman, whose eyes opened with joy at the
+sight.</p>
+
+<p>'Aha!' said he, 'the fellow has died of himself,' and so speaking, he
+released the Deer from the snare, and proceeded to gather and lay aside
+his nets. At that instant Sharp-sense uttered a loud croak, and the Deer
+sprang up and made off. And the club which the husbandman flung after
+him in a rage struck Small-wit, the Jackal (who was close by), and
+killed him. Is it not said, indeed?&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'In years, or moons, or half-moons three,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or in three days&mdash;suddenly,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Knaves are shent&mdash;true men go free,'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>&quot;Thou seest, then,&quot; said Golden-skin, &quot;there can be no friendship
+between food and feeder.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;I should hardly,&quot; replied the Crow, &quot;get a large breakfast out of your
+worship; but as to that indeed you have nothing to fear from me. I am
+not often angry, and if I were, you know&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Anger comes to noble natures, but leaves there no strife or storm:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Plunge a lighted torch beneath it, and the ocean grows not warm.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>&quot;Then, also, thou art such a gad-about,&quot; objected the King.</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Maybe,&quot; answered Light o' Leap; &quot;but I am bent on winning thy
+friendship, and I will die at thy door of fasting if thou grantest it
+not. Let us be friends! for</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Noble hearts are golden vases&mdash;close the bond true metals make;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Easily the smith may weld them, harder far it is to break.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Evil hearts are earthen vessels&mdash;at a touch they crack a-twain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And what craftsman's ready cunning can unite the shards again?'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>And then, too,</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Good men's friendships may be broken, yet abide they friends at heart;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Snap the stem of Luxmee's lotus, and its fibres will not part.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>&quot;Good sir,&quot; said the King of the Mice, &quot;your conversation is as pleasing
+as pearl necklets or oil of sandal-wood in hot weather. Be it as you
+will&quot;&mdash;and thereon King Golden-skin made a treaty with the Crow, and
+after gratifying him with the best of his store re&euml;ntered his hole. The
+Crow returned to his accustomed perch:&mdash;and thenceforward the time
+passed in mutual presents of food, in polite inquiries, and the most
+unrestrained talk. One day Light o' Leap thus accosted Golden-skin:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;This is a poor place, your Majesty, for a Crow to get a living in. I
+should like to leave it and go elsewhere.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Whither wouldst thou go?&quot; replied the King; they say,</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'One foot goes, and one foot stands,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When the wise man leaves his lands.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>&quot;And they say, too,&quot; answered the Crow,</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Over-love of home were weakness; wheresoever the hero come,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Stalwart arm and steadfast spirit find or win for him a home.</span><br />
+
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Little recks the awless lion where his hunting jungles lie&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When he enters it be certain that a royal prey shall die,'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>&quot;I know an excellent jungle now.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Which is that?&quot; asked the Mouse-king.</p>
+
+<p>&quot;In the Nerbudda woods, by Camphor-water,&quot; replied the Crow. &quot;There is
+an old and valued friend of mine lives there&mdash;Slow-toes his name is, a
+very virtuous Tortoise; he will regale me with fish and good things.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Why should I stay behind,&quot; said Golden-skin, &quot;if thou goest? Take me
+also.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>Accordingly, the two set forth together, enjoying charming converse upon
+the road. Slow-toes perceived Light o' Leap a long way off, and hastened
+to do him the guest-rites, extending them to the Mouse upon Light o'
+Leap's introduction.</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Good Slow-toes,&quot; said he, &quot;this is Golden-skin, King of the Mice&mdash;pay
+all honor to him&mdash;he is burdened with virtues&mdash;a very jewel-mine of
+kindnesses. I don't know if the Prince of all the Serpents, with his two
+thousand tongues, could rightly repeat them.&quot; So speaking, he told the
+story of Speckle-neck. Thereupon Slow-toes made a profound obeisance to
+Golden-skin, and said, &quot;How came your Majesty, may I ask, to retire to
+an unfrequented forest?&quot;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;I will tell you,&quot; said the King. &quot;You must know that in the town of
+Champaka there is a college for the devotees. Unto this resorted daily a
+beggar-priest, named Chudakarna, whose custom was to place his
+begging-dish upon the shelf, with such alms in it as he had not eaten,
+and go to sleep by it; and I, so soon as he slept, used to jump up, and
+devour the meal. One day a great friend of his, named Vinakarna, also a
+mendicant, came to visit him; and observed that while conversing, he
+kept striking the ground with a split cane, to frighten me. 'Why don't
+you listen?' said Vinakarna. 'I am listening!' replied the other; 'but
+this plaguy mouse is always eating the meal out of my begging-dish,'
+Vinakarna looked at the shelf and remarked, 'However can a mouse jump as
+high as this? There must be a reason, though there seems none. I guess
+the cause&mdash;the fellow is well off and fat,' With these words Vinakarna
+snatched up a shovel, discovered my retreat, and took away all my hoard
+of provisions. After that I lost strength daily, had scarcely energy
+enough to get my dinner, and, in fact, crept about so wretchedly, that
+when Chudakarna saw me he fell to quoting&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Very feeble folk are poor folk; money lost takes wit away:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All their doings fail like runnels, wasting through the summer day.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>&quot;Yes!&quot; I thought, &quot;he is right, and so are the sayings&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Wealth is friends, home, father, brother&mdash;title to respect and fame;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2.5em;'>Yea, and wealth is held for wisdom&mdash;that it should be so is shame,'</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Home is empty to the childless; hearts to them who friends deplore:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2.5em;'>Earth unto the idle-minded; and the three worlds to the poor.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'I can stay here no longer; and to tell my distress to another is out of
+the question&mdash;altogether out of the question!&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Say the sages, nine things name not: Age, domestic joys and woes,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Counsel, sickness, shame, alms, penance; neither Poverty disclose.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Better for the proud of spirit, death, than life with losses told;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fire consents to be extinguished, but submits not to be cold.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'Verily he was wise, methought also, who wrote&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'As Age doth banish beauty,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>As moonlight dies in gloom,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As Slavery's menial duty</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Is Honor's certain tomb;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As Hari's name and Hara's</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Spoken, charm sin away,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So Poverty can surely</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>A hundred virtues slay.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'And as to sustaining myself on another man's bread, that,' I mused,
+'would be but a second door of death. Say not the books the same?&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Half-known knowledge, present pleasure purchased with a future woe,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And to taste the salt of service&mdash;greater griefs no man can know.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'And herein, also&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'All existence is not equal, and all living is not life;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sick men live; and he who, banished, pines for children, home, and wife;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And the craven-hearted eater of another's leavings lives,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And the wretched captive waiting for the word of doom survives;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But they bear an anguished body, and they draw a deadly breath,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And life cometh to them only on the happy day of death.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Yet, after all these reflections, I was covetous enough to make one
+more attempt on Chudakarna's meal, and got a blow from the split cane
+for my pains. 'Just so,' I said to myself, 'the soul and organs of the
+discontented want keeping in subjection. I must be done with
+discontent:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'Golden gift, serene Contentment! have thou that, and all is had; Thrust
+thy slipper on, and think thee that the earth is leather-clad.'</p>
+
+<p>'All is known, digested, tested; nothing new is left to learn When the
+soul, serene, reliant, Hope's delusive dreams can spurn.'</p>
+
+<p>'And the sorry task of seeking favor is numbered in the miseries of
+life&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'Hast thou never watched, a-waiting till the great man's door unbarred?
+Didst thou never linger parting, saying many a last sad word? Spak'st
+thou never word of folly, one light thing thou wouldst recall? Rare and
+noble hath thy life been! fair thy fortune did befall!'</p>
+
+<p>'No!' exclaimed I, 'I will do none of these; but, by retiring into the
+quiet and untrodden forest, I will show my discernment of real good and
+ill. The holy Books counsel it&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'True Religion!&mdash;'tis not blindly prating what the priest may prate, But
+to love, as God hath loved them, all things, be they small or great; And
+true bliss is when a sane mind doth a healthy body fill; And true
+knowledge is the knowing what is good and what is ill.'</p>
+
+<p>&quot;So came I to the forest, where, by good fortune and this good friend, I
+met much kindness; and by the same good fortune have encountered you,
+Sir, whose friendliness is as Heaven to me. Ah! Sir Tortoise,</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Poisonous though the tree of life be, two fair blossoms grow thereon:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One, the company of good men; and sweet songs of Poet's, one.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>&quot;King!&quot; said Slow-toes, &quot;your error was getting too much, without
+giving. Give, says the sage&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Give, and it shall swell thy getting; give, and thou shalt safer keep:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Pierce the tank-wall; or it yieldeth, when the water waxes deep.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>And he is very hard upon money-grubbing: as thus&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'When the miser hides his treasure in the earth, he doeth well;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For he opens up a passage that his soul may sink to hell,'</span><br />
+<br /></div>
+
+<p>And thus&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'He whose coins are kept for counting, not to barter nor to give,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Breathe he like a blacksmith's bellows, yet in truth he doth not live.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>It hath been well written, indeed,</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Gifts, bestowed with words of kindness, making giving doubly dear:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wisdom, deep, complete, benignant, of all arrogancy clear;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Valor, never yet forgetful of sweet Mercy's pleading prayer;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wealth, and scorn of wealth to spend it&mdash;oh! but these be virtues rare!'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>&quot;Frugal one may be,&quot; continued Slow-toes; &quot;but not a niggard like the
+Jackal&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'The Jackal-knave, that starved his spirit so,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And died of saving, by a broken bow.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>&quot;Did he, indeed,&quot; said Golden-skin; &quot;and how was that?&quot;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;I will tell you,&quot; answered Slow-toes:&mdash;</p>
+<br />
+
+<a name='The_Story_of_the_Dead_Game_and_the_Jackal'></a><h4><b>The Story of the Dead Game and the Jackal</b></h4>
+
+<p>&quot;In a town called 'Well-to-Dwell' there lived a mighty hunter, whose
+name was 'Grim-face,' Feeling a desire one day for a little venison, he
+took his bow, and went into the woods; where he soon killed a deer. As
+he was carrying the deer home, he came upon a wild boar of prodigious
+proportions. Laying the deer upon the earth, he fixed and discharged an
+arrow and struck the boar, which instantly rushed upon him with a roar
+louder than the last thunder, and ripped the hunter up. He fell like a
+tree cut by the axe, and lay dead along with the boar, and a snake also,
+which had been crushed by the feet of the combatants. Not long
+afterwards, there came that way, in his prowl for food, a Jackal, named
+'Howl o' Nights,' and cast eyes on the hunter, the deer, the boar, and
+the snake lying dead together. 'Aha!' said he,' what luck! Here's a
+grand dinner got ready for me! Good fortune can come, I see, as well as
+ill fortune. Let me think:&mdash;the man will be fine pickings for a month;
+the deer with the boar will last two more; the snake will do for
+to-morrow; and, as I am very particularly hungry, I will treat myself
+now to this bit of meat on the bow-horn,' So saying, he began to gnaw it
+asunder, and the bow-string slipping, the bow sprang back, and resolved
+Howl o' Nights into the five elements by death. That is my story,&quot;
+continued Slow-toes, &quot;and its application is for the wise:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Sentences of studied wisdom, nought avail they unapplied;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Though the blind man hold a lantern, yet his footsteps stray aside.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>The secret of success, indeed, is a free, contented, and yet
+enterprising mind. How say the books thereon?&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Wouldst thou know whose happy dwelling Fortune entereth unknown?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His, who careless of her favor, standeth fearless in his own;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His, who for the vague to-morrow barters not the sure to-day&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Master of himself, and sternly steadfast to the rightful way:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Very mindful of past service, valiant, faithful, true of heart&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unto such comes Lakshmi<a name="FNanchor9"></a><a href="#Footnote_9"><sup>[9]</sup></a> smiling&mdash;comes, and will not lightly part.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>&quot;What indeed,&quot; continued Slow-toes, &quot;is wealth, that we should prize it,
+or grieve to lose it?&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Be not haughty, being wealthy; droop not, having lost thine all;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fate doth play with mortal fortunes as a girl doth toss her ball.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>It is unstable by nature. We are told&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Worldly friendships, fair but fleeting, shadows of the clouds at noon</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Women, youth, new corn, and riches&mdash;these be pleasures passing soon.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>And it is idle to be anxious; the Master of Life knows how to sustain
+it. Is it not written?&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'For thy bread be not o'er thoughtful&mdash;God for all hath taken thought:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When the babe is born, the sweet milk to the mother's breast is brought.</span><br />
+<br />
+
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He who gave the swan her silver, and the hawk her plumes of pride,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And his purples to the peacock&mdash;He will verily provide.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>&quot;Yes, verily,&quot; said Slow-toes, &quot;wealth is bad to handle, and better left
+alone; there is no truer saying than this&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Though for good ends, waste not on wealth a minute;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Mud may be wiped, but wise men plunge not in it.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Hearing the wisdom of these monitions, Light o' Leap broke out, 'Good
+Slow-toes! thou art a wise protector of those that come to thee; thy
+learning comforts my enlightened friend, as elephants drag elephants
+from the mire,' And thus, on the best of terms, wandering where they
+pleased for food, the three lived there together.</p>
+
+<p>One day it chanced that a Deer named Dapple-back, who had seen some
+cause of alarm in the forest, came suddenly upon the three in his
+flight. Thinking the danger imminent, Slow-toes dropped into the water,
+King Golden-skin slipped into his hole, and Light o' Leap flew up into
+the top of a high tree. Thence he looked all round to a great distance,
+but could discover nothing. So they all came back again, and sat down
+together. Slow-toes welcomed the Deer.</p>
+
+<p>'Good Deer,' said he, 'may grass and water never fail thee at thy need.
+Gratify us by residing here, and consider this forest thine own.'</p>
+
+<p>'Indeed,' answered Dapple-back, 'I came hither for your protection,
+flying from a hunter; and to live with you in friendship is my greatest
+desire.'</p>
+
+<p>'Then the thing is settled,' observed Golden-skin.</p>
+
+<p>'Yes! yes!' said Light o' Leap, 'make yourself altogether at home!'</p>
+
+<p>So the Deer, charmed at his reception, ate grass and drank water, and
+laid himself down in the shade of a Banyan-tree to talk. Who does not
+know?&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Brunettes, and the Banyan's shadow,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Well-springs, and a brick-built wall.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Are all alike cool in the summer,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And warm in the winter&mdash;all.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'What made thee alarmed, friend Deer?' began Slow-toes. 'Do hunters ever
+come to this unfrequented forest?'</p>
+
+<p>'I have heard,' replied Dapple-back, 'that the Prince of the Kalinga
+country, Rukmangada, is coming here. He is even now encamped on the
+Cheenab River, on his march to subjugate the borders; and the hunters
+have been heard to say that he will halt to-morrow by this very lake of
+&quot;Camphor-water.&quot; Don't you think, as it is dangerous to stay, that we
+ought to resolve on something?'</p>
+
+<p>'I shall certainly go to another pool,' exclaimed Slow-toes.</p>
+
+<p>'It would be better,' answered the Crow and Deer together.</p>
+
+<p>'Yes!' remarked the King of the Mice, after a minute's thought; 'but how
+is Slow-toes to get across the country in time? Animals like our
+amphibious host are best in the water; on land he might suffer from his
+own design, like the merchant's son&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'The merchant's son laid plans for gains,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And saw his wife kissed for his pains.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'How came that about?' asked all. &quot;I'll tell you,&quot; answered Golden-skin.</p>
+<br />
+
+<a name='The_Prince_and_the_Wife_of_the_Merchants_Son'></a><h4><b>The Prince and the Wife of the Merchant's Son</b></h4>
+
+<p>&quot;In the country of Kanouj there was a King named Virasena, and he made
+his son viceroy of a city called Virapoora. The Prince was rich,
+handsome, and in the bloom of youth. Passing through the streets of his
+city one day, he observed a very lovely woman, whose name was
+L&aacute;vanyavati&mdash;i.e., the Beautiful&mdash;the wife of a merchant's son. On
+reaching his palace, full of her charms and of passionate admiration for
+them, he despatched a message to her, and a letter, by a female
+attendant:&mdash;who wonders at it?&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Ah! the gleaming, glancing arrows of a lovely woman's eye!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Feathered with her jetty lashes, perilous they pass us by:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Loosed at venture from the black bows of her arching brow they part,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All too penetrant and deadly for an undefended heart.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Now L&aacute;vanyavati, from the moment she saw the Prince, was hit with the
+same weapon of love that wounded him; but upon hearing the message of
+the attendant, she refused with dignity to receive his letter.</p>
+
+<p>'I am my husband's,' she said,'and that is my honor; for&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Beautiful the Ko&iacute;l<a name="FNanchor10"></a><a href="#Footnote_10"><sup>[10]</sup></a> seemeth for the sweetness of his song,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Beautiful the world esteemeth pious souls for patience strong;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Homely features lack not favor when true wisdom they reveal,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And a wife is fair and honored while her heart is firm and leal.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>What the lord of my life enjoins, that I do.'</p>
+
+<p>'Is such my answer?' asked the attendant.</p>
+
+<p>'It is,' said L&aacute;vanyavati.</p>
+
+<p>Upon the messenger reporting her reply to the Prince, he was in despair.</p>
+
+<p>'The God of the five shafts has hit me,' he exclaimed, 'and only her
+presence will cure my wound.'</p>
+
+<p>'We must make her husband bring her, then,' said the messenger.</p>
+
+<p>'That can never be,' replied the Prince.</p>
+
+<p>'It can,' replied the messenger&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Fraud may achieve what force would never try:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Jackal killed the Elephant thereby.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'How was that?' asked the Prince. The Slave related:&mdash;</p>
+<br />
+
+<a name='The_Story_of_the_Old_Jackal_and_the_Elephant'></a><h4><b>The Story of the Old Jackal and the Elephant</b></h4>
+
+<p>&quot;In the forest of Brahma<a name="FNanchor11"></a><a href="#Footnote_11"><sup>[11]</sup></a> lived an Elephant, whose name was
+'White-front.' The Jackals knew him, and said among themselves, 'If this
+great brute would but die, there would be four months' food for us, and
+plenty, out of his carcase.' With that an old Jackal stood up, and
+pledged himself to compass the death of the Elephant by his own wit.
+Accordingly, he sought for 'White-front,' and, going up to him, he made
+the reverential prostration of the eight members, gravely saluting him.</p>
+
+<p>'Divine creature,' said he, 'vouchsafe me the regard of one look.'</p>
+
+<p>'Who art thou?' grunted the Elephant,'and whence comest thou?'</p>
+
+<p>'I am only a Jackal,' said the other; 'but the beasts of the forest are
+convinced that it is not expedient to live without a king, and they have
+met in full council, and despatched me to acquaint your Royal Highness
+that on you, endowed with so many lordly qualities, their choice has
+fallen for a sovereign over the forest here; for&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Who is just, and strong, and wise?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who is true to social ties?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He is formed for Emperies.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Let your Majesty, therefore, repair thither at once, that the moment of
+fortunate conjunction may not escape us.' So saying he led the way,
+followed at a great pace by White-front, who was eager to commence his
+reign.</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Presently the Jackal brought him upon a deep slough, into which he
+plunged heavily before he could stop himself.</p>
+
+<p>'Good master Jackal,' cried the Elephant,'what's to do now? I am up to
+my belly in this quagmire.'</p>
+
+<p>'Perhaps your Majesty,' said the Jackal, with an impudent laugh, 'will
+condescend to take hold of the tip of my brush with your trunk, and so
+get out.'</p>
+
+<p>'Then White-front, the Elephant, knew that he had been deceived; and
+thus he sank in the slime, and was devoured by the Jackals. Hence,'
+continued the attendant, 'is why I suggested stratagem to your
+Highness,'</p>
+
+<p>Shortly afterwards, by the Slave's advice, the Prince sent for the
+merchant's son (whose name was Charudatta), and appointed him to be near
+his person; and one day, with the same design, when he was just come
+from the bath, and had on his jewels, he summoned Charudatta, and said&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;I have a vow to keep to Gauri&mdash;bring hither to me every evening for a
+month some lady of good family, that I may do honor to her, according to
+my vow; and begin to-day.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>Charudatta in due course brought a lady of quality, and, having
+introduced her, retired to watch the interview. The Prince, without even
+approaching his fair visitor, made her the most respectful obeisances,
+and dismissed her with gifts of ornaments, sandal-wood, and perfumes,
+under the protection of a guard. This made Charudatta confident, and
+longing to get some of these princely presents he brought his own wife
+next evening. When the Prince recognized the charming L&aacute;vanyavati&mdash;the
+joy of his soul&mdash;he sprang to meet her, and kissed and caressed her
+without the least restraint. At sight of this the miserable Charudatta
+stood transfixed with despair&mdash;the very picture of wretchedness'&mdash;&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'And you too, Slow-toes&mdash;but where is he gone?' abruptly asked King
+Golden-skin.</p>
+
+<p>Now Slow-toes had not chosen to wait the end of the story, but was gone
+before, and Golden-skin and the others followed him up in some anxiety.
+The Tortoise had been painfully travelling along, until a hunter, who
+was beating the wood for game, had overtaken him. The fellow, who was
+very hungry, picked him up, fastened him on his bow-stick, and set off
+for home; while the Deer, the Crow, and the Mouse, who had witnessed
+the capture, followed them in terrible concern. 'Alas!' cried the
+Mouse-king, 'he is gone!&mdash;and such a friend!</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Friend! gracious word!&mdash;the heart to tell is ill able</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whence came to men this jewel of a syllable.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'Let us,' continued he to his companions, 'let us make one attempt, at
+least, to rescue Slow-toes before the hunter is out of the wood!'</p>
+
+<p>'Only tell us how to do it,' replied they.</p>
+
+<p>'Do thus,' said Golden-skin: 'let Dapple-back hasten on to the water,
+and lie down there and make himself appear dead; and do you, Light o'
+Leap, hover over him and peck about his body. The hunter is sure to put
+the Tortoise down to get the venison, and I will gnaw his bonds.'</p>
+
+<p>'The Deer and the Crow started at once; and the hunter, who was sitting
+down to rest under a tree and drinking water, soon caught sight of the
+Deer, apparently dead. Drawing his wood-knife, and putting the Tortoise
+down by the water, he hastened to secure the Deer, and Golden-skin, in
+the meantime, gnawed asunder the string that held Slow-toes, who
+instantly dropped into the pool. The Deer, of course, when the hunter
+got near, sprang up and made off, and when he returned to the tree the
+Tortoise was gone also. &quot;I deserve this,&quot; thought he&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Whoso for greater quits his gain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shall have his labor for his pain;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The things unwon unwon remain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And what was won is lost again.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>And so lamenting, he went to his village. Slow-toes and his friends,
+quit of all fears, repaired together to their new habitations, and there
+lived happily.</p>
+
+<p>Then spake the King Sudarsana's sons, &quot;We have heard every word, and are
+delighted; it fell out just as we wished.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;I rejoice thereat, my Princes,&quot; said Vishnu-Sarman; &quot;may it also fall
+out according to this my wish&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Lakshmi give you friends like these!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lakshmi keep your lands in ease!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Set, your sovereign thrones beside,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Policy, a winsome bride!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And He, whose forehead-jewel is the moon</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Give peace to us and all&mdash;serene and soon.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>FOOTNOTES:</p>
+
+
+
+
+
+<hr style='width: 65%;' />
+<a name='THE_PARTING_OF_FRIENDS'></a><h2><b>THE PARTING OF FRIENDS</b></h2>
+
+<p>Then spake the Royal Princes to Vishnu-Sarman,</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Reverend Sir! we have listened to the 'Winning of Friends,' we would
+now hear how friends are parted.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Attend, then,&quot; replied the Sage, &quot;to 'the Parting of Friends,' the
+first couplet of which runs in this wise&mdash;</p>
+
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'The Jackal set&mdash;of knavish cunning full&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>At loggerheads the Lion and the Bull.'</span><br />
+
+<p>&quot;How was that?&quot; asked the sons of the Rajah.</p>
+
+<p>Vishnu-Sarman proceeded to relate:&mdash;</p>
+<br />
+
+<a name='The_Story_of_the_Lion_the_Jackals_and_the_Bull'></a><h4><b>The Story of the Lion, the Jackals, and the Bull</b></h4>
+
+<p>&quot;In the Deccan there is a city called Golden-town, and a wealthy
+merchant lived there named Well-to-do. He had abundant means, but as
+many of his relations were even yet richer, his mind was bent: upon
+outdoing them by gaining more. Enough is never what we have&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Looking down on lives below them, men of little store are great;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Looking up to higher fortunes, hard to each man seems his fate.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>And is not wealth won by courage and enterprise?&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'As a bride, unwisely wedded, shuns the cold caress of eld,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So, from coward souls and slothful, Lakshmi's favors turn repelled.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Ease, ill-health, home-keeping, sleeping, woman-service, and content&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In the path that leads to greatness these be six obstructions sent.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>And wealth that increases not, diminishes&mdash;a little gain is so far
+good&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Seeing how the soorma wasteth, seeing how the ant-hill grows,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Little adding unto little&mdash;live, give, learn, as life-time goes.'</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Drops of water falling, falling, falling, brim the chatty o'er;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wisdom comes in little lessons&mdash;little gains make largest store.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Moved by these reflections Well-to-do loaded a cart with wares of all
+kinds, yoked two bulls to it, named Lusty-life and Roarer, and started
+for Kashmir to trade. He had not gone far upon his journey when in
+passing through a great forest called Bramble-wood, Lusty-life slipped
+down and broke his foreleg. At sight of this disaster Well-to-do fell
+a-thinking, and repeated&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Men their cunning schemes may spin&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>God knows who shall lose or win.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Comforting himself with such philosophy, Well-to-do left Lusty-life
+there, and went on his way. The Bull watched him depart, and stood
+mournfully on three legs, alone in the forest. 'Well, well,' he thought,
+'it is all destiny whether I live or die:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Shoot a hundred shafts, the quarry lives and flies&mdash;not due to death;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When his hour is come, a grass-blade hath a point to stop his breath.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>As the days passed by, and Lusty-life picked about in the tender forest
+grass, he grew wonderfully well, and fat of carcase, and happy, and
+bellowed about the wood as though it were his own. Now, the reigning
+monarch of the forest was King Tawny-hide the Lion, who ruled over the
+whole country absolutely, by right of having deposed everybody else. Is
+not might right?&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Robes were none, nor oil of unction, when the King of Beasts was crowned:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Twas his own fierce roar proclaimed him, rolling all his kingdom round.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>One morning, his Majesty, being exceedingly thirsty, had repaired to the
+bank of the Jumna to drink water, and just as he was about to lap it,
+the bellow of Lusty-life, awful as the thunder of the last day, reached
+the imperial ears. Upon catching the sound the King retreated in
+trepidation to his own lair, without drinking a drop, and stood there in
+silence and alarm revolving what it could mean. In this position he was
+observed by the sons of his minister, two jackals named Karataka and
+Damanaka, who began to remark upon it.</p>
+
+<p>'Friend Karataka,' said the last,'what makes our royal master slink away
+from the river when he was dying to drink?'</p>
+
+<p>'Why should we care?' replied Karataka. 'It's bad enough to serve him,
+and be neglected for our pains&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Oh, the bitter salt of service!&mdash;toil, frost, fire, are not so keen:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Half such heavy penance bearing, tender consciences were clean.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'Nay, friend! never think thus,' said Damanaka&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'What but for their vassals,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Elephant and man&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Swing of golden tassels,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wave of silken fan&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But for regal manner</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That the &quot;Chattra&quot;<a name="FNanchor12"></a><a href="#Footnote_12"><sup>[12]</sup></a> brings,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Horse, and foot, and banner&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What would come of kings?'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'I care not,' replied Karataka; 'we have nothing to do with it, and
+matters that don't concern us are best left alone. You know the story of
+the Monkey, don't you?'&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'The Monkey drew the sawyer's wedge, and died:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Let meddlers mark it, and be edified.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'No!' said Damanaka. 'How was it?'</p>
+
+<p>'In this way,' answered Karataka:&mdash;</p>
+<br />
+
+<a name='The_Story_of_the_Monkey_and_the_Wedge'></a><h4><b>The Story of the Monkey and the Wedge</b></h4>
+
+<p>&quot;In South Behar, close by the retreat of Dhurmma, there was an open plot
+of ground, upon which a temple was in course of erection, under the
+management of a man of the K&aacute;yeth caste, named Subhadatta. A carpenter
+upon the works had partly sawed through a long beam of wood, and wedged
+it open, and was gone away, leaving the wedge fixed. Shortly afterwards
+a large herd of monkeys came frolicking that way, and one of their
+number, directed doubtless by the Angel of death, got astride the beam,
+and grasped the wedge, with his tail and lower parts dangling down
+between the pieces of the wood. Not content with this, in the mischief
+natural to monkeys, he began to tug at the wedge; till at last it
+yielded to a great effort and came out; when the wood closed upon him,
+and jammed him all fast. So perished the monkey, miserably crushed; and
+I say again&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Let meddlers mark it, and be edified.'</span><br /></div>
+
+<p>'But surely,' argued Damanaka, 'servants are bound to watch the
+movements of their masters!'</p>
+
+<p>'Let the prime minister do it, then,' answered Karataka; 'it is his
+business to overlook things, and subordinates shouldn't interfere in the
+department of their chief. You might get ass's thanks for it&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'The Ass that hee-hawed, when the dog should do it,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For his lord's welfare, like an ass did rue it.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Damanaka asked how that happened, and Karataka related:&mdash;</p>
+<br />
+
+<a name='The_Story_of_the_Washermans_Jackass'></a><h4><b>The Story of the Washerman's Jackass</b></h4>
+
+<p>&quot;There was a certain Washerman at Benares, whose name was Carp&uacute;rapataka,
+and he had an Ass and a Dog in his courtyard; the first tethered, and
+the last roaming loose. Once on a time, when he had been spending his
+morning in the society of his wife, whom he had just married, and had
+fallen to sleep in her arms, a robber entered the house, and began to
+carry off his goods. The Ass observed the occupation of the thief, and
+was much concerned.</p>
+
+<p>'Good Dog,' said he, 'this is thy matter: why dost thou not bark aloud,
+and rouse the master?'</p>
+
+<p>'Gossip Ass,' replied the Dog, 'leave me alone to guard the premises. I
+can do it, if I choose; but the truth is, this master of ours thinks
+himself so safe lately that he clean forgets me, and I don't find my
+allowance of food nearly regular enough. Masters will do so; and a
+little fright will put him in mind of his defenders again.'</p>
+
+<p>'Thou scurvy cur!' exclaimed the Ass&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'At the work-time, asking wages&mdash;is it like a faithful herd?'</p>
+
+<p>'Thou extreme Ass!' replied the Dog.</p>
+
+<p>'When the work's done, grudging wages&mdash;is that acting like a lord?'</p>
+
+<p>'Mean-spirited beast,' retorted the Ass, 'who neglectest thy master's
+business! Well, then, I at least will endeavor to arouse him; it is no
+less than religion,</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Serve the Sun with sweat of body; starve thy maw to feed the flame;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Stead thy lord with all thy service; to thy death go, quit of blame.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>So saying, he put forth his very best braying. The Washerman sprang up
+at the noise, and missing the thief, turned in a rage upon the Ass for
+disturbing him, and beat it with a cudgel to such an extent that the
+blows resolved the poor animal into the five elements of death. 'So
+that,' continued Karataka, 'is why I say, Let the prime minister look to
+him. The hunting for prey is our duty&mdash;let us stick to it, then. And
+this,' he said, with a meditative look, 'need not trouble us to-day; for
+we have a capital dish of the royal leavings.'</p>
+
+<p>'What!' said Damanaka, rough with rage, 'dost thou serve the King for
+the sake of thy belly? Why take any such trouble to preserve an
+existence like thine?&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Many prayers for him are uttered whereon many a life relies;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Tis but one poor fool the fewer when the gulping Raven dies.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>For assisting friends, and defeating enemies also, the service of kings
+is desirable. To enter upon it for a mere living makes the thing low
+indeed. There must be dogs and elephants; but servants need not be like
+hungry curs, while their masters are noble. What say the books?</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Give thy Dog the merest mouthful, and he crouches at thy feet,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wags his tail, and fawns, and grovels, in his eagerness to eat;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bid the Elephant be feeding, and the best of fodder bring;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gravely&mdash;after much entreaty&mdash;condescends that mighty king.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'Well, well!' said Karataka; 'the books are nothing to us, who are not
+councillors.'</p>
+
+<p>'But we may come to be,' replied Damanaka; 'men rise, not by chance or
+nature, but by exertions&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'By their own deeds men go downward, by them men mount upward all,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like the diggers of a well, and like the builders of a wall.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Advancement is slow&mdash;but that is in the nature of things&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Rushes down the hill the crag, which upward 'twas so hard to roll:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So to virtue slowly rises&mdash;so to vice quick sinks the soul.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'Very good,' observed Karataka; 'but what is all this talk about?'</p>
+
+<p>'Why! don't you see our Royal Master there, and how he came home without
+drinking? I know he has been horribly frightened,' said Damanaka.</p>
+
+<p>'How do you know it?' asked the other.</p>
+
+<p>'By my perception&mdash;at a glance!' replied Damanaka; 'and I mean to make
+out of this occasion that which shall put his Majesty at my disposal,'</p>
+
+<p>'Now,' exclaimed Karataka, 'it is thou who art ignorant about service&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Who speaks unasked, or comes unbid,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or counts on favor&mdash;will be chid.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'I ignorant about service!' said Damanaka; 'no, no, my friend, I know
+the secret of it&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Wise, modest, constant, ever close at hand,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Not weighing but obeying all command,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Such servant by a Monarch's throne may stand.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'In any case, the King often rates thee,' remarked Karataka, 'for coming
+to the presence unsummoned.'</p>
+
+<p>'A dependent,' replied Damanaka, 'should nevertheless present himself;
+he must make himself known to the great man, at any risk&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Pitiful, that fearing failure, therefore no beginning makes,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who forswears his daily dinner for the chance of stomach-aches?'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>and besides, to be near is at last to be needful;&mdash;is it not said&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Nearest to the King is dearest, be thy merit low or high;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Women, creeping plants, and princes, twine round that which groweth nigh.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'Well,' inquired Karataka, 'what wilt thou say, being come to him?'</p>
+
+<p>'First,' replied Damanaka, 'I will discover if his Majesty is well
+affected to me.'</p>
+
+<p>'How do you compass that?' asked the other.</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, easily! by a look, a word,' answered Damanaka; 'and that
+ascertained, I will proceed to speak what will put him at my disposal.'</p>
+
+<p>'I can't see how you can venture to speak,' objected the other,
+'without an opportunity&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'If Vrihaspati, the Grave,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Spoke a sentence out of season,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Even Vrihaspati would have</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Strong rebuke for such unreason.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'Pray don't imagine I shall speak unseasonably,' interrupted Damanaka;
+'if that is all you fear, I will start at once.'</p>
+
+<p>'Go, then,' said Karataka; 'and may you be as lucky as you hope.'</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Thereupon Damanaka set out for the lair of King Tawny-hide; putting on,
+as he approached it, the look of one greatly disconcerted. The Rajah
+observed him coming, and gave permission that he should draw near; of
+which Damanaka availing himself, made reverential prostration of the
+eight members and sat down upon his haunches.</p>
+
+<p>'You have come at last, then, Sir Jackal!' growled his Majesty.</p>
+
+<p>'Great Monarch!' humbly replied Damanaka, 'my service is not worthy of
+laying at your imperial feet, but a servant should attend when he can
+perform a service, and therefore I am come&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'When Kings' ears itch, they use a straw to scratch 'em;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When Kings' foes plot, they get wise men to match 'em.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'H'm!' growled the Lion.</p>
+
+<p>'Your Majesty suspects my intellect, I fear,' continued the
+Jackal,'after so long an absence from your Majesty's feet; but, if I may
+say so, it is still sound.'</p>
+
+<p>'H'm!' growled the Lion again.</p>
+
+<p>'A king, may it please your Majesty, should know how to estimate his
+servants, whatever their position&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Pearls are dull in leaden settings, but the setter is to blame;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Glass will glitter like the ruby, dulled with dust&mdash;are they the same?</span><br />
+<br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'And a fool may tread on jewels, setting in his crown mere glass;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yet, at selling, gems are gems, and fardels but for fardels pass.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'Servants, gracious liege! are good or bad as they are entertained. Is
+it not written?&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Horse and weapon, lute and volume, man and woman, gift of speech,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Have their uselessness or uses in the One who owneth each.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'And if I have been traduced to your Majesty as a dull fellow, that hath
+not made me so&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Not disparagement nor slander kills the spirit of the brave;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fling a torch down, upward ever burns the brilliant flame it gave.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'Accept then, Sire, from the humblest of your slaves his very humble
+counsel&mdash;for</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Wisdom from the mouth of children be it overpast of none;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What man scorns to walk by lamplight in the absence of the sun?'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'Good Damanaka,' said King Tawny-hide, somewhat appeased, 'how is it
+that thou, so wise a son of our first minister, hast been absent all
+this while from our Court? But now speak thy mind fearlessly: what
+wouldst thou?'</p>
+
+<p>'Will your Majesty deign to answer one question?' said Damanaka.
+'Wherefore came He back from the river without drinking?'</p>
+
+<p>'Hush!' whispered the King, 'thou hast hit right upon my trouble. I knew
+no one unto whom I might confide it; but thou seemest a faithful fellow,
+and I will tell thee. Listen, then,' continued his Majesty in an
+agitated whisper, 'there is some awful beast that was never seen before
+in this wood here; and we shall have to leave it, look you. Did you hear
+by chance the inconceivable great roar he gave? What a strong beast it
+must be to have such a voice!'</p>
+
+<p>'May it please your Majesty, I did hear the noise,' said the Jackal,
+'and there is doubtless cause for terrible apprehension therein; but
+take comfort, my Liege, he is no minister who bids thee prepare for
+either war or resignation. All will go well, and your Majesty will learn
+by this difficulty which be your best servants,'</p>
+
+<p>'Good Jackal,' said Tawny-hide, 'I am horribly frightened about it.'</p>
+
+<p>'I can see that,' thought Damanaka; but he only said, 'Fear nothing, my
+liege, while thy servant survives,'</p>
+
+<p>'What shall I do?' asked the King.</p>
+
+<p>'It is well to encourage those who can avert disaster. If your Majesty
+condescended now to bestow some favor on Karataka and the other&mdash;&mdash;'</p>
+
+<p>'It shall be done,' said the Rajah; and, summoning the other Jackals, he
+gave them and Damanaka a magnificent gift of flesh, and they left the
+presence, undertaking to meet the threatened danger.</p>
+
+<p>'But, brother,' began Karataka,'haven't we eaten the King's dinner
+without knowing what the danger is which we are to meet, and whether we
+can obviate it?'</p>
+
+<p>'Hold thy peace,' said Damanaka, laughing; 'I know very well what the
+danger is! It was a bull, aha! that bellowed&mdash;a bull, my brother&mdash;whose
+beef you and I could pick, much more the King our master.'</p>
+
+<p>'And why not tell him so?' asked Karataka.</p>
+
+<p>'What! and quiet his Majesty's fears! And where would our splendid
+dinner have been then? No, no, my friend&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Set not your lord at ease; for, doing that,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Might starve you as it starved &quot;Curd-ear&quot; the Cat.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'Who was Curd-ear, the Cat?' inquired Karataka. Damanaka related:&mdash;</p>
+<br />
+
+<a name='The_Story_of_the_Cat_Who_Served_the_Lion'></a><h4><b>The Story of the Cat Who Served the Lion</b></h4>
+
+<p>&quot;Far away in the North, on a mountain named 'Thousand-Crags,' there
+lived a lion called 'Mighty-heart'; and he was much annoyed by a certain
+mouse, who made a custom of nibbling his mane while he lay asleep in his
+den. The Lion would wake in a great rage at finding the ends of his
+magnificent mane made ragged, but the little mouse ran into his hole,
+and he could never catch it. After much consideration he went down to a
+village, and got a Cat named Curd-ear to come to his cave with much
+persuasion. He kept the Cat royally on all kinds of dainties, and slept
+comfortably without having his mane nibbled, as the mouse would now
+never venture out. Whenever the Lion heard the mouse scratching about,
+that was always a signal for regaling the Cat in a most distinguished
+style. But one day, the wretched mouse being nearly starved, he took
+courage to creep timidly from his hole, and was directly pounced upon by
+Curd-ear and killed. After that the Lion heard no more of the mouse, and
+quite left off his regular entertainments of the Cat. No!&quot; concluded
+Damanaka, &quot;we will keep our mouse alive for his Majesty.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>So conversing, the Jackals went away to find Lusty-life the Bull, and
+upon discovering him, Karataka squatted down with great dignity at the
+foot of a tree, while Damanaka approached to accost him.</p>
+
+<p>'Bull,' said Damanaka, 'I am the warder of this forest under the King
+Tawny-hide, and Karataka the Jackal there is his General. The General
+bids thee come before him, or else instantly depart from the wood. It
+were better for thee to obey, for his anger is terrible,'</p>
+
+<p>'Thereupon Lusty-life, knowing nothing of the country customs, advanced
+at once to Karataka, made the respectful prostration of the eight
+members, and said timidly, 'My Lord General! what dost thou bid me do?&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Strength serves Reason. Saith the Mahout, when he beats the brazen drum,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Ho! ye elephants, to this work must your mightinesses come.&quot;'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'Bull,' answered Karataka, 'thou canst remain in the wood no longer
+unless thou goest directly to lay thyself at our Royal master's imperial
+feet.'</p>
+
+<p>'My Lord,' replied the Bull, 'give me a guarantee of safety, and I will
+go.'</p>
+
+<p>'Bull,' said Karataka, 'thou art foolish; fear nothing&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;When the King of Chedi cursed him,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Krishna scorned to make reply;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lions roar the thunder quiet,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Jackals'-yells they let go by.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Our Lord the King will not vouchsafe his anger to thee; knowest thou
+not&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Mighty natures war with mighty: when the raging tempests blow,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>O'er the green rice harmless pass they, but they lay the palm-trees low,'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'So the Jackals, keeping Lusty-life in the rear, went towards the palace
+of King Tawny-hide; where the Rajah received them with much
+graciousness, and bade them sit down.</p>
+
+<p>'Have you seen him?' asked the King.</p>
+
+<p>'We have seen him, your Majesty,' answered Damanaka; 'it is quite as
+your Majesty expected&mdash;the creature has enormous strength, and wishes
+to see your Majesty. Will you be seated, Sire, and prepare yourself&mdash;it
+will never do to appear alarmed at a noise.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, if it was only a noise,' began the Rajah.</p>
+
+<p>'Ah, but the cause, Sire! that was what had to be found out; like the
+secret of Swing-ear the Spirit.'</p>
+
+<p>'And who might Swing-ear be?' asked the King.</p>
+<br />
+
+<a name='The_Story_of_the_Terrible_Bell'></a><h4><b>The Story of the Terrible Bell</b></h4>
+
+<p>&quot;A goblin, your Majesty,&quot; responded Damanaka, &quot;it seemed so, at least,
+to the good people of Brahmapoora. A thief had stolen a bell from the
+city, and was making off with that plunder, and more, into the
+Sri-parvata hills, when he was killed by a tiger. The bell lay in the
+jungle till some monkeys picked it up, and amused themselves by
+constantly ringing it. The townspeople found the bones of the man, and
+heard the noise of the bell all about the hills; so they gave out that
+there was a terrible devil there, whose ears rang like bells as he swung
+them about, and whose delight was to devour men. Every one, accordingly,
+was leaving the town, when a peasant woman named Kar&aacute;la, who liked
+belief the better for a little proof, came to the Rajah.</p>
+
+<p>'Highness!' she observed, 'for a consideration I could settle this
+Swing-ear.'</p>
+
+<p>'You could!' exclaimed the Rajah.</p>
+
+<p>'I think so!' repeated the woman.</p>
+
+<p>'Give her a consideration forthwith,' said the Rajah.</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Kar&aacute;la, who had her own ideas upon the matter, took the present and set
+out. Being come to the hills, she made a circle, and did homage to
+Gunputtee,<a name="FNanchor13"></a><a href="#Footnote_13"><sup>[13]</sup></a> without whom nothing prospers. Then, taking some fruit
+she had brought, such as monkeys love extremely, she scattered it up and
+down in the wood, and withdrew to watch. Very soon the monkeys finding
+the fruit, put down the bell, to do justice to it, and the woman picking
+it up, bore it back to the town, where she became an object of uncommon
+veneration. We, indeed,&quot; concluded Damanaka, &quot;bring you a Bull instead
+of a bell&mdash;your Majesty shall now see him!&quot;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Thereupon Lusty-life was introduced, and, the interview passing off
+well, he remained many days in the forest on excellent terms with the
+Lion.</p>
+
+<p>'One day another Lion, named 'Stiff-ears,' the brother of King
+Tawny-hide, came to visit him. The King received him with all imaginable
+respect, bade him be seated, and rose from his throne to go and kill
+some beasts for his refreshment.</p>
+
+<p>'May it please your Majesty,' interposed the Bull, 'a deer was slain
+to-day&mdash;where is its flesh?'</p>
+
+<p>'Damanaka and his brother know best,' said the King.</p>
+
+<p>'Let us ascertain if there be any,' suggested the Bull.</p>
+
+<p>'It is useless,' said the King, laughing&mdash;'they leave none,'</p>
+
+<p>'What!' exclaimed the Bull, 'have those Jackals eaten a whole deer?'</p>
+
+<p>'Eaten it, spoiled it, and given it away,' answered Tawny-hide; 'they
+always do so,'</p>
+
+<p>'And this without your Majesty's sanction?' asked the Bull.</p>
+
+<p>'Oh! certainly not with my sanction,' said the King.</p>
+
+<p>'Then,' exclaimed the Bull, 'it is too bad: and in Ministers too!&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Narrow-necked to let out little, big of belly to keep much,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As a flagon is&mdash;the Vizir of a Sultan should be such.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'No wealth will stand such waste, your Majesty&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'He who thinks a minute little, like a fool misuses more;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He who counts a cowry nothing, being wealthy, will be poor.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'A king's treasury, my liege, is the king's life.'</p>
+
+<p>'Good brother,' observed Stiff-ears, who had heard what the Bull said,
+'these Jackals are your Ministers of Home and Foreign Affairs&mdash;they
+should not have direction of the Treasury. They are old servants, too,
+and you know the saying&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Brahmans, soldiers, these and kinsmen&mdash;of the three set none in charge:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For the Brahman, tho' you rack him, yields no treasure small or large;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And the soldier, being trusted, writes his quittance with his sword,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And the kinsman cheats his kindred by the charter of the word;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But a servant old in service, worse than any one is thought,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who, by long-tried license fearless, knows his master's anger nought.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Ministers, my royal brother, are often like obstinate swellings that
+want squeezing, and yours must be kept in order.'</p>
+
+<p>'They are not particularly obedient, I confess,' said Tawny-hide.</p>
+
+<p>'It is very wrong,' replied Stiff-ears; 'and if you will be advised by
+me&mdash;as we have banqueted enough to-day&mdash;you will appoint this
+grain-eating and sagacious Bull your Superintendent of Stores.'</p>
+
+<p>'It shall be so,' exclaimed the King.</p>
+
+<p>'Lusty-life was accordingly appointed to serve out the provisions, and
+for many days Tawny-hide showed him favor beyond all others in the
+Court.</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Now the Jackals soon found that food was no longer so freely provided
+by this arrangement as before, and they met to consult about it.</p>
+
+<p>'It is all our own fault,' said Damanaka, 'and people must suffer for
+their own mistakes. You know who said&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;I that could not leave alone</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Streak-o'-Gold,' must therefore moan.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She that took the House-wife's place</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lost the nose from off her face.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Take this lesson to thy heart&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fools for folly suffer smart.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'No!' said Karataka, 'how was it?' Damanaka related:&mdash;</p>
+<br />
+
+<a name='The_Story_of_the_Prince_and_the_Procuress'></a><h4><b>The Story of the Prince and the Procuress</b></h4>
+
+<p>&quot;In the city of 'Golden-Streets' there reigned a valorous King, named
+Vira-vikrama, whose officer of justice was one day taking away to
+punishment a certain Barber, when he was stopped by a strolling
+mendicant, who held him by the skirts, and cried out, 'Punish not this
+man&mdash;punish them that do wrong of their own knowledge.' Being asked his
+meaning, he recited the foregoing verses, and, being still further
+questioned, he told this story&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;I am Prince Kandarpa-ketu, son of the King of Ceylon. Walking one day
+in my summer-garden, I heard a merchant-captain narrating how that out
+at sea, deep under water, on the fourteenth day of the moon, he had seen
+what was like nothing but the famous tree of Paradise, and sitting under
+it a lady of most lustrous beauty, bedecked with strings of pearls like
+Lukshmi herself, reclining, with a lute in her hands, on what appeared
+to be a golden couch crusted all over with precious stones. At once I
+engaged the captain and his ship, and steered to the spot of which he
+told me. On reaching it I beheld the beautiful apparition as he had
+described it, and, transported with the exquisite beauty of the lady, I
+leapt after her into the sea. In a moment I found myself in a city of
+gold; and in an apartment of a golden palace, surrounded by young and
+beautiful girls, I found the Sea-queen. She perceived my approach, and
+sent an attendant with a courteous message to meet me. In reply to my
+questions, I learned that the lady was the Princess Ratnamanjari,
+daughter of the King of All the Spirits&mdash;and how she had made a vow that
+whoever should first come to see her golden city, with his own eyes,
+should marry her. So I married her by the form called Gundharva, or
+'Union by mutual consent,' and spent many and happy days in her
+delightful society. One day she took me aside, and said, 'Dear Prince!
+all these delights, and I myself, are thine to enjoy; only that picture
+yonder, of the Fairy Streak-o'-Gold, that thou must never touch!' For a
+long time I observed this injunction; at last, impelled by resistless
+curiosity, I laid my hand on the picture of 'Streak-o'-Gold,' In one
+instant her little foot, lovely as the lotus-blossom, advanced from out
+of the painting, and launched me through sea and air into my own
+country. Since that I have been a miserable wanderer; and passing
+through this city, I chanced to lodge at a Cowkeeper's hut, and saw the
+truth of this Barber's affair. The herdsman returned at night with his
+cattle, and found his wife talking with the wife of the Barber, who is
+no better than a bawd. Enraged at this, the man beat his wife, tied her
+to the milking-post, and fell asleep. In the dead of the night the
+Barber's wife came back, and said to the woman, 'He, whom thou knowest,
+is burnt with the cruel fire of thine absence, and lies nigh to death;
+go therefore and console him, and I will tie myself to the post until
+thou returnest.' This was done, and the Cowkeeper presently awoke. 'Ah!
+thou light thing!' he said jeeringly, 'why dost not thou keep promise,
+and meet thy gallant?' The Barber's wife could make no reply; whereat
+becoming incensed, the man cried out, 'What! dost thou scorn to speak to
+me? I will cut thy nose off!' And so he did, and then lay down to sleep
+again. Very soon the Cowkeeper's wife came back and asked if 'all was
+well.' 'Look at my face!' said the Barber's wife, 'and you will see if
+all is well.' The woman could do nothing but take her place again,
+while the Barber's wife, picking up the severed nose, and at a sad loss
+how to account for it, went to her house. In the morning, before it was
+light, the Barber called to her to bring his box of razors, and she
+bringing one only, he flung it away in a passion. 'Oh, the knave!' she
+cried out, directly, aloud, 'Neighbors, neighbors! he has cut my nose
+off!' and so she took him before the officers. The Cowkeeper, meantime,
+wondering at his wife's patience, made some inquiry about her nose;
+whereto she replied, 'Cruel wretch! thou canst not harm a virtuous
+woman. If Yama and the seven guardians of the world know me chaste, then
+be my face unmaimed!' The herdsman hastened to fetch a light, and
+finding her features unaltered, he flung himself at her feet, and begged
+forgiveness. For,</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Never tires the fire of burning, never wearies death of slaying,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor the sea of drinking rivers, nor the bright-eyed of betraying,'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Thereupon the King's officer dismissed Kandarpa-ketu, and did justice by
+setting the Barber free, shaving the head of the Barber's wife, and
+punishing the Cowkeeper's.</p>
+
+<p>'That is my story,' concluded Damanaka, 'and thence I said that we had
+no reason to complain.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, but we must do something,' said Karataka.</p>
+
+<p>'Yes! How shall we break the friendship of the King with the Bull?'
+asked the other.</p>
+
+<p>'It is very strong,' observed Karataka.</p>
+
+<p>'But we can do it,' replied the other.</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'What force would fail to win, fraud can attain:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Crow despatched the Serpent by a chain.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'How did that occur?' asked Karataka.</p>
+
+<p>Damanaka related:&mdash;</p>
+<br />
+
+<a name='The_Story_of_the_Black_Snake_and_the_Golden_Chain'></a><h4><b>The Story of the Black Snake and the Golden Chain</b></h4>
+
+<p>&quot;A pair of Crows had their abode in a certain tree, the hollow of which
+was occupied by a black snake, who had often devoured their young. The
+Hen-bird, finding herself breeding again, thus addressed her mate:
+'Husband, we must leave this tree; we shall never rear young ones while
+this black snake lives here! You know the saw&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'From false friends that breed thee strife,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From a house with serpents rife,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Saucy slaves and brawling wife&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Get thee out, to save thy life.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'My dear,' replied the Crow, 'you need not fear; I have put up with him
+till I am tired. Now I will put an end to him.'</p>
+
+<p>'How can you fight with a great black snake like that?' said the
+Hen-bird.</p>
+
+<p>'Doubt nothing,' answered the other&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'He that hath sense hath strength; the fool is weak:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Lion proud died by the Hare so meek,'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'How came that about?' asked the Hen-Crow.</p>
+
+<p>'Thus,' replied her mate:&mdash;</p>
+<br />
+
+<a name='The_Story_of_the_Lion_and_the_Old_Hare'></a><h4><b>The Story of the Lion and the Old Hare</b></h4>
+
+<p>&quot;On the Mandara mountain there lived a Lion named Fierce-of-heart, and
+he was perpetually making massacre of all the wild animals. The thing
+grew so bad that the beasts held a public meeting, and drew up a
+respectful remonstrance to the Lion in these words:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Wherefore should your Majesty thus make carnage of us all? If it may
+please you, we ourselves will daily furnish a beast for your Majesty's
+meal.&quot; The Lion responded, &quot;If that arrangement is more agreeable to
+you, be it so.&quot;; and from that time a beast was allotted to him daily,
+and daily devoured. One day it came to the turn of an old hare to supply
+the royal table, who reflected to himself as he walked along, &quot;I can but
+die, and I will go to my death leisurely.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Now Fierce-of-heart, the lion, was pinched with hunger, and seeing the
+Hare so approaching he roared out, &quot;How darest thou thus delay in
+coming?&quot;</p>
+
+<p>'Sire,' replied the Hare, 'I am not to blame. I was detained on the road
+by another lion, who exacted an oath from me to return when I should
+have informed your Majesty.'</p>
+
+<p>'Go,' exclaimed King Fierce-of-heart in a rage; 'show me, instantly,
+where this insolent villain of a lion lives.'</p>
+
+<p>&quot;The Hare led the way accordingly till he came to a deep well, whereat
+he stopped, and said, 'Let my lord the King come hither and behold him.'
+The Lion approached, and beheld his own reflection in the water of the
+well, upon which, in his passion, he directly flung himself, and so
+perished.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;I have heard your story,&quot; said the Hen-Crow, &quot;but what plan do you
+propose?&quot;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;My dear,&quot; replied her mate, &quot;the Rajah's son comes here every day to
+bathe in the stream. When he takes off his gold anklet, and lays it on
+the stone, do thou bring it in thy beak to the hollow of the tree, and
+drop it in there.&quot; Shortly after the Prince came, as was his wont, and
+taking off his dress and ornaments, the Hen-Crow did as had been
+determined; and while the servants of the Prince were searching in the
+hollow, there they found the Black Snake, which they at once dispatched.</p>
+
+<p>'Said I not well,' continued Damanaka, 'that stratagem excels force?'</p>
+
+<p>'It was well said,' replied Karataka; 'go! and may thy path be
+prosperous!</p>
+
+<p>'With that Damanaka repaired to the King, and having done homage, thus
+addressed him:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Your Majesty, there is a dreadful thing on my mind, and I am come to
+disclose it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>'Speak!' said the King, with much graciousness.</p>
+
+<p>'Your Majesty,' said the Jackal, 'this Bull has been detected of
+treason. To my face he has spoken contemptuously of the three
+prerogatives of the throne,<a name="FNanchor14"></a><a href="#Footnote_14"><sup>[14]</sup></a> unto which he aspires.'</p>
+
+<p>&quot;At these words King Tawny-hide stood aghast.</p>
+
+<p>'Your Majesty,' continued Damanaka, 'has placed him above us all in the
+Court. Sire! he must be displaced!&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Teeth grown loose, and wicked-hearted ministers, and poison-trees,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Pluck them by the roots together; 'Tis the thing that giveth ease,'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'Good Jackal,' said the King, after some silence; 'this is indeed
+dreadful; but my regard for the Bull is very great, and it is said&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Long-tried friends are friends to cleave to&mdash;never leave thou these i' the lurch:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What man shuns the fire as sinful for that once it burned a church?'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'That is written of discarding old servants, may it please your
+Majesty,' observed Damanaka; 'and this Bull is quite a stranger,'</p>
+
+<p>'Wondrous strange!' replied the Lion; 'when I have advanced and
+protected him that he should plot against me!'</p>
+
+<p>'Your Majesty,' said the Jackal, 'knows what has been written&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Raise an evil soul to honor, and his evil bents remain;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bind a cur's tail ne'er so straightly, yet it curleth up again.'</span><br />
+
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'How, in sooth, should Trust and Honor change the evil nature's root?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Though one watered them with nectar, poison-trees bear deadly fruit.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>I have now at least warned your Majesty: if evil comes, the fault is not
+mine,'</p>
+
+<p>'It will not do to condemn the Bull without inquiry,' mused the King;
+then he said aloud, 'shall we admonish him, think you, Damanaka?'</p>
+
+<p>'No, no, Sire!' exclaimed the Jackal, eagerly; 'that would spoil all our
+precautions&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Safe within the husk of silence guard the seed of counsel so</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That it break not&mdash;being broken, then the seedling will not grow,'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>What is to be done must be done with despatch. After censuring his
+treason, would your Majesty still trust the traitor?&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Whoso unto ancient fondness takes again a faithless friend,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like she-mules that die conceiving, in his folly finds his end,'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'But wherein can the Bull injure me?' asked Tawny-hide; 'tell me that!'</p>
+
+<p>'Sire,' replied the Jackal, how can I tell it?&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Ask who his friends are, ere you scorn your foe;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Wagtail foiled the sea, that did not so,'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'How could that be?' demanded King Tawny-hide.</p>
+
+<p>'The Jackal related:&mdash;</p>
+<br />
+
+<a name='The_Story_of_the_Wagtail_and_the_Sea'></a><h4><b>The Story of the Wagtail and the Sea</b></h4>
+
+<p>&quot;On the shore of the Southern Sea there dwelt a pair of Wagtails. The
+Hen-bird was about to lay, and thus addressed her mate:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'Husband, we must look about for a fit place to lay my eggs.'</p>
+
+<p>'My dear,' replied the Cock-bird, 'will not this spot do?'</p>
+
+<p>'This spot!' exclaimed the Hen; 'why, the tide overflows it.'</p>
+
+<p>'Good dame,' said the Cock, 'am I so pitiful a fellow that the Sea will
+venture to wash the eggs out of my nest?'</p>
+
+<p>'You are my very good Lord,' replied the Hen, with a laugh; 'but still
+there is a great difference between you and the Sea.'</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Afterwards, however, at the desire of her mate, she consented to lay
+her eggs on the sea-beach. Now the Ocean had overheard all this, and,
+bent upon displaying its strength, it rose and washed away the nest and
+eggs. Overwhelmed with grief, the Hen-bird flew to her mate, and
+cried:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'Husband, the terrible disaster has occurred! My eggs arc gone!'</p>
+
+<p>'Be of good heart! my Life,' answered he.</p>
+
+<p>&quot;And therewith he called a meeting of fowls, and went with them into the
+presence of Gurud, the Lord of the birds. When the Master of the Mighty
+Wing had listened to their complaint, he conveyed it to the knowledge of
+the God Narayen, who keeps, and kills, and makes alive the world. The
+almighty mandate given, Gurud bound it upon his forehead, and bore it to
+the Ocean, which, so soon as it heard the will of Narayen, at once gave
+back the eggs.</p>
+
+<p>'How, indeed,' concluded Damanaka, 'should I judge of the Bull's power,
+not knowing who supports him?'</p>
+
+<p>'By what signs, then,' asked the King, 'may I conclude him a traitor?'</p>
+
+<p>'If he comes into the presence with his horns lowered for goring, as one
+that expects the fight. That,' replied the Jackal, 'will convince your
+Majesty,'</p>
+
+<p>'Thereupon Damanaka the Jackal withdrew, and betook himself towards the
+Bull, upon perceiving whom he approached slowly, with all the air of one
+greatly distressed.</p>
+
+<p>'Good master Jackal,' said Lusty-life, 'what goes amiss with thee?'</p>
+
+<p>'All goes amiss with such as serve wicked masters,' replied the Jackal.</p>
+
+<p>'But what ails thee?' asked the Bull.</p>
+
+<p>'Alas!' answered the Jackal, 'what can I say in such a strait!&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Even as one who grasps a serpent, drowning in the bitter sea,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Death to hold and death to loosen&mdash;such is life's perplexity.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'And therewithal the Jackal heaved a deep sigh, and squatted down.</p>
+
+<p>'But, good friend,' said the Bull, 'at least tell me what is in thy
+mind.'</p>
+
+<p>'Bull,' began Damanaka, 'it is a King's secret, and should not be
+spoken; but thou didst come here upon my safeguard, and as I hope for
+the life to come, I will tell thee of what touches thee so nearly.
+Listen!&mdash;the heart of the King is turned against thee! he hath sworn
+secretly that he will kill thee and feast upon thy flesh.'</p>
+
+<p>'Then Lusty-life the Bull was sorely troubled, and he fell a-musing
+thus&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Woman's love rewards the worthless&mdash;kings of knaves exalters be;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wealth attends the selfish niggard, and the cloud rains on the sea.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'Can this be the Jackal's doing?' he reflected. Going with honest folk
+will not make one honest&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Many a knave wins fair opinions standing in fair company,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As the sooty soorma pleases, lighted by a brilliant eye.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Then he said aloud, 'wherein can I have angered the King? Do kings hate
+without cause? I can tell nothing, except that there is no happiness
+which abides long&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Where the azure lotus<a name="FNanchor15"></a><a href="#Footnote_15"><sup>[15]</sup></a> blossoms, there the alligators hide;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In the sandal-tree are serpents. Pain and pleasure live allied.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>I thought his Majesty noble as the sandal-tree; but that, indeed, is not
+wholly noble&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Rich the sandal&mdash;yet no part is but a vile thing habits there;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Snake and wasp haunt root and blossom; on the boughs sit ape and bear.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'Bull,' said Damanaka, 'I knew the King of old for one whose tongue was
+honey and whose heart was poison.'</p>
+
+<p>'But how very hard!' said the Bull, 'that he, being a lion, should
+attack me, an innocent eater of grass!'</p>
+
+<p>'It is very hard!' said the Jackal.</p>
+
+<p>'Who can have set him against me?' asked the Bull.</p>
+
+<p>'Being so, it cannot be bettered,' replied the Jackal, 'whoever did it&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'As a bracelet of crystal, once broke, is not mended;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So the favor of princes, once altered, is ended.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'Yes,' said the Bull, 'and a king incensed is terrible&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Wrath of kings, and rage of lightning&mdash;both be very full of dread;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But one falls on one man only&mdash;one strikes many victims dead,'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Still, I can but die&mdash;and I will die fighting! When death is certain,
+and no hope left but in battle, that is the time for war,'</p>
+
+<p>'It is so,' said the Jackal.</p>
+
+<p>'Having weighed all this, Lusty-life inquired of the Jackal by what
+signs he might conclude the King's hostile intentions.</p>
+
+<p>'If he glowers upon thee,' answered Damanaka, 'and awaits thee with ears
+pricked, tail stiffened, paw upraised, and muzzle agape, then thou
+mayest get thee to thy weapons like a Bull of spirit, for</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'All men scorn the soulless coward who his manhood doth forget:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On a lifeless heap of ashes fearlessly the foot is set,'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'Then Damanaka the Jackal returned to the Lion, and said to him:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'If it please your Majesty, the traitor is now coming; let your Majesty
+be on your guard, with ears pricked and paw upraised.'</p>
+
+<p>'The Bull meanwhile approached, and observing the hostile attitude of
+King Tawny-hide, he also lowered his horns, and prepared for the combat.
+A terrible battle ensued, and at the last King Tawny-hide slew
+Lusty-life the Bull. Now when the Bull was dead, the Lion was very
+sorrowful, and as he sat on his throne lamenting, he said&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'I repent me of this deed!&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'As when an Elephant's life-blood is spilt,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Another hath the spoils&mdash;mine is the guilt.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'Sire,' replied the Jackal, 'a King over-merciful is like a Brahman
+that eats all things equally. May all your Majesty's enemies perish as
+did this Bull.'</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Thus endeth,&quot; said the Sage Vishnu-Sarman, &quot;the 'Parting of Friends.'&quot;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;We are gratified exceedingly thereby,&quot; replied the Sons of the King.</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Let me then close it thus,&quot; said their Preceptor&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 3em;'>'So be friendship never parted,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>But among the evil-hearted;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Time's sure step drag, soon or later,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>To his judgment, such a Traitor;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Lady Lukshmi, of her grace,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Grant good fortune to this place;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And you, Royal boys! and boys of times to be</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In this fair fable-garden wander free.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<hr style='width: 65%;' />
+<a name='WAR'></a><h3>WAR</h3>
+<br />
+
+<p>When the next day of instruction was come, the King's sons spake to the
+Sage, Vishnu-Sarman.</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Master,&quot; said they, &quot;we are Princes, and the sons of Princes, and we
+earnestly desire to hear thee discourse upon War.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;I am to speak on what shall please you,&quot; replied Vishnu-Sarman. &quot;Hear
+now, therefore, of 'War,' whose opening is thus:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Between the peoples of Peacock and Swan<a name="FNanchor16"></a><a href="#Footnote_16"><sup>[16]</sup></a></span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>War raged; and evenly the contest ran,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Until the Swans to trust the Crows began.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'And how was all that?' asked the sons of the Rajah. Vishnu-Sarman
+proceeded to relate&mdash;</p>
+<br />
+
+<a name='The_Battle_of_the_Swans_and_Peacocks'></a><h4><b>The Battle of the Swans and Peacocks</b></h4>
+
+<p>&quot;In the Isle of Camphor there is a lake called 'Lotus-water,' and
+therein a Swan-Royal, named 'Silver-sides,' had his residence. The birds
+of the marsh and the mere had elected him King, in full council of all
+the fowls&mdash;for a people with no ruler is like a ship that is without a
+helmsman. One day King Silver-sides, with his courtiers, was quietly
+reposing on a couch of well-spread lotus-blossoms, when a Crane, named
+'Long-bill,' who had just arrived from foreign parts, entered the
+presence with an obeisance, and sat down.</p>
+
+<p>'What news from abroad, Long-bill?' asked his Majesty.</p>
+
+<p>'Great news, may it please you,' answered the Crane, 'and therefore have
+I hastened hither. Will your Majesty hear me?'</p>
+
+<p>'Speak!' said King Silver-sides.</p>
+
+<p>'You must know, my Liege,' began the Crane, 'that over all the birds of
+the Vindhya mountains in Jambudwipa a Peacock is King, and his name is
+'Jewel-plume,' I was looking for food about a certain burnt jungle
+there, when some of his retainers discovered me, and asked my name and
+country. 'I am a vassal of King Silver-sides, Lord of the Island of
+Camphor,' I replied, 'and I am travelling in foreign lands for my
+pleasure.' Upon that the birds asked me which country, my own or theirs,
+and which King, appeared to me superior. 'How can you ask?' I replied;
+'the island of Camphor is, as it were, Heaven itself, and its King a
+heaven-born ruler. To dwellers in a barren land like yours how can I
+describe them? Come for yourselves, and see the country where I live.'
+Thereupon, your Majesty, the birds were exceedingly offended, as one
+might expect&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Simple milk, when serpents drink it, straightway into venom turns;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And a fool who heareth counsel all the wisdom of it spurns.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>For, indeed, no reflecting person wastes time in admonishing
+blockheads&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'The birds that took the apes to teaching,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lost eggs and nests in pay for preaching.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'How did that befall?' asked the King.</p>
+
+<p>The Crane related:&mdash;</p>
+<br />
+
+<a name='The_Story_of_the_Weaver_Birds_and_the_Monkeys'></a><h4><b>The Story of the Weaver-Birds and the Monkeys</b></h4>
+
+<p>&quot;In a nullah that leads down to the Nerbudda river there stood a large
+silk-cotton tree, where a colony of weaver-birds had built their hanging
+nests, and lived snugly in them, whatever the weather. It was in the
+rainy season, when the heavens are overlaid with clouds like
+indigo-sheets, and a tremendous storm of water was falling. The birds
+looked out from their nests, and saw some monkeys, shivering and starved
+with the cold, standing under a tree. 'Twit! twit! you Monkeys,' they
+began to chirrup. 'Listen to us!&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'With beaks we built these nests, of fibres scattered;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>You that have hands and feet, build, or be spattered.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>On hearing that the Monkeys were by no means pleased. 'Ho! ho!' said
+they, 'the Birds in their snug nests are jeering at us; wait till the
+rain is over,' Accordingly, so soon as the weather mended, the Monkeys
+climbed into the tree, and broke all the birds' eggs and demolished
+every nest. I ought to have known better,' concluded the Crane, 'than to
+have wasted my suggestions on King Jewel-plume's creatures.'</p>
+
+<p>'But what did they say?' asked Silver-sides.</p>
+
+<p>'They said, Rajah,' answered the Crane, 'who made that Swan of thine a
+King?'</p>
+
+<p>'And what was your reply?' asked Silver-sides.</p>
+
+<p>'I demanded,' replied the Crane, 'who made a King of that Peacock of
+theirs. Thereupon they were ready to kill me for rage; but I displayed
+my very best valor. Is it not written&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'A modest manner fits a maid,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And Patience is a man's adorning;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But brides may kiss, nor do amiss,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And men may draw, at scathe and scorning.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'Yet a man should measure his own strength first,' said the Rajah,
+smiling; 'how did you fare against King Jewel-plume's fellows?'</p>
+
+<p>'Very scurvily,' replied Long-bill. &quot;Thou rascal Crane,&quot; they cried,
+&quot;dost thou feed on his soil, and revile our Sovereign? That is past
+bearing!&quot; And thereat they all pecked at me. Then they began again:
+&quot;Thou thick-skulled Crane! that King of thine is a goose&mdash;a web-footed
+lord of littleness&mdash;and thou art but a frog in a well to bid us serve
+him&mdash;- him forsooth!&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Serving narrow-minded masters dwarfs high natures to their size:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Seen before a convex mirror, elephants do show as mice.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Bad kings are only strong enough to spoil good vassals&mdash;as a fiction
+once was mightier than a herd of elephants. You know it, don't you?&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Mighty may prove things insignificant:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A tale of moonshine turned an elephant.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'No! how was that?' I asked.</p>
+
+<p>The birds related&mdash;</p>
+<br />
+
+<a name='The_Story_of_the_Old_Hare_and_the_Elephants'></a><h4><b>The Story of the Old Hare and the Elephants</b></h4>
+
+<p>&quot;Once on a time, very little rain had fallen in the due season; and the
+Elephants being oppressed with thirst, thus accosted their
+leader:&mdash;'Master, how are we to live? The small creatures find something
+to wash in, but we cannot, and we are half dead in consequence; whither
+shall we go then, and what shall we do?' Upon that the King of the
+Elephants led them away a little space; and showed them a beautiful pool
+of crystal water, where they took their ease. Now it chanced that a
+company of Hares resided on the banks of the pool, and the going and
+coming of the elephants trampled many of them to death, till one of
+their number named Hard-head grumbled out, 'This troop will be coming
+here to water every day, and every one of our family will be crushed.'
+'Do not disquiet yourself,' said an old buck named Good-speed, 'I will
+contrive to avert it,' and so saying, he set off, bethinking himself on
+his way how he should approach and accost a herd of elephants; for,</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Elephants destroy by touching, snakes with point of tooth beguile;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Kings by favor kill, and traitors murder with a fatal smile.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'I will get on the top of a hill,' he thought, 'and address the
+Elephants thence.'</p>
+
+<p>&quot;This being done, and the Lord of the herd perceiving him, it was asked
+of the Hare, 'Who art thou? and whence comest thou?'</p>
+
+<p>'I am an ambassador from his Godship the Moon,' replied Good-speed.</p>
+
+<p>'State your business,' said the Elephant-king.</p>
+
+<p>'Sire,' began the Hare, 'an ambassador speaks the truth safely by
+charter of his name. Thus saith the Moon, then: &quot;These hares were the
+guardians of my pool, and thine elephants in coming thither have scared
+them away. This is not well. Am I not Sasanka, whose banner bears a
+hare, and are not these hares my votaries?&quot;'</p>
+
+<p>'Please your worship,' said the Elephant-king with much trepidation, 'we
+knew nothing of this; we will go there no more.'</p>
+
+<p>'It were well,' said the sham ambassador, 'that you first made your
+apologies to the Divinity, who is quaking with rage in his pool, and
+then went about your business.'</p>
+
+<p>'We will do so,' replied the Elephant with meekness; and being led by
+night to the pool, in the ripples of which the image of the Moon was
+quivering, the herd made their prostrations; the Hare explaining to the
+Moon that their fault was done in ignorance, and thereupon they got
+their dismissal.'</p>
+
+<p>'Nay,' I said, 'my Sovereign is no fiction, but a great King and a
+noble, and one that might govern the Three Worlds, much more a kingdom,'</p>
+
+<p>'Thou shalt talk thy treason in the presence,' they cried; and therewith
+I was dragged before King Jewel-plume.</p>
+
+<p>'Who is this?' asked the Rajah.</p>
+
+<p>'He is a servant of King Silver-sides, of the Island of Camphor,' they
+replied; 'and he slights your Majesty, on your Majesty's own land.'</p>
+
+<p>'Sirrah Crane!' said the Prime Minister, a Vulture, 'who is chief
+officer in that court?'</p>
+
+<p>'A Brahmany Goose,' I answered, 'named &quot;Know-all&quot;; and he does know
+every possible science.'</p>
+
+<p>'Sire,' broke in a Parrot, 'this Camphor-isle and the rest are poor
+places, and belong to Jambudwipa. Your Majesty has but to plant the
+royal foot upon them.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh! of course,' said the King.</p>
+
+<p>'Nay,' said I, 'if talking makes your Majesty King of Camphor-island, my
+Liege may be lord of Jambudwipa by a better title.'</p>
+
+<p>'And that?' said the Parrot.</p>
+
+<p>'Is fighting!' I responded.</p>
+
+<p>'Good!' said the King, with a smile; 'bid your people prepare for war.'</p>
+
+<p>'Not so,' I replied; 'but send your own ambassador.'</p>
+
+<p>'Who will bear the message?' asked the Rajah. 'He should be loyal,
+dexterous, and bold.'</p>
+
+<p>'And virtuous,' said the Vulture, 'and therefore a Brahman:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Better Virtue marked a herald than that noble blood should deck;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shiva reigns forever Shiva while the sea-wave stains his neck.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'Then let the Parrot be appointed,' said the Rajah.</p>
+
+<p>'I am your Majesty's humble servant,' replied the Parrot; 'but this
+Crane is a bad character, and with the bad I never like to travel. The
+ten-headed Ravana carried off the wife of Ramchundra! It does not do,</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'With evil people neither stay nor go;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Heron died for being with the Crow.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'How did that befall?' asked the King. The Parrot related:&mdash;</p>
+<br />
+
+<a name='The_Story_of_the_Heron_and_the_Crow'></a><h4><b>The Story of the Heron and the Crow</b></h4>
+
+<p>'The high-road to Oogein is a very unshaded and sultry one; but there
+stands upon it one large Peepul-tree, and therein a Crow and a Heron had
+their residence together. It was in the hot weather that a tired
+traveller passed that way, and, for the sake of the shade, he laid his
+bow and arrows down, and dropped asleep under the tree. Before long the
+shadow of the tree shifted, and left his face exposed to the glare;
+which the Heron perceiving, like the kindly bird he was, perched on the
+Peepul-tree, and spread his wings out so as to cast a shadow on the
+traveller's face. There the poor fellow, weary with his travel,
+continued to sleep soundly, and snored away comfortably with open mouth.
+The sight of his enjoyment was too much for the malevolent Crow, who,
+perching over him, dropped an unwelcome morsel into the sleeper's mouth,
+and straightway flew off. The traveller, starting from his slumber,
+looked about, and, seeing no bird but the Heron, he fitted an arrow and
+shot him dead. No!' concluded the Parrot, 'I like the society of honest
+folk.'</p>
+
+<p>'But why these words, my brother?' I said; 'his Majesty's herald is to
+me even as his Majesty.'</p>
+
+<p>'Very fine!' replied the Parrot; 'but&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Kindly courtesies that issue from a smiling villain's mouth</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Serve to startle, like a flower blossoming in time of drouth.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Needs must that thou art a bad man; for by thy talk war will have
+arisen, which a little conciliation had averted:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Conciliation!&mdash;weapon of the wise!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wheedled therewith, by woman's quick device,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Wheelwright let his ears betray his eyes.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'How came that about?' asked the King. The Parrot related:&mdash;</p>
+<br />
+
+<a name='The_Story_of_the_Appeased_Wheelwright'></a><h4><b>The Story of the Appeased Wheelwright</b></h4>
+
+<p>&quot;There was a Wheelwright in Shri-nuggur, whose name was 'Heavy-head,' He
+had good reason to suspect the infidelity of his wife, but he had no
+absolute proof of it. One day he gave out that he should go to a
+neighboring town, and he started accordingly; but he went a very little
+way, and then returning, hid himself in his wife's chamber. She being
+quite satisfied that he was really gone away, invited her gallant to
+pass the evening with her, and began to spend it with him in
+unrestrained freedom. Presently, by chance, she detected the presence of
+her husband, and her manner instantly changed.</p>
+
+<p>'Life of my soul! what ails you?' said her lover; 'you are quite dull
+to-night.'</p>
+
+<p>'I am dull,' she replied,' because the lord of my life is gone. Without
+my husband the town is a wilderness. Who knows what may befall him, and
+whether he will have a nice supper?'</p>
+
+<p>'Trouble thyself no more about the quarrelsome dullard,' said her
+gallant.</p>
+
+<p>'Dullard, quotha!' exclaimed the wife. 'What matter what he is, since he
+is my all? Knowest thou not&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Of the wife the lord is jewel, though no gems upon her beam;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lacking him, she lacks adornment, howsoe'er her jewels gleam?'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Thou, and the like of thee, may serve a whim, as we chew a betel-leaf
+and trifle with a flower; but my husband is my master, and can do with
+me as he will. My life is wrapped up in him&mdash;and when he dies, alas! I
+will certainly die too. Is it not plainly said&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Hairs three-crore, and half-a-crore hairs, on a man so many grow&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And so many years to Swerga shall the true wife surely go?'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>And better still is promised; as herein&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'When the faithful wife,<a name="FNanchor17"></a><a href="#Footnote_17"><sup>[17]</sup></a> embracing tenderly her husband dead,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Mounts the blazing pile beside him, as it were the bridal-bed;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Though his sins were twenty thousand, twenty thousand times o'er-told,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She shall bring his soul to splendor, for her love so large and bold.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>All this the Wheelwright heard. 'What a lucky fellow I am,' he thought,
+'to have a wife so virtuous,' and rushing from his place of concealment,
+he exclaimed in ecstasy to his wife's gallant, 'Sir I saw you ever truer
+wife than mine?'</p>
+
+<p>'When the story was concluded,' said Long-bill, 'the King, with a
+gracious gift of food, sent me off before the Parrot; but he is coming
+after me, and it is now for your Majesty to determine as it shall please
+you.'</p>
+
+<p>'My Liege,' observed the Brahmany-goose with a sneer, 'the Crane has
+done the King's business in foreign parts to the best of his power,
+which is that of a fool.'</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Let the past pass,&quot; replied the King, &quot;and take thought for the
+present.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Be it in secret, then, your Majesty,&quot; said the Brahmany-goose&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Counsel unto six ears spoken, unto all is notified:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When a King holds consultation, let it be with one beside,'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Thereupon all withdrew, but the Rajah and the Minister.</p>
+
+<p>'What think you?' said Silver-sides.</p>
+
+<p>'That the Crane has been employed to bring this about,' replied the
+other.</p>
+
+<p>'What shall we do?' asked the King.</p>
+
+<p>'Despatch two spies&mdash;the first to inform and send back the other, and
+make us know the enemy's strength or weakness. They must be such as can
+travel by land and water, so the Crane will serve for one, and we will
+keep his family in pledge at the King's gate. The other must be a very
+reserved character; as it is said&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Sick men are for skilful leeches&mdash;prodigals for prisoning&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fools for teachers&mdash;and the man who keeps a secret, for a King,'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'I know such a one,' said his Majesty, after a pause.</p>
+
+<p>'It is half the victory,' responded the Minister.</p>
+
+<p>At this juncture a chamberlain entered with a profound obeisance, and
+announced the arrival from Jambudwipa of the Parrot.</p>
+
+<p>'Let him be shown to a reception-room,' commanded the Goose, in reply to
+a look from the King. 'He shall presently have audience.'</p>
+
+<p>'War is pronounced, then,' said the King, as the attendant withdrew.</p>
+
+<p>'It is offered, my Liege; but must not be rashly accepted,' replied the
+other&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'With gift, craft, promise, cause thy foe to yield;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When these have failed thee, challenge him a-field.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>To gain time for expedients is the first point. Expedients are good for
+great and little matters equally, like</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'The subtle wash of waves, that smoothly pass,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But lay the tree as lowly as the grass.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Let his Excellency the Parrot, then, be cajoled and detained here, while
+we place our fort in condition to be useful. Is it not said&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Ten true bowmen on a rampart fifty's onset may sustain;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fortalices keep a country more than armies in the plain?'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>And your Majesty,' continued the Goose, 'will recall the points of a
+good fortress&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Build it strong, and build it spacious, with an entry and retreat;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Store it well with wood and water, fill its garners full with wheat.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'Whom, then, shall we entrust with this work?' asked King Silver-sides.</p>
+
+<p>'The Paddy-bird<a name="FNanchor18"></a><a href="#Footnote_18"><sup>[18]</sup></a> is a good bird, and a skilful,' replied his
+Minister.</p>
+
+<p>'Let him be summoned!' said the King. And upon the entrance of the
+Paddy-bird, the superintendence of the fortress was committed to him,
+and accepted with a low prostration.</p>
+
+<p>'As to the fort, Sire!' remarked the Paddy-bird, 'it exists already in
+yonder large pool; the thing is to store the island in the middle of it
+with provisions&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Gems will no man's life sustain;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Best of gold is golden grain.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'Good!' said King Silver-sides; 'let it be looked to.' Thereupon, as the
+Paddy-bird was retiring, the Usher entered again, and making
+prostration, said: 'May it please your Majesty, the King of all the
+Crows, Night-cloud by name, has just arrived from Singhala-dwipa, and
+desires to lay his homage at your Majesty's feet.'</p>
+
+<p>'He is a wise bird, and a far-travelled,' said the King; 'I think we
+must give him audience.'</p>
+
+<p>Nevertheless, Sire,' interrupted the Goose, 'we must not forget that he
+is a land-bird, and therefore not to be received as a water-fowl. Your
+royal memory doubtless retains the story of</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'The Jackal's fate, who being colored blue,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Leaving his party, left his own life too.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'No! How was that?' asked King Silver-sides. The Goose related&mdash;</p>
+<br />
+
+<a name='The_Story_of_the_Dyed_Jackal'></a><h4><b>The Story of the Dyed Jackal</b></h4>
+
+<p>&quot;A Jackal once on a time, as he was prowling about the suburbs of a
+town, slipped into an indigo-tank; and not being able to get out he laid
+himself down so as to be taken for dead. The dyer presently coming and
+finding what seemed a dead Jackal, carried him into the jungle and then
+flung him away. Left to himself, the Jackal found his natural color
+changed to a splendid blue. 'Really,' he reflected, 'I am now of a most
+magnificent tint; why should I not make it conduce to my elevation?'
+With this view, he assembled the other Jackals, and thus harangued
+them:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'Good people, the Goddess of the Wood, with her own divine hand, and
+with every magical herb of the forest, has anointed me King. Behold the
+complexion of royalty!&mdash;and henceforward transact nothing without my
+imperial permission.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;The Jackals, overcome by so distinguished a color, could do nothing but
+prostrate themselves and promise obedience. His reign, thus begun,
+extended in time to the lions and tigers; and with these high-born
+attendants he allowed himself to despise the Jackals, keeping his own
+kindred at a distance, as though ashamed of them. The Jackals were
+indignant, but an old beast of their number thus consoled them:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Leave the impudent fellow to me. I will contrive his ruin. These tigers
+and the rest think him a King, because he is colored blue; we must show
+them his true colors. Do this, now!&mdash;in the evening-time come close
+about him, and set up a great yell together&mdash;he is sure to join in, as
+he used to do&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Hard it is to conquer nature: if a dog were made a King,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Mid the coronation trumpets, he would gnaw his sandal-string.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>And when he yells the Tigers will know him for a Jackal and fall upon
+him.'</p>
+
+<p>'The thing befell exactly so, and the Jackal,' concluded the Minister,
+'met the fate of one who leaves his proper party.'</p>
+
+<p>'Still,' said the King, 'the Crow has come a long way, and we might see
+him, I think.'</p>
+
+<p>'Admit the Parrot first, Sire,' said the Goose; 'the fort has been put
+in order and the spy despatched.'</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Thereupon a Court was called, and the Parrot introduced, followed by
+Night-cloud, the Crow. A seat was offered to the parrot, who took it,
+and, with his beak in the air, thus delivered his mission:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'King Silver-sides!&mdash;My master, the King Jewel-plume, Lord of Lords,
+bids thee, if life and lands be dear to thee, to come and make homage at
+his august feet; and failing this to get thee gone from Camphor-island.'</p>
+
+<p>'S'death!' exclaimed the Rajah, 'is there none that will silence this
+traitor?'</p>
+
+<p>'Give the sign, your Majesty,' said the Crow, starting up, and I will
+despatch this audacious bird.'</p>
+
+<p>'Sir,' said the Goose, 'be calm! and Sire, deign to listen&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Tis no Council where no Sage is&mdash;'tis no Sage that fears not Law;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Tis no Law which Truth confirms not&mdash;'tis no Truth which Fear can awe.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>An ambassador must speak unthreatened&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Though base be the Herald, nor hinder nor let,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>For the mouth of a king is he;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The sword may be whet, and the battle set,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>But the word of his message is free.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Thereat the Rajah and Night-cloud resumed their composure; and the
+Parrot took his departure, escorted by the Minister, and presented with
+complimentary gifts of gold and jewels. On reaching the palace of
+Jewel-plume, the King demanded his tidings, and inquired of the country
+he had visited.</p>
+
+<p>'War must be prepared, may it please you,' said the Parrot: 'the
+country is a country of Paradise.'</p>
+
+<p>'Prepare for war, then!' said the King.</p>
+
+<p>'We must not enter on it in the face of destiny,' interposed the
+Vulture-Minister, whose title was 'Far-sight.'</p>
+
+<p>'Let the Astrologer then discover a favorable conjuncture for the
+expedition, and let my forces be reviewed meantime,' said the King.</p>
+
+<p>'We must not march without great circumspection,' observed Far-sight.</p>
+
+<p>'Minister!' exclaimed the King, 'you chafe me. Say, however, with what
+force we should set out.'</p>
+
+<p>'It should be well selected, rather than unwieldy,' replied the
+Vulture&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Better few and chosen fighters than of shaven crowns a host,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For in headlong flight confounded, with the base the brave are lost.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>And its commanders must be judiciously appointed; for it is said&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Ever absent, harsh, unjustly portioning the captured prey&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>These, and cold or laggard leaders make a host to melt away.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'Ah!' interrupted the Rajah, 'what need of so much talk? We will go,
+and, if V&aacute;chaspati please, we will conquer.'</p>
+
+<p>Shortly afterwards the Spy returned to Camphor-island. 'King
+Silver-sides,' he cried, 'the Rajah, Jewel-plume, is on his way hither,
+and has reached the Ghauts. Let the fort be manned, for that Vulture is
+a great minister; and I have learned, too, that there is one among us
+who is in his pay.'</p>
+
+<p>'King!' said the Goose, 'that must be the Crow.'</p>
+
+<p>'But whence, then, did he show such willingness to punish the Parrot?'
+objected his Majesty. 'Besides, war was declared long after the Crow
+came to Court.'</p>
+
+<p>'I misdoubt him,' said the Minister, 'because he is a stranger.'</p>
+
+<p>'But strangers surely may be well-disposed,' replied the King. 'How say
+the books?&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Kind is kin, howe'er a stranger&mdash;kin unkind is stranger shown;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sores hurt, though the body breeds them&mdash;drugs relieve, though desert-grown.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Have you never heard of King Sudraka and the unknown Servant, who gave
+his son's life for the King?</p>
+
+<p>'Never,' answered the Goose.</p>
+<br />
+
+<a name='The_Story_of_the_Faithful_Rajpoot'></a><h4><b>The Story of the Faithful Rajpoot</b></h4>
+
+<p>&quot;I will tell you the tale,&quot; said the King, &quot;as I heard it from
+'Lilyflower,' daughter of the Flamingo 'White-flag,' of whom I was once
+very fond:&mdash;A soldier presented himself one morning at King Sudraka's
+gate, and bade the porter procure an audience for 'Vira-vara, a
+Rajpoot,'<a name="FNanchor19"></a><a href="#Footnote_19"><sup>[19]</sup></a> who sought employment. Being admitted to the presence, he
+thus addressed the King:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'If your Highness needs an attendant, behold one!'</p>
+
+<p>'What pay do you ask?' inquired the King.</p>
+
+<p>'Five hundred pieces of gold a day,' said Vira-vara.</p>
+
+<p>'And your accoutrements?' asked the King.</p>
+
+<p>'Are these two arms, and this sabre, which serve for a third,' said
+Vira-vara, rolling up his sleeve.</p>
+
+<p>'I cannot entertain you,' rejoined his Majesty; and thereupon the
+Rajpoot made salaam, and withdrew. Then said the Ministers, 'If it
+please your Majesty, the stipend is excessive, but give him pay for four
+days, and see wherein he may deserve it.' Accordingly, the Rajpoot was
+recalled, and received wages for four days, with the complimentary
+betel.&mdash;Ah! the rare betel! Truly say the wise of it&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Betel-nut is bitter, hot, sweet, spicy, binding, alkaline&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A demulcent&mdash;an astringent&mdash;foe to evils intestine;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Giving to the breath a fragrance&mdash;to the lips a crimson red;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A detergent, and a kindler of Love's flame that lieth dead.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Praise the gods for the good Betel!&mdash;these be thirteen virtues given,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hard to meet in one thing blended, even in their happy heaven.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'Now the King narrowly watched the spending of Vira-vara's pay, and
+discovered that he bestowed half in the service of the Gods and the
+support of Brahmans, a fourth part in relieving the poor, and reserved a
+fourth for his sustenance and recreation. This daily division made, he
+would take his stand with his sabre at the gate of the palace; retiring
+only upon receiving the royal permission.</p>
+
+<p>'It was on the fourteenth night of the dark half of the month that King
+Sudraka heard below a sound of passionate sobbing. 'Ho! there,' he
+cried, 'who waits at the gate?'</p>
+
+<p>'I,' replied Vira-vara, 'may it please you.'</p>
+
+<p>'Go and learn what means this weeping,' said the King.</p>
+
+<p>'I go, your Majesty, answered the Rajpoot, and therewith departed.</p>
+
+<p>'No sooner was he gone than the King repented him of sending one man
+alone into a night so dark that a bodkin might pierce a hole in it, and
+girding on his scimitar, he followed his guard beyond the city gates.
+When Vira-vara had gone thus far he encountered a beautiful and
+splendidly dressed lady who was weeping bitterly; and accosting her, he
+requested to know her name, and why she thus lamented.</p>
+
+<p>'I am the Fortune of the King Sudraka,' answered she; 'a long while I
+have lived happily in the shadow of his arm; but on the third day he
+will die, and I must depart, and therefore lament I.'</p>
+
+<p>'Can nothing serve, Divine Lady, to prolong thy stay?' asked the
+Rajpoot.</p>
+
+<p>'It might be,' replied the Spirit, 'if thou shouldst cut off the head of
+thy first-born Shaktidhar, that hath on his body the thirty-two
+auspicious marks of greatness. Were his head offered to the all-helpful
+Durga, the Rajah should live a hundred years, and I might tarry beside
+him.'</p>
+
+<p>'So speaking, she disappeared, and Vira-vara retraced his steps to his
+own house and awoke his wife and son. They arose, and listened with
+attention until Vira-vara had repeated all the words of the vision. When
+he had finished, Shaktidhar exclaimed, 'I am thrice happy to be able to
+save the state of the King. Kill me, my father, and linger not; to give
+my life in such a cause is good indeed,' 'Yes,' said the Mother, 'it is
+good, and worthy of our blood; how else should we deserve the King's
+pay?' Being thus agreed, they repaired together at once to the temple of
+the Goddess Durga, and having paid their devotions and entreated the
+favor of the deity on behalf of the King, Vira-vara struck off his son's
+head, and laid it as an offering upon the shrine. That done, Vira-vara
+said, 'My service to the King is accomplished, and life without my boy
+is but a burden,' and therewith he plunged his sword in his own breast
+and fell dead. Overpowered with grief for her husband and child, the
+mother also withdrew the twice-blooded weapon, and slew herself with it
+on the bodies of Vira-vara and Shaktidhar.</p>
+
+<p>'All this was heard and seen by King Sudraka, and he stood aghast at the
+sad sight. 'Woe is me!' he exclaimed&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Kings may come, and Kings may go;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What was I, to bring these low?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Souls so noble, slain for me,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Were not, and will never be!'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>What reck I of my realm, having lost these?' and thereat he drew his
+scimitar to take his own life also. At that moment there appeared to him
+the Goddess, who is Mistress of all men's fortunes. 'Son,' said she,
+staying his lifted hand, 'forbear thy rash purpose, and bethink thee of
+thy kingdom.'</p>
+
+<p>&quot;The Rajah fell prostrate before her, and cried&mdash;'O Goddess! I am done
+with life and wealth and kingdom! If thou hast compassion on me, let my
+death restore these faithful ones to life; anywise I follow the path
+they have marked,' 'Son,' replied the Goddess, 'thine affection is
+pleasing to me: be it as thou wilt! The Rajpoot and his house shall be
+rendered alive to thee.' Then the King departed, and presently saw
+Vira-vara return, and take up again his station as before at the
+palace-gate.</p>
+
+<p>'Ho! there, Vira-vara!' cried the King, 'what meant the weeping?'</p>
+
+<p>'Let your Majesty rest well!' answered the Rajpoot, 'it was a woman who
+wept, and disappeared on my approach.' This answer completed the Rajah's
+astonishment and delight; for we know&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'He is brave whose tongue is silent of the trophies of his sword;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He is great whose quiet bearing marks his greatness well assured.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>So when the day was come, he called a full council, and, declaring
+therein all the events of the night, he invested the faithful guard with
+the sovereignty of the Carnatic.</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Thus, then,&quot; concluded King Silver-sides, &quot;in entertaining strangers a
+man may add to his friends.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;It may well be,&quot; replied the Goose; &quot;but a Minister should advise what
+is expedient, and not what is pleasing in sentiment:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'When the Priest, the Leech, the Vizir of a King his flatterers be,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Very soon the King will part with health, and wealth, and piety.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'Let it pass, then,' said Silver-sides, 'and turn we to the matter in
+hand. King Jewel-plume is even now pitched under the Ghauts. What think
+you?'</p>
+
+<p>'That we shall vanquish him,' replied the Goose; 'for he disregards, as
+I learn, the counsel of that great statesman, the Vulture Far-sight; and
+the wise have said&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Merciless, or money-loving, deaf to counsel, false of faith,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thoughtless, spiritless, or careless, changing course with every breath,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or the man who scorns his rival&mdash;if a prince should choose a foe,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ripe for meeting and defeating, certes he would choose him so.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>He is marching without due preparation; let us send the Paddy-bird at
+the head of a force and attack him on his march.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>Accordingly the Paddy-bird, setting out with a force of water-fowl, fell
+upon the host of the Peacock-king, and did immense execution.
+Disheartened thereat, King Jewel-plume summoned Far-sight, his Minister,
+and acknowledged to him his precipitation.</p>
+
+<p>'Wherefore do you abandon us, my father?' he said. 'Correct for us what
+has been done amiss.</p>
+
+<p>'My Liege,' replied the Vulture, 'it has been well observed&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'By the valorous and unskilful great achievements are not wrought;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Courage, led by careful Prudence, unto highest ends is brought.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>You have set Strength in the seat of Counsel, your Majesty, and he hath
+clumsily spoiled your plans. How indeed could it fall otherwise? for&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Grief kills gladness, winter summer, midnight-gloom the light of day,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Kindnesses ingratitude, and pleasant friends drive pain away;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each ends each, but none of other surer conquerors can be</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Than Impolicy of Fortune&mdash;of Misfortune Policy.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>I have said to myself, 'My Prince's understanding is affected&mdash;how else
+would he obscure the moonlight of policy with the night-vapors of talk;'
+in such a mood I cannot help him&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Wisdom answers all who ask her, but a fool she cannot aid;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Blind men in the faithful mirror see not their reflection made.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>And therefore I have been absent.'</p>
+
+<p>'My father!' said the King, joining his palms in respect, 'mine is all
+the fault! Pardon it, and instruct me how to withdraw my army without
+further loss.'</p>
+
+<p>Then the Vulture's anger melted, and he reflected&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Where the Gods are, or thy Guru&mdash;in the face of Pain and Age,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Cattle, Brahmans, Kings, and Children&mdash;reverently curb thy rage.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>And with a benignant smile, he answered the King thus, 'Be of good
+heart, my Liege; thou shalt not only bring the host back safely, but
+thou shalt first destroy the castle of King Silver-sides.'</p>
+
+<p>'How can that be, with my diminished forces?' asked the Rajah.</p>
+
+<p>'It will come to pass!' answered the Vulture. 'Break up to-day for the
+blockade of the fort.'</p>
+
+<p>Now, when this was reported by the spies to King Silver-sides, he was
+greatly alarmed. 'Good Goose!' said he, 'what is to be done? Here is the
+King of the Peacocks at hand, to blockade us&mdash;by his Minister's advice,
+too.'</p>
+
+<p>'Sire,' replied the Goose, 'separate the efficient and the inefficient
+in your force; and stimulate the loyalty of the first, with a royal
+bounty of gold and dresses, as each may seem to merit. Now is the time
+for it&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Oh, my Prince! on eight occasions prodigality is none&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In the solemn sacrificing, at the wedding of a son,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When the glittering treasure given makes the proud invader bleed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or its lustre bringeth comfort to the people in their need,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or when kinsmen are to succor, or a worthy work to end,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or to do a mistress honor, or to welcome back a friend.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'But is this expenditure needed?' said the King.</p>
+
+<p>'It is needed, my Liege,' said the Goose, 'and it befits a Monarch;
+for&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Truth, munificence, and valor, are the virtues of a King;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Royalty, devoid of either, sinks to a rejected thing.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'Let it be incurred then!' replied the King.</p>
+
+<p>At this moment Night-cloud, the Crow, made his appearance. 'Deign me one
+regard, Sire,' said he, 'the insolent enemy is at our gates; let your
+Majesty give the word, and I will go forth and show my valor and
+devotion to your Crown.'</p>
+
+<p>'It were better to keep our cover,' said the Goose. 'Wherefore else
+builded we this fortalice? Is it not said?&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Hold thy vantage!&mdash;alligators on the land make none afraid;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And the lion's but a jackal that hath left his forest-shade.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>But go, your Majesty, and encourage our warriors.&quot; Thereupon they
+repaired to the Gateway of the Fort, and all day the battle raged there.</p>
+
+<p>It was the morning after, when King Jewel-plume spake thus to his
+Minister the Vulture&mdash;'Good sir, shall thy promise be kept to us?'</p>
+
+<p>'It shall be kept, your Majesty,' replied the Vulture; 'storm the fort!'</p>
+
+<p>'We will storm it!' said the Peacock-king. The sun was not well-risen
+accordingly when the attack was made, and there arose hot fighting at
+all the four gates. It was then that the traitorous Crows, headed by
+their Monarch, Night-cloud, put fire to every dwelling in the citadel,
+and raised a shout of 'The Fort is taken! it is taken!' At this terrible
+sound the soldiers of the Swan-king forsook their posts, and plunged
+into the pool.</p>
+
+<p>Not thus King Silver-sides:&mdash;retiring coolly before the foe, with his
+General the Paddy-bird, he was cut off and encircled by the troopers of
+King Jewel-plume, under the command of his Marshal, the Cock.</p>
+
+<p>'My General,' said the King, 'thou shalt not perish for me. Fly! I can
+go no farther. Fly! I bid thee, and take counsel with the Goose that
+Crest-jewel, my son, be named King!'</p>
+
+<p>'Good my Lord,' replied the Paddy-bird, 'speak not thus! Let your
+Majesty reign victorious while the sun and moon endure. I am governor of
+your Majesty's fortress, and if the enemy enter it he shall but do so
+over my body; let me die for thee, my Master!&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Gentle, generous, and discerning; such a Prince the Gods do give!'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'That shalt thou not,' replied the Rajah&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Skilful, honest, and true-hearted; where doth such a Vassal live?'</span><br /></div>
+
+<p>'Nay! my royal Lord, escape!' cried the Paddy-bird; a king's life is the
+life of his people&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'The people are the lotus-leaves, their monarch is the sun&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When he doth sink beneath the waves they vanish every one.</span><br />
+
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When he doth rise they rise again with bud and blossom rife,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To bask awhile in his warm smile, who is their lord and life.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'Think no more of me.' At this instant the Cock rushing forward,
+inflicted a wound with his sharp spurs on the person of the King; but
+the Paddy-bird sprang in front of him, and receiving on his body the
+blows designed for the Rajah, forced him away into the pool. Then
+turning upon the Cock, he despatched him with a shower of blows from his
+long bill; and finally succumbed, fighting in the midst of his enemies.
+Thus the King of the Peacocks captured the fortress; and marched home
+with all the treasure in it, amid songs of victory.</p>
+
+<p>Then spake the Princes: &quot;In that army of the Swans there was no soldier
+like the Paddy-bird, who gave his own life for the King's.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;There be nowhere many such,&quot; replied Vishnu-Sarman; &quot;for</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'All the cows bring forth are cattle&mdash;only now and then is born</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>An authentic lord of pastures, with his shoulder-scratching horn.'<a name="FNanchor20"></a><a href="#Footnote_20"><sup>[20]</sup></a></span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>&quot;It is well spoken,&quot; said the Princes.</p>
+
+<p>&quot;But for him that dares to die so,&quot; added the Sage, &quot;may an eternal
+heaven be reserved, and may the lustrous Angels of Paradise, the
+Apsaras, conduct him thither! Is it not so declared, indeed?&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'When the soldier in the battle lays his life down for his king,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unto Swerga's perfect glory such a deed his soul shall bring.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>&quot;It is so declared,&quot; said the Rajah's sons.</p>
+
+<p>&quot;And now, my Princes,&quot; concluded Vishnu-Sarman, &quot;you have listened to
+'War.'&quot;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;We have listened, and are gratified,&quot; replied the sons of the King.</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Let me end then,&quot; said their Preceptor, &quot;with this&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 3em;'>'If the clouds of Battle lower</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>When ye come into your power,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Durga grant the foes that dare you</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Bring no elephants to scare you;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Nor the thunderous rush of horses,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Nor the footmen's steel-fringed forces:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But overblown by Policy's strong breath,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hide they in caverns from the avenging death.'</span><br />
+<br /></div>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 65%;' />
+<a name='PEACE'></a><h2>PEACE</h2>
+<br />
+
+<p>When the time came for resuming instruction, the King's sons said to
+Vishnu-Sarman, &quot;Master, we have heard of War, we would now learn
+somewhat of the treaties which follow war.&quot; &quot;It is well asked,&quot; replied
+the Sage; &quot;listen therefore to 'Peace,' which hath this commencement&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'When those great Kings their weary war did cease,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Vulture and the Goose concluded Peace.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'How came that?' asked the Princes.</p>
+
+<p>Vishnu-Sarman related:&mdash;</p>
+<br />
+
+<a name='The_Treaty_Between_the_Peacocks_and_the_Swans'></a><h4><b>The Treaty Between the Peacocks and the Swans</b></h4>
+
+<p>&quot;So soon as King Jewel-plume had retreated, the first care of King
+Silver-sides was the discovery of the treason that had cost him the
+fort.</p>
+
+<p>'Goose,' he said to his Minister, 'who put the fire to our citadel,
+think you? Was it an enemy or an inmate?'</p>
+
+<p>'Sire,' replied the Goose, 'Night-cloud and his followers are nowhere to
+be seen&mdash;it must needs be his work.'</p>
+
+<p>'It must needs be,' sighed the King, after a pause; 'but what
+ill-fortune!'</p>
+
+<p>'If it please your Majesty, no,' replied the Minister; 'it is written&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;'Tis the fool who, meeting trouble, straightway destiny reviles;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Knowing not his own misdoing brought his own mischance the whiles.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>You have forgotten the saying&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Who listens not, when true friends counsel well,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Must fall, as once the foolish Tortoise fell.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'I never heard it,' said the King. 'How was that?' The Goose related&mdash;</p>
+<br />
+
+<a name='The_Story_of_the_Tortoise_and_the_Geese'></a><h4><b>The Story of the Tortoise and the Geese</b></h4>
+
+<p>&quot;There is a pool in South Behar called the 'Pool of the Blue Lotus,' and
+two Geese had for a long time lived there. They had a friend in the pool
+who was a Tortoise, and he was known as 'Shelly-neck,' It chanced one
+evening that the Tortoise overheard some fishermen talking by the water.
+'We will stop here to-night,' they said, 'and in the morning we will
+catch the fish, the tortoises, and such like.' Extremely alarmed at
+this, the Tortoise repaired to his friends the Geese, and reported the
+conversation.</p>
+
+<p>'What ever am I to do, Gossips?' he asked.</p>
+
+<p>'The first thing is to be assured of the danger,' said the Geese.</p>
+
+<p>'I am assured,' exclaimed the Tortoise; 'the first thing is to avoid it:
+don't you know?&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Time-not-come' and 'Quick-at-peril,' these two fishes 'scaped the net;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'What-will-be-will-be,' he perished, by the fishermen beset.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'No,' said the Geese,' how was it?' Shelly-neck related:&mdash;</p>
+<br />
+
+<a name='The_Story_of_Fate_and_the_Three_Fishes'></a><h4><b>The Story of Fate and the Three Fishes</b></h4>
+
+<p>&quot;It was just such a pool as this, and on the arrival at it of just such
+men as these fishermen, that three fishes, who had heard their designs,
+held consultation as to what should be done.</p>
+
+<p>'I shall go to another water,' said &quot;Time-not-come,&quot; and away he went.</p>
+
+<p>'Why should we leave unless obliged?' asked &quot;Quick-at-peril.&quot; 'When the
+thing befalls I shall do the best I can&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Who deals with bad dilemmas well, is wise.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The merchant's wife, with womanly device,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Kissed&mdash;and denied the kiss&mdash;under his eyes.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'How was that?' asked the other fish. Quick-at-peril related:&mdash;</p>
+<br />
+
+<a name='The_Story_of_the_Unabashed_Wife'></a><h4><b>The Story of the Unabashed Wife</b></h4>
+
+<p>&quot;There was a trader in Vikrama-poora, who had a very beautiful wife, and
+her name was Jewel-bright. The lady was as unfaithful as she was fair,
+and had chosen for her last lover one of the household servants. Ah!
+womankind!&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Sex, that tires of being true,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Base and new is brave to you!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like the jungle-cows ye range,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Changing food for sake of change.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Now it befell one day that as Jewel-bright was bestowing a kiss on the
+mouth of the servant, she was surprised by her husband; and seeing him
+she ran up hastily and said, 'My lord, here is an impudent varlet! he
+eats the camphor which I procured for you; I was actually smelling it on
+his lips as you entered.' The servant catching her meaning, affected
+offence. 'How can a man stay in a house where the mistress is always
+smelling one's lips for a little camphor?' he said; and thereat he was
+for going off, and was only constrained by the good man to stay, after
+much entreaty. 'Therefore,' said Quick-at-peril, 'I mean to abide here,
+and make the best I can of what befalls, as she did.'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, yes,' said What-will-be-will-be, 'we all know</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'That which will not be will not be, and what is to be will be:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Why not drink this easy physic, antidote of misery?'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'When the morning came, the net was thrown, and both the fishes
+inclosed. Quick-at-peril, on being drawn up, feigned himself dead; and
+upon the fisherman's laying him aside, he leaped off again into the
+water. As to What-will-be-will-be, he was seized and forthwith
+dispatched.&mdash;And that,' concluded the Tortoise, 'is why I wish to devise
+some plan of escape.'</p>
+
+<p>'It might be compassed if you could go elsewhere,' said the Geese, 'but
+how can you get across the ground?'</p>
+
+<p>'Can't you take me through the air?' asked the Tortoise.</p>
+
+<p>'Impossible!' said the Geese.</p>
+
+<p>'Not at all!' replied the Tortoise; 'you shall hold a stick across in
+your bills, and I will hang on to it by my mouth&mdash;and thus you can
+readily convey me,'</p>
+
+<p>'It is feasible,' observed the Geese, 'but remember,</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Wise men their plans revolve, lest ill befall;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Herons gained a friend, and so, lost all.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'How came that about?' asked the Tortoise. The Geese related:&mdash;</p>
+<br />
+
+<a name='The_Story_of_the_Herons_and_the_Mongoose'></a><h4><b>The Story of the Herons and the Mongoose</b></h4>
+
+<p>&quot;Among the mountains of the north there is one named Eagle-cliff, and
+near it, upon a fig-tree, a flock of Herons had their residence. At the
+foot of the tree, in a hollow, there lived a serpent; and he was
+constantly devouring the nestlings of the Herons. Loud were the
+complaints of the parent birds, until an old Heron thus advised
+them:&mdash;'You should bring some fishes from the pool, and lay them one by
+one in a line from the hole of yonder Mongoose to the hollow where the
+Serpent lives. The Mongoose will find him when it comes after the fish,
+and if it finds him it will kill him.' The advice seemed good, and was
+acted upon; but in killing the Snake the Mongoose overheard the cry of
+the young Herons; and climbing the tree daily, he devoured all that the
+Snake had left. Therefore,' concluded the Geese, 'do we bid you look
+well into your plan: if you should open your mouth, for instance, as we
+carry you, you will drop and be killed.'</p>
+
+<p>'Am I a fool,' cried the Tortoise, 'to open my mouth? Not I! Come now,
+convey me!'</p>
+
+<p>'Thereupon the Geese took up the stick; the Tortoise held fast with his
+mouth, and away they flew. The country people, observing this strange
+sight, ran after.</p>
+
+<p>'Ho! ho!' cried one, 'look at the flying Tortoise!'</p>
+
+<p>'When he falls we'll cook and eat him here,' said another.</p>
+
+<p>'No; let us take him home for dinner!' cried a third.</p>
+
+<p>'We can light a fire by the pool, and eat him,' said the first.</p>
+
+<p>'The Tortoise heard these unkind remarks in a towering passion. 'Eat
+me!&mdash;eat ashes!' he exclaimed, opening his mouth&mdash;and down he fell
+directly, and was caught by the countrymen.&mdash;Said I not well,' concluded
+the Goose-Minister, 'that to scorn counsel is to seek destruction?'</p>
+
+<p>'You have well said,' replied King Silver-sides, disconsolately.</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, your Majesty,' interposed the Crane, who was just returned, 'if
+the Fort had been cleared, Night-cloud could not have fired it, as he
+did, by the Vulture's instigation.'</p>
+
+<p>'We see it all,' sighed the King, 'but too late!'</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Whoso trusts, for service rendered, or fair words, an enemy,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wakes from folly like one falling in his slumber from a tree.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'I witnessed Night-cloud's reception,' continued the Crane. 'King
+Jewel-plume showed him great favor, and was for anointing him Rajah of
+Camphor-island.'</p>
+
+<p>'Hear you that, my Liege?' asked the Goose.</p>
+
+<p>'Go on; I hear!' said Silver-sides.</p>
+
+<p>'To that the Vulture demurred,' continued the Crane:&mdash;'&quot;favor to low
+persons,&quot; he said, &quot;was like writing on the sea-sand. To set the
+base-born in the seat of the great was long ago declared impolitic&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Give mean men power, and give thy throat to the knife;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Mouse, made Tiger, sought his master's life.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'How was that?' asked King Jewel-plume. The Vulture related&mdash;</p>
+<br />
+
+<a name='The_Story_of_the_Recluse_and_the_Mouse'></a><h4><b>The Story of the Recluse and the Mouse</b></h4>
+
+<p>&quot;In the forest of the Sage Gautama there dwelt a Recluse named
+Mighty-at-Prayer. Once, as he sat at his frugal meal, a young mouse
+dropped beside him from the beak of a crow, and he took it up and fed it
+tenderly with rice grains. Some time after the Saint observed a cat
+pursuing his dependent to devour it, whereupon he changed the mouse into
+a stout cat. The cat was a great deal harassed by dogs, upon which the
+Saint again transformed it into a dog. The dog was always in danger of
+the tigers, and his protector at last gave him the form of a
+tiger&mdash;considering him all this while, and treating him withal, like
+nothing but a mouse. The country-folk passing by would say, 'That a
+tiger! not he; it is a mouse the Saint has transformed.' And the mouse
+being vexed at this, reflected, 'So long as the Master lives, this
+shameful story of my origin will survive!' With this thought he was
+about to take the Saint's life, when he, who knew his purpose, turned
+the ungrateful beast by a word to his original shape. Besides, your
+Majesty,&quot; continued the Vulture, &quot;it may not be so easy to take in
+Camphor-island&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Many fine fishes did the old Crane kill,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But the Crab matched him, maugre all his bill.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'How came that to pass?' asked Jewel-plume.</p>
+
+<p>'The Vulture related:&mdash;</p>
+<br />
+
+<a name='The_Story_of_the_Crane_and_the_Crab'></a><h4><b>The Story of the Crane and the Crab</b></h4>
+
+<p>&quot;There was an old Crane at a mere called Lily-water, in Malwa, who stood
+one day in the shallows with a most dejected look and drooping bill. A
+Crab observed him and called out, 'Friend Crane! have you given up
+eating, that you stand there all day?' 'Nay, sir!' replied the old
+Crane; 'I love my dish of fish, but I have heard the fishermen say that
+they mean to capture every one that swims in this water; and as that
+destroys my hope of subsistence, I am resigning myself to death.' All
+this the fishes overheard. 'In this matter certainly,' they said, 'his
+interest is ours; we ought to consult him; for it is written&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Fellow be with kindly foemen, rather than with friends unkind;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Friend and foeman are distinguished not by title but by mind.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Thereupon they repaired to him: 'Good Crane,' they said, 'what course is
+there for safety?'</p>
+
+<p>'Course of safety there is,' replied the Crane, 'to go elsewhere; and I
+will carry you one by one to another pool, if you please.'</p>
+
+<p>'Do so,' said the trembling fishes.</p>
+
+<p>&quot;The Crane accordingly took one after another, and having eaten them
+returned with the report that he had safely deposited each. Last of all,
+the Crab requested to be taken; and the Crane, coveting his tender
+flesh, took him up with great apparent respect. On arriving at the spot,
+which was covered with fish-bones, the Crab perceived the fate reserved
+for him; and turning round he fastened upon the Crane's throat and tore
+it so that he perished.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, but,' said King Jewel-plume, 'we can make Night-cloud viceroy
+here, to send over to Vindhya all the productions of Camphor-isle!'</p>
+
+<p>'Then the Vulture Far-sight laughed a low laugh and said&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Who, ere he makes a gain has spent it,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like the pot-breaker will repent it.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'What was that?' asked the King. Far-sight related:&mdash;</p>
+<br />
+
+<a name='The_Story_of_the_Brahman_and_the_Pans'></a><h4><b>The Story of the Brahman and the Pans</b></h4>
+
+<p>&quot;There was a Brahman in the city of V&aacute;na, whose name was Deva Sarman. At
+the equinoctial feast of the Dussera, he obtained for his duxina-gift a
+dish of flour, which he took into a potter's shed; and there lay down in
+the shade among the pots, staff in hand. As he thus reclined he began to
+meditate, 'I can sell this meal for ten cowrie-shells, and with them I
+can purchase some of these pots and sell them at an advance. With all
+that money I shall invest in betel-nuts and body-cloths and make a new
+profit by their sale; and so go on trafficking till I get a lakh of
+rupees&mdash;what's to prevent me? Then I shall marry four wives&mdash;and one at
+least will be beautiful and young, and she shall be my favorite. Of
+course the others will be jealous; but if they quarrel, and talk, and
+trouble me I will belabor them like this&mdash;and this'&mdash;and therewith he
+flourished his staff to such a purpose as to smash his meal-dish and
+break several of the potter's jars. The potter, rushing out, took him by
+the throat, and turned him off; and so ended his speculations. I smiled,
+my Liege,' concluded the Vulture, 'at your precipitancy, thinking of
+that story.'</p>
+
+<p>'Tell me, then, my Father, what should be done,' said the King.</p>
+
+<p>'Tell me first, your Majesty, what took the fortress: strength or
+stratagem?'</p>
+
+<p>'It was a device of yours,' said the King.</p>
+
+<p>'It is well,' replied the Minister, 'and my counsel now is to return
+before the rainy season, while we can return; and to make peace. We have
+won renown and taken the enemy's stronghold; let it suffice. I speak as
+a faithful adviser; and it is written&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Whoso setting duty highest, speaks at need unwelcome things,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Disregarding fear and favor, such a one may succor kings.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Oh, my Liege! war is uncertain! Nay, it may ruin victor and
+vanquished&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Sunda the strong, and giant Upasunda,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Contending, like the lightning and the thunder,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Slew each the other. Learn, the while you wonder.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'Tell me that,' said the King of the Peacocks.</p>
+
+<p>'The Vulture related&mdash;</p>
+<br />
+
+<a name='The_Duel_of_the_Giants'></a><h4><b>The Duel of the Giants</b></h4>
+
+<p>&quot;Long ago, my Liege, there were two Daityas named Sunda and Upasunda,
+the which with penance and fasting worshipped that God who wears the
+moon for his forehead-jewel; desiring to win his favor, and thereby the
+lordship of the Three Worlds. At last the God, propitiated by their
+devotion, spake thus unto them:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'I grant a boon unto ye&mdash;choose what it shall be.'</p>
+
+<p>'And they, who would have asked dominion, were suddenly minded of
+Saraswati&mdash;who reigns over the hearts and thoughts of men&mdash;to seek a
+forbidden thing.</p>
+
+<p>'If,' said they, 'we have found favor, let the Divinity give us his own
+cherished Parvati, the Queen of Heaven!'</p>
+
+<p>'Terribly incensed was the God, but his word had passed, and the boon
+must be granted; and Parvati the Divine was delivered up to them. Then
+those two world-breakers, sick at heart, sin-blinded, and afire with the
+glorious beauty of the Queen of Life&mdash;began to dispute, saying one to
+another: 'Mine is she! mine is she!' At the last they called for an
+umpire, and the God himself appeared before them as a venerable Brahman.</p>
+
+<p>'Master,' said they, 'tell us whose she is, for we both won her by our
+might.'</p>
+
+<p>'Then spake that Brahman:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Brahmans for their lore have honor; Kshattriyas for their bravery;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vaisyas for their hard-earned treasure; Sudras for humility,'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Ye are Kshattriyas&mdash;and it is yours to fight; settle, then, this
+question by the sword.'</p>
+
+<p>'Thereupon they agreed that he spoke wisely, and drew and battled; and
+being of equal force, they fell at the same moment by an exchange of
+blows. Good my Lord,' concluded the Minister, 'peace is a better thing
+than war,'</p>
+
+<p>'But why not say so before?' asked Jewel-plume.</p>
+
+<p>'I said it at the first,' replied the Minister. 'I knew King
+Silver-sides for a just King, upon whom it was ill to wage battle. How
+say the Scriptures?&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Seven foemen of all foemen, very hard to vanquish be:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Truth-teller, the Just-dweller, and the man from passion free,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Subtle, self-sustained, and counting frequent well-won victories,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And the man of many kinsmen&mdash;keep the peace with such as these.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>The Swan-king has friends and kinsmen, my Liege:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'And the man with many kinsmen answers with them all attacks;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As the bambu, in the bambus safely sheltered, scorns the axe.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'My counsel then is that peace be concluded with him,' said the Vulture.</p>
+
+<p>'All this King Silver-sides and his Minister the Goose heard attentively
+from the Crane.</p>
+
+<p>'Go again!' said the Goose to Long-bill, 'and bring us news of how the
+Vulture's advice is received.'</p>
+
+<p>'Minister!' began the King, upon the departure of the Crane, 'tell me as
+to this peace, who are they with whom it should not be concluded?'</p>
+
+<p>'They be twenty, namely&mdash;&mdash;'</p>
+
+<p>'Tarry not to name them,' said the King; 'and what be the qualities of a
+good ally?'</p>
+
+<p>'Such should be learned in Peace and War,' replied the Goose, 'in
+marching and pitching, and seasonably placing an army in the field; for
+it is said&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'He who sets his battle wisely, conquers the unwary foe;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As the Owl, awaiting night-time, slew the overweening Crow.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Counsel, my Liege, is quintuple&mdash;Commencing, providing, dividing,
+repelling, and completing,'</p>
+
+<p>'Good!' said the King.</p>
+
+<p>'Power is triple,' continued the Goose, 'being of Kings, of counsels,
+and of constant effort.'</p>
+
+<p>'It is so!' said the King.</p>
+
+<p>'And expedients, my Liege,' continued the Goose, 'are quadruple, and
+consist of conciliation, of gifts, of strife-stirring, and of force of
+arms; for thus it is written&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Whoso hath the gift of giving wisely, equitably, well;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whoso, learning all men's secrets, unto none his own will tell;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whoso, ever cold and courtly, utters nothing that offends,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Such a one may rule his fellows unto Earth's extremest ends.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'Then King Jewel-plume would be a good ally,' observed the Swan-king.</p>
+
+<p>'Doubtless!' said the Goose, 'but elated with victory, he will hardly
+listen to the Vulture's counsel; we must make him do it.'</p>
+
+<p>'How?' asked the King.</p>
+
+<p>'We will cause our dependent, the King of Ceylon, Strong-bill the Stork,
+to raise an insurrection in Jambudwipa.'</p>
+
+<p>'It is well-conceived,' said the King. And forthwith a Crane, named
+Pied-body, was dismissed with a secret message to that Rajah.</p>
+
+<p>'In course of time the first Crane, who had been sent as a spy, came
+back, and made his report. He related that the Vulture had advised his
+Sovereign to summon Night-cloud, the Crow, and learn from him regarding
+King Silver-sides' intentions. Night-cloud attended accordingly.</p>
+
+<p>'Crow!' asked King Jewel-plume, 'what sort of a Monarch is the Rajah
+Silver-sides?'</p>
+
+<p>'Truthful, may it please you,' replied the Crow; 'and therewithal noble
+as Yudisthira himself.'</p>
+
+<p>'And his Minister, the Goose?'</p>
+
+<p>'Is a Minister unrivalled, my Liege,' said the Crow-king.</p>
+
+<p>'But how then didst thou so easily deceive them?'</p>
+
+<p>'Ah! your Majesty,' said the Crow, 'there was little credit in that. Is
+it not said?&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Cheating them that truly trust you, 'tis a clumsy villainy!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Any knave may slay the child who climbs and slumbers on his knee.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Besides, the Minister detected me immediately. It was the King whose
+innate goodness forbade him to suspect evil in another:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Believe a knave, thyself scorning a lie,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And rue it, like the Brahman, by and by.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'What Brahman was that?' asked the King. Night-cloud replied:&mdash;</p>
+<br />
+
+<a name='The_Story_of_the_Brahman_and_the_Goat'></a><h4><b>The Story of the Brahman and the Goat</b></h4>
+
+<p>&quot;A Brahman that lived in the forest of Gautama, your Majesty. He had
+purveyed a goat to make pooja, and was returning home with it on life
+shoulder when he was descried by three knaves. 'If we could but obtain
+that goat,' said they, 'it would be a rare trick'; and they ran on, and
+seated themselves at the foot of three different trees upon the
+Brahman's road. Presently he came up with the first of them, who
+addressed him thus: 'Master! why do you carry that dog on your
+shoulder?' 'Dog!' said the Brahman, 'it is a goat for sacrifice!' With
+that he went on a coss, and came to the second knave; who called
+out&mdash;'What doest thou with that dog, Master?' The Brahman laid his goat
+upon the ground, looked it all over, took it up again upon his back, and
+walked on with his mind in a whirl; for&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'The good think evil slowly, and they pay</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A price for faith&mdash;as witness &quot;Crop-ear&quot; may.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'Who was Crop-ear?' asked the King of the Peacocks.</p>
+<br />
+
+<a name='The_Story_of_the_Camel_the_Lion_and_His_Court'></a><h4><b>The Story of the Camel, the Lion, and His Court</b></h4>
+
+<p>&quot;A Camel, may it please you,&quot; replied Night-cloud, &quot;who strayed away
+from a kafila, and wandered into the forest. A Lion, named
+'Fierce-fangs,' lived in that forest; and his three courtiers, a Tiger,
+a Jackal, and a Crow, met the Camel, and conducted him to their King.
+His account of himself was satisfactory, and the Lion took him into his
+service under the name of Crop-ear. Now it happened that the rainy
+season was very severe, and the Lion became indisposed, so that there
+was much difficulty in obtaining food for the Court. The courtiers
+resolved accordingly to prevail on the Lion to kill the Camel; 'for what
+interest have we,' they said, 'in this browser of thistles?'</p>
+
+<p>'What, indeed!' observed the Tiger; 'but will the Rajah kill him after
+his promise of protection, think you?'</p>
+
+<p>'Being famished he will,' said the Crow. 'Know you not?&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Hunger hears not, cares not, spares not; no boon of the starving beg;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When the snake is pinched with craving, verily she eats her egg.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Accordingly they repaired to the Lion.</p>
+
+<p>'Hast brought me food, fellow?' growled the Rajah.</p>
+
+<p>'None, may it please you,' said the Crow.</p>
+
+<p>'Must we starve, then?' asked his Majesty.</p>
+
+<p>'Not unless you reject the food before you, Sire,' rejoined the Crow.</p>
+
+<p>'Before me! how mean you?'</p>
+
+<p>'I mean,' replied the Crow (and he whispered it in the Lion's ear),
+'Crop-ear, the Camel!'</p>
+
+<p>'Now!' said the Lion, and he touched the ground, and afterwards both
+ears, as he spoke, 'I have given him my pledge for his safety, and how
+should I slay him?'</p>
+
+<p>'Nay, Sire! I said not slay,' replied the Crow; 'it may be that he will
+offer himself for food. To that your Majesty would not object?'</p>
+
+<p>'I am parlous hungry,' muttered the Lion.</p>
+
+<p>'Then the Crow went to find the Camel, and, bringing all together before
+the King under some pretence or other, he thus addressed him:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'Sire! our pains are come to nothing: we can get no food, and we behold
+our Lord falling away,</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Of the Tree of State the root</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Kings are&mdash;feed what brings the fruit.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Take me, therefore, your Majesty, and break your fast upon me.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>'Good Crow,' said the Lion, 'I had liefer die than do so.'</p>
+
+<p>'Will your Majesty deign to make a repast upon me?' asked the Jackal.</p>
+
+<p>'On no account!' replied the Lion.</p>
+
+<p>'Condescend, my Lord,' said the Tiger, 'to appease your hunger with my
+poor flesh.'</p>
+
+<p>'Impossible!' responded the Lion.</p>
+
+<p>'Thereupon Crop-ear, not to be behind in what seemed safe, made offer of
+his own carcase, which was accepted before he had finished; the Tiger
+instantly tearing his flank open, and all the rest at once devouring
+him.</p>
+
+<p>'The Brahman,' continued Night-cloud, 'suspected nothing more than did
+the Camel; and when the third knave had broken his jest upon him for
+bearing a dog, he threw it down, washed himself clean of the
+contamination, and went home; while the knaves secured and cooked his
+goat.'</p>
+
+<p>'But, Night-cloud,' asked the Rajah, 'how couldst thou abide so long
+among enemies, and conciliate them?'</p>
+
+<p>'It is easy to play the courtier for a purpose,' said Night-cloud&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Courtesy may cover malice; on their heads the woodmen bring,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Meaning all the while to burn them, logs and fagots&mdash;oh, my King!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And the strong and subtle river, rippling at the cedar's foot,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While it seems to lave and kiss it, undermines the hanging root.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Indeed, it has been said&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'A wise man for an object's sake</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His foe upon his back will take,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As with the Frogs once did the Snake.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'How was that?' asked the Peacock-King. The Crow related:&mdash;</p>
+<br />
+
+<a name='The_Story_of_the_Frogs_and_the_Old_Serpent'></a><h4><b>The Story of the Frogs and the Old Serpent</b></h4>
+
+<p>&quot;In a deserted garden there once lived a Serpent, 'Slow-coil' by name;
+who had reached an age when he was no longer able to obtain his own
+food. Lying listlessly by the edge of a pond, he was descried by a
+certain Frog, and interrogated&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'Have you given up caring for food, Serpent?'</p>
+
+<p>'Leave me, kindly Sir,' replied the subtle reptile; 'the griefs of a
+miserable wretch like me cannot interest your lofty mind.'</p>
+
+<p>'Let me at least hear them,' said the Frog, somewhat flattered.</p>
+
+<p>'You must know, then, gracious Sir,' began the Serpent, 'that it is now
+twenty years since here, in Brahmapoora, I bit the son of Kaundinya, a
+holy Brahman; of which cruel bite he died. Seeing his boy dead,
+Kaundinya abandoned himself to despair, and grovelled in his distress
+upon the ground. Thereat came all his kinsmen, citizens of Brahmapoora,
+and sat down with him, as the manner is&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'He who shares his brother's portion, be he beggar, be he lord,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Comes as truly, comes as duly, to the battle as the board;</span><br />
+
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Stands before the King to succor, follows to the pile to sigh;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He is friend and he is kinsman&mdash;less would make the name a lie.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Then spoke a twice-passed Brahman,<a name="FNanchor21"></a><a href="#Footnote_21"><sup>[21]</sup></a> Kapila by name, 'O Kaundinya!
+thou dost forget thyself to lament thus. Hear what is written&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Weep not! Life the hired nurse is, holding us a little space;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Death, the mother who doth take us back into our proper place.'</span><br />
+
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Gone, with all their gauds and glories: gone, like peasants, are the Kings,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whereunto the world is witness, whereof all her record rings.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>What, indeed, my friend, is this mortal frame, that we should set store
+by it?&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'For the body, daily wasting, is not seen to waste away,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Until wasted, as in water set a jar of unbaked clay.'</span><br />
+
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'And day after day man goeth near and nearer to his fate,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As step after step the victim thither where its slayers wait.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Friends and kinsmen&mdash;they must all be surrendered! Is it not said&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Like as a plank of drift-wood</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Tossed on the watery main,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Another plank encountered,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Meets&mdash;touches&mdash;parts again;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So tossed, and drifting ever,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>On life's unresting sea,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Men meet, and greet, and sever,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Parting eternally.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Thou knowest these things, let thy wisdom chide thy sorrow, saying&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Halt, traveller! rest i' the shade: then up and leave it!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Stay, Soul! take fill of love; nor losing, grieve it!'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>But in sooth a wise man would better avoid love; for&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Each beloved object born</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sets within the heart a thorn,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bleeding, when they be uptorn.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>And it is well asked&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'When thine own house, this rotting frame, doth wither,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thinking another's lasting&mdash;goest thou thither?'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>What will be, will be; and who knows not&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Meeting makes a parting sure,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Life is nothing but death's door.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>For truly&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'As the downward-running rivers never turn and never stay,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So the days and nights stream deathward, bearing human lives away.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>And though it be objected that&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Bethinking him of darkness grim, and death's unshunned pain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A man strong-souled relaxes hold, like leather soaked in rain.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Yet is this none the less assured, that&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'From the day, the hour, the minute,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Each life quickens in the womb;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thence its march, no falter in it,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Goes straight forward to the tomb.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Form, good friend, a true idea of mundane matters; and bethink thee that
+regret is after all but an illusion, an ignorance&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'An 'twere not so, would sorrow cease with years?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wisdom sees aright what want of knowledge fears.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'Kaundinya listened to all this with the air of a dreamer. Then rising
+up he said, 'Enough! the house is hell to me&mdash;I will betake me to the
+forest.'</p>
+
+<p>'Will that stead you?' asked Kapila; 'nay&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Seek not the wild, sad heart! thy passions haunt it;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Play hermit in thine house with heart undaunted;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A governed heart, thinking no thought but good,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Makes crowded houses holy solitude.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>To be master of one's self&mdash;to eat only to prolong life&mdash;to yield to
+love no more than may suffice to perpetuate a family&mdash;and never to speak
+but in the cause of truth, this,' said Kapila, 'is armor against grief.
+What wouldst thou with a hermit's life&mdash;prayer and purification from
+sorrow and sin in holy streams? Hear this!&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Away with those that preach to us the washing off of sin&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thine own self is the stream for thee to make ablutions in:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In self-restraint it rises pure&mdash;flows clear in tide of truth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By widening banks of wisdom, in waves of peace and ruth.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bathe there, thou son of Pandu! with reverence and rite,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For never yet was water wet could wash the spirit white.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Resign thyself to loss. Pain exists absolutely. Ease, what is it but a
+minute's alleviation?'</p>
+
+<p>'It is nothing else,' said Kaundinya: 'I will resign myself!'
+Thereupon,' the Serpent continued, 'he cursed me with the curse that I
+should be a carrier of frogs, and so retired&mdash;and here remain I to do
+according to the Brahman's malediction.'</p>
+
+<p>'The Frog, hearing all this, went and reported it to Web-foot the
+Frog-King, who shortly came himself for an excursion on the Serpent. He
+was carried delightfully, and constantly employed the conveyance. But
+one day observing the Serpent to be sluggish, he asked the reason.</p>
+
+<p>'May it please you,' explained the Serpent, 'your slave has nothing to
+eat.'</p>
+
+<p>'Eat a few of my frogs,' said the King. 'I give you leave.'</p>
+
+<p>'I thank your Majesty!' answered the Serpent, and forthwith he began to
+eat the frogs, until the pond becoming clear, he finished with their
+monarch himself. 'I also,' said Night-cloud, 'stooped to conquer, but
+King Silver-sides is a good King, and I would your Majesty were at peace
+with him.'</p>
+
+<p>'Peace!' cried King Jewel-plume, 'shall I make peace with my vassal! I
+have vanquished him&mdash;let him serve me!'</p>
+
+<p>&quot;At this moment the Parrot came in. 'Sire!' said he, breathlessly,' the
+Stork Strong-bill, Rajah of Ceylon, has raised the standard of revolt in
+Jambudwipa, and claims the country.'</p>
+
+<p>'What! what!' cried the King in a fury.</p>
+
+<p>'Excellent good, Goose!' muttered the Minister. 'This is thy work!'</p>
+
+<p>'Bid him but await me!' exclaimed the King, 'and I will tear him up like
+a tree!'</p>
+
+<p>'Ah, Sire,' said the Minister&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Thunder for nothing, like December's cloud,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Passes unmarked: strike hard, but speak not loud.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>We cannot march without making peace first; our rear will be attacked.'</p>
+
+<p>'Must it be so?' asked the King.</p>
+
+<p>'My Liege, it must,' replied the Vulture.</p>
+
+<p>'Make a peace then,' said the King, 'and make an end.'</p>
+
+<p>'It is well,' observed the Minister, and set out for the Court of the
+King Silver-sides. While he was yet coming, the Crane announced his
+approach.</p>
+
+<p>'Ah!' said the Swan-King, 'this will be another designing spy from the
+enemy.'</p>
+
+<p>'Misdoubt him not!' answered the Goose, smiling, 'it is the Vulture
+Far-sight, a spirit beyond suspicion. Would your Majesty be as the Swan
+that took the stars reflected in the pool for lily-buds, and being
+deceived, would eat no lily-shoots by day, thinking them stars?'</p>
+
+<p>'Not so! but treachery breeds mistrust,' replied the Rajah; is it not
+written&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Minds deceived by evil natures, from the good their faith withhold;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When hot conjee once has burned them, children blow upon the cold.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'It is so written, my Liege,' said the Minister. 'But this one may be
+trusted. Let him be received with compliments and a gift.'</p>
+
+<p>'Accordingly the Vulture was conducted, with the most profound respect,
+from the fort to the King's audience-hall, where a throne was placed for
+him.</p>
+
+<p>'Minister,' said the Goose, 'consider us and ours at thy disposal.'</p>
+
+<p>'So consider us,' assented the Swan-King.</p>
+
+<p>'I thank you,' said Far-sight; 'but&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'With a gift the miser meet;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Proud men by obeisance greet;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Women's silly fancies soothe;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Give wise men their due&mdash;the truth.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>'I am come to conclude a peace, not to claim your kingdom. By what mode
+shall we conclude it?'</p>
+
+<p>'How many modes be there?' asked King Silver-sides.</p>
+
+<p>'Sixteen,' replied the Vulture.</p>
+
+<p>'Are the alliances numbered therein?' asked the King.</p>
+
+<p>'No! these be four,' answered the Vulture, 'namely&mdash;of mutual help&mdash;of
+friendship&mdash;of blood&mdash;and of sacrifice.'</p>
+
+<p>'You are a great diplomatist!' said the King. 'Advise us which to
+choose!'</p>
+
+<p>'There is no Peace like the Golden &quot;Sangata,&quot; which is made between good
+men, based on friendly feeling, and preceded by the Oath of Truth,'
+replied the Vulture.</p>
+
+<p>'Let us make that Peace!' said the Goose. Far-sight accordingly, with
+fresh presents of robes and jewels, accompanied the Goose to the camp of
+the Peacock-King. The Rajah, Jewel-plume, gave the Goose a gracious
+audience, accepted his terms of Peace, and sent him back to the
+Swan-King, loaded with gifts and kind speeches. The revolt in Jambudwipa
+was suppressed, and the Peacock-King retired to his own kingdom.</p>
+
+<p>&quot;And now,&quot; said Vishnu-Sarman, &quot;I have told your Royal Highnesses all.
+Is there anything remaining to be told?&quot;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;Reverend Sir!&quot; replied the Princes, &quot;there is nothing. Thanks to you,
+we have heard and comprehended the perfect cycle of kingly duty, and are
+content.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>&quot;There remains but this, then,&quot; said their Preceptor:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 3em;'>'Peace and Plenty, all fair things,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Grace the realm where ye reign Kings;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Grief and loss come not anigh you,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Glory guide and magnify you;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Wisdom keep your statesmen still</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Clinging fast, in good or ill,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Clinging, like a bride new-wed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Unto lips, and breast, and head:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And day by day, that these fair things befall,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Lady Lukshmi give her grace to all.'</span><br />
+</div>
+
+
+
+
+<hr style='width: 65%;' />
+<a name='NALA_AND_DAMAYANTI_a'></a><h2>NALA AND DAMAYANTI</h2>
+
+<h4>[<i>Selected from the &quot;Mah&acirc;bh&acirc;rata&quot; Translation by Sir Edwin Arnold</i>]</h4>
+<br />
+
+<a name='ND_INTRODUCTION'></a><h3>INTRODUCTION</h3>
+<br />
+
+<p>The &quot;Mah&acirc;bh&acirc;rata&quot; is the oldest epic in Sanscrit literature, and is
+sevenfold greater in bulk than the &quot;Iliad&quot; and &quot;Odyssey&quot; taken together.
+This remarkable poem contains almost all the history of ancient India,
+so far as it can be recovered, together with inexhaustible details of
+its political, social, and religious life&mdash;in fact, the antique Hindoo
+world stands epitomized in it. The Old Testament is not more interwoven
+with the Jewish race, nor the New Testament with the civilization of
+Christendom, nor even the Koran with the records and destinies of Islam,
+than is this great Sanscrit poem with the unchanging and teeming
+population of Hindostan. The stories, songs, and ballads, the
+genealogies, the nursery tales and religious discourses, the art, the
+learning, the philosophy, the creeds, the modes of thought, the very
+phrases and daily ideas of the Hindoo people are taken from this poem.
+Their children are named after its heroes; so are their cities, streets,
+and even cattle. It is the spiritual life of the Hindoo people. It is
+personified, worshipped, and cited as being something divine. To read,
+or even to listen, is to the devout Hindoo sufficiently meritorious to
+bring prosperity to the fireside in this world, and happiness in the
+world to come.</p>
+
+<p>The western world has as yet only received the &quot;Mah&acirc;bh&acirc;rata&quot; in
+fragments&mdash;mere specimens, bearing to those vast treasures of Sanscrit
+literature such small proportion as cabinet samples of ore have to the
+riches of a mine. Such knowledge as we have of the great Indian epics is
+largely due to Sir William Jones, and the host of translators who
+followed him.</p>
+
+<p>In its present shape the &quot;Mah&acirc;bh&acirc;rata&quot; contains some two hundred
+thousand verses. The style is forcible, often terse and nervous: the
+action is well sustained, and the whole effect produced is that of a
+poem written in commemoration of actual conflict between members of
+rival clans who lived somewhere southeast of the Punjab. In portrayal of
+character the Hindoo poem somewhat resembles its Grecian
+counterpart&mdash;the &quot;Iliad&quot;; the noble devotion and chivalric character of
+its chief hero, Arjuna, reminds us of Hector&mdash;and the wily, sinful
+Duryodhana, is a second Ulysses. The &quot;Mah&acirc;bh&acirc;rata&quot; was probably begun in
+the third or fourth century B.C., and completed soon after the beginning
+of the Christian era.</p>
+
+<p>The &quot;Bh&acirc;rata&quot; war is a war between rival cousins of the house of
+Bh&acirc;rata, a race of heroes mentioned in the Rig-veda collection.
+Duryodhana deprives his cousin Yudhisthira of his throne by inducing him
+to squander his fortune, kingdom, family, and self&mdash;and then banishes
+Yudhisthira and the latter's four brothers for twelve years. The
+gambling was conducted in an unfair manner, and the cousins feel that
+their banishment was the result of treachery, although pretended to be
+mercy in lieu of death. When the twelve years are over they collect
+armies of sympathizers, and on the Sacred Plain of the Kurus (the Holy
+Land of India) the great war is fought out. The good prevails,
+Duryodhana is slain, and Yudhisthira recovers his kingdom. This story is
+told so graphically that the &quot;Mah&acirc;bh&acirc;rata&quot; still has the charm that
+comes from plot and action, as well as that of poetic beauty.</p>
+
+<p>A concluding passage of this great poem says: &quot;The reading of this
+'Mah&acirc;bh&acirc;rata' destroys all sin and produces virtue, so much so that the
+pronunciation of a single shloka is sufficient to wipe away much guilt.
+It has bound human beings in a chain, of which one end is life and the
+other death. If a man reads the 'Mah&acirc;bh&acirc;rata' and has faith in its
+doctrines, he is free from all sin and ascends to heaven after his
+death.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>The present selection is the episode of Nala and Damayanti. It is one of
+the most charming of the &quot;Mah&acirc;bh&acirc;rata&quot; stories, and its Oriental flavor
+and delicacy have been well preserved by the translator, Sir Edwin
+Arnold.</p>
+
+<p>L.F.C.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style='width: 65%;' />
+<h2>THE MAH&Acirc;BH&Acirc;RATA</h2>
+<br />
+
+<a name='NALA_AND_DAMAYANTI_b'></a><h3>NALA AND DAMAYANTI</h3>
+
+<a name='ND_Part_I'></a><h4>Part I</h4>
+
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A prince there was, named Nala, Virasen's noble breed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Goodly to see, and virtuous; a tamer of the steed;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As Indra 'midst the gods, so he of kings was kingliest one,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sovereign of men, and splendid as the golden, glittering sun;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Pure, knowing scripture, gallant; ruling nobly Nishadh's lands;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Dice-loving, but a proud, true chief of her embattled bands;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By lovely ladies lauded; free, trained in self-control;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A shield and bow; a Manu on earth; a royal soul!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And in Vidarbha's city the Raja Bhima dwelled;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Save offspring, from his perfect bliss no blessing was withheld;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For offspring, many a pious rite full patiently he wrought,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Till Damana the Brahman unto his house was brought.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Him Bhima, ever reverent, did courteously entreat,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Within the Queen's pavilion led him, to rest and eat;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whereby that sage, grown grateful, gave her&mdash;for joy of joys&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A girl, the gem of girlhood, and three brave lusty boys&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Damana, Dama, D&acirc;nta, their names:&mdash;Damayanti she;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No daughter more delightful, no sons could goodlier be.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Stately and bright and beautiful did Damayanti grow;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No land there was which did not the Slender-waisted know;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A hundred slaves her fair form decked with robe and ornament&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like &#346;achi's self to serve her a hundred virgins bent;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And 'midst them Bhima's daughter, in peerless glory dight,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gleamed as the lightning glitters against the murk of night;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Having the eyes of Lakshmi, long-lidded, black, and bright&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nay&mdash;never Gods, nor Yakshas, nor mortal men among</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was one so rare and radiant e'er seen, or sued, or sung</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As she, the heart-consuming, in heaven itself desired.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Nala, too, of princes the Tiger-Prince, admired</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like Kama was; in beauty an embodied lord of love:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And ofttimes Nala praised they all other chiefs above</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In Damayanti's hearing; and oftentimes to him,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With worship and with wonder, her beauty they would limn;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So that, unmet, unknowing, unseen, in each for each</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A tender thought of longing grew up from seed of speech;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And love (thou son of Kunti!) those gentle hearts did reach.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Thus Nala&mdash;hardly bearing in his heart</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Such longing&mdash;wandered in his palace-woods,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And marked some water-birds, with painted plumes,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Disporting. One, by stealthy steps, he seized;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But the sky-traveller spake to Nala this:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Kill me not, Prince, and I will serve thee well.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For I, in Damayanti's ear, will say</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Such good of Nishadh's lord, that nevermore</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shall thought of man possess her, save of thee.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Thereat the Prince gladly gave liberty</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To his soft prisoner, and all the swans</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Flew, clanging, to Vidarbha&mdash;a bright flock&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Straight to Vidarbha, where the Princess walked;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And there, beneath her eyes, those winged ones</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lighted. She saw them sail to earth, and marked&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sitting amid her maids&mdash;their graceful forms;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While those for wantonness 'gan chase the swans,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which fluttered this and that way through the grove:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each girl with tripping feet her bird pursued,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Damayanti, laughing, followed hers;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Till&mdash;at the point to grasp&mdash;the flying prey</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Deftly eluding touch, spake as men speak,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Addressing Bhima's daughter:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 17em;'>&quot;Lady dear!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Loveliest Damayanti! Nala dwells</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In near Nishadha: oh, a noble Prince,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Not to be matched of men; an A&#347;win he,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For goodliness. Incomparable maid!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wert thou but wife to that surpassing chief,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rich would the fruit grow from such lordly birth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Such peerless beauty. Slender-waisted one,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gods, men, and Gandharvas have we beheld,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But never none among them like to him.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As thou art pearl of princesses, so he</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is crown of princes; happy would it fall,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One such perfection should another wed.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And when she heard that bird (O King of men!)</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Princess answered: &quot;Go, dear swan, and tell</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This same to Nala;&quot; and the egg-born said,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;I go&quot;&mdash;and flew; and told the Prince of all.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>But Damayanti, having heard the bird,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lived fancy-free no more; by Nala's side</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her soul dwelt, while she sat at home distraught,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Mournful and wan, sighing the hours away,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With eyes upcast, and passion-laden looks;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So that, eftsoons, her limbs failed, and her mind&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With love o'erweighted&mdash;found no rest in sleep,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No grace in company, no joy at feasts.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor night nor day brought peace; always she heaved</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sigh upon sigh, till all her maidens knew&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By glance and mien and moan&mdash;how changed she was,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her own sweet self no more. Then to the King</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They told how Damayanti loved the Prince.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which thing when Bhima from her maidens heard,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Deep pondering for his child what should be done,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And why the Princess was beside herself,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That lord of lands perceived his daughter grown,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And knew that for her high Swayamvara</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The time was come.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 11.5em;'>So, to the Rajas all</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The King sent word: &quot;Ye Lords of Earth, attend</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Damayanti the Swayamvara.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And when these learned of her Swayamvara,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Obeying Bhima, to his court they thronged&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Elephants, horses, cars&mdash;over the land</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In full files wending, bearing flags and wreaths</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of countless hues, with gallant companies</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of fighting men. And those high-hearted chiefs</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The strong-armed King welcomed with worship fair,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As fitted each, and led them to their seats.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Now at that hour there passed towards Indra's heaven,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thither from earth ascending, those twain saints&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The wise, the pure, the mighty-minded ones,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The self-restrained&mdash;Narad and Parvata.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The mansion of the Sovereign of the Gods</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In honor entered they; and he, the Lord</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Clouds, dread Indra, softly them salutes,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Inquiring of their weal, and of the world</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wherethrough their name was famous, how it fares.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Then Narad said: &quot;Well is it, Lord of Gods,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With us, and with our world; and well with those</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who rule the peoples, O thou King in Heaven!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>But He that slew the Demons spake again:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;The princes of the earth, just-minded, brave,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Those who, in battle fearing not to fall,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>See death on the descending blade, and charge</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Full front against it, turning not their face&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Theirs is this realm eternal, as to me</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The cow of plenty, K&acirc;madhuk, belongs.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where be my Kshatriya warriors? Wherefore now</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>See I none coming of those slaughtered lords,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Chiefs of mankind, our always honored guests?&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And unto Indra Narad gave reply:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;King of the Air! no wars are waged below;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>None fall in fight, to enter here. The Lord</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of high Vidarbha hath a daughter, famed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For loveliness beyond all earthly maids,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Princess Damayanti, far-renowned.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of her, dread Sakra! the Swayamvara</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shall soon befall, and thither now repair</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The kings and princes of all lands, to woo&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each for himself&mdash;this pearl of womanhood.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For oh, thou Slayer of the Demons, all</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Desire the maid.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 10.5em;'>Drew round, while Narad spake,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Masters, th'Immortals, pressing in</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With Agni and the Greatest, near the throne,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To listen to the speech of Narada;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whom having heard, all cried delightedly,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;We, too, will go.&quot; Thereupon those high gods,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With chariots, and with heavenly retinues,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sped to Vidarbha, where the kings were met.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Nala, knowing of this kingly tryst,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Went thither joyous, heart-full with the thought</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Damayanti.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 9em;'>Thus it chanced the gods</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Beheld the Prince wending along his road,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Goodly of mien, as is the Lord of Love.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The world's Protectors saw him, like a sun</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For splendor; and, in very wonder, paused</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Some time irresolute, so fair he was;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then in mid-sky their golden chariots stayed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And through the clouds descending called to him:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Abo! Nala of Nishadha! Noblest Prince,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Be herald for us; bear our message now.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>&quot;Yea!&quot; Nala made reply, &quot;this will I do&quot;&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And then&mdash;palm unto palm in reverence pressed&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Asked: &quot;Shining Ones, who are ye? Unto whom,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And what words bearing, will ye that I go?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Deign to instruct me what it is ye bid.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus the Prince spake, and Indra answered him:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Thou seest th'immortal gods. Indra am I,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And this is Agni, and the other here,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Varuna, Lord of Waters; and beyond,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yama, the King of Death, who parteth souls</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From mortal frames. To Damayanti go;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Tell our approach. Say this: 'The world's dread lords,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wishful to see thee, come; desiring thee&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Indra, Varuna, Agni, Yama, all.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Choose of these powers to which thou wilt be given.'&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But Nala, hearing that, joined palms again,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And cried: &quot;Ah, send me not, with one accord</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For this, most mighty Gods! How should a man</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sue for another, being suitor too?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How bear such errand? Have compassion, Gods!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Then spake they: &quot;Yet thou saidst, 'This shall I do,'</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nishadha's Prince! and wilt thou do it not,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Forswearing faith? Nay, but depart, and soon!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>So bid, but lingering yet again, he said:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Well guarded are the gates; how shall I find</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Speech with her?&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 11em;'>&quot;Thou shalt find,&quot; Indra replied.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, lo! upon that word Nala was brought</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Damayanti's chamber. There he saw</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vidarbha's glory, sitting 'mid her maids,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In majesty and grace surpassing all;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So exquisite, so delicate of form,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Waist so fine-turned, such limbs, such lighted eyes,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The moon hath meaner radiance than she.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Love at the sight of that soft smiling face</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sprang to full passion, while he stood and gazed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yet, faith and duty urging, he restrained</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His beating heart; but when those beauteous maids</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Spied Nala, from their cushions they uprose,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Startled to see a man, yet startled more</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Because he showed so heavenly bright and fair.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In wondering pleasure each saluted him,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Uttering no sound, but murmuring to themselves:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Aho! the grace of him: aho! the brilliance;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Aho! what glorious strength lives in his limbs!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What is he? Is he God, Gandharva, Yaksha?&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But this unspoken, for they dared not breathe</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One syllable, all standing shyly there</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To see him, and to see his youth so sweet.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yet, softly glancing back to his soft glance,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Princess, presently, with fluttering breath,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Accosted Nala, saying: &quot;Fairest Prince,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who by thy faultless form hath filled my heart</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With sudden joy, coming as come the gods,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unstayed, I crave to know thee, who thou art;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How didst thou enter? how wert thou unseen?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Our palace is close-guarded, and the King</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hath issued mandates stern.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 16em;'>Tenderly spake</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Prince, replying to those tender words:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Most lovely! I am Nala. I am come</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A herald of the gods unto thee here.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The gods desire thee, the immortal Four&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Indra, Varuna, Yama, Agni. Choose,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>O Brightest! one from these to be thy lord.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By their help is it I have entered in</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unseen; none could behold me at thy gates,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor stay me, passing; and to speak their will</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They sent me, fairest one and best. Do thou,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Knowing the message, judge as seemeth well.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>She bowed her head, hearing the great gods named,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And then, divinely smiling, said to him:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Pledge thyself faithfully to me, and I</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Will seek, O Raja, only how to pay</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That debt with all I am, with all I have;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For I and mine are thine&mdash;in full trust thine.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Make me that promise, Prince. Thy gentle name&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sung by the swan&mdash;first set my thoughts afire;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And for thy sake&mdash;only for thee&mdash;sweet Lord,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The kings were summoned hither. If, alas!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fair Prince, thou dost reject my sudden love,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So proffered, then must poison, flame, or flood,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or knitted cord, be my sad remedy.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>So spake Vidarbha's Pride; and Nala said:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;With gods so waiting&mdash;with the world's dread lords</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hastening to woo, canst thou desire a man?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bethink! I, unto these, that make and mar,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>These all-wise ones, almighty, am like dust</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Under their feet: lift thy heart to the height</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of what I bring. If mortal man offend</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The most high gods, death is what springs of it.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Spare me to live, thou faultless lady! Choose</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which of these excellent great gods thou wilt;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wear the unstained robes! bear on thy brows</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The wreaths which never fade, of heavenly blooms!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Be, as thou mayest, a goddess, and enjoy</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Godlike delights! Him who enfolds the earth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Creating and consuming, Brightest Power,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hut&acirc;sa, Eater of the Sacrifice,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What woman would not take? Or him whose rod</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Herds all the generations forward still</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On virtue's path, Red Yama, King of Death,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What woman would affront? Or him, the all-good,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All-wise destroyer of the Demons, first</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In heaven, Mahendra&mdash;who of womankind</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is there that would not wed? Or, if thy mind</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Incline, doubt not to choose Varuna; he</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is of these world-protectors. From a heart</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Full friendly cometh what I tell thee now.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Unto Nishadha's Prince the maid replied&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Tears of distress dimming her lustrous eyes&mdash;-</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Humbly I reverence these mighty gods;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But thee I choose, and thee I take for lord;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And this I vow!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 10.5em;'>With folded palms she stood,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And trembling lips, while his faint answer fell:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Sent on such embassy, how shall I dare</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Speak, sweetest Princess, for myself to thee?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bound by my promise for the gods to sue,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How can I be a suitor for myself?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Silence is here my duty; afterwards,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If I shall come, in mine own name I'll come,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Mine own cause pleading. Ah, might that so be!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Checking her tears, Damayanti sadly smiled,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And said full soft: &quot;One way of hope I see,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A blameless way, O Lord of men! wherefrom</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No fault shall rise, nor any danger fall.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou also, Prince, with Indra and these gods,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Must enter in where my Swayamvara</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is held; then I, in presence of those gods,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Will choose thee, dearest, for my lord; and so</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Blame shall not light on thee,&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 18em;'>With which sweet words</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Soft in his ears, Nishadha straight returned</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>There where the gods were gathered, waiting him;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whom the world's masters, on his way, perceived,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, spying, questioned, asking for his news:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Saw'st thou her, Prince? Didst see the sweet-lipped one?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What spake she of us? Tell us true; tell all!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Quoth Nala: &quot;By your worshipful behest</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sent to her house, the great gates entered I,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Though the gray porters watched; but none might spy</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My entering, by your power, O radiant Ones,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Saving the Raja's daughter; her I saw</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Amid her maidens, and by them was seen.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On me with much amazement they did gaze</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whilst I your high Divinities extolled.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But she that hath the lovely face, with mind</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Set upon me, hath chosen me, ye Gods.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For thus she spake, my Princess: 'Let them come,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And come thou, like a lordly tiger, too,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unto the place of my Swayamvara;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>There will I choose thee in their presence, Prince,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To be my lord; and so there will not fall</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Blame, thou strong-armed! to thee,' This she did say</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Even as I tell it; and what shall be next,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To will is yours, O ye immortal Ones!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Soon, when the moon was good, and day and hour</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Were found propitious, Bhima, King of men,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Summoned the chiefs to the Swayamvara;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upon which message all those eager lords</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For love of Damayanti hastened there.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Glorious with gilded pillars was the court,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whereto a gate-house opened, and thereby</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Into the square, like lions from the hills,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Paced the proud guests; and there their seats they took,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each in his rank, the masters of the lands,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With crowns of fragrant blossoms garlanded,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And polished jewels swinging in their ears.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of some the thews, knitted and rough, stood forth</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like iron maces; some had slender limbs,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sleek and fine-turned like the five-headed snake;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lords with long-flowing hair; glittering lords;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>High-nosed, and eagle-eyed, and heavy-browed;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The faces of those kings shone in a ring</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As shine at night the stars; and that great square</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As thronged with Rajas was as Naga-land</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is full of serpents; thick with warlike chiefs</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As mountain-caves with panthers. Unto these</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Entered, in matchless majesty of form,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Princess Damayanti. As she came,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The glory of her ravished eyes and hearts,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So that the gaze of all those haughty kings,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fastening upon her loveliness, grew fixed&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Not moving save with her&mdash;step after step</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Onward and always following the maid.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>But while the styles and dignities of all</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Were cried aloud (O son of Bh&acirc;rat!), lo!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Princess marked five of that throng alike</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In form and garb and visage. There they stood,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each from the next undifferenced, but each</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nala's own self;&mdash;yet which might Nala be</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In nowise could that doubting maid descry.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who took her eye seemed Nala while she gazed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Until she looked upon his like; and so</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Pondered the lovely lady, sore-perplexed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thinking, &quot;How shall I tell which be the gods,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And which is noble Nala?&quot; Deep-distressed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And meditative waxed she, musing hard</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What those signs were, delivered us of old,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whereby gods may be known: &quot;Of all those signs</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Taught by our elders, lo! I see not one</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where stand yon five.&quot; So murmured she, and turned</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Over and over every mark she knew.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>At last, resolved to make the gods themselves</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her help at need, with reverent air and voice</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Humbly saluted she those heavenly ones,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And with joined palms and trembling accents spake:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;As, when I heard the swans, I chose my Prince,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By that sincerity I call ye, Gods,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To show my Love to me and make me know!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As in my heart and soul and speech I stand</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>True to my choice, by that sincerity</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I call the all-knowing gods to make me know!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As the high gods created Nishadha's chief</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To be my lord, by their sincerity</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I bid them show themselves, and make me know!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As my vow, sealed to him, must be maintained</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For his name, and for mine, I call the gods</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By such sincerity to make me know!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Let them appear, the masters of the world&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The high gods&mdash;each one in his proper shape,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That I may see Nishadha's chief, my choice,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whom minstrels praise, and Damayanti loves.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Hearing that earnest speech&mdash;so passion-fraught,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So full of truth, of strong resolve, of love,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of singleness of soul and constancy&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Even as she spake, the gods disclosed themselves.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By well-seen signs the effulgent Ones she knew.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shadowless stood they, with unwinking eyes,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And skins which never moist with sweat; their feet</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Light-gliding o'er the ground, not touching it;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The unfading blossoms on their brows not soiled</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By earthly dust, but ever fair and fresh.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whilst, by their side, garbed so and visaged so,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But doubled by his shadow, stained with dust,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The flower-cups wiltering in his wreath, his skin</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Pearly with sweat, his feet upon the earth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And eyes a-wink, stood Nala. One by one</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Glanced she on those divinities, then bent</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her gaze upon the Prince, and, joyous, said:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;I know thee, and I name my rightful lord,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Taking Nishadha's chief.&quot; Therewith she drew</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Modestly nigh, and held him by the cloth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With large eyes beaming love, and round his neck</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hung the bright chaplet, love's delicious crown;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So choosing him&mdash;him only&mdash;whom she named</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Before the face of all to be her lord.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Oh, then brake forth from all those suitors proud,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Ha!&quot; and &quot;Aho!&quot; But from the gods and saints,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Sadhu! well done! well done!&quot; And all admired</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The happy Prince, praising the grace of him;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While Virasena's son, delightedly,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Spake to the slender-waisted these fond words:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Fair Princess! since, before all gods and men,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou makest me thy choice, right glad am I</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of this thy mind, and true lord will I be.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For so long, loveliest, as my breath endures,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thine am I! Thus I plight my troth to thee.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So, with joined palms, unto that beauteous maid</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His gentle faith he pledged, rejoicing her;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, hand in hand, radiant with mutual love,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Before great Agni and the gods they passed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The world's protectors worshipping.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 19.5em;'>Then those,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The lords of life, the powerful Ones, bestowed&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Being well-pleased&mdash;on Nala, chosen so,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Eight noble boons. The boon which Indra gave</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was grace, at times of sacrifice, to see</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The visible god approach, with step divine;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Agni's boon was this, that he would come</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whenever Nala called&mdash;for everywhere</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hut&acirc;sa shineth, and all worlds are his;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yama gave skill in cookery, steadfastness</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In virtue; and Varuna, King of Floods,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bade all the waters ripple at his call.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>These boons the high gods doubled by the gift</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of bright wreaths wove with magic blooms of heaven;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And those bestowed, ascended to their seats.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Also with wonder and with joy returned</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Rajas and the Maharajas all,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Full of the marriage-feast; for Bhima made,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In pride and pleasure, stately nuptials;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So Damayanti and the Prince were wed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Then, having tarried as is wont, that lord&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nishadha's chief&mdash;took the King's leave, and went</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unto his city, bringing home with him</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His jewel of all womanhood, with whom</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Blissful he lived, as lives by &#346;achi's side</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The slayer of the Demons. Like a sun</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shone Nala on his throne, ruling his folk</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In strength and virtue, guardian of his state.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Also the A&#347;wamedha Rite he made</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Greatest of rites, the Offering of the Horse,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As did Yay&acirc;ti; and all other acts</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of worship; and to sages gave rich gifts.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Many dear days of much delicious love,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In pleasant gardens and in shadowy groves,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Passed they together, sojourning like gods.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Damayanti bore unto her lord</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A boy named Indrasen, and next, a girl</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Named Indrasena. So in happiness</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The good Prince governed, seeing all his lands</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wealthy and well, in piety and peace.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Now at the choosing of Nishadha's chief</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By Bhima's daughter, when those lords of life&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The effulgent gods&mdash;departed, Dwapara</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They saw with Kali, coming. Indra said&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Demon-slayer&mdash;spying these approach:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Whither, with Dwapara, goest thou to-day,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>O Kali?&quot; And the sombre Shade replied:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;To Damayanti's high Swayamvara</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I go, to make her mine, since she hath passed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Into my heart.&quot; But Indra, laughing, said:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Ended is that Swayamvara; for she</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hath taken Raja Nala for her lord,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Before us all,&quot; But Kali, hearing this,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Breaks into wrath&mdash;while he stood worshipping</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That band divine&mdash;and furiously cries:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;If she hath set a man above the gods,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To wed with him, for such sin let there fall</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Doom, rightful, swift, and terrible, on her!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Nay,&quot; answered unto him those heavenly ones,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;But Damayanti chose with our good-will;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And what maid but would choose so fair a prince,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Seeing he hath all qualities, and knows</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Virtue, and rightly practises the vows,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And reads the four great Vedas, and, what's next,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Holy Stories, whilst, perpetually,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The gods are honored in his house with gifts?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No hurt he does, kind to all living things;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>True of word is he, faithful, liberal, just;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Steadfast and patient, temperate and pure;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A king of men is Nala, like the gods.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He that would curse a prince of such a mould,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou foolish Kali, lays upon himself</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A sin to crush himself; the curse comes back</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And sinks him in the bottomless vast gulf</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Narak.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 7em;'>Thus the gods to Kali spake,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And mounted heavenward; whereupon that Shade,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Frowning, to Dwapara burst forth: &quot;My rage</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Beareth no curb. Henceforth in Nala I</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Will dwell; his kingdom I will make to fall;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His bliss with Damayanti I will mar;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thou within the dice shalt enter straight,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And help me, Dwapara! to drag him down,&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Into which compact entering, those repaired&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Kali and Dwapara&mdash;to Nala's house,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And haunted in Nishadha, where he ruled,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Seeking occasion 'gainst the blameless Prince.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Long watched they; twelve years rolled ere Kali saw</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The fateful fault arrive; Nishadha's Lord,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Easing himself, and sprinkling hands and lips</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With purifying water, passed to prayer,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His feet unwashed, offending. Kali straight</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Possessed the heedless Raja, entering him.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>That hour there sat with Nala, Pushkara</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His brother; and the evil spirit hissed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Into the ear of Pushkara: &quot;Ehi!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Arise, and challenge Nala at the dice.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Throw with the Prince! it may be thou shalt win</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>(Luck helping thee, and I) Nishadha's throne,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Town, treasures, palace&mdash;thou mayest gain them all.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Pushkara, hearing Kali's evil voice,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Made near to Nala, with the dice in hand</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>(A great piece for the &quot;Bull,&quot; and little ones</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For &quot;Cows,&quot; and Kali hiding in the Bull).</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So Pushkara came to Nala's side and said:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Play with me, brother, at the 'Cows and Bull';&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, being put off, cried mockingly, &quot;Nay, play!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shaming the Prince, whose spirit chafed to leave</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A gage unfaced; but when Vidarbha's gem,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Princess, heard that challenge, Nala rose:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Yea, Pushkara, I will play!&quot; fiercely he said;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And to the game addressed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 15em;'>His gems he lost,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Armlets and belt and necklet; next the gold</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of the palace and its vessels; then the cars</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yoked with swift steeds; and last, the royal robes:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For, cast by cast, the dice against him fell,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bewitched by Kali; and, cast after cast,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The passion of the dice kept hold on him,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Until not one of all his faithfullest</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Could stay the madman's hand and gamester's heart</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of who was named &quot;Subduer of his Foes.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The townsmen gathered with the ministers:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Into that palace gate they thronged (my King!)</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To see their lord, if so they might abate</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This sickness of his soul. The charioteer,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Forth standing from their midst, low worshipping,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Spake thus to Damayanti: &quot;Great Princess,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Before thy door all the grieved city sits.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Say to our lord for us, 'Thy folk are here;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They mourn that evil fortunes hold their liege,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who was so high and just,'&quot; Then she, deject,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Passed in, and to Nishadha's ruler said,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her soft voice broken, and her bright eyes dimmed:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Raja, the people of thy town are here;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Before our gates they gather, citizens</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And counsellors, desiring speech with thee;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In lealty they come. Wilt thou be pleased</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>We open to them? Wilt thou?&quot; So she asked</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Again and yet again; but not one word</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To that sad lady with the lovely brows</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Did Nala answer, wholly swallowed up</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Kali and the gaming; so that those&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The citizens and counsellors&mdash;cried out,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Our lord is changed! He is not Nala now!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And home returned, ashamed and sorrowful;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whilst ceaselessly endured that foolish play</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Moon after moon&mdash;the Prince the loser still.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Then Damayanti, seeing so estranged</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her lord, the praised in song, the chief of men,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Watching, all self-possessed, his fantasy,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And how the gaming held him; sad, and 'feared,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The heavy fortunes pondering of her Prince;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hating the fault, but to the offender kind;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And fearing Nala should be stripped of all,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This thing devised: Vrihatsen&acirc; she called&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her foster-nurse and faithful ministrant&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>True, skilful at all service, soft of speech,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Kind-hearted; and she said, &quot;Vrihatsen&acirc;,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Go call the ministers to council now,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As though 'twere Nala bade; and make them count</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What store is gone of treasure, what abides.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So went Vrihatsen&acirc;, and summoned those;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And when they knew all things, as from the Prince,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Truly we, too, shall perish!&quot; cried they then;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And all to Nala went, and all the town,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A second time assembling, thronged his gates:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which Bhima's daughter told; but not one word</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Answered the Prince. And when she saw her lord</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Put by her plea, utterly slighting it,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Back to her chamber, full of shame, she goes,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And there still hears the dice are falling ill;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Still hears of Nala daily losing more;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So that again unto her nurse she spake:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Send to Varshneya, good Vrihatsen&acirc;;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Say to the charioteer&mdash;in Nala's name&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'A great thing is to do. Come thou!'&quot; And this&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So soon as Damayanti uttered it&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vrihatsen&acirc;, by faithful servants, told</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unto the son of Vrishni, who, being come</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In fitting time and place, heard the sweet Queen</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In mournful music speak these wistful words:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Thou knowest how thy Raja trusted thee;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Now he hath fall'n on evil; succor him!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The more that Pushkara conquers in the play,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The wilder rage of gaming takes thy lord&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The more for Pushkara the dice light well,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>More contrary they happen to the Prince:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor heeds he, as were meet, kindred or friends;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nay, of myself he putteth by the prayer</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unanswered, being bewitched; for well I deem</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This is not noble-minded Nala's sin,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But some ill spell possesseth him to shut</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His ears to me. Thou, therefore, charioteer!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Our refuge be; do what I shall command;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My heart is dark with fear. Yea, it may fall</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Our lord will perish. Wherefore, harnessing</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His chosen steeds, which fly as swift as thought.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Take these our children in the chariot</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And drive to Kundina, delivering there</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unto my kin the little ones, and car,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And horses. Afterwards abide thou there,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or otherwhere depart.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 13.5em;'>Varshneya heard</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The words of Damayanti, and forthwith</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In Nala's council-hall recounted them,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The chief men being present; who, thus met,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And long debating, gave him leave to go.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So with that royal pair to Bhima's town</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Drove he, and at Vidarbha rendered up,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Together with the swift steeds and the car,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That sweet maid Indrasena, and the Prince</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Indrasen, and made reverence to the King,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Saddened for sake of Nala. Afterwards</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Taking his leave, unto Ayodhy&acirc;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Varshneya went, exceeding sorrowful,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And with King Rituparna (O my Prince!)</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Took service as a charioteer.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 17em;'>These gone&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The praised-of-poets, Nala, still played on,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Till Pushkara his kingdom's wealth had won,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And whatso was to lose beside. Thereat</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With scornful laugh mocked he that beggared Prince,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Saying, &quot;One other throw; once more!&mdash;Yet sooth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What canst thou stake? Nothing is left for thee</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Save Damayanti; all the rest is mine.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Play we for Damayanti, if thou wilt.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But hearing this from Pushkara, the Prince</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So in his heart by grief and shame was torn,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No word he uttered&mdash;only glared in wrath</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upon his mocker, upon Pushkara.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then, his rich robes and jewels stripping off,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Uncovered, with one cloth, 'mid waiting friends</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sorrowful passed he forth, his great state gone;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Princess, with one garment, following him,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Piteous to see. And there without the gates</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Three nights they lay&mdash;Nashadha's King and Queen.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upon the fourth day Pushkara proclaimed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Throughout the city, &quot;Whoso yieldeth help</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Nala, dieth! Let my will be known!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>So, for this bitter word of Pushkara's power</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>(O Yudhisthir!) the townsmen rendered not</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Service nor love, but left them outcast there,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unhelped, whom all the city should have helped.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yet three nights longer tarried he, his drink</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The common pool, his meat such fruits and roots</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As miserable hunger plucks from earth:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then fled they from those walls, the Prince going first,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Princess following.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 14em;'>After grievous days,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Pinched ever with sharp famine, Nala saw</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A flock of gold-winged birds lighting anigh,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And to himself the famished Raja said:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Lo! here is food; this day we shall have store;&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then lightly cast his cloth and covered them.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But these, fluttering aloft, bore with them there</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nala's one cloth; and, hovering overhead,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Uttered sharp-stinging words, reviling him</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Even as he stood, naked to all the airs,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Downcast and desperate: &quot;Thou brain-sick Prince!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>We are the dice; we come to ravish hence</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy last poor cloth; we were not well content</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou shouldst depart owning a garment still.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And when he saw the dice take wings and fly,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Leaving him bare, to Damayanti spake</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This melancholy Prince: &quot;O Blameless One,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They by whose malice I am driven forth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Finding no sustenance, sad, famine-gaunt&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They whose decree forbade Nishadha's folk</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Should succor me, their Raja&mdash;these have come&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Demon and dice&mdash;and like to winged birds</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Have borne away my cloth. To such shame fall'n,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Such utmost woe, wretched, demented&mdash;I</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy lord am still, and counsel thee for good.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Attend! Hence be there many roads which go</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Southwards: some pass Avanti's walls, and some</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Skirt Rikshavan, the forest of the bears;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This wends to Vindhya's lofty peaks, and this</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To the green banks where quick Payoshni runs</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Seaward, between her hermitages, rich</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In fruits and roots; and yon path leadeth thee</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unto Vidarbha; that to Kosala,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And therefrom southward&mdash;southward&mdash;far away.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>So spake he to the Princess wistfully,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Between his words pointing along the paths,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which she should take (O King!). But Bhima's child</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Made answer, bowed with grief, her soft voice choked</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With sobs, these piteous accents uttering:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>&quot;My heart beats quick; my body's force is gone,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thinking, dear Prince, on this which thou hast said,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Pointing along the paths. What! robbed of realm,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Stripped of thy wealth, bare, famished, parched with thirst,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus shall I leave thee in the untrodden wood?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ah, no! While thou dost muse on dear days fled,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hungry and weeping, I in this wild waste</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Will charm thy griefs away, solacing thee.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The wisest doctors say, 'In every woe</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No better physic is than wifely love,'</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, Nala, I will make it true to thee.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>&quot;Thou mak'st it true,&quot; he said; &quot;thou sayest well,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sweet Damayanti; neither is there friend</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To sad men given better than a wife.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I had not thought to leave thee, foolish Love!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Why didst thou fear? Alas, 't is from myself</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That I would fly&mdash;not thee, thou Faultless One!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>&quot;Yet, if,&quot; the Princess answered, &quot;Maharaja!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou hadst no thought to leave me, why by thee</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was the way pointed to Vidarbha's walls?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I know thou wouldst not quit me, noblest Lord,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Being thyself, but only if thy mind</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Were sore distraught; and see, thou gazest still</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Along the southward road, my dread thereby</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Increasing, thou that wert as are the gods!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If it be thy fixed thought, 'Twere best she went</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unto her people'&mdash;be it so; I go;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But hand in hand with thee. Thus let us fare</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unto Vidarbha, where the King, my sire,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Will greet thee well, and honor thee; and we</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Happy and safe within his gates shall dwell.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>&quot;As is thy father's kingdom,&quot; Nala said,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;So, once, was mine. Be sure, whatever betide,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Never will I go thither! How, in sooth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Should I, who came there glorious, gladdening thee,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Creep back, thy shame and scorn, disconsolate?&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>So to sweet Damayanti spake the Prince,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Beguiling her, whom now one cloth scarce clad&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For but one garb they shared; and thus they strayed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hither and thither, faint for meat and drink,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Until a little hut they spied; and there,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nishadha's monarch, entering, sat him down</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On the bare ground, the Princess by his side&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vidarbha's glory, wearing that scant cloth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Without a mat, soiled by the dust and mire.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>At Damayanti's side he sank asleep,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Outworn; and beauteous Damayanti slept,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Spent with strange trials&mdash;- she so gently reared,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So soft and holy. But while slumbering thus,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No peaceful rest knew Nala. Trouble-tossed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He woke, forever thinking of his realm</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lost, lieges estranged, and all the griefs</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of that wild wood. These on his heart came back,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, &quot;What if I shall do it? What, again,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If I shall do it not?&quot; So murmured he.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Would death be better, or to leave my Love?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For my sake she endures this woe, my fate</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Too fondly sharing; freed from me, her steps</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Would turn unto her people. At my side,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sure suffering is her portion; but apart,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>It might be she would somewhere comfort find.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Thus with himself debating o'er and o'er,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Prince resolves abandonment were best.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;For how,&quot; saith he, &quot;should any in the wood</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Harm her, so radiant in her grace, so good,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So noble, virtuous, faithful, famous, pure?&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus mused his miserable mind, seduced</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By Kali's cursed mischiefs to betray</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His sleeping wife. Then, seeing his loin-cloth gone,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Damayanti clad, he drew anigh,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thinking to take of hers, and muttering,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;May I not rend one fold, and she not know?&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So meditating, round the cabin crept</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Prince Nala, feeling up and down its walls;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, presently, within the purlieus found</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A naked knife, keen-tempered; therewithal</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shred he away a piece, and bound it on;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then made with desperate steps to seek the waste,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Leaving the Princess sleeping; but, anon,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Turns back again in changeful mood and glides</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Into the hut, and, gazing wistfully</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On slumbering Damayanti, moans with tears:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Ah, Sweetheart! whom nor wind nor sun before</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hath ever rudely touched; thou to be couched</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In this poor hut, its floor thy bed, and I,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy lord, deserting thee, stealing from thee</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy last robe! O my Love with the bright smile,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My slender-waisted Queen! Will she not wake</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To madness? Yea, and when she wanders lone</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In the dark wood, haunted with beasts and snakes,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How will it fare with Bhima's tender child,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The bright and peerless? O my life, my wife!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>May the great sun, may the Eight Powers of air,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Rudras, Maruts, and the A&#347;wins twain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Guard thee, thou true and dear one, on thy way!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>So to his sleeping Queen&mdash;on all the earth</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unmatched for beauty&mdash;spake he piteously;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then breaks away once more, by Kali driven.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But yet another and another time</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Stole back into the hut, for one last gaze&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That way by Kali dragged, this way by love.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Two hearts he had&mdash;the trouble-stricken Prince&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One beating &quot;Go,&quot; one throbbing &quot;Stay&quot;; and thus</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Backwards and forwards swung his mind between,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Till, mastered by the sorrow and the spell,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Frantic flies Nala, leaving there alone</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That tender-sleeper, sighing as she slept.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He flies&mdash;the soulless prey of Kali flies;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Still, while he hurries through the forest drear,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thinking upon that sweet face he hath left.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Far distant (King!) was Nala, when, refreshed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The slender-waisted wakened, shuddering</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>At the wood's silence; but when, seeking him,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She found no Nala, sudden anguish seized</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her frightened heart, and, lifting high her voice,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Loud cries she: &quot;Maharaja! Nishadha's Prince!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ha, Lord! ha, Maharaja! ha, Master! why</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hast thou abandoned me? Now am I lost,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Am doomed, undone, left in this lonesome gloom.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wert thou not named, O Nala, true and just?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yet art thou such, to quit me while I slept?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And hast thou so forsaken me, thy wife&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thine own fond wife&mdash;who never wrought thee wrong</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When by all others wrong was wrought on thee?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Mak'st thou it good to me, now, Lord of men,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That love which long ago before the gods</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou didst proclaim? Alas! Death will not come,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Except at his appointed time to men,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And therefore for a little I shall live,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whom thou hast lived to leave. Nay, 't is a jest!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ah, Truant, Runaway, enough thou play'st!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Come forth, my Lord!&mdash;I am afraid! Come forth!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Linger not, for I see&mdash;I spy thee there;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou art within yon thicket! Why not speak</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One word, Nishadha? Nala, cruel Prince!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou know'st me, lone, and comest not to calm</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My terrors, and be with me in my need.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Art gone indeed? Then I'll not mourn myself,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For whatso may befall me; I must think</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How desolate thou art, and weep for thee.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What wilt thou do, thirsty and hungry, spent</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With wandering, when, at nightfall, 'mid the trees</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou hast me not, sweet Prince, to comfort thee?&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Thereat, distracted by her bitter fears,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like one whose heart is fire, forward and back</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She runs, hither and thither, weeping, wild.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One while she sinks to earth, one while she springs</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Quick to her feet; now utterly overcome</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By fear and fasting, now by grief driven mad,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wailing and sobbing; till anon, with moans</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And broken sighs and tears, Bhima's fair child,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The ever-faithful wife, speaks thus again:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;By whomsoever's spell this harm hath fall'n</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On Nishadha's Lord, I pray that evil one</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>May bear a bitterer plague than Nala doth!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To him, whoever set my guileless Prince</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On these ill deeds, I pray some direr might</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>May bring far darker days, and life to live</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>More miserable still!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 13em;'>Thus, woe-begone,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Mourned that great-hearted wife her vanished lord,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Seeking him ever in the gloomy shades,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By wild beasts haunted. Roaming everywhere,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like one possessed, frantic, disconsolate,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Went Bhima's daughter. &quot;Ha, ha! Maharaja!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So crying runs she, so in every place</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is heard her ceaseless wail, as when is heard</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The fish-hawk's cry, which screams, and circling screams,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And will not stint complaining.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 18em;'>Suddenly,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Straying too near his den, a serpent's coils</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Seized Bhima's daughter. A prodigious snake,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Glittering and strong, and furious for food,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Knitted about the Princess. She, o'erwhelmed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With horror, and the cold enfolding death,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Spends her last breaths in pitiful laments</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For Nala, not herself. &quot;Ah, Prince!&quot; she cried,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;That would have saved me, who must perish now,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Seized in the lone wood by this hideous snake,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Why art thou not beside me? What will be</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy thought, Nishadha! me remembering</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In days to come, when, from the curse set free,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou hast thy noble mind again, thyself,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy wealth&mdash;all save thy wife? Then thou'lt be sad,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Be weary, wilt need food and drink; but I</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shall minister no longer. Who will tend</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My Love, my Lord, my Lion among kings,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My blameless Nala&mdash;Damayanti dead?&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>That hour a hunter, roving through the brake,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Heard her bewailing, and with quickened steps</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Made nigh, and, spying a woman, almond-eyed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lovely, forlorn, by that fell monster knit,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He ran, and, as he came, with keen shaft clove,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Through gaping mouth and crown, th'unwitting worm,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Slaying it. Then the woodman from its folds</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Freed her, and laved the snake's slime from her limbs</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With water of the pool, comforting her</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And giving food; and afterwards (my King!)</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Inquiry made: &quot;What doest, in this wood,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou with the fawn's eyes? And how earnest thou,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My mistress, to such pit of misery?&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And Damayanti, spoken fair by him,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Recounted all which had befallen her.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>But, gazing on her graces, scantly clad</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With half a cloth, those smooth, full sides, those breasts</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Beauteously swelling, form of faultless mould,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sweet youthful face, fair as the moon at full,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And dark orbs, by long curving lashes swept;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hearing her tender sighs and honeyed speech,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hunter fell to hot desire; he dared</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Essay to woo, with whispered words at first,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And next by amorous approach, the Queen;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who, presently perceiving what he would,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And all that baseness of him&mdash;being so pure,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So chaste, and faithful&mdash;like a blazing torch</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Took fire of scorn and anger 'gainst the man,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her true soul burning at him, till the wretch,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wicked in heart, but impotent of will,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Glared on her, splendidly invincible</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In weakness, loftily defying wrong,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A living flame of lighted chastity.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She then&mdash;albeit so desolate, so lone,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Abandoned by her lord, stripped of her state&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like a proud princess stormed, flinging away</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All terms of supplication, cursing him</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With wrath which scorched: &quot;If I am clean in heart</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And true in thought unto Nishadha's King,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then mayest thou, vile pursuer of the beasts,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sink to the earth, stone dead!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 18em;'>While she did speak,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hunter breathless fell to earth, stone dead,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As falls a tree-trunk blasted by the bolt.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>That ravisher destroyed, the lotus-eyed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fared forward, threading still the fearful wood,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lonely and dim, with trill of jhillikas<a name="FNanchor22"></a><a href="#Footnote_22"><sup>[22]</sup></a></span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Resounding, and fierce noise of many beasts</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Laired in its shade, lions and leopards, deer,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Close-hiding tigers, sullen bisons, wolves,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And shaggy bears. Also the glades of it</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Were filled with fowl which crept, or flew, and cried.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A home for savage men and murderers,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thick with a world of trees, whereof was sal,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sharp-seeded, weeping gum; knotted bambus,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Dhavas with twisted roots; smooth aswatthas,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Large-leaved, and creeping through the cloven rocks;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Tindukas, iron-fibred, dark of grain;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ingudas, yielding oil; and kinsukas,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With scarlet flowerets flaming. Thronging these</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Were arjuns and arishta-clumps, which bear</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The scented purple clusters; syandans,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And tall silk-cotton trees, and mango-belts</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With silvery spears; and wild rose-apple, blent</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Mid lodhra-tufts and khadirs, interknit</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By clinging rattans, climbing everywhere</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From stem to stem. Therewith were intermixed&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Round pools where rocked the lotus&mdash;&acirc;malaks,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Plakshas with fluted leaves, kadambas sweet,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Udumbaras; and, on the jungle-edge,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Tangles of reed and jujube, whence there rose</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bel-trees and nyagrodhas, dropping roots</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Down from the air; broad-leaved priy&acirc;las, palms</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And date-trees, and the gold myrobalan,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With copper-leaved vibh&icirc;tikas. All these</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Crowded the wood; and many a crag it held,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With precious ore of metals interveined;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And many a creeper-covered cave wherein</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The spoken word rolled round; and many a cleft</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where the thick stems were like a wall to see;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And many a winding stream and reedy jheel,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And glassy lakelet, where the woodland beasts</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In free peace gathered.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 14em;'>Wandering onward thus,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Princess saw far-gliding forms of dread&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Pis&acirc;chas, Rakshasas, ill sprites and fiends</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which haunt, with swinging snakes, the undergrowth.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Dark pools she saw, and drinking-holes, and peaks</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wherefrom break down in tumbling cataracts</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The wild white waters, marvellous to hear.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Also she passed&mdash;this daughter of a king&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where snorted the fierce buffaloes, and where</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The gray boars rooted for their food, and where</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The black bears growled, and serpents in the grass</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rustled and hissed. But all along that way</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Safe paced she in her majesty of grace,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>High fortune, courage, constancy, and right&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vidarbha's glory&mdash;seeking, all alone,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lost Nala; and less terror at these sights</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Came to sad Damayanti for herself&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Threading this dreadful forest&mdash;than for him.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Most was her mind on Nala's fate intent.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bitterly grieving stood the sweet Princess</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upon a rock, her tender limbs a-thrill</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With heavy fears for Nala while she spake:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>&quot;Broad-chested Chief! my long-armed Lord of men!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nishadha's King! Ah! whither art thou gone.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Leaving me thus in the unpeopled wood?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The A&#347;wamedha sacrifice thou mad'st,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And all the rites and royal gifts hast given,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A lion-hearted Prince, holy and true</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To all save me! That which thou didst declare,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hand in hand with me&mdash;once so fond and kind&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Recall it now&mdash;thy sacred word, thy vow,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whithersoever, Raja, thou art fled.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Think how the message of the gold-winged swans</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was spoken, by thine own lips, then to me!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>True men keep faith; this is the teaching taught</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In Vedas, Angas, and Upangas all,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hear which we may; wilt thou not, therefore, Prince&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wilt thou not, terror of thy foes, keep faith,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Making thy promise good to cleave to me?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ha, Nala, Lord! Am I not surely still</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy chosen, thy beloved? Answerest not</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy wife in this dark, horror-haunted shade?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The tyrant of the jungle, fierce and fell,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With jaws agape to take me, crouches nigh,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thou not here to rescue me&mdash;not thou,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who saidst none other in the world was dear</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But Damayanti! Prove the fond speech true,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Uttered so often! Why repliest not</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To me, thy well-beloved; me, distraught,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Longed for and longing; me, my Prince and pride,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That am so weary, weak, and miserable,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Stained with the mire, in this torn cloth half clad,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Alone and weeping, seeing no help near?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ah, stag of all the herd! leav'st thou thy hind</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Astray, regarding not these tears which roll?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My Nala, Maharaja! It is I</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who cry, thy Damayanti, true and pure,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lost in the wood, and still thou answerest not!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>High-born, high-hearted, full of grace and strength</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In all thy limbs, shall I not find thee soon</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On yonder hill? Shall I not see, at last,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In some track of this grim, beast-peopled wood,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Standing, or seated, or upon the leaves</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lying, or coming, him who is of men</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The glory, but for me the grief-maker?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If not, whom shall I question, woe-begone,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Saying, 'In any region of this wood</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hast thou, perchance, seen Nala?' Is there none,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In all the forest, would reply to me</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With tidings of my lord, wandered away,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Kingly in mind and form, of hosts of foes</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The conqueror? Who will say, with blessed voice,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'That Raja with the lotus-eyes is near,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whom thou dost seek'?&mdash;Nay, here comes one to ask,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The yellow forest-king, his great jaws armed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With fourfold fangs. A tiger standeth now</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Face to face on my path; I'll speak with him</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fearlessly: 'Dreadful chief of all this waste,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou art the sovereign of the beasts, and I</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Am daughter of Vidarbha's King; my name,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Princess Damayanti; know thou me,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wife of Nishadha's Lord&mdash;of Nala&mdash;styled</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Subduer of his Foes&quot;? Him seek I here&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Abandoned, sorrow-stricken, miserable.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Comfort me, mighty beast, if so thou canst,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Saying thou hast seen Nala; but if this</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou canst not do, then, ah, thou savage lord,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Terrible friend, devour me, setting me</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Free from all woes!' The tiger answereth not;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He turns, and quits me in my tears, to stalk</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Down where the river glitters through the reeds,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Seeking its seaward way. Then will I pray</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unto yon sacred mount of clustered crags,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Broad-shouldered, shining, lifting high to heaven</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Its diverse-colored peaks, where the mind climbs</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Its hid heart rich with silver veins, and gold,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And stored with many a precious gem unseen.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Clear towers it o'er the forest, broad and bright</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like a green banner; and the sides of it</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>House many a living thing&mdash;lions and boars,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Tigers and elephants, and bears and deer.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Softly around me from its feathered flocks</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The songs ring, perched upon the kinsuk trees,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The asokas, vakuls, and punn&acirc;ga boughs,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or hidden in the karnikara leaves,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And tendrils of the dhava or the fig;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Full of great glens it soars, where waters leap</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And bright birds lave. This king of hills I sue</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For tidings of my lord. O Mountain Lord,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Far-seen and celebrated hill! that cleav'st</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The blue of the sky, refuge of living things,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Most noble eminence, I worship thee;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thee I salute, who am a monarch's child,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The daughter and the consort of a prince,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The high-born Damayanti, unto whom</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bhima, Vidarbha's chief&mdash;that puissant lord&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was sire, renowned o'er earth. Protector he</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of the four castes, performer of the rites</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Called Rajasuya and the A&#347;wamedha&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A bounteous giver, first of rulers, known</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For his large shining eyes; holy and just,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fast to his word, unenvious, sweet of speech,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gentle and valiant, dutiful and pure;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The guardian of Vidarbha, of his foes</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The slayer. Know me, O Majestic Mount!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For that King's daughter, bending low to thee.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In Nishadha lived the father of my lord,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Maharaja Virasena named,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wealthy and great; whose son, of regal blood,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>High-fortuned, powerful, and noble-souled,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ruleth by right the realm paternal: he</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is Nala, terror of all enemies;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Dark Nala, praised-in-song; Nala the just,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The pure; deep-seen in scriptures, sweet of speech,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Drinker of Soma-juice, and worshipper</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Agni; sacrificing, giving gifts;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>First in the wars, a perfect, princely lord.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His wife am I, Great Mountain! and come here</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fortuneless, husbandless, and spiritless,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Everywhere seeking him, my best of men.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>O Mount, whose doubled ridge stamps on the sky</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yon line, by fivescore splendid pinnacles</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Indented! tell me, in this gloomy wood</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hast thou seen Nala? Nala, wise and bold,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like a tusked elephant for might; long armed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Indomitable, gallant, glorious, true;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nala, Nishadha's chief&mdash;hast thou seen him?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>O Mountain, why consolest thou me not,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Answering one word to sorrowful, distressed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lonely, lost Damayanti?&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 14em;'>Then she cried:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;But answer for thyself, Hero and Lord!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If thou art in the forest, show thyself!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Alas! when shall I hear that voice, as low,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As tender as the murmur of the rain</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When great clouds gather; sweet as Amrit-drink?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy voice, once more, my Nala, calling to me</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Full softly, 'Damayanti!'&mdash;dearest Prince,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That would be music soothing to these ears</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As sound of sacred Veda; that would stay</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My pains and comfort me, and bring me peace.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Thereafter, turning from the mount, she went</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Northwards, and journeying on three nights and days</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Came to a green incomparable grove</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By holy men inhabited; a haunt</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Placid as Paradise, whose indwellers</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like to Va&#347;istha, Bhrigu, Atri, were&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Those ancient saints. Restraining sense they lived,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Heedful in meats, subduing passion, pure,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Breathing within; their food water and herbs;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ascetics; very holy; seeking still</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The heavenward road; clad in the bark of trees</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And skins&mdash;all gauds of earth being put by.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This hermitage, peopled by gentle ones,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Glad Damayanti spied, circled with herds</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of wild things grazing fearless, and with troops</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of monkey-folk o'erheard; and when she saw,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her heart was lightened, for its quietness.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So drew she nigh&mdash;that lovely wanderer&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bright-browed, long-tressed, large-hipped, full-bosomed, fair,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With pearly teeth and honeyed mouth, in gait</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Right queenly still, having those long black eyes&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The wife of Virasena's son, the gem</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of all dear women, glory of her time;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sad Damayanti entered their abode,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Those holy men saluting reverently,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With modest body bowed. Thus stood she there</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And all the saints spake gently, &quot;<i>Sw&acirc;gatam</i>&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Welcome!&quot; and gave the greetings which are meet;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And afterwards, &quot;Repose thyself,&quot; they said;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;What wouldst thou have of us?&quot; Then, with soft words</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The slender-waisted spake: &quot;Of all these here,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So worshipful in sacrifice and rite&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Mid gentle beasts and birds&mdash;in tasks and toils</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And blameless duties&mdash;is it well?&quot; And they</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Answered: &quot;We thank you, noble lady, well.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Tell us, most beauteous one, thy name, and say</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What thou desirest. Seeing thee so fair,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So worthy, yet so sorrowful, our minds</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Are lost in wonder. Weep not. Comfort take.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Art thou the goddess of the wood? Art thou</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Mountain-Yakshi, or, belike, some sprite</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which lives under the river? Tell us true,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gentle and faultless form!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 16.5em;'>Whereat reply</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus made she to the Rishis: &quot;None of these</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Am I, good saints. No goddess of the wood,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor yet a mountain nor a river sprite;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A woman ye behold, most only ones,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whose moving story I will tell you true.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Raja of Vidarbha is my sire,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bhima his name, and&mdash;Best of Twice-born!&mdash;know</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My husband is Nishadha's Chief, the famed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The wise and valiant and victorious Prince,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The high and lordly Nala; of the gods</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A steadfast worshipper; of Br&aacute;hmanas</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The friend; his people's shield; honored and strong,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Truth-speaking, skilled in arms, sagacious, just;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Terrible to his foes, fortunate, lord</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of many conquered towns; a godlike man,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Princeliest of princes&mdash;Nala&mdash;one that hath</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A countenance like the full moon's for light,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And eyes of lotus. This true offerer</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of sacrifices, this close votary</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Vedas and Ved&acirc;ngas, in the war</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Deadly to enemies, like sun and moon</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For splendor&mdash;by some certain evil ones</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Being defied to dice, my virtuous Prince</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was, by their wicked acts, of realm despoiled&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wealth, jewels, all. I am his woful wife,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Princess Damayanti. Seeking him</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Through thickets have I roamed, over rough hills,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By crag and river and the reedy lake,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By marsh and waterfall and jungle-bush,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In quest of him&mdash;my lord, my warrior,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My hero&mdash;and still roam, uncomforted.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Worshipful brethren! say if he hath come&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nishadha's Chief, my Nala, hitherward</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unto your pleasant homes&mdash;he, for whose sake</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I wander in the dismal pathless wood</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With bears and tigers haunted&mdash;terrible!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ah! if I find him not, ere there be passed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Many more nights and days, peace will I win;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For death shall set my mournful spirit free.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What cause have I to live, lacking my Prince?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Why should I longer breathe, whose heart is dead</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With sorrow for my lord?&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 15.5em;'>To Bhima's child,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So in the wood bewailing, made reply</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Those holy, truthful men: &quot;Beautiful One!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The future is for thee; fair will it fall!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Our eyes, by long devotions opened, see&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Even now&mdash;thy lord; thou shalt behold him soon,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nishadha's chief, the famous Nala, strong</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In battle, loving justice. Yea, this Prince</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou wilt regain, Bhima's sad daughter! freed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From troubles, purged of sin; and witness him&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With all his gems and glories&mdash;governing</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nishadha once again, invincible,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Joy of his friends and terror of his foes.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yea, Noblest, thou shalt have thy love anew</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In days to come.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 11em;'>So speaking, from the sight</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Damayanti, at that instant, passed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hermits, with hermitage and holy fires,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Evanishing. In wonderment she stood,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gazing bewildered. Then the Princess cried:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Was it in dream I saw them? Whence befell</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This unto me? Where are the brethren gone,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The ring of huts, the pleasant stream that ran</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With birds upon its crystal banks, the grove</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Delightful, with its fruits and flowers?&quot; Long while</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Pondered and wondered Damayanti there,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her bright smile fled, pale, strengthless, sorrowful;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then to another region of the wood,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With sighs, and eyes welling great tears, she passed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lamenting; till a beauteous tree she spied&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Asoka, best of trees. Fair rose it there</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Beside the forest, glowing with the flame</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of golden and crimson blossoms, and its boughs</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Full of sweet-singing birds.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 16.5em;'>&quot;<i>Ahovat</i>&mdash;Look!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She cried: &quot;Ah, lovely tree, that wavest here</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy crown of countless, shining, clustering blooms</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As thou wert woodland king&mdash;Asoka tree,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Tree called 'the sorrow-ender,' heart's-ease tree!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Be what thy name saith&mdash;end my sorrow now,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Saying, ah, bright Asoka! thou hast seen</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My Prince, my dauntless Nala; seen that lord</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whom Damayanti loves and his foes fear;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Seen great Nishadha's Chief, so dear to me,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His tender princely skin in rended cloth</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Scantily clad. Hath he passed wandering</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Under thy branches, grievously forlorn?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Answer, Asoka! 'Sorrow-ender,' speak!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That I go sorrowless, O heart's-ease, be</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Truly heart-easing&mdash;ease my heart of pain.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Thus, wild with grief, she spake unto the tree,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Round and round walking, as to reverence it;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And then, unanswered, the sweet lady sped</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Through wastes more dreadful, passing many a</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Many still-gliding rillets, many a peak</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Tree-clad, with beasts and birds of wondrous kind,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In dark ravines, and caves, and lonely glooms.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>These things saw Damayanti, Bhima's child,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Seeking her lord.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 11em;'>At last, on the long road,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She, whose soft smile was once so beautiful,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A caravan encountered. Merchantmen</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With trampling horses, elephants, and wains,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Made passage of a river, running slow</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In cool, clear waves. The quiet waters gleamed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shining and wide outspread, between the canes</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which bordered it, wherefrom echoed the cries</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of fish-hawks, curlews, and red chakrav&acirc;ks,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With sounds of leaping fish and water-snakes,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And tortoises, amid its shoals and flats</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sporting or feeding.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 12.5em;'>When she spied that throng&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Heart-maddened with her anguish, weak and wan,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Half clad, bloodless and thin, her long black locks</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Matted with dust&mdash;breathlessly breaks she in</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upon them&mdash;Nala's wife&mdash;so beauteous once,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So honored. Seeing her, some fled in fear;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Some gazed, speechless with wonder; some called out,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Mocking the piteous face by words of scorn;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But some (my King!) had pity of her woe,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And spake her fair, inquiring: &quot;Who art thou?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And whence? And in this grove what seekest thou,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To come so wild? Thy mien astonisheth.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Art of our kind, or art thou something strange,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The spirit of the forest, or the hill,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or river valley? Tell us true; then we</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Will buy thy favor. If, indeed, thou art</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yakshini, Rakshasi, or she-creature</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Haunting this region, be propitious! Send</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Our caravan in safety on its path,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That we may quickly, by thy fortune, go</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Homeward, and all fair chances fall to us.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Hereby accosted, softly gave response</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That royal lady&mdash;weary for her lord&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Answering the leader of the caravan,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And those that gathered round, a marvelling throng</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of men and boys and elders: &quot;Oh, believe</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I am as you, of mortal birth, but born</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A Raja's child, and made a Raja's wife.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Him seek I, Chieftain of Nishadha, named</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Prince Nala&mdash;famous, glorious, first in war.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If ye know aught of him, my king, my joy,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My tiger of the jungle, my lost lord,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Quick, tell me, comfort me!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 15.5em;'>Then one who led</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their line&mdash;the merchant &#346;uchi&mdash;answering,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Spake to the peerless Princess: &quot;Hear me now.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I am the captain of this caravan,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But nowhere any named by Nala's name</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Have I, or these, beheld. Of evil beasts</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The woods were full&mdash;cheetahs and bears and cats,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Tigers and elephants, bison and boar;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Those saw we in the brake on every side,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But nowhere nought of human shape, save thee.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>May Manibhadra have us in his grace&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Lord of Yakshas&mdash;as I tell thee truth!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Then sadly spake she to the trader-chief</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And to his band: &quot;Whither wend ye, I pray?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Please ye, acquaint me where this S&acirc;rth&acirc;<a name="FNanchor23"></a><a href="#Footnote_23"><sup>[23]</sup></a> goes.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Replied the captain: &quot;Unto Chedi's realm,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where rules the just Sub&acirc;hu, journey we,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To sell our merchandise, daughter of men!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Thus by the chieftain of the band informed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The peerless Princess journeyed with them, still</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Seeking her lord. And at the first the way</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fared through another forest, dark and deep;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Afterwards came the traders to a pool</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Broad, everywhere delightful, odorous</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With cups of opened lotus, and its shores</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Green with rich grass, and edged with garden trees&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A place of flowers and fruits and singing birds.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So cool and clear and peacefully it gleamed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That men and cattle, weary with the march,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Clamored to pitch; and, on their chieftain's sign,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The pleasant hollow entered they, and camped&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All the long caravan&mdash;at sunset's hour.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>There, in the quiet of the middle night,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Deep slumbered these; when, sudden on them fell</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A herd of elephants, thirsting to drink,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In rut, the mada<a name="FNanchor24"></a><a href="#Footnote_24"><sup>[24]</sup></a> oozing from their heads.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And when those great beasts spied the caravan,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And smelled the tame cows of their kind, they rushed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Headlong, and, mad with must, overwhelming all,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With onset vast and irresistible.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As when from some tall peak into the plain</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thunder and smoke and crash the rolling rocks,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Through splintered stems and thorns breaking their path,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So swept the herd to where, beside the pool,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Those sleepers lay; and trampled them to earth</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Half-risen, helpless, shrieking in the dark,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Haha! the elephants!&quot; Of those unslain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Some in the thickets sought a shelter; some,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yet dazed with sleep, stood panic-stricken, mute;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Till here with tusks, and there with trunks, the beasts</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gored them, and battered them, and trod them flat</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Under their monstrous feet. Then might be seen</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Camels with camel-drivers, perishing,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And men flying in fear, who struck at men&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Terror and death and clamor everywhere:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While some, despairing, cast themselves to earth;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And some, in fleeing, fell and died; and some</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Climbed to the tree-tops. Thus on every side</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Scattered and ruined was that caravan&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Cattle and merchants&mdash;by the herd assailed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So hideous was the tumult,-all three worlds</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Seemed filled with fright; and one was heard to cry:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;The fire is in the tents! fly for your lives!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Stay not!&quot; And others cried: &quot;Look where we leave</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Our treasures trodden down; gather them! Halt!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Why run ye, losing ours and yours? Nay, stay!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Stand ye, and we will stand!&quot; And then to these</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One voice cried, &quot;Stand!&quot; another, &quot;Fly! we die!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Answered by those again who shouted, &quot;Stand!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Think what we lose, O cowards!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 18em;'>While this rout</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Raged, amid dying groans and sounds of fear,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Princess, waking startled, terror-struck,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Saw such a sight as might the boldest daunt&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Such scene as those great lovely lotus-eyes</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ne'er gazed upon before. Sick with new dread&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her breath suspended 'twixt her lips&mdash;she rose</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And heard, of those surviving, some one moan</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Amidst his fellows: &quot;From whose evil act</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is this the fruit? Hath worship not been paid</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To mighty Manibhadra? Gave we not</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The reverence due to Vaishravan, that King</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of all the Yakshas? Was not offering made</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>At outset to the spirits which impede?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is this the evil portent of the birds?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Were the stars adverse? or what else hath fall'n?&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And others said, wailing for friends and goods:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Who was that woman, with mad eyes, that came</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Into our camp, ill-favored, hardly cast</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In mortal mould? By her, be sure, was wrought</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This direful sorcery. Demon or witch,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yaksh&icirc; or Rakshas&icirc;, or gliding ghost,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or something frightful, was she. Hers this deed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of midnight murders; doubt there can be none.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ah, if we could espy that hateful one,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The ruin of our march, the woe-maker,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With stones, clods, canes, or clubs, nay, with clenched fists,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>We'd strike her dead, the murderess of our band!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Trembling the Princess heard those angry words;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And&mdash;saddened, maddened, shamed&mdash;breathless she fled</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Into the thicket, doubtful if such sin</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Might not be hers, and with fresh dread distressed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Aho!&quot; she weeps, &quot;pitiless grows the wrath</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Fate against me. Not one gleam of good</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Arriveth. Of what fault is this the fruit?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I cannot call to mind a wrong I wrought</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To any&mdash;even a little thing&mdash;in act</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or thought or word; whence then hath come this curse?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Belike from ill deeds done in by-gone lives</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>It hath befall'n, and what I suffer now</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is payment of old evils undischarged.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Grievous the doom&mdash;my palace lost, my lord,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My children, kindred; I am torn away</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From home and love and all, to roam accurst</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In this plague-haunted waste!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 17.5em;'>When broke the day,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Those which escaped alive, with grievous cries</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Departed, mourning for their fellows slain.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each one a kinsman or a friend laments&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Father or brother, son, or comrade dear.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And Damayanti, hearing, weeps anew,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Saying: &quot;What dreadful sin was that I wrought</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Long, long ago, which, when I chance to meet</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>These wayfarers in the unpeopled wood,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Dooms them to perish by the elephants,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In my dark destiny enwrapped? No doubt</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>More and more sorrow I shall bear, or bring,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For none dies ere his time; this is the lore</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of ancient sages; this is why&mdash;being glad</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If I could die&mdash;I was not trampled down</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Under the elephants. There haps to man</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nothing unless by destiny. Why else,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Seeing that never have I wrought one wrong,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From childhood's hours, in thought or word or deed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hath this woe chanced? May be&mdash;meseems it may!&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The mighty gods, at my Swayamvara</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Slighted by me for Nala's dearest sake,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Are wroth, and by their dread displeasure thus</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To loss and loneliness I am consigned!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>So&mdash;woe-begone and wild&mdash;this noble wife,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Deserted Damayanti, poured her griefs:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And afterwards, with certain Br&aacute;hmanas</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Saved from the rout&mdash;good men who knew the Veds&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sadly her road she finished, like the moon</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That goeth clouded in the month of rain.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus travelling long, the Princess drew at last</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nigh to a city, at the evening hour.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The dwelling-place it was of Chedi's Chief,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The just Sub&acirc;hu. Through its lofty gates</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Painfully passed she, clad in half a cloth;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And as she entered&mdash;sorrow-stricken, wan,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Foot-weary, stained with mire, with unsmoothed hair,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unbathed, and eyes of madness&mdash;those who saw,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wondered and stared, and watched her as she toiled</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Down the long city street. The children break</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From play, and&mdash;boys with girls&mdash;followed her steps,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So that she came&mdash;a crowd encompassing&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unto the King's door. On the palace roof</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The mother of the Maharaja paced,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And marked the throng, and that sad wayfarer.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then to her nurse spake the queen-mother this:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Go thou, and bring yon woman unto me!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The people trouble her; mournful she walks,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Seeming unfriended, yet bears she a mien</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Made for a king's abode, and, all so wild,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Still are her wistful eyes like the great eyes</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Lakshmi's self.&quot; So downwards went the nurse,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bidding the rude folk back; and to the roof</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of the great palace led that wandering one&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Desolate Damayanti&mdash;whom the Queen</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Courteous besought: &quot;Though thou art wan of face,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou wear'st a noble air, which through thy griefs</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shineth as lightning doth behind its cloud.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Tell me thy name, and whose thou art, and whence.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No lowborn form is thine, albeit thou com'st</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wearing no ornaments; and all alone</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wanderest&mdash;not fearing men&mdash;by some spell safe.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Hearing which words, the child of Bhima spake</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gratefully this: &quot;A woful woman I,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And woful wife, but faithful to my vows;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>High-born, but like a servant, like a slave,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lodging where it may hap, and finding food</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From the wild roots and fruits wherever night</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Brings me my resting-place. Yet is my lord</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A prince noble and great, with countless gifts</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Endued; and him I followed faithfully</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As 't were his shadow, till hard fate decreed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That he should fall into the rage of dice:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, worsted in that play, into the wood</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He fled, clad in one cloth, frenzied and lone.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And I his steps attended in the wood,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Comforting him, my husband. But it chanced,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hungry and desperate, he lost his cloth;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And I&mdash;one garment bearing&mdash;followed still</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My unclad lord, despairing, reasonless,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Through many a weary night not slumbering.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But when, at length, a little while I slept,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My Prince abandoned me, rending away</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Half of my garment, leaving there his wife,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who never wrought him wrong. That lord I seek</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By day and night, with heart and soul on fire&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Seek, but still find not; though he is to me</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Brighter than light which gleams from lotus-cups,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Divine as are the immortals, dear as breath,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The master of my life, my pride, my joy!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Whom, grieving so, her sweet eyes blind with tears,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gently addressed Sub&acirc;hu's mother&mdash;sad</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To hear as she to tell. &quot;Stay with us here,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou ill-starred lady. Great the friendliness</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I have for thee. The people of our court</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shall thy lost husband seek; or, it may be,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He too will wander hither of himself</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By devious paths: yea, mournful one, thy lord</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou wilt regain, abiding with us here.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And Damayanti, bowing, answered thus</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unto the Queen: &quot;I will abide with thee,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>O mother of illustrious sons, if so</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They feed me not on orts, nor seek from me</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To wash the feet of comers, nor that I</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Be set to speak with any stranger-men</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Before the curtain; and, if any man</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sue me, that he be punished; and if twice,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then that he die, guilty of infamy.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This is my earnest prayer; but Br&aacute;hmanas</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who seek my husband, or bear news of him,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Such will I speak with. If it may be thus,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gladly would I abide, great lady, here;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If otherwise, it is not on my mind</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To sojourn longer.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 14em;'>Very tenderly</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Quoth the queen-mother: &quot;All that thou dost ask</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>We will ordain. The gods reward thy love,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which hath such honor!&quot; Comforting her so,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To the king's daughter, young Sunand&acirc;, spake</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Maharajni: &quot;See, Sunand&acirc;, here</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Clad as a handmaid, but in form divine,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One of thy years, gentle and true. Be friends;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Take and give pleasure in glad company</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each with the other, keeping happy hearts.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>So went Sunand&acirc; joyous to her house,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Leading with loving hand the Princess in,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The maidens of the court accompanying.</span><br />
+<br /></div>
+
+<a name='ND_Part_II'></a><h4><b>Part II.</b></h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Not long (O Maharaja!) was Nala fled</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From Damayanti, when, in midmost gloom</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of the thick wood a flaming fire he spied,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And from the fire's heart heard proceed a voice</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of one imperilled, crying many times:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Haste hither, Punyashloka, Nala, haste!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Fear not,&quot; the Prince replied; &quot;I come!&quot; and sprang</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Across the burning bushes, where he saw</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A snake&mdash;a king of serpents&mdash;lying curled</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In a great ring, which reared its dancing crest</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Saluting, and in human accents spoke:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Maharaja, kindly lord, I am the snake</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Kark&ocirc;taka; by me was once betrayed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The famous Rishi Narada; his wrath</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Doomed me, thou Chief of men! to bear this spell&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Coil thy false folds,' said he, 'forever here,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A serpent, motionless upon this spot,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Till it shall chance that Nala passeth by</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And bears thee hence; then only from my curse</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Canst thou be freed,' And prisoned by that curse</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I have no power to stir, though the wood burns;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nay, not a coil! good fellowship I'll show</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If thou wilt succor me. I'll be to thee</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A faithful friend, as no snake ever yet.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lift me, and quickly from the flames bear forth:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For thee I shall grow light.&quot; Thereat shrank up</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That monstrous reptile to a finger's length;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And grasping this, unto a place secure</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From burning, Nala bore it, where the air</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Breathed freshly, and the fire's black path was stayed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Then made the Prince to lay the serpent down,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But yet again it speaks: &quot;Nishadha's Lord,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Grasp me and slowly go, counting thy steps;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For, Raja, thou shalt have good fortune hence.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So Nala slowly went, counting his steps;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And when the tenth pace came, the serpent turned</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And bit the Prince. No sooner pierced that tooth</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Than all the likeness of Nishadha changed;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, wonder-struck, he gazed upon himself;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While from the dust he saw the snake arise</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A man, and, speaking as Kark&ocirc;taka,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Comfort him thus:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 12em;'>&quot;Thou art by me transformed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That no man know thee: and that evil one</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>(Possessing, and undoing thee, with grief)</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shall so within thee by my venom smart,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shall through thy blood so ache, that&mdash;till he quit&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He shall endure the woe he did impart.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus by my potent spell, most noble Prince!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>(Who sufferest too long) thou wilt be freed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From him that haunts thee. Fear no more the wood,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou tiger of all princes! fear thou not</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Horned nor fanged beasts, nor any enemies,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Though they be Br&aacute;hmans! safe thou goest now,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Guarded from grief and hurt&mdash;Chieftain of men!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By this kind poison. In the fields of war</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Henceforth the victory always falls to thee;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Go joyous, therefore, Prince; give thyself forth</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For 'Vah&ucirc;ka, the charioteer:' repair</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Rituparna's city, who is skilled</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In play, and dwells in fair Ayodhy&acirc;.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wend thou, Nishadha! thither; he will teach</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Great subtlety in numbers unto thee,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Exchanging this for thine own matchless gift</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of taming horses. From the lordly line</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Descended of Ikshvaku, glad and kind</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The King will be; and thou, learning of him</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His deepest act of dice, wilt win back all,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And clasp again thy Princess. Therefore waste</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No thought on woes. I tell thee truth! thy realm</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou shalt regain; and when the time is come</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That thou hast need to put thine own form on,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Call me to mind, O Prince, and tie this cloth</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Around thy body. Wearing it, thy shape</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou shalt resume.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 11.5em;'>Therewith the serpent gave</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A magic twofold robe, not wove on earth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which (O thou son of Kuru!) Nala took;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And so the snake, transformed, vanished away.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The great snake being gone, Nishadha's Chief</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Set forth, and on the tenth day entered in</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>At Rituparna's town; there he besought</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The presence of the Raja, and spake thus:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;I am the chariot-driver, Vah&ucirc;ka.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>There is not on this earth another man</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hath gifts like mine to tame and guide the steed;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Moreover, thou mayest use me in nice needs</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And dangerous, where kings lack faithful hearts.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Specially skilful I am in dressing meats;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And whatso other duties may befall,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Though they be weighty, I shall execute,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If, Rituparna, thou wilt take me in.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>&quot;I take thee,&quot; quoth the King. &quot;Dwell here with me.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Such service as thou knowest, render us.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Tis, Vah&ucirc;ka, forever in my heart</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To have my steeds the swiftest; be thy task</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To train me horses like the wind for speed;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My charioteer I make thee, and thy wage</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ten thousand gold suvernas. Thou wilt have</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For fellows, Varshneya and Jivala;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With those abiding, lodge thou happy here.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>So entertained and honored of the King,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In Rituparna's city Nala dwelled,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lodging with Varshneya and Jivala.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>There sojourned he (my Raja!), thinking still</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of sweet Vidarbha's Princess day by day;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And sunset after sunset one sad strain</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He sang: &quot;Where resteth she that roamed the wood</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hungry and parched and worn, but always true?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Doth she remember yet her faultful lord?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ah, who is near her now?&quot; So it befell</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Jivala heard him ever sighing thus,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And questioned: &quot;Who is she thou dost lament?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Say, Vah&ucirc;ka! fain would I know her name.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Long life be thine; but tell me who he is,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The faultful man that was the lady's lord.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And Nala answered him: &quot;There lives a man,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Evil and rash, that had a noble wife.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>False to his word he was; and thus it fell</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That somewhere, for some reason (ask not me!),</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He quitted her, this rash one. And&mdash;so wrenched</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Apart from hers&mdash;his spirit, bad and sad,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Muses and moans, with grief's slow fire consumed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Night-time and day-time. Thence it is he sings</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>At every sunset this unchanging verse,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>An outcast on the earth, by hazard led</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hither and thither. Such a man thou seest</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Woful, unworthy, holding in his heart</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Always that sin. I was that lady's lord,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whom she did follow through the dreadful wood,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Living by me abandoned, at this hour;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If yet, in truth, she lives&mdash;youthful, alone,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unpractised in the ways, not meriting</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fortunes so hard. Ah, if indeed she lives,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who roamed the thick and boundless forest, full</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of prowling beasts&mdash;roamed it, my Jivala,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unguarded by her guilty lord&mdash;forsook,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Betrayed, good friend!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 13.5em;'>Thus did Nishadha grieve,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Calling sweet Damayanti to his mind.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So tarried he within the Raja's house,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And no man knew his place of sojourning.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>While, stripped of state, the Prince and Princess thus</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Were sunk to servitude, Bhima made quest,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sending his Br&aacute;hmans forth to search for them</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With straight commands, and for their road-money</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Liberal store. &quot;Seek everywhere,&quot; said he</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unto the twice-born, &quot;Nala&mdash;everywhere</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My daughter Damayanti. Whoso comes</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Successful in this quest, discovering her&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With lost Nishadha's Lord&mdash;and bringing them,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A thousand cows to that man will I give,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And village-lands whence shall be revenue</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As great as from a city. If so be</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ye cannot bring me Nala and my child,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To him that learns their refuge I will give</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The thousand cows.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 11.5em;'>Thereby rejoiced, they went,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Those Br&aacute;hmans, hither and thither, up and down,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Into all regions, rajaships, and towns,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Seeking Nishadha's Chieftain, and his wife.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But Nala nowhere found they; nowhere found</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sweet Damayanti, Bhima's beauteous child&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Until, straying to pleasant Chedipur,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One day a twice-born came, Sud&ecirc;va named,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And entered it; and, spying round about</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>(Upon a feast-day by the King proclaimed),</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He saw forth-passing through the palace gate</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A woman&mdash;Bhima's daughter&mdash;side by side</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With young Sunand&acirc;. Little praise had now</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That beauty which in old days shone so bright;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Marred with much grief it was, like sunlight dimmed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By fold on fold of wreathed and creeping mists.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But when Sud&ecirc;va marked the great dark eyes&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lustreless though they were, and she so worn,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So listless&mdash;&quot;Lo, the Princess!&quot; whispered he;&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;'Tis the King's daughter,&quot; quoth he to himself;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thus mused on:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 12em;'>&quot;Yea! as I used to see,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Tis she! no other woman hath such grace!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My task is done; I gaze on that one form,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which is like Lakshmi's, whom all worlds adore.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I see the bosoms, rounded, dark, and smooth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As they were sister-moons; the soft moon-face</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which with its queenly light makes all things bright</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where it doth gleam; the large deep lotus-eyes,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That, like to Rati's own, the Queen of Love,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Beam, each a lovelit star, filling the worlds</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With longing. Ah, fair lotus-flower, plucked up</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By Fate's hard grasp from far Vidarbha's pool,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How is thy cup muddied and slimed to-day!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ah, moon, how is thy night like to the eclipse</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When Rahu swallows up the silver round!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ah, tearless eyes, reddened with weeping him,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How are ye like to gentle streams run dry!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ah, lake of lilies, where grief's elephant</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hath swung his trunk, and turned the crystal black,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And scattered all the blue and crimson cups,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And frightened off the birds! Ah, lily-cup,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Tender, and delicately leaved, and reared</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To blossom in a palace built of gems,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How dost thou wither here, wrenched by the root,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sun-scorched and faded! Noblest, loveliest, best!&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who bear'st no gems, yet so becomest them&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How like the new moon's silver horn thou art,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When envious black clouds blot it! Lost for thee</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Are love, home, children, friends, and kinsmen; lost</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All joy of that fair body thou dost wear</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Only that it may last to find thy lord.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Truly a woman's ornament is this:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The husband is her jewel; lacking him</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She hath none, though she shines with priceless pearls;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Piteous must be her state! And, torn from her,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Doth Nala cling to life; or, day by day,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Waste with long yearning? Oh, as I behold</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Those black locks, and those eyes&mdash;dark and long-shaped</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As are the hundred-petalled lotus-leaves&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And watch her joyless who deserves all joy,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My heart is sore! When will she overpass</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The river of this sorrow, and come safe</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unto its farther shore? When will she meet</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her lord, as moon and moon-star in the sky</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Mingle? For, as I think, in winning her,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nala would win his happy days again,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And&mdash;albeit banished now&mdash;have back his lands.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Alike in years and graces, and alike</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In lordly race these were: no bride could seem</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Worthy Nishadha, if it were not she;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor husband worthy of Vidarbha's Pride,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Save it were Nala. It is meet I bring</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Comfort forthwith to yon despairing one,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The consort of the just and noble Prince,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For whom I see her heart-sick. I will go</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And speak good tidings to this moon-faced Queen,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who once knew nought of sorrows, but to-day</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Stands yonder, plunged heart-deep in woful thought.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>So, all those signs and marks considering</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which stamped her Bhima's child, Sud&ecirc;va drew</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nearer, and said: &quot;Vidarbhi, Nala's wife,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I am the Br&aacute;hmana Sud&ecirc;va, friend</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unto my lord, thy brother, and I come</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By royal Bhima's mandate, seeking thee.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That Maharaja, thy father, dwells in health;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy mother and thy house are well; and well&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With promise of long years&mdash;thy little ones,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sister and brother. Yet, for thy sake, Queen,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy kindred sit as men with spirit gone;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In search of thee a hundred twice-born rove</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Over all lands.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 10.5em;'>But (O King Yudhisthir!)</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hardly one word she heard before she broke</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With question after question on the man,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Asking of this dear friend and that and this;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All mingled with quick tears, and tender sighs,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And hungry gazing on her brother's friend,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sud&ecirc;va&mdash;best of Br&aacute;hmanas&mdash;come there.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which soon Sunand&acirc; marked, watching them speak</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Apart, and Damayanti all in tears.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then came she to her mother, saying: &quot;See,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The handmaid thou didst give me talks below</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With one who is a Br&aacute;hman, all her words</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Watered with weeping; if thou wilt, demand</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What this man knows.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 12.5em;'>Therewith swept forth amazed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The mother of the Raja, and beheld</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How Nala's wife spake with the Br&aacute;hmana.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whom straight she bade them summon; and, being brought,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In this wise questioned: &quot;Knowest thou whose wife,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whose daughter, this one is; and how she left</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her kin; and wherefore, being heavenly-eyed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And noble-mannered, she hath wandered here?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I am full fain to hear this; tell me all,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No whit withholding; answer faithfully&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who is our slave-girl with the goddess gait?&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The Br&aacute;hmana Sud&ecirc;va, so addressed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Seating himself at ease, unto the Queen</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Told Damayanti's story, how all fell.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Sud&ecirc;va said: &quot;There reigns in majesty</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>King Bhima at Vidarbha; and of him</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Princess Damayanti here is child;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Virasena's son, Nala, is Lord</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Over Nishadha, praised-in-song and wise;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And of that Prince this lady is the wife.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In play his brother worsted Nala&mdash;stripped</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of lands and wealth the Prince; who fled his realm,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wandering with Damayanti&mdash;where, none knew.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In quest of Damayanti we have roamed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The earth's face o'er, until I found her here</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In thy son's house, the King's&mdash;the very same,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Since like to her for grace no woman lives</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of all fair women. Where her eyebrows meet</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A pretty mole, born with her, should be seen</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A little lotus-bud&mdash;not visible</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By reason of the dust of toil which clouds</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her face and veils its moon-like beauty&mdash;that</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The wondrous Maker on the rare work stamped</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To be His Mark. But as the waxing moon</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Goes thin and darkling for awhile, then rounds</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The crescent's rims with splendors, so this Queen</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hath lost not queenliness. Being now obscured,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Soiled with the grime of chores, unbeautified,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She shows true gold. The fire which trieth gold</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Denoteth less itself by instant heat</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Than Damayanti by her goodlihood.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As first sight knew I her. She bears that mole.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Whilst yet Sud&ecirc;va spake (O King of men!),</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sunand&acirc; from the slave's front washed away</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The gathered dust, and forth that mark appeared</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Twixt Damayanti's brows, as when clouds break,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And in the sky the moon, the night-maker,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Glitters to view. Seeing the spot awhile,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sunand&acirc; and the mother of the King</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gazed voiceless; then they clasped her neck and wept</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rejoicing, till the Queen, staying her tears,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Exclaimed: &quot;My sister's daughter, dear! thou art,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By this same mark. Thy mother and myself</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Were sisters by one father&mdash;he that rules</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Da&#347;arna, King Sud&acirc;man. She was given</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Bhima, and to Virabahu I.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Once at Da&#347;arna, in my father's house,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I saw thee, newly born. Thy race and mine,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Princess, are one: henceforward, therefore, here</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As I am, Damayanti, shalt thou be.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>With gladdened heart did Damayanti bend</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Before her mother's sister, answering thus:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Peaceful and thankful dwelled I here with thee,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Being unknown, my every need supplied,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My life and honor by thy succor safe,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yet, Maharajni, even than this dear home</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One would be dearer: 'tis so many days</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Since we were parted. Suffer me to go</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where those my tender little ones were led;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So long&mdash;poor babes!&mdash;of me and of their sire</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bereft. If, lady, thou dost think to show</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Kindness to me, this is my wish: to wend</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unto Vidarbha swiftly; wilt thou bid</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They bear me thither?&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 13.5em;'>Was no sooner heard</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That fond desire, than the queen-mother gave</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Willing command; and soon an ample troop,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The King consenting, gathered for her guard.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So was she sent upon a palanquin,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With soldiers, pole-bearers, and meat and drink,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And garments as befitted&mdash;happier&mdash;home.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Thus to Vidarbha came its Pride again,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By no long road; and joyously her kin</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Brought the sweet Princess in, and welcomed her.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In peace and safety all her house she found;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her children well;&mdash;father and mother, friends.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The gods she worshipped, and to Br&aacute;hmanas</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Due reverence made, and whatso else was meet</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That Damayanti did, regal in all.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To wise Sud&ecirc;va fell the thousand cows</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By Bhima granted, with the village-lands,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And goodly gifts beside.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 14.5em;'>But when there passed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One night of rest within the palace-walls,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The wistful Princess to her mother said:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;If thou wouldst have me live, I tell thee true,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Dear mother, it must be by bringing back</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My Nala, my own lord; and only so.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>When this she spake, right sorrowful became</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Rani, weeping silently, nor gave</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One word of answer; and the palace-girls,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Seeing this grief, sat round them, weeping too,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And crying: &quot;Haha! where is gone her lord?&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And loud the lamentation was of all.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Afterwards to the Maharaja his Queen</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Told what was said: &quot;Lord! all uncomforted</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy daughter Damayanti weeps and grieves,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lacking her husband. Even to me she spake</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Before our damsels, laying shame aside:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Find Nala; let the people of the court</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Strive day and night to learn where Nala is.'&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then Bhima, hearing, called his Br&aacute;hmanas</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Patient and wise, and issued hest to go</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Into all regions, seeking for the Prince.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But first, by mandate of the Maharaja,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Damayanti all those twice-born came,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Saying: &quot;Now we depart!&quot; Then Bhima's child</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gave ordinance: &quot;To whatsoever lands</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ye wend, say this&mdash;wherever gather men,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Say this&mdash;in every place these verses speak:&mdash;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Whither art thou departed, cruel lover,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 4em;'>Who stole the half of thy belov&egrave;d's cloth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And left her to awaken, and discover</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 4em;'>The wrong thou wroughtest to the love of both?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>She, as thou didst command, a sad watch keepeth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 4em;'>With woful heart wearing the rended dress.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Prince, hear her cry who thus forever weepeth;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 4em;'>Be mindful, hero; comfort her distress!</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, furthermore,&quot; the Princess said, &quot;since fire</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Leaps into flame when the wind fans the spark,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Be this too spoken, that his heart may burn:&mdash;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 3em;'>By every husband nourished and protected</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 4em;'>Should every wife be. Think upon the wood!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Why these thy duties hast thou so neglected,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 4em;'>Prince, that was called noble and true and good?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Art then become compassionate no longer,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 4em;'>Shunning, perchance, my fortune's broken way?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Ah, husband, love is most! let love be stronger;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 4em;'><i>Ahimsa paro dharma</i>,<a name="FNanchor25"></a><a href="#Footnote_25"><sup>[25]</sup></a> thou didst say.</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>These verses while ye speak,&quot; quoth the Princess,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Should any man make answer, note him well</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In any place; and who he is, and where</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He dwells. And if one listens to these words</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Intently, and shall so reply to them,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Good Br&aacute;hmans, hold ye fast his speech, and bring,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Breath by breath, all of it unto me here;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But so that he shall know not whence ye speak,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If ye go back. Do this unweariedly;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And if one answer&mdash;be he high or low,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wealthy or poor&mdash;learn all he was and is,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And what he would.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 12em;'>Hereby enjoined, they went,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Those twice-born, into all the lands to seek</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Prince Nala in his loneliness. Through towns,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Cities and villages, hamlets and camps,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By shepherds' huts and hermits' caves, they passed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Searching for Nala; yet they found him not;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Albeit in every region (O my king!)</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The words of Damayanti, as she taught,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Spake they again in hearing of all men.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Suddenly&mdash;after many days&mdash;there came</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A Br&aacute;hman back, Parn&acirc;da he was called,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who unto Bhima's child in this wise spake:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;O Damayanti, seeking Nala still,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ayodhy&acirc;'s streets I entered, where I saw</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Maharaja; he&mdash;noble-minded one!&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Heard me thy verses say, as thou hadst said;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Great Rituparna heard those very words,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Excellent Princess; but he answered nought;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And no man answered, out of all the throng</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ofttimes addressed. But when I had my leave</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And was withdrawn, a man accosted me</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Privately&mdash;one of Rituparna's train,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vah&ucirc;ka named, the Raja's charioteer</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>(Something misshapen, with a shrunken arm,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But skilled in driving, very dexterous</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In cookery and sweetmeats). He&mdash;with groans,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And tears which rolled and rolled&mdash;asked of my health,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And then these verses spake full wistfully:&mdash;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 3em;'>'Even when their loss is largest, noble ladies</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 4em;'>Keep the true treasure of their hearts unspent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Attaining heaven through faith, which undismayed is</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 4em;'>By wrong, unaltered by abandonment;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Such an one guards with virtue's golden shield</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 4em;'>Her name from harm; pious and pure and tender;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And, though her lord forsook her, will not yield</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 4em;'>To wrath, even against that vile offender&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Even against the ruined, rash, ungrateful,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 4em;'>Faithless, fond Prince from whom the birds did steal</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>His only cloth, whom now a penance fateful</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 4em;'>Dooms to sad days, that dark-eyed will not feel</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Anger; for if she saw him she should see</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 4em;'>A man consumed with grief and loss and shame;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Ill or well lodged, ever in misery,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 4em;'>Her unthroned lord, a slave without a name.'</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Such words I heard him speak,&quot; Parn&acirc;da said,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;And, hastening thence, I tell them to thee, here;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou knowest; thou wilt judge; make the King know.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But Damayanti listened, with great eyes</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Welling quick tears, while thus Parn&acirc;da spake,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And afterwards crept secretly and said</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unto her mother: &quot;Breathe no word hereof,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Dear mother, to the King, but let me speak</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With wise Sud&ecirc;va in thy presence here;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nothing should Bhima know of what I plan,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But, if thou lovest me, by thee and me</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This shall be wrought. As I was safely led</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By good Sud&ecirc;va home, so let him go&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With not less happy fortune&mdash;to bring back,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ere many days, my Nala; let him seek</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ayodhy&acirc;, mother dear, and fetch my Prince!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>But first Parn&acirc;da, resting from his road&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That best of twice-borns&mdash;did the Princess thank</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With honorable words and gifts: &quot;If home</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My Nala cometh, Br&aacute;hman!&quot; so she spake,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Great guerdon will I give. Thou hast well done</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For me herein&mdash;- better than any man;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Helping me find again my wandered lord.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To which fair words made soft reply, and prayers</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For &quot;peace and fortune,&quot; that high-minded one,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And so passed home, his service being wrought.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Next to Sud&ecirc;va spake the sad Princess</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This (O my King!), her mother standing by:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Good Br&aacute;hman, to Ayodhy&acirc;'s city go.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Say in the ears of Raja Rituparna,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As though thou cam'st a simple traveller,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'The daughter of King Bhima once again</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Maketh to hold her high Swayamvara.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The kings and princes from all lands repair</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thither; the time draws nigh; to-morrow's dawn</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shall bring the day. If thou wouldst be of it,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Speed quickly, conquering King! at sunsetting</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Another lord she chooseth for herself;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Since whether Nala liveth or is dead,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>None knoweth.'&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 10em;'>These the words which he should say;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, learning them, he sped, and thither came&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That Br&aacute;hmana Sud&ecirc;va&mdash;and he spake</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Maharaja Rituparna so.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Now when the Raja Rituparna heard</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sud&ecirc;va's words, quoth he to Vah&ucirc;ka</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Full pleasantly: &quot;Much mind I have to go</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where Damayanti holds Swayamvara,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If to Vidarbha, in a single day,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou deemest we might drive, my charioteer!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Of Nala, by his Raja thus addressed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Torn was the heart with anguish; for he thought:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Can Damayanti purpose this? Could grief</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So change her? Is it not some fine device</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For my sake schemed? Or doth my Princess seek,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All holy as she was, this guilty joy,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Being so wronged of me, her rash weak lord?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Frail is a woman's heart, and my fault great!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus might she do it, being far from home,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bereft of friends, desolate with long woes</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of love for me&mdash;my slender-waisted one!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yet no, no, no! she would not&mdash;she that is</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My children's mother! Be it false or true,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Best shall I know in going; therefore now</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The will of Rituparna must I serve.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Thus pondering in his mind, the troubled Prince</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With joined palms meekly to his master said:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;I shall thy hest accomplish! I can drive</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In one day, Raja, to Vidarbha's gates.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Then in the royal stables&mdash;steed by steed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Stallions and mares, Vah&ucirc;ka scanned them all,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By Rituparna prayed quickly to choose.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Slowly he picked four coursers, under-fleshed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But big of bone and sinew; fetlocked well</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For journeying; high-bred, heavy-framed; of blood</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To match the best, yet gentle; blemish-free;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Broad in the jaw, with scarlet nostrils spread;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bearing the <i>Avarthas</i>, the ten true marks&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Reared on the banks of Indus, swift as wind.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which, when the Raja looked upon, he cried,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Half-wrathful: &quot;What thing thinkest thou to do?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wilt thou betray me? How should sorry beasts,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lean-ribbed and ragged, take us all that way,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The long road we must swiftly travel hence?&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Vah&ucirc;ka answered: &quot;See on all these four</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The ten sure marks: one curl upon each crest,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Two on the cheeks, two upon either flank,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Two on the breast, and on each crupper one.<a name="FNanchor26"></a><a href="#Footnote_26"><sup>[26]</sup></a></span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>These to Vidarbha&mdash;doubt it not&mdash;will go;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yet, Raja, if thou wilt have others, speak;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And I shall yoke them.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 14em;'>Rituparna said:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;I know thou hast deep skill in stable-craft;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yoke therefore such four coursers as thou wilt,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But quickly!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 9em;'>Thus those horses, two by two,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>High-mettled, spare, and strong, Prince Nala put</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Under the bars; and when the car was hitched,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And eagerly the Raja made to mount,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>At sign the coursers bent their knees, and lay</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Along the earth. Then Nala (O my King!),</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With kindly voice cheering the gaunt bright steeds,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Loosed them, and grasped the reins, and bade ascend</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Varshneya: so he started, headlong, forth.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>At cry of Vah&ucirc;ka the four steeds sprung</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Into the air, as they would fly with him;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And when the Raja felt them, fleet as wind,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whirling along, mute sat he and amazed;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And much Varshneya mused to hear and see</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The thundering of those wheels; the fiery four</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So lightly held; Vah&ucirc;ka's matchless art.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Is M&acirc;tali, who driveth Indra's car,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Our charioteer? for all the marks of him</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Are here! or S&acirc;lihotra can this be,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The god of horses, knowing all their ways,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who here in mortal form his greatness hides?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or is it&mdash;can it be&mdash;Nala the Prince,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nala the steed-tamer?&quot; Thus pondered he:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Whatever Nala knew this one doth know.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Alike the mastery seems of both; alike</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I judge their years. If this man be not he,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Two Nalas are there in the world for skill.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They say there wander mighty powers on earth</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In strange disguises, who, divinely sprung,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Veil themselves from us under human mould;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bewilderment it brings me, this his shape</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Misshappen&mdash;from conclusion that alone</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Withholds me; yet I wist not what to think,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In age and manner like&mdash;and so unlike</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In form! Else Vah&ucirc;ka I must have deemed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nala, with Nala's gifts.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 15em;'>So in his heart,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Varshneya, watching, wondered&mdash;being himself</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The second charioteer. But Rituparna</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sat joyous with the speed, delightedly</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Marking the driving of the Prince: the eyes</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Attent; the hand so firm upon the reins;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The skill so quiet, wise, and masterful;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Great joy the Maharaja had to see.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>By stream and mountain, woodland-path and pool,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Swiftly, like birds that skim in air, they sped;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Till, as the chariot plunged, the Raja saw</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His shoulder-mantle falling to the ground;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And&mdash;loath to lose the robe&mdash;albeit so pressed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Nala cried he, &quot;Let me take it up;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Check the swift horses, wondrous charioteer;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And bid Varshneya light, and fetch my cloth,&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But Nala answered: &quot;Far it lies behind;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A yojana already we have passed;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>We cannot turn again to pick it up.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>A little onward Riturparna saw</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Within the wood a tall Myrobolan</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Heavy with fruit; hereat, eager he cried:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Now, Vah&ucirc;ka, my skill thou mayest behold</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In the Arithmic. All arts no man knows;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each hath his wisdom, but in one man's wit</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is perfect gift of one thing, and not more.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From yonder tree how many leaves and fruits,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Think'st thou, lie fall'n there upon the earth?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Just one above a thousand of the leaves,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And one above a hundred of the fruits;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And on those two limbs hang, of dancing leaves,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Five crores exact; and shouldst thou pluck yon boughs</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Together with their shoots, on those twain boughs</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Swing twice a thousand nuts and ninety-five!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Vah&ucirc;ka checked the chariot wonderingly,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And answered: &quot;Imperceptible to me</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is what thou boastest, slayer of thy foes!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But I to proof will put it, hewing down</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The tree, and, having counted, I shall know.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Before thine eyes the branches twain I'll lop:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How prove thee, Maharaja, otherwise,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whether this be or be not? I will count</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One by one&mdash;fruits and leaves&mdash;before thee, King;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Varshneya, for a space, can rein the steeds.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>To him replied the Raja: &quot;Time is none</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Now to delay.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 10em;'>Vah&ucirc;ka answered quick</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>(His own set purpose serving): &quot;Stay this space,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or by thyself drive on! The road is good,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The son of Vrishni will be charioteer!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>On that the Raja answered soothingly:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;There is not in the earth another man</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That hath thy skill; and by thy skill I look</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To reach Vidarbha, O thou steed-tamer!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou art my trust; make thou not hindrance now!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yet would I suffer, too, what thou dost ask,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If thou couldst surely reach Vidarbha's gate</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Before yon sun hath sunk.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 15.5em;'>Nala replied:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;When I have counted those vibh&icirc;tak boughs,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vidarbha I will reach; now keep thy word.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Ill pleased, the Raja said: &quot;Halt then, and count!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Take one bough from the branch which I shall show,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And tell its fruits, and satisfy thy soul.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>So leaping from the car&mdash;eager he shore</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The boughs, and counted; and all wonder-struck</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Rituparna spake: &quot;Lo, as thou saidst</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So many fruits there be upon this bough!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Exceeding marvellous is this thy gift,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I burn to know such learning, how it comes.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Answered the Raja, for his journey fain:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;My mind is quick with numbers, skilled to count;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I have the science.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 12.5em;'>&quot;Give it me, dear Lord!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vah&ucirc;ka cried: &quot;teach me, I pray, this lore,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And take from me my skill in horse-taming.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Quoth Rituparna&mdash;impatient to proceed&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yet of such skill desirous: &quot;Be it so!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As thou hast prayed, receive my secret art,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Exchanging with me here thy mastery</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of horses.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 8em;'>Thereupon did he impart</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His rules of numbers, taking Nala's too.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>But wonderful! So soon as Nala knew</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That hidden gift, the accursed Kali leapt</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Forth from his breast, the evil spirit's mouth</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Spewing the poison of Kark&ocirc;taka</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Even as he issued. From the afflicted Prince</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That bitter plague of Kali passed away;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And for a space Prince Nala lost himself,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rent by the agony. But when he saw</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The evil one take visible shape again&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Free from the serpent's poison&mdash;Nishadha's Lord</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Had thought to curse him then; but Kali stood</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With clasped palms trembling, and besought the Prince,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Saying: &quot;Thy wrath restrain, Sovereign of men!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I will repay thee well. Thy virtuous wife,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Indrasen's angered mother, laid her ban</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upon me when thou didst forsake her; since</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Within thee have I dwelled in anguish sore,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Tortured and tossed and burning, night and day,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With venom from the great snake's fang, which passed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Into me by thy blood. Be pitiful!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I take my refuge in thy mercy! Hear</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My promise, Prince! Wherever men henceforth</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shall name thee before people, praising thee,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This shall protect them from the dread of me;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nala shall guard from Kali, if so now</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou spare to curse me, seeking grace of thee.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Thus supplicated, Nala stayed his wrath,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Acceding; and the direful Kali fled</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Into the wounded tree, possessing it.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But of no eyes, save Nala's, was he seen,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor heard of any other; and the Prince,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His sorrows shaking off, when Kali passed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>After that numbering of the leaves, in joy</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unspeakable, and glowing with new hope,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Mounted the car again, and urged his steeds.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But from that hour the tall Myrobolan,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Possessed by Kali, stood there, sear and dead.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Then onward, onward, speeding like the birds,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Those coursers flew; and fast and faster still</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The glad Prince cheered them forward, all elate:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And proudly rode the Raja towards the walls</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of high Vidarbha. Thus did journey down</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Exultant Nala, free of trouble now,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Quit of the evil spell, but bearing still</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His form misshapen, and the shrunken limb.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>At sunset in Vidarbha (O great King!)</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The watchers on the walls proclaimed, &quot;There comes</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Raja Rituparna!&quot; Bhima bade</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Open the gates; and thus they entered in,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Making all quarters of the city shake</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With rattling of the chariot-wheels. But when</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The horses of Prince Nala heard that sound,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For joy they neighed, as when of old their lord</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Drew nigh. And Damayanti, in her bower,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Far off that rattling of the chariot heard,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As when at time of rains is heard the voice</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of clouds low thundering; and her bosom thrilled</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>At echo of that ringing sound. It came</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Loud and more loud, like Nala's, when of old,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gripping the reins, he cheered his mares along.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>It seemed like Nala to the Princess then&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That clatter of the trampling of the hoofs;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>It seemed like Nala to the stabled steeds:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upon the palace-roof the peacocks heard</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And screamed; the elephants within their stalls</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Heard it and trumpeted; the coursers, tied,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Snorted for joy to hear that leaping car;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Peacocks and elephants and cattle stalled</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All called and clamored with uplifted heads,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As wild things do at noise of coming rain.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Then to herself the Princess spake: &quot;This car,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The rolling of it, echoing all around,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gladdens my heart. It must be Nala comes,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My King of men! If I see not, this day,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My Prince that hath the bright and moon-like face,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My hero of unnumbered gifts, my lord,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ah, I shall die! If this day fall I not</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Into his opening arms&mdash;at last, at last&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And feel his close embrace, oh, beyond doubt,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I cannot live! If&mdash;ending all&mdash;to-day</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nishadha cometh not, with this deep sound</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like far-off thunder, then to-night I'll leap</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Into the golden, flickering, fiery flames!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If now, now, now, my lion draws not nigh,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My warrior-love, like the wild elephant,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My Prince of princes&mdash;I shall surely die!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nought call I now to mind he said or did</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That was not rightly said and justly done.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No idle word he spake, even in free speech;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Patient and lordly; generous to bestow</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Beyond all givers; scorning to be base,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yea, even in secret&mdash;such Nishadha was.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Alas! when, day and night, I think of him,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How is my heart consumed, reft of its joy!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>So meditating, like one torn by thoughts,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She mounted to the palace-roof to see;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thence, in the mid-court, the car beheld</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Arriving. Rituparna and Vah&ucirc;ka</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She saw, with Vrishni's son, descend and loose</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The panting horses, wheeling back the car.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Then Rituparna, alighting, sought the King,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bhima the Maharaja, far-renowned&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whom Bhima with fair courtesies received;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Since well he deemed such breathless visit made</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With deep cause, knowing not the women's plots.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;<i>Sw&acirc;gatam!&quot;</i> cried he; &quot;what hath brought thee, Prince?&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For nothing wist he that the Raja came</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Suitor of Damayanti. Questioned so,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This Raja Rituparna, wise and brave,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Seeing no kings nor princes in the court,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor noise of the Swayamvara, nor crowd</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Br&aacute;hmans gathering&mdash;weighing all those things,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Answered in this wise: &quot;I am come, great Lord,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To make thee salutations!&quot; But the King</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Laughed in his beard at Rituparna's word&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That this of many weary yojanas</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Should be the mark. &quot;<i>Ahoswid</i>! Hath he passed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Through twenty towns,&quot; thought he, &quot;and hither flown</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To bid good-morrow? Nay, it is not that.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Good! I shall know it when he bids me know.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Thereat, with friendly speech his noble guest</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The King to rest dismissed. &quot;Repose thyself,&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He said; &quot;the road was long; weary thou art.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Rituparna, with sentences of grace</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Replying to this graciousness, was led</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By slaves to the allotted sleeping-room;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And after Rituparna, Varshneya went.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vah&ucirc;ka, left alone, the chariot ran</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Into its shed, and from the foamy steeds</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unbuckled all the harness, thong by thong,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Speaking soft words to them; then sat him down,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Alone, forgotten, on the driving-seat.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>But Damayanti, seeing Rituparna,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Vrishni's son, and him called Vah&ucirc;ka,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Spake sorrowful: &quot;Whose was the thunder, then,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of that fleet car? It seemed like Nala's own;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yet here I see no Nala! Hath yon man</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My lord's art learned, or th'other one, that thus</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their car should thunder as when Nala comes?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Could Rituparna drive as Nala doth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So that those chariot-wheels should sound like his?&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, after having pondered (O my King!),</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The beauteous Princess sent her handmaiden</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Vah&ucirc;ka, that she might question him.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>&quot;Go, Keshin&icirc;,&quot; the Princess said; &quot;inquire</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who is that man upon the driving-seat,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Misshapen, with the shrunken arm. Approach</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Composedly, question him winningly</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With greetings kind, and bid him answer thee</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>According to the truth. I feel at heart</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A doubt&mdash;a hope&mdash;that this, perchance, may be</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My Lord and Prince; there is some new-born joy</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fluttering within my breast. Accost him, girl;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, ere thou partest, what Parn&acirc;da said,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Say thou, and hear him answer, blameless one,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And bring it on thy lips!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 16em;'>Then went the maid</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Demurely, and accosted Vah&ucirc;ka,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While Damayanti watched them from the roof.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>&quot;<i>Kushalam t&ecirc; brav&icirc;mi</i>&mdash;health and peace</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I wish thee!&quot; said she. &quot;Wilt thou answer true</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What Damayanti asks? She sends to ask</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whence set ye forth, and wherefore are ye come</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hither? Vidarbha's Princess fain would know.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>&quot;'Twas told my Raja,&quot; Vah&ucirc;ka replied,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;That Damayanti for the second turn</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Holds her Swayamvara: the Br&aacute;hman's word</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was, &quot;This shall be to-morrow.&quot; So he sped,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hearing that news, with steeds which in one day</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fly fifty yojanas, swift as the winds,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Exceeding fleet. His charioteer am I.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>&quot;Who, then,&quot; Keshin&icirc; asked, &quot;is he that rode</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The third? whence cometh he, and what his race?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thou thyself whence sprung? and tell me why</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou servest thus?&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 13em;'>Then Vah&ucirc;ka replied:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Varshneya is the third who rode with us,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The famous charioteer of Nala he:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When thy Prince fled, he went to Koshala</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And took our service. I in horse-taming</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And dressing meat have skill; so am I made</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>King Rituparna's driver and his cook.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>&quot;Knoweth Varshneya, then, where Nala fled?&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Inquired the maid; &quot;and did he tell thee this,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or what spake he?&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 11em;'>&quot;Of that unhappy Prince</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He brought the children hither, and then went</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Even where he would, of Nala wotting nought;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor wotteth any man, fair damsel! more.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hidden from mortal eyes Nishadha lives,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wandering the world, his very body changed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Nala only Nala's own heart knows,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And by no sign doth he bewray himself.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Keshin&icirc; said: &quot;That Br&aacute;hman who did wend</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>First to Ayodhy&acirc; bore a verse to say</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Over and over, everywhere&mdash;strange words,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wove by a woman's wit. Listen to these:&mdash;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 3em;'>'Whither art thou departed, cruel lover,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 4em;'>Who stole the half of thy belov&egrave;d's cloth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And left her to awaken and discover</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 4em;'>The wrong thou wroughtest to the love of both?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>She, as thou didst command, a sad watch keepeth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 4em;'>With woful heart wearing the rended dress.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Prince, hear her cry who thus forever weepeth;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 4em;'>Be mindful, hero; comfort her distress!'</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What was it thou didst utter, hearing this?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Some gentle speech! Say it again&mdash;the Queen,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My peerless mistress, fain would know from me.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nay, on thy faith, when thou didst hear that man,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What was it thou replied? She would know.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>(Descendant of the Kurus!) Nala's heart,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While so the maid spoke, well-nigh burst with grief,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And from his eyes fast flowed the rolling tears;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But, mastering his anguish, holding down</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The passion of his pain, with voice which strove</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To speak through sobs, the Prince repeated this:&mdash;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 3em;'>&quot;Even against the ruined, rash, ungrateful,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 4em;'>Faithless, fond Prince, from whom the birds did steal</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>His only cloth, whom now a penance fateful</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 4em;'>Dooms to sad days, that dark-eyed will not feel</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Anger; for if she saw him she should see</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 4em;'>A man consumed with grief and loss and shame;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Ill or well lodged, ever in misery,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 4em;'>Her unthroned lord, a slave without a name.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Speaking these verses, woful Nala moaned,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, overcome by thought, restrained no more</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His trickling tears; fast broke they forth (O King!).</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But Keshin&icirc;, returning, told his words</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Damayanti, and the grief of him.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>When Damayanti heard, sore-troubled still,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yet in her heart supposing him her Prince,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Again she spake: &quot;Go, Kashin&icirc;, and watch</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whatever this man doeth; near him stand,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Holding thy peace, and mark the ways of him</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And all his acts, going and coming; note</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If aught there be of strange in any deed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Let them not give him fire, my girl&mdash;not though</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This hindereth sore; nor water, though he ask</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Even with beseeching. Afterwards observe,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And bring me what befalls, and every sign</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of earthly or unearthly power he shows;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And whatsoever else Vah&ucirc;ka doth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>See it, and say.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 10em;'>Thereon Keshin&icirc; sped,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Obeying Damayanti and&mdash;at hand&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whatever by that horse-tamer was wrought,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The damsel watched, and all his ways; and came</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Back to the Princess, unto whom she told</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each thing Vah&ucirc;ka did, as it befell,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And what the signs were, and the wondrous works</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of earthly and unearthly gifts in him.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>&quot;<i>Subh&ecirc;</i>!&quot;<a name="FNanchor27"></a><a href="#Footnote_27"><sup>[27]</sup></a> quoth she, &quot;the man is magical,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But high and holy mannered; never yet</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Saw I another such, nor heard of him.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Passing the low door of the inner court,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where one must stoop, he did not bow his head,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But as he came the lintel lifted up</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And gave him space. Bhima the King had sent</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Many and diverse meats for Rituparna,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of beast and bird and fish&mdash;great store of food&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The which to cleanse some chatties stood hard by,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All empty; yet he did but look on them,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wishful, and lo! the water brimmed the pots.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then, having washed the meats, he hastened forth</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In quest of fire, and, holding towards the sun</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A knot of withered grass, the bright flame blazed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Instant amidst it. Wonderstruck was I</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This miracle to see, and hither ran</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With other strangest marvels to impart:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For, Princess, when he touched the blazing grass</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He was not burned, and water flows for him</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>At will, or ceases flowing; and this, too,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The strangest thing of all, did I behold&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He took some faded leaves and flowers up,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And idly handled them; but while his hands</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Toyed with them, lo! they blossomed forth again</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With lovelier life than ever, and fresh scent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Straight on their stalks. These marvels have I seen,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And fly back now to tell thee, mistress dear!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>But when she knew such wonders of the man,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>More certainly she deemed those acts and gifts</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Betokened Nala; and so-minded, full</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of trust to find her lord in Vah&ucirc;ka,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With happier tears and softening voice she said</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Keshin&icirc;: &quot;Speed yet again, my girl;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, while he wots not, from the kitchen take</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Meat he hath dressed, and bring it here to me.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So went the maid, and, waiting secretly,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Broke from the mess a morsel, hot and spiced,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, bearing it with faithful swiftness, gave</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Damayanti. She (O Kuru King!)&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That knew so well the dishes dressed by him&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Touched, tasted it, and, laughing&mdash;weeping&mdash;cried,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Beside herself with joy: &quot;Yes, yes; 'tis he!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That charioteer is Nala!&quot; then, a-pant,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Even while she washed her mouth, she bade the maid</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Go with the children twain to Vah&ucirc;ka;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who, when he saw his little Indrasen</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Indrasena, started up, and ran,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And caught, and folded them upon his breast;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Holding them there, his darlings, each as fair</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As children of the gods. Then, quite undone</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With love and yearning, loudly sobbed the Prince.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Until, perceiving Keshin&icirc;, who watched,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shamed to be known, he set his children down,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And said: &quot;In sooth, good friend, this lovely pair</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So like mine own are, that at seeing them</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I am surprised into these foolish tears.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou comest here too often; men will think</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thee light, or me; remember, we are here,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Strangers and guests, girl! Go thy ways in peace!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>But seeing that great trouble of his soul,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lightly came Keshin&icirc;, and pictured all</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Damayanti. She, burning to know</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If truly this were Nala, bade the girl</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Seek the Queen's presence, saying thus for her:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Mother! long watching Vah&ucirc;ka, I deem</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The charioteer is Nala. One doubt lives&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His altered form. I must myself have speech</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With Vah&ucirc;ka; thou, therefore, bid him come,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or suffer me to seek him. Be this done</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Forthwith, good mother!&mdash;whether known or not</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unto the Maharaja.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 12em;'>When she heard,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Queen told Bhima what the Princess prayed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who gave consent; and having this good leave</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From father and from mother (O my King!),</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Command was sent that Vah&ucirc;ka be brought</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where the court ladies lodged.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 17em;'>So met those twain;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And when Prince Nala's gaze fell on his wife,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He stood with beating heart and tearful eyes.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And when sweet Damayanti looked on him,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She could not speak for anguish of keen joy</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To have him close; but sat there, mute and wan,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wearing a sad-hued cloth, her lustrous hair</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Falling unbanded, and the mourning-mark</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Stamped in gray ashes on her lovely brow.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, when she found a voice, these were the words</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That came from her: &quot;Didst ever, Vah&ucirc;ka&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If Vah&ucirc;ka thy name be, as thou say'st&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Know one of noble nature, honorable,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who in the wild woods left his wife asleep&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His innocent, fond wife&mdash;weary and worn?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Know'st thou the man. I'll say his name to thee;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Twas Nala, Raja Nala! Ah, and when</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In any thoughtless hour had I once wrought</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The smallest wrong, that he should leave me so,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>There in the wood, by slumber overcome?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Before the gods I chose him for my lord,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The gods themselves rejecting; tell me how</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This Prince could so abandon, in her need,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His true, his loving wife, she who did bear</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His babes&mdash;abandon her to whom he swore&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My hand clasped, in the sight of all the gods,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Agni's self&mdash;'Thy true lord I will be!'</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou saidst it!&mdash;where is now that promise, fled?&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>While thus she spake (O Victor of thy foes!),</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fast from her eyes the woe-sprung waters ran.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Nala, seeing those night-black, loving eyes</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Reddened with weeping, seeing her falling tears;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Broke forth: &quot;Ah! that I lost my throne and realm</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In dicing, was not done by fault of mine;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'T was Kali wrought it; Kali, O my wife,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Drove me to leave thee. Therefore, long ago</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That evil one was stricken by the curse</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which thou didst utter, wandering in the wood,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Desolate, night and day, grieving for me.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Possessing me he dwelt; but, cursed by thee,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Tortured he dwelt, consuming with thy words</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In fierce and fiercer pain, as when is piled</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Brand upon burning brand. But he is gone;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Patience and penance have o'ermastered him.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Princess, the end is reached of our long woes.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That evil one being fled, freeing my will,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>See, I am here; and wherefore would I come,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fairest, except for thee? Yet, answer this:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How should a wife, right-minded to her lord&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her own and lawful lord&mdash;compass to choose</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Another love, as thou, that tremblest, didst?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy messengers over all regions ran,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By the King's name proclaiming: 'Bhima's child</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A second husband chooseth for herself,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whomso she will&mdash;as pleaseth&mdash;being free,'</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Those shameless tidings brought the Raja here</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>At headlong speed&mdash;and me!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 16.5em;'>Tenderly smiled</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Damayanti through her tears, with quivering lips,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And joined palms, answering her aggriev&egrave;d Prince:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Judgest thou me guilty of such a sin?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When for thy sake I put the gods aside&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thee did I choose, Nishadha, my one lord.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In quest of thee did all those Br&aacute;hmans range</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In all ten regions, telling all one tale</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Taught them by me; and so Parn&acirc;da came</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Koshala, where Rituparna dwells,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And found thee in his house, and spake to thee</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Those words, and had thy gentle answer back.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Mine the device was, Prince, to bring thee quick;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For well I wist no man in all this world</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Could in one day the fleetest coursers urge</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So many yojanas, save thou, dear Prince!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I touch thy feet, and tell thee this in truth;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And true it is that never any wrong</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Against thee, even in fancy, have I dreamed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Witness for me, as I am loyal and pure,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The ever-shifting, all-beholding Air,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who wanders o'er the earth; let him withdraw</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My breath and slay me, if I sinned in aught!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Witness for me, yon golden Sun who goes</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With bright eye over us; let him withhold</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Warm life and kill me, if I sinned in aught!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Witness for me the white Moon, whose pale spell</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lies on all flesh and spirit; let that orb</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Deny me peace and end me, if I sinned!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>These be the watchers and the testifiers,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The three chief gods that rule the three wide worlds;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I cry unto them; let them speak for me;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thou shalt hear them answer for my faith,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or once again, this day, abandon me.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Then Vayu showed&mdash;the all-enfolding Air&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And spake: &quot;Not one wrong hath she wrought thee, Prince,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I tell thee sooth. The treasure of her truth</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Faultless and undefiled she hath kept</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By us regarded, and sustained by us,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>These many days. Her tender plot it was,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Planned for thy sake, which brought thee; since who else</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Could in one day drive threescore yojanas?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nala, thou hast thy noble wife again;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou, Damayanti, hast thy Nala back.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Away with doubting; take her to thy breast,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thrice happy Prince!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 13em;'>And while God Vayu spake,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Look! there showered flowers down out of the sky<a name="FNanchor28"></a><a href="#Footnote_28"><sup>[28]</sup></a></span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upon them; and the drums of heaven beat</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Beautiful music, and a gentle wind,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fragrant, propitious, floated, kissing them.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But Nala, when he saw these things befall&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wonderful, gracious&mdash;when he heard that voice</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Called the great snake to memory:&mdash;whereupon</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His proper self returned. Bhima's fair child</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Divinely sounding (Lord of Bh&acirc;rat's line!)&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yielded all doubt of his delightful Love.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then cast he round about his neck the cloth&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unstained by earth, enchanted&mdash;and (O King!)</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Saw her dear lord his beauteous form resume.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Ah, Nala! Nala!&quot; cried she, while her arms</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Clasped him and clung; and Nala to his heart</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Pressed that bright lady, glowing, as of old,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With princely majesty. Their children twain</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Next he caressed; while she&mdash;at happy peace&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her beautiful glad face laid on his breast,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sighing with too much joy. And Nala stood</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A great space silent, gazing on her face,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sorrow-stamped yet, her long, deep-lidded eyes,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her melting smile&mdash;himself 'twixt joy and woe.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Afterwards, all that story of the Prince,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And all of Damayanti, Bhima's Queen</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Told to the Maharaja joyously.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Bhima said: &quot;To-morrow will I see&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When Nala hath his needful offerings made&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Our daughter and this wandering lord well knit.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>But all that night they sat, hand clasped in hand,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rejoicing, and relating what befell</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In the wild wood, and of the woful times.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>That night being spent, Prince Nala in his state</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Led forth Vidarbha's Pride before the court.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Bhima&mdash;in an hour found fortunate&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Re-wed those married lovers. Dutifully</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nala paid homage to the Maharaja,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And reverently did Damayanti bow</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Before her father. He the Prince received</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With grace and gladness, as a son restored,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Making fair welcome, and with words of praise</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Exalting Damayanti, tried and true;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which in all dignity Prince Nala took,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Returning, as was meet, words honorable.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Therewith unto the city spread the noise</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of that rejoicing. All the townspeople,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Learning of Nala joyously returned,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Made all their quarters gay with float of flags,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Flutter of cloths, and garlands; sprinkled free</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The King's-ways with fresh water, and the cups</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of fragrant flowers; and hung long wreaths of flowers.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From door to door the white street-fronts before;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And decked each temple-porch, and went about</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The altar-gods.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And afterwards, in Bhima's royal house</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Serenely dwelled the Princess and the Prince,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each making for the other peaceful joy.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So in the fourth year Nala was rejoined</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Damayanti, comforted and free,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Restful, attained, tasting delights again.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Also the glad Princess, gaining her lord,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Laid sorrows by, and blossomed forth anew,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As doth the laughing earth when the rain falls,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And brings her unseen, waiting wonders forth</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of blade and flower and fruit. The ache was gone,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The loneliness and load. Heart-full of ease,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lovelier she grew and brighter, like the moon</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Mounting at midnight in the cloudless blue.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 10em;'>When Rituparna heard</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How Vah&ucirc;ka is Nala in disguise,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And of the meeting, right rejoiced at heart</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That Raja grew. And, being softly prayed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By Nala favorable thought, the King</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Made royal and gentle answer, with like grace</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By Nala met. To whom spake Rituparna:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Joy go with thee and her, happily joined.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But say, Nishadha, wrought I any jot</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wrongful to thee, whilst sojourning unknown</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Within my walls? If any word or deed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Purposed or purposeless, hath vexed thee, friend,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For one and all thy pardon grant to me!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And Nala answered: &quot;Never act or word,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The smallest, Raja, lingers to excuse!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If this were otherwise, thy slave was I,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And might not question, but must pardon thee.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yet good to me thou wert, princely and just,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And kind thou art; and friendly from this time</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Deign thou to be. Happily was I lodged,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Well-tended, well-befriended in thy house;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In mine own palace never better stead.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The skill in steeds which pleased thee, that is mine,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, Raja, I will give it all to thee,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If thou art minded.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 12.5em;'>So Nishadha gave</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All his great gift in horses to the King,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who learned each rule approved, and ordinance;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, having all this knowledge, gave in turn</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His deepest lore of numbers and the dice</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Nala, afterwards departing home</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To his own place, another charioteer</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Driving his steeds; and, Rituparna gone,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Not long did Nala dwell in Bhima's town.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>When one moon he had tarried, taking leave,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nishadha to his city started forth</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With chosen train. A shining car he drove;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And elephants sixteen, and fifty horse,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And footmen thirty-score came in the rear.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Swiftly did Nala journey, making earth</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Quake 'neath his flying car; and wrathfully</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With quick steps entered he his palace doors.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The son of Virasena, Nala, stood</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Once more before that gamester Pushkara!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Spake he: &quot;Play yet again; much wealth is mine,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And that, and all I have&mdash;yea, my Princess&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Set I for stakes: set thou this realm, and throw!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My mind is fixed a second chance to try,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where, Pushkara, we will play for all or none.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who wins his throne and treasures from a prince,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Must stand the hazard of the counter-cast&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This is the accepted law. If thou dost blench,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The next game we will play is 'life or death,'</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In chariot-fight; when, or of thee or me</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One shall lie satisfied: 'Descended realms,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By whatsoever means, are to be sought,'</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The sages say, 'by whatsoever won.'</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Choose, therefore, Pushkara, which way of these</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shall please thee; either meet me with the dice,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or with thy bow confront me in the field.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>When Pushkara this heard, lightly he smiled,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Concluding victory sure; and to the Prince</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Answered, exulting: &quot;<i>Dishtya</i>! hast thou gained</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Stakes for a counter-game, Nishadha, now?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'><i>Dishtya</i>! shall I have my hard-won prize,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sweet Damayanti? <i>Dishtya</i>! didst thou come</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In kissing-reach again of thy fair wife?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Soon, in thy new gold splendid, she shall shine</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Before all men beside me, as in heaven</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On Sakra waits the loveliest Apsar&acirc;.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>See, now, I thought on thee, I looked for thee,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ever and ever, Prince. There is no joy</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like casting in the game with such as thee.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And when to-day I win thy blameless one&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The smooth-limbed Damayanti&mdash;then shall be</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What was to be: and I can rest content,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For always in my heart her beauty burns.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Listening the idle talk that babbler poured,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Angry Prince Nala fain had lopped away</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His head with vengeful <i>khudga;</i><a name="FNanchor29"></a><a href="#Footnote_29"><sup>[29]</sup></a> but, unmoved,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Albeit the wrath blazed in his bloodshot eyes,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He made reply: &quot;Play! mock me not with jests;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou wilt not jest when I have cast with thee!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>So was the game set, and the Princes threw</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nala and Pushkara, and&mdash;the numbers named&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By Nala was the hazard gained: he swept</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His brother's stake, gems, treasure, kingdom, off;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>At one stroke all that mighty venture won.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Then quoth the conquering Prince to Pushkara,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Scornfully smiling: &quot;Mine is now once more</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nishadha's throne; mine is the realm again,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Its curse plucked forth; Vidarbha's glory thou,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Outcast, shalt ne'er so much as look upon!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fool! who to-day becom'st her bond and slave.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Not by thy gifts that evil stroke was wrought</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wherefrom I fled before; 'twas Kali's spell&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Albeit thou knew'st nought, fool&mdash;overmastered me;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yet will I visit not in wrathful wise</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My wrong on thee; live as thou wilt; I grant</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wherewith to live, and set apart henceforth</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy proper goods and substance, and fit food.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nay, doubt not I shall show thee favor, too,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And be in friendship with thee, if thou wilt,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who art my brother. Peace abide with thee!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Thus all-victorious Nala comforted</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His brother, and embraced him, sending him</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In honor to his town; and Pushkara&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gently entreated&mdash;to Nishadha spake,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With folded palms and humbled face, these words:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Unending be thy glory. May thy bliss</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Last and increase for twice five thousand years,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who grantest me wherewith to live, just Lord!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And where to dwell.&quot; Thereafter, well bested,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Pushkara sojourned with the Prince one moon;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So to his town departed&mdash;heart-content&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With slaves and foot-soldiers and followers,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gay as a rising sun (O Bh&acirc;rat's glory!).</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus sent he Pushkara, rich and safe, away.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then, with flags and drums and jewels, robed and royally arrayed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nala into fair Nishadha entry high and dazzling made;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>At the gates the Raja, halting, spake his people words of love;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gathered were they from the city, gathered from the field and grove;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From the mountain and the maidan, all a-thrill with joy to see</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nala come to guard his children. &quot;Happy now our days will be,&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Said the townsfolk, said the elders, said the villagers, &quot;O King!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Standing all with palms upfolded: &quot;Peace and fortune thou wilt bring</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To thy city, to thy country! Boundless welcome do we give,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As the gods in heaven to Indra, when with them he comes to live.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>After, when the show was ended, and the city, calm and glad,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rest from tumult of rejoicing and rich flood of feasting had,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Girt with shining squadrons, Nala fetched his pearl of women home.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like a queen did Damayanti back unto her palace come,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By the Maharaja Bhima, by that mighty monarch sent</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Royally, with countless blessings, to her kingdom, in content.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>There, beside his peerless Princess, and his children, bore he sway,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Godlike, even as Indra ruling 'mid the bliss of Nandana.<a name="FNanchor30"></a><a href="#Footnote_30"><sup>[30]</sup></a></span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bore he sway&mdash;my noble Nala&mdash;princeliest of all lords&mdash;who reign</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In the lands of Jambudwipa;<a name="FNanchor31"></a><a href="#Footnote_31"><sup>[31]</sup></a> winning power and fame again;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ruling well his realm reconquered, like a just and perfect king,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All the appointed gifts bestowing, all the rites remembering.</span><br />
+<br /></div>
+
+
+
+<hr style='width: 65%;' />
+<a name='THE_RAMAYANA'></a><h2>SELECTIONS FROM THE R&Aacute;M&Aacute;YANA</h2>
+
+<h4>BY</h4>
+
+<h3>V&Aacute;LM&Iacute;KI</h3>
+<br />
+
+<h4>[<i>Metrical translation by R.T.H. Griffiths</i>]</h4>
+<br />
+
+<a name='SFR_INTRODUCTION'></a><h3>INTRODUCTION</h3>
+<br />
+
+<p>The ideas of the human family are few, as is apparent from the study of
+the literature of widely different nations. Thus the &quot;R&aacute;m&aacute;yana&quot; ranks in
+Hindoo with the &quot;Iliad&quot; and the &quot;Odyssey&quot; in Greek literature. The
+character of R&aacute;ma corresponds with that of Menelaus, for both the
+European and the Asiatic heroes have had their wives carried off from
+them&mdash;although S&iacute;t&aacute;, the bride of R&aacute;ma, is chaste as an icicle from
+Diana's temple, while Helen is the infamous type of wanton wives,
+ancient and modern. The Hindoo Lanka is Troy, and Ayodhy&aacute; is Sparta. The
+material civilization of the cities in the Hindoo epic is more luxurious
+and gorgeous than that which Homer attributes to Greece in the heroic
+age. Such splendor and refinement as invests social life at Lanka and
+Ayodhy&aacute; never appear amid the severe simplicity of Argos or Troy. The
+moral tone seems perhaps higher in India than in Greece during the
+periods described in their several epics&mdash;at least as far as mutual love
+and forbearance go&mdash;and the ideas of marriage and conjugal fidelity are
+equally exalted.</p>
+
+<p>As to the literary quality of the Hindoo epic in comparison with Homer's
+work, we are at once impressed with the immense superiority of the Greek
+poem in artistic proportion, point, and precision. The Hindoo poet
+flounders along, amid a maze of prolix description and wearisome simile.
+Trifles are amplified and repeated, and the whole poem resembles a wild
+forest abounding in rich tropical vegetation, palms and flowers, but
+without paths, roads, or limits. Or rather, we are reminded of one of
+the highly painted and richly decorated idols of India, with their many
+heads and many hands: but when we turn to the Greek epic we stand before
+a statue of pure outline, flawless proportions, and more than human
+beauty.</p>
+
+<p>It is difficult to fix the date of the &quot;R&aacute;m&aacute;yana.&quot; Scholars generally
+agree that it belongs to the third century before Christ, in its
+original form, but that some recent portions were added even during the
+Christian era. It is reckoned as one of the sacred books, and the study
+of it is supposed to bring forgiveness of sin, and prosperity. Its
+author is thought to have been the famous poet V&aacute;lm&iacute;ki, but the work has
+evidently been rehandled several times, and there are three versions of
+the poems still extant. The poem consists of twenty-four thousand
+verses, and the story of it&mdash;now overlaid as it is with extravagant and
+fabulous accretions&mdash;is evidently founded on fact. The scene of the poem
+is laid in the city of Ayodhy&aacute;, the modern Oudh, which is described in
+glowing colors as a place of health, beauty, and prosperity&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;In by-gone ages built and planned</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By sainted Manu's princely hand.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>In the splendid palace of the Rajah, at Oudh, lives Da&#347;aratha, mourning
+in childlessness. He is one of the princes descended from the sun, and
+his line now threatens to become extinct. He determines to appeal to the
+Gods by the Asva-medha, the great sacrifice in which a horse is the
+victim. The rites accordingly are performed with unparalleled
+magnificence, and, at the close of the ceremony, the high priest
+declares to the king&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Four sons, O Monarch, shall be thine,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upholders of the royal line.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Among the offspring duly granted to Da&#347;aratha is R&aacute;ma, who is a typical
+Hindoo of the heroic type. His fair wife, S&iacute;t&aacute;, is carried off by the
+demon Ravana, who had assumed the form of a humble priest, or ascetic,
+in order to gain access to her. He carries her in his chariot to Lanka,
+the fair city built on an island of the sea. By the assistance of a
+large army of monkeys, R&aacute;ma marches against Lanka, and when they stand
+helpless&mdash;for the water separates them from Ceylon&mdash;he then invokes the
+goddess of the sea, as Achilles did Thetis, and she comes in radiant
+beauty, telling them how to bridge the waves. The monkeys bring timber
+and stones, the bridge is built, Lanka reached, and the battle begins.
+Indra sends his own chariot down from heaven to R&aacute;ma, who mounts it, and
+vanquishes Ravana in single combat, upon which S&iacute;t&aacute; is restored to her
+husband. E.W.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style='width: 65%;' />
+<h2>THE R&Aacute;M&Aacute;YANA</h2>
+
+<a name='INVOCATION'></a><h4>INVOCATION</h4>
+
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Praise to V&aacute;lm&iacute;ki, bird of charming song,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who mounts on Poesy's sublimest spray,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And sweetly sings with accent clear and strong</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>R&aacute;ma, aye R&aacute;ma, in his deathless lay.</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where breathes the man can listen to the strain</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That flows in music from V&aacute;lm&iacute;ki's tongue,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor feel his feet the path of bliss attain</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When R&aacute;ma's glory by the saint is sung?</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The stream R&aacute;m&aacute;yan leaves its sacred fount</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The whole wide world from sin and stain to free.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Prince of Hermits is the parent mount,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The lordly R&aacute;ma is the darling sea.</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Glory to him whose fame is ever bright!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Glory to him, Prachet's holy son!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whose pure lips quaff with ever-new delight</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The nectar-sea of deeds by R&aacute;ma done.</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hail, arch-ascetic, pious, good, and kind!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hail, Saint V&aacute;lm&iacute;ki, lord of every lore!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hail, holy Hermit, calm and pure of mind!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hail, First of Bards, V&aacute;lm&iacute;ki, hail once more!</span><br />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<h2>BOOK I</h2>
+
+<a name='CANTO_I'></a><h3>CANTO I</h3>
+
+<h4>NARAD</h4>
+
+<h5><i>Om</i>.</h5>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To sainted N&aacute;rad, prince of those</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whose lore in words of wisdom flows,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whose constant care and chief delight</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Were Scripture and ascetic rite,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The good V&aacute;lm&iacute;ki, first and best</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of hermit saints, these words addressed:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;In all this world, I pray thee, who</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is virtuous, heroic, true?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Firm in his vows, of grateful mind,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To every creature good and kind?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bounteous, and holy, just, and wise,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Alone most fair to all men's eyes?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Devoid of envy, firm, and sage,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whose tranquil soul ne'er yields to rage?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whom, when his warrior wrath is high,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Do Gods embattled fear and fly?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whose noble might and gentle skill</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The triple world can guard from ill?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who is the best of princes, he</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who loves his people's good to see?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The store of bliss, the living mine</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where brightest joys and virtues shine?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Queen Fortune's best and dearest friend,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whose steps her choicest gifts attend?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who may with Sun and Moon compare,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With Indra, Vishnu, Fire, and Air?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Grant, Saint divine, the boon I ask,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For thee, I ween, an easy task,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To whom the power is given to know</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If such a man breathe here below.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then N&aacute;rad, clear before whose eye</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The present, past, and future lie,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Made ready answer: &quot;Hermit, where</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Are graces found so high and rare?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yet listen, and my tongue shall tell</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In whom alone these virtues dwell.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From old Ikshv&aacute;ku's line he came,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Known to the world by R&aacute;ma's name:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With soul subdued, a chief of might,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In Scripture versed, in glory bright.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His steps in virtue's paths are bent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Obedient, pure, and eloquent.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In each emprise he wins success,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And dying foes his power confess.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Tall and broad-shouldered, strong of limb,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fortune has set her mark on him.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Graced with a conch-shell's triple line,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His throat displays the auspicious sign.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>High destiny is clear impressed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On massive jaw and ample chest.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His mighty shafts he truly aims,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And foemen in the battle tames.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Deep in the muscle, scarcely shown,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Embedded lies his collar-bone.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His lordly steps are firm and free,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His strong arms reach below his knee;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All fairest graces join to deck</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His head, his brow, his stately neck,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And limbs in fair proportion set:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The manliest form e'er fashioned yet.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Graced with each high imperial mark,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His skin is soft and lustrous dark.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Large are his eyes that sweetly shine</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With majesty almost divine.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His plighted word he ne'er forgets;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On erring sense a watch he sets.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By nature wise, his teacher's skill</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Has trained him to subdue his will.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Good, resolute and pure, and strong,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He guards mankind from scathe and wrong,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And lends his aid, and ne'er in vain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The cause of justice to maintain.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Well has he studied o'er and o'er</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Vedas and their kindred lore.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Well skilled is he the bow to draw,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Well trained in arts and versed in law;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>High-souled and meet for happy fate,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Most tender and compassionate;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The noblest of all lordly givers,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whom good men follow, as the rivers</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Follow the King of Floods, the sea:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So liberal, so just is he.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The joy of Queen Kau&#347;aly&aacute;'s heart,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In every virtue he has part;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Firm as Him&aacute;laya's snowy steep,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unfathomed like the mighty deep;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The peer of Vishnu's power and might,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And lovely as the Lord of Night;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Patient as Earth, but, roused to ire,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fierce as the world-destroying fire;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In bounty like the Lord of Gold,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Justice' self in human mould.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With him, his best and eldest son,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By all his princely virtues won</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>King Da&#347;aratha willed to share</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His kingdom as the Regent Heir.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But when Kaikey&iacute;, youngest queen,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With eyes of envious hate had seen</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The solemn pomp and regal state</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Prepared the prince to consecrate,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She bade the hapless king bestow</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Two gifts he promised long ago,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That R&aacute;ma to the woods should flee,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And that her child the heir should be.</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By chains of duty firmly tied,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The wretched King perforce complied.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>R&aacute;ma, to please Kaikey&iacute; went</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Obedient forth, to banishment.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then Lakshman's truth was nobly shown,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then were his love and courage known,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When for his brother's sake he dared</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All perils, and his exile shared.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And S&iacute;t&aacute;, R&aacute;ma's darling wife,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Loved even as he loved his life,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whom happy marks combined to bless,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A miracle of loveliness,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Janak's royal lineage sprung,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Most excellent of women, clung</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To her dear lord, like Rohin&iacute;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rejoicing with the Moon to be.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The King and people, sad of mood,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hero's car awhile pursued.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But when Prince R&aacute;ma lighted down</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>At &#346;ringavera's pleasant town,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where Gang&aacute;'s holy waters flow,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He bade his driver turn and go.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Guha, Nish&aacute;das' King, he met,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And on the farther bank was set.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then on from wood to wood they strayed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>O'er many a stream, through constant shade,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As Bharadv&aacute;ja bade them, till</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They came to Chitrak&uacute;ta's hill.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And R&aacute;ma there, with Lakshman's aid,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A pleasant little cottage made,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And spent his days with S&iacute;t&aacute;, dressed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In coat of bark and deerskin vest.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Chitrak&uacute;ta grew to be</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As bright with those illustrious three</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As Meru's sacred peaks that shine</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With glory, when the Gods recline</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Beneath them: &#346;iva's self between</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Lord of Gold and Beauty's Queen.</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The aged King for R&aacute;ma pined,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And for the skies the earth resigned.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bharat, his son, refused to reign,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Though urged by all the twice-born train.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Forth to the woods he fared to meet</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His brother, fell before his feet,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And cried &quot;Thy claim all men allow:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>O come, our lord and King be thou.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But R&aacute;ma nobly chose to be</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Observant of his sire's decree.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He placed his sandals in his hand,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A pledge that he would rule the land:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And bade his brother turn again.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then Bharat, finding prayer was vain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The sandals took and went away;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor in Ayodhy&aacute; would he stay,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But turned to Nandigr&aacute;ma, where</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He ruled the realm with watchful care,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Still longing eagerly to learn</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Tidings of R&aacute;ma's safe return.</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then lest the people should repeat</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their visit to his calm retreat,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Away from Chitrak&uacute;ta's hill</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fared R&aacute;ma, ever onward till</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Beneath the shady trees he stood</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Dandak&aacute;'s primeval wood.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vir&aacute;dha, giant fiend, he slew,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And then Agastya's friendship knew.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Counselled by him he gained the sword</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And bow of Indra, heavenly lord:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A pair of quivers too, that bore</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of arrows an exhaustless store.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While there he dwelt in greenwood shade,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The trembling hermits sought his aid,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And bade him with his sword and bow</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Destroy the fiends who worked them woe:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To come like Indra strong and brave,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A guardian God to help and save.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And R&aacute;ma's falchion left its trace</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Deep cut on S&uacute;rpanakh&aacute;'s face:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A hideous giantess who came</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Burning for him with lawless flame.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their sister's cries the giants heard,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And vengeance in each bosom stirred;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The monster of the triple head,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And D&uacute;shan to the contest sped.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But they and myriad fiends beside</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Beneath the might of R&aacute;ma died.</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When R&aacute;van, dreaded warrior, knew</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The slaughter of his giant crew&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>R&aacute;van, the King, whose name of fear</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Earth, hell, and heaven all shook to hear&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He bade the fiend M&aacute;r&iacute;cha aid</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The vengeful plot his fury laid.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In vain the wise M&aacute;r&iacute;cha tried</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To turn him from his course aside:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Not R&aacute;van's self, he said, might hope</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With R&aacute;ma and his strength to cope.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Impelled by fate and blind with rage</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He came to R&aacute;ma's hermitage.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>There, by M&aacute;r&iacute;cha's magic art,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He wiled the princely youths apart,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The vulture slew, and bore away</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The wife of R&aacute;ma as his prey.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The son of Raghu came and found</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Jat&aacute;yu slain upon the ground.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He rushed within his leafy cot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He sought his wife, but found her not.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then, then the hero's senses failed;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In mad despair he wept and wailed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upon the pile that bird he laid,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And still in quest of S&iacute;t&aacute; strayed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A hideous giant then he saw,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Kabandha named, a shape of awe.</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The monstrous fiend he smote and slew,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And in the flame the body threw;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When straight from out the funeral flame</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In lovely form Kabandha came,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And bade him seek in his distress</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A wise and holy hermitess.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By counsel of this saintly dame</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Pamp&aacute;'s pleasant flood he came,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And there the steadfast friendship won</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Hanum&aacute;n the Wind-God's son.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Counselled by him he told his grief</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To great Sugr&iacute;va, V&aacute;nar chief,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who, knowing all the tale, before</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The sacred flame alliance swore.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sugr&iacute;va to his new-found friend</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Told his own story to the end:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His hate of B&aacute;li for the wrong</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And insult he had borne so long.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And R&aacute;ma lent a willing ear</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And promised to allay his fear.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sugr&iacute;va warned him of the might</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of B&aacute;li, matchless in the fight,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, credence for his tale to gain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Showed the huge fiend by B&aacute;li slain.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The prostrate corse of mountain size</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Seemed nothing in the hero's eyes;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He lightly kicked it, as it lay,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And cast it twenty leagues away.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To prove his might his arrows through</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Seven palms in line, uninjured, flew.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He cleft a mighty hill apart,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And down to hell he hurled his dart.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then high Sugr&iacute;va's spirit rose,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Assured of conquest o'er his foes.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With his new champion by his side</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To vast Kishkindh&aacute;'s cave he hied.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then, summoned by his awful shout,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>King B&aacute;li came in fury out,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>First comforted his trembling wife,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then sought Sugr&iacute;va in the strife.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One shaft from R&aacute;ma's deadly bow</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The monarch in the dust laid low.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then R&aacute;ma bade Sugr&iacute;va reign</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In place of royal B&aacute;li slain.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then speedy envoys hurried forth</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Eastward and westward, south and north,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Commanded by the grateful King</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Tidings of R&aacute;ma's spouse to bring.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then by Samp&aacute;ti's counsel led,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Brave Hanum&aacute;n, who mocked at dread,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sprang at one wild tremendous leap</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Two hundred leagues, across the deep.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Lank&aacute;'s<a name="FNanchor32"></a><a href="#Footnote_32"><sup>[32]</sup></a> town he urged his way,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where R&aacute;van held his royal sway.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>There pensive 'neath A&#347;oka boughs</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He found poor S&iacute;t&aacute;, R&aacute;ma's spouse.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He gave the hapless girl a ring,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A token from her lord and King.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A pledge from her fair hand he bore;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then battered down the garden door.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Five captains of the host he slew,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Seven sons of councillors o'erthrew;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Crushed youthful Aksha on the field,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then to his captors chose to yield.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Soon from their bonds his limbs were free,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But honoring the high decree</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which Brahm&aacute; had pronounced of yore,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He calmly all their insults bore.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The town he burnt with hostile flame,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And spoke again with R&aacute;ma's dame,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then swiftly back to R&aacute;ma flew</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With tidings of the interview.</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then with Sugr&iacute;va for his guide,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Came R&aacute;ma to the ocean side.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He smote the sea with shafts as bright</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As sunbeams in their summer height,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And quick appeared the River's King</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Obedient to the summoning.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A bridge was thrown by Nala o'er</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The narrow sea from shore to shore.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They crossed to Lank&aacute;'s golden town,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where R&aacute;ma's hand smote R&aacute;van down.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vibh&iacute;shan there was left to reign</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Over his brother's wide domain.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To meet her husband S&iacute;t&aacute; came;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But R&aacute;ma, stung with ire and shame,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With bitter words his wife addressed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Before the crowd that round her pressed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But S&iacute;t&aacute;, touched with noble ire,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gave her fair body to the fire.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then straight the God of Wind appeared,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And words from heaven her honor cleared.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And R&aacute;ma clasped his wife again,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Uninjured, pure from spot and stain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Obedient to the Lord of Fire</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And the high mandate of his sire.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Led by the Lord who rules the sky,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Gods and heavenly saints drew nigh,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And honored him with worthy meed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rejoicing in each glorious deed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His task achieved, his foe removed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He triumphed, by the Gods approved.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By grace of Heaven he raised to life</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The chieftains slain in mortal strife;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then in the magic chariot through</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The clouds to Nandigr&aacute;ma flew.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Met by his faithful brothers there,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He loosed his votive coil of hair;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thence fair Ayodhy&aacute;'s town he gained,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And o'er his father's kingdom reigned.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Disease or famine ne'er oppressed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His happy people, richly blest</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With all the joys of ample wealth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of sweet content and perfect health.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No widow mourned her well-loved mate,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No sire his son's untimely fate.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They feared not storm or robber's hand,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No fire or flood laid waste the land:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Golden Age seemed come again</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To bless the days of R&aacute;ma's reign.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From him the great and glorious King,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shall many a princely scion spring.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And he shall rule, beloved by men,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ten thousand years and hundreds ten,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And when his life on earth is past</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Brahm&aacute;'s world shall go at last.</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whoe'er this noble poem reads</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That tells the tale of R&aacute;ma's deeds,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Good as the Scriptures, he shall be</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From every sin and blemish free.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whoever reads the saving strain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With all his kin the heavens shall gain.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Br&aacute;hmans who read shall gather hence</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The highest praise for eloquence.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The warrior, o'er the land shall reign,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The merchant, luck in trade obtain;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And S&uacute;dras, listening, ne'er shall fail</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To reap advantage from the tale.</span><br />
+</div>
+<h5>[<i>Cantos II., III., IV., and V. are omitted</i>.]</h5>
+
+
+
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_VI'></a><h3>CANTO VI</h3>
+
+<h4>THE KING</h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>There reigned a King of name revered,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To country and to town endeared,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Great Da&#347;aratha, good and sage,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Well read in Scripture's holy page:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upon his kingdom's weal intent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Mighty and brave and provident;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The pride of old Ikshv&aacute;ku's seed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For lofty thought and righteous deed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Peer of the saints, for virtues famed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For foes subdued and passions tamed;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A rival in his wealth untold</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Indra and the Lord of Gold.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like Manu first of kings, he reigned,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And worthily his state maintained.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For firm and just and ever true</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Love, duty, gain, he kept in view,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And ruled his city rich and free,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like Indra's Amar&aacute;vat&iacute;.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And worthy of so fair a place</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>There dwelt a just and happy race</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With troops of children blest.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each man contented sought no more,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor longed with envy for the store</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By richer friends possessed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For poverty was there unknown,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And each man counted as his own</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Kine, steeds, and gold, and grain.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All dressed in raiment bright and clean,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And every townsman might be seen</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With ear-rings, wreath or chain.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>None deigned to feed on broken fare,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And none was false or stingy there.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A piece of gold, the smallest pay,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was earned by labor for a day.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On every arm were bracelets worn,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And none was faithless or forsworn,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A braggart or unkind.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>None lived upon another's wealth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>None pined with dread or broken health,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or dark disease of mind.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>High-souled were all. The slanderous word,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The boastful lie, were never heard.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each man was constant to his vows,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And lived devoted to his spouse.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No other love his fancy knew,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And she was tender, kind, and true.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her dames were fair of form and face,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With charm of wit and gentle grace,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With modest raiment simply neat,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And winning manners soft and sweet.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The twice-born sages, whose delight</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was Scripture's page and holy rite,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their calm and settled course pursued,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor sought the menial multitude.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In many a Scripture each was versed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And each the flame of worship nursed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And gave with lavish hand.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each paid to Heaven the offerings due,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And none was godless or untrue</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In all that holy band.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Br&aacute;hmans, as the laws ordain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Warrior caste were ever fain</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The reverence due to pay;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And these the Vai&#347;yas' peaceful crowd,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who trade and toil for gain, were proud</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To honor and obey;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And all were by the S&uacute;dras served,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who never from their duty swerved.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their proper worship all addressed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Br&aacute;hman, spirits, God, and guest.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Pure and unmixt their rites remained,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their race's honor ne'er was stained.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Cheered by his grandsons, sons, and wife,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each passed a long and happy life.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus was that famous city held</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By one who all his race excelled,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Blest in his gentle reign,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As the whole land aforetime swayed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By Manu, prince of men, obeyed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her king from main to main.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And heroes kept her, strong and brave,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As lions guard their mountain cave;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fierce as devouring flame they burned,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And fought till death, but never turned.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Horses had she of noblest breed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like Indra's for their form and speed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From V&aacute;hli's hills and Sindhu's sand,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Van&aacute;yu and K&aacute;mboja's land.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her noble elephants had strayed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Through Vindhyan and Him&aacute;layan shade,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gigantic in their bulk and height,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yet gentle in their matchless might.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They rivalled well the world-spread fame</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of the great stock from which they came,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of V&aacute;man, vast of size,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Mah&aacute;padma's glorious line,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thine, Anjan, and, Air&aacute;vat, thine,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upholders of the skies.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With those, enrolled in fourfold class,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who all their mighty kin surpass,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whom men Matangas name,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Mrigas spotted black and white,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Bhadras of unwearied might,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Mandras hard to tame.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus, worthy of the name she bore,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ayodhy&aacute; for a league or more</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Cast a bright glory round,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where Da&#347;aratha wise and great</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Governed his fair ancestral state,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With every virtue crowned.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like Indra in the skies he reigned</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In that good town whose wall contained</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>High domes and turrets proud,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With gates and arcs of triumph decked,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And sturdy barriers to protect</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her gay and countless crowd.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_VII'></a><h3>CANTO VII</h3>
+
+<h4>THE MINISTERS</h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Two sages, holy saints, had he,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His ministers and priests to be:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Va&#347;ishtha, faithful to advise,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And V&aacute;madeva, Scripture-wise.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Eight other lords around him stood,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All skilled to counsel, wise and good:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Jayanta, Vijay, Dhrishti bold</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In fight, affairs of war controlled;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Siddh&aacute;rth and Arthas&aacute;dhak true</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Watched o'er expense and revenue,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Dharmap&aacute;l and wise A&#347;ok</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of right and law and justice spoke.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With these the sage Sumantra, skilled</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To urge the car, high station filled.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All these in knowledge duly trained</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each passion and each sense restrained:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With modest manners, nobly bred,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each plan and nod and look they read,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upon their neighbors' good intent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Most active and benevolent;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As sits the Vasus round their King,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They sate around him counselling.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They ne'er in virtue's loftier pride</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Another's lowly gifts decried.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In fair and seemly garb arrayed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No weak uncertain plans they made.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Well skilled in business, fair and just,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They gained the people's love and trust,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thus without oppression stored</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The swelling treasury of their lord.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bound in sweet friendship each to each,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They spoke kind thoughts in gentle speech.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They looked alike with equal eye</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On every caste, on low and high.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Devoted to their King, they sought,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ere his tongue spoke, to learn his thought,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And knew, as each occasion rose,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To hide their counsel or disclose.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In foreign lands or in their own</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whatever passed, to them was known.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By secret spies they timely knew</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What men were doing or would do.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Skilled in the grounds of war and peace</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They saw the monarch's state increase,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Watching his weal with conquering eye</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That never let occasion by,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While nature lent her aid to bless</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their labors with unbought success.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Never for anger, lust, or gain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Would they their lips with falsehood stain.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Inclined to mercy they could scan</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The weakness and the strength of man.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They fairly judged both high and low,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And ne'er would wrong a guiltless foe;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yet if a fault were proved, each one</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Would punish e'en his own dear son.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But there and in the kingdom's bound</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No thief or man impure was found:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>None of loose life or evil fame,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No tempter of another's dame.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Contented with their lot each caste</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Calm days in blissful quiet passed;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, all in fitting tasks employed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Country and town deep rest enjoyed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With these wise lords around his throne</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The monarch justly reigned,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And making every heart his own</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The love of all men gained.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With trusty agents, as beseems,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each distant realm he scanned,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As the sun visits with his beams</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each corner of the land.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ne'er would he on a mightier foe</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With hostile troops advance,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor at an equal strike a blow</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In war's delusive chance.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>These lords in council bore their part</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With ready brain and faithful heart,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With skill and knowledge, sense and tact,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Good to advise and bold to act.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And high and endless fame he won</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With these to guide his schemes&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As, risen in his might, the sun</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wins glory with his beams.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_VIII'></a><h3>CANTO VIII</h3>
+
+<h4>SUMANTRA'S SPEECH</h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But splendid, just, and great of mind,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The childless King for offspring pined.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No son had he his name to grace,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Transmitter of his royal race.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Long had his anxious bosom wrought,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And as he pondered rose the thought:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;A votive steed 'twere good to slay,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So might a son the gift repay.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Before his lords his plans he laid,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And bade them with their wisdom aid;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then with these words Sumantra, best</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of royal counsellors, addressed:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Hither, Va&#347;ishtha at their head,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Let all my priestly guides be led.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To him Sumantra made reply:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Hear, sire, a tale of days gone by.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To many a sage in time of old,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sanatkum&aacute;r, the saint, foretold</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How from thine ancient line, O King,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A son, when years came round, should spring</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Here dwells,' 'twas thus the seer began,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Of Ka&#347;yap's race, a holy man,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vibh&aacute;ndak named: to him shall spring</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A son, the famous Rishya&#347;ring.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bred with the deer that round him roam,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The wood shall be that hermit's home.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To him no mortal shall be known</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Except his holy sire alone.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Still by those laws shall he abide</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which lives of youthful Br&aacute;hmans guide,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Obedient to the strictest rule</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That forms the young ascetic's school:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And all the wondering world shall hear</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of his stern life and penance drear;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His care to nurse the holy fire</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And do the bidding of his sire.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then, seated on the Angas' throne,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shall Lomap&aacute;d to fame be known.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But folly wrought by that great King</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A plague upon the land shall bring;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No rain for many a year shall fall</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And grievous drought shall ruin all.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The troubled King with many a prayer</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shall bid the priests some cure declare:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;The lore of Heaven 'tis yours to know,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor are ye blind to things below:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Declare, O holy men, the way</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This plague to expiate and stay.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Those best of Br&aacute;hmans shall reply:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;By every art, O Monarch, try,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hither to bring Vibh&aacute;ndak's child,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Persuaded, captured, or beguiled.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And when the boy is hither led</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To him thy daughter duly wed.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But how to bring that wondrous boy</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His troubled thoughts will long employ,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And hopeless to achieve the task</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He counsel of his lords will ask,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And bid his priests and servants bring</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With honor saintly Rishya&#347;ring.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But when they hear the monarch's speech,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All these their master will beseech,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With trembling hearts and looks of woe,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To spare them, for they fear to go.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And many a plan will they declare</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And crafty plots will frame,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And promise fair to show him there,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unforced, with none to blame.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On every word his lords shall say,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The King will meditate,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And on the third returning day</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Recall them to debate.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then this shall be the plan agreed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That damsels shall be sent</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Attired in holy hermits' weed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And skilled in blandishment,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That they the hermit may beguile</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With every art and amorous wile</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whose use they know so well,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And by their witcheries seduce</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The unsuspecting young recluse</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To leave his father's cell.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then when the boy with willing feet</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shall wander from his calm retreat</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And in that city stand,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The troubles of the King shall end,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And streams of blessed rain descend</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upon the thirsty land.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus shall the holy Rishya&#347;ring</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Lomap&aacute;d, the mighty King,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By wedlock be allied;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For &#346;&aacute;nt&aacute;, fairest of the fair,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In mind and grace beyond compare,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shall be his royal bride.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He, at the Offering of the Steed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The flames with holy oil shall feed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And for King Da&#347;aratha gain</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sons whom his prayers have begged in vain,'</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I have repeated, sire, thus far,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The words of old Sanatkum&aacute;r,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In order as he spoke them then</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Amid the crowd of holy men.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then Da&#347;aratha cried with joy,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Say how they brought the hermit boy.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_IX'></a><h3>CANTO IX</h3>
+
+<h4>RISHYA&#346;RING</h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The wise Sumantra, thus addressed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unfolded at the King's behest</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The plan the lords in council laid</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To draw the hermit from the shade.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The priest, amid the lordly crowd,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Lomap&aacute;d thus spoke aloud:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Hear, King, the plot our thoughts have framed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A harmless trick by all unblamed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Far from the world that hermit's child</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lives lonely in the distant wild:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A stranger to the joys of sense,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His bliss is pain and abstinence;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And all unknown are women yet</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To him, a holy anchoret.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The gentle passions we will wake</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That with resistless influence shake</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hearts of men; and he</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Drawn by enchantment strong and sweet</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shall follow from his lone retreat,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And come and visit thee.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Let ships be formed with utmost care</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That artificial trees may bear,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And sweet fruit deftly made;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Let goodly raiment, rich and rare,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And flowers, and many a bird be there</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Beneath the leafy shade.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upon the ships thus decked a band</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of young and lovely girls shall stand,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rich in each charm that wakes desire,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And eyes that burn with amorous fire;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Well skilled to sing, and play, and dance,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And ply their trade with smile and glance.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Let these, attired in hermits' dress,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Betake them to the wilderness,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And bring the boy of life austere</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A voluntary captive here,&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He ended; and the King agreed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By the priest's counsel won,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And all the ministers took heed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To see his bidding done.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In ships with wondrous art prepared</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Away the lovely women fared,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And soon beneath the shade they stood</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of the wild, lonely, dreary wood.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And there the leafy cot they found</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where dwelt the devotee.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And looked with eager eyes around</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hermit's son to see.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Still, of Vibh&aacute;ndak sore afraid,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They hid behind the creeper's shade.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But when by careful watch they knew</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The elder saint was far from view,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With bolder steps they ventured nigh</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To catch the youthful hermit's eye.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then all the damsels blithe and gay,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>At various games began to play.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They tossed the flying ball about</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With dance and song and merry shout,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And moved, their scented tresses bound</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With wreaths, in mazy motions round.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Some girls as if by love possessed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sank to the earth in feigned unrest,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Up-starting quickly to pursue</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their intermitted game anew.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>It was a lovely sight to see</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Those fair ones, as they played,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While fragrant robes were floating free,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And bracelets clashing in their glee</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A pleasant tinkling made.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The anklet's chime, the Ko&iuml;l's cry</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With music filled the place,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As 'twere some city in the sky;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which heavenly minstrels grace.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With each voluptuous art they strove</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To win the tenant of the grove,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And with their graceful forms inspire</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His modest soul with soft desire.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With arch of brow, with beck and smile,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With every passion-waking wile</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of glance and lotus hand,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With all enticements that excite</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The longing for unknown delight</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which boys in vain withstand.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Forth came the hermit's son to view</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The wondrous sight to him so new,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And gazed in rapt surprise</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For from his natal hour till then</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On woman or the sons of men</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He ne'er had cast his eyes.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He saw them with their waists so slim,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With fairest shape and faultless limb,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In variegated robes arrayed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And sweetly singing as they played.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Near and more near the hermit drew,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And watched them at their game,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And stronger still the impulse grew</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To question whence they came.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They marked the young ascetic gaze</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With curious eye and wild amaze,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And sweet the long-eyed damsels sang,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And shrill their merry laughter rang.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then came they nearer to his side,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And languishing with passion cried:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Whose son, O youth, and who art thou,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Come suddenly to join us now?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And why dost thou all lonely dwell</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In the wild wood? We pray thee, tell.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>We wish to know thee, gentle youth;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Come, tell us, if thou wilt, the truth,&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He gazed upon that sight he ne'er</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Had seen before, of girls so fair,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And out of love a longing rose</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His sire and lineage to disclose:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;My father,&quot; thus he made reply,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Is Ka&#347;yap's son, a saint most high,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vibh&aacute;ndak styled; from him I came,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Rishya&#347;ring he calls my name.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Our hermit cot is near this place:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Come thither, O ye fair of face;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>There be it mine, with honor due,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ye gentle youths, to welcome you.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They heard his speech, and gave consent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And gladly to his cottage went.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vibh&aacute;ndak's son received them well</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Beneath the shelter of his cell&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With guest-gift, water for their feet,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And woodland fruit and roots to eat.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They smiled and spoke sweet words like these.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Delighted with his courtesies:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;We too have goodly fruit in store,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Grown on the trees that shade our door;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Come, if thou wilt, kind Hermit, haste</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The produce of our grove to taste;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And let, O good Ascetic, first</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This holy water quench thy thirst.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They spoke, and gave him comfits sweet</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Prepared ripe fruits to counterfeit;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And many a dainty cate beside,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And luscious mead their stores supplied.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The seeming fruits, in taste and look,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The unsuspecting hermit took,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For, strange to him, their form beguiled</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The dweller in the lonely wild.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then round his neck fair arms were flung,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And there the laughing damsels clung,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And pressing nearer and more near</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With sweet lips whispered at his ear;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While rounded limb and swelling breast</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The youthful hermit softly pressed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The pleasing charm of that strange bowl,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The touch of a tender limb,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Over his yielding spirit stole</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And sweetly vanquished him&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But vows, they said, must now be paid;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They bade the boy farewell,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And of the aged saint afraid,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Prepared to leave the dell.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With ready guile they told him where</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their hermit dwelling lay;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then, lest the sire should find them there,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sped by wild paths away.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They fled and left him there alone</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By longing love possessed;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And with a heart no more his own</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He roamed about distressed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The aged saint came home, to find</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hermit boy distraught,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Revolving in his troubled mind</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One solitary thought.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Why dost thou not, my son,&quot; he cried,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Thy due obeisance pay?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Why do I see thee in the tide</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of whelming thought to-day?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A devotee should never wear</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A mien so sad and strange.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Come, quickly, dearest child, declare</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The reason of the change.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Rishya&#347;ring, when questioned thus,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Made answer in this wise:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;O sire, there came to visit us</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Some men with lovely eyes.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>About my neck soft arms they wound</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And kept me tightly held</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To tender breasts so soft and round,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That strangely heaved and swelled.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They sing more sweetly as they dance</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Than e'er I heard till now,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And play with many a sidelong glance</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And arching of the brow.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;My son,&quot; said he, &quot;thus giants roam</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where holy hermits are,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And wander round their peaceful home</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their rites austere to mar.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I charge thee, thou must never lay</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy trust in them, dear boy:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They seek thee only to betray,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And woo but to destroy.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus having warned him of his foes</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That night at home he spent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And when the morrow's sun arose</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Forth to the forest went.</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But Rishya&#347;ring with eager pace</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sped forth and hurried to the place</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where he those visitants had seen</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of dainty waist and charming mien.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When from afar they saw the son</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Saint Vibh&aacute;ndak toward them run,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To meet the hermit boy they hied,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And hailed him with a smile, and cried:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;O come, we pray, dear lord, behold</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Our lovely home of which we told:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Due honor there to thee we'll pay,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And speed thee on thy homeward way.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Pleased with the gracious words they said</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He followed where the damsels led.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As with his guides his steps he bent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That Br&aacute;hman high of worth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A flood of rain from heaven sent</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That gladdened all the earth.</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vibh&aacute;ndak took his homeward road,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And wearied by the heavy load</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of roots and woodland fruit he bore</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Entered at last his cottage door.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fain for his son he looked around,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But desolate the cell he found.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He stayed not then to bathe his feet,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Though fainting with the toil and heat,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But hurried forth and roamed about</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Calling the boy with cry and shout.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He searched the wood, but all in vain;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor tidings of his son could gain.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One day beyond the forest's bound</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The wandering saint a village found,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And asked the swains and neatherds there</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who owned the land so rich and fair,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With all the hamlets of the plain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And herds of kine and fields of grain.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They listened to the hermit's words,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And all the guardians of the herds,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With suppliant hands together pressed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This answer to the saint addressed:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;The Angas' lord who bears the name</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Lomap&aacute;d, renowned by fame,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bestowed these hamlets with their kine</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And all their riches, as a sign</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of grace, on Rishya&#347;ring; and he</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vibh&aacute;ndak's son is said to be.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hermit with exulting breast</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The mighty will of fate confessed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By meditation's eye discerned;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And cheerful to his home returned.</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A stately ship, at early morn,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hermit's son away had borne.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Loud roared the clouds, as on he sped,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The sky grew blacker overhead;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Till, as he reached the royal town,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A mighty flood of rain came down.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By the great rain the monarch's mind</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The coming of his guest divined.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To meet the honored youth he went,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And low to earth his head he bent.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With his own priest to lead the train,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He gave the gift high guests obtain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And sought, with all who dwelt within</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The city walls, his grace to win.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He fed him with the daintiest fare,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He served him with unceasing care,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And ministered with anxious eyes</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lest anger in his breast should rise;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And gave to be the Br&aacute;hman's bride</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His own fair daughter, lotus-eyed.</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus loved and honored by the King,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The glorious Br&aacute;hman Rishya&#347;ring</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Passed in that royal town his life</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With &#346;&aacute;nt&aacute; his beloved wife.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_X'></a><h3>CANTO X</h3>
+
+<h4>RISHYA&#346;RING INVITED</h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Again, O best of Kings, give ear:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My saving words attentive hear,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And listen to the tale of old</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By that illustrious Br&aacute;hman told.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Of famed Ikshv&aacute;ku's line shall spring</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>('Twas thus he spoke) a pious king,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Named Da&#347;aratha, good and great,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>True to his word and fortunate.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He with the Angas' mighty lord</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shall ever live in sweet accord,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And his a daughter fair shall be,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&#346;&aacute;nt&aacute; of happy destiny.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But Lomap&aacute;d, the Angas' chief,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Still pining in his childless grief,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Da&#347;aratha thus shall say:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Give me thy daughter, friend, I pray,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy &#346;&aacute;nt&aacute; of the tranquil mind,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The noblest one of womankind.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The father, swift to feel for woe,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shall on his friend his child bestow;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And he shall take her and depart</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To his own town with joyous heart.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The maiden home in triumph led,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Rishya&#347;ring the King shall wed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And he with loving joy and pride</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shall take her for his honored bride.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Da&#347;aratha to a rite</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That best of Br&aacute;hmans shall invite</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With supplicating prayer</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To celebrate the sacrifice</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To win him sons and Paradise,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That he will fain prepare.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From him the lord of men at length</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The boon he seeks shall gain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And see four sons of boundless strength</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His royal line maintain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus did the godlike saint of old</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The will of fate declare,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And all that should befall unfold</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Amid the sages there.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>O Prince, supreme of men, go thou,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Consult thy holy guide,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And win, to aid thee in thy vow,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This Br&aacute;hman to thy side.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sumantra's counsel, wise and good,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>King Da&#347;aratha heard,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then by Va&#347;ishtha's side he stood</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thus with him conferred:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Sumantra counsels thus:&mdash;do thou</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My priestly guide, the plan allow.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Va&#347;ishtha gave his glad consent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And forth the happy monarch went</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With lords and servants on the road</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That led to Rishya&#347;ring's abode.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Forests and rivers duly past,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He reached the distant town at last&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Lomap&aacute;d the Angas' King,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And entered it with welcoming.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On through the crowded streets he came,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, radiant as the kindled flame,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He saw within the monarch's house</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hermit's son, most glorious.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>There Lomap&aacute;d, with joyful breast,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To him all honor paid,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For friendship for his royal guest</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His faithful bosom swayed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus entertained with utmost care</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Seven days, or eight, he tarried there,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And then that best of men thus broke</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His purpose to the King, and spoke:&mdash;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;O King of men, mine ancient friend,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>(Thus Da&#347;aratha prayed),</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy &#346;&aacute;nt&aacute; with her husband send</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My sacrifice to aid.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Said he who ruled the Angas, &quot;Yea,&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And his consent was won:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And then at once he turned away</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To warn the hermit's son.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He told him of their ties beyond</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their old affection's faithful bond:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;This King,&quot; he said, &quot;from days of old</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A well beloved friend I hold.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To me this pearl of dames he gave</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From childless woe mine age to save,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The daughter whom he loved so much,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Moved by compassion's gentle touch.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In him thy &#346;&aacute;nt&aacute;'s father see:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As I am, even so is he.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For sons the childless monarch yearns,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To thee alone for help he turns.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Go thou, the sacred rite ordain</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To win the sons he prays to gain:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Go, with thy wife thy succor lend,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And give his vows a blissful end.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hermit's son with quick accord</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Obeyed the Angas' mighty lord,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And with fair &#346;&aacute;nt&aacute; at his side</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Da&#347;aratha's city hied.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each king, with suppliant hands upheld,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gazed on the other's face:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And then by mutual love impelled</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Met in a close embrace.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then Da&#347;aratha's thoughtful care,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Before he parted thence,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bade trusty servants homeward bear</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The glad intelligence:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Let all the town be bright and gay,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With burning incense sweet;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Let banners wave, and water lay</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The dust in every street.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Glad were the citizens to learn</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The tidings of their lord's return,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And through the city every man</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Obediently his task began.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And fair and bright Ayodhy&aacute; showed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As following his guest he rode</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Through the full streets, where shell and drum</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Proclaimed aloud the King was come.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And all the people with delight</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Kept gazing on their king,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Attended by that youth so bright,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The glorious Rishya&#347;ring.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When to his home the King had brought</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hermit's saintly son,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He deemed that all his task was wrought,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And all he prayed for won.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And lords who saw the stranger dame</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So beautiful to view,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rejoiced within their hearts, and came</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And paid her honor, too.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>There Rishya&#347;ring passed blissful days,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Graced like the King with love and praise,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And shone in glorious light with her,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sweet &#346;&aacute;nt&aacute; for his minister,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As Brahm&aacute;'s son Va&#347;ishtha, he</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who wedded Saint Arundhat&iacute;.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_XI'></a><h3>CANTO XI</h3>
+
+<h4>THE SACRIFICE DECREED</h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Dewy Season came and went;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The spring returned again&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then would the King, with mind intent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His sacrifice ordain.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He came to Rishya&#347;ring, and bowed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To him of look divine,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And bade him aid his offering vowed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For heirs, to save his line.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor would the youth his aid deny,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He spake the monarch fair,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And prayed him for that rite so high</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All requisites prepare.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The King to wise Sumantra cried</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who stood aye ready near;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Go summon quick, each holy guide,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To counsel and to hear,&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Obedient to his lord's behest</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Away Sumantra sped,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And brought Va&#347;ishtha and the rest,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In Scripture deeply read.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Suyaj&#324;a, V&aacute;madeva came,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>J&aacute;v&aacute;li, Ka&#347;yap's son,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And old Va&#347;ishtha, dear to fame,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Obedient, every one.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>King Da&#347;aratha met them there</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And duly honored each,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And spoke in pleasant words his fair</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And salutary speech:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;In childless longing doomed to pine,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No happiness, O lords, is mine.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So have I for this cause decreed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To slay the sacrificial steed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fain would I pay that offering high</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wherein the horse is doomed to die,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With Rishya&#347;ring his aid to lend,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And with your glory to befriend.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With loud applause each holy man</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Received his speech, approved the plan,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, by the wise Va&#347;ishtha led,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gave praises to the King, and said:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;The sons thou cravest shalt thou see,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of fairest glory, born to thee,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whose holy feelings bid thee take</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This righteous course for offspring's sake.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Cheered by the ready praise of those</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whose aid he sought, his spirits rose&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thus the King his speech renewed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With looks of joy and gratitude:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Let what the coming rites require</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Be ready, as the priests desire,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And let the horse, ordained to bleed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With fitting guard and priest, be freed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yonder on Sarj&uacute;'s northern side</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The sacrificial ground provide;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And let the saving rites, that nought</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ill-omened may occur, be wrought.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The offering I announce to-day</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each lord of earth may claim to pay,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Provided that his care can guard</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The holy rite by flaws unmarred.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For wandering fiends, whose watchful spite</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Waits eagerly to spoil each rite&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hunting with keenest eye detect</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The slightest slip, the least neglect;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And when the sacred work is crossed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The workman is that moment lost.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Let preparation due be made,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Your powers the charge can meet,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That so the noble rite be paid</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In every point complete.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And all the Br&aacute;hmans answered, &quot;Yea,&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His mandate honoring,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And gladly promised to obey</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The order of the King.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They cried with voices raised aloud:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Success attend thine aim!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then bade farewell, and lowly bowed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And hastened whence they came.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>King Da&#347;aratha went within,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His well-loved wives to see&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And said: &quot;Your lustral rites begin,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For these shall prosper me.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A glorious offering I prepare</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That precious fruit of sons may bear.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their lily faces brightened fast</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Those pleasant words to hear,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As lilies, when the winter's past,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In lovelier hues appear.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_XII'></a><h3>CANTO XII</h3>
+
+<h4>THE SACRIFICE BEGUN</h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Again the spring with genial heat</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Returning made the year complete.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To win him sons, without delay</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His vow the King resolved to pay&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And to Va&#347;ishtha, saintly man,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In modest words this speech began:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Prepare the rite with all things fit</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As is ordained in Holy Writ,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And keep with utmost care afar</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whate'er its sacred forms might mar.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou art, my lord, my trustiest guide,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Kind-hearted, and my friend beside;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So is it meet thou undertake</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This heavy task for duty's sake.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then he, of twice-born men the best,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His glad assent at once expressed:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Fain will I do whatever may be</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Desired, O honored King, by thee.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To ancient priests he spoke, who, trained</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In holy rites, deep skill had gained:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Here guards be stationed, good and sage,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Religious men of trusted age.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And various workmen send and call,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who frame the door and build the wall&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With men of every art and trade,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who read the stars and ply the spade,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And mimes and minstrels hither bring,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And damsels trained to dance and sing.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then to the learned men he said,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In many a page of Scripture read:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Be yours each rite performed to see</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>According to the King's decree.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And stranger Br&aacute;hmans quickly call</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To this great rite that welcomes all.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Pavilions for the princes, decked</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With art and ornament, erect,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And handsome booths by thousands made</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Br&aacute;hman visitors to shade&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Arranged in order side by side,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With meat and drink and all supplied.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And ample stables we shall need</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For many an elephant and steed&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And chambers where the men may lie,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And vast apartments, broad and high,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fit to receive the countless bands</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of warriors come from distant lands.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For our own people too provide</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sufficient tents, extended wide,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And stores of meat and drink prepare,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And all that can be needed there.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And food in plenty must be found</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For guests from all the country round.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of various viands presents make,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For honor, not for pity's sake,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That fit regard and worship be</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Paid to each caste in due degree.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And let not wish or wrath excite</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Your hearts the meanest guest to slight;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But still observe with special grace</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Those who obtain the foremost place,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whether for happier skill in art</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or bearing in the rite their part</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Do you, I pray, with friendly mind</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Perform the task to you assigned,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And work the rite, as bids the law,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Without omission, slip, or flaw.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They answered: &quot;As thou seest fit</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So will we do and nought omit.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The sage Va&#347;ishtha then addressed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sumantra, called at his behest:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;The princes of the earth invite,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And famous lords who guard the rite,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Priest, Warrior, Merchant, lowly thrall,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In countless thousands summon all.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where'er their home be, far or near,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gather the good with honor here.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Janak, whose imperial sway</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The men of Mithil&aacute; obey,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The firm of vow, the dread of foes,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who all the lore of Scripture knows,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Invite him here with honor high,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>King Da&#347;aratha's old ally.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And K&aacute;&#347;i's lord of gentle speech,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who finds a pleasant word for each&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In length of days our monarch's peer,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Illustrious King, invite him here.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The father of our ruler's bride,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Known for his virtues far and wide,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The King whom Kekaya's realms obey,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Him with his son invite, I pray.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Lomap&aacute;d, the Angas King,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>True to his vows and godlike, bring.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Far be thine invitations sent</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To west and south and orient.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Call those who rule Sur&aacute;shtra's land,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Suv&iacute;ra's realm and Sindhu's strand,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And all the kings of earth beside</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In friendship's bonds with us allied:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Invite them all to hasten in</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With retinue and kith and kin.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Va&#347;ishtha's speech without delay</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sumantra bent him to obey,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And sent his trusty envoys forth</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Eastward and westward, south and north.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Obedient to the saint's request</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Himself he hurried forth, and pressed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each nobler chief and lord and king</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To hasten to the gathering.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Before the saint Va&#347;ishtha stood</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All those who wrought with stone and wood,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And showed the work which every one</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In furtherance of the rite had done.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rejoiced their ready zeal to see,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus to the craftsmen all said he:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;I charge ye, masters, see to this,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That there be nothing done amiss.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And this, I pray, in mind be borne,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That not one gift ye give in scorn;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whenever scorn a gift attends</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Great sin is his who thus offends.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And now some days and nights had passed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Kings began to gather fast,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And precious gems in liberal store</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As gifts to Da&#347;aratha bore.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then joy thrilled through Va&#347;ishtha's breast</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As thus the monarch he addressed:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Obedient to thy high decree</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Kings, my lord, are come to thee.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And it has been my care to greet</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And honor all with reverence meet.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy servants' task is ended quite,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And all is ready for the rite.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Come forth then to the sacred ground</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where all in order will be found.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then Rishya&#347;ring confirmed the tale:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor did their words to move him fail.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The stars propitious influence lent</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When forth the world's great ruler went.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then by the sage Va&#347;ishtha led,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The priest began to speed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Those glorious rites wherein is shed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The lifeblood of the steed.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_XIII'></a><h3>CANTO XIII</h3>
+
+<h4>THE SACRIFICE FINISHED</h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The circling year had filled its course,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And back was brought the wandering horse:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then upon Sarj&uacute;'s northern strand</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Began the rite the King had planned.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With Rishya&#347;ring the forms to guide,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Br&aacute;hmans to their task applied,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>At that great offering of the steed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their lofty-minded King decreed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The priests, who all the Scripture knew,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Performed their part in order due,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And circled round in solemn train</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As precepts of the law ordain.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Pravargya rites were duly sped:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For Upasads the flames were fed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then from the plant the juice was squeezed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And those high saints, with minds well pleased,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Performed the mystic rites begun</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With bathing ere the rise of sun.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They gave the portion, Indra's claim,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And hymned the King whom none can blame.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The mid-day bathing followed next,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Observed as bids the holy text.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then the good priests with utmost care,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In form that Scripture's rules declare,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For the third time pure water shed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On high-souled Da&#347;aratha's head.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then Rishya&#347;ring and all the rest</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Indra and the Gods addressed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their sweet-toned hymn of praise and prayer,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And called them in the rite to share.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With sweetest song and hymn intoned</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They gave the Gods in heaven enthroned,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As duty bids, the gifts they claim,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The holy oil that feeds the flame.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And many an offering there was paid,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And not one slip in all was made.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For with most careful heed they saw</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That all was done by Veda law.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>None, all those days, was seen oppressed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By hunger or by toil distressed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Why speak of human kind? No beast</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was there that lacked an ample feast.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For there was store for all who came,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For orphan child and lonely dame;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The old and young were well supplied,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The poor and hungry satisfied.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Throughout the day ascetics fed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And those who roam to beg their bread:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While all around the cry was still,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Give forth, give forth,&quot; and &quot;Eat your fill.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Give forth with liberal hand the meal,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And various robes in largess deal.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Urged by these cries on every side</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unweariedly their task they plied,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And heaps of food like hills in size</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In boundless plenty met the eyes:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And lakes of sauce, each day renewed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Refreshed the weary multitude.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And strangers there from distant lands,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And women folk in crowded bands</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The best of food and drink obtained</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>At the great rite the King ordained.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Apart from all, the Br&aacute;hmans there,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thousands on thousands, took their share</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of various dainties sweet to taste,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On plates of gold and silver placed&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All ready set, as, when they willed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The twice-born men their places filled.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And servants in fair garments dressed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Waited upon each Br&aacute;hman guest.</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of cheerful mind and mien were they,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With gold and jewelled ear-rings gay.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The best of Br&aacute;hmans praised the fare</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of countless sorts, of flavor rare&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thus to Raghu's son they cried:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;We bless thee, and are satisfied.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Between the rites some Br&aacute;hmans spent</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The time in learned argument,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With ready flow of speech, sedate,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And keen to vanquish in debate.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>There day by day the holy train</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Performed all rites as rules ordain.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No priest in all that host was found</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But kept the vows that held him bound;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>None, but the holy Vedas knew,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And all their sixfold science too.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No Br&aacute;hman there was found unfit</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To speak with eloquence and wit.</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And now the appointed time came near</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The sacrificial posts to rear.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They brought them, and prepared to fix</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Bel and Kh&aacute;dir six and six;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Six, made of the Pal&aacute;&#347;a-tree,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Fig-wood one, apart to be&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Sleshm&aacute;t and of Devad&aacute;r</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One column each, the mightiest far:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So thick the two the arms of man</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their ample girth would fail to span.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All these with utmost care were wrought</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By hand of priests in Scripture taught,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And all with gold were gilded bright</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To add new splendor to the rite;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Twenty-and-one those stakes in all,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each one-and-twenty cubits tall:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And one-and-twenty ribbons there</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hung on the pillars bright and fair.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Firm in the earth they stood at last,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where cunning craftsmen fixed them fast;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And there unshaken each remained,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Octagonal and smoothly planed.</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then ribbons over all were hung,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And flowers and scent around them flung.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus decked they cast a glory forth</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like the great saints who star the north.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The sacrificial altar then</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was raised by skilful twice-born men&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In shape and figure to behold</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>An eagle with his wings of gold,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With twice nine pits and formed threefold.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each for some special God, beside</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The pillars were the victims tied;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The birds that roam the wood, the air,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The water, and the land were there,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And snakes and things of reptile birth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And healing herbs that spring from earth:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As texts prescribe, in Scripture found,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Three hundred victims there were bound.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The steed devoted to the host</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Gods, the gem they honor most,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was duly sprinkled. Then the Queen</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Kau&#347;aly&aacute;, with delighted mien,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With reverent steps around him paced,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And with sweet wreaths the victim graced;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then with three swords in order due</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She smote the steed with joy, and slew.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That night the queen, a son to gain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With calm and steady heart was fain</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By the dead charger's side to stay</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From evening till the break of day.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then came three priests, their care to lead</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The other queens to touch the steed&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upon Kau&#347;aly&aacute; to attend,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their company and aid to lend.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As by the horse she still reclined,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With happy mien and cheerful mind,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With Rishya&#347;ring the twice-born came</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And praised and blessed the royal dame.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The priest who well his duty knew,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And every sense could well subdue,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From out the bony chambers freed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And boiled the marrow of the steed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Above the steam the monarch bent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, as he smelt the fragrant scent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In time and order drove afar</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All error, that his hopes could mar.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then sixteen priests together came,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And cast into the sacred flame</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The severed members of the horse,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Made ready all in ordered course.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On piles of holy Fig-tree raised</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The meaner victims' bodies blazed:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The steed, of all the creatures slain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Alone required a pile of cane.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Three days, as is by law decreed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lasted that Offering of the Steed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Chatushtom began the rite,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And when the sun renewed his light,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Ukthya followed&mdash;after came</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Atir&aacute;tra's holy flame.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>These were the rites, and many more,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Arranged by light of holy lore,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Aptory&aacute;m of mighty power,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, each performed in proper hour,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Abhijit and Vi&#347;vajit</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With every form and service fit;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And with the sacrifice at night</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Jyotishtom and &Aacute;yus rite.</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The task was done, as laws prescribe:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The monarch, glory of his tribe,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bestowed the land in liberal grants</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upon the sacred ministrants.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He gave the region of the east,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His conquest, to the Hotri priest.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The west the celebrant obtained,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The south the priest presiding gained&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The northern region was the share</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of him who chanted forth the prayer.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus did each priest obtain his meed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>At the great Slaughter of the Steed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ordained, the best of all to be,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By self-existent deity.</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ikshv&aacute;ku's son, with joyful mind,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This noble fee to each assigned&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But all the priests with one accord</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Addressed that unpolluted lord:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;'Tis thine alone to keep the whole</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of this broad earth in firm control.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No gift of lands from thee we seek,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To guard these realms our hands were weak.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On sacred lore our days are spent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Let other gifts our wants content.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The chief of old Ikshv&aacute;ku's line</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gave them ten hundred thousand kine,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A hundred millions of fine gold,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The same in silver four times told.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But every priest in presence there</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With one accord resigned his share.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Saint Va&#347;ishtha, high of soul,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Rishya&#347;ring they gave the whole.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That largess pleased those Br&aacute;hmans well,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who bade the prince his wishes tell.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then Da&#347;aratha, mighty King,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Made answer thus to Rishya&#347;ring:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;O holy Hermit, of thy grace,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vouchsafe the increase of my race.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He spoke; nor was his prayer denied&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The best of Br&aacute;hmans thus replied:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Four sons, O Monarch, shall be thine,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upholders of thy royal line.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_XIV'></a><h3>CANTO XIV</h3>
+
+<h4>R&Aacute;VAN DOOMED</h4>
+
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The saint, well-read in holy lore,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Pondered awhile his answer o'er,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thus again addressed the King,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His wandering thoughts regathering:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Another rite will I begin</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which shall the sons thou cravest win,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where all things shall be duly sped</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And first Atharva texts be read.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then by Vibh&aacute;ndak's gentle son</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was that high sacrifice begun,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The King's advantage seeking still</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And zealous to perform his will.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Now all the Gods had gathered there,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each one for his allotted share&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Brahm&aacute;, the ruler of the sky,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sth&aacute;nu, N&aacute;r&aacute;yan, Lord most high,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And holy Indra men might view</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With Maruts for his retinue;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The heavenly chorister, and saint,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And spirit pure from earthly taint,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With one accord had sought the place</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The high-souled monarch's rite to grace,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then to the Gods who came to take</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their proper share, the hermit spake:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;For you has Da&#347;aratha slain</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The votive steed, a son to gain;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Stern penance-rites the King has tried,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And in firm faith on you relied,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And now with undiminished care</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A second rite would fain prepare.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But, O ye Gods, consent to grant</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The longing of your supplicant.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For him beseeching hands I lift,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And pray you all to grant the gift,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That four fair sons of high renown</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The offerings of the King may crown.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They to the hermit's son replied:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;His longing shall be gratified.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For, Br&aacute;hman, in most high degree</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>We love the King and honor thee.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>These words the Gods in answer said,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And vanished thence, by Indra led.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus to the Lord, the worlds who made,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Immortals all assembled prayed:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;O Brahm&aacute;, mighty by thy grace,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>R&aacute;van, who rules the giant race,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Torments us in his senseless pride,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And penance-loving saints beside.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For thou well pleased in days of old</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gavest the boon that makes him bold,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That God nor demon e'er should kill</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His charmed life, for so thy will.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>We, honoring that high behest,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bear all his rage though sore distressed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That lord of giants fierce and fell</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Scourges the earth and heaven and hell.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Mad with thy boon, his impious rage</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Smites saint and bard and God and sage.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The sun himself withholds his glow,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The wind in fear forbears to blow;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The fire restrains his wonted heat</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where stand the dreaded R&aacute;van's feet,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, necklaced with the wandering wave,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The sea before him fears to rave.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Kuvera's self in sad defeat</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is driven from his blissful seat.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>We see, we feel the giant's might,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And woe comes o'er us and affright.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To thee, O Lord, thy suppliants pray</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To find some cure this plague to stay.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus by the gathered Gods addressed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He pondered in his secret breast,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And said: &quot;One only way I find</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To slay this fiend of evil mind.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He prayed me once his life to guard</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From demon, God, and heavenly bard,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And spirits of the earth and air,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And I consenting heard his prayer.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But the proud giant in his scorn</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Recked not of man of woman born.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>None else may take his life away,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But only man the fiend may slay.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Gods, with Indra at their head,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rejoiced to hear the words he said.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then, crowned with glory like a flame,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lord Vishnu to the council came;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His hands shell, mace, and discus bore,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And saffron were the robes he wore.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Riding his eagle through the crowd,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As the sun rides upon a cloud,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With bracelets of fine gold, he came,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Loud welcomed by the Gods' acclaim.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His praise they sang with one consent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And cried, in lowly reverence bent:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;O Lord whose hand fierce Madhu slew,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Be thou our refuge, firm and true;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Friend of the suffering worlds art thou,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>We pray thee help thy suppliants now.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then Vishnu spake: &quot;Ye Gods, declare,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What may I do to grant your prayer?&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;King Da&#347;aratha,&quot; thus cried they,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Fervent in penance many a day,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The sacrificial steed has slain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Longing for sons, but all in vain.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Now, at the cry of us forlorn,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Incarnate as his seed be born.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Three queens has he&mdash;each lovely dame</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like Beauty, Modesty, or Fame.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Divide thyself in four, and be</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His offspring by these noble three.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Man's nature take, and slay in fight</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>R&aacute;van who laughs at heavenly might&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This common scourge, this rankling thorn</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whom the three worlds too long have borne.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For R&aacute;van, in the senseless pride</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of might unequalled, has defied</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The host of heaven, and plagues with woe</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Angel and bard and saint below,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Crushing each spirit and each maid</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who plays in Nandan's heavenly shade.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>O conquering Lord, to thee we bow;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Our surest hope and trust art thou.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Regard the world of men below,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And slay the God's tremendous foe.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When thus the suppliant Gods had prayed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His wise reply N&aacute;r&aacute;yan made:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;What task demands my presence there,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And when this dread, ye Gods declare.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Gods replied: &quot;We fear, O Lord,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fierce R&aacute;van, ravener abhorred.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Be thine the glorious task, we pray,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In human form this fiend to slay.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By thee of all the Blest alone</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This sinner may be overthrown.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He gained by penance long and dire</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The favor of the mighty Sire.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then He who every gift bestows</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Guarded the fiend from heavenly foes,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And gave a pledge his life that kept</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From all things living, man except.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On him thus armed no other foe</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Than man may deal the deadly blow.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Assume, O King, a mortal birth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And strike the demon to the earth.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then Vishnu, God of Gods, the Lord</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Supreme by all the worlds adored,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Brahm&aacute; and the suppliants spake:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Dismiss your fear: for your dear sake</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In battle will I smite him dead,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The cruel fiend, the Immortal's dread.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And lords and ministers and all</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His kith and kin with him shall fall.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then, in the world of mortal men,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ten thousand years and hundreds ten</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I as a human King will reign,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And guard the earth as my domain.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>God, saint, and nymph, and minstrel throng</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With heavenly voices raised their song</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In hymns of triumph to the God</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whose conquering feet on Madhu trod:&mdash;-</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Champion of Gods, as man appear,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This cruel R&aacute;van slay,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The thorn that saints and hermits fear,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The plague that none can stay.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In savage fury uncontrolled</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His pride forever grows&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He dares the Lord of Gods to hold</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Among his deadly foes.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_XV'></a><h3>CANTO XV</h3>
+
+<h4>THE NECTAR</h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When wisest Vishnu thus had given</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His promise to the Gods of heaven,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He pondered in his secret mind</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A suited place of birth to find.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then he decreed, the lotus-eyed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In four his being to divide,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Da&#347;aratha, gracious King,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He chose as sire from whom to spring.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That childless prince, of high renown,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who smote in war his foemen down,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>At that same time with utmost care</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Prepared the rite that wins an heir.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then Vishnu, fain on earth to dwell,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bade the Almighty Sire farewell,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And vanished while a reverent crowd</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Gods and saints in worship bowed.</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The monarch watched the sacred rite,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When a vast form of awful might,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of matchless splendor, strength and size</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was manifest before his eyes.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From forth the sacrificial flame,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Dark, robed in red, the being came.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His voice was drumlike, loud and low,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His face suffused with rosy glow.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like a huge lion's mane appeared</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The long locks of his hair and beard.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He shone with many a lucky sign,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And many an ornament divine;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A towering mountain in his height,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A tiger in his gait and might.</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No precious mine more rich could be,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No burning flame more bright than he.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His arms embraced in loving hold,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like a dear wife, a vase of gold</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whose silver lining held a draught</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of nectar as in heaven is quaffed&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A vase so vast, so bright to view,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They scarce could count the vision true.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upon the King his eyes he bent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And said: &quot;The Lord of life has sent</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His servant down, O Prince, to be</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A messenger from heaven to thee.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The King with all his nobles by</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Raised reverent hands and made reply:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Welcome, O glorious being! Say</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How can my care thy grace repay,&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Envoy of Him whom all adore,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus to the King he spake once more:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;The Gods accept thy worship&mdash;they</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Give thee the blessed fruit to-day.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Approach and take, O glorious King,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This heavenly nectar which I bring,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For it shall give thee sons and wealth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And bless thee with a store of health.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Give it to those fair queens of thine,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And bid them quaff the drink divine&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And they the princely sons shall bear</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Long sought by sacrifice and prayer.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Yea, O my lord,&quot; the monarch said,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And took the vase upon his head,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The gift of Gods, of fine gold wrought,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With store of heavenly liquor fraught.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He honored, filled with transport new,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That wondrous being, fair to view,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As round the envoy of the God</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With reverential steps he trod.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His errand done, that form of light</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Arose and vanished from the sight.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>High rapture filled the monarch's soul,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Possessed of that celestial bowl,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As when a man by want distressed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With unexpected wealth is blest.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And rays of transport seemed to fall</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Illuminating bower and hall,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As when the autumn moon rides high,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And floods with lovely light the sky.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Quick to the ladies' bower he sped,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thus to Queen Kau&#347;aly&aacute; said:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;This genial nectar take and quaff,&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He spoke, and gave the lady half.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Part of the nectar that remained</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sumitr&aacute; from his hand obtained.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He gave, to make her fruitful too,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Kaikey&iacute; half the residue.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A portion yet remaining there,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He paused awhile to think,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then gave Sumitr&aacute;, with her share,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The remnant of the drink.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus on each queen of those fair three</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A part the King bestowed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And with sweet hope a child to see</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their yearning bosoms glowed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The heavenly bowl the King supplied</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their longing souls relieved,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And soon, with rapture and with pride,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each royal dame conceived.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He gazed upon each lady's face,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And triumphed as he gazed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As Indra in his royal place</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By Gods and spirits praised.</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_XVI'></a><h3>CANTO XVI</h3>
+
+<h4>THE VANARS</h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When Vishnu thus had gone on earth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From the great King to take his birth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The self-existent Lord of all</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Addressed the Gods who heard his call:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;For Vishnu's sake, the strong and true,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who seeks the good of all of you,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Make helps, in war to lend him aid,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In forms that change at will, arrayed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of wizard skill and hero might,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Outstrippers of the wind in flight,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Skilled in the arts of counsel, wise,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Vishnu's peers in bold emprise;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With heavenly arts and prudence fraught,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By no devices to be caught;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Skilled in all weapons' lore and use</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As they who drink the immortal juice.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And let the nymphs supreme in grace,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And maidens of the minstrel race,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Monkeys and snakes, and those who rove</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Free spirits of the hill and grove,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And wandering Daughters of the Air,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In monkey form brave children bear.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So erst the lord of bears I shaped,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Born from my mouth as wide I gaped.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus by the mighty Sire addressed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They all obeyed his high behest,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thus begot in countless swarms</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Brave sons disguised in sylvan forms.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each God, each sage became a sire,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each minstrel of the heavenly choir.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each faun, of children strong and good</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whose feet should roam the hill and wood.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Snakes, bards, and spirits, serpents bold</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Had sons too numerous to be told.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>B&aacute;li, the woodland hosts who led,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>High as Mahendra's lofty head,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was Indra's child. That noblest fire,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Sun, was great Sugr&iacute;va's sire.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>T&aacute;ra, the mighty monkey, he</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was offspring of Vrihaspati&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>T&aacute;ra the matchless chieftain, boast</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For wisdom of the V&aacute;nar host.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Gandham&aacute;dan brave and bold</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The father was the Lord of Gold.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nala the mighty, dear to fame,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of skilful Vi&#347;vakarm&aacute; came.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From Agni, N&iacute;la bright as flame,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who in his splendor, might, and worth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Surpassed the sire who gave him birth.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The heavenly A&#347;vins, swift and fair,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Were fathers of a noble pair,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who, Dwivida and Mainda named,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For beauty like their sires were famed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Varun was father of Sushen,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of &#346;arabh, he who sends the rain.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hanum&aacute;n, best of monkey kind,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was son of him who breathes the wind&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like thunderbolt in frame was he,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And swift as Garud's self could flee.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>These thousands did the Gods create</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Endowed with might that none could mate,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In monkey forms that changed at will&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So strong their wish the fiend to kill.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In mountain size, like lions thewed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Up-sprang the wondrous multitude,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Auxiliar hosts in every shape,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Monkey and bear and highland ape.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In each the strength, the might, the mien</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of his own parent God were seen.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Some chiefs of V&aacute;nar mothers came,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Some of she-bear and minstrel dame,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Skilled in all arms in battle's shock,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The brandished tree, the loosened rock;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And prompt, should other weapons fail,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To fight and slay with tooth and nail.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their strength could shake the hills amain.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And rend the rooted trees in twain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Disturb with their impetuous sweep</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Rivers' Lord, the Ocean deep,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rend with their feet the seated ground,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And pass wide floods with airy bound&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or forcing through the sky their way</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The very clouds by force could stay.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Mad elephants that wander through</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The forest wilds, could they subdue,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And with their furious shout could scare</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Dead upon earth the birds of air.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So were the sylvan chieftains formed;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thousands on thousands still they swarmed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>These were the leaders honored most,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The captains of the V&aacute;nar host,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And to each lord and chief and guide</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was monkey offspring born beside.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then by the bears' great monarch stood</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The other roamers of the wood,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And turned, their pathless homes to seek,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To forest and to mountain peak.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The leaders of the monkey band</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By the two brothers took their stand,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sugr&iacute;va, offspring of the Sun,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And B&aacute;li, Indra's mighty one.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They both endowed with Garud's might,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And skilled in all the arts of fight,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wandered in arms the forest through,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And lions, snakes, and tigers, slew.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But every monkey, ape, and bear</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ever was B&aacute;li's special care;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With his vast strength and mighty arm</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He kept them from all scathe and harm.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And so the earth with hill, wood, seas,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was filled with mighty ones like these&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of various shape and race and kind,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With proper homes to each assigned.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With R&aacute;ma's champions fierce and strong</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The earth was overspread,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>High as the hills and clouds, a throng</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With bodies vast and dread.</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_XVII'></a><h3>CANTO XVII</h3>
+
+<h4>RISHYASRING'S RETURN</h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Now when the high-souled monarch's rite,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The A&#347;vamedh, was finished quite,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their sacrificial dues obtained,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Gods their heavenly homes regained.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The lofty-minded saints withdrew,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each to his place, with honor due,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And kings and chieftains, one and all,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who came to grace the festival.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Da&#347;aratha, ere they went,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Addressed them thus benevolent:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Now may you, each with joyful heart,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To your own realms, O Kings, depart.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Peace and good luck attend you there,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And blessing, is my friendly prayer;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Let cares of state each mind engage</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To guard his royal heritage.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A monarch from his throne expelled</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No better than the dead is held.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So he who cares for power and might</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Must guard his realm and royal right.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Such care a meed in heaven will bring</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Better than rites and offering.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Such care a king his country owes</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As man upon himself bestows,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When for his body he provides</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Raiment and every need besides.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For future days should kings foresee,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And keep the present error-free.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus did the King the kings exhort&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They heard, and turned them from the court,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, each to each in friendship bound,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Went forth to all the realms around.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The rites were o'er, the guests were sped,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The train the best of Br&aacute;hmans led&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In which the King with joyful soul,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With his dear wives, and with the whole</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of his imperial host and train</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of cars and servants turned again,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, as a monarch dear to fame,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Within his royal city came.</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Next, Rishya&#347;ring, well-honored sage,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And &#346;&aacute;nt&aacute;, sought their hermitage.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The King himself, of prudent mind,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Attended him, with troops behind,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And all her men the town outpoured</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With Saint Va&#347;ishtha and their lord.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>High mounted on a car of state,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>O'ercanopied fair &#346;&aacute;nt&aacute; sate,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Drawn by white oxen, while a band</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of servants marched on either hand.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Great gifts of countless price she bore,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With sheep and goats and gems in store.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like Beauty's self the lady shone</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With all the jewels she had on,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As, happy in her sweet content,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Peerless amid the fair she went.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Not Queen Paulom&iacute;'s self could be</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>More loving to her lord than she.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She who had lived in happy ease,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Honored with all her heart could please,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While dames and kinsfolk ever vied</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To see her wishes gratified&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Soon as she knew her husband's will</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Again to seek the forest, still</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was ready for the hermit's cot,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor murmured at her altered lot.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The King attended to the wild</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That hermit and his own dear child,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And in the centre of a throng</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of noble courtiers rode along.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The sage's son had let prepare</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A lodge within the wood, and there</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Awhile they lingered blithe and gay,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then, duly honored, went their way.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The glorious hermit Rishya&#347;ring</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Drew near and thus besought the King:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Return, my honored lord, I pray,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Return, upon thy homeward way.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The monarch, with the waiting crowd,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lifted his voice and wept aloud,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And with eyes dripping still to each</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of his good queens he spake this speech:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Kau&#347;aly&aacute; and Sumitr&aacute; dear,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thou, my sweet Kaikey&iacute;, hear&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All upon &#346;&aacute;nt&aacute; feast your gaze,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The last time for a length of days.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To '&#346;&aacute;nt&aacute;'s side the ladies leapt,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And hung about her neck and wept,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And cried, &quot;O, happy be the life</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of this great Br&aacute;hman and his wife.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Wind, the Fire, the Moon on high,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Earth, the Streams, the circling Sky,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Preserve thee in the wood, true spouse,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Devoted to thy husband's vows.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And O dear &#346;&aacute;nt&aacute;, ne'er neglect</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To pay the dues of meek respect</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To the great saint, thy husband's sire,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With all observance and with fire.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, sweet one, pure of spot and blame.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Forget not thou thy husband's claim;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In every change, in good and ill,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Let thy sweet words delight him still,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And let thy worship constant be&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her lord is woman's deity.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To learn thy welfare, dearest friend,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The King will many a Br&aacute;hman send.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Let happy thoughts thy spirit cheer,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And be not troubled, daughter dear.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>These soothing words the ladies said,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And pressed their lips upon her head,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each gave with sighs her last adieu,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then at the King's command withdrew.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The King around the hermit went</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With circling footsteps reverent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And placed at Rishya&#347;ring's command</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Some soldiers of his royal band.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Br&aacute;hman bowed in turn and cried,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;May fortune never leave thy side.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>O mighty King, with justice reign,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And still thy people's love retain.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He spoke, and turned away his face,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, as the hermit went,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The monarch, rooted to the place,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Pursued with eyes intent.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But when the sage had passed from view</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>King Da&#347;aratha turned him too,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Still fixing on his friend each thought,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With such deep love his breast was fraught.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Amid his people's loud acclaim</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Home to his royal seat he came,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And lived delighted there&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Expecting when each queenly dame,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upholder of his ancient fame,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her promised son should bear.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The glorious sage his way pursued</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Till close before his eyes he viewed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sweet Champ&aacute;, Lomap&aacute;d's fair town,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wreathed with her Champac's leafy crown.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Soon as the saint's approach he knew,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The King, to yield him honor due,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Went forth to meet him with a band</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of priests and nobles of the land:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Hail, Sage,&quot; he cried, &quot;O joy to me!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What bliss it is, my lord, to see</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thee with thy wife and all thy train</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Returning to my town again.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy father, honored Sage, is well,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who hither from his woodland cell</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Has sent full many a messenger</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For tidings both of thee and her.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then joyfully, for due respect,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The monarch bade the town be decked.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The King and Rishya&#347;ring elate</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Entered the royal city's gate&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In front the chaplain rode.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then, loved and honored with all care</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By monarch and by courtier, there</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The glorious saint abode.</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_XVIII'></a><h3>CANTO XVIII</h3>
+
+<h4>RISHYA&#346;RING'S DEPARTURE</h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The monarch called a Br&aacute;hman near</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And said, &quot;Now speed away</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Ka&#347;yap's son, the mighty seer,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And with all reverence say&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The holy child he holds so dear,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hermit of the noble mind,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whose equal it were hard to find,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Returned, is dwelling here.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Go, and instead of me do thou</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Before that best of hermits bow,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That still he may for his dear son,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Show me the favor I have won.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Soon as the King these words had said,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Ka&#347;yap's son the Br&aacute;hman sped.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Before the hermit low he bent</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And did obeisance, reverent;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then with meek words his grace to crave</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The message of his lord he gave:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;The high-souled father of his bride</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Had called thy son his rites to guide&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Those rites are o'er, the steed is slain;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy noble child is come again.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Soon as the saint that speech had heard</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His spirit with desire was stirred</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To seek the city of the King</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And to his cot his son to bring.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With young disciples at his side</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Forth on his way the hermit hied,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While peasants from their hamlets ran</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To reverence the holy man.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each with his little gift of food,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Forth came the village multitude,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, as they humbly bowed the head,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;What may we do for thee?&quot; they said.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then he, of Br&aacute;hmans first and best,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The gathered people thus addressed:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Now tell me, for I fain would know,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Why is it I am honored so?&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They to the high-souled saint replied:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Our ruler is with thee allied.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Our master's order we fulfil;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>O Br&aacute;hman, let thy mind be still.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With joy the saintly hermit heard</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each pleasant and delightful word,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And poured a benediction down</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On King and ministers and town.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Glad at the words of that high saint</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Some servants hastened to acquaint</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their King, rejoicing to impart</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The tidings that would cheer his heart.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Soon as the joyful tale he knew</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To meet the saint the monarch flew,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The guest-gift in his hand he brought,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And bowed before him and besought:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;This day by seeing thee I gain</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Not to have lived my life in vain.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Now be not wroth with me, I pray,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Because I wiled thy son away.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The best of Br&aacute;hmans answer made:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Be not, great lord of Kings, afraid.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy virtues have not failed to win</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My favor, O thou pure of sin.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then in the front the saint was placed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The King came next in joyous haste,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And with him entered his abode,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Mid glad acclaim as on they rode.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To greet the sage the reverent crowd</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Raised suppliant hands and humbly bowed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then from the palace many a dame</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Following well-dressed &#346;&aacute;nt&aacute; came,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Stood by the mighty saint and cried:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;See, honor's source, thy son's dear bride.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The saint, who every virtue knew,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His arms around his daughter threw,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And with a father's rapture pressed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The lady to his wondering breast.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Arising from the saint's embrace</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She bowed her low before his face,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And then, with palm to palm applied,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Stood by her hermit father's side.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He for his son, as laws ordain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Performed the rite that frees from stain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, honored by the wise and good,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With him departed to the wood.</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_XIX'></a><h3>CANTO XIX</h3>
+
+<h4>THE BIRTH OF THE PRINCES</h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The seasons six, in rapid flight,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Had circled since that glorious rite.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Eleven months had passed away&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Twas Chaitra's ninth returning day.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The moon within that mansion shone</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which Aditi looks so kindly on.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Raised to their apex in the sky</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Five brilliant planets beamed on high.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shone with the moon, in Cancer's sign,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vrihaspati with light divine.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Kau&#347;aly&aacute; bore an infant blest</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With heavenly marks of grace impressed;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>R&aacute;ma, the universe's lord,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A prince by all the worlds adored.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>New glory Queen Kau&#347;aly&aacute; won</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Reflected from her splendid son.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So Aditi shone more and more,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Mother of the Gods, when she</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The King of the Immortals bore,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The thunder-wielding deity.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The lotus-eyed, the beauteous boy,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He came fierce R&aacute;van to destroy;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From half of Vishnu's vigor born,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He came to help the worlds forlorn.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Queen Kaikey&iacute; bore a child</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of truest valor, Bharat styled,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With every princely virtue blest,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One-fourth of Vishnu manifest.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sumitr&aacute; too a noble pair,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Called Lakshman and &#346;atrughna, bare,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of high emprise, devoted, true,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sharers in Vishnu's essence too.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Neath Pushya's mansion, M&iacute;na's sign,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was Bharat born, of soul benign.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The sun had reached the Crab at morn</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When Queen Sumitr&aacute;'s babes were born,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What time the moon had gone to make</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His nightly dwelling with the Snake.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The high-souled monarch's consorts bore</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>At different times those glorious four,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like to himself and virtuous, bright</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As Proshthapad&aacute;'s fourfold light.</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then danced the nymphs' celestial throng,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The minstrels raised their strain;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The drums of heaven pealed loud and long,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And flowers came down in rain.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Within Ayodhy&aacute;, blithe and gay,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All kept the joyous holiday.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The spacious square, the ample road</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With mimes and dancers overflowed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And with the voice of music rang</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where minstrels played and singers sang&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And shone, a wonder to behold,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With dazzling show of gems and gold.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor did the King his largess spare,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For minstrel, driver, bard, to share;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Much wealth the Br&aacute;hmans bore away,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And many thousand kine that day.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Soon as each babe was twelve days old</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Twas time the naming rite to hold,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When Saint Va&#347;ishtha, rapt with joy,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Assigned a name to every boy.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>R&aacute;ma, to him the high-souled heir,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bharat, to him Kaikey&iacute; bare&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Queen Sumitr&aacute; one fair son</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was Lakshman, and &#346;atrughna one.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>R&aacute;ma, his sire's supreme delight,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like some proud banner cheered his sight,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And to all creatures seemed to be</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The self-existent deity.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All heroes, versed in holy lore,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To all mankind great love they bore.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fair stores of wisdom all possessed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With princely graces all were blest.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But mid those youths of high descent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With lordly light pre&euml;minent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like the full moon unclouded shone</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>R&aacute;ma, the world's dear paragon.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He best the elephant could guide,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Urge the fleet car, the charger ride&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A master he of bowman's skill,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Joying to do his father's will.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The world's delight and darling, he</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Loved Lakshman best from infancy;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Lakshman, lord of lofty fate,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upon his elder joyed to wait,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Striving his second self to please</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With friendship's sweet observances.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His limbs the hero ne'er would rest</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unless the couch his brother pressed;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Except beloved R&aacute;ma shared</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He could not taste the meal prepared.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When R&aacute;ma, pride of Raghu's race,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sprang on his steed to urge the chase,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Behind him Lakshman loved to go</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And guard him with his trusty bow.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As R&aacute;ma was to Lakshman dear</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>More than his life and ever near,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So fond &#346;atrughna prized above</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His very life his Bharat's love.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Illustrious heroes, nobly kind</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In mutual love they all combined,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And gave their royal sire delight</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With modest grace and warrior might;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Supported by the glorious four</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shone Da&#347;aratha more and more,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As though, with every guardian God</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who keeps the land and skies,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Father of all creatures trod</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The earth before men's eyes.</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_XX'></a><h3>CANTO XX</h3>
+
+<h4>VI&#346;V&Aacute;MITRA'S VISIT</h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Now Da&#347;aratha's pious mind</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Meet wedlock for his sons designed;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With priests and friends the King began</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To counsel and prepare his plan.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Such thoughts engaged his bosom, when,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To see Ayodhy&aacute;'s lord of men,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A mighty saint of glorious fame,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hermit Vi&#347;v&aacute;mitra came.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For evil fiends that roam by night</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Disturbed him in each holy rite,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And in their strength and frantic rage</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Assailed with witcheries the sage.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He came to seek the monarch's aid</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To guard the rites the demons stayed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unable to a close to bring</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One unpolluted offering.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Seeking the King in this dire strait</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He said to those who kept the gate:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Haste, warders, to your master run,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And say that here stands G&aacute;dhi's son.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Soon as they heard the holy man,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To the King's chamber swift they ran</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With minds disordered all, and spurred</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To wildest zeal by what they heard.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On to the royal hall they sped,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>There stood and lowly bowed the head,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And made the lord of men aware</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That the great saint was waiting there.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The King with priest and peer arose</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And ran the sage to meet,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As Indra from his palace goes</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lord Brahm&aacute;'s self to greet.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When glowing with celestial light</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The pious hermit was in sight,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The King, whose mien his transport showed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The honored gift for guests bestowed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor did the saint that gift despise,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Offered as holy texts advise;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He kindly asked the earth's great King</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How all with him was prospering.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The son of Kus&iacute;k bade him tell</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If all in town and field were well,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All well with friends, and kith and kin,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And royal treasure stored within:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Do all thy neighbors own thy sway?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy foes confess thee yet?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Dost thou continue still to pay</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Gods and men each debt?&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then he, of hermits first and best,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Va&#347;ishtha with a smile addressed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And asked him of his welfare too,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Showing him honor as was due.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then with the sainted hermit all</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Went joyous to the monarch's hall,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And sate them down by due degree,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each one, of rank and dignity.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Joy filled the noble prince's breast</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who thus bespoke the honored guest:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;As Amrit by a mortal found,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As rain upon the thirsty ground,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As to an heirless man a son</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Born to him of his precious one&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As gain of what we sorely miss,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As sudden dawn of mighty bliss,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So is thy coming here to me&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All welcome, mighty Saint, to thee.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What wish within thy heart hast thou!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If I can please thee, tell me how.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hail, Saint, from whom all honors flow,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Worthy of all I can bestow.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Blest is my birth with fruit to-day,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor has my life been thrown away.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I see the best of Br&aacute;hman race,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And night to glorious morn gives place.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou, holy Sage, in days of old</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Among the royal saints enrolled,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Didst, penance-glorified, within</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Br&aacute;hman caste high station win.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Tis meet and right in many a way</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That I to thee should honor pay.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This seems a marvel to mine eyes&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All sin thy visit purifies;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And I by seeing thee, O Sage,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Have reaped the fruit of pilgrimage.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then say what thou wouldst have me do.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That thou hast sought this interview.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Favored by thee, my wish is still,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>O Hermit, to perform thy will.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor needest thou at length explain</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The object that thy heart would gain.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Without reserve I grant it now&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My deity, O Lord, art thou.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The glorious hermit, far renowned.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With highest fame and virtue crowned,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rejoiced these modest words to hear</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Delightful to the mind and ear.</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_XXI'></a><h3>CANTO XXI</h3>
+
+<h4>VI&#346;V&Aacute;MITRA'S SPEECH</h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hermit heard with high content</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That speech so wondrous eloquent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And while each hair with joy arose,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He thus made answer at the close:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Good is thy speech, O noble King,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And like thyself in everything.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So should their lips be wisdom-fraught</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whom kings begot, Va&#347;ishtha taught.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The favor which I came to seek</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou grantest ere my tongue can speak.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But let my tale attention claim,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And hear the need for which I came.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>O King, as Scripture texts allow,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A holy rite employs me now.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Two fiends who change their forms at will</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Impede that rite with cursed skill.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Oft when the task is nigh complete,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>These worst of fiends my toil defeat,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Throw bits of bleeding flesh, and o'er</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The altar shed a stream of gore.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When thus the rite is mocked and stayed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And all my pious hopes delayed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Cast down in heart the spot I leave,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And spent with fruitless labor grieve.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor can I, checked by prudence, dare</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Let loose my fury on them there&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The muttered curse, the threatening word,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In such a rite must ne'er be heard.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy grace the rite from check can free,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And yield the fruit I long to see.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy duty bids thee, King, defend</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The suffering guest, the suppliant friend.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Give me thy son, thine eldest born,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whom locks like raven's wings adorn.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That hero youth, the truly brave,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of thee, O glorious King, I crave.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For he can lay those demons low</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who mar my rites and work me woe:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My power shall shield the youth from harm,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And heavenly might shall nerve his arm.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And on my champion will I shower</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unnumbered gifts of varied power&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Such gifts as shall ensure his fame</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And spread through all the worlds his name.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Be sure those fiends can never stand</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Before the might of R&aacute;ma's hand,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And mid the best and bravest none</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Can slay that pair but Raghu's son.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Entangled in the toils of Fate</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Those sinners, proud and obstinate,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Are, in their fury overbold,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No match for R&aacute;ma, mighty-souled.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor let a father's breast give way</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Too far to fond affection's sway.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Count thou the fiends already slain:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My word is pledged, nor pledged in vain.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I know the hero R&aacute;ma well</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In whom high thoughts and valor dwell;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So does Va&#347;ishtha, so do these</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Engaged in long austerities.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If thou would do the righteous deed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And win high fame, thy virtue's meed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fame that on earth shall last and live,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To me, great King, thy R&aacute;ma give.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If to the words that I have said,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With Saint Va&#347;ishtha at their head</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy holy men, O King, agree,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then let thy R&aacute;ma go with me.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ten nights my sacrifice will last,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And ere the stated time be past</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Those wicked fiends, those impious twain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Must fall by wondrous R&aacute;ma slain.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Let not the hours, I warn thee, fly,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fixt for the rite, unheeded by;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Good luck have thou, O royal Chief,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor give thy heart to needless grief.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus in fair words with virtue fraught,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The pious glorious saint besought.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But the good speech with poignant sting</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Pierced ear and bosom of the King,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who, stabbed with pangs too sharp to bear,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fell prostrate and lay fainting there.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_XXII'></a><h3>CANTO XXII</h3>
+
+<h4>DA&#346;ARATHA'S SPEECH</h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His tortured senses all astray,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Awhile the hapless monarch lay,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then slowly gathering thought and strength</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Vi&#347;v&aacute;mitra spoke at length:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;My son is but a child, I ween;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This year he will be just sixteen.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How is he fit for such emprise,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My darling with the lotus eyes?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A mighty army will I bring</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That calls me master, lord, and King,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And with its countless squadrons fight</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Against these rovers of the night.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My faithful heroes skilled to wield</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The arms of war will take the field;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their skill the demons' might may break:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>R&aacute;ma, my child, thou must not take.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I, even I, my bow in hand,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Will in the van of battle stand,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, while my soul is left alive,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With the night-roaming demons strive.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy guarded sacrifice shall be</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Completed, from all hindrance free.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thither will I my journey make:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>R&aacute;ma, my child, thou must not take.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A boy unskilled, he knows not yet</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The bounds to strength and weakness set.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No match is he for demon foes</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who magic arts to arms oppose.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>O chief of saints, I have no power,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of R&aacute;ma reft, to live one hour&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Mine aged heart at once would break:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>R&aacute;ma, my child, thou must not take.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nine thousand circling years have fled</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With all their seasons o'er my head,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And as a hard-won boon, O Sage,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>These sons have come to cheer mine age.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My dearest love amid the four</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is he whom first his mother bore,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Still dearer for his virtue's sake;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>R&aacute;ma, my child, thou must not take.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But if, unmoved by all I say,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou needs must bear my son away,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Let me lead with him, I entreat,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A fourfold army all complete.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What is the demons' might, O Sage?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who are they? What their parentage?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What is their size? What beings lend</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their power to guard them and befriend?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How can my son their arts withstand?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or I or all my armed band?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Tell me the whole that I may know</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To met in war each evil foe</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whom conscious might inspires with pride.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Vi&#347;v&aacute;mitra thus replied:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Sprung from Pulastya's race there came</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A giant known by R&aacute;van's name.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Once favored by the Eternal Sire</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He plagues the worlds in ceaseless ire,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For peerless power and might renowned,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By giant bands encompassed round.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vi&#347;ravas for his sire they hold,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His brother is the Lord of Gold.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>King of the giant hosts is he,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And worst of all in cruelty.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This R&aacute;van's dread commands impel</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Two demons who in might excel,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>M&aacute;r&iacute;cha and Suv&aacute;hu Light,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To trouble and impede the rite.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then thus the King addressed the sage:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;No power have I, my lord, to wage</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>War with this evil-minded foe;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Now pity on my darling show,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And upon me of hapless fate,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For thee as God I venerate.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gods, spirits, bards of heavenly birth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The birds of air, the snakes of earth</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Before the might of R&aacute;van quail,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Much less can mortal man avail.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He draws, I hear, from out the breast,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The valor of the mightiest.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No, ne'er can I with him contend,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or with the forces he may send.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How can I then my darling lend,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Godlike, unskilled in battle? No,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I will not let my young child go.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Foes of thy rite, those mighty ones,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sunda and Upasunda's sons,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Are fierce as Fate to overthrow:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I will not let my young child go.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>M&aacute;r&iacute;cha and Suv&aacute;hu fell</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Are valiant and instructed well.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One of the twain I might attack</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With all my friends their lord to back.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_XXIII'></a><h3>CANTO XXIII</h3>
+
+<h4>VA&#346;ISHTHA'S SPEECH</h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While thus the hapless monarch spoke,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Paternal love his utterance broke.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then words like these the saint returned,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And fury in his bosom burned:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Didst thou, O King, a promise make,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And wishest now thy word to break?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A son of Raghu's line should scorn</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To fail in faith, a man forsworn.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But if thy soul can bear the shame</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I will return e'en as I came.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Live with thy sons, and joy be thine,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>False scion of Kakutstha's line.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As Vi&#347;v&aacute;mitra, mighty sage,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was moved with this tempestuous rage,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Earth rocked and reeled throughout her frame,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And fear upon the Immortals came.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But Saint Va&#347;ishtha, wisest seer,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Observant of his vows austere,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Saw the whole world convulsed with dread,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thus unto the monarch said:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Thou, born of old Ikshv&aacute;ku's seed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Art Justice' self in mortal weed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Constant and pious, blest by fate,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The right thou must not violate.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou, Raghu's son, so famous through</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The triple world as just and true,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Perform thy bounden duty still,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor stain thy race by deed of ill.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If thou have sworn and now refuse</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou must thy store of merit lose.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then, Monarch, let thy R&aacute;ma go?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor fear for him the demon foe.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The fiends shall have no power to hurt</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Him trained to war or inexpert&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor vanquish him in battle field,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For Ku&#347;ik's son the youth will shield.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He is incarnate Justice, he</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The best of men for bravery&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Embodied love of penance drear,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Among the wise without a peer.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Full well he knows, great Ku&#347;ik's son,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The arms celestial, every one,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Arms from the Gods themselves concealed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Far less to other men revealed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>These arms to him, when earth he swayed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Mighty Kri&#347;&aacute;&#347;va, pleased, conveyed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Kri&#347;&aacute;&#347;va's sons they are indeed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Brought forth by Daksha's lovely seed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Heralds of conquest, strong and bold,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Brilliant, of semblance manifold.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Jay&aacute; and Vijay&aacute;, most fair,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A hundred splendid weapons bare;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Jay&aacute;, glorious as the morn,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>First fifty noble sons were born,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Boundless in size yet viewless too,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They came the demons to subdue.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And fifty children also came</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Vijay&aacute; the beauteous dame,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sanh&aacute;ras named, of mighty force,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hard to assail or check in course;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of these the hermit knows the use,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And weapons new can he produce.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All these the mighty saint will yield</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To R&aacute;ma's hand, to own and wield;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And armed with these, beyond a doubt</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shall R&aacute;ma put those fiends to rout.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For R&aacute;ma and the people's sake,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For thine own good my counsel take,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor seek, O King, with fond delay,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The parting of thy son to stay.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_XXIV'></a><h3>CANTO XXIV</h3>
+
+<h4>THE SPELLS</h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Va&#347;ishtha thus was speaking still:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The monarch, of his own free will,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bade with quick zeal and joyful cheer</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>R&aacute;ma and Lakshman hasten near.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Mother and sire in loving care</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sped their dear son with rite and prayer;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Va&#347;ishtha blessed him ere he went,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>O'er his loved head the father bent&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And then to Ku&#347;ik's son resigned</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>R&aacute;ma with Lakshman close behind.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Standing by Vi&#347;v&aacute;mitra's side,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The youthful hero, lotus-eyed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Wind-God saw, and sent a breeze</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whose sweet pure touch just waved the trees.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>There fell from heaven a flowery rain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And with the song and dance the strain</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of shell and tambour sweetly blent</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As forth the son of Raghu went.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hermit led: behind him came</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The bow-armed R&aacute;ma, dear to fame,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whose locks were like the raven's wing:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then Lakshman, closely following.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Gods and Indra, filled with joy,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Looked down upon the royal boy,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And much they longed the death to see</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of their ten-headed enemy.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>R&aacute;ma and Lakshman paced behind</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That hermit of the lofty mind,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As the young A&#347;vins, heavenly pair,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Follow Lord Indra through the air.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On arm and hand the guard they wore,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Quiver and bow and sword they bore;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Two fire-born Gods of War seemed they,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He, &#346;iva's self who led the way.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upon fair Sarj&uacute;'s southern shore</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They now had walked a league or more,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When thus the sage in accents mild</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To R&aacute;ma said: &quot;Beloved child,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This lustral water duly touch:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My counsel will avail thee much.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Forget not all the words I say,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor let the occasion slip away.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lo, with two spells I thee invest,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The mighty and the mightiest.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>O'er thee fatigue shall ne'er prevail,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor age nor change thy limbs assail.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thee powers of darkness ne'er shall smite</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In tranquil sleep or wild delight.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No one is there in all the land</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thine equal for the vigorous hand.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou, when thy lips pronounce the spell,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shalt have no peer in heaven or hell.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>None in the world with thee shall vie,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>O sinless one, in apt reply&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In fortune, knowledge, wit, and tact,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wisdom to plan and skill to act.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This double science take, and gain</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Glory that shall for aye remain.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wisdom and judgment spring from each</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of these fair spells whose use I teach.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hunger and thirst unknown to thee,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>High in the worlds thy rank shall be.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For these two spells with might endued,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Are the Great Father's heavenly brood,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thee, O Chief, may fitly grace,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou glory of Kakutstha's race.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Virtues which none can match are thine,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lord, from thy birth, of gifts divine&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And now these spells of might shall cast</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fresh radiance o'er the gifts thou hast.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then R&aacute;ma duly touched the wave,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Raised suppliant hands, bowed low his head,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And took the spells the hermit gave,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whose soul on contemplation fed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From him whose might these gifts enhanced</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A brighter beam of glory glanced:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So shines in all his autumn blaze</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Day-God of the thousand rays.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hermit's wants those youths supplied,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As pupils used to holy guide.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And then the night in sweet content</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On Sarj&uacute;'s pleasant bank they spent.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_XXV'></a><h3>CANTO XXV</h3>
+
+<h4>THE HERMITAGE OF LOVE</h4>
+
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Soon as appeared the morning light</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Up rose the mighty anchorite,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thus to youthful R&aacute;ma said,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who lay upon his leafy bed:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;High fate is hers who calls thee son:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Arise, 'tis break of day;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rise, Chief, and let those rites be done</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Due at the morning's ray.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>At that great sage's high behest</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Up sprang the princely pair,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To bathing rites themselves addressed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And breathed the holiest prayer.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their morning task completed, they</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Vi&#347;v&aacute;mitra came,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That store of holy works, to pay</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The worship saints may claim.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then to the hallowed spot they went</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Along fair Sarj&uacute;'s side</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where mix her waters confluent</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With three-pathed Gang&aacute;'s tide.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>There was a sacred hermitage</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where saints devout of mind</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their lives through many a lengthened age</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To penance had resigned.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That pure abode the princes eyed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With unrestrained delight,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thus unto the saint they cried,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rejoicing at the sight:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Whose is that hermitage we see?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who makes his dwelling there?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Full of desire to hear are we:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>O Saint, the truth declare.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hermit, smiling, made reply</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To the two boys' request:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Hear, R&aacute;ma, who in days gone by</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This calm retreat possessed&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Kandarpa in apparent form,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>(Called K&aacute;ma by the wise,)</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Dared Um&aacute;'s new-wed lord to storm</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And make the God his prize.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Gainst Sth&aacute;nu's self, on rites austere</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And vows intent, they say,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His bold rash hand he dared to rear,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Though Sth&aacute;nu cried, Away!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But the God's eye with scornful glare</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fell terrible on him,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Dissolved the shape that was so fair</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And burnt up every limb.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Since the great God's terrific rage</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Destroyed his form and frame,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>K&aacute;ma in each succeeding age</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Has borne Ananga's name.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So, where his lovely form decayed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This land is Anga styled:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sacred to him of old this shade,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And hermits undefiled.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Here Scripture-talking elders sway</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each sense with firm control,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And penance-rites have washed away</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All sin from every soul.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One night, fair boy, we here will spend,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A pure stream on each hand,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And with to-morrow's light will bend</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Our steps to yonder strand.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Here let us bathe, and free from stain</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To that pure grove repair,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sacred to K&aacute;ma, and remain</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One night in comfort there.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With penance' far-discerning eye</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The saintly men beheld</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their coming, and with transport high</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each holy bosom swelled.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Ku&#347;ik's son the gift they gave</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That honored guest should greet&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Water they brought his feet to lave,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And showed him honor meet.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>R&aacute;ma and Lakshman next obtained</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In due degree their share&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then with sweet talk the guests remained,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And charmed each listener there.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The evening prayers were duly said</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With voices calm and low:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then on the ground each laid his head</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And slept till morning's glow.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_XXVI'></a><h3>CANTO XXVI</h3>
+
+<h4>THE FOREST OF T&Aacute;DAK&Aacute;</h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When the fair light of morning rose</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The princely tamers of their foes</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Followed, his morning worship o'er,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hermit to the river's shore.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The high-souled men with thoughtful care</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A pretty barge had stationed there.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All cried, &quot;O lord, this barge ascend,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And with thy princely followers bend</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To yonder side thy prosperous way&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With nought to check thee or delay.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor did the saint their rede reject:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He bade farewell with due respect,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And crossed, attended by the twain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That river rushing to the main.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When now the bark was half-way o'er,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>R&aacute;ma and Lakshman heard the roar,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That louder grew and louder yet,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of waves by dashing waters met.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then R&aacute;ma asked the mighty seer:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;What is the tumult that I hear</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of waters cleft in mid-career?&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Soon as the speech of R&aacute;ma, stirred</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By deep desire to know, he heard,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The pious saint began to tell</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What caused the waters' roar and swell:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;On high Kail&aacute;sa's distant hill</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>There lies a noble lake</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whose waters, born from Brahm&aacute;'s will,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The name of M&aacute;nas take.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thence, hallowing where'er they flow,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The streams of Sarj&uacute; fall,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And wandering through the plains below</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Embrace Ayodhy&aacute;'s wall.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Still, still preserved in Sarj&uacute;'s name</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sarovar's fame we trace,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The flood of Brahm&aacute; whence she came</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To run her holy race.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To meet great Gang&aacute; here she hies</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With tributary wave&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hence the loud roar ye hear arise,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of floods that swell and rave.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Here, pride of Raghu's line, do thou</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In humble adoration bow.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He spoke. The princes both obeyed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And reverence to each river paid.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They reached the southern shore at last,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And gayly on their journey passed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A little space beyond there stood</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A gloomy awe-inspiring wood.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The monarch's noble son began</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To question thus the holy man:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Whose gloomy forest meets mine eye,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like some vast cloud that fills the sky?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Pathless and dark it seems to be,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where birds in thousands wander free;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where shrill cicadas' cries resound,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And fowl of dismal note abound.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lion, rhinoceros, and bear,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Boar, tiger, elephant, are there,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>There shrubs and thorns run wild:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Dh&aacute;o, S&aacute;l, Bignonia, Bel, are found,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And every tree that grows on ground:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How is the forest styled?&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The glorious saint this answer made:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Dear child of Raghu, hear</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who dwells within the horrid shade</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That looks so dark and drear.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where now is wood, long ere this day</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Two broad and fertile lands,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Malaja and Kar&uacute;sha lay,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Adorned by heavenly hands.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Here, mourning friendship's broken ties,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lord Indra of the thousand eyes</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hungered and sorrowed many a day,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His brightness soiled with mud and clay,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When in a storm of passion he</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Had slain his dear friend Namuchi.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then came the Gods and saints who bore</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their golden pitchers brimming o'er</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With holy streams that banish stain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And bathed Lord Indra pure again.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When in this land the God was freed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From spot and stain of impious deed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For that his own dear friend he slew,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>High transport thrilled his bosom through.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then in his joy the lands he blessed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And gave a boon they long possessed:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Because these fertile lands retain</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The washings of the blot and stain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>('Twas thus Lord Indra sware,)</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Malaja and Kar&uacute;sha's name</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shall celebrate with deathless fame</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My malady and care.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;So be it,&quot; all the Immortals cried,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When Indra's speech they heard&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And with acclaim they ratified</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The names his lips conferred.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Long time, O victor of thy foes,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>These happy lands had sweet repose,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And higher still in fortune rose.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>At length a spirit, loving ill,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>T&aacute;dak&aacute;, wearing shapes at will&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whose mighty strength, exceeding vast,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A thousand elephants' surpassed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was to fierce Sunda, lord and head</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of all the demon armies, wed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From her, Lord Indra's peer in might</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Giant M&aacute;r&iacute;cha sprang to light;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And she, a constant plague and pest,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>These two fair realms has long distressed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Now dwelling in her dark abode</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A league away she bars the road:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And we, O R&aacute;ma, hence must go</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where lies the forest of the foe.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Now on thine own right arm rely,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And my command obey:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Smite the foul monster that she die,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And take the plague away.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To reach this country none may dare,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fallen from its old estate,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which she, whose fury nought can bear,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Has left so desolate.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And now my truthful tale is told&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How with accursed sway</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The spirit plagued this wood of old,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And ceases not to-day.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_XXVII'></a><h3>CANTO XXVII</h3>
+
+<h4>THE BIRTH OF T&Aacute;DAK&Aacute;</h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When thus the sage without a peer</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Had closed that story strange to hear,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>R&aacute;ma again the saint addressed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To set one lingering doubt at rest:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;O holy man, 'tis said by all</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That spirits' strength is weak and small,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How can she match, of power so slight,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A thousand elephants in might?&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Vi&#347;v&aacute;mitra thus replied</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Raghu's son, the glorified:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Listen, and I will tell thee how</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She gained the strength that arms her now.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A mighty spirit lived of yore;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Suketu was the name he bore.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Childless was he, and free from crime</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In rites austere he passed his time.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The mighty Sire was pleased to show</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His favor, and a child bestow,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>T&aacute;dak&aacute; named, most fair to see,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A pearl among the maids was she&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And matched, for such was Brahm&aacute;'s dower,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A thousand elephants in power.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor would the Eternal Sire, although</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The spirit longed, a son bestow.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That maid in beauty's youthful pride</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was given to Sunda for a bride.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her son, M&aacute;r&iacute;cha was his name,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A giant, through a curse, became.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She, widowed, dared with him molest</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Agastya, of all saints the best.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Inflamed with hunger's wildest rage,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Roaring she rushed upon the sage.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When the great hermit saw her near,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On-speeding in her fierce career,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He thus pronounced M&aacute;r&iacute;cha's doom:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'A giant's form and shape assume,'</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And then, by mighty anger swayed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On T&aacute;dak&aacute; this curse he laid:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Thy present form and semblance quit,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And wear a shape thy mood to fit;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Changed form and feature by my ban,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A fearful thing that feeds on man.'</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She, by his awful curse possessed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And mad with rage that fills her breast,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Has on this land her fury dealt</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where once the saint Agastya dwelt.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Go, R&aacute;ma, smite this monster dead,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The wicked plague, of power so dread,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And further by this deed of thine</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The good of Br&aacute;hmans and of kine.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy hand alone can overthrow,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In all the worlds, this impious foe.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor let compassion lead thy mind</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To shrink from blood of womankind;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A monarch's son must ever count</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The people's welfare paramount&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And whether pain or joy he deal</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Dare all things for his subjects' weal;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yea, if the deed bring praise or guilt,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If life be saved or blood be spilt:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Such, through all time, should be the care</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of those a kingdom's weight who bear.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Slay, R&aacute;ma, slay this impious fiend,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For by no law her life is screened.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So Manthar&aacute;, as bards have told,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Virochan's child, was slain of old</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By Indra, when in furious hate</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She longed the earth to devastate.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So K&aacute;vya's mother, Bhrigu's wife,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who loved her husband as her life,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When Indra's throne she sought to gain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By Vishnu's hand of yore was slain.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By these and high-souled kings beside,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Struck down, have lawless women died.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_XXVIII'></a><h3>CANTO XXVIII</h3>
+
+<h4>THE DEATH OF T&Aacute;DAK&Aacute;</h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus spoke the saint. Each vigorous word</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The noble monarch's offspring heard&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, reverent hands together laid,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His answer to the hermit made:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;My sire and mother bade me aye</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy word, O mighty Saint, obey.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So will I, O most glorious, kill</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This T&aacute;dak&aacute; who joys in ill&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For such my sire's, and such thy will.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To aid with mine avenging hand</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Br&aacute;hmans, kine, and all the land,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Obedient, heart and soul, I stand.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus spoke the tamer of the foe,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And by the middle grasped his bow.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Strongly he drew the sounding string</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That made the distant welkin ring.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Scared by the mighty clang the deer</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That roamed the forest shook with fear.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And T&aacute;dak&aacute; the echo heard,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And rose in haste from slumber stirred.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In wild amaze, her soul aflame</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With fury towards the spot she came.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When that foul shape of evil mien</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And stature vast as e'er was seen</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The wrathful son of Raghu eyed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He thus unto his brother cried:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Her dreadful shape, O Lakshman, see,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A form to shudder at and flee.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hideous monster's very view</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Would cleave a timid heart in two.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Behold the demon hard to smite,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Defended by her magic might.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My hand shall stay her course to-day,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And shear her nose and ears away.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No heart have I her life to take:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I spare it for her sex's sake.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My will is but&mdash;with minished force&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To check her in her evil course.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While thus he spoke, by rage impelled&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Roaring as she came nigh,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The fiend her course at R&aacute;ma held</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With huge arms tossed on high.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her, rushing on, the seer assailed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With a loud cry of hate;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thus the sons of Raghu hailed:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Fight, and be fortunate.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then from the earth a horrid cloud</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of dust the demon raised,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And for awhile in darkling shroud</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wrapt Raghu's sons amazed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then calling on her magic power</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The fearful fight to wage,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She smote him with a stony shower,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Till R&aacute;ma burned with rage.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then pouring forth his arrowy rain</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That stony flood to stay,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With wing&egrave;d darts, as she charged amain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He shore her hands away.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As T&aacute;dak&aacute; still thundered near</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus maimed by R&aacute;ma's blows,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lakshman in fury severed sheer</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The monster's ears and nose.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Assuming by her magic skill</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A fresh and fresh disguise,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She tried a thousand shapes at will,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then vanished from their eyes.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When G&aacute;dhi's son of high renown</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Still saw the stony rain pour down</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upon each princely warrior's head,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With words of wisdom thus he said:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Enough of mercy, R&aacute;ma, lest</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This sinful evil-working pest,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Disturber of each holy rite,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Repair by magic arts her might.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Without delay the fiend should die,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For, see, the twilight hour is nigh.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And at the joints of night and day</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Such giant foes are hard to slay.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then R&aacute;ma, skilful to direct</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His arrow to the sound&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With shafts the mighty demon checked</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who rained her stones around.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She, sore impeded and beset</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By R&aacute;ma and his arrowy net&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Though skilled in guile and magic lore,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rushed on the brothers with a roar.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Deformed, terrific, murderous, dread,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Swift as the levin on she sped&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like cloudy pile in autumn's sky,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lifting her two vast arms on high:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When R&aacute;ma smote her with a dart</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shaped like a crescent, to the heart.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sore wounded by the shaft that came</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With lightning speed and surest aim,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Blood spurting from her mouth and side,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She fell upon the earth and died.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Soon as the Lord who rules the sky</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Saw the dread monster lifeless lie,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He called aloud, Well done! well done!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And the Gods honored Raghu's son.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Standing in heaven the Thousand-eyed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With all the Immortals, joying cried:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Lift up thine eyes, O Saint, and see</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Gods and Indra nigh to thee.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This deed of R&aacute;ma's boundless might</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Has filled our bosoms with delight.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Now, for our will would have it so,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Raghu's son some favor show.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Invest him with the power which nought</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But penance gains, and holy thought.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Those heavenly arms on him bestow&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To thee entrusted long ago</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By great Kri&#347;&aacute;&#347;va best of kings,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Son of the Lord of living things.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>More fit recipient none can be</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Than he who joys in following thee;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And for our sakes the monarch's seed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Has yet to do a mighty deed.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He spoke; and all the heavenly train</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rejoicing sought their homes again,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While honor to the saint they paid&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then came the evening's twilight shade.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The best of hermits overjoyed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To know the monstrous fiend destroyed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His lips on R&aacute;ma's forehead pressed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thus the conquering chief addressed:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;O R&aacute;ma, gracious to the sight,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Here will we pass the present night,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And with the morrow's earliest ray</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bend to my hermitage our way.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The son of Da&#347;aratha heard,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Delighted, Vi&#347;v&aacute;mitra's word&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And as he bade, that night he spent</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In T&aacute;dak&aacute;'s wild wood, content.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And the grove shone that happy day,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Freed from the curse that on it lay&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like Chaitraratha fair and gay.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_XXIX'></a><h3>CANTO XXIX</h3>
+
+<h4>THE CELESTIAL ARMS</h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That night they slept and took their rest;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And then the mighty saint addressed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With pleasant smile and accents mild</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>These words to Raghu's princely child:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Well pleased am I. High fate be thine,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou scion of a royal line.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Now will I, for I love thee so,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All heavenly arms on thee bestow.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Victor with these, whoe'er oppose,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy hand shall conquer all thy foes&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Though Gods and spirits of the air,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Serpents and fiends, the conflict dare.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I'll give thee as a pledge of love</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The mystic arms they use above,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For worthy thou to have revealed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The weapons I have learnt to wield.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>First, son of Raghu, shall be thine</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The arm of Vengeance, strong, divine:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The arm of Fate, the arm of Right,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Vishnu's arm of awful might:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That, before which no foe can stand,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The thunderbolt of Indra's hand;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And &#346;iva's trident, sharp and dread,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And that dire weapon, Brahm&aacute;'s Head.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And two fair clubs, O royal child,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One Charmer and one Pointed styled&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With flame of lambent fire aglow,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On thee, O Chieftain, I bestow.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Fate's dread net and Justice' noose</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That none may conquer, for thy use:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And the great cord, renowned of old,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which Varun ever loves to hold.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Take these two thunderbolts, which I</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Have got for thee, the Moist and Dry.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Here &#346;iva's dart to thee I yield,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And that which Vishnu wont to wield.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I give to thee the arm of Fire,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Desired by all and named the Spire.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To thee I grant the Wind-God's dart,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Named Crusher, O thou pure of heart.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This arm, the Horse's Head, accept,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And this, the Curlew's Bill yclept,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And these two spears, the best e'er flew,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Named the Invincible and True.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And arms of fiends I make thine own,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Skull-wreath and mace that smashes bone.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Joyous, which the spirits bear,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Great weapon of the sons of air.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Brave offspring of the best of lords,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I give thee now the Gem of swords&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And offer next, thine hand to arm,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The heavenly bard's beloved charm.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Now with two arms I thee invest</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of never-ending Sleep and Rest&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With weapons of the Sun and Rain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And those that dry and burn amain;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And strong Desire with conquering touch,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The dart that K&aacute;ma prizes much.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I give the arm of shadowy powers</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That bleeding flesh of man devours.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I give the arms the God of Gold</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And giant fiends exult to hold.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This smites the foe in battle-strife,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And takes his fortune, strength, and life.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I give the arms called False and True,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And great Illusion give I too;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hero's arm called Strong and Bright</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That spoils the foeman's strength in fight.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I give thee as a priceless boon</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Dew, the weapon of the Moon,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And add the weapon, deftly planned,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That strengthens Vi&#347;vakarm&aacute;'s hand.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Mortal dart whose point is chill,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Slaughter, ever sure to kill;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All these and other arms, for thou</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Art very dear, I give thee now.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Receive these weapons from my hand,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Son of the noblest in the land.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Facing the east, the glorious saint</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Pure from all spot of earthly taint,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To R&aacute;ma, with delighted mind,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That noble host of spells consigned.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He taught the arms, whose lore is won</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hardly by Gods, to Raghu's son.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He muttered low the spell whose call</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Summons those arms and rules them all&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And each, in visible form and frame,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Before the monarch's son they came.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They stood and spoke in reverent guise</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To R&aacute;ma with exulting cries:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;O noblest child of Raghu, see,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy ministers and thralls are we.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With joyful heart and eager hand</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>R&aacute;ma received the wondrous band,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thus with words of welcome cried:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Aye present to my will abide&quot;&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then hasted to the saint to pay</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Due reverence, and pursued his way.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_XXX'></a><h3>CANTO XXX</h3>
+
+<h4>THE MYSTERIOUS POWERS</h4>
+
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Pure, with glad cheer and joyful breast,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of those mysterious arms possessed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>R&aacute;ma, now passing on his way,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus to the saint began to say:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Lord of these mighty weapons, I</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Can scarce be harmed by Gods on high;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Now, best of saints, I long to gain</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The powers that can these arms restrain.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus spoke the prince. The sage austere,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>True to his vows, from evil clear,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Called forth the names of those great charms</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whose powers restrain the deadly arms.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Receive thou True and Truly-famed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Bold and Fleet: the weapons named</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Warder and Progress, swift of pace,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Averted-head and Drooping-face;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Seen, and that which Secret flies&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The weapon of the thousand eyes;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ten-headed, and the Hundred-faced,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Star-gazer and the Layer-waste;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Omen-bird, the Pure-from-spot,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The pair that wake and slumber not;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Fiendish, that which shakes amain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Strong-of-Hand, the Rich-in-Gain;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Guardian, and the Close-allied,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Gaper, Love, and Golden-side:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>O Raghu's son receive all these,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bright ones that wear what forms they please;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Kri&#347;&aacute;&#347;va's mystic sons are they,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And worthy thou their might to sway.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With joy the pride of Raghu's race</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Received the hermit's proffered grace&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Mysterious arms, to check and stay,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or smite the foeman in the fray.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then, all with heavenly forms endued,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nigh came the wondrous multitude.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Celestial in their bright attire</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Some shone like coals of burning fire&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Some were like clouds of dusky smoke;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And suppliant thus they sweetly spoke:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Thy thralls, O R&aacute;ma, here we stand&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Command, we pray, thy faithful band.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Depart,&quot; he cried, &quot;where each may list,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But when I call you to assist,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Be present to my mind with speed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And aid me in the hour of need.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To R&aacute;ma then they lowly bent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And round him in due reverence went&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To his command they answered, &quot;Yea,&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And as they came so went away.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When thus the arms had homeward flown,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With pleasant words and modest tone,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>E'en as he walked, the prince began</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To question thus the holy man:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;What cloudlike wood is that which near</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The mountain's side I see appear?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>O tell me, for I long to know:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Its pleasant aspect charms me so.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Its glades are full of deer at play,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And sweet birds sing on every spray.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Passed is the hideous wild&mdash;I feel</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So sweet a tremor o'er me steal&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And hail with transport fresh and new</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A land that is so fair to view.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then tell me all, thou holy Sage,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And whose this pleasant hermitage</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In which those wicked ones delight</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To mar and kill each holy rite&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And with foul heart and evil deed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy sacrifice, great Saint, impede.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To whom, O Sage, belongs this land</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In which thine altars ready stand?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Tis mine to guard them, and to slay</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The giants who the rites would stay.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All this, O best of saints, I burn</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From thine own lips, my lord, to learn.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_XXXI'></a><h3>CANTO XXXI</h3>
+
+<h4>THE PERFECT HERMITAGE</h4>
+
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus spoke the prince of boundless might,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thus replied the anchorite:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Chief of the mighty arm, of yore</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lord Vishnu, whom the Gods adore</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For holy thought and rites austere,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of penance made his dwelling here.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This ancient wood was called of old</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Grove of the Dwarf, the mighty-souled&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And when perfection he attained</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The grove the name of Perfect gained.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bali of yore, Virochan's son,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Dominion over Indra won&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And when with power his proud heart swelled,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>O'er the three worlds his empire held.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When Bali then began a rite,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Gods and Indra in affright</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sought Vishnu in this place of rest,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thus with prayers the God addressed:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Bali, Virochan's mighty son,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His sacrifice has now begun:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of boundless wealth, that demon king</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is bounteous to each living thing.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Though suppliants flock from every side</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The suit of none is e'er denied.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whate'er, where'er, howe'er the call,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He hears the suit and gives to all.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Now with thine own illusive art</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Perform, O Lord, the helper's part:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Assume a dwarfish form, and thus</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From fear and danger rescue us.'</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus in their dread the Immortals sued</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The God, a dwarfish shape indued:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Before Virochan's son he came,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Three steps of land his only claim.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The boon obtained, in wondrous wise</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lord Vishnu's form increased in size;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Through all the worlds, tremendous, vast,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>God of the Triple Step, he passed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The whole broad earth from side to side</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He measured with one mighty stride&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Spanned with the next the firmament,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And with the third through heaven he went.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus was the king of demons hurled</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By Vishnu to the nether world&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thus the universe restored</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Indra's rule, its ancient lord.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And now because the Immortal God</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This spot in dwarflike semblance trod,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The grove has aye been loved by me</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For reverence of the devotee.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But demons haunt it, prompt to stay</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each holy offering I would pay.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Be thine, O lion-lord, to kill</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>These giants that delight in ill.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This day, beloved child, our feet</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shall rest within the calm retreat;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And know, thou chief of Raghu's line,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My hermitage is also thine.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He spoke; and soon the anchorite,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With joyous looks that beamed delight,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With R&aacute;ma and his brother stood</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Within the consecrated wood.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Soon as they saw the holy man,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With one accord together ran</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The dwellers in the sacred shade,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And to the saint their reverence paid&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And offered water for his feet,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The gift of honor, and a seat;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And next with hospitable care</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They entertained the princely pair.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The royal tamers of their foes</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rested awhile in sweet repose&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then to the chief of hermits sued</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Standing in suppliant attitude:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Begin, O best of saints, we pray,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Initiatory rites to-day.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This Perfect Grove shall be anew</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Made perfect, and thy words be true.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then, thus addressed, the holy man,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The very glorious sage, began</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The high preliminary rite,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Restraining sense and appetite.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Calmly the youths that night reposed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And rose when morn her light disclosed&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their morning worship paid, and took</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of lustral water from the brook.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus purified they breathed the prayer,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then greeted Vi&#347;v&aacute;mitra where</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As celebrant he sate beside</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The flame with sacred oil supplied.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_XXXII'></a><h3>CANTO XXXII</h3>
+
+<h4>VI&#346;V&Aacute;MITRA'S SACRIFICE</h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That conquering pair, of royal race,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Skilled to observe due time and place&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To K&uacute;&#347;ik's hermit son addressed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In timely words, their meet request:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;When must we, lord, we pray thee tell,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Those Rovers of the Night repel?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Speak, lest we let the moment fly,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And pass the due occasion by.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus longing for the strife, they prayed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thus the hermit's answer made:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Till the fifth day be come and past,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>O Raghu's sons, your watch must last.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The saint his D&iacute;ksh&aacute; has begun,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And all that time will speak to none.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Soon as the steadfast devotees</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Had made reply in words like these,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The youths began, disdaining sleep,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Six days and nights their watch to keep&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The warrior pair who tamed the foe,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unrivalled benders of the bow,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Kept watch and ward unwearied still</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To guard the saint from scathe and ill.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Twas now the sixth returning day, </span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hour foretold had passed away.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then R&aacute;ma cried: &quot;O Lakshman, now!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Firm, watchful, resolute be thou.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The fiends as yet have kept afar</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From the pure grove in which we are;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yet waits us, ere the day shall close,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Dire battle with the demon foes.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While thus spoke R&aacute;ma, borne away</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By longing for the deadly fray,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>See! bursting from the altar came</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The sudden glory of the flame;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Round priest and deacon, and upon</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Grass, ladles, flowers, the splendor shone&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And the high rite, in order due,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With sacred texts began anew.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But then a loud and fearful roar</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Re-echoed through the sky;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And like vast clouds that shadow o'er</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The heavens in dark July,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Involved in gloom of magic might</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Two fiends rushed on amain&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>M&aacute;r&iacute;cha, Rover of the Night,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Suv&aacute;hu, and their train.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As on they came in wild career</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thick blood in rain they shed;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And R&aacute;ma saw those things of fear</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Impending overhead. Then, soon as those accursed two</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who showered down blood he spied,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus to his brother brave and true</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Spoke R&aacute;ma lotus-eyed:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Now, Lakshman, thou these fiends shalt see,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Man-eaters, foul of mind,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Before my mortal weapon flee</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like clouds before the wind.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He spoke. An arrow, swift as thought,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upon his bow he pressed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And smote, to utmost fury wrought,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>M&aacute;r&iacute;cha on the breast.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Deep in his flesh the weapon lay</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Winged by the mystic spell,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, hurled a hundred leagues away,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In ocean's flood he fell.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then R&aacute;ma, when he saw the foe</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Convulsed and mad with pain</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Neath the chill-pointed weapon's blow,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Lakshman spoke again:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;See, Lakshman, see! this mortal dart</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That strikes a numbing chill,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hath struck him senseless with the smart,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But left him breathing still.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But these who love the evil way</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And drink the blood they spill,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rejoicing holy rites to stay,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fierce plagues, my hand shall kill.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He seized another shaft, the best,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Aglow with living flame;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>It struck Suv&aacute;hu on the chest,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And dead to earth he came.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Again a dart, the Wind-God's own,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upon his string he laid,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And all the demons were overthrown&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The saints no more afraid.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When thus the fiends were slain in fight,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Disturbers of each holy rite,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Due honor by the saints was paid</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To R&aacute;ma for his wondrous aid:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So Indra is adored when he</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Has won some glorious victory.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Success at last the rite had crowned,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Vi&#347;v&aacute;mitra gazed around&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And seeing every side at rest,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The son of Raghu thus addressed:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;My joy, O Prince, is now complete&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou hast obeyed my will:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Perfect before, this calm retreat</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is now more perfect still.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_XXXIII'></a><h3>CANTO XXXIII</h3>
+
+<h4>THE SONE</h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their task achieved, the princes spent</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That night with joy and full content.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ere yet the dawn was well displayed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their morning rites they duly paid&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And sought, while yet the light was faint,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hermits and the mighty saint.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They greeted first that holy sire</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Resplendent like the burning fire,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And then with noble words began</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their sweet speech to the sainted man:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Here stand, O lord, thy servants true&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Command what thou wouldst have us do.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The saints, by Vi&#347;v&aacute;mitra led,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To R&aacute;ma thus in answer said:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Janak, the king who rules the land</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of fertile Mithil&aacute;, has planned</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A noble sacrifice, and we</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Will thither go the rite to see.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou, Prince of men, with us shalt go,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And there behold the wondrous bow&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Terrific, vast, of matchless might,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which, splendid at the famous rite,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Gods assembled gave the King.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No giant, fiend, or God can string</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That gem of bows, no heavenly bard;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then, sure, for man the task were hard.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When lords of earth have longed to know</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The virtue of that wondrous bow,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The strongest sons of kings in vain</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Have tried the mighty cord to strain.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This famous bow thou there shalt view,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And wondrous rites shalt witness too.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The high-souled king who lords it o'er</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The realm of Mithil&aacute;, of yore</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gained from the Gods this bow, the price</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of his imperial sacrifice.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Won by the rite the glorious prize</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Still in his royal palace lies&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Laid up in oil of precious scent</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With aloes-wood and incense blent.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then R&aacute;ma answering, &quot;Be it so,&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Made ready with the rest to go.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The saint himself was now prepared,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But ere beyond the grove he fared,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He turned him and in words like these</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Addressed the sylvan deities:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Farewell! each holy rite complete,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I leave the hermits' perfect seat:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Gang&aacute;'s northern shore I go</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Beneath Him&aacute;laya's peaks of snow.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With reverent steps he paced around</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The limits of the holy ground&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And then the mighty saint set forth</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And took his journey to the north.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His pupils, deep in Scripture's page,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Followed behind the holy sage,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And servants from the sacred grove</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A hundred wains for convoy drove.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The very birds that winged that air,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The very deer that harbored there,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Forsook the glade and leafy brake</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And followed for the hermits' sake.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They travelled far, till in the west</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The sun was speeding to his rest,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And made, their portioned journey o'er,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their halt on &#346;ona's distant shore.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hermits bathed when sank the sun,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And every rite was duly done&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Oblations paid to Fire, and then</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sate round their chief the holy men.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>R&aacute;ma and Lakshman lowly bowed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In reverence to the hermit crowd&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And R&aacute;ma, having sate him down</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Before the saint of pure renown,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With humble palms together laid</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His eager supplication made:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;What country, O my lord, is this,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fair-smiling in her wealth and bliss?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Deign fully, O thou mighty Seer,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To tell me, for I long to hear.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Moved by the prayer of R&aacute;ma, he</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Told forth the country's history.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_XXXIV'></a><h3>CANTO XXXIV</h3>
+
+<h4>BRAHMADATTA</h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A king of Brahm&aacute;'s seed who bore</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The name of K&uacute;sa reigned of yore.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Just, faithful to his vows, and true,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He held the good in honor due.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His bride, a queen of noble name,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of old Vidarbha's monarchs came.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like their own father, children four,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All valiant boys, the lady bore.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In glorious deeds each nerve they strained,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And well their Warrior part sustained.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To them most just, and true, and brave,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their father thus his counsel gave:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Beloved children, ne'er forget</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Protection is a prince's debt:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The noble work at once begin,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>High virtue and her fruits to win.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The youths, to all the people dear,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Received his speech with willing ear;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And each went forth his several way,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Foundations of a town to lay.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ku&#347;&aacute;mba, prince of high renown,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was builder of Kau&#347;&aacute;mb&iacute;'s town,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Ku&#347;an&aacute;bha, just and wise,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bade high Mahodaya's towers arise.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Am&uacute;rtarajas chose to dwell</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In Dharm&aacute;ranya's citadel,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Vasu bade his city fair</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The name of Girivraja bear.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This fertile spot whereon we stand</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was once the high-souled Vasu's land.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Behold! as round we turn our eyes,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Five lofty mountain peaks arise.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>See! bursting from her parent hill,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sum&aacute;gadh&iacute;, a lovely rill,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bright gleaming as she flows between</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The mountains, like a wreath is seen&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And then through Magadh's plains and groves</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With many a fair meander roves.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And this was Vasu's old domain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The fertile Magadh's broad champaign,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which smiling fields of tilth adorn</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And diadem with golden corn.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The queen Ghrit&aacute;ch&iacute;, nymph most fair,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Married to Ku&#347;an&aacute;bha, bare</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A hundred daughters lovely faced,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With every charm and beauty graced.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>It chanced the maidens, bright and gay</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As lightning-flashes on a day</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of rain-time, to the garden went</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With song and play and merriment&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And there in gay attire they strayed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And danced, and laughed, and sang, and played.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The God of Wind who roves at will</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All places, as he lists, to fill,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Saw the young maidens dancing there,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of faultless shape and mien most fair&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;I love you all, sweet girls,&quot; he cried,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;And each shall be my darling bride.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Forsake, forsake your mortal lot,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And gain a life that withers not.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A fickle thing is youth's brief span,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And more than all is mortal man.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Receive unending youth, and be</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Immortal, O my loves, with me,&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hundred girls, to wonder stirred,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The wooing of the Wind-God heard,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Laughed, as a jest, his suit aside,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And with one voice they thus replied:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;O mighty Wind, free spirit who</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All life pervadest, through and through&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy wondrous power we maidens know;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then wherefore wilt thou mock us so?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Our sire is Ku&#347;an&aacute;bha, King;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And we, forsooth, have charms to bring</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A God to woo us from the skies;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But honor first we maidens prize.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Far may the hour, we pray, be hence,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When we, O thou of little sense,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Our truthful father's choice refuse,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And for ourselves our husbands choose.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Our honored sire our lord we deem,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He is to us a God supreme&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And they to whom his high decree</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>May give us shall our husbands be.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He heard the answer they returned,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And mighty rage within him burned.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On each fair maid a blast he sent&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each stately form he bowed and bent.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bent double by the Wind-God's ire</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They sought the palace of their sire,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>There fell upon the ground with sighs,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While tears and shame were in their eyes.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The King himself, with, troubled brow,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Saw his dear girls so fair but now,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A mournful sight all bent and bowed&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And grieving, thus he cried aloud:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;What fate is this, and what the cause?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What wretch has scorned all heavenly laws?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who thus your forms could curve and break?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>You struggle, but no answer make.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They heard the speech of that wise king</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of their misfortune questioning.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Again the hundred maidens sighed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Touched with their heads his feet, and cried:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;The God of Wind, pervading space,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Would bring on us a foul disgrace,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And choosing folly's evil way</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From virtue's path in scorn would stray.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But we in words like these reproved</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The God of Wind whom passion moved:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Farewell, O Lord! A sire have we,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No women uncontrolled and free.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Go, and our sire's consent obtain</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If thou our maiden hands wouldst gain.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No self-dependent life we live:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If we offend, our fault forgive,'</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But led by folly as a slave,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He would not hear the rede we gave,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And even as we gently spoke</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>We felt the Wind-God's crushing stroke.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The pious King, with grief distressed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The noble hundred thus addressed:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;With patience, daughters, bear your fate,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yours was a deed supremely great</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When with one mind you kept from shame</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The honor of your father's name.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Patience, when men their anger vent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is woman's praise and ornament;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yet when the Gods inflict the blow</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hard is it to support the woe.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Patience, my girls, exceeds all price&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Tis alms, and truth, and sacrifice.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Patience is virtue, patience fame:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Patience upholds this earthly frame.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And now, I think, is come the time</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To wed you in your maiden prime.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Now, daughters, go where'er you will:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thoughts for your good my mind shall fill.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The maidens went, consoled, away:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The best of kings, that very day,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Summoned his ministers of state</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>About their marriage to debate.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Since then, because the Wind-God bent</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The damsels' forms for punishment,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That royal town is known to fame</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By Kany&aacute;kubja's borrowed name.</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>There lived a sage called Ch&uacute;li then,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Devoutest of the sons of men;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His days in penance rites he spent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A glorious saint, most continent.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To him absorbed in tasks austere</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The child of Urm&iacute;l&aacute; draw near&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sweet Somad&aacute;, the heavenly maid,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And lent the saint her pious aid.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Long time near him the maiden spent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And served him meek and reverent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Till the great hermit, pleased with her,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus spoke unto his minister:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Grateful am I for all thy care&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Blest maiden, speak, thy wish declare.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The sweet-voiced nymph rejoiced to see</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The favor of the devotee,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And to that excellent old man,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Most eloquent she thus began:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Thou hast, by heavenly grace sustained,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Close union with the Godhead gained.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I long, O Saint, to see a son</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By force of holy penance won.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unwed, a maiden life I live:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A son to me, thy suppliant, give.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The saint with favor heard her prayer,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And gave a son exceeding fair.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Him, Ch&uacute;li's spiritual child,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His mother Brahmadatta styled.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>King Brahmadatta, rich and great,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In K&aacute;mpil&iacute; maintained his state&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ruling, like Indra in his bliss,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His fortunate metropolis.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>King Ku&#347;an&aacute;bha planned that he</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His hundred daughters' lord should be.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To him, obedient to his call,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The happy monarch gave them all.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like Indra then he took the hand</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of every maiden of the band.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Soon as the hand of each young maid</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In Brahmadatta's palm was laid,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Deformity and cares away,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She shone in beauty bright and gay.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their freedom from the Wind-God's might</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Saw Ku&#347;an&aacute;bha with delight.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each glance that on their forms he threw</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Filled him with raptures ever new.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then when the rites were all complete,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With highest marks of honor meet</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The bridegroom with his brides he sent</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To his great seat of government.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The nymph received with pleasant speech</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her daughters; and, embracing each,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upon their forms she fondly gazed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And royal Ku&#347;an&aacute;bha praised.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_XXXV'></a><h3>CANTO XXXV</h3>
+
+<h4>VI&#346;V&Aacute;MITRA'S LINEAGE</h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The rites were o'er, the maids were wed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The bridegroom to his home was sped.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The sonless monarch bade prepare</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A sacrifice to gain an heir.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then Ku&#347;a, Brahm&aacute;'s son, appeared,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thus King Ku&#347;an&aacute;bha cheered:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Thou shalt, my child, obtain a son</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like thine own self, O holy one.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Through him forever, G&aacute;dhi named,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shalt thou in all the worlds be famed.'</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He spoke and vanished from the sight</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Brahm&aacute;'s world of endless light.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Time fled, and, as the saint foretold,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>G&aacute;dhi was born, the holy-souled.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My sire was he; through him I trace</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My line from royal K&uacute;sa's race.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My sister&mdash;elder-born was she&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The pure and good Satyavat&iacute;,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was to the great Rich&iacute;ka wed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Still faithful to her husband dead,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She followed him, most noble dame,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, raised to heaven in human frame,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A pure celestial stream became.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Down from Him&aacute;laya's snowy height,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In floods forever fair and bright,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My sister's holy waves are hurled</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To purify and glad the world.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Now on Him&aacute;laya's side I dwell</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Because I love my sister well.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She, for her faith and truth renowned,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Most loving to her husband found,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>High-fated, firm in each pure vow,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is queen of all the rivers now.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bound by a vow I left her side</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And to the Perfect convent hied.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>There, by the aid 'twas thine to lend,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Made perfect, all my labors end.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus, mighty Prince, I now have told</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My race and lineage, high and old,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And local tales of long ago</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which thou, O R&aacute;ma, fain wouldst know.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As I have sate rehearsing thus</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The midnight hour is come on us.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Now, R&aacute;ma, sleep, that nothing may</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Our journey of to-morrow stay.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No leaf on any tree is stirred&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hushed in repose are beast and bird:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where'er you turn, on every side,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Dense shades of night the landscape hide.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The light of eve is fled: the skies,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thick-studded with their host of eyes,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Seem a star-forest overhead,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where signs and constellations spread.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Now rises, with his pure cold ray,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The moon that drives the shades away,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And with his gentle influence brings</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Joy to the hearts of living things.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Now, stealing from their lairs, appear</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The beasts to whom the night is dear.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Now spirits walk, and every power</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That revels in the midnight hour.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The mighty hermit's tale was o'er,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He closed his lips and spoke no more.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The holy men on every side,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Well done! well done,&quot; with reverence cried,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;The mighty men of Ku&#347;a's seed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Were ever famed for righteous deed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like Brahm&aacute;'s self in glory shine</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The high-souled lords of Ku&#347;a's line.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thy great name is sounded most,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>O Saint, amid the noble host.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thy dear sister&mdash;fairest she</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of streams, the high-born Kau&#347;ik&iacute;&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Diffusing virtue where she flows,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>New splendor on thy lineage throws.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus by the chief of saints addressed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The son of G&aacute;dhi turned to rest;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So, when his daily course is done,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sinks to his rest the beaming sun.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>R&aacute;ma, with Lakshman, somewhat stirred</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To marvel by the tales they heard,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Turned also to his couch, to close</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His eyelids in desired repose.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_XXXVI'></a><h3>CANTO XXXVI</h3>
+
+<h4>THE BIRTH OF GANG&Aacute;</h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hours of night now waning fast</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On &#346;ona's pleasant shore they passed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then, when the dawn began to break.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To R&aacute;ma thus the hermit spake:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;The light of dawn is breaking clear,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hour of morning rites is near.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rise, R&aacute;ma, rise, dear son, I pray,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And make thee ready for the way.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then R&aacute;ma rose, and finished all</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His duties at the hermit's call&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Prepared with joy the road to take,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thus again in question spake:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Here fair and deep the &#346;ona flows,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And many an isle its bosom shows:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What way, O Saint, will lead us o'er</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And land us on the farther shore?&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The saint replied: &quot;The way I choose</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is that which pious hermits use.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For many a league they journeyed on</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Till, when the sun of mid-day shone,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hermit-haunted flood was seen</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of J&aacute;hnav&iacute;, the Rivers' Queen.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Soon as the holy stream they viewed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thronged with a white-winged multitude</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of s&aacute;rases and swans, delight</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Possessed them at the lovely sight;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And then prepared the hermit band</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To halt upon that holy strand.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They bathed as Scripture bids, and paid</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Oblations due to God and shade.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Fire they burnt the offerings meet,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And sipped the oil, like Amrit sweet.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then pure and pleased they sate around</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Saint Vi&#347;v&aacute;mitra, on the ground.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The holy men of lesser note,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In due degree, sate more remote,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While Raghu's sons took nearer place</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By virtue of their rank and race.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then R&aacute;ma said: &quot;O Saint, I yearn</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The three-pathed Gang&aacute;'s tale to learn.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus urged, the sage recounted both</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The birth of Gang&aacute; and her growth:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;The mighty hill with metals stored,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Him&aacute;laya, is the mountains' lord,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The father of a lovely pair</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of daughters fairest of the fair&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their mother, offspring of the will</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Meru, everlasting hill,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Men&aacute;, Him&aacute;laya's darling, graced</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With beauty of her dainty waist.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gang&aacute; was elder-born:&mdash;then came</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The fair one known by Um&aacute;'s name.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then all the Gods of heaven, in need</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Gang&aacute;'s help their vows to speed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To great Him&aacute;laya came and prayed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Mountain King to yield the maid.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He, not regardless of the weal</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of the three worlds, with holy zeal</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His daughter to the Immortals gave,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gang&aacute; whose waters cleanse and save&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who roams at pleasure, fair and free,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Purging all sinners, to the sea.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The three-pathed Gang&aacute; thus obtained,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Gods their heavenly homes regained.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Long time the sister Um&aacute; passed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In vows austere and rigid fast,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And the King gave the devotee</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Immortal Rudra's bride to be&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Matching with that unequalled Lord</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His Um&aacute; through the worlds adored.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So now a glorious station fills</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each daughter of the King of Hills&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One honored as the noblest stream,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One mid the Goddesses supreme.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus Gang&aacute;, King Him&aacute;laya's child,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The heavenly river, undefiled,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rose bearing with her to the sky</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her waves that bless and purify.&quot;</span><br />
+<br />
+</div>
+<h5>[<i>Cantos XXXVII and XXXVIII are omitted.</i>]</h5>
+<br />
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_XXXIX'></a><h3>CANTO XXXIX</h3>
+
+<h4>THE SONS OF SAGAR</h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The saint in accents sweet and clear</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus told his tale for R&aacute;ma's ear&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thus anew the holy man</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A legend to the prince began:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;There reigned a pious monarch o'er</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ayodhy&aacute; in the days of yore:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sagar his name:&mdash;no child had he,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And children much he longed to see.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His honored consort, fair of face,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sprang from Vidarbha's royal race&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ke&#347;in&iacute;, famed from early youth</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For piety and love of truth.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Arishtanemi's daughter fair,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With whom no maiden might compare</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In beauty, though the earth is wide,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sumati, was his second bride.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With his two queens afar he went,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And weary days in penance spent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fervent, upon Him&aacute;laya's hill</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where springs the stream called Bhrigu's rill.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor did he fail that saint to please</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With his devout austerities,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, when a hundred years had fled,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus the most truthful Bhrigu said:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'From thee, O Sagar, blameless King,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A mighty host of sons shall spring,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thou shalt win a glorious name</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which none, O Chief, but thou shall claim.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One of thy queens a son shall bear</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Maintainer of thy race and heir;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And of the other there shall be</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sons sixty thousand born to thee.'</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus as he spake, with one accord,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To win the grace of that high lord,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The queens, with palms together laid,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In humble supplication prayed:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Which queen, O Br&aacute;hman, of the pair,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The many, or the one shall bear?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Most eager, Lord, are we to know,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And as thou sayest be it so,'</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With his sweet speech the saint replied:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Yourselves, O Queens, the choice decide.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Your own discretion freely use</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which shall the one or many choose:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One shall the race and name uphold,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The host be famous, strong, and bold.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which will have which?' Then Ke&#347;in&iacute;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The mother of one heir would be.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sumati, sister of the King</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of all the birds that ply the wing,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To that illustrious Br&aacute;hman sued</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That she might bear the multitude&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whose fame throughout the world should sound</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For mighty enterprise renowned.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Around the saint the monarch went,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bowing his head, most reverent.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then with his wives, with willing feet,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Resought his own imperial seat,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Time passed. The elder consort bare</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A son called Asamanj, the heir.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then Sumati, the younger, gave</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Birth to a gourd, O hero brave,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whose rind, when burst and cleft in two,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gave sixty thousand babes to view.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All these with care the nurses laid</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In jars of oil; and there they stayed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Till, youthful age and strength complete,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Forth speeding from each dark retreat&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All peers in valor, years, and might,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The sixty thousand came to light.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Prince Asamanj, brought up with care,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Scourge of his foes, was made the heir.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But liegemen's boys he used to cast</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Sarj&uacute;'s waves that hurried past&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Laughing the while in cruel glee</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their dying agonies to see.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This wicked prince who aye withstood</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The counsel of the wise and good,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who plagued the people in his hate,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His father banished from the state.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His son, kind-spoken, brave, and tall,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was An&#347;um&aacute;n, beloved of all.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Long years flew by. The King decreed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To slay a sacrificial steed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Consulting with his priestly band</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He vowed the rite his soul had planned,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, Veda-skilled, by their advice</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Made ready for the sacrifice.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_XL'></a><h3>CANTO XL</h3>
+
+<h4>THE CLEAVING OF THE EARTH</h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hermit ceased&mdash;the tale was done:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then in a transport Raghu's son</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Again addressed the ancient sire</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Resplendent as a burning fire:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;O holy man, I fain would hear</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The tale repeated full and clear</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How he from whom my sires descend</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Brought the great rite to happy end,&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hermit answered with a smile:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Then listen, son of Raghu, while</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My legendary tale proceeds</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To tell of high-souled Sagar's deeds.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Within the spacious plain that lies</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From where Him&aacute;laya's heights arise</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To where proud Vindhya's rival chain</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Looks down upon the subject plain&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A land the best for rites declared&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His sacrifice the king prepared.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And An&#347;um&aacute;n the prince&mdash;for so</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sagar advised&mdash;with ready bow</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was borne upon a mighty car</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To watch the steed who roamed afar.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But Indra, monarch of the skies,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Veiling his form in demon guise,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Came down upon the appointed day</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And drove the victim horse away.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Reft of the steed the priests, distressed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The master of the rite addressed:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Upon the sacred day by force</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A robber takes the victim horse.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Haste, King! now let the thief be slain;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bring thou the charger back again:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The sacred rite prevented thus</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Brings scathe and woe to all of us.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rise, Monarch, and provide with speed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That nought its happy course impede.'</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>King Sagar in his crowded court</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gave ear unto the priests' report.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He summoned straightway to his side</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His sixty thousand sons, and cried:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Brave sons of mine, I know not how</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>These demons are so mighty now&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The priests began the rite so well</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All sanctified with prayer and spell.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If in the depths of earth he hide,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or lurk beneath the ocean's tide,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Pursue, dear sons, the robber's track;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Slay him and bring the charger back.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The whole of this broad earth explore,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sea-garlanded, from shore to shore:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yea, dig her up with might and main</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Until you see the horse again.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Deep let your searching labor reach,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A league in depth dug out by each.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The robber of our horse pursue,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And please your sire who orders you.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My grandson, I, this priestly train,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Till the steed comes, will here remain.'</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their eager hearts with transport burned</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As to their task the heroes turned.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Obedient to their father, they</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Through earth's recesses forced their way.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With iron arms' unflinching toil</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each dug a league beneath the soil.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Earth, cleft asunder, groaned in pain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As emulous they plied amain&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sharp-pointed coulter, pick, and bar,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hard as the bolts of Indra are.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then loud the horrid clamor rose</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of monsters dying 'neath their blows,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Giant and demon, fiend and snake,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That in earth's core their dwelling make.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They dug, in ire that nought could stay,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Through sixty thousand leagues their way&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Cleaving the earth with matchless strength</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Till hell itself they reached at length.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus digging searched they Jambudv&iacute;p</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With all its hills and mountains steep.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then a great fear began to shake</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The heart of God, bard, fiend, and snake&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And all distressed in spirit went</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Before the Sire Omnipotent.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With signs of woe in every face</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They sought the mighty Father's grace,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And trembling still and ill at ease</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Addressed their Lord in words like these:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'The sons of Sagar, Sire benign,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Pierce the whole earth with mine on mine,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And as their ruthless work they ply</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Innumerable creatures die,'</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'This is the thief,' the princes say,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Who stole our victim steed away.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This marred the rite, and caused us ill.'</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And so their guiltless blood they spill.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_XLI'></a><h3>CANTO XLI</h3>
+
+<h4>KAPIL</h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;The Father lent a gracious ear</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And listened to their tale of fear,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And kindly to the Gods replied</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whom woe and death had terrified:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'The wisest V&aacute;sudeva, who</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Immortals' foe, fierce Madhu, slew,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Regards broad Earth with love and pride,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And guards, in Kapil's form, his bride.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His kindled wrath will quickly fall</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On the King's sons and burn them all.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This cleaving of the earth his eye</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Foresaw in ages long gone by:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He knew with prescient soul the fate</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That Sagar's children should await.'</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Three-and-thirty, freed from fear,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sought their bright homes with hopeful cheer.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Still rose the great tempestuous sound</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As Sagar's children pierced the ground.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When thus the whole broad earth was cleft,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And not a spot unsearched was left,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Back to their home the princes sped,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thus unto their father said:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'We searched the earth from side to side,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While countless hosts of creatures died.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Our conquering feet in triumph trod</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On snake and demon, fiend and God;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But yet we failed, with all our toil,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To find the robber and the spoil.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What can we more? If more we can,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Devise, O King, and tell thy plan,'</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His children's speech King Sagar heard,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And answered thus, to anger stirred:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Dig on, and ne'er your labor stay</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Till through earth's depths you force your way.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then smite the robber dead, and bring</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The charger back with triumphing.'</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The sixty thousand chiefs obeyed&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Deep through the earth their way they made.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Deep as they dug and deeper yet</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The immortal elephant they met&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Famed Vir&uacute;p&aacute;ksha vast of size,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upon whose head the broad earth lies:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The mighty beast who earth sustains</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With shaggy hills and wooded plains.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When, with the changing moon, distressed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And longing for a moment's rest,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His mighty head the monster shakes,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Earth to the bottom reels and quakes.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Around that warder strong and vast</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With reverential steps they passed&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor, when the honor due was paid,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their downward search through earth delayed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But turning from the east aside</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Southward again their task they plied.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>There Mah&aacute;padma held his place,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The best of all his mighty race&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like some huge hill, of monstrous girth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upholding on his head the earth.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When the vast beast the princes saw,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They marvelled and were filled with awe.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The sons of high-souled Sagar round</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That elephant in reverence wound.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then in the western region they</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With might unwearied cleft their way.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>There saw they with astonished eyes</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Saumanas, beast of mountain size.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Round him with circling steps they went</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With greetings kind and reverent.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On, on&mdash;no thought of rest or stay&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They reached the seat of Soma's sway.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>There saw they Bhadra, white as snow,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With lucky marks that fortune show,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bearing the earth upon his head.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Round him they paced with solemn tread,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And honored him with greetings kind;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then downward yet their way they mined.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They gained the tract 'twixt east and north</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whose fame is ever blazoned forth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And by a storm of rage impelled,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Digging through earth their course they held.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then all the princes, lofty-souled,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of wondrous vigor, strong and bold,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Saw V&aacute;sudeva standing there</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In Kapil's form he loved to wear,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And near the everlasting God</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The victim charger cropped the sod.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They saw with joy and eager eyes</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The fancied robber and the prize,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And on him rushed the furious band</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Crying aloud, 'Stand, villain! stand!'</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Avaunt! avaunt!' great Kapil cried,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His bosom flushed with passion's tide;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then by his might that proud array</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All scorched to heaps of ashes lay.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_XLII'></a><h3>CANTO XLII</h3>
+
+<h4>SAGAR'S SACRIFICE</h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then to the prince his grandson, bright</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With his own fame's unborrowed light,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>King Sagar thus began to say,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Marvelling at his sons' delay:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Thou art a warrior skilled and bold,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Match for the mighty men of old.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Now follow on thine uncles' course</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And track the robber of the horse.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To guard thee take thy sword and bow,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For huge and strong are beasts below.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>There to the reverend reverence pay,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And kill the foes who check thy way;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then turn successful home and see</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My sacrifice complete through thee.'</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Obedient to the high-souled lord</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Grasped An&#347;um&aacute;n his bow and sword,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And hurried forth the way to trace</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With youth and valor's eager pace.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On sped he by the path he found</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Dug by his uncles underground.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The warder elephant he saw</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whose size and strength pass Nature's law&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who bears the world's tremendous weight,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whom God, fiend, giant, venerate.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bird, serpent, and each flitting shade,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To him the honor meet he paid&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With circling steps and greeting due,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And further prayed him, if he knew,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To tell him of his uncles' weal,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And who had dared the horse to steal.</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To him in war and council tried</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The warder elephant replied:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Thou, son of Asamanj, shalt lead</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In triumph back the rescued steed,'</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As to each warder beast he came</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And questioned all, his words the same,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The honored youth with gentle speech</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Drew eloquent reply from each&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That fortune should his steps attend,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And with the horse he home should wend.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Cheered with the grateful answer, he</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Passed on with step more light and free,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And reached with careless heart the place</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where lay in ashes Sagar's race.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then sank the spirit of the chief</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Beneath that shock of sudden grief&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And with a bitter cry of woe</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He mourned his kinsmen fallen so.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He saw, weighed down by woe and care,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The victim charger roaming there.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yet would the pious chieftain fain</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Oblations offer to the slain:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But, needing water for the rite,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He looked and there was none in sight.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His quick eye searching all around</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The uncle of his kinsmen found&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>King Garud, best beyond compare</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of birds who wing the fields of air.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then thus unto the weeping man</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The son of Vinat&aacute; began:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Grieve not, O hero, for their fall</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who died a death approved of all.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of mighty strength, they met their fate</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By Kapil's hand whom none can mate.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Pour forth for them no earthly wave,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A holier flood their spirits crave.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If, daughter of the Lord of Snow,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gang&aacute; would turn her stream below,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her waves that cleanse all mortal stain</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Would wash their ashes pure again.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yea, when her flood whom all revere</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rolls o'er the dust that moulders here,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The sixty thousand, freed from sin,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A home in Indra's heaven shall win.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Go, and with ceaseless labor try</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To draw the Goddess from the sky.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Return, and with thee take the steed;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So shall thy grandsire's rite succeed,'</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Prince An&#347;um&aacute;n the strong and brave</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Followed the rede Suparna gave.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The glorious hero took the horse,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And homeward quickly bent his course.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Straight to the anxious King he hied,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whom lustral rites had purified&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The mournful story to unfold</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And all the King of birds had told.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The tale of woe the monarch heard,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No longer was the rite deferred:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With care and just observance he</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Accomplished all, as texts decree.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The rites performed, with brighter fame,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Mighty in counsel, home he came.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He longed to bring the river down,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But found no plan his wish to crown.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He pondered long with anxious thought,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But saw no way to what he sought.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus thirty thousand years he spent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And then to heaven the monarch went.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='CANTO_XLIII'></a><h3>CANTO XLIII</h3>
+
+<h4>BHAG&Iacute;RATH</h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;When Sagar thus had bowed to fate,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The lords and commons of the state</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Approved with ready heart and will</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Prince An&#347;um&aacute;n his throne to fill.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He ruled, a mighty king, unblamed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sire of Dil&iacute;pa justly famed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To him, his child and worthy heir,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The King resigned his kingdom's care,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And on Him&aacute;laya's pleasant side</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His task austere of penance plied.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bright as a God in clear renown</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He planned to bring pure Gang&aacute; down.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>There on his fruitless hope intent</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Twice sixteen thousand years he spent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And in the grove of hermits stayed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Till bliss in heaven his rites repaid.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Dil&iacute;pa then, the good and great,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Soon as he learnt his kinsmen's fate,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bowed down by woe, with troubled mind.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Pondering long no cure could find.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'How can I bring,' the mourner sighed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'To cleanse their dust, the heavenly tide?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How can I give them rest, and save</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their spirits with the offered wave?'</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Long with this thought his bosom skilled</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In holy discipline was filled.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A son was born, Bhag&iacute;rath named,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Above all men for virtue famed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Dil&iacute;pa many a rite ordained,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thirty thousand seasons reigned.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But when no hope the king could see</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His kinsmen from their woe to free,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The lord of men, by sickness tried,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Obeyed the law of fate, and died;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He left the kingdom to his son,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And gained the heaven his deeds had won.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The good Bhag&iacute;rath, royal sage,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Had no fair son to cheer his age.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He, great in glory, pure in will,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Longing for sons was childless still.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then on one wish, one thought intent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Planning the heavenly stream's descent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Leaving his ministers the care</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And burden of his state to bear&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Dwelling in far Gokarna he</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Engaged in long austerity.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With senses checked, with arms upraised,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Five fires around and o'er him blazed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each weary month the hermit passed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Breaking but once his awful fast.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In winter's chill the brook his bed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In rain, the clouds to screen his head.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thousands of years he thus endured</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Till Brahm&aacute;'s favor was assured&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And the high Lord of living things</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Looked kindly on his sufferings.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With trooping Gods the Sire came near</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The King who plied his task austere:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Blest Monarch, of a glorious race,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy fervent rites have won my grace.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Well hast thou wrought thine awful task,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Some boon in turn, O Hermit, ask.'</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bhag&iacute;rath, rich in glory's light,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hero with the arm of might,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus to the Lord of earth and sky</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Raised suppliant hands and made reply:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'If the great God his favor deigns,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And my long toil its fruit obtains,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Let Sagar's sons receive from me</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Libations that they long to see.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Let Gang&aacute; with her holy wave</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The ashes of the heroes lave&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That so my kinsmen may ascend</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To heavenly bliss that ne'er shall end.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And give, I pray, O God, a son,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor let my house be all undone.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sire of the worlds! be this the grace</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bestowed upon Ikshv&aacute;ku's race,'</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Sire, when thus the King had prayed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In sweet kind words his answer made:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'High, high thy thought and wishes are,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bhag&iacute;rath of the mighty car!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ikshv&aacute;ku's line is blest in thee,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And as thou prayest it shall be.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gang&aacute;, whose waves in Swarga flow,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is daughter of the Lord of Snow.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Win &#346;iva that his aid be lent</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To hold her in her mid-descent&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For earth alone will never bear</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Those torrents hurled from upper air;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And none may hold her weight but He,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Trident-wielding deity,'</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus having said, the Lord supreme</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Addressed him to the heavenly stream;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And then with Gods and Maruts went</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To heaven, above the firmament.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 45%;' />
+<a name='AKOONTALA'></a><h2>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;</h2>
+
+<h4>BY</h4>
+
+<h3>K&Aacute;LID&Aacute;SA</h3>
+
+<br />
+
+<h4>[<i>Translation by Sir Monier Monier-Williams</i>]</h4>
+<br />
+
+<a name='S_INTRODUCTION'></a><h3>INTRODUCTION</h3>
+<br />
+
+<p>The drama is always the latest development of a national poetry&mdash;for the
+origin of poetry is in the religious rite, where the hymn or the ode is
+used to celebrate the glories of some divinity, or some hero who has
+been received into the circle of the gods. This at least is the case in
+Sanscrit as in Greek literature, where the hymn and ballad precede the
+epic. The epic poem becomes the stable form of poetry during the middle
+period in the history of literature, both in India and Greece. The union
+of the lyric and the epic produces the drama. The speeches uttered by
+the heroes in such poems as the &quot;Iliad&quot; are put into the mouths of real
+personages who appear in sight of the audience and represent with
+fitting gestures and costumes the characters of the story. The dialogue
+is interspersed with songs or odes, which reach their perfection in the
+choruses of Sophocles.</p>
+
+<p>The drama is undoubtedly the most intellectual, as it is the most
+artificial, form of poetry. The construction of the plot, and the
+arrangement of the action, give room for the most thoughtful and
+deliberate display of genius. In this respect the Greek drama stands
+forth as most philosophically perfect. The drama, moreover, has always
+been by far the most popular form of poetry; because it aids, as much as
+possible, the imagination of the auditor, and for distinctness and
+clearness of impression stands pre&euml;minent above both the epic narrative
+and the emotional description of the lyric.</p>
+
+<p>The drama in India appears to have been a perfectly indigenous creation,
+although it was of very late development, and could not have appeared
+even so early as the Alexandrian pastorals which marked the last phase
+of Greek poetry. When it did appear, it never took the perfect form of
+the drama at Athens. It certainly borrowed as little from Greece as it
+did from China or Japan, and the Persians and Arabians do not appear to
+have produced any dramatic masterpieces. The greatest of dramatists in
+the Sanscrit language is undoubtedly K&aacute;lid&aacute;sa, whose date is placed, by
+different scholars, anywhere from the first to the fifth century of our
+era. His masterpiece, and indeed the masterpiece of the Indian drama, is
+the &quot;&#346;akoontal&aacute;,&quot; which has all the graces as well as most of the faults
+of Oriental poetry. There can be no doubt that to most Europeans the
+charm of it lies in the exquisite description of natural scenery and of
+that atmosphere of piety and religious calm&mdash;almost mediaeval in its
+austere beauty and serenity&mdash;which invests the hermit life of India. The
+abode of the ascetics is depicted with a pathetic grace that we only
+find paralleled in the &quot;Admetus&quot; of Euripides. But at the same time the
+construction of the drama is more like such a play as Milton's &quot;Comus,&quot;
+than the closely-knit, symmetrical, and inevitable progress of such a
+work of consummate skill as the &quot;King Oedipus&quot; of Sophocles. Emotion,
+and generally the emotion of love, is the motive in the &quot;&#346;akoontal&aacute;&quot; of
+K&aacute;lid&aacute;sa, and different phases of feeling, rather than the struggles of
+energetic action, lead on to the <i>d&eacute;nouement</i> of the play. The
+introduction of supernatural agencies controlling the life of the
+personages, leaves very little room for the development and description
+of human character. As the fate of the hero is dependent altogether upon
+the caprice of superhuman powers, the moral elements of a drama are but
+faintly discernible. Thus the central action of &#346;akoontal&aacute; hinges on the
+fact that the heroine, absorbed in thoughts of love, neglects to welcome
+with due respect the great saint Durvasas&mdash;certainly a trifling and
+venial fault&mdash;but he is represented as blighting her with a curse which
+results in all the unhappiness of the drama, and which is only ended at
+last by the intervention of a more powerful being. By this principle of
+construction the characters are reduced to mere shadow creations:
+beautiful as arabesques, delicate as a piece of ivory carving, tinted
+like the flat profiles of an Oriental fan or the pattern of a porcelain
+vase, but deficient in robustness and vigorous coloring. Humanity is
+absolutely dwarfed and its powers rendered inoperative by the crowd of
+supernatural creatures that control its destiny. Even in the &quot;Tempest&quot;
+of Shakespeare, in which the supernatural plays a greater part than in
+any other English drama, the strength and nobility of human character
+are allowed full play&mdash;and man in his fortitude, in his intellect and
+will, even more than in his emotions, keeps full possession of the
+stage, and imparts a reality to every scene which makes the wildest
+flight of fancy bear a real relation to the common experiences of human
+life.</p>
+
+<p>The &quot;&#346;akoontal&aacute;&quot; is divided into seven acts, and is a mixture of prose
+and verse;&mdash;each character rising in the intensity of emotional
+utterance into bursts of lyric poetry. The first act introduces the King
+of India, Dushyanta, armed with bow and arrows, in a chariot with his
+driver. They are passing through a forest in pursuit of a black
+antelope, which they fail to overtake before the voice of some hermit
+forbids them to slay the creature as it belongs to the hermitage. The
+king piously desists and reaches the hermitage of the great saint Kanwa,
+who has left his companions in charge of his foster-daughter,
+&#346;akoontal&aacute;, while he is bound on a pilgrimage. Following these hermits
+the king finds himself within the precincts of a sacred grove, where
+rice is strewn on the ground to feed the parrots that nest in the hollow
+trunks, and where the unterrified antelopes do not start at the human
+voice. The king stops his chariot and alights, so as not to disturb the
+dwellers in the holy wood. He feels a sudden throb in his right arm,
+which augurs happy love, and sees hermit maidens approaching to sprinkle
+the young shrubs, with watering-pots suited to their strength. The forms
+of these hermit maidens eclipse those found in queenly halls, as the
+luxuriance of forest vines excels the trim vineyards of cultivation.
+Amongst these maidens the king, concealed by the trees, observes
+&#346;akoontal&aacute;, dressed in the bark garment of a hermit&mdash;like a blooming bud
+enclosed within a sheath of yellow leaves. When she stands by the
+<i>ke&#347;ara</i>-tree, the king is impressed by her beauty, and regrets that she
+is, if of a purely Br&aacute;hmanic origin, forbidden to marry one of the
+warrior class, even though he be a king. A very pretty description is
+given of the pursuit of &#346;akoontal&aacute; by a bee which her sprinkling has
+startled from a jasmine flower. From this bee she is rescued by the
+king, and is dismayed to find that the sight of the stranger affects her
+with an emotion unsuited to the holy grove. She hurries off with her two
+companions, but as she goes she declares that a prickly <i>kusa</i>-grass has
+stung her foot; a <i>kuruvaka</i>-bush has caught her garment, and while her
+companions disentangle it, she takes a long look at the king, who
+confesses that he cannot turn his mind from &#346;akoontal&aacute;. This is the
+opening episode of their love.</p>
+
+<p>The second act introduces the king's jester, a Br&aacute;hman on confidential
+terms with his master, who, while Dushyanta is thinking of love, is
+longing to get back to the city. He is tired of the hot jungle, the
+nauseating water of bitter mountain streams, the racket of fowlers at
+early dawn, and the eternal galloping, by which his joints are bruised.
+The king is equally tired of hunting, and confesses that he cannot bend
+his bow against those fawns which dwell near &#346;akoontal&aacute;'s abode, and
+have taught their tender glance to her. He calls back the beaters sent
+out to surround the forest, takes off his hunting-suit, and talks to the
+jester about the charms of &#346;akoontal&aacute;&mdash;whom the Creator, he says, has
+formed by gathering in his mind all lovely shapes, so as to make a
+peerless woman-gem. He recalls the glance which she shot at him as she
+cried, &quot;a <i>kusha-grass</i> has stung my foot.&quot; Meanwhile two hermits
+approach him with the news that the demons have taken advantage of
+Kanwa's absence to disturb the sacrifices. They request him to take up
+his abode in the grove for a few days, in order to vanquish the enemies.
+A messenger arrives to tell him that his mother, in four days, will be
+offering a solemn sacrifice for her son's welfare, and invites his
+presence at the rite. But he cannot leave &#346;akoontal&aacute;, and sends the
+jester M&aacute;thavya in his stead, telling him to say nothing about his love
+for &#346;akoontal&aacute;.</p>
+
+<p>In the third act the love of the king and the hermit girl reaches its
+climax. The king is found walking in the hermitage, invoking the God of
+Love, whose shafts are flowers, though the flowery darts are hard as
+steel. &quot;Mighty God of Love, hast Thou no pity on me?&quot; What better
+relief, he asks, than the sight of my beloved? He traces &#346;akoontal&aacute;, by
+the broken tubes which bore the blossoms she had culled, to the arbor,
+enclosed by the plantation of canes, and shaded by vines, at whose
+entrance he observes in the sand the track of recent footsteps. Peering
+through the branches, he perceives her reclining on a stone seat strewn
+with flowers. Her two companions are with her, and she is sick unto
+death. The king notices that her cheeks are wasted, her breasts less
+swelling, her slender waist more slender, her roseate hue has grown
+pale, and she seems like some poor <i>madhave</i> creeper touched by winds
+that have scorched its leaves. Her companions anxiously inquire the
+cause of her sickness, and, after much hesitation, she reveals her love
+by inscribing a poem, with her fingernail, on a lotus leaf smooth as a
+parrot's breast. The king hears the avowal of her love, rushes in to
+her, and declares his passion: adding that daughters of a royal saint
+have often been wedded by <i>Gandharva</i> rites, without ceremonies or
+parental consent, yet have not forfeited the father's blessing. He thus
+overcomes her scruples. Gautam&iacute;, the matron of the hermitage, afterwards
+enters, and asks, &quot;My child, is your fever allayed?&quot; &quot;Venerable mother,&quot;
+is the reply, &quot;I feel a grateful change.&quot; As the king sits in solitude
+that evening in the deserted arbor, he hears a voice outside, uttering
+the verses&mdash;&quot;The evening rites have begun; but, dark as the clouds of
+night, the demons are swarming round the altar fires.&quot; With these words
+of ill-omen the third act comes to an end.</p>
+
+<p>The fourth act describes the fulfilment of this evil omen. The king has
+now returned to the city, and has given &#346;akoontal&aacute; a signet ring, with
+an inscription on it, pronouncing that after there have elapsed as many
+days as there are letters in this inscription he will return. As the two
+maiden companions of &#346;akoontal&aacute; are culling flowers in the garden of the
+hermitage, they hear a voice exclaiming, &quot;It is I! give heed!&quot; This is
+the great Durvasas, whom &#346;akoontal&aacute;, lost in thoughts of her absent
+husband, has neglected at once to go forth to welcome. The voice from
+behind the scenes is soon after heard uttering a curse&mdash;&quot;Woe unto her
+who is thus neglectful of a guest,&quot; and declaring that Dushyanta, of
+whom alone she is thinking, regardless of the presence of a pious saint,
+shall forget her in spite of all his love, as the wine-bibber forgets
+his delirium. The Hindoo saint is here described in all his arrogance
+and cruelty. One of the maidens says that he who had uttered the curse
+is now retiring with great strides, quivering with rage&mdash;for his wrath
+is like a consuming fire. A pretty picture is given of &#346;akoontal&aacute;, who
+carries on her finger the signet ring, which has the virtue of restoring
+the king's love, if ever he should forget her. &quot;There sits our beloved
+friend,&quot; cries one of the maidens: &quot;motionless as a picture; her cheek
+supported by her left hand, so absorbed in thoughts of her absent lover
+that she is unconscious of her own self&mdash;how much more of a passing
+stranger?&quot;</p>
+
+<p>In the fourth act there is an exquisite description of the return of
+Kanwa from his pilgrimage, and the preparations for the start of
+&#346;akoontal&aacute; for her husband's palace, in the city. The delicate pathos of
+the scene is worthy of Euripides. &quot;Alas! Alas!&quot; exclaim the two maidens,
+&quot;Now &#346;akoontal&aacute; has disappeared behind the trees of the forest. Tell us,
+master, how shall we enter again the sacred grove made desolate by her
+departure?&quot; But the holy calm, broken for a moment by the excitement of
+his child's departure, is soon restored to Kanwa's mind. &quot;Now that my
+child is dismissed to her husband's home, tranquillity regains my soul.&quot;
+The closing reflection is worthy of a Greek dramatist: &quot;Our maids we
+rear for the happiness of others; and now that I have sent her to her
+husband I feel the satisfaction that comes from restoring a trust.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>In the fifth act, the scene is laid in Dushyanta's palace, where the
+king is living, under the curse of Durvasas, in complete oblivion of
+&#346;akoontal&aacute;. The life of the court is happily suggested, with its
+intrigues and its business. The king has yet a vague impression of
+restlessness, which, on hearing a song sung behind the scenes, prompts
+him to say, &quot;Why has this strain flung over me so deep a melancholy, as
+though I was separated from some loved one; can this be the faint
+remembrance of affections in some previous existence?&quot; It is here that
+the hermits, with Gautam&iacute;, arrive, bringing &#346;akoontal&aacute;, soon to be made
+a mother, into the presence of the king; but she has been utterly
+forgotten by him. He angrily denies his marriage; and when she proposes
+to bring forth the ring, she finds she has lost it from her finger. &quot;It
+must have slipped off,&quot; suggested Gautam&iacute;, &quot;when thou wast offering
+homage to &#346;ach&iacute;'s holy lake.&quot; The king smiles derisively. &#346;akoontal&aacute;
+tries to quicken his memory:&mdash;&quot;Do you remember how, in the jasmine
+bower, you poured water from the lotus cup into the hollow of my hand?
+Do you remember how you said to my little fawn, Drink first, but she
+shrunk from you&mdash;and drank water from my hand, and you said, with a
+smile, 'Like trusts Like,' for you are two sisters in the same grove.&quot;
+The king calls her words &quot;honeyed falsehoods.&quot; &#346;akoontal&aacute; buries her
+face in her mantle and bursts into tears.</p>
+
+<p>The tenderness of this scene, its grace and delicacy, are quite idyllic,
+and worthy of the best ages of the pastoral drama. The ring is at
+length restored to Dushyanta, having been found by a fisherman in the
+belly of a carp. On its being restored to the king's finger, he is
+overcome with a flood of recollection: he gives himself over to mourning
+and forbids the celebration of the Spring festival. He admits that his
+palsied heart had been slumbering, and that, now it is roused by
+memories of his fawn-eyed love, he only wakes to agonies of remorse.
+Meanwhile &#346;akoontal&aacute; had been carried away like a celestial nymph to the
+sacred grove of Ka&#347;yapa, far removed from earth in the upper air. The
+king, being summoned by Indra to destroy the brood of giants,
+descendants of Kalamemi, the monster of a hundred arms and heads,
+reaches in the celestial car Indra, the grove where dwell his wife and
+child, an heroic boy whom the hermits call Sarva-damana&mdash;the all-tamer.
+The recognition and reconciliation of husband and wife are delineated
+with the most delicate skill, and the play concludes with a prayer to
+Shiva.</p>
+
+<p>E.W.</p>
+
+<a name='DRAMATIS_PERSONAE'></a><h4>DRAMATIS PERSON&AElig;</h4>
+
+<p>DUSHYANTA, King of India.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA, the Jester, friend and companion of the King.</p>
+
+<p>KANWA, chief of the Hermits, foster-father of &#346;akoontal&aacute;.</p>
+
+<p>S&Aacute;RNGARAVA, S&Aacute;RADWATA, two Br&aacute;hmans, belonging to the hermitage of
+Kanwa.</p>
+
+<p>MITR&Aacute;VASU, brother-in-law of the King, and Superintendent of the city
+police.</p>
+
+<p>J&Aacute;NUKA, S&Uacute;CHAKA, two constables.</p>
+
+<p>V&Aacute;T&Aacute;YANA, the Chamberlain or attendant on the women's apartments.</p>
+
+<p>SOMAR&Aacute;TA, the domestic Priest.</p>
+
+<p>KARABHAKA, a messenger of the Queen-mother.</p>
+
+<p>RAIVATAKA, the warder or door-keeper.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;TALI, charioteer of Indra.</p>
+
+<p>SARVA-DAMANA, afterwards Bharata, a little boy, son of Dushyanta by
+&#346;akoontal&aacute;.</p>
+
+<p>KA&#346;YAPA, a divine sage, progenitor of men and gods, son of Mar&iacute;chi and
+grandson of Brahm&aacute;.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;, daughter of the sage Vi&#347;w&aacute;mitra and the nymph Menak&aacute;,
+foster-child of the hermit Kanwa.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; and ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;, female attendants, companions of &#346;akoontal&aacute;.</p>
+
+<p>GAUTAM&Iacute;, a holy matron, Superior of the female inhabitants of the
+hermitage.</p>
+
+<p>VASUMAT&Iacute;, the Queen of Dushyanta.</p>
+
+<p>S&Aacute;NUMAT&Iacute;, a nymph, friend of &#346;akoontal&aacute;.</p>
+
+<p>TARALIK&Aacute;, personal attendant of the King.</p>
+
+<p>CHATURIK&Aacute;, personal attendant of the Queen.</p>
+
+<p>VETRAVAT&Iacute;, female warder, or door-keeper.</p>
+
+<p>PARABARITIK&Aacute; and MADHUKARIK&Aacute;, maidens in charge of the royal gardens.</p>
+
+<p>SUVRAT&Aacute;, a nurse.</p>
+
+<p>ADITI, wife of Ka&#347;yapa; grand-daughter of Brahm&aacute;, through her father,
+Daksha.</p>
+
+<p>Charioteer, Fisherman, Officers, and Hermits.</p>
+<br />
+
+<a name='RULES_FOR_PRONUNCIATION_OF_PROPER_NAMES'></a><h4>RULES FOR PRONUNCIATION OF PROPER NAMES</h4>
+
+<p>Observe, that in order to secure the correct pronunciation of the title
+of this Drama, &quot;&#346;akuntal&aacute;&quot; has been spelt &quot;&#346;a-koontal&aacute;,&quot; the <i>u</i> being
+pronounced like the <i>u</i> in the English word <i>rule</i>.</p>
+
+<p>The vowel <i>a</i> must invariably be pronounced with a dull sound, like the
+<i>a</i> in <i>organ</i>, or the <i>u</i> in <i>fun, sun. Dushyanta</i> must therefore be
+pronounced as if written <i>Dooshyunta</i>. The long vowel <i>a</i> is pronounced
+like the <i>a</i> in <i>last, cart; i</i> like the <i>i</i> in <i>pin, sin</i>; <i>&iacute;</i> like the
+<i>i</i> in <i>marine; e</i> like the <i>e</i> in <i>prey; o</i> like the <i>o</i> in <i>so; ai</i>
+like the <i>ai</i> in <i>aisle; au</i> like <i>au</i> in the German word <i>baum</i>, or
+like the <i>ou</i> in <i>our</i>.</p>
+
+<p>The consonants are generally pronounced as in English, but <i>g</i> has
+always the sound of <i>g</i> in <i>gun, give</i>, never of <i>g</i> in <i>gin. S</i> with
+the accent over it (&#347;) has the sound of <i>s</i> in <i>sure</i>, or of the last
+<i>s</i> in <i>session</i>.</p>
+
+<br />
+
+<h2>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;</h2>
+
+<a name='PROLOGUE'></a><h3>PROLOGUE</h3>
+
+<h4>Benediction</h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I&#347;a preserve you! he who is revealed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In these eight forms by man perceptible&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Water, of all creation's works the first;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The fire that bears on high the sacrifice</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Presented with solemnity to heaven;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Priest, the holy offerer of gifts;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Sun and Moon, those two majestic orbs,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Eternal marshallers of day and night;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The subtle Ether, vehicle of sound,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Diffused throughout the boundless universe;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Earth, by sages called &quot;The place of birth</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of all material essences and things&quot;;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Air, which giveth life to all that breathe.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>STAGE-MANAGER [<i>after the recitation of the benediction, looking towards
+the tiring-room.</i>]&mdash;Lady, when you have finished attiring yourself, come
+this way.</p>
+
+<p>ACTRESS [<i>entering.</i>]&mdash;Here I am, Sir; what are your commands?</p>
+
+<p>STAGE-MANAGER.&mdash;We are here before the eyes of an audience of educated
+and discerning men; and have to represent in their presence a new drama
+composed by K&aacute;lid&aacute;sa, called &quot;&#346;akoontal&aacute;, or the Lost Ring.&quot; Let the
+whole company exert themselves to do justice to their several parts.</p>
+
+<p>ACTRESS,&mdash;You, Sir, have so judiciously managed the cast of the
+characters, that nothing will be defective in the acting.</p>
+
+STAGE-MANAGER.&mdash;Lady, I will tell you the exact state of the case.<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No skill in acting can I deem complete,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Till from the wise the actor gain applause:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Know that the heart e'en of the truly skilful,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shrinks from too boastful confidence in self.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>ACTRESS [<i>modestly</i>].&mdash;You judge correctly. And now, what are your
+commands?</p>
+
+<p>STAGE-MANAGER.&mdash;What can you do better than engage the attention of the
+audience by some captivating melody?</p>
+
+<p>ACTRESS.&mdash;Which among the seasons shall I select as the subject of my
+song?</p>
+
+<p>STAGE-MANAGER.&mdash;You surely ought to give the preference to the present
+Summer season that has but recently commenced, a season so rich in
+enjoyment. For now
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unceasing are the charms of halcyon days,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When the cool bath exhilarates the frame;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When sylvan gales are laden with the scent</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of fragrant P&aacute;talas; when soothing sleep</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Creeps softly on beneath the deepening shade;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And when, at last, the dulcet calm of eve</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Entrancing steals o'er every yielding sense.</span><br />
+</div>
+<br />
+
+ACTRESS.&mdash;I will. <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Sings.</i></span><br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fond maids, the chosen of their hearts to please,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Entwine their ears with sweet &#346;ir&iacute;sha flowers,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whose fragrant lips attract the kiss of bees</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>That softly murmur through the summer hours.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>STAGE-MANAGER.&mdash;Charmingly sung! The audience are motionless as statues,
+their souls riveted by the enchanting strain. What subject shall we
+select for representation, that we may insure a continuance of their
+favor?</p>
+
+<p>ACTRESS.&mdash;Why not the same, Sir, announced by you at first? Let the
+drama called &quot;&#346;akoontal&aacute;, or the Lost Ring,&quot; be the subject of our
+dramatic performance.</p>
+
+STAGE-MANAGER.&mdash;Rightly reminded! For the moment I had forgotten it.<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Your song's transporting melody decoyed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My thoughts, and rapt with ecstasy my soul;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As now the bounding antelope allures</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The King Dushyanta on the chase intent. </span><span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exeunt.</i></span><br />
+</div>
+
+<br />
+<hr style='width: 65%;' />
+<a name='ACT_FIRST'></a><h3>ACT FIRST</h3>
+
+<h4>Scene.&mdash;A Forest</h4>
+<br />
+
+<p><i>Enter King Dushyanta, armed with a bow and arrow, in a chariot, chasing
+an antelope, attended by his Charioteer</i>.</p>
+
+<p>CHARIOTEER [<i>looking at the deer, and then at the King</i>].&mdash;
+Great Prince,<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When on the antelope I bend my gaze,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And on your Majesty, whose mighty bow</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Has its string firmly braced; before my eyes</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The god that wields the trident seems revealed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Chasing the deer that flies from him in vain.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Charioteer, this fleet antelope has drawn us far from my
+attendants. See! there he runs:&mdash;</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Aye and anon his graceful neck he bends</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To cast a glance at the pursuing car;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And dreading now the swift-descending shaft,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Contracts into itself his slender frame:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>About his path, in scattered fragments strewn,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The half-chewed grass falls from his panting mouth;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>See! in his airy bounds he seems to fly,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And leaves no trace upon th'elastic turf.</span><br />
+
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>With astonishment</i>.</span>
+</div>
+<p>How now! swift as is our pursuit, I scarce can see him.</p>
+
+<p>CHARIOTEER.&mdash;Sire, the ground here is full of hollows; I have therefore
+drawn in the reins and checked the speed of the chariot. Hence the deer
+has somewhat gained upon us. Now that we are passing over level ground,
+we shall have no difficulty in overtaking him.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Loosen the reins, then.</p>
+
+<p>CHARIOTEER.&mdash;The King is obeyed. [<i>Drives the chariot at full speed</i>.]
+Great Prince, see! see!<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Responsive to the slackened rein, the steeds</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Chafing with eager rivalry, career</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With emulative fleetness o'er the plain;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their necks outstretched, their waving plumes, that late</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fluttered above their brows, are motionless;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their sprightly ears, but now erect, bent low;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Themselves unsullied by the circling dust,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That vainly follows on their rapid course.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>KING [<i>joyously</i>].&mdash;In good sooth, the horses seem as if they would
+outstrip the steeds of Indra and the Sun.<a name="FNanchor33"></a><a href="#Footnote_33"><sup>[33]</sup></a><br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That which but now showed to my view minute</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Quickly assumes dimension; that which seemed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A moment since disjoined in diverse parts,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Looks suddenly like one compacted whole;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That which is really crooked in its shape</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In the far distance left, grows regular;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wondrous the chariot's speed, that in a breath,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Makes the near distant and the distant near.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>Now, Charioteer, see me kill the deer.</p> <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Takes aim</i>.</span>
+
+<p>A VOICE [<i>behind the scenes</i>].&mdash;Hold, O King! this deer belongs to our
+hermitage. Kill it not! kill it not!</p>
+
+<p>CHARIOTEER [<i>listening and looking</i>].&mdash;Great King, some hermits have
+stationed themselves so as to screen the antelope at the very moment of
+its coming within range of your arrow.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>hastily</i>].&mdash;Then stop the horses.</p>
+
+<p>CHARIOTEER.&mdash;I obey.<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Stops the chariot</i>.</span> </p>
+
+<p style='text-align: center'><i>Enter a Hermit, and two others with him</i>.</p>
+
+<p>HERMIT [<i>raising his hand</i>].&mdash;This deer, O King, belongs to our
+hermitage. Kill it not! kill it not!<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Now heaven forbid this barb&egrave;d shaft descend</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upon the fragile body of a fawn,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like fire upon a heap of tender flowers!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Can thy steel bolts no meeter quarry find</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Than the warm life-blood of a harmless deer?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Restore, great Prince, thy weapon to its quiver;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>More it becomes thy arms to shield the weak,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Than to bring anguish on the innocent.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>KING.&mdash;'Tis done. <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Replaces the arrow in its quiver</i>.<br /></span></p>
+
+HERMIT.&mdash;Worthy is this action of a Prince, the light of Puru's race.<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Well does this act befit a Prince like thee,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Right worthy is it of thine ancestry.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy guerdon be a son of peerless worth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whose wide dominion shall embrace the earth.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>BOTH THE OTHER HERMITS [<i>raising their hands</i>].&mdash;May heaven indeed grant
+thee a son, a sovereign of the earth from sea to sea!</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>bowing.</i>]&mdash;I accept with gratitude a Br&aacute;hman's benediction.</p>
+
+<p>HERMIT.&mdash;We came hither, mighty Prince, to collect sacrificial wood.
+Here on the banks of the M&aacute;lin&iacute; you may perceive the hermitage of the
+great sage Kanwa. If other duties require not your presence, deign to
+enter and accept our hospitality.<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When you behold our penitential rites</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Performed without impediment by Saints</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rich only in devotion, then with pride</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Will you reflect, Such are the holy men</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who call me Guardian; such the men for whom</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To wield the bow I bare my nervous arm,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Scarred by the motion of the glancing string.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Is the Chief of your Society now at home?</p>
+
+<p>HERMIT.&mdash;No; he has gone to Soma-t&iacute;rtha to propitiate Destiny, which
+threatens his daughter &#346;akoontal&aacute; with some calamity; but he has
+commissioned her in his absence to entertain all guests with
+hospitality.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Good! I will pay her a visit. She will make me acquainted with
+the mighty sage's acts of penance and devotion.</p>
+
+HERMIT.&mdash;And we will depart on our errand.<br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exit with his companions</i>.</span><br />
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Charioteer, urge on the horses. We will at least purify our souls
+by a sight of this hallowed retreat.</p>
+
+CHARIOTEER.&mdash;Your Majesty is obeyed.<br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Drives the chariot with great velocity</i>.</span><br />
+
+<p>KING [<i>looking all about him</i>].&mdash;Charioteer, even without being told, I
+should have known that these were the precincts of a grove consecrated
+to penitential rites.</p>
+
+<p>CHARIOTEER.&mdash;How so?</p>
+
+KING.&mdash;Do not you observe?<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Beneath the trees, whose hollow trunks afford</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Secure retreat to many a nestling brood</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of parrots, scattered grains of rice lie strewn.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lo! here and there are seen the polished slabs</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That serve to bruise the fruit of Ingud&iacute;.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The gentle roe-deer, taught to trust in man,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unstartled hear our voices. On the paths</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Appear the traces of bark-woven vests</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Borne dripping from the limpid fount of waters.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And mark! Laved are the roots of trees by deep canals,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whose glassy waters tremble in the breeze;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The sprouting verdure of the leaves is dimmed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By dusky wreaths of upward curling smoke</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From burnt oblations; and on new-mown lawns</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Around our car graze leisurely the fawns.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>CHARIOTEER.&mdash;I observe it all.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>advancing a little further</i>].&mdash;The inhabitants of this sacred
+retreat must not be disturbed. Stay the chariot, that I may alight.</p>
+
+<p>CHARIOTEER.&mdash;The reins are held in. Your Majesty may descend.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>alighting</i>].&mdash;Charioteer, groves devoted to penance must be
+entered in humble attire. Take these ornaments.
+[<i>Delivers his ornaments and bow to the Charioteer</i>.]
+Charioteer, see that the horses are watered, and attend to them until I
+return from visiting the inhabitants of the hermitage.</p>
+
+<p>CHARIOTEER.&mdash;I will.          <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exit</i>.</span></p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>walking and looking about</i>].&mdash;Here is the entrance to the
+hermitage. I will now go in.<br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Entering he feels a throbbing sensation in his arm</i></span>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Serenest peace is in this calm retreat,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By passion's breath unruffled; what portends</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My throbbing arm? Why should it whisper here</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of happy love? Yet everywhere around us</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Stand the closed portals of events unknown.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>A VOICE [<i>behind the scenes</i>].&mdash;This way, my dear companions; this way.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>listening</i>].&mdash;Hark! I hear voices to the right of yonder grove of
+trees. I will walk in that direction. [<i>Walking and looking about</i>.] Ah!
+here are the maidens of the hermitage coming this way to water the
+shrubs, carrying watering-pots proportioned to their strength. [<i>Gazing
+at them</i>.] How graceful they look!</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In palaces such charms are rarely ours;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The woodland plants outshine the garden flowers.</span><br />
+</div><p>I will conceal myself in this shade and watch them.<br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Stands gazing at them</i>.</span></p>
+
+<p style='text-align: center'><i>Enter &#346;akoontal&aacute;, with her two female companions, employed in the
+manner described</i>.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;This way, my dear companions; this way.</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;Dear &#346;akoontal&aacute;, one would think that father Kanwa had more
+affection for the shrubs of the hermitage even than for you, seeing he
+assigns to you who are yourself as delicate as the fresh-blown jasmine,
+the task of filling with water the trenches which encircle their roots.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;Dear Anas&uacute;y&aacute;, although I am charged by my good father with
+this duty, yet I cannot regard it as a task. I really feel a sisterly
+love for these plants.<br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Continues watering the shrubs</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Can this be the daughter of Kanwa? The saintly man, though
+descended from the great Ka&#347;yapa, must be very deficient in judgment to
+habituate such a maiden to the life of a recluse.</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The sage who would this form of artless grace</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Inure to penance&mdash;thoughtlessly attempts</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To cleave in twain the hard acacia's stem</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With the soft edge of a blue lotus leaf.</span><br /></div>
+<p>Well! concealed behind this tree, I will watch her without raising her
+suspicions.         <span style='float: right;'> [<i>Conceals himself</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;Good Anas&uacute;y&aacute;, Priyamvad&aacute; has drawn this bark-dress too
+tightly about my chest. I pray thee, loosen it a little.</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;I will.         <span style='float: right;'> [<i>Loosens it</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; [<i>smiling</i>].&mdash;Why do you lay the blame on me? Blame rather
+your own blooming youthfulness which imparts fulness to your bosom.</p>
+
+KING.&mdash;A most just observation!<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This youthful form, whose bosom's swelling charms</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By the bark's knotted tissue are concealed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like some fair bud close folded in its sheath,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gives not to view the blooming of its beauty.</span><br />
+</div>But what am I saying? In real truth, this bark-dress, though ill-suited
+to her figure, sets it off like an ornament.<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The lotus with the Saivala entwined</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is not a whit less brilliant: dusky spots</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Heighten the lustre of the cold-rayed moon:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This lovely maiden in her dress of bark</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Seems all the lovelier. E'en the meanest garb</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gives to true beauty fresh attractiveness.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>looking before her</i>].&mdash;Yon Ke&#347;ara-tree beckons to me with
+its young shoots, which, as the breeze waves them to and fro, appear
+like slender fingers. I will go and attend to it. <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Walks towards it</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute;.&mdash;Dear &#346;akoontal&aacute;, prithee, rest in that attitude one moment.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;Why so?</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute;.&mdash;The Ke&#347;ara-tree, whilst your graceful form bends about its
+stem, appears as if it were wedded to some lovely twining creeper.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;Ah! saucy girl, you are most appropriately named Priyamvad&aacute;
+(&quot;Speaker of flattering things&quot;).</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;What Priyamvad&aacute; says, though complimentary, is nevertheless true.
+Verily,<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her ruddy lip vies with the opening bud;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her graceful arms are as the twining stalks;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And her whole form is radiant with the glow</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of youthful beauty, as the tree with bloom.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;See, dear &#346;akoontal&aacute;, here is the young jasmine, which you
+named &quot;the Moonlight of the Grove,&quot; the self-elected wife of the
+mango-tree. Have you forgotten it?</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;Rather will I forget myself. [<i>Approaching the plant and
+looking at it</i>.] How delightful is the season when the jasmine-creeper
+and the mango-tree seem thus to unite in mutual embraces! The fresh
+blossoms of the jasmine resemble the bloom of a young bride, and the
+newly-formed shoots of the mango appear to make it her natural
+protector.          <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Continues gazing at it</i></span>.</p><br />
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; [<i>smiling</i>].&mdash;Do you know, my Anas&uacute;y&aacute;, why &#346;akoontal&aacute; gazes
+so intently at the jasmine?</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;No, indeed, I cannot imagine. I pray thee tell me.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute;.&mdash;She is wishing that as the jasmine is united to a suitable
+tree, so, in like manner, she may obtain a husband worthy of her.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;Speak for yourself, girl; this is the thought in your own
+mind.          <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Continues watering the flowers</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Would that my union with her were permissible! and yet I hardly
+dare hope that the maiden is sprung from a caste different from that of
+the Head of the hermitage. But away with doubt:&mdash;<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That she is free to wed a warrior-king</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My heart attests. For, in conflicting doubts,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The secret promptings of the good man's soul</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Are an unerring index of the truth.</span><br /></div>
+
+<p>However, come what may, I will ascertain the fact.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>in a flurry</i>].&mdash;Ah! a bee, disturbed by the sprinkling of
+the water, has left the young jasmine, and is trying to settle on my
+face.          <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Attempts to drive it away</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>KING [<i>gazing at her ardently</i>].&mdash;Beautiful! there is something charming
+even in her repulse.<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where'er the bee his eager onset plies,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Now here, now there, she darts her kindling eyes:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What love hath yet to teach, fear teaches now,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The furtive glances and the frowning brow.</span><br />
+</div><span style='float: right;'>[<i>In a tone of envy</i>.</span><br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ah happy bee! how boldly dost thou try</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To steal the lustre from her sparkling eye;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And in thy circling movements hover near,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To murmur tender secrets in her ear;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or, as she coyly waves her hand, to sip</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Voluptuous nectar from her lower lip!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While rising doubts my heart's fond hopes destroy,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou dost the fulness of her charms enjoy.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;This impertinent bee will not rest quiet. I must move
+elsewhere. [<i>Moving a few steps off, and casting a glance around</i>.] How
+now! he is following me here. Help! my dear friends, help! deliver me
+from the attacks of this troublesome insect.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; AND ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;How can we deliver you? Call Dushyanta to your
+aid. The sacred groves are under the king's special protection.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;An excellent opportunity for me to show myself. Fear
+not&mdash;[<i>Checks himself when the words are half-uttered.</i> <i>Aside</i>.] But
+stay, if I introduce myself in this manner, they will know me to be the
+King. Be it so, I will accost them, nevertheless.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>moving a step or two further off</i>].&mdash;What! it still
+persists in following me.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>advancing hastily</i>].&mdash;When mighty Puru's offspring sways the
+earth,<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And o'er the wayward holds his threatening rod,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who dares molest the gentle maids that keep</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their holy vigils here in Kanwa's grove?</span><br />
+</div>
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>All look at the King, and are embarrassed</i>.<br /></span><br />
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;Kind Sir, no outrage has been committed;
+only our dear friend here was teased by the attacks of a troublesome
+bee.</p>
+
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Points to &#346;akoontal&aacute;</i>.</span><br />
+
+<p>KING [<i>turning to &#346;akoontal&aacute;</i>].&mdash;I trust all is well with your
+devotional rites?</p>
+
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>&#346;akoontal&aacute; stands confused and silent</i>.<br /></span><br />
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;All is well, indeed, now that we are honored by the reception
+of a distinguished guest. Dear &#346;akoontal&aacute;, go, bring from the hermitage
+an offering of flowers, rice, and fruit. This water that we have brought
+with us will serve to bathe our guest's feet.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;The rites of hospitality are already performed; your truly kind
+words are the best offering I can receive.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute;.&mdash;At least be good enough, gentle Sir, to sit down awhile,
+and rest yourself on this seat shaded by the leaves of the Sapta-parna
+tree.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;You, too, must all be fatigued by your employment.</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;Dear &#346;akoontal&aacute;, there is no impropriety in our sitting by the
+side of our guest: come, let us sit down here.</p>
+
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>All sit down together</i>.</span><br />
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;How is it that the sight of this man has made me
+sensible of emotions inconsistent with religious vows?</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>gazing at them all by turns</i>].&mdash;How charmingly your friendship is
+in keeping with the equality of your ages and appearance!</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; [<i>aside to Anas&uacute;y&aacute;</i>].&mdash;Who can this person be, whose lively
+yet dignified manner, and polite conversation, bespeak him a man of high
+rank?</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;I, too, my dear, am very curious to know. I will ask him
+myself. [<i>Aloud</i>]. Your kind words, noble Sir, fill me with confidence,
+and prompt me to inquire of what regal family our noble guest is the
+ornament? what country is now mourning his absence? and what induced a
+person so delicately nurtured to expose himself to the fatigue of
+visiting this grove of penance?</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;Be not troubled, O my heart, Anas&uacute;y&aacute; is giving
+utterance to thy thoughts.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;How now shall I reply? shall I make myself known, or
+shall I still disguise my real rank? I have it; I will answer her thus.
+[<i>Aloud</i>]. I am the person charged by his majesty, the descendant of
+Puru, with the administration of justice and religion; and am come to
+this sacred grove to satisfy myself that the rites of the hermits are
+free from obstruction.</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;The hermits, then, and all the members of our religious
+society have now a guardian.</p>
+
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>&#346;akoontal&aacute; gazes bashfully at the King</i>.</span><br />
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; AND ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute; [<i>perceiving the state of her feelings, and of
+the King's. Aside to &#346;akoontal&aacute;</i>].&mdash;Dear &#346;akoontal&aacute;, if father Kanwa
+were but at home to-day&mdash;&mdash;&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>angrily</i>].&mdash;What if he were?</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; AND ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;He would honor this our distinguished guest
+with an offering of the most precious of his possessions.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;Go to! you have some silly idea in your minds. I will not
+listen to such remarks.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;May I be allowed, in my turn, to ask you maidens a few
+particulars respecting your friend?</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; AND ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;Your request, Sir, is an honor.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;The sage Kanwa lives in the constant practice of austerities.
+How, then, can this friend of yours be called his daughter?</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;I will explain to you, Sir. You have heard of an illustrious
+sage of regal caste, Vi&#347;w&aacute;mitra, whose family name is Ka&uacute;sika.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;I have.</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;Know that he is the real father of our friend. The venerable
+Kanwa is only her reputed father. He it was who brought her up, when she
+was deserted by her mother.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;&quot;Deserted by her mother!&quot; My curiosity is excited; pray let me
+hear the story from the beginning.</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;You shall hear it, Sir. Some time since, this sage of regal
+caste, while performing a most severe penance on the banks of the river
+God&aacute;var&iacute;, excited the jealousy and alarm of the gods; insomuch that they
+despatched a lovely nymph named Menak&aacute; to interrupt his devotions.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;The inferior gods, I am aware, are jealous of the power which the
+practice of excessive devotion confers on mortals.</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;Well, then, it happened that Vi&#347;w&aacute;mitra, gazing on the
+bewitching beauty of that nymph at a season when, spring being in its
+glory&mdash;&mdash;&mdash;<br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Stops short, and appears confused</i>.</span><br />
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;The rest may be easily divined. &#346;akoontal&aacute;, then, is the
+offspring of the nymph.</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;Just so.</p>
+
+KING.&mdash;It is quite intelligible.<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How could a mortal to such charms give birth?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The lightning's radiance flashes not from earth.</span><br />
+</div>
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>&#346;akoontal&aacute; remains modestly seated with downcast eyes.</i></span><br />
+
+<p>[<i>Aside</i>]. And so my desire has really scope for its indulgence. Yet I am
+still distracted by doubts, remembering the pleasantry of her female
+companions respecting her wish for a husband.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; [<i>looking with a smile at &#346;akoontal&aacute;, and then turning
+towards the King</i>].&mdash;You seem desirous, Sir, of asking something
+further.</p>
+
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>&#346;akoontal&aacute; makes a chiding gesture with her finger</i>.</span><br />
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;You conjecture truly. I am so eager to hear the particulars of
+your friend's history, that I have still another question to ask.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute;.&mdash;Scruple not to do so. Persons who lead the life of hermits
+may be questioned unreservedly.</p>
+
+KING.&mdash;I wish to ascertain one point respecting your friend&mdash;<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Will she be bound by solitary vows</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Opposed to love, till her espousals only?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or ever dwell with these her cherished fawns,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whose eyes, in lustre vieing with her own,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Return her gaze of sisterly affection?</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute;.&mdash;Hitherto, Sir, she has been engaged in the practice of
+religious duties, and has lived in subjection to her foster-father; but
+it is now his fixed intention to give her away in marriage to a husband
+worthy of her.</p>
+
+KING [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;His intention may be easily carried into effect.<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Be hopeful, O my heart, thy harrowing doubts</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Are past and gone; that which thou didst believe</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To be as unapproachable as fire,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is found a glittering gem that may be touched.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>pretending anger</i>].&mdash;Anas&uacute;y&aacute;, I shall leave you.</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;Why so?</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;That I may go and report this impertinent Priyamvad&aacute; to the
+venerable matron, Gautam&iacute;.<a name="FNanchor34"></a><a href="#Footnote_34"><sup>[34]</sup></a></p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;Surely, dear friend, it would not be right to leave a
+distinguished guest before he has received the rights of hospitality,
+and quit his presence in this wilful manner.</p>
+
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>&#346;akoontal&aacute;, without answering a word, moves away</i>.</span><br />
+
+<p>KING [<i>making a movement to arrest her departure, but checking himself.
+Aside</i>].&mdash;Ah! a lover's feelings betray themselves by his gestures.<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When I would fain have stayed the maid, a sense</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of due decorum checked my bold design:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Though I have stirred not, yet my mien betrays</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My eagerness to follow on her steps.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; [<i>holding &#346;akoontal&aacute; back</i>].&mdash;Dear &#346;akoontal&aacute;, it does not
+become you to go away in this manner.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>frowning</i>].&mdash;Why not, pray?</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute;.&mdash;You are under a promise to water two more shrubs for me.
+When you have paid your debt, you shall go, and not before.<br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Forces her to turn back</i>.</span><br />
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Spare her this trouble, gentle maiden. The exertion of watering
+the shrubs has already fatigued her.</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The water-jar has overtasked the strength</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of her slim arms; her shoulders droop, her hands</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Are ruddy with the glow of quickened pulses;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>E'en now her agitated breath imparts</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unwonted tremor to her heaving breast;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The pearly drops that mar the recent bloom</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of the &#346;ir&iacute;sha pendant in her ear,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gather in clustering circles on her cheek;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Loosed is the fillet of her hair: her hand</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Restrains the locks that struggle to be free.</span><br />
+</div><p>Suffer me, then, thus to discharge the debt for you.</p>
+
+<p>[<i>Offers a ring to Priyamvad&aacute;. Both the maidens, reading the name
+Dushyanta on the seal, look at each other with surprise.</i></p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Nay, think not that I am King Dushyanta. I am only the king's
+officer, and this is the ring which I have received from him as my
+credentials.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute;.&mdash;The greater the reason you ought not to part with the ring
+from your finger. I am content to release her from her obligation at
+your simple request. [<i>With a smile</i>.] Now, &#346;akoontal&aacute; my love, you are
+at liberty to retire, thanks to the intercession of this noble stranger,
+or rather of this mighty prince.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;My movements are no longer under my own control.
+[<i>Aloud</i>.] Pray, what authority have you over me, either to send me away
+or keep me back?</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>gazing at &#346;akoontal&aacute;. Aside</i>].&mdash;Would I could ascertain whether
+she is affected towards me as I am towards her! At any rate, my hopes
+are free to indulge themselves. Because,<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Although she mingles not her words with mine,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yet doth her listening ear drink in my speech;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Although her eye shrinks from my ardent gaze,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No form but mine attracts its timid glances.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>A VOICE [<i>behind the scenes</i>].&mdash;O hermits, be ready to protect the
+animals belonging to our hermitage. King Dushyanta, amusing himself with
+hunting, is near at hand.<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lo! by the feet of prancing horses raised,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thick clouds of moving dust, like glittering swarms</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of locusts in the glow of eventide,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fall on the branches of our sacred trees;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where hang the dripping vests of woven bark,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bleached by the waters of the cleansing fountain.</span><br />
+And see!<br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Scared by the royal chariot in its course,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With headlong haste an elephant invades</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hallowed precincts of our sacred grove;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Himself the terror of the startled deer,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And an embodied hindrance to our rites.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hedge of creepers clinging to his feet,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Feeble obstruction to his mad career,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is dragged behind him in a tangled chain;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And with terrific shock one tusk he drives</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Into the riven body of a tree,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sweeping before him all impediments.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>KING [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;Out upon it! my retinue are looking for me, and are
+disturbing this holy retreat. Well! there is no help for it; I must go
+and meet them.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; AND ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;Noble Sir, we are terrified by the accidental
+disturbance caused by the wild elephant. Permit us to return into the
+cottage.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>hastily</i>].&mdash;Go, gentle maidens. It shall be our care that no
+injury happen to the hermitage.          [<i>All rise up</i>.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; AND ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;After such poor hospitality we are ashamed to
+request the honor of a second visit from you.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Say not so. The mere sight of you, sweet maidens, has been to me
+the best entertainment.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;Anas&uacute;y&aacute;, a pointed blade of Ku&#347;a-grass<a name="FNanchor35"></a><a href="#Footnote_35"><sup>[35]</sup></a> has pricked my
+foot; and my bark-mantle is caught in the branch of a Kuruvaka-bush. Be
+so good as to wait for me until I have disentangled it.
+[<i>Exit with her two companions, after making pretexts for delay, that
+she may steal glances at the King</i>.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;I have no longer any desire to return to the city. I will
+therefore rejoin my attendants, and make them encamp somewhere in the
+vicinity of this sacred grove. In good truth, &#346;akoontal&aacute; has taken such
+possession of my thoughts, that I cannot turn myself in any other
+direction.<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My limbs drawn onward leave my heart behind,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like silken pennon borne against the wind.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+
+
+<hr style='width: 65%;' />
+<a name='ACT_SECOND'></a><h3><b>ACT SECOND</b></h3>
+
+<h4>Scene.&mdash;A Plain on the Skirts of the Forest</h4>
+<br />
+
+<p><i>Enter the Jester, M&aacute;thavya, in a melancholy mood</i>.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA [<i>sighing</i>].&mdash;Heigh-ho! what an unlucky fellow I am! worn to a
+shadow by my royal friend's sporting propensities. &quot;Here's a deer!&quot;
+&quot;There goes a boar!&quot; &quot;Yonder's a tiger!&quot; This is the only burden of our
+talk, while in the heat of the meridian sun we toil on from jungle to
+jungle, wandering about in the paths of the woods, where the trees
+afford us no shelter. Are we thirsty? We have nothing to drink but the
+foul water of some mountain stream, filled with dry leaves which give it
+a most pungent flavor. Are we hungry? We have nothing to eat but roast
+game, which we must swallow down at odd times, as best we can. Even at
+night there is no peace to be had. Sleeping is out of the question, with
+joints all strained by dancing attendance upon my sporting friend; or if
+I do happen to doze, I am awakened at the very earliest dawn by the
+horrible din of a lot of rascally beaters and huntsmen, who must needs
+surround the wood before sunrise, and deafen me with their clatter. Nor
+are these my only troubles. Here's a fresh grievance, like a new boil
+rising upon an old one! Yesterday, while we were lagging behind, my
+royal friend entered yonder hermitage after a deer; and there, as
+ill-luck would have it? caught sight of a beautiful girl, called
+&#346;akoontal&aacute;, the hermit's daughter. From that moment, not another thought
+about returning to the city! and all last night, not a wink of sleep did
+he get for thinking of the damsel. What is to be done? At any rate, I
+will be on the watch for him as soon as he has finished his toilet.
+[[<i>Walking and looking about</i>.] Oh! here he comes, attended by the
+Yavana women with bows in their hands, and wearing garlands of wild
+flowers. What shall I do? I have it. I will pretend to stand in the
+easiest attitude for resting my bruised and crippled limbs.<br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Stands leaning on a staff</i>.</span><br />
+
+<p><i>Enter King Dushyanta, followed by a retinue in the manner described</i>.</p>
+
+KING.&mdash;True, by no easy conquest may I win her,<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yet are my hopes encouraged by her mien.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Love is not yet triumphant; but, methinks,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hearts of both are ripe for his delights.</span><br />
+</div>[<i>Smiling</i>.] Ah! thus does the lover delude himself; judging of the
+state of his loved one's feelings by his own desires. But yet,<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The stolen glance with half-averted eye,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hesitating gait, the quick rebuke</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Addressed to her companion, who would fain</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Have stayed her counterfeit departure; these</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Are signs not unpropitious to my suit.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So eagerly the lover feeds his hopes,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Claiming each trivial gesture for his own.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA [<i>still in the same attitude</i>].&mdash;Ah, friend, my hands cannot
+move to greet you with the usual salutation. I can only just command my
+lips to wish your majesty victory.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Why, what has paralyzed your limbs?</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;You might as well ask me how my eye comes to water after you
+have poked your finger into it.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;I don't understand you; speak more intelligibly.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;Ah, my dear friend, is yonder upright reed transformed into a
+crooked plant by its own act, or by the force of the current?</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;The current of the river causes it, I suppose.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;Aye; just as you are the cause of my crippled limbs.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;How so?</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;Here are you living the life of a wild man of the woods in a
+savage, unfrequented region, while your state affairs are left to shift
+for themselves; and as for poor me, I am no longer master of my own
+limbs, but have to follow you about day after day in your chases after
+wild animals, till my bones are all crippled and out of joint. Do, my
+dear friend, let me have one day's rest.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;This fellow little knows, while he talks in this
+manner, that my mind is wholly engrossed by recollections of the
+hermit's daughter, and quite as disinclined to the chase as his own.<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No longer can I bend my well-braced bow</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Against the timid deer; nor e'er again</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With well-aimed arrows can I think to harm</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>These her beloved associates, who enjoy</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The privilege of her companionship;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Teaching her tender glances in return.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA [<i>looking in the King's face</i>].&mdash;I may as well speak to the
+winds, for any attention you pay to my requests. I suppose you have
+something on your mind, and are talking it over to yourself.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>smiling</i>].&mdash;I was only thinking that I ought not to disregard a
+friend's request.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;Then may the King live forever!</p>          <span style="float: right;">[<i>Moves off</i>.</span><br />
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Stay a moment, my dear friend. I have something else to say to
+you.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;Say on, then.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;When you have rested, you must assist me in another business,
+which will give you no fatigue.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;In eating something nice, I hope.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;You shall know at some future time.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;No time better than the present.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;What ho! there.</p>
+
+<p>WARDER [<i>entering</i>].&mdash;What are your Majesty's commands?</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;O Raivataka! bid the General of the forces attend.</p>
+
+<p>WARDER.&mdash;I will, Sire.        [<i>Exit and re&euml;nters with the General</i>]
+Come forward, General; his Majesty is looking towards you, and has some
+order to give you.</p>
+
+<p>GENERAL [<i>looking at the King</i>].&mdash;Though hunting is known to produce ill
+effects, my royal master has derived only benefit from it. For</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like the majestic elephant that roams</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>O'er mountain wilds, so does the King display</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A stalwart frame, instinct with vigorous life.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His brawny arms and manly chest are scored</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By frequent passage of the sounding string;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unharmed he bears the mid-day sun; no toil</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His mighty spirit daunts; his sturdy limbs,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Stripped of redundant flesh, relinquish nought</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of their robust proportions, but appear</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In muscle, nerve, and sinewy fibre cased.</span><br />
+</div><p>[<i>Approaching the King</i>.] Victory to the King! We have tracked the wild
+beasts to their lairs in the forest. Why delay, when everything is
+ready?</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;My friend M&aacute;thavya here has been disparaging the chase, till he
+has taken away all my relish for it.</p>
+
+<p>GENERAL [<i>aside to M&aacute;thavya</i>].&mdash;Persevere in your opposition, my good
+fellow; I will sound the King's real feelings, and humor him
+accordingly. [<i>Aloud</i>]. The blockhead talks nonsense, and your Majesty,
+in your own person, furnishes the best proof of it. Observe, Sire, the
+advantage and pleasure the hunter derives from the chase.<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Freed from all grosser influences, his frame</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Loses its sluggish humors, and becomes</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Buoyant, compact, and fit for bold encounter.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Tis his to mark with joy the varied passions,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fierce heats of anger, terror, blank dismay,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of forest animals that cross his path.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then what a thrill transports the hunter's soul,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When, with unerring course, his driven shaft</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Pierces the moving mark! Oh! 'tis conceit</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In moralists to call the chase a vice;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What recreation can compare with this?</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA [<i>angrily</i>].&mdash;Away! tempter, away! The King has recovered his
+senses, and is himself again. As for you, you may, if you choose, wander
+about from forest to forest, till some old bear seizes you by the nose,
+and makes a mouthful of you.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;My good General, as we are just now in the neighborhood of a
+consecrated grove, your panegyric upon hunting is somewhat ill-timed,
+and I cannot assent to all you have said. For the present,<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All undisturbed the buffaloes shall sport</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In yonder pool, and with their ponderous horns</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Scatter its tranquil waters, while the deer,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Couched here and there in groups beneath the shade</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of spreading branches, ruminate in peace.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And all securely shall the herd of boars</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Feed on the marshy sedge; and thou, my bow,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With slackened string enjoy a long repose.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>GENERAL.&mdash;So please your Majesty, it shall be as you desire.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Recall, then, the beaters who were sent in advance to surround
+the forest. My troops must not be allowed to disturb this sacred
+retreat, and irritate its pious inhabitants.<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Know that within the calm and cold recluse</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lurks unperceived a germ of smothered flame,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All-potent to destroy; a latent fire</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That rashly kindled bursts with fury forth:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As in the disc of crystal that remains</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Cool to the touch, until the solar ray</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Falls on its polished surface, and excites</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The burning heat that lies within concealed.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>GENERAL.&mdash;Your Majesty's commands shall be obeyed.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;Off with you, you son of a slave! Your nonsense won't go down
+here, my fine fellow.</p>          <span style="float: right;">[<i>Exit General</i>.</span><br />
+
+<p>KING [<i>looking at his attendants</i>].&mdash;Here, women, take my hunting-dress;
+and you, Raivataka, keep guard carefully outside.</p>
+
+<p>ATTENDANTS.&mdash;We will, sire.</p>          <span style="float: right;">[<i>Exeunt.</i></span><br />
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;Now that you have got rid of these plagues, who have been
+buzzing about us like so many flies, sit down, do, on that stone slab,
+with the shade of the tree as your canopy, and I will seat myself by you
+quite comfortably.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Go you, and sit down first.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;Come along, then.</p>
+
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Both walk on a little way, and seat themselves</i>.</span><br />
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;M&aacute;thavya, it may be said of you that you have never beheld
+anything worth seeing: for your eyes have not yet looked upon the
+loveliest object in creation.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;How can you say so, when I see your Majesty before me at this
+moment?</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;It is very natural that everyone should consider his own friend
+perfect; but I was alluding to &#346;akoontal&aacute;, the brightest ornament of
+these hallowed groves.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;I understand well enough, but I am not going to
+humor him. [<i>Aloud</i>.] If, as you intimate, she is a hermit's daughter,
+you cannot lawfully ask her in marriage. You may as well, then, dismiss
+her from your mind, for any good the mere sight of her can do.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Think you that a descendant of the mighty Puru could fix his
+affections on an unlawful object?</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Though, as men say, the offspring of the sage,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The maiden to a nymph celestial owes</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her being, and by her mother left on earth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was found and nurtured by the holy man</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As his own daughter, in this hermitage;&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So, when dissevered from its parent stalk,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Some falling blossom of the jasmine, wafted</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upon the sturdy sunflower, is preserved</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By its support from premature decay.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA [<i>smiling</i>].&mdash;This passion of yours for a rustic maiden, when
+you have so many gems of women at home in your palace, seems to me very
+like the fancy of a man who is tired of sweet dates, and longs for sour
+tamarinds as a variety.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;You have not seen her, or you would not talk in this fashion.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;I can quite understand it must require something surpassingly
+attractive to excite the admiration of such a great man as you.</p>
+
+KING.&mdash;I will describe her, my dear friend, in a few words&mdash;<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Man's all-wise Maker, wishing to create</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A faultless form, whose matchless symmetry</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Should far transcend Creation's choicest works,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Did call together by his mighty will,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And garner up in his eternal mind,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A bright assemblage of all lovely things:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And then, as in a picture, fashion them</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Into one perfect and ideal form.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Such the divine, the wondrous prototype,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whence her fair shape was moulded into being.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;If that's the case, she must indeed throw all other beauties
+into the shade.</p>
+
+KING.&mdash;To my mind she really does.<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This peerless maid is like a fragrant flower,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whose perfumed breath has never been diffused;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A tender bud, that no profaning hand</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Has dared to sever from its parent stalk;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A gem of priceless water, just released</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Pure and unblemished from its glittering bed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or may the maiden haply be compared</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To sweetest honey, that no mortal lip</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Has sipped; or, rather to the mellowed fruit</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of virtuous actions in some former birth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Now brought to full perfection? Lives the man</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whom bounteous heaven has destined to espouse her?</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;Make haste, then, to her aid; you have no time to lose, if
+you don't wish this fruit of all the virtues to drop into the mouth of
+some greasy-headed rustic of devout habits.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;The lady is not her own mistress, and her foster-father is not at
+home.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;Well, but tell me, did she look at all kindly upon you?</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Maidens brought up in a hermitage are naturally shy and reserved;
+but for all that,<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She did look towards me, though she quick withdrew</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her stealthy glances when she met my gaze;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She smiled upon me sweetly, but disguised</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With maiden grace the secret of her smiles.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Coy love was half unveiled; then, sudden checked</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By modesty, left half to be divined.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;Why, of course, my dear friend, you never could seriously
+expect that at the very first sight she would fall over head and ears in
+love with you, and without more ado come and sit in your lap.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;When we parted from each other, she betrayed her liking for me by
+clearer indications, but still with the utmost modesty.<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Scarce had the fair one from my presence passed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When, suddenly, without apparent cause,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She stopped, and counterfeiting pain, exclaimed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;My foot is wounded by this prickly grass.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then glancing at me tenderly, she feigned</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Another charming pretext for delay,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Pretending that a bush had caught her robe,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And turned as if to disentangle it.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;I trust you have laid in a good stock of provisions, for I
+see you intend making this consecrated grove your game-preserve, and
+will be roaming here in quest of sport for some time to come.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;You must know, my good fellow, that I have been recognized by
+some of the inmates of the hermitage. Now I want the assistance of your
+fertile invention, in devising some excuse for going there again.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;There is but one expedient that I can suggest. You are the
+King, are you not?</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;What then?</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;Say you have come for the sixth part of their grain, which
+they owe you for tribute.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;No, no, foolish man; these hermits pay me a very different kind
+of tribute, which I value more than heaps of gold or jewels; observe,<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The tribute which my other subjects bring</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Must moulder into dust, but holy men</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Present me with a portion of the fruits</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of penitential services and prayers&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A precious and imperishable gift.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>A VOICE [<i>behind the scenes</i>].&mdash;We are fortunate; here is the object of
+our search.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>listening],</i>&mdash;Surely those must be the voices of hermits, to
+judge by their deep tones.</p>
+
+<p>WARDER [<i>entering],</i>&mdash;Victory to the King! two young hermits are in
+waiting outside, and solicit an audience of your Majesty.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Introduce them immediately.</p>
+
+<p>WARDER.&mdash;I will, my liege. [<i>Goes out, and re&euml;nters with two young
+Hermits</i>.] This way, Sirs, this way.</p>
+
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Both the Hermits look at the King</i></span><br />
+
+<p>FIRST HERMIT.&mdash;How majestic is his mien, and yet what confidence it
+inspires! But this might be expected in a king whose character and
+habits have earned for him a title only one degree removed from that of
+a Saint.<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In this secluded grove, whose sacred joys</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All may participate, he deigns to dwell</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like one of us; and daily treasures up</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A store of purest merit for himself,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By the protection of our holy rites.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In his own person wondrously are joined</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Both majesty and saintlike holiness:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And often chanted by inspired bards,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His hallowed title of &quot;Imperial Sage&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ascends in joyous accents to the skies.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>SECOND HERMIT.&mdash;Bear in mind, Gautama, that this is the great Dushyanta,
+the friend of Indra.</p>
+
+<p>FIRST HERMIT.&mdash;What of that?</p>
+
+SECOND HERMIT.&mdash;Where is the wonder if his nervous arm,<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Puissant and massive as the iron bar</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That binds a castle-gateway, singly sways</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The sceptre of the universal earth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>E'en to its dark-green boundary of waters?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or if the gods, beholden to his aid</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In their fierce warfare with the powers of hell,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Should blend his name with Indra's in their songs</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of victory, and gratefully accord</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No lower meed of praise to his braced bow,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Than to the thunders of the god of heaven?</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>BOTH THE HERMITS [<i>approaching</i>].&mdash;Victory to the King!</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>rising from his seat</i>].&mdash;Hail to you both!</p>
+
+<p>BOTH THE HERMITS.&mdash;Heaven bless your Majesty!</p>
+
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>They offer fruits</i>.</span><br />
+
+<p>KING [<i>respectfully receiving the offering</i>].&mdash;Tell me, I pray you, the
+object of your visit.</p>
+
+<p>BOTH THE HERMITS.&mdash;The inhabitants of the hermitage having heard of your
+Majesty's sojourn in our neighborhood, make this humble petition.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;What are their commands?</p>
+
+<p>BOTH THE HERMITS.&mdash;In the absence of our Superior, the great Sage Kanwa,
+evil demons are disturbing our sacrificial rites.<a name="FNanchor36"></a><a href="#Footnote_36"><sup>[36]</sup></a> Deign, therefore,
+accompanied by your charioteer, to take up your abode in our hermitage
+for a few days.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;I am honored by your invitation.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;Most opportune and convenient, certainly!</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>smiling</i>].&mdash;Ho! there, Raivataka! Tell the charioteer from me to
+bring round the chariot with my bow.</p>
+
+<p>WARDER.&mdash;I will, Sire.</p>           <span style="float: right;">[<i>Exit.</i></span><br />
+
+<p>BOTH THE HERMITS [<i>joyfully</i>].&mdash;Well it becomes the King by acts of
+grace<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To emulate the virtues of his race.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Such acts thy lofty destiny attest;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy mission is to succor the distressed.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>KING [<i>bowing to the Hermits</i>].&mdash;Go first, reverend Sirs, I will follow
+you immediately.</p>
+
+<p>BOTH THE HERMITS.&mdash;May victory attend you! </p>        <span style="float: right;">[<i>Exeunt.</i></span><br />
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;My dear M&aacute;thavya, are you not full of longing to see &#346;akoontal&aacute;?</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;To tell you the truth, though I was just now brimful of
+desire to see her, I have not a drop left since this piece of news about
+the demons.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Never fear; you shall keep close to me for protection.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;Well, you must be my guardian-angel, and act the part of a
+very Vishnu<a name="FNanchor37"></a><a href="#Footnote_37"><sup>[37]</sup></a> to me.</p>
+
+<p>WARDER&mdash;[<i>entering</i>].&mdash;Sire, the chariot is ready, and only waits to
+conduct you to victory. But here is a messenger named Karabhaka, just
+arrived from your capital, with a message from the Queen, your mother.</p>
+
+<p>KING&mdash;[<i>respectfully</i>].&mdash;How say you? a messenger from the venerable
+Queen?</p>
+
+<p>WARDER.&mdash;Even so.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Introduce him at once.</p>
+
+<p>WARDER.&mdash;I will, Sire. [<i>Goes out, and re-&euml;nters with Karabhaka</i>.]
+Behold the King! Approach.</p>
+
+<p>KARABHAKA.&mdash;Victory to the King! The Queen-mother bids me say that in
+four days from the present time she intends celebrating a solemn
+ceremony for the advancement and preservation of her son. She expects
+that your Majesty will honor her with your presence on that occasion.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;This places me in a dilemma. Here, on the one hand, is the
+commission of these holy men to be executed; and, on the other, the
+command of my revered parent to be obeyed. Both duties are too sacred to
+be neglected. What is to be done?</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;You will have to take up an intermediate position between the
+two, like King Tri&#347;anku, who was suspended between heaven and earth,
+because the sage Vi&#347;w&aacute;mitra commanded him to mount up to heaven, and the
+gods ordered him down again.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;I am certainly very much perplexed. For here,</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Two different duties are required of me</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In widely distant places; how can I</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In my own person satisfy them both?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus is my mind distracted and impelled</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In opposite directions, like a stream</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That, driven back by rocks, still rushes on,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Forming two currents in its eddying course.</span><br />
+</div><p>[<i>Reflecting</i>.] Friend M&aacute;thavya, as you were my playfellow in childhood,
+the Queen has always received you like a second son; go you, then, back
+to her and tell her of my solemn engagement to assist these holy men.
+You can supply my place in the ceremony, and act the part of a son to
+the Queen.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;With the greatest pleasure in the world; but don't suppose
+that I am really coward enough to have the slightest fear of those
+trumpery demons.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>smiling</i>].&mdash;Oh! of course not; a great Br&aacute;hman like you could not
+possibly give way to such weakness.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;You must let me travel in a manner suitable to the King's
+younger brother.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Yes, I shall send my retinue with you, that there may be no
+further disturbance in this sacred forest.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA [<i>with a strut</i>].&mdash;Already I feel quite like a young prince.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;This is a giddy fellow, and in all probability he will
+let out the truth about my present pursuit to the women of the palace.
+What is to be done? I must say something to deceive him. [<i>Aloud to
+M&aacute;thavya, taking him by the hand</i>.] Dear friend, I am going to the
+hermitage wholly and solely out of respect for its pious inhabitants,
+and not because I have really any liking for &#346;akoontal&aacute;, the hermit's
+daughter. Observe,<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What suitable communion could there be</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Between a monarch and a rustic girl?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I did but feign an idle passion, friend,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Take not in earnest what was said in jest.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;Don't distress yourself; I quite understand.</p>
+
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exeunt.</i></span><br />
+
+
+<hr style='width: 65%;' />
+<a name='PRELUDE_TO_ACT_THIRD'></a><h3>PRELUDE TO ACT THIRD</h3>
+
+<h4>Scene.&mdash;The Hermitage</h4>
+<br />
+
+<p><i>Enter a young Br&aacute;hman, carrying bundles of Ku&#347;a-grass for the use of
+the sacrificing priests</i>.</p>
+
+<p>YOUNG BR&Aacute;HMAN.&mdash;How wonderful is the power of King Dushyanta! No sooner
+did he enter our hermitage, than we were able to proceed with our
+sacrificial rites, unmolested by the evil demons.<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No need to fix the arrow to the bow;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The mighty monarch sounds the quivering string,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, by the thunder of his arms dismayed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Our demon foes are scattered to the wind.</span><br />
+</div>I must now, therefore, make haste and deliver to the sacrificing priests
+these bundles of Ku&#347;a-grass, to be strewn round the altar. [<i>Walking and
+looking about; then addressing someone off the stage</i>.] Why, Priyamvad&aacute;,
+for whose use are you carrying that ointment of Us&iacute;ra-root and those
+lotus leaves with fibres attached to them? [<i>Listening for her answer</i>.]
+What say you?&mdash;that &#346;akoontal&aacute; is suffering from fever produced by
+exposure to the sun, and that this ointment is to cool her burning
+frame? Nurse her with care, then, Priyamvad&aacute;, for she is cherished by
+our reverend Superior as the very breath of his nostrils. I, for my
+part, will contrive that soothing waters, hallowed in the sacrifice, be
+administered to her by the hands of Gautam&iacute;.<br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exit.</i></span><br />
+
+
+
+<hr style='width: 65%;' />
+<a name='ACT_THIRD'></a><h3>ACT THIRD</h3>
+
+<h4>Scene.&mdash;The Sacred Grove</h4>
+<br />
+
+<p><i>Enter King Dushyanta, with the air of one in love</i>.</p>
+
+KING [<i>sighing thoughtfully</i>].&mdash;The holy sage possesses magic power<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In virtue of his penance; she, his ward,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Under the shadow of his tutelage</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rests in security. I know it well;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yet sooner shall the rushing cataract</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In foaming eddies re-ascend the steep,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Than my fond heart turn back from its pursuit.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>God of Love! God of the flowery shafts!<a name="FNanchor38"></a><a href="#Footnote_38"><sup>[38]</sup></a> we are all of us cruelly
+deceived by thee, and by the Moon, however deserving of confidence you
+may both appear.</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For not to us do these thine arrows seem</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Pointed with tender flowerets; not to us</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Doth the pale moon irradiate the earth</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With beams of silver fraught with cooling dews:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But on our fevered frames the moon-beams fall</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like darts of fire, and every flower-tipped shaft</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of K&aacute;ma, as it probes our throbbing hearts,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Seems to be barbed with hardest adamant.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>Adorable god of love! hast thou no pity for me? [<i>In a tone of
+anguish</i>.] How can thy arrows be so sharp when they are pointed with
+flowers? Ah! I know the reason:</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>E'en now in thine unbodied essence lurks</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The fire of Siva's anger, like the flame</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That ever hidden in the secret depths</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of ocean, smoulders there unseen. How else</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Couldst thou, all immaterial as thou art,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Inflame our hearts thus fiercely?&mdash;thou, whose form</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was scorched to ashes by a sudden flash</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From the offended god's terrific eye.</span><br />
+</div>Yet, methinks,<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Welcome this anguish, welcome to my heart</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>These rankling wounds inflicted by the god,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who on his scutcheon bears the monster-fish</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Slain by his prowess: welcome death itself,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So that, commissioned by the lord of love,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This fair one be my executioner.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>Adorable divinity! Can I by no reproaches excite your commiseration?</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Have I not daily offered at thy shrine</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Innumerable vows, the only food</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of thine ethereal essence? Are my prayers</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus to be slighted? Is it meet that thou</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shouldst aim thy shafts at thy true votary's heart,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Drawing thy bow-string even to thy ear?</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>[<i>Pacing up and down in a melancholy manner</i>.] Now that the holy men
+have completed their rites, and have no more need of my services, how
+shall I dispel my melancholy? [<i>Sighing.</i> I have but one resource. Oh
+for another sight of the idol of my soul! I will seek her. [<i>Glancing at
+the sun.</i>] In all probability, as the sun's heat is now at its height,
+&#346;akoontal&aacute; is passing her time under the shade of the bowers on the
+banks of the M&aacute;lin&iacute;, attended by her maidens. I will go and look for her
+there. [<i>Walking and looking about.</i>] I suspect the fair one has but
+just passed by this avenue of young-trees.</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Here, as she tripped along, her fingers plucked</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The opening buds: these lacerated plants,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shorn of their fairest blossoms by her hand,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Seem like dismembered trunks, whose recent wounds</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Are still unclosed; while from the bleeding socket</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of many a severed stalk, the milky juice</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Still slowly trickles, and betrays her path.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>[<i>Feeling a breeze.</i>] What a delicious breeze meets me in this spot!</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Here may the zephyr, fragrant with the scent</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of lotuses, and laden with the spray</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Caught from the waters of the rippling stream,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fold in its close embrace my fevered limbs.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>[<i>Walking and looking about.</i>] She must be somewhere in the neighborhood
+of this arbor of overhanging creepers, enclosed by plantations of cane.<br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Looking down.</i>]</span><br />
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For at the entrance here I plainly see</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A line of footsteps printed in the sand.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Here are the fresh impressions of her feet;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their well-known outline faintly marked in front,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>More deeply towards the heel; betokening</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The graceful undulation of her gait.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>I will peep through those branches. [<i>Walking and looking. With
+transport.</i>] Ah! now my eyes are gratified by an entrancing sight.
+Yonder is the beloved of my heart reclining on a rock strewn with
+flowers, and attended by her two friends. How fortunate! Concealed
+behind the leaves, I will listen to their conversation, without raising
+their suspicions.          [<i>Stands concealed, and gazes at them.</i>]</p>
+
+<p><i>&#346;akoontal&aacute; and her two attendants, holding fans in their hands are
+discovered as described</i>.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; AND ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute; [<i>fanning her. In a tone of affection.</i>]&mdash;Dearest
+&#346;akoontal&aacute;, is the breeze raised by these broad lotus leaves refreshing
+to you?</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;Dear friends, why should you trouble yourselves to fan me?</p>
+
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Priyamvad&aacute; and Anas&uacute;y&aacute; look sorrowfully at one another.</i>]</span><br />
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;&#346;akoontal&aacute; seems indeed to be seriously ill. [<i>Thoughtfully.</i>]Can
+it be the intensity of the heat that has affected her? or does my heart
+suggest the true cause of her malady? [<i>Gazing at her passionately.</i>]
+Why should I doubt it?<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The maiden's spotless bosom is o'erspread</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With cooling balsam; on her slender arm</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her only bracelet, twined with lotus stalks,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hangs loose and withered; her recumbent form</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Expresses languor. Ne'er could noon-day sun</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Inflict such fair disorder on a maid&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No, love, and love alone, is hereto blame.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; [<i>aside to Anas&uacute;y&aacute;.</i>]&mdash;I have observed, Anas&uacute;y&aacute;, that
+&#346;akoontal&aacute; has been indisposed ever since her first interview with King
+Dushyanta. Depend upon it, her ailment is to be traced to this source.</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;The same suspicion, dear Priyamvad&aacute;, has crossed my mind. But
+I will at once ask her and ascertain the truth. [<i>Aloud.</i>] Dear
+&#346;akoontal&aacute;, I am about to put a question to you. Your indisposition is
+really very serious.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>half-rising from her couch</i>].&mdash;What were you going to ask?</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;We know very little about love-matters, dear &#346;akoontal&aacute;; but
+for all that, I cannot help suspecting your present state to be
+something similar to that of the lovers we have read about in romances.
+Tell us frankly what is the cause of your disorder. It is useless to
+apply a remedy, until the disease be understood.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Anas&uacute;y&aacute; bears me out in my suspicion.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;I am, indeed, deeply in love; but cannot rashly
+disclose my passion to these young girls.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute;.&mdash;What Anas&uacute;y&aacute; says, dear &#346;akoontal&aacute;, is very just. Why give
+so little heed to your ailment? Every day you are becoming thinner;
+though I must confess your complexion is still as beautiful as ever.</p>
+
+KING.&mdash;Priyamvad&aacute; speaks most truly.<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sunk is her velvet cheek; her wasted bosom</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Loses its fulness; e'en her slender waist</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Grows more attenuate; her face is wan,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her shoulders droop;&mdash;as when the vernal blasts</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sear the young blossoms of the M&aacute;dhav&iacute;,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Blighting their bloom; so mournful is the change,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yet in its sadness, fascinating still,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Inflicted by the mighty lord of love</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On the fair figure of the hermit's daughter.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;Dear friends, to no one would I rather reveal the nature of
+my malady than to you; but I should only be troubling you.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; AND ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;Nay, this is the very point about which we are
+so solicitous. Sorrow shared with affectionate friends is relieved of
+half its poignancy.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Pressed by the partners of her joys and griefs, Her much beloved
+companions, to reveal The cherished secret locked within her breast,
+She needs must utter it; although her looks Encourage me to hope, my
+bosom throbs As anxiously I listen for her answer.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;Know then, dear friends, that from the first moment the
+illustrious Prince, who is the guardian of our sacred grove, presented
+himself to my sight&mdash;<br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Stops short, and appears confused.</i>]</span><br />
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; AND ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;Say on, dear &#346;akoontal&aacute;, say on.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;Ever since that happy moment, my heart's affections have
+been fixed upon him, and my energies of mind and body have all deserted
+me, as you see.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>with rapture</i>].&mdash;Her own lips have uttered the words I most
+longed to hear.<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Love lit the flame, and Love himself allays</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My burning fever, as when gathering clouds</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rise o'er the earth in summer's dazzling noon,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And grateful showers dispel the morning heat.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;You must consent, then, dear friends, to contrive some
+means by which I may find favor with the King, or you will have ere long
+to assist at my funeral.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>with rapture</i>].&mdash;Enough! These words remove all my doubts.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; [<i>aside to Anas&uacute;y&aacute;</i>].&mdash;She is far gone in love, dear Anas&uacute;y&aacute;,
+and no time ought to be lost. Since she has fixed her affections on a
+monarch who is the ornament of Puru's line, we need not hesitate for a
+moment to express our approval.</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;I quite agree with you.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; [<i>aloud</i>].&mdash;We wish you joy, dear &#346;akoontal&aacute;. Your affections
+are fixed on an object in every respect worthy of you. The noblest river
+will unite itself to the ocean, and the lovely M&aacute;dhav&iacute;-creeper clings
+naturally to the Mango, the only tree capable of supporting it.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Why need we wonder if the beautiful constellation Vi&#347;&aacute;kh&aacute; pines
+to be united with the Moon.</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;By what stratagem can we best secure to our friend the
+accomplishment of her heart's desire, both speedily and secretly?</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute;.&mdash;The latter point is all we have to think about. As to
+&quot;speedily,&quot; I look upon the whole affair as already settled.</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;How so?</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute;.&mdash;Did you not observe how the King betrayed his liking by the
+tender manner in which he gazed upon her, and how thin he has become the
+last few days, as if he had been lying awake thinking of her?</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>looking at himself</i>].&mdash;Quite true! I certainly am becoming thin
+from want of sleep:&mdash;<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As night by night in anxious thought I raise</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This wasted arm to rest my sleepless head,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My jewelled bracelet, sullied by the tears</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That trickle from my eyes in scalding streams,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Slips towards my elbow from my shrivelled wrist.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Oft I replace the bauble, but in vain;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So easily it spans the fleshless limb</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That e'en the rough and corrugated skin,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Scarred by the bow-string, will not check its fall.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; [<i>thoughtfully</i>].&mdash;An idea strikes me, Anas&uacute;y&aacute;. Let
+&#346;akoontal&aacute; write a love-letter; I will conceal it in a flower, and
+contrive to drop it in the King's path. He will surely mistake it for
+the remains of some sacred offering, and will, in all probability, pick
+it up.</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;A very ingenious device! It has my entire approval; but what
+says &#346;akoontal&aacute;?</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;I must consider before I can consent to it.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute;.&mdash;Could you not, dear &#346;akoontal&aacute;, think of some pretty
+composition in verse, containing a delicate declaration of your love?</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;Well, I will do my best; but my heart trembles when I think
+of the chances of a refusal.</p>
+
+KING [<i>with rapture</i>].&mdash;Too timid maid, here stands the man from whom<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou fearest a repulse; supremely blessed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To call thee all his own. Well might he doubt</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His title to thy love; but how couldst thou</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Believe thy beauty powerless to subdue him?</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; AND ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;You undervalue your own merits, dear
+&#346;akoontal&aacute;. What man in his senses would intercept with the skirt of his
+robe the bright rays of the autumnal moon, which alone can allay the
+fever of his body?</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>smiling</i>].&mdash;Then it seems I must do as I am bid.<br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Sits down and appears to be thinking.</i>]</span><br />
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;How charming she looks! My very eyes forget to wink, jealous of
+losing even for an instant a sight so enchanting.<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How beautiful the movement of her brow,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As through her mind love's tender fancies flow!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, as she weighs her thoughts, how sweet to trace</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The ardent passion mantling in her face!</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;Dear girls, I have thought of a verse, but I have no
+writing-materials at hand.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute;.&mdash;Write the letters with your nail on this lotus leaf, which
+is smooth as a parrot's breast.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>after writing the verse</i>].&mdash;Listen, dear friends, and tell
+me whether the ideas are appropriately expressed.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; AND ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;We are all attention.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>reads</i>].&mdash;</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I know not the secret thy bosom conceals,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Thy form is not near me to gladden my sight;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But sad is the tale that my fever reveals,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Of the love that consumes me by day and by night.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>KING [<i>advancing hastily towards her</i>].&mdash;</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nay, Love does but warm thee, fair maiden&mdash;thy frame</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Only droops like the bud in the glare of the noon;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But me he consumes with a pitiless flame,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>As the beams of the day-star destroy the pale moon.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; AND ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute; [<i>looking at him joyfully, and rising to salute
+him</i>].&mdash;Welcome, the desire of our hearts, that so speedily presents
+itself!</p>
+
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>&#346;akoontal&aacute; makes an effort to rise.</i>]</span><br />
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Nay, trouble not thyself, dear maiden,</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Move not to do me homage; let thy limbs</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Still softly rest upon their flowery couch,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And gather fragrance from the lotus stalks</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Bruised by the fevered contact of thy frame.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;Deign, gentle Sir, to seat yourself on the rock on which our
+friend is reposing.</p>
+
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>The King sits down. &#346;akoontal&aacute; is confused.</i>]</span><br />
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute;.&mdash;Anyone may see at a glance that you are deeply attached to
+each other. But the affection I have for my friend prompts me to say
+something of which you hardly require to be informed.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Do not hesitate to speak out, my good girl. If you omit to say
+what is in your mind, you may be sorry for it afterwards.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute;.&mdash;Is it not your special office as a King to remove the
+suffering of your subjects who are in trouble?</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Such is my duty, most assuredly.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute;.&mdash;Know, then, that our dear friend has been brought to her
+present state of suffering entirely through love for you. Her life is in
+your hands; take pity on her and restore her to health.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Excellent maiden, our attachment is mutual. It is I who am the
+most honored by it.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>looking at Priyamvad&aacute;</i>].&mdash;What do you mean by detaining the
+King, who must be anxious to return to his royal consorts after so long
+a separation?</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Sweet maiden, banish from thy mind the thought</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That I could love another. Thou dost reign</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Supreme, without a rival, in my heart,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And I am thine alone: disown me not,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Else must I die a second deadlier death&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Killed by thy words, as erst by K&aacute;ma's shafts.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;Kind Sir, we have heard it said that kings have many favorite
+consorts. You must not, then, by your behavior towards our dear friend,
+give her relations cause to sorrow for her.</p>
+
+KING.&mdash;Listen, gentle maiden, while in a few words I quiet your anxiety.<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Though many beauteous forms my palace grace,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Henceforth two things alone will I esteem</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The glory of my royal dynasty;&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My sea-girt realm, and this most lovely maid.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; AND ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;We are satisfied by your assurances.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; [<i>glancing on one side</i>],&mdash;See, Anas&uacute;y&aacute;, there is our
+favorite little fawn running about in great distress, and turning its
+eyes in every direction as if looking for its mother; come, let us help
+the little thing to find her.</p>
+
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Both move away.</i>]</span><br />
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;Dear friends, dear friends, leave me not alone and
+unprotected. Why need you both go?</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; AND ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;Unprotected! when the Protector of the world is
+at your side.</p>          <span style="float: right;">[<i>Exeunt.</i>]</span><br />
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;What! have they both really left me?</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Distress not thyself, sweet maiden. Thy adorer is at hand to wait
+upon thee.<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Oh, let me tend thee, fair one, in the place</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of thy dear friends; and, with broad lotus fans,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Raise cooling breezes to refresh thy frame;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or shall I rather, with caressing touch,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Allay the fever of thy limbs, and soothe</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy aching feet, beauteous as blushing lilies?</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;Nay, touch me not. I will not incur the censure of those
+whom I am bound to respect.<br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Rises and attempts to go.</i>]</span><br />
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Fair one, the heat of noon has not yet subsided, and thy body is
+still feeble.<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How canst thou quit thy fragrant couch of flowers,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And from thy throbbing bosom cast aside</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Its covering of lotus leaves, to brave</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With weak and fainting limbs the noon-day heat?</span><br />
+</div>
+<span style="float: right;">[<i>Forces her to turn back.</i>]</span><br />
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;Infringe not the rules of decorum, mighty descendant of
+Puru. Remember, though I love you, I have no power to dispose of myself.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Why this fear of offending your relations, timid maid? When your
+venerable foster-father hears of it, he will not find fault with you. He
+knows that the law permits us to be united without consulting him.<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In Indra's heaven, so at least 'tis said,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No nuptial rites prevail,<a name="FNanchor39"></a><a href="#Footnote_39"><sup>[39]</sup></a> nor is the bride</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Led to the altar by her future spouse;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But all in secret does the bridegroom plight</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His troth, and each unto the other vow</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Mutual allegiance. Such espousals, too,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Are authorized on earth, and many daughters</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of royal saints thus wedded to their lords,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Have still received their father's benison.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;Leave me, leave me; I must take counsel with my female
+friends.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;I will leave thee when&mdash;&mdash;&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;When?</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;When I have gently stolen from thy lips</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their yet untasted nectar, to allay</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The raging of my thirst, e'en as the bee</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sips the fresh honey from the opening bud.</span><br />
+</div><span style='float: right;'>[<i>Attempts to raise her face. &#346;akoontal&aacute; tries to prevent him</i>.</span><br />
+
+<p>A VOICE [<i>behind the scenes</i>].&mdash;The loving birds, doomed by fate to
+nightly separation, must bid farewell to each other, for evening is at
+hand.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>in confusion</i>].&mdash;Great Prince, I hear the voice of the
+matron Gautam&iacute;. She is coming this way, to inquire after my health.
+Hasten and conceal yourself behind the branches.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;I will.</p>          <span style="float: right;">[<i>Conceals himself</i>.</span><br />
+
+<p><i>Enter Gautam&iacute; with a vase in her hand, preceded by two attendants</i>.</p>
+
+<p>ATTENDANTS.&mdash;This way, most venerable Gautam&iacute;.</p>
+
+<p>GAUTAM&Iacute; [<i>approaching &#346;akoontal&aacute;</i>].&mdash;My child, is the fever of thy limbs
+allayed?</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;Venerable mother, there is certainly a change for the
+better.</p>
+
+<p>GAUTAM&Iacute;.&mdash;Let me sprinkle you with this holy water, and all your
+ailments will depart. [<i>Sprinkling &#346;akoontal&aacute; on the head</i>.] The day is
+closing, my child; come, let us go to the cottage.<br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>They all move away</i>.</span><br />
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;Oh my heart! thou didst fear to taste of
+happiness when it was within thy reach. Now that the object of thy
+desires is torn from thee, how bitter will be thy remorse, how
+distracting thine anguish! [<i>Moving on a few steps and stopping.
+Aloud</i>.] Farewell! bower of creepers, sweet soother of my sufferings,
+farewell! may I soon again be happy under thy shade.<br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exit reluctantly with the others</i>.</span><br />
+
+<p>KING [<i>returning to his former seat in the arbor. Sighing</i>].&mdash;Alas! how
+many are the obstacles to the accomplishment of our wishes!<br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Albeit she did coyly turn away</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her glowing cheek, and with her fingers guard</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her pouting lips, that murmured a denial</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In faltering accents, she did yield herself</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A sweet reluctant captive to my will,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As eagerly I raised her lovely face:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But ere with gentle force I stole the kiss,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Too envious Fate did mar my daring purpose.</span><br />
+</div>Whither now shall I betake myself? I will tarry for a brief space in
+this bower of creepers, so endeared to me by the presence of my beloved
+&#346;akoontal&aacute;.<br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Looking round</i>.</span><br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Here printed on the flowery couch I see</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The fair impression of her slender limbs;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Here is the sweet confession of her love,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Traced with her nail upon the lotus leaf&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And yonder are the withered lily stalks</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That graced her wrist. While all around I view</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Things that recall her image, can I quit</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This bower, e'en though its living charm be fled?</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>A VOICE [<i>in the air</i>].&mdash;Great King,</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Scarce is our evening sacrifice begun,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When evil demons, lurid as the clouds</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That gather round the dying orb of day,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Cluster in hideous troops, obscene and dread,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>About our altars, casting far and near</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Terrific shadows, while the sacred fire</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sheds a pale lustre o'er their ghostly shapes.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>KING.&mdash;I come to the rescue, I come.</p>
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exit.</i></span><br />
+
+
+<hr style='width: 65%;' />
+<a name='PRELUDE_TO_ACT_FOURTH'></a><h3>PRELUDE TO ACT FOURTH</h3>
+
+<h4>Scene.&mdash;The Garden of the Hermitage</h4>
+<br />
+
+<p><i>Enter Priyamvad&aacute; and Anas&uacute;y&aacute; in the act of gathering flowers</i>.</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;Although, dear Priyamvad&aacute;, it rejoices my heart to think that
+&#346;akoontal&aacute; has been happily united to a husband in every respect worthy
+of her, by the form of marriage prevalent among Indra's celestial
+musicians, nevertheless, I cannot help feeling somewhat uneasy in my
+mind.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute;.&mdash;How so?</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;You know that the pious King was gratefully dismissed by the
+hermits on the successful termination of their sacrificial rites. He has
+now returned to his capital, leaving &#346;akoontal&aacute; under our care; and it
+may be doubted whether, in the society of his royal consorts, he will
+not forget all that has taken place in this hermitage of ours.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute;.&mdash;On that score be at ease. Persons of his noble nature are
+not so destitute of all honorable feeling. I confess, however, that
+there is one point about which I am rather anxious. What, think you,
+will father Kanwa say when he hears what has occurred?</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;In my opinion, he will approve the marriage.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute;.&mdash;What makes you think so?</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;From the first, it was always his fixed purpose to bestow the
+maiden on a husband worthy of her; and since heaven has given her such a
+husband, his wishes have been realized without any trouble to himself.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; [<i>looking at the flower-basket</i>].&mdash;We have gathered flowers
+enough for the sacred offering, dear Anas&uacute;y&aacute;.</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;Well, then, let us now gather more, that we may have wherewith
+to propitiate the guardian-deity of our dear &#346;akoontal&aacute;.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute;.&mdash;By all means. </p>         <span style='float: right;'>[<i>They continue gathering</i>.</ br></span>
+
+<p>A VOICE [<i>behind the scenes</i>].&mdash;Ho there! See you not that I am here?</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute; [<i>listening</i>].&mdash;That must be the voice of a guest announcing his
+arrival.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute;.&mdash;Surely, &#346;akoontal&aacute; is not absent from the cottage.
+[<i>Aside</i>.] Her heart at least is absent, I fear.</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;Come along, come along; we have gathered flowers enough.</p>
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>They move away</i>.</span><br />
+
+<p>THE SAME VOICE [<i>behind the scenes</i>].&mdash;Woe to thee, maiden, for daring
+to slight a guest like me!</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shall I stand here unwelcomed; even I,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A very mine of penitential merit,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Worthy of all respect? Shalt thou, rash maid,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus set at nought the ever sacred ties</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of hospitality? and fix thy thoughts</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upon the cherished object of thy love,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While I am present? Thus I curse thee, then&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He, even he of whom thou thinkest, he</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shall think no more of thee; nor in his heart</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Retain thine image. Vainly shalt thou strive</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To waken his remembrance of the past;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He shall disown thee, even as the sot,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Roused from his midnight drunkenness, denies</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The words he uttered in his revellings.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute;.&mdash;Alas! alas! I fear a terrible misfortune has occurred.
+&#346;akoontal&aacute;, from absence of mind, must have offended some guest whom she
+was bound to treat with respect. [<i>Looking behind the scenes</i>.] Ah! yes;
+I see, and no less a person than the great sage Durvasas, who is known
+to be most irascible. He it is that has just cursed her, and is now
+retiring with hasty strides, trembling with passion, and looking as if
+nothing could turn him. His wrath is like a consuming fire.</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;Go quickly, dear Priyamvad&aacute;, throw yourself at his feet, and
+persuade him to come back, while I prepare a propitiatory offering for
+him, with water and refreshments.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute;.&mdash;I will.</p>          <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exit.</i></span><br />
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute; [<i>advancing hastily a few steps and stumbling</i>].&mdash;Alas! alas!
+this comes of being in a hurry. My foot has slipped and my basket of
+flowers has fallen from my hand.<br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Stays to gather them up</i>.</span><br />
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; [<i>re&euml;ntering</i>].&mdash;Well, dear Anas&uacute;y&aacute;, I have done my best; but
+what living being could succeed in pacifying such a cross-grained,
+ill-tempered old fellow? However, I managed to mollify him a little.</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute; [<i>smiling</i>].&mdash;Even a little was much for him. Say on.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute;.&mdash;When he refused to turn back, I implored his forgiveness in
+these words: &quot;Most venerable sage, pardon, I beseech you, this first
+offence of a young and inexperienced girl, who was ignorant of the
+respect due to your saintly character and exalted rank.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;And what did he reply?</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute;.&mdash;&quot;My word must not be falsified; but at the sight of the
+ring of recognition the spell shall cease.&quot; So saying, he disappeared.</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;Oh! then we may breathe again; for now I think of it, the King
+himself, at his departure, fastened on &#346;akoontal&aacute;'s finger, as a token
+of remembrance, a ring on which his own name was engraved. She has,
+therefore, a remedy for her misfortune at her own command.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute;.&mdash;Come, dear Anas&uacute;y&aacute;, let us proceed with our religious
+duties.          <span style='float: right;'>[<i>They walk away</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; [<i>looking off the stage</i>].&mdash;See, Anas&uacute;y&aacute;, there sits our dear
+friend, motionless as a statue, resting her face on her left hand, her
+whole mind absorbed in thinking of her absent husband. She can pay no
+attention to herself, much less to a stranger.</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;Priyamvad&aacute;, let this affair never pass our lips. We must spare
+our dear friend's feelings. Her constitution is too delicate to bear
+much emotion.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute;.&mdash;I agree with you. Who would think of watering a tender
+jasmine with hot water?</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style='width: 65%;' />
+<a name='ACT_FOURTH'></a><h3>ACT FOURTH</h3>
+
+<h4>Scene.&mdash;The Neighborhood of the Hermitage</h4>
+<br />
+
+<p><i>Enter one of Kanwa's pupils, just arisen from his couch at the dawn of
+day</i>.</p>
+
+<p>PUPIL.&mdash;My master, the venerable Kanwa, who is but lately returned from
+his pilgrimage, has ordered me to ascertain how the time goes. I have
+therefore come into the open air to see if it be still dark. [<i>Walking
+and looking about</i>.] Oh! the dawn has already broken.</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lo! in one quarter of the sky, the Moon,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lord of the herbs and night-expanding flowers,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sinks towards his bed behind the western hills;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While in the east, preceded by the Dawn,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His blushing charioteer, the glorious Sun</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Begins his course, and far into the gloom</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Casts the first radiance of his orient beams,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hail! co-eternal orbs, that rise to set,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And set to rise again; symbols divine</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of man's reverses, life's vicissitudes.</span><br />
+</div><p>And now,<br /></p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While the round Moon withdraws his looming disc</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Beneath the western sky, the full-blown flower</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of the night-loving lotus sheds her leaves</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In sorrow for his loss, bequeathing nought</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But the sweet memory of her loveliness</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To my bereav&egrave;d sight: e'en as the bride</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Disconsolately mourns her absent lord,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And yields her heart a prey to anxious grief.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute; [<i>entering abruptly</i>].&mdash;Little as I know of the ways of the
+world, I cannot help thinking that King Dushyanta is treating &#346;akoontal&aacute;
+very improperly.</p>
+
+<p>PUPIL.&mdash;Well, I must let my revered preceptor know that it is time to
+offer the burnt oblation.          <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exit.</i></span></p><br />
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;I am broad awake, but what shall I do? I have no energy to go
+about my usual occupations. My hands and feet seem to have lost their
+power. Well, Love has gained his object; and Love only is to blame for
+having induced our dear friend, in the innocence of her heart, to
+confide in such a perfidious man. Possibly, however, the imprecation of
+Durvasas may be already taking effect. Indeed, I cannot otherwise
+account for the King's strange conduct, in allowing so long a time to
+elapse without even a letter; and that, too, after so many promises and
+protestations. I cannot think what to do, unless we send him the ring
+which was to be the token of recognition. But which of these austere
+hermits could we ask to be the bearer of it? Then, again, Father Kanwa
+has just returned from his pilgrimage: and how am I to inform him of
+&#346;akoontal&aacute;'s marriage to King Dushyanta, and her expectation of being
+soon a mother? I never could bring myself to tell him, even if I felt
+that &#346;akoontal&aacute; had been in fault, which she certainly has not. What is
+to be done?</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; [<i>entering; joyfully</i>].&mdash;Quick! quick! Anas&uacute;y&aacute;! come and
+assist in the joyful preparations for &#346;akoontal&aacute;'s departure to her
+husband's palace.</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;My dear girl, what can you mean?</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute;.&mdash;Listen, now, and I will tell you all about it. I went just
+now to &#346;akoontal&aacute;, to inquire whether she had slept comfortably&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;Well, well; go on.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute;.&mdash;She was sitting with her face bowed down to the very ground
+with shame, when Father Kanwa entered and, embracing her, of his own
+accord offered her his congratulations. &quot;I give thee joy, my child,&quot; he
+said, &quot;we have had an auspicious omen. The priest who offered the
+oblation dropped it into the very centre of the sacred fire, though
+thick smoke obstructed his vision. Henceforth thou wilt cease to be an
+object of compassion. This very day I purpose sending thee, under the
+charge of certain trusty hermits, to the King's palace; and shall
+deliver thee into the hands of thy husband, as I would commit knowledge
+to the keeping of a wise and faithful student.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;Who, then, informed the holy Father of what passed in his
+absence?</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute;.&mdash;As he was entering the sanctuary of the consecrated fire,
+an invisible being chanted a verse in celestial strains.</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute; [<i>with astonishment</i>].&mdash;Indeed! pray repeat it.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; [<i>repeats the verse</i>].&mdash;</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Glows in thy daughter King Dushyanta's glory,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>As in the sacred tree the mystic fire.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Let worlds rejoice to hear the welcome story;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And may the son immortalize the sire.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute; [<i>embracing Priyamvad&aacute;</i>].&mdash;Oh, my dear Priyamvad&aacute;, what
+delightful news! I am pleased beyond measure; yet when I think that we
+are to lose our dear &#346;akoontal&aacute; this very day, a feeling of melancholy
+mingles with my joy.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute;.&mdash;We shall find means of consoling ourselves after her
+departure. Let the dear creature only be made happy, at any cost.</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;Yes, yes, Priyamvad&aacute;, it shall be so; and now to prepare our
+bridal array. I have always looked forward to this occasion, and some
+time since, I deposited a beautiful garland of Ke&#347;ara flowers in a
+cocoa-nut box, and suspended it on a bough of yonder mango-tree. Be good
+enough to stretch out your hand and take it down, while I compound
+unguents and perfumes with this consecrated paste and these blades of
+sacred grass.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute;.&mdash;Very well.</ br>
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exit Anas&uacute;y&aacute;. Priyamvad&aacute; takes down the flowers.</i></span></p></ br>
+
+<p>A VOICE [<i>behind the scenes</i>].&mdash;Gautam&iacute;, bid &#346;&aacute;rngarava and the others
+hold themselves in readiness to escort &#346;akoontal&aacute;.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; [<i>listening</i>].&mdash;Quick, quick, Anas&uacute;y&aacute;! They are calling the
+hermits who are to go with &#346;akoontal&aacute; to Hastin&aacute;pur.</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute; [<i>re&euml;ntering, with the perfumed unguents in her hand</i>].&mdash;Come
+along then, Priyamvad&aacute;; I am ready to go with you. <span style='float: right;'>[<i>They walk away</i>.</span></p></ br>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; [<i>looking</i>].&mdash;See! there sits &#346;akoontal&aacute;, her locks arranged
+even at this early hour of the morning. The holy women of the hermitage
+are congratulating her, and invoking blessings on her head, while they
+present her with wedding-gifts and offerings of consecrated wild-rice.
+Let us join them.         <span style='float: right;'> [<i>They approach</i>.</span></p>
+
+<p><i>&#346;akoontal&aacute; is seen seated, with women surrounding her, occupied in the
+manner described</i>.</p>
+
+<p>FIRST WOMAN [<i>to &#346;akoontal&aacute;</i>].&mdash;My child, may'st thou receive the title
+of &quot;Chief-queen,&quot; and may thy husband delight to honor thee above all
+others!</p>
+
+<p>SECOND WOMAN.&mdash;My child, may'st thou be the mother of a hero!</p>
+
+<p>THIRD WOMAN.&mdash;My child, may'st thou be highly honored by thy lord!</p>
+
+<p>[<i>Exeunt all the women, excepting Gautam&iacute;, after blessing &#346;akoontal&aacute;.</i></p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; AND ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute; [<i>approaching</i>].&mdash;Dear &#346;akoontal&aacute;, we are come to
+assist you at your toilet, and may a blessing attend it!</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;Welcome, dear friends, welcome. Sit down here.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; AND ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute; [<i>taking the baskets containing the bridal
+decorations, and sitting down</i>].&mdash;Now, then, dearest, prepare to let us
+dress you. We must first rub your limbs with these perfumed unguents.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;I ought indeed to be grateful for your kind offices, now
+that I am so soon to be deprived of them. Dear, dear friends, perhaps I
+shall never be dressed by you again.          <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Bursts into tears</i>.</span></p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; AND ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;Weep not, dearest, tears are out of season on
+such a happy occasion.</p>
+
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>They wipe away her tears and begin to dress her</i>.</span><br />
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute;.&mdash;Alas! these simple flowers and rude ornaments which our
+hermitage offers in abundance, do not set off your beauty as it
+deserves.</p>
+
+<span style='float: right;'><i>Enter two young Hermits, bearing costly presents</i>.</span><br />
+
+<p>BOTH HERMITS.&mdash;Here are ornaments suitable for a queen.</p>
+
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>The women look at them in astonishment</i>.</span><br />
+
+<p>GAUTAM&Iacute;.&mdash;Why, N&aacute;rada, my son, whence came these?</p>
+
+<p>FIRST HERMIT.&mdash;You owe them to the devotion of Father Kanwa.</p>
+
+<p>GAUTAM&Iacute;.&mdash;Did he create them by the power of his own mind?</p>
+
+<p>SECOND HERMIT.&mdash;Certainly not; but you shall hear. The venerable sage
+ordered us to collect flowers for &#346;akoontal&aacute; from the forest-trees; and
+we went to the wood for that purpose, when</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Straightway depending from a neighboring tree</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Appeared a robe of linen tissue, pure</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And spotless as a moon-beam&mdash;mystic pledge</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of bridal happiness; another tree</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Distilled a roseate dye wherewith to stain</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The lady's feet; and other branches near</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Glistened with rare and costly ornaments.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While, 'midst the leaves, the hands of forest-nymphs,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vying in beauty with the opening buds,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Presented us with sylvan offerings.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; [<i>looking at &#346;akoontal&aacute;</i>].&mdash;The wood-nymphs have done you
+honor, indeed. This favor doubtless signifies that you are soon to be
+received as a happy wife into your husband's house, and are from this
+forward to become the partner of his royal fortunes.<br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>&#346;akoontal&aacute; appears confused</i>.</span><br />
+
+<p>FIRST HERMIT.&mdash;Come, Gautama; Father Kanwa has finished his ablutions.
+Let us go and inform him of the favor we have received from the deities
+who preside over our trees.</p>
+
+<p>SECOND HERMIT.&mdash;By all means.          <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exeunt.</i></span></p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; AND ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;Alas! what are we to do? We are unused to such
+splendid decorations, and are at a loss how to arrange them. Our
+knowledge of painting must be our guide. We will dispose the ornaments
+as we have seen them in pictures.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;Whatever pleases you, dear girls, will please me. I have
+perfect confidence in your taste. <span style='float: right;'>[<i>They commence dressing her</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p><span style='float: right;'><i>Enter Kanwa, having just finished his ablutions</i>.</span><br /></p>
+
+<p>KANWA.&mdash;This day my loved one leaves me, and my heart</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is heavy with its grief: the streams of sorrow</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Choked at the source, repress my faltering voice.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I have no words to speak; mine eyes are dimmed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By the dark shadows of the thoughts that rise</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Within my soul. If such the force of grief</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In an old hermit parted from his nursling,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What anguish must the stricken parent feel&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bereft forever of an only daughter?</span><br />
+</div><p><span style='float: right;'>[<i>Advances towards &#346;akoontal&aacute;</i></span></p><br />
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; AND ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;Now, dearest &#346;akoontal&aacute;, we have finished
+decorating you. You have only to put on the two linen mantles.
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>&#346;akoontal&aacute; rises and puts them on</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>GAUTAM&Iacute;.&mdash;Daughter, see, here comes thy foster-father; he is eager to
+fold thee in his arms; his eyes swim with tears of joy. Hasten to do him
+reverence.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>reverently</i>].&mdash;My father, I salute you.</p>
+
+<p>KANWA.&mdash;My daughter,</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>May'st thou be highly honored by thy lord,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>E'en as Yay&aacute;ti &#346;armishth&aacute; adored!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, as she bore him Puru; so may'st thou</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bring forth a son to whom the world shall bow!</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>GAUTAM&Iacute;.&mdash;Most venerable father, she accepts your benediction as if she
+already possessed the boon it confers.</p>
+
+<p>KANWA.&mdash;Now come this way, my child, and walk reverently round these
+sacrificial fires.          <span style='float: right;'>[<i>They all walk round</i>.</span></p>
+
+<p>KANWA [<i>repeats a prayer in the metre of the Rig-veda</i>].&mdash;<br /></p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Holy flames, that gleam around</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Every altar's hallowed ground;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Holy flames, whose frequent food</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is the consecrated wood,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And for whose encircling bed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sacred Ku&#347;a-grass is spread;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Holy flames, that waft to heaven</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sweet oblations daily given,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Mortal guilt to purge away;&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hear, oh hear me, when I pray&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Purify my child this day!</span><br /></div>
+<p>Now then, my daughter, set out on thy journey. [<i>Looking on one side</i>.]
+Where are thy attendants, &#346;&aacute;rngarava and the others?</p>
+
+<p>YOUNG HERMIT [<i>entering</i>].&mdash;Here we are, most venerable father.</p>
+
+<p>KANWA.&mdash;Lead the way for thy sister.</p>
+
+<p>S&Aacute;RNGARAVA.&mdash;Come, &#346;akoontal&aacute;, let us proceed.<br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>All move away</i>.</span><br /></p>
+
+<p>KANWA.&mdash;Hear me, ye trees that surround our hermitage!<br /></p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&#346;akoontal&aacute; ne'er moistened in the stream</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her own parched lips, till she had fondly poured</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Its purest water on your thirsty roots;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And oft, when she would fain have decked her hair</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With your thick-clustering blossoms, in her love</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She robbed you not e'en of a single flower.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her highest joy was ever to behold</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The early glory of your opening buds:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Oh, then, dismiss her with a kind farewell!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This very day she quits her father's home,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To seek the palace of her wedded lord.</span><br />
+</div><p><span style='float: right;'>[<i>The note of a K&ouml;il is heard</i>.</span><br /></p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hark! heard'st thou not the answer of the trees,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Our sylvan sisters, warbled in the note</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of the melodious K&ouml;il? they dismiss</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their dear &#346;akoontal&aacute; with loving wishes.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>VOICES [<i>in the air</i>].&mdash;<br /></p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fare thee well, journey pleasantly on amid streams</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where the lotuses bloom, and the sun's glowing beams</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Never pierce the deep shade of the wide-spreading trees,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While gently around thee shall sport the cool breeze;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then light be thy footsteps and easy thy tread,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Beneath thee shall carpets of lilies be spread.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Journey on to thy lord, let thy spirit be gay,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For the smiles of all Nature shall gladden thy way.</span><br />
+</div><p><span style='float: right;'>[<i>All listen with astonishment</i>.</span><br /></p>
+
+<p>GAUTAM&Iacute;.&mdash;Daughter! the nymphs of the wood, who love thee with the
+affection of a sister, dismiss thee with kind wishes for thy happiness.
+Take thou leave of them reverentially.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>bowing respectfully and walking on. Aside to her
+friend</i>].&mdash;Eager as I am, dear Priyamvad&aacute;, to see my husband once more,
+yet my feet refuse to move, now that I am quitting forever the home of
+my girlhood.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute;.&mdash;You are not the only one, dearest, to feel the bitterness
+of parting. As the time of separation approaches, the whole grove seems
+to share your anguish.<br /></p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In sorrow for thy loss, the herd of deer</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Forget to browse; the peacock on the lawn</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ceases its dance; the very trees around us</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shed their pale leaves, like tears, upon the ground.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>recollecting herself</i>].&mdash;My father, let me, before I go,
+bid adieu to my pet jasmine, the Moonlight of the Grove. I love the
+plant almost as a sister.</p>
+
+<p>KANWA.&mdash;Yes, yes, my child, I remember thy sisterly affection for the
+creeper. Here it is on the right.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>approaching the jasmine</i>],&mdash;My beloved jasmine, most
+brilliant of climbing plants, how sweet it is to see thee cling thus
+fondly to thy husband, the mango-tree; yet, prithee, turn thy twining
+arms for a moment in this direction to embrace thy sister; she is going
+far away, and may never see thee again.</p>
+
+<p>KANWA.&mdash;Daughter, the cherished purpose of my heart<br /></p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Has ever been to wed thee to a spouse</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That should be worthy of thee; such a spouse</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hast thou thyself, by thine own merits, won.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To him thou goest, and about his neck</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Soon shalt thou cling confidingly, as now</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy favorite jasmine twines its loving arms</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Around the sturdy mango. Leave thou it</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To its protector&mdash;e'en as I consign</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thee to thy lord, and henceforth from my mind</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Banish all anxious thought on thy behalf.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>Proceed on thy journey, my child.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>to Priyamvad&aacute; and Anas&uacute;y&aacute;</i>].&mdash;To you, my sweet companions,
+I leave it as a keepsake. Take charge of it when I am gone.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; AND ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute; [<i>bursting into tears</i>].&mdash;And to whose charge do
+you leave us, dearest? Who will care for us when you are gone?</p>
+
+<p>KANWA.&mdash;For shame, Anas&uacute;y&aacute;! dry your tears. Is this the way to cheer
+your friend at a time when she needs your support and consolation?<br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>All move on</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;My father, see you there my pet deer, grazing close to the
+hermitage? She expects soon to fawn, and even now the weight of the
+little one she carries hinders her movements. Do not forget to send me
+word when she becomes a mother.</p>
+
+<p>KANWA.&mdash;I will not forget it.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>feeling herself drawn back</i>].&mdash;What can this be, fastened
+to my dress?         <span style='float: right;'> [<i>Turns round</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>KANWA.&mdash;My daughter,</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>It is the little fawn, thy foster-child.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Poor helpless orphan! it remembers well</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How with a mother's tenderness and love</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou didst protect it, and with grains of rice</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From thine own hand didst daily nourish it;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, ever and anon, when some sharp thorn</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Had pierced its mouth, how gently thou didst tend</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The bleeding wound, and pour in healing balm.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The grateful nursling clings to its protectress,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Mutely imploring leave to follow her.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;My poor little fawn, dost thou ask to follow an unhappy
+woman who hesitates not to desert her companions? When thy mother died,
+soon after thy birth, I supplied her place, and reared thee with my own
+hand; and now that thy second mother is about to leave thee, who will
+care for thee? My father, be thou a mother to her. My child, go back,
+and be a daughter to my father.          <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Moves on, weeping</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>KANWA.&mdash;Weep not, my daughter, check the gathering tear</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That lurks beneath thine eyelid, ere it flow</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And weaken thy resolve; be firm and true&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>True to thyself and me; the path of life</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Will lead o'er hill and plain, o'er rough and smooth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And all must feel the steepness of the way;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Though rugged be thy course, press boldly on.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>S&Aacute;RNGARAVA.&mdash;Venerable sire! the sacred precept is&mdash;&quot;Accompany thy
+friend as far as the margin of the first stream.&quot; Here then, we are
+arrived at the border of a lake. It is time for you to give us your
+final instructions and return.</p>
+
+<p>KANWA.&mdash;Be it so; let us tarry for a moment under the shade of this
+fig-tree.          <span style='float: right;'>[<i>They do so</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>KANWA [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;I must think of some appropriate message to send to
+his majesty King Dushyanta.          <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Reflects.</i></span></p><br />
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>aside to Anas&uacute;y&aacute;</i>].&mdash;See, see, dear Anas&uacute;y&aacute;, the poor
+female Chakrav&aacute;ka-bird, whom cruel fate dooms to nightly separation
+from her mate, calls to him in mournful notes from the other side of the
+stream, though he is only hidden from her view by the spreading leaves
+of the water-lily. Her cry is so piteous that I could almost fancy she
+was lamenting her hard lot in intelligible words.</p>
+
+<p>ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;Say not so, dearest.</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fond bird! though sorrow lengthen out her night</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of widowhood, yet with a cry of joy</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She hails the morning light that brings her mate</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Back to her side. The agony of parting</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Would wound us like a sword, but that its edge</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is blunted by the hope of future meeting.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>KANWA.&mdash;&#346;&aacute;rngarava, when you have introduced &#346;akoontal&aacute; into the
+presence of the King, you must give him this message from me.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;&Aacute;RNGARAVA.&mdash;Let me hear it, venerable father.</p>
+
+<p>KANWA.&mdash;This is it&mdash;</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Most puissant prince! we here present before thee</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One thou art bound to cherish and receive</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As thine own wife; yea, even to enthrone</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As thine own queen&mdash;worthy of equal love</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With thine imperial consorts. So much, Sire,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>We claim of thee as justice due to us,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In virtue of our holy character&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In virtue of thine honorable rank&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In virtue of the pure spontaneous love</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That secretly grew up 'twixt thee and her,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Without consent or privity of us.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>We ask no more&mdash;the rest we freely leave</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To thy just feeling and to destiny.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>&#346;&Aacute;RNGARAVA.&mdash;A most suitable message. I will take care to deliver it
+correctly.</p>
+
+<p>KANWA.&mdash;And now, my child, a few words of advice for thee. We hermits,
+though we live secluded from the world, are not ignorant of worldly
+matters.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;&Aacute;RNGARAVA.&mdash;No, indeed. Wise men are conversant with all subjects.</p>
+
+<p>KANWA.&mdash;Listen, then, my daughter. When thou reachest thy husband's
+palace, and art admitted into his family,</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Honor thy betters; ever be respectful</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To those above thee; and, should others share</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy husband's love, ne'er yield thyself a prey</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To jealousy; but ever be a friend,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A loving friend, to those who rival thee</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In his affections. Should thy wedded lord</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Treat thee with harshness, thou must never be</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Harsh in return, but patient and submissive.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Be to thy menials courteous, and to all</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Placed under thee, considerate and kind:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Be never self-indulgent, but avoid</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Excess in pleasure; and, when fortune smiles,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Be not puffed up. Thus to thy husband's house</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wilt thou a blessing prove, and not a curse.</span><br />
+</div><p>What thinks Gautam&iacute; of this advice?</p>
+
+<p>GAUTAM&Iacute;.&mdash;An excellent compendium, truly, of every wife's duties! Lay it
+well to heart, my daughter.</p>
+
+<p>KANWA.&mdash;Come, my beloved child, one parting embrace for me and for thy
+companions, and then we leave thee.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;My father, must Priyamvad&aacute; and Anas&uacute;y&aacute; really return with
+you? They are very dear to me.</p>
+
+<p>KANWA.&mdash;Yes, my child; they, too, in good time, will be given in
+marriage to suitable husbands. It would not be proper for them to
+accompany thee to such a public place. But Gautam&iacute; shall be thy
+companion.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>embracing him</i>].&mdash;Removed from thy bosom, my beloved
+father, like a young tendril of the sandal-tree torn from its home in
+the western mountains,<a name="FNanchor40"></a><a href="#Footnote_40"><sup>[40]</sup></a> how shall I be able to support life in a
+foreign soil?</p>
+
+<p>KANWA.&mdash;Daughter, thy fears are groundless:&mdash;</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Soon shall thy lord prefer thee to the rank</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of his own consort; and unnumbered cares</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Befitting his imperial dignity</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shall constantly engross thee. Then the bliss</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of bearing him a son&mdash;a noble boy,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bright as the day-star&mdash;shall transport thy soul</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With new delights, and little shalt thou reck</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of the light sorrow that afflicts thee now</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>At parting from thy father and thy friends.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p><span style='float: right;'>[<i>&#346;akoontal&aacute; throws herself at her foster-father's feet</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>KANWA.&mdash;Blessings on thee, my child! May all my hopes of thee be
+realized!</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>approaching her friends</i>].&mdash;Come, my two loved companions,
+embrace me&mdash;both of you together.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; AND ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute; [<i>embracing her</i>].&mdash;Dear &#346;akoontal&aacute;, remember, if
+the King should by any chance be slow in recognizing you, you have only
+to show him this ring, on which his own name is engraved.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;The bare thought of it puts me in a tremor.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; AND ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;There is no real cause for fear, dearest.
+Excessive affection is too apt to suspect evil where none exists.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;&Aacute;RNGARAVA.&mdash;Come, lady, we must hasten on. The sun is rising in the
+heavens.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>looking towards the hermitage</i>].&mdash;Dear father, when shall I
+ever see this hallowed grove again?</p>
+
+<p>KANWA.&mdash;I will tell thee; listen&mdash;</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When thou hast passed a long and blissful life</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As King Dushyanta's queen, and jointly shared</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With all the earth his ever-watchful care;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And hast beheld thine own heroic son,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Matchless in arms, united to a spouse</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In happy wedlock; when his aged sire,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy faithful husband, hath to him resigned</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The helm of state; then, weary of the world,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Together with Dushyanta thou shalt seek</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The calm seclusion of thy former home:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>There amid holy scenes to be at peace,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Till thy pure spirit gain its last release.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>GAUTAM&Iacute;.&mdash;Come, my child, the favorable time for our journey is fast
+passing. Let thy father return. Venerable Sire, be thou the first to
+move homewards, or these last words will never end.</p>
+
+<p>KANWA.&mdash;Daughter, detain me no longer. My religious duties must not be
+interrupted.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>again embracing her foster-father</i>].&mdash;Beloved father, thy
+frame is much enfeebled by penitential exercises. Do not, oh! do not,
+allow thyself to sorrow too much on my account.</p>
+
+<p>KANWA [<i>sighing</i>].&mdash;How, O my child, shall my bereav&egrave;d heart</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Forget its bitterness, when, day by day,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Full in my sight shall grow the tender plants</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Reared by thy care, or sprung from hallowed grain</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which thy loved hands have strewn around the door&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A frequent offering to our household gods?</span><br />
+</div><p>Go, my daughter, and may thy journey be prosperous.</p>
+
+<p><span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exit &#346;akoontal&aacute; with her escort</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; AND ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute; [<i>gazing after &#346;akoontal&aacute;</i>].&mdash;Alas! alas! she is
+gone, and now the trees hide our darling from our view.</p>
+
+<p>KANWA [<i>sighing</i>].&mdash;Well, Anas&uacute;y&aacute;, your sister has departed. Moderate
+your grief, both of you, and follow me. I go back to the hermitage.</p>
+
+<p>PRIYAMVAD&Aacute; AND ANAS&Uacute;Y&Aacute;.&mdash;Holy father, the sacred grove will be a desert
+without &#346;akoontal&aacute;. How can we ever return to it?</p>
+
+<p>KANWA.&mdash;It is natural enough that your affection should make you view it
+in this light. [<i>Walking pensively on</i>.] As for me, I am quite surprised
+at myself. Now that I have fairly dismissed her to her husband's house,
+my mind is easy: for indeed,</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A daughter is a loan&mdash;a precious jewel</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lent to a parent till her husband claim her.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And now that to her rightful lord and master</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I have delivered her, my burdened soul</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is lightened, and I seem to breathe more freely.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p><span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exeunt.</i></span></p><br />
+
+
+
+<hr style='width: 65%;' />
+<a name='ACT_FIFTH'></a><h3>ACT FIFTH</h3>
+
+<h4>Scene.&mdash;A Room in the Palace</h4>
+<br />
+
+<p><i>The King Dushyanta and the Jester M&aacute;thavya are discovered seated</i>.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA [<i>listening</i>].&mdash;Hark! my dear friend, listen a minute, and you
+will hear sweet sounds proceeding from the music-room. Someone is
+singing a charming air. Who can it be? Oh! I know. The queen Hansapadik&aacute;
+is practising her notes, that she may greet you with a new song.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Hush! Let me listen.</p>
+
+<p>A VOICE [<i>sings behind the scenes</i>].&mdash;</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How often hither didst thou rove,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sweet bee, to kiss the mango's cheek;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Oh! leave not, then, thy early love,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The lily's honeyed lip to seek.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>KING.&mdash;A most impassioned strain, truly!</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;Do you understand the meaning of the words?</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>smiling</i>].&mdash;She means to reprove me, because I once paid her
+great attention, and have lately deserted her for the queen Vasumat&iacute;.
+Go, my dear fellow, and tell Hansapadik&aacute; from me that I take her
+delicate reproof as it is intended.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;Very well. [<i>Rising from his seat</i>.] But stay&mdash;I don't much
+relish being sent to bear the brunt of her jealousy. The chances are
+that she will have me seized by the hair of the head and beaten to a
+jelly. I would as soon expose myself, after a vow of celibacy, to the
+seductions of a lovely nymph, as encounter the fury of a jealous woman.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Go, go; you can disarm her wrath by a civil speech; but give her
+my message.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;What must be must be, I suppose.         <span style='float: right;'> [<i>Exit.</i></span></p><br />
+
+<p>KING [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;Strange! that song has filled me with a most peculiar
+sensation. A melancholy feeling has come over me, and I seem to yearn
+after some long-forgotten object of affection. Singular, indeed! but,
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Not seldom in our happy hours of ease,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When thought is still, the sight of some fair form,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or mournful fall of music breathing low,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Will stir strange fancies, thrilling all the soul</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With a mysterious sadness, and a sense</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of vague yet earnest longing. Can it be</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That the dim memory of events long past,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or friendships formed in other states of being,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Flits like a passing shadow o'er the spirit?</span><br />
+</div><p>
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Remains pensive and sad</i>.<br />
+<i>Enter the Chamberlain</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+
+<p>CHAMBERLAIN.&mdash;Alas! to what an advanced period of life have I attained!</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Even this wand betrays the lapse of years;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In youthful days 'twas but a useless badge</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And symbol of my office; now it serves</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As a support to prop my tottering steps.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Ah me! I feel very unwilling to announce to the King that a deputation
+of young hermits from the sage Kanwa has arrived, and craves an
+immediate audience. Certainly, his majesty ought not to neglect a matter
+of sacred duty, yet I hardly like to trouble him when he has just risen
+from the judgment-seat. Well, well; a monarch's business is to sustain
+the world, and he must not expect much repose; because&mdash;</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Onward, forever onward, in his car</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The unwearied Sun pursues his daily course,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor tarries to unyoke his glittering steeds.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And ever moving speeds the rushing Wind</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Through boundless space, filling the universe</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With his life-giving breezes. Day and night,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The King of Serpents on his thousand heads</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upholds the incumbent earth; and even so,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unceasing toil is aye the lot of kings,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who, in return, draw nurture from their subjects.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>I will therefore deliver my message. [<i>Walking on and looking about</i>.]
+Ah! here comes the King:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His subjects are his children; through the day,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like a fond father, to supply their wants,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Incessantly he labors; wearied now,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The monarch seeks seclusion and repose&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>E'en as the prince of elephants defies</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The sun's fierce heat, and leads the fainting herd</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To verdant pastures, ere his wayworn limbs</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He yields to rest beneath the cooling shade.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>[<i>Approaching</i>.] Victory to the King! So please your majesty, some
+hermits who live in a forest near the Snowy Mountains have arrived here,
+bringing certain women with them. They have a message to deliver from
+the sage Kanwa, and desire an audience. I await your Majesty's commands.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>respectfully</i>].&mdash;A message from the sage Kanwa, did you say?</p>
+
+<p>CHAMBERLAIN.&mdash;Even so, my liege.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Tell my domestic priest, Somar&aacute;ta, to receive the hermits with
+due honor, according to the prescribed form. He may then himself
+introduce them into my presence. I will await them in a place suitable
+for the reception of such holy guests.</p>
+
+<p>CHAMBERLAIN.&mdash;Your Majesty's commands shall be obeyed. <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exit.</i></span></p><br />
+
+<p>KING [<i>rising and addressing the Warder</i>].&mdash;Vetravat&iacute;, lead the way to
+the chamber of the consecrated fire.</p>
+
+<p>WARDER.&mdash;This way, Sire.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>walking on, with the air of one oppressed by the cares of
+government</i>].&mdash;People are generally contented and happy when they have
+gained their desires; but kings have no sooner attained the object of
+their aspirations than all their troubles begin.</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Tis a fond thought that to attain the end</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And object of ambition is to rest;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Success doth only mitigate the fever</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of anxious expectation; soon the fear</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of losing what we have, the constant care</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of guarding it doth weary. Ceaseless toil</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Must be the lot of him who with his hands</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Supports the canopy that shields his subjects.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>Two HERALDS [<i>behind the scenes</i>].&mdash;May the King be victorious!</p>
+
+<p>FIRST HERALD.&mdash;Honor to him who labors day by day</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For the world's weal, forgetful of his own.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like some tall tree that with its stately head</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Endures the solar beam, while underneath</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>It yields refreshing shelter to the weary.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>SECOND HERALD.&mdash;Let but the monarch wield his threatening rod</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And e'en the guilty tremble; at his voice</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The rebel spirit cowers; his grateful subjects</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Acknowledge him their guardian; rich and poor</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hail him a faithful friend, a loving kinsman.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>KING.&mdash;Weary as I was before, this complimentary address has refreshed
+me.          <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Walks on</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>WARDER.&mdash;Here is the terrace of the hallowed fire-chamber, and yonder
+stands the cow that yields the milk for the oblations. The sacred
+enclosure has been recently purified, and looks clean and beautiful.
+Ascend, Sire.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>leans on the shoulders of his attendants, and ascends</i>].
+Vetravat&iacute;, what can possibly be the message that the venerable Kanwa has
+sent me by these hermits?&mdash;</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Perchance their sacred rites have been disturbed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By demons, or some evil has befallen</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The innocent herds, their favorites, that graze</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Within the precincts of the hermitage;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or haply, through my sins, some withering blight</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Has nipped the creeping plants that spread their arms</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Around the hallowed grove. Such troubled thoughts</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Crowd through my mind, and fill me with misgiving.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>WARDER.&mdash;If you ask my opinion, Sire, I think the hermits merely wish to
+take an opportunity of testifying their loyalty, and are therefore come
+to offer homage to your Majesty.</p>
+
+<p><i>Enter the Hermits, leading &#346;akoontal&aacute;, attended by Gautam&iacute;; and, in
+advance of them, the Chamberlain and the domestic Priest.</i></p>
+
+<p>CHAMBERLAIN.&mdash;This way, reverend sirs, this way.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;&Aacute;RNGARAVA.&mdash;O &#346;&aacute;radwata,</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Tis true the monarch lacks no royal grace,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor ever swerves from justice; true, his people,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yea such as in life's humblest walks are found,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Refrain from evil courses; still to me,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A lonely hermit reared in solitude,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This throng appears bewildering, and methinks</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I look upon a burning house, whose inmates</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Are running to and fro in wild dismay.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>S&Aacute;RADWATA.&mdash;It is natural that the first sight of the King's capital
+should affect you in this manner; my own sensations are very similar.</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As one just bathed beholds the man polluted;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As one late purified, the yet impure:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As one awake looks on the yet unwakened;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or as the freeman gazes on the thrall,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So I regard this crowd of pleasure-seekers.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>feeling a quivering sensation in her right eyelid, and
+suspecting a bad omen</i>],&mdash;Alas! what means this throbbing of my right
+eyelid?</p>
+
+<p>GAUTAM&Iacute;.&mdash;Heaven avert the evil omen, my child! May the guardian deities
+of thy husband's family convert it into a sign of good fortune!<span style='float: right;'> [<i>Walks
+on</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>PRIEST [<i>pointing to the King</i>].&mdash;Most reverend sirs, there stands the
+protector of the four classes of the people; the guardian of the four
+orders of the priesthood. He has just left the judgment-seat, and is
+waiting for you. Behold him!</p>
+
+<p>&#346;&Aacute;RNGARAVA.&mdash;Great Br&aacute;hman, we are happy in thinking that the King's
+power is exerted for the protection of all classes of his subjects. We
+have not come as petitioners&mdash;we have the fullest confidence in the
+generosity of his nature.</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The loftiest trees bend humbly to the ground</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Beneath the teeming burden of their fruit;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>High in the vernal sky the pregnant clouds</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Suspend their stately course, and hanging low,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Scatter their sparkling treasures o'er the earth:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And such is true benevolence; the good</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Are never rendered arrogant by riches.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>WARDER.&mdash;So please your Majesty, I judge from the placid countenance of
+the hermits that they have no alarming message to deliver.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>looking at &#346;akoontal&aacute;</i>].&mdash;But the lady there&mdash;</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who can she be, whose form of matchless grace</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is half concealed beneath her flowing veil?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Among the sombre hermits she appears</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like a fresh bud 'mid sear and yellow leaves.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>WARDER.&mdash;So please your Majesty, my curiosity is also roused, but no
+conjecture occurs to my mind. This at least is certain, that she
+deserves to be looked at more closely.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;True; but it is not right to gaze at another man's wife.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>placing her hand on her bosom. Aside</i>].&mdash;O my heart, why
+this throbbing? Remember thy lord's affection, and take courage.</p>
+
+<p>PRIEST [<i>advancing</i>].&mdash;These holy men have been received with all due
+honor. One of them has now a message to deliver from his spiritual
+superior. Will your Majesty deign to hear it?</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;I am all attention.</p>
+
+<p>HERMITS [<i>extending their hands</i>].&mdash;Victory to the King!</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Accept my respectful greeting.</p>
+
+<p>HERMITS.&mdash;May the desires of your soul be accomplished!</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;I trust no one is molesting you in the prosecution of your
+religious rites.</p>
+
+<p>HERMITS.&mdash;Who dares disturb our penitential rites</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When thou art our protector? Can the night</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Prevail to cast her shadows o'er the earth</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While the sun's beams irradiate the sky?</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Such, indeed, is the very meaning of my title&mdash;&quot;Defender of the
+Just.&quot; I trust the venerable Kanwa is in good health. The world is
+interested in his well-being.</p>
+
+<p>HERMITS.&mdash;Holy men have health and prosperity in their own power. He
+bade us greet your Majesty, and, after kind inquiries, deliver this
+message.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Let me hear his commands.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;&Aacute;RNGARAVA.&mdash;He bade us say that he feels happy in giving his sanction
+to the marriage which your Majesty contracted with this lady, his
+daughter, privately and by mutual agreement. Because</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By us thou art esteemed the most illustrious</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of noble husbands; and &#346;akoontal&aacute;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Virtue herself in human form revealed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Great Brahm&aacute; hath in equal yoke united</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A bride unto a husband worthy of her:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Henceforth let none make blasphemous complaint</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That he is pleased with ill-assorted unions.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>Since, therefore, she expects soon to be the mother of thy child,
+receive her into thy palace, that she may perform, in conjunction with
+thee, the ceremonies prescribed by religion on such an occasion.</p>
+
+<p>GAUTAM&Iacute;.&mdash;So please your Majesty, I would add a few words: but why
+should I intrude my sentiments when an opportunity of speaking my mind
+has never been allowed me?</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She took no counsel with her kindred; thou</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Didst not confer with thine, but all alone</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Didst solemnize thy nuptials with thy wife.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Together, then, hold converse; let us leave you.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;Ah! how I tremble for my lord's reply.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;What strange proposal is this?</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;His words are fire to me.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;&Aacute;RNGARAVA.&mdash;What do I hear? Dost thou, then, hesitate? Monarch, thou
+art well acquainted with the ways of the world, and knowest that</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A wife, however virtuous and discreet,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If she live separate from her wedded lord,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Though under shelter of her parent's roof,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is mark for vile suspicion. Let her dwell</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Beside her husband, though he hold her not</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In his affection. So her kinsmen will it.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>KING.&mdash;Do you really mean to assert that I ever married this lady?</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>despondingly. Aside</i>].&mdash;O my heart, thy worst misgivings
+are confirmed.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;&Aacute;RNGARAVA.&mdash;Is it becoming in a monarch to depart from the rules of
+justice, because he repents of his engagements?</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;I cannot answer a question which is based on a mere fabrication.</p>
+
+<p>S&Aacute;RNGARAVA.&mdash;Such inconstancy is fortunately not common, excepting in
+men intoxicated by power.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Is that remark aimed at me?</p>
+
+<p>GAUTAM&Iacute;.&mdash;Be not ashamed, my daughter. Let me remove thy veil for a
+little space. Thy husband will then recognize thee. <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Removes her veil</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>KING [<i>gazing at &#346;akoontal&aacute;. Aside</i>].&mdash;What charms are here revealed
+before mine eyes!
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Truly no blemish mars the symmetry</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of that fair form; yet can I ne'er believe</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She is my wedded wife; and like a bee</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That circles round the flower whose nectared cup</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Teems with the dew of morning, I must pause</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ere eagerly I taste the proffered sweetness.</span><br />
+</div><p><span style='float: right;'>[<i>Remains wrapped in thought.</i></span></p><br />
+
+<p>WARDER.&mdash;How admirably does our royal master's behavior prove his regard
+for justice! Who else would hesitate for a moment when good fortune
+offered for his acceptance a form of such rare beauty?</p>
+
+<p>S&Aacute;RNGARAVA.&mdash;Great King, why art thou silent?</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Holy men, I have revolved the matter in my mind; but the more I
+think of it, the less able am I to recollect that I ever contracted an
+alliance with this lady. What answer, then, can I possibly give you when
+I do not believe myself to be her husband, and I plainly see that she is
+soon to become a mother?</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;Woe! woe! Is our very marriage to be called in
+question by my own husband? Ah me! is this to be the end of all my
+bright visions of wedded happiness?</p>
+
+<p>&#346;&Aacute;RNGARAVA.&mdash;Beware!</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Beware how thou insult the holy Sage!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Remember how he generously allowed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy secret union with his foster-child;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And how, when thou didst rob him of his treasure,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He sought to furnish thee excuse, when rather</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He should have cursed thee for a ravisher.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>&#346;&Aacute;RADWATA.&mdash;&#346;&aacute;rngarava, speak to him no more. &#346;akoontal&aacute;, our part is
+performed; we have said all we had to say, and the King has replied in
+the manner thou hast heard. It is now thy turn to give him convincing
+evidence of thy marriage.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;Since his feeling towards me has undergone a
+complete revolution, what will it avail to revive old recollections? One
+thing is clear&mdash;I shall soon have to mourn my own widowhood. [<i>Aloud</i>.]
+My revered husband&mdash;[<i>Stops short</i>.] But no&mdash;I dare not address thee by
+this title, since thou hast refused to acknowledge our union. Noble
+descendant of Puru! It is not worthy of thee to betray an
+innocent-minded girl, and disown her in such terms, after having so
+lately and so solemnly plighted thy vows to her in the hermitage.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>stopping his ears</i>].&mdash;I will hear no more. Be such a crime far
+from my thoughts!</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What evil spirit can possess thee, lady,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That thou dost seek to sully my good name</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By base aspersions? like a swollen torrent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That, leaping from its narrow bed, overthrows</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The tree upon its bank, and strives to blend</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Its turbid waters with the crystal stream?</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;If, then, thou really believest me to be the wife of
+another, and thy present conduct proceeds from some cloud that obscures
+thy recollection, I will easily convince thee by this token.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;An excellent idea!</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>feeling for the ring</i>].&mdash;Alas! alas! woe is me! There is no
+ring on my finger!<br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Looks with anguish at Gautam&iacute;</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>GAUTAM&Iacute;.&mdash;The ring must have slipped off when thou wast in the act of
+offering homage to the holy water of &#346;ach&iacute;'s sacred pool, near
+&#346;akr&aacute;vat&aacute;ra.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>smiling</i>].&mdash;People may well talk of the readiness of woman's
+invention! Here is an instance of it.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;Say, rather, of the omnipotence of fate. I will mention
+another circumstance, which may yet convince thee.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;By all means let me hear it at once.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;One day, while we were seated in a jasmine bower, thou
+didst pour into the hollow of thine hand some water, sprinkled by a
+recent shower in the cup of a lotus blossom&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;I am listening; proceed.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;At that instant, my adopted child, the little fawn, with
+soft, long eyes, came running towards us. Upon which, before tasting the
+water thyself, thou didst kindly offer some to the little creature,
+saying fondly&mdash;&quot;Drink first, gentle fawn.&quot; But she could not be induced
+to drink from the hand of a stranger; though immediately afterwards,
+when I took the water in my own hand, she drank with perfect confidence.
+Then, with a smile, thou didst say&mdash;&quot;Every creature confides naturally
+in its own kind. You are both inhabitants of the same forest, and have
+learnt to trust each other.&quot;</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Voluptuaries may allow themselves to be seduced from the path of
+duty by falsehoods such as these, expressed in honeyed words.</p>
+
+<p>GAUTAM&Iacute;.&mdash;Speak not thus, illustrious Prince. This lady was brought up
+in a hermitage, and has never learnt deceit.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Holy matron,</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>E'en in untutored brutes, the female sex</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is marked by inborn subtlety&mdash;much more</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In beings gifted with intelligence.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The wily K&ouml;il, ere towards the sky</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She wings her sportive flight, commits her eggs</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To other nests, and artfully consigns</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The rearing of her little ones to strangers.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>angrily</i>].&mdash;Dishonorable man, thou judgest of others by
+thine own evil heart. Thou, at least, art unrivalled in perfidy, and
+standest alone&mdash;a base deceiver in the garb of virtue and religion&mdash;like
+a deep pit whose yawning mouth is concealed by smiling flowers.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;Her anger, at any rate, appears genuine, and makes me
+almost doubt whether I am in the right. For, indeed,</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When I had vainly searched my memory,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And so with stern severity denied</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The fabled story of our secret loves,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her brows, that met before in graceful curves,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like the arched weapon of the god of love,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Seemed by her frown dissevered; while the fire</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of sudden anger kindled in her eyes.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>[<i>Aloud</i>.] My good lady, Dushyanta's character is well-known to all. I
+comprehend not your meaning.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;Well do I deserve to be thought a harlot for having, in the
+innocence of my heart, and out of the confidence I reposed in a Prince
+of Puru's race, intrusted my honor to a man whose mouth distils honey,
+while his heart is full of poison.<br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Covers her face with her mantle, and bursts into tears</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>&#346;&Aacute;RNGARAVA.&mdash;Thus is it that burning remorse must ever follow rash
+actions which might have been avoided, and for which one has only one's
+self to blame.</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Not hastily should marriage be contracted,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And specially in secret. Many a time,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In hearts that know not each the other's fancies,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fond love is changed into most bitter hate.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;How now! Do you give credence to this woman rather than to me,
+that you heap such accusations on me?</p>
+
+<p>&#346;&Aacute;RNGARAVA [<i>sarcastically</i>].&mdash;That would be too absurd, certainly. You
+have heard the proverb&mdash;</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hold in contempt the innocent words of those</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who from their infancy have known no guile:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But trust the treacherous counsels of the man</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who makes a very science of deceit.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>KING.&mdash;Most veracious Br&aacute;hman, grant that you are in the right, what end
+would be gained by betraying this lady?</p>
+
+<p>&#346;&Aacute;RNGARAVA.&mdash;Ruin.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;No one will believe that a Prince of Puru's race would seek to
+ruin others or himself.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;&Aacute;RADWATA.&mdash;This altercation is idle, &#346;&aacute;rngarava. We have executed the
+commission of our preceptor; come, let us return. <span style='float: right;'>[<i>To the King</i>.</span></p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&#346;akoontal&aacute; is certainly thy bride;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Receive her or reject her, she is thine.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Do with her, King, according to thy pleasure&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The husband o'er the wife is absolute.</span><br />
+</div><p>Go on before us, Gautam&iacute;.         <span style='float: right;'> [<i>They move away</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;What! is it not enough to have been betrayed by this
+perfidious man? Must you also forsake me, regardless of my tears and
+lamentations?<br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Attempts to follow them</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>GAUTAM&Iacute; [<i>stopping</i>].&mdash;My son &#346;&aacute;rngarava, see, &#346;akoontal&aacute; is following
+us, and with tears implores us not to leave her. Alas! poor child, what
+will she do here with a cruel husband who casts her from him?</p>
+
+<p>&#346;&Aacute;RNGARAVA [<i>turning angrily towards her</i>].&mdash;Wilful woman, dost thou
+seek to be independent of thy lord?<br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>&#346;akoontal&aacute; trembles with fear</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>&#346;&Aacute;RNGARAVA.&mdash;&#346;akoontal&aacute;!</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If thou art really what the King proclaims thee,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How can thy father e'er receive thee back</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Into his house and home? but, if thy conscience</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Be witness to thy purity of soul,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>E'en should thy husband to a handmaid's lot</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Condemn thee, thou may'st cheerfully endure it,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When ranked among the number of his household.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>Thy duty, therefore, is to stay. As for us, we must return immediately.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Deceive not the lady, my good hermit, by any such expectations.</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The moon expands the lotus of the night,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The rising sun awakes the lily; each</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is with his own contented. Even so</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The virtuous man is master of his passions,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And from another's wife averts his gaze.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>&#346;&Aacute;RNGARAVA.&mdash;Since thy union with another woman has rendered thee
+oblivious of thy marriage with &#346;akoontal&aacute;, whence this fear of losing
+thy character for constancy and virtue?</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>to the Priest</i>],&mdash;You must counsel me, revered sir, as to my
+course of action. Which of the two evils involves the greater or less
+sin?</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whether by some dark veil my mind be clouded,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or this designing woman speak untruly,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I know not. Tell me, must I rather be</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The base disowner of my wedded wife,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or the defiling and defiled adulterer?</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>PRIEST [<i>after deliberation</i>].&mdash;You must take an intermediate course.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;What course, revered sir? Tell me at once.</p>
+
+<p>PRIEST.&mdash;I will provide an asylum for the lady in my own house until the
+birth of her child; and my reason, if you ask me, is this. Soothsayers
+have predicted that your first-born will have universal dominion. Now,
+if the hermit's daughter bring forth a son with the discus or mark of
+empire in the lines of his hand, you must admit her immediately into
+your royal apartments with great rejoicings; if not, then determine to
+send her back as soon as possible to her father.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;I bow to the decision of my spiritual adviser.</p>
+
+<p>PRIEST.&mdash;Daughter, follow me.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;O divine earth, open and receive me into thy bosom!</p>
+
+<p>[<i>Exit &#346;akoontal&aacute; weeping, with the Priest and the Hermits. The King
+remains absorbed in thinking of her, though the curse still clouds his
+recollection</i>.</p>
+
+<p>A VOICE [<i>behind the scenes</i>].&mdash;A miracle! a miracle!</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>listening</i>].&mdash;What has happened now?</p>
+
+<p>PRIEST [<i>entering with an air of astonishment</i>].&mdash;Great Prince, a
+stupendous prodigy has just occurred!</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;What is it?</p>
+
+<p>PRIEST.&mdash;May it please your Majesty, so soon as Kanwa's pupils had
+departed,</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&#346;akoontal&aacute;, her eyes all bathed in tears,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With outstretched arms bewailed her cruel fate&mdash;</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Well, well, what happened then?</p>
+
+<p>PRIEST.&mdash;When suddenly a shining apparition, In female shape, descended
+from the skies, Near the nymphs' pool, and bore her up to heaven.
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>All remain motionless with astonishment</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;My good priest, from the very first I declined having anything to
+do with this matter. It is now all over, and we can never, by our
+conjectures, unravel the mystery; let it rest; go, seek repose.</p>
+
+<p>PRIEST [<i>looking at the King</i>].&mdash;Be it so. Victory to the King! <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exit.</i></span></p><br />
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Vetravat&iacute;, I am tired out; lead the way to the bed-chamber.</p>
+
+<p>WARDER.&mdash;This way, Sire. <span style='float: right;'>[<i>They move away</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Do what I will, I cannot call to mind</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That I did e'er espouse the sage's daughter&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Therefore I have disowned her; yet 'tis strange</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How painfully my agitated heart</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bears witness to the truth of her assertion,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And makes me credit her against my judgment.</span><br />
+</div><p><span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exeunt.</i></span></p><br />
+
+
+
+<hr style='width: 65%;' />
+<a name='PRELUDE_TO_ACT_SIXTH'></a><h3>PRELUDE TO ACT SIXTH</h3>
+
+<h4>Scene.&mdash;A Street</h4>
+<br />
+
+<p><i>Enter the King's brother-in-law as Superintendent of the city police;
+and with him two Constables, dragging a poor fisherman, who has his
+hands tied behind his back</i>.</p>
+
+<p>BOTH THE CONSTABLES [<i>striking the prisoner</i>].&mdash;Take that for a rascally
+thief that you are; and now tell us, sirrah, where you found this
+ring&mdash;aye, the King's own signet-ring. See, here is the royal name
+engraved on the setting of the jewel.</p>
+
+<p>FISHERMAN [<i>with a gesture of alarm</i>].&mdash;Mercy! kind sirs, mercy! I did
+not steal it; indeed I did not.</p>
+
+<p>FIRST CONSTABLE.&mdash;Oh! then I suppose the King took you for some fine
+Br&aacute;hman, and made you a present of it?</p>
+
+<p>FISHERMAN.&mdash;Only hear me. I am but a poor fisherman, living at
+&#346;akr&aacute;vat&aacute;ra&mdash;&mdash;&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>SECOND CONSTABLE.&mdash;Scoundrel, who ever asked you, pray, for a history of
+your birth and parentage?</p>
+
+<p>SUPERINTENDENT [<i>to one of the Constables</i>].&mdash;S&uacute;chaka, let the fellow
+tell his own story from the beginning. Don't interrupt him.</p>
+
+<p>BOTH CONSTABLES.&mdash;As you please, master. Go on, then, sirrah, and say
+what you've got to say.</p>
+
+<p>FISHERMAN.&mdash;You see in me a poor man, who supports his family by
+catching fish with nets, hooks, and the like.</p>
+
+<p>SUPERINTENDENT [<i>laughing</i>].&mdash;A most refined occupation, certainly!</p>
+
+<p>FISHERMAN.&mdash;Blame me not for it, master.</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The father's occupation, though despised</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By others, casts no shame upon the son,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And he should not forsake it. Is the priest</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who kills the animal for sacrifice</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Therefore deemed cruel? Sure a lowborn man</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>May, though a fisherman, be tender-hearted.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>SUPERINTENDENT.&mdash;Well, well; go on with your story.</p>
+
+<p>FISHERMAN.&mdash;One day I was cutting open a large carp I had just hooked,
+when the sparkle of a jewel caught my eye, and what should I find in the
+fish's maw but that ring! Soon afterwards, when I was offering it for
+sale, I was seized by your honors. Now you know everything. Whether you
+kill me, or whether you let me go, this is the true account of how the
+ring came into my possession.</p>
+
+<p>SUPERINTENDENT [<i>to one of the Constables</i>].&mdash;Well, J&aacute;nuka, the rascal
+emits such a fishy odor that I have no doubt of his being a fisherman;
+but we must inquire a little more closely into this queer story about
+the finding of the ring. Come, we'll take him before the King's
+household.</p>
+
+<p>BOTH CONSTABLES.&mdash;Very good, master. Get on with you, you cutpurse.<br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>All move on</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>SUPERINTENDENT.&mdash;Now attend, S&uacute;chaka; keep you guard here at the gate;
+and hark ye, sirrahs, take good care your prisoner does not escape,
+while I go in and lay the whole story of the discovery of this ring
+before the King in person. I will soon return and let you know his
+commands.</p>
+
+<p>CONSTABLE.&mdash;Go in, master, by all means; and may you find favor in the
+King's sight!<br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exit Superintendent</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>FIRST CONSTABLE [<i>after an interval</i>].&mdash;I say, J&aacute;nuka, the
+Superintendent is a long time away.</p>
+
+<p>SECOND CONSTABLE.&mdash;Aye, aye; kings are not to be got at so easily. Folks
+must bide the proper opportunity.</p>
+
+<p>FIRST CONSTABLE.&mdash;J&aacute;nuka, my fingers itch to strike the first blow at
+this royal victim here. We must kill him with all the honors, you know.
+I long to begin binding the flowers round his head.<br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Pretends to strike a blow at the fisherman</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>FISHERMAN.&mdash;Your honor surely will not put an innocent man to a cruel
+death.</p>
+
+<p>SECOND CONSTABLE [<i>looking</i>].&mdash;There's our Superintendent at last, I
+declare. See, he is coming towards us with a paper in his hand. We shall
+soon know the King's command; so prepare, my fine fellow, either to
+become food for the vultures, or to make acquaintance with some hungry
+cur.</p>
+
+<p>SUPERINTENDENT [<i>entering</i>].&mdash;Ho, there, S&uacute;chaka! set the fisherman at
+liberty, I tell you. His story about the ring is all correct.</p>
+
+<p>S&Uacute;CHAKA.&mdash;Oh! very good, sir; as you please.</p>
+
+<p>SECOND CONSTABLE.&mdash;The fellow had one foot in hell, and now here he is
+in the land of the living.          <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Releases him</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>FISHERMAN [<i>bowing to the Superintendent</i>].&mdash;Now, master, what think you
+of my way of getting a livelihood?</p>
+
+<p>SUPERINTENDENT.&mdash;Here, my good man, the King desired me to present you
+with this purse. It contains a sum of money equal to the full value of
+the ring.<br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Gives him the money</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>FISHERMAN [<i>taking it and bowing</i>].&mdash;His Majesty does me too great
+honor.</p>
+
+<p>S&Uacute;CHAKA.&mdash;You may well say so. He might as well have taken you from the
+gallows to seat you on his state elephant.</p>
+
+<p>J&Aacute;NUKA.&mdash;Master, the King must value the ring very highly, or he would
+never have sent such a sum of money to this ragamuffin.</p>
+
+<p>SUPERINTENDENT.&mdash;I don't think he prizes it as a costly jewel so much as
+a memorial of some person he tenderly loves. The moment it was shown to
+him he became much agitated, though in general he conceals his feelings.</p>
+
+<p>S&Uacute;CHAKA.&mdash;Then you must have done a great service&mdash;&mdash;&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>J&Aacute;NUKA.&mdash;Yes, to this husband of a fish-wife.<br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Looks enviously at the fisherman</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>FISHERMAN.&mdash;Here's half the money for you, my masters. It will serve to
+purchase the flowers you spoke of, if not to buy me your good-will.</p>
+
+<p>J&Aacute;NUKA.&mdash;Well, now, that's just as it should be.</p>
+
+<p>SUPERINTENDENT.&mdash;My good fisherman, you are an excellent fellow, and I
+begin to feel quite a regard for you. Let us seal our first friendship
+over a glass of good liquor. Come along to the next wine-shop and we'll
+drink your health.</p>
+
+<p>ALL.&mdash;By all means.
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exeunt.</i></span></p><br />
+
+
+
+
+<hr style='width: 65%;' />
+<a name='ACT_SIXTH'></a><h3>ACT SIXTH</h3>
+
+<h4>Scene.&mdash;The Garden of the Palace</h4>
+<br />
+
+<p><i>The nymph S&aacute;numat&iacute; is seen descending in a celestial car</i>.</p>
+
+<p>S&Aacute;NUMAT&Iacute;.&mdash;Behold me just arrived from attending in my proper turn at
+the nymphs' pool, where I have left the other nymphs to perform their
+ablutions, whilst I seek to ascertain, with my own eyes, how it fares
+with King Dushyanta. My connection with the nymph Menak&aacute; has made her
+daughter &#346;akoontal&aacute; dearer to me than my own flesh and blood; and Menak&aacute;
+it was who charged me with this errand on her daughter's behalf.
+[<i>Looking round in all directions</i>.] How is it that I see no
+preparations in the King's household for celebrating the great vernal
+festival? I could easily discover the reason by my divine faculty of
+meditation; but respect must be shown to the wishes of my friend. How
+then shall I arrive at the truth? I know what I will do. I will become
+invisible, and place myself near those two maidens who are tending the
+plants in the garden.          <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Descends and takes her station</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p><i>Enter a Maiden, who stops in front of a mango-tree and gazes at the
+blossom. Another Maiden is seen behind her</i>.</p>
+
+<p>FIRST MAIDEN.&mdash;Hail to thee, lovely harbinger of spring! The varied
+radiance of thy opening flowers Is welcome to my sight. I bid thee hail,
+Sweet mango, soul of this enchanting season.</p>
+
+<p>SECOND MAIDEN.&mdash;Parabaitik&aacute;, what are you saying there to yourself?</p>
+
+<p>FIRST MAIDEN.&mdash;Dear Madhukarik&aacute;, am I not named after the K&ouml;il?<a name="FNanchor41"></a><a href="#Footnote_41"><sup>[41]</sup></a> and
+does not the K&ouml;il sing for joy at the first appearance of the
+mango-blossom?</p>
+
+<p>SECOND MAIDEN [<i>approaching hastily, with transport</i>].&mdash;What! is spring
+really come?</p>
+
+<p>FIRST MAIDEN.&mdash;Yes, indeed, Madhukarik&aacute;, and with it the season of joy,
+love, and song.</p>
+
+<p>SECOND MAIDEN.&mdash;Let me lean upon you, dear, while I stand on tip-toe and
+pluck a blossom of the mango, that I may present it as an offering to
+the god of love.</p>
+
+<p>FIRST MAIDEN.&mdash;Provided you let me have half the reward which the god
+will bestow in return.</p>
+
+<p>SECOND MAIDEN.&mdash;To be sure you shall, and that without asking. Are we
+not one in heart and soul, though divided in body? [<i>Leans on her friend
+and plucks a mango-blossom.</i>] Ah! here is a bud just bursting into
+flower. It diffuses a delicious perfume, though not yet quite expanded.
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Joining her hands reverentially</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>God of the bow, who with spring's choicest flowers</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Dost point thy five unerring shafts; to thee</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I dedicate this blossom; let it serve</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To barb thy truest arrow; be its mark</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Some youthful heart that pines to be beloved.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p><span style='float: right;'>[<i>Throws down a mango-blossom.</i></span></p><br />
+
+<p>CHAMBERLAIN [<i>entering in a hurried manner, angrily</i>].&mdash;Hold there,
+thoughtless woman. What are you about breaking off those mango-blossoms,
+when the King has forbidden the celebration of the spring festival?</p>
+
+<p>BOTH MAIDENS [<i>alarmed</i>].&mdash;Pardon us, kind sir, we have heard nothing of
+it.</p>
+
+<p>CHAMBERLAIN.&mdash;You have heard nothing of it? Why, all the vernal plants
+and shrubs, and the very birds that lodge in their branches, show more
+respect to the King's order than you do.</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yon mango-blossoms, though long since expanded,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gather no down upon their tender crests;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The flower still lingers in the amaranth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Imprisoned in its bud; the tuneful K&ouml;il,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Though winter's chilly dews be overpast,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Suspends the liquid volume of his song</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Scarce uttered in his throat; e'en Love, dismayed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Restores the half-drawn arrow to his quiver.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>BOTH MAIDENS.&mdash;The mighty power of King Dushyanta is not to be disputed.</p>
+
+<p>FIRST MAIDEN.&mdash;It is but a few days since Mitr&aacute;vasu, the king's
+brother-in-law, sent us to wait upon his Majesty; and, during the whole
+of our sojourn here, we have been intrusted with the charge of the royal
+pleasure-grounds. We are therefore strangers in this place, and heard
+nothing of the order until you informed us of it.</p>
+
+<p>CHAMBERLAIN.&mdash;Well then, now you know it, take care you don't continue
+your preparations.</p>
+
+<p>BOTH MAIDENS.&mdash;But tell us, kind sir, why has the King prohibited the
+usual festivities? We are curious to hear, if we may.</p>
+
+<p>S&Aacute;NUMAT&Iacute; [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;Men are naturally fond of festive entertainments.
+There must be some good reason for the prohibition.</p>
+
+<p>CHAMBERLAIN.&mdash;The whole affair is now public; why should I not speak of
+it! Has not the gossip about the King's rejection of &#346;akoontal&aacute; reached
+your ears yet?</p>
+
+<p>BOTH MAIDENS.&mdash;Oh yes, we heard the story from the King's
+brother-in-law, as far, at least, as the discovery of the ring.</p>
+
+<p>CHAMBERLAIN.&mdash;Then there is little more to tell you. As soon as the
+King's memory was restored by the sight of his own ring, he exclaimed,
+&quot;Yes, it is all true. I remember now my secret marriage with &#346;akoontal&aacute;.
+When I repudiated her, I had lost my recollection.&quot; Ever since that
+moment, he has yielded himself a prey to the bitterest remorse.</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He loathes his former pleasures; he rejects</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The daily homage of his ministers.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On his lone couch he tosses to and fro,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Courting repose in vain. Whene'er he meets</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The ladies of his palace, and would fain</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Address them with politeness, he confounds</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their names; or, calling them &quot;&#346;akoontal&aacute;,&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is straightway silent and abashed with shame.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>S&Aacute;NUMAT&Iacute; [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;To me this account is delightful.</p>
+
+<p>CHAMBERLAIN.&mdash;In short, the King is so completely out of his mind that
+the festival has been prohibited.</p>
+
+<p>BOTH MAIDENS.&mdash;Perfectly right.</p>
+
+<p>A VOICE [<i>behind the scenes</i>].&mdash;The King! the King! This way, Sire, this
+way.</p>
+
+<p>CHAMBERLAIN [<i>listening</i>].&mdash;Oh! here comes his majesty in this
+direction. Pass on, maidens; attend to your duties.</p>
+
+<p>BOTH MAIDENS.&mdash;We will, sir. <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exeunt.</i></span></p><br />
+
+<p><i>Enter King Dushyanta, dressed in deep mourning, attended by his Jester,
+M&aacute;thavya, and preceded by Vetravat&iacute;.</i></p>
+
+<p>CHAMBERLAIN [<i>gazing at the King</i>].&mdash;Well, noble forms are certainly
+pleasing, under all varieties of outward circumstances. The King's
+person is as charming as ever, notwithstanding his sorrow of mind.</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Though but a single golden bracelet spans</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His wasted arm; though costly ornaments</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Have given place to penitential weeds;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Though oft-repeated sighs have blanched his lips,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And robbed them of their bloom; though sleepless care</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And carking thought have dimmed his beaming eye;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yet does his form, by its inherent lustre,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Dazzle the gaze; and, like a priceless gem</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Committed to some cunning polisher,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Grow more effulgent by the loss of substance.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>S&Aacute;NUMAT&Iacute; [<i>aside. Looking at the King</i>].&mdash;Now that I have seen him, I
+can well understand why &#346;akoontal&aacute; should pine after such a man, in
+spite of his disdainful rejection of her.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>walking slowly up and down, in deep thought</i>].&mdash;</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When fatal lethargy overwhelmed my soul,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My loved one strove to rouse me, but in vain:&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And now when I would fain in slumber deep</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Forget myself, full soon remorse doth wake me.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>S&Aacute;NUMAT&Iacute; [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;My poor &#346;akoontal&aacute;'s sufferings are very similar.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;He is taken with another attack of this odious
+&#346;akoontal&aacute; fever. How shall we ever cure him?</p>
+
+<p>CHAMBERLAIN [<i>approaching</i>].&mdash;Victory to the King! Great Prince, the
+royal pleasure-grounds have been put in order. Your Majesty can resort
+to them for exercise and amusement whenever you think proper.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Vetravat&iacute;, tell the worthy Pi&#347;una, my prime minister, from me,
+that I am so exhausted by want of sleep that I cannot sit on the
+judgment-seat to-day. If any case of importance be brought before the
+tribunal he must give it his best attention, and inform me of the
+circumstances by letter.</p>
+
+<p>VETRAVAT&Iacute;.&mdash;Your Majesty's commands shall be obeyed. <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exit.</i></span></p><br />
+
+<p>KING [<i>to the Chamberlain</i>].&mdash;And you, V&aacute;t&aacute;yana, may go about your own
+affairs.</p>
+
+<p>CHAMBERLAIN.&mdash;I will, Sire. <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exit.</i></span></p><br />
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;Now that you have rid yourself of these troublesome fellows,
+you can enjoy the delightful coolness of your pleasure-grounds without
+interruption.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Ah! my dear friend, there is an old adage&mdash;&quot;When affliction has a
+mind to enter, she will find a crevice somewhere&quot;&mdash;and it is verified in
+me.</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Scarce is my soul delivered from the cloud</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That darkened its remembrance of the past,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When lo! the heart-born deity of love</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With yonder blossom of the mango barbs</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His keenest shaft, and aims it at my breast.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;Well, then, wait a moment; I will soon demolish Master K&aacute;ma's
+arrow with a cut of my cane.
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Raises his stick and strikes off the mango-blossom.</i></span></p><br />
+
+<p>KING [<i>smiling</i>].&mdash;That will do. I see very well the god of Love is not
+a match for a Br&aacute;hman. And now, my dear friend, where shall I sit down,
+that I may enchant my sight by gazing on the twining plants, which seem
+to remind me of the graceful shape of my beloved?</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;Do you not remember? you told Chaturik&aacute; you should pass the
+heat of the day in the jasmine bower; and commanded her to bring the
+likeness of your queen &#346;akoontal&aacute;, sketched with your own hand.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;True. The sight of her picture will refresh my soul. Lead the way
+to the arbor.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;This way, Sire.
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Both move on, followed by S&aacute;numat&iacute;.</i></span></p><br />
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;Here we are at the jasmine bower. Look, it has a marble seat,
+and seems to bid us welcome with its offerings of delicious flowers. You
+have only to enter and sit down. <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Both enter and seat themselves.</i></span></p><br />
+
+<p>S&Aacute;NUMAT&Iacute; [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;I will lean against these young jasmines. I can
+easily, from behind them, glance at my friend's picture, and will then
+hasten to inform her of her husband's ardent affection.
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Stands leaning against the creepers</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Oh! my dear friend, how vividly all the circumstances of my union
+with &#346;akoontal&aacute; present themselves to my recollection at this moment!
+But tell me now how it was that, between the time of my leaving her in
+the hermitage and my subsequent rejection of her, you never breathed her
+name to me! True, you were not by my side when I disowned her; but I had
+confided to you the story of my love and you were acquainted with every
+particular. Did it pass out of your mind as it did out of mine?</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;No, no; trust me for that. But, if you remember, when you had
+finished telling me about it, you added that I was not to take the story
+in earnest, for that you were not really in love with a country girl,
+but were only jesting; and I was dull and thick-headed enough to believe
+you. But so fate decreed, and there is no help for it.</p>
+
+<p>S&Aacute;NUMAT&Iacute; [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;Exactly.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>after deep thought</i>].&mdash;My dear friend, suggest some relief for my
+misery.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;Come, come, cheer up; why do you give way? Such weakness is
+unworthy of you. Great men never surrender themselves to uncontrolled
+grief. Do not mountains remain unshaken even in a gale of wind?</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;How can I be otherwise than inconsolable, when I call to mind the
+agonized demeanor of the dear one on the occasion of my disowning her?</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When cruelly I spurned her from my presence,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She fain had left me; but the young recluse,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Stern as the Sage, and with authority</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As from his saintly master, in a voice</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That brooked not contradiction, bade her stay.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then through her pleading eyes, bedimmed with tears,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She cast on me one long reproachful look,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which like a poisoned shaft torments me still.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>S&Aacute;NUMAT&Iacute; [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;Alas! such is the force of self-reproach following
+a rash action. But his anguish only rejoices me.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;An idea has just struck me. I should not wonder if some
+celestial being had carried her off to heaven.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Very likely. Who else would have dared to lay a
+finger on a wife, the idol of her husband? It is said that Menak&aacute;, the
+nymph of heaven, gave her birth. The suspicion has certainly crossed my
+mind that some of her celestial companions may have taken her to their
+own abode.</p>
+
+<p>S&Aacute;NUMAT&Iacute; [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;His present recollection of every circumstance of
+her history does not surprise me so much as his former forgetfulness.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;If that's the case, you will be certain to meet her before
+long.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Why?</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;No father and mother can endure to see a daughter suffering
+the pain of separation from her husband.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Oh! my dear M&aacute;thavya,</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was it a dream? or did some magic dire,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Dulling my senses with a strange delusion,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Overcome my spirit? or did destiny,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Jealous of my good actions, mar their fruit,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And rob me of their guerdon? It is past,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whatever the spell that bound me. Once again</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Am I awake, but only to behold</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The precipice o'er which my hopes have fallen.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;Do not despair in this manner. Is not this very ring a proof
+that what has been lost may be unexpectedly found?</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>gazing at the ring</i>].&mdash;Ah! this ring, too, has fallen from a
+station which it will not easily regain, and deserves all my sympathy.</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>O gem, deserved the punishment we suffer,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And equal is the merit of our works,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When such our common doom. Thou didst enjoy</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The thrilling contact of those slender fingers,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bright as the dawn; and now how changed thy lot!</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>S&Aacute;NUMAT&Iacute; [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;Had it found its way to the hand of any other
+person, then indeed its fate would have been deplorable.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;Pray, how did the ring ever come upon her hand at all?</p>
+
+<p>S&Aacute;NUMAT&Iacute;.&mdash;I myself am curious to know.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;You shall hear. When I was leaving my beloved &#346;akoontal&aacute; that I
+might return to my own capital, she said to me, with tears in her eyes,
+&quot;How long will it be ere my lord send for me to his palace and make me
+his queen?&quot;</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;Well, what was your reply?</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Then I placed the ring on her finger, and thus addressed her&mdash;</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Repeat each day one letter of the name</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Engraven on this gem; ere thou hast reckoned</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The tale of syllables, my minister</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shall come to lead thee to thy husband's palace.</span><br />
+</div><p>But, hard-hearted man that I was, I forgot to fulfil my promise, owing
+to the infatuation that took possession of me.</p>
+
+<p>S&Aacute;NUMAT&Iacute; [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;A pleasant arrangement! Fate, however, ordained
+that the appointment should not be kept.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;But how did the ring contrive to pass into the stomach of
+that carp which the fisherman caught and was cutting up?</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;It must have slipped from my &#346;akoontal&aacute;'s hand, and fallen into
+the stream of the Ganges, while she was offering homage to the water of
+Sach&iacute;'s holy pool.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;Very likely.</p>
+
+<p>S&Aacute;NUMAT&Iacute; [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;Hence it happened, I suppose, that the King, always
+fearful of committing the least injustice, came to doubt his marriage
+with my poor &#346;akoontal&aacute;. But why should affection so strong as his stand
+in need of any token of recognition?</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Let me now address a few words of reproof to this ring.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;He is going stark mad, I verily believe.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Hear me, thou dull and undiscerning bauble!</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For so it argues thee, that thou couldst leave</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The slender fingers of her hand, to sink</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Beneath the waters. Yet what marvel is it</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That thou shouldst lack discernment? let me rather</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Heap curses on myself, who, though endowed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With reason, yet rejected her I loved.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;And so, I suppose, I must stand here to be devoured
+by hunger, whilst he goes on in this sentimental strain.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;O forsaken one, unjustly banished from my presence, take pity on
+thy slave, whose heart is consumed by the fire of remorse, and return to
+my sight.</p>
+
+<p><i>Enter Chaturik&aacute; hurriedly, with a picture in her hand</i>.</p>
+
+<p>CHATURIK&Aacute;.&mdash;Here is the Queen's portrait. <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Shows the picture</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;Excellent, my dear friend, excellent! The imitation of nature
+is perfect, and the attitude of the figures is really charming. They
+stand out in such bold relief that the eye is quite deceived.</p>
+
+<p>S&Aacute;NUMAT&Iacute; [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;A most artistic performance! I admire the King's
+skill, and could almost believe that &#346;akoontal&aacute; herself was before me.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;I own 'tis not amiss, though it portrays</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But feebly her angelic loveliness.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Aught less than perfect is depicted falsely,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And fancy must supply the imperfection.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>S&Aacute;NUMAT&Iacute; [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;A very just remark from a modest man, whose
+affection is exaggerated by the keenness of his remorse.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;Tell me&mdash;I see three female figures drawn on the canvas, and
+all of them beautiful; which of the three is her Majesty, &#346;akoontal&aacute;?</p>
+
+<p>S&Aacute;NUMAT&Iacute; [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;If he cannot distinguish her from the others, the
+simpleton might as well have no eyes in his head.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Which should you imagine to be intended for her?</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;She who is leaning, apparently a little tired, against the
+stem of that mango-tree, the tender leaves of which glitter with the
+water she has poured upon them. Her arms are gracefully extended; her
+face is somewhat flushed with the heat; and a few flowers have escaped
+from her hair, which has become unfastened, and hangs in loose tresses
+about her neck. That must be the queen &#346;akoontal&aacute;, and the others, I
+presume, are her two attendants.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;I congratulate you on your discernment. Behold the proof of my
+passion;</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My finger, burning with the glow of love,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Has left its impress on the painted tablet;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While here and there, alas! a scalding tear</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Has fallen on the cheek and dimmed its brightness.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Chaturik&aacute;, the garden in the background of the picture is</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>only half-painted. Go, fetch the brush that I may finish it.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>CHATURIK&Aacute;.&mdash;Worthy M&aacute;thavya, have the kindness to hold the picture until
+I return.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Nay, I will hold it myself.<br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Takes the picture. Exit Chaturik&aacute;</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;My loved one came but lately to my presence</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And offered me herself, but in my folly</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I spurned the gift, and now I fondly cling</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To her mere image; even as a madman</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Would pass the waters of the gushing stream,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thirst for airy vapors of the desert.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;He has been fool enough to forego the reality for
+the semblance, the substance for the shadow. [<i>Aloud.</i>] Tell us, I pray,
+what else remains to be painted.</p>
+
+<p>S&Aacute;NUMAT&Iacute; [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;He longs, no doubt, to delineate some favorite spot
+where my dear &#346;akoontal&aacute; delighted to ramble.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;You shall hear&mdash;&mdash;&mdash;</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I wish to see the M&aacute;lin&iacute; portrayed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Its tranquil course by banks of sand impeded&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upon the brink a pair of swans: beyond,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hills adjacent to Him&aacute;laya,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Studded with deer; and, near the spreading shade</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of some large tree, where 'mid the branches hang</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hermits' vests of bark, a tender doe,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rubbing its downy forehead on the horn</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of a black antelope, should be depicted.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;Pooh! if I were he, I would fill up the vacant
+spaces with a lot of grizzly-bearded old hermits.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;My dear M&aacute;thavya, there is still a part of &#346;akoontal&aacute;'s dress
+which I purposed to draw, but find I have omitted.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;What is that?</p>
+
+<p>S&Aacute;NUMAT&Iacute; [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;Something suitable, I suppose, to the simple attire
+of a young and beautiful girl dwelling in a forest.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;A sweet &#346;ir&iacute;sha blossom should be twined</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Behind her ear, its perfumed crest depending</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Towards her cheek; and, resting on her bosom,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A lotus-fibre necklace, soft and bright</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As an autumnal moon-beam, should be traced.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;Pray, why does the Queen cover her lips with the tips of her
+fingers, bright as the blossom of a lily, as if she were afraid of
+something? [<i>Looking more closely</i>.] Oh! I see; a vagabond bee, intent
+on thieving the honey of flowers, has mistaken her mouth for a rose-bud,
+and is trying to settle upon it.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;A bee! drive off the impudent insect, will you?</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;That's your business. Your royal prerogative gives you power
+over all offenders.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Very true. Listen to me, thou favorite guest of flowering plants;
+why give thyself the trouble of hovering here? See where thy partner
+sits on yonder flower, And waits for thee ere she will sip its dew.</p>
+
+<p>S&Aacute;NUMAT&Iacute; [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;A most polite way of warning him off!</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;You'll find the obstinate creature is not to be sent about
+his business so easily as you think.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Dost thou presume to disobey? Now hear me&mdash;</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>An thou but touch the lips of my beloved,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sweet as the opening blossom, whence I quaffed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In happier days love's nectar, I will place thee</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Within the hollow of yon lotus cup,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And there imprison thee for thy presumption.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;He must be bold indeed not to show any fear when you threaten
+him with such an awful punishment. [<i>Smiling, aside</i>.] He is stark mad,
+that's clear; and I believe, by keeping him company, I am beginning to
+talk almost as wildly. [<i>Aloud</i>.] Look, it is only a painted bee.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Painted? impossible!</p>
+
+<p>S&Aacute;NUMAT&Iacute; [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;Even I did not perceive it; how much less should
+he?</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Oh! my dear friend, why were you so ill-natured as to tell me the
+truth?</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While, all entranced, I gazed upon her picture,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My loved one seemed to live before my eyes,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Till every fibre of my being thrilled</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With rapturous emotion. Oh! 'twas cruel</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To dissipate the day-dream, and transform</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The blissful vision to a lifeless image.</span><br />
+</div><p><span style='float: right;'>[<i>Sheds tears</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>S&Aacute;NUMAT&Iacute; [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;Separated lovers are very difficult to please; but
+he seems more difficult than usual.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Alas! my dear M&aacute;thavya, why am I doomed to be the victim of
+perpetual disappointment?</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vain is the hope of meeting her in dreams,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For slumber night by night forsakes my couch:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And now that I would fain assuage my grief</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By gazing on her portrait here before me,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Tears of despairing love obscure my sight.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>S&Aacute;NUMAT&Iacute; [<i>aside</i>],&mdash;You have made ample amends for the wrong you did
+&#346;akoontal&aacute; in disowning her.</p>
+
+<p>CHATURIK&Aacute; [<i>entering</i>].&mdash;Victory to the King! I was coming along with
+the box of colors in my hand&mdash;&mdash;&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;What now?</p>
+
+<p>CHATURIK&Aacute;.&mdash;When I met the Queen Vasumat&iacute;, attended by Taralik&aacute;. She
+insisted on taking it from me, and declared she would herself deliver it
+into your Majesty's hands.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;By what luck did you contrive to escape her?</p>
+
+<p>CHATURIK&Aacute;.&mdash;While her maid was disengaging her mantle, which had caught
+in the branch of a shrub, I ran away.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Here, my good friend, take the picture and conceal it. My
+attentions to the Queen have made her presumptuous. She will be here in
+a minute.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;Conceal the picture! conceal myself, you mean. [<i>Getting up
+and taking the picture</i>.] The Queen has a bitter draught in store for
+you, which you will have to swallow as Siva did the poison at the
+Deluge. When you are well quit of her, you may send and call me from the
+Palace of Clouds,<a name="FNanchor42"></a><a href="#Footnote_42"><sup>[42]</sup></a> where I shall take refuge.<br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exit, running</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>S&Aacute;NUMAT&Iacute; [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;Although the King's affections are transferred to
+another object, yet he respects his previous attachments. I fear his
+love must be somewhat fickle.</p>
+
+<p>VETRAVAT&Iacute; [<i>entering with a despatch in her hand</i>].&mdash;Victory to the
+King!</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;-Vetravat&iacute;, did you observe the Queen Vasumat&iacute; coming in this
+direction?</p>
+
+<p>VETRAVAT&Iacute;.&mdash;I did; but when she saw that I had a despatch in my hand for
+your Majesty, she turned back.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;The Queen has too much regard for propriety to interrupt me when
+I am engaged with state-affairs.</p>
+
+<p>VETRAVAT&Iacute;.&mdash;So please your Majesty, your Prime Minister begs
+respectfully to inform you that he has devoted much time to the
+settlement of financial calculations, and only one case of importance
+has been submitted by the citizens for his consideration. He has made a
+written report of the facts, and requests your Majesty to cast your eyes
+over it.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Hand me the paper.
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Vetravat&iacute; delivers it</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>KING [<i>reading</i>].&mdash;What have we here? &quot;A merchant named Dhanamitra,
+trading by sea, was lost in a late shipwreck. Though a wealthy trader,
+he was childless; and the whole of his immense property becomes by law
+forfeited to the King.&quot; So writes the minister. Alas! alas! for his
+childlessness. But surely, if he was wealthy, he must have had many
+wives. Let an inquiry be made whether any one of them is expecting to
+give birth to a child.</p>
+
+<p>VETRAVAT&Iacute;.&mdash;They say that his wife, the daughter of the foreman of a
+guild belonging to Ayodhy&aacute;, has just completed the ceremonies usual upon
+such expectations.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;The unborn child has a title to his father's property. Such is my
+decree. Go, bid my minister proclaim it so.</p>
+
+<p>VETRAVAT&Iacute;.&mdash;I will, my liege.          <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Going</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Stay a moment.</p>
+
+<p>VETRAVAT&Iacute;.&mdash;I am at your Majesty's service.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Let there be no question whether he may or may not have left
+offspring;</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rather be it proclaimed that whosoe'er</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of King Dushyanta's subjects be bereaved</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of any loved relation, an it be not</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That his estates are forfeited for crimes,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Dushyanta will himself to them supply</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That kinsman's place in tenderest affection.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>VETRAVAT&Iacute;.&mdash;It shall be so proclaimed.
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exit Vetravat&iacute;, and re&euml;nter after an interval</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>VETRAVAT&Iacute;.&mdash;Your Majesty's proclamation was received with acclamations
+of joy, like grateful rain at the right season.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>drawing a deep sigh</i>].&mdash;So then, the property of rich men, who
+have no lineal descendants, passes over to a stranger at their decease.
+And such, alas! must be the fate of the fortunes of the race of Puru at
+my death; even as when fertile soil is sown with seed at the wrong
+season.</p>
+
+<p>VETRAVAT&Iacute;.&mdash;Heaven forbid!</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Fool that I was to reject such happiness when it offered itself
+for my acceptance!</p>
+
+<p>S&Aacute;NUMAT&Iacute; [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;He may well blame his own folly when he calls to
+mind his treatment of my beloved &#346;akoontal&aacute;.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Ah! woe is me? when I forsook my wife&mdash;</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My lawful wife&mdash;concealed within her breast</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>There lay my second self, a child unborn,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hope of my race, e'en as the choicest fruit</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lies hidden in the bosom of the earth.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>S&Aacute;NUMAT&Iacute; [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;There is no fear of your race being cut off for
+want of a son.</p>
+
+<p>CHATURIK&Aacute; [<i>aside to Vetravat&iacute;</i>].&mdash;The affair of the merchant's death
+has quite upset our royal master, and caused him sad distress. Had you
+not better fetch the worthy M&aacute;thavya from the Palace of Clouds to
+comfort him?</p>
+
+<p>VETRAVAT&Iacute;.&mdash;A very good idea. <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exit</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Alas! the shades of my forefathers are even now beginning to be
+alarmed, lest at my death they may be deprived of their funeral
+libations.</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No son remains in King Dushyanta's place</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To offer sacred homage to the dead</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Puru's noble line: my ancestors</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Must drink these glistening tears, the last libation</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A childless man can ever hope to make them.</span><br />
+</div><p><span style='float: right;'>[<i>Falls down in an agony of grief</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>CHATURIK&Aacute; [<i>looking at him in consternation</i>].&mdash;Great King, compose
+yourself.</p>
+
+<p>S&Aacute;NUMAT&Iacute; [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;Alas! alas! though a bright light is shining near
+him, he is involved in the blackest darkness, by reason of the veil that
+obscures his sight. I will now reveal all, and put an end to his misery.
+But no; I heard the mother of the great Indra, when she was consoling
+&#346;akoontal&aacute;, say, that the gods will soon bring about a joyful union
+between husband and wife, being eager for the sacrifice which will be
+celebrated in their honor on the occasion. I must not anticipate the
+happy moment, but will return at once to my dear friend and cheer her
+with an account of what I have seen and heard.
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Rises aloft and disappears</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>A VOICE [<i>behind the scenes</i>].&mdash;Help! help! to the rescue!</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>recovering himself. Listening</i>].&mdash;Ha! I heard a cry of distress,
+and in M&aacute;thavya's voice. What ho there!</p>
+
+<p>VETRAVAT&Iacute; [<i>entering</i>].&mdash;Your friend is in danger; save him, great King.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Who dares insult the worthy M&aacute;thavya?</p>
+
+<p>VETRAVAT&Iacute;.&mdash;Some evil demon, invisible to human eyes, has seized him,
+and carried him to one of the turrets of the Palace of Clouds.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>rising</i>].&mdash;Impossible! Have evil spirits power over my subjects,
+even in my private apartments? Well, well&mdash;</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Daily I seem less able to avert</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Misfortune from myself, and o'er my actions</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Less competent to exercise control;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How can I then direct my subjects' ways,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or shelter them from tyranny and wrong?</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>A VOICE [<i>behind the scenes</i>].&mdash;Halloo there! my dear friend; help!
+help!</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>advancing with rapid strides</i>].&mdash;Fear nothing&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>THE SAME VOICE [<i>behind the scenes</i>].&mdash;Fear nothing, indeed! How can I
+help fearing when some monster is twisting back my neck, and is about to
+snap it as he would a sugarcane?</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>looking round</i>].&mdash;What ho there! my bow.</p>
+
+<p>SLAVE [<i>entering with a bow</i>].&mdash;Behold your bow, Sire, and your
+arm-guard.
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>The king snatches up the bow and arrows</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>ANOTHER VOICE [<i>behind the scenes</i>].&mdash;Here, thirsting for thy
+life-blood, will I slay thee, As a fierce tiger rends his struggling
+prey. Call now thy friend Dushyanta to thy aid; His bow is mighty to
+defend the weak; Yet all its vaunted power shall be as nought.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>with fury</i>].&mdash;What! dares he defy me to my face? Hold there,
+monster! Prepare to die, for your time is come. [<i>Stringing his bow</i>.]
+Vetravat&iacute;, lead the way to the terrace.</p>
+
+<p>VETRAVAT&Iacute;.&mdash;This way, Sire. <span style='float: right;'>[<i>They advance in haste</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>KING [<i>looking on every side</i>].&mdash;How's this? there is nothing to be
+seen.</p>
+
+<p>A VOICE [<i>behind the scenes</i>].&mdash;Help! Save me! I can see you, though you
+cannot see me. I am like a mouse in the claws of a cat; my life is not
+worth a moment's purchase.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Avaunt, monster! You may pride yourself on the magic that renders
+you invisible, but my arrow shall find you out. Thus do I fix a shaft</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That shall discern between an impious demon</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And a good Br&aacute;hman; bearing death to thee,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To him deliverance&mdash;even as the swan</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Distinguishes the milk from worthless water.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p><span style='float: right;'>[<i>Takes aim</i>.<br />
+<i>Enter M&aacute;tali, holding M&aacute;thavya, whom he releases</i>.<br /></span></p><br />
+
+<p>M&Aacute;TALI.&mdash;Turn thou thy deadly arrows on the demons;</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Such is the will of Indra; let thy bow</span>
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Be drawn against the enemies of the gods;</span>
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But on thy friends cast only looks of favor.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>KING [<i>putting back his arrow</i>].&mdash;What, M&aacute;tali! Welcome, most noble
+charioteer of the mighty Indra.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;So, here is a monster who thought as little about
+slaughtering me as if I had been a bullock for sacrifice, and you must
+e'en greet him with a welcome.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;TALI [<i>smiling</i>].&mdash;Great Prince, hear on what errand Indra sent me
+into your presence.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;I am all attention.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;TALI.&mdash;There is a race of giants, the descendants of K&aacute;lanemi, whom
+the gods find difficult to subdue.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;So I have already heard from N&aacute;rada.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;TALI.&mdash;Heaven's mighty lord, who deigns to call thee &quot;friend,&quot;</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Appoints thee to the post of highest honor,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As leader of his armies; and commits</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The subjugation of this giant brood</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To thy resistless arms, e'en as the sun</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Leaves the pale moon to dissipate the darkness.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>Let your Majesty, therefore, ascend at once the celestial car of Indra;
+and, grasping your arms, advance to victory.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;The mighty Indra honors me too highly by such a mark of
+distinction. But tell me, what made you act thus towards my poor friend
+M&aacute;thavya?</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;TALI.&mdash;I will tell you. Perceiving that your Majesty's spirit was
+completely broken by some distress of mind under which you were
+laboring, I determined to rouse your energies by moving you to anger.
+Because</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To light a flame, we need but stir the embers;</span>
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The cobra, when incensed, extends his head</span>
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And springs upon his foe; the bravest men</span>
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Display their courage only when provoked.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>KING [<i>aside to M&aacute;thavya</i>].&mdash;My dear M&aacute;thavya, the commands of the great
+Indra must not be left unfulfilled. Go you and acquaint my minister,
+Pi&#347;una, with what has happened, and say to him from me, Dushyanta to thy
+care confides his realm&mdash;</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Protect with all the vigor of thy mind</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The interests of my people; while my bow</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is braced against the enemies of heaven.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;THAVYA.&mdash;I obey.         <span style='float: right;'> [<i>Exit.</i></span></p><br />
+
+<p>M&Aacute;TALI.&mdash;Ascend, illustrious Prince.<br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>The King ascends the car. Exeunt</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+
+<hr style='width: 65%;' />
+<a name='ACT_SEVENTH'></a><h3>ACT SEVENTH</h3>
+
+<h4>Scene.&mdash;The Sky</h4>
+<br />
+
+<p><i>Enter King Dushyanta and M&aacute;tali in the car of Indra, moving in the
+air</i>.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;My good M&aacute;tali, it appears to me incredible that I can merit such
+a mark of distinction for having simply fulfilled the behests of the
+great Indra.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;TALI [<i>smiling</i>].&mdash;Great Prince, it seems to me that neither of you is
+satisfied with himself&mdash;</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>You underrate the service you have rendered,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And think too highly of the god's reward:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He deems it scarce sufficient recompense</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For your heroic deeds on his behalf.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Nay, M&aacute;tali, say not so. My most ambitious expectations were more
+than realized by the honor conferred on me at the moment when I took my
+leave. For,</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Tinged with celestial sandal, from the breast</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of the great Indra, where before it hung,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A garland of the ever-blooming tree</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Nandana was cast about my neck</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By his own hand: while, in the very presence</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of the assembled gods, I was enthroned</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Beside their mighty lord, who smiled to see</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His son Jayanta envious of the honor.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>M&Aacute;TALI.&mdash;There is no mark of distinction which your Majesty does not
+deserve at the hands of the immortals. See,</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Heaven's hosts acknowledge thee their second saviour;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For now thy bow's unerring shafts (as erst</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The lion-man's terrific claws) have purged</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The empyreal sphere from taint of demons foul.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;The praise of my victory must be ascribed to the majesty of
+Indra.</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When mighty gods make men their delegates</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In martial enterprise, to them belongs</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The palm of victory; and not to mortals.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Could the pale Dawn dispel the shades of night,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Did not the god of day, whose diadem</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is jewelled with a thousand beams of light,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Place him in front of his effulgent car?</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>M&Aacute;TALI.&mdash;A very just comparison. [<i>Driving on.</i>] Great King, behold! the
+glory of thy fame has reached even to the vault of heaven.</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hark! yonder inmates of the starry sphere</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sing anthems worthy of thy martial deeds,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While with celestial colors they depict</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The story of thy victories on scrolls</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Formed of the leaves of heaven's immortal trees.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>KING.&mdash;My good M&aacute;tali, yesterday, when I ascended the sky, I was so
+eager to do battle with the demons, that the road by which we were
+travelling towards Indra's heaven escaped my observation. Tell me, in
+which path of the seven winds are we now moving?</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;TALI.&mdash;We journey in the path of Parivaha;</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The wind that bears along the triple Ganges,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And causes Ursa's seven stars to roll</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In their appointed orbits, scattering</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their several rays with equal distribution.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Tis the same path that once was sanctified</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By the divine impression of the foot</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Vishnu, when, to conquer haughty Bali,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He spanned the heavens in his second stride.</span><br />
+</div>
+<p>KING.&mdash;This is the reason, I suppose, that a sensation of calm repose
+pervades all my senses. [<i>Looking down at the wheels.</i>] Ah! M&aacute;tali, we
+are descending towards the earth's atmosphere.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;TALI.&mdash;What makes you think so?</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;The car itself instructs me; we are moving</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>O'er pregnant clouds, surcharged with rain; below us</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I see the moisture-loving Ch&aacute;takas</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In sportive flight dart through the spokes; the steeds</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Indra glisten with the lightning's flash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And a thick mist bedews the circling wheels.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;TALI.&mdash;You are right; in a little while the chariot will touch the
+ground, and you will be in your own dominions.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>looking down</i>],&mdash;How wonderful is the appearance of the earth as
+we rapidly descend!</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Stupendous prospect! yonder lofty hills</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Do suddenly uprear their towering heads</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Amid the plain, while from beneath their crests</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The ground receding sinks; the trees, whose stems</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Seemed lately hid within their leafy tresses,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rise into elevation, and display</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their branching shoulders; yonder streams, whose waters,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like silver threads, but now were scarcely seen,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Grow into mighty rivers; lo! the earth</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Seems upward hurled by some gigantic power.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;TALI.&mdash;Well described! [<i>Looking with awe.</i>] Grand, indeed, and lovely
+is the spectacle presented by the earth.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Tell me, M&aacute;tali, what is that range of mountains which, like a
+bank of clouds illumined by the setting sun, pours down a stream of
+gold? On one side its base dips into the eastern ocean, and on the other
+side into the western.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;TALI.&mdash;Great Prince, it is called &quot;Golden-peak,&quot;<a name="FNanchor43"></a><a href="#Footnote_43"><sup>[43]</sup></a> and is the abode
+of the attendants of the god of Wealth. In this spot the highest forms
+of penance are wrought out.</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>There Ka&#347;yapa, the great progenitor</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of demons and of gods, himself the offspring</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of the divine Mar&iacute;chi, Brahm&aacute;'s son,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With Aditi, his wife, in calm seclusion,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Does holy penance for the good of mortals.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Then I must not neglect so good an opportunity of obtaining his
+blessing. I should much like to visit this venerable personage and offer
+him my homage.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;TALI.&mdash;By all means! An excellent idea. [<i>Guides the car to the
+earth.</i>]</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>in a tone of wonder</i>].&mdash;How's this?</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Our chariot wheels move noiselessly. Around</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No clouds of dust arise; no shock betokened</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Our contact with the earth; we seem to glide</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Above the ground, so lightly do we touch it.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;TALI.&mdash;Such is the difference between the car of Indra and that of
+your Majesty.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;In which direction, M&aacute;tali, is Ka&#347;yapa's sacred retreat?</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;TALI [<i>pointing</i>].&mdash;Where stands yon anchorite, towards the orb</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of the meridian sun, immovable</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As a tree's stem, his body half-concealed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By a huge ant-hill. Round about his breast</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No sacred cord is twined, but in its stead</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A hideous serpent's skin. In place of necklace,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The tendrils of a withered creeper chafe</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His wasted neck. His matted hair depends</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In thick entanglement about his shoulders,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And birds construct their nests within its folds.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;I salute thee, thou man of austere devotion.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;TALI [<i>holding in the reins of the car</i>].&mdash;Great Prince, we are now in
+the sacred grove of the holy Ka&#347;yapa&mdash;the grove that boasts as its
+ornament one of the five trees of Indra's heaven, reared by Aditi.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;This sacred retreat is more delightful than heaven itself. I
+could almost fancy myself bathing in a pool of nectar.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;TALI [<i>stopping the chariot</i>].&mdash;Descend, mighty Prince.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>descending</i>].&mdash;And what will you do, M&aacute;tali?</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;TALI.&mdash;The chariot will remain where I have stopped it. We may both
+descend. [<i>Doing so.</i>] This way, great King, [<i>Walking on.</i>] You see
+around you the celebrated region where the holiest sages devote
+themselves to penitential rites.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;I am filled with awe and wonder as I gaze.</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In such a place as this do saints of earth</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Long to complete their acts of penance; here,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Beneath the shade of everlasting trees,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Transplanted from the groves of Paradise,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>May they inhale the balmy air, and need</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No other nourishment; here may they bathe</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In fountains sparkling with the golden dust</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of lilies; here, on jewelled slabs of marble,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In meditation rapt, may they recline;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Here, in the presence of celestial nymphs,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>E'en passion's voice is powerless to move them.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;TALI.&mdash;So true is it that the aspirations of the good and great are
+ever soaring upwards. [<i>Turning round and speaking off the stage</i>.] Tell
+me, Vriddha-&#347;&aacute;kalya, how is the divine son of Mar&iacute;chi now engaged? What
+sayest thou? that he is conversing with Aditi and some of the wives of
+the great sages, and that they are questioning him respecting the duties
+of a faithful wife?</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>listening</i>].&mdash;Then we must await the holy father's leisure.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;TALI [<i>looking at the King</i>].&mdash;If your Majesty will rest under the
+shade, at the foot of this A&#347;oka-tree, I will seek an opportunity of
+announcing your arrival to Indra's reputed father.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;As you think proper.          <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Remains under the tree</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>M&Aacute;TALI.&mdash;Great King, I go.         <span style='float: right;'> [<i>Exit.</i></span></p><br />
+
+<p>KING [<i>feeling his arm throb</i>].&mdash;Wherefore this causeless throbbing, O
+mine arm?</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All hope has fled forever; mock me not</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With presages of good, when happiness</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is lost, and nought but misery remains.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>A VOICE [<i>behind the scenes</i>].&mdash;Be not so naughty. Do you begin already
+to show a refractory spirit?</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>listening</i>].&mdash;This is no place for petulance. Who can it be whose
+behavior calls for such a rebuke? [<i>Looking in the direction of the
+sound and smiling</i>.] A child, is it? closely attended by two holy women.
+His disposition seems anything but childlike. See,</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He braves the fury of yon lioness</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Suckling its savage offspring, and compels</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The angry whelp to leave the half-sucked dug,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Tearing its tender mane in boisterous sport.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p><i>Enter a child, attended by two women of the hermitage, in the manner
+described</i>.</p>
+
+<p>CHILD.&mdash;Open your mouth, my young lion, I want to count your teeth.</p>
+
+<p>FIRST ATTENDANT.&mdash;You naughty child, why do you tease the animals? Know
+you not that we cherish them in this hermitage as if they were our own
+children? In good sooth, you have a high spirit of your own, and are
+beginning already to do justice to the name Sarva-damana (All-taming),
+given you by the hermits.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Strange! My heart inclines towards the boy with almost as much
+affection as if he were my own child. What can be the reason? I suppose
+my own childlessness makes me yearn towards the sons of others.</p>
+
+<p>SECOND ATTENDANT.&mdash;This lioness will certainly attack you if you do not
+release her whelp.</p>
+
+<p>CHILD [<i>laughing</i>].&mdash;Oh! indeed! let her come. Much I fear her, to be
+sure.          <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Pouts his under-lip in defiance</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;The germ of mighty courage lies concealed</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Within this noble infant, like a spark</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Beneath the fuel, waiting but a breath</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To fan the flame and raise a conflagration.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>FIRST ATTENDANT.&mdash;Let the young lion go, like a dear child, and I will
+give you something else to play with.</p>
+
+<p>CHILD.&mdash;Where is it? Give it me first.
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Stretches out his hand.</i></span></p><br />
+
+<p>KING [<i>looking at his hand</i>].&mdash;How's this? His hand exhibits one of
+those mystic marks which are the sure prognostic of universal empire.
+See!</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His fingers stretched in eager expectation</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To grasp the wished-for toy, and knit together</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By a close-woven web, in shape resemble</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A lotus-blossom, whose expanding petals</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The early dawn has only half unfolded.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>SECOND ATTENDANT.&mdash;We shall never pacify him by mere words, dear
+Suvrat&aacute;. Be kind enough to go to my cottage, and you will find there a
+plaything belonging to M&aacute;rk&aacute;ndeya, one of the hermit's children. It is a
+peacock made of China-ware, painted in many colors. Bring it here for
+the child.</p>
+
+<p>FIRST ATTENDANT.&mdash;Very well.          <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exit.</i></span></p><br />
+
+<p>CHILD.&mdash;No, no; I shall go on playing with the young lion.
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Looks at the female attendant and laughs</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;I feel an unaccountable affection for this wayward child.</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How blessed the virtuous parents whose attire</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is soiled with dust, by raising from the ground</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The child that asks a refuge in their arms!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And happy are they while with lisping prattle,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In accents sweetly inarticulate,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He charms their ears; and with his artless smiles</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gladdens their hearts, revealing to their gaze</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His tiny teeth, just budding into view.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>ATTENDANT.&mdash;I see how it is. He pays me no manner of attention.
+[<i>Looking off the stage.</i>] I wonder whether any of the hermits are about
+here. [<i>Seeing the King.</i>] Kind Sir, could you come hither a moment and
+help me to release the young lion from the clutch of this child, who is
+teasing him in boyish play?</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>approaching and smiling</i>].&mdash;Listen to me, thou child of a mighty
+saint.</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Dost thou dare show a wayward spirit here?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Here, in this hallowed region? Take thou heed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lest, as the serpent's young defiles the sandal,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou bring dishonor on the holy sage,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy tender-hearted parent, who delights</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To shield from harm the tenants of the wood.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>ATTENDANT.&mdash;Gentle Sir, I thank you; but he is not the saint's son.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;His behavior and whole bearing would have led me to doubt it, had
+not the place of his abode encouraged the idea.</p>
+
+<p>[<i>Follows the child, and takes him by the hand, according to the request
+of the attendant. Speaking aside.</i><br />
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I marvel that the touch of this strange child</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Should thrill me with delight; if so it be,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How must the fond caresses of a son</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Transport the father's soul who gave him being!</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>ATTENDANT [<i>looking at them both</i>].&mdash;Wonderful! Prodigious!</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;What excites your surprise, my good woman?</p>
+
+<p>ATTENDANT.&mdash;I am astonished at the striking resemblance between the
+child and yourself; and, what is still more extraordinary, he seems to
+have taken to you kindly and submissively, though you are a stranger to
+him.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>fondling the child</i>].&mdash;If he be not the son of the great sage, of
+what family does he come, may I ask?</p>
+
+<p>ATTENDANT.&mdash;Of the race of Puru.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;What! are we, then, descended from the same ancestry?
+This, no doubt, accounts for the resemblance she traces between the
+child and me. Certainly it has always been an established usage among
+the princes of Puru's race,</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To dedicate the morning of their days</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To the world's weal, in palaces and halls,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Mid luxury and regal pomp abiding;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then, in the wane of life, to seek release</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From kingly cares, and make the hallowed shade</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of sacred trees their last asylum, where</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As hermits they may practise self-abasement,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And bind themselves by rigid vows of penance.</span><br />
+</div><p>[<i>Aloud.</i>] But how could mortals by their own power gain admission to
+this sacred region?</p>
+
+<p>ATTENDANT.&mdash;Your remark is just; but your wonder will cease when I tell
+you that his mother is the offspring of a celestial nymph, and gave him
+birth in the hallowed grove of Ka&#347;yapa.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;Strange that my hopes should be again excited!
+[<i>Aloud.</i>] But what, let me ask, was the name of the prince whom she
+deigned to honor with her hand?</p>
+
+<p>ATTENDANT.&mdash;How could I think of polluting my lips by the mention of a
+wretch who had the cruelty to desert his lawful wife?</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;Ha! the description suits me exactly. Would I could
+bring myself to inquire the name of the child's mother! [<i>Reflecting.</i>]
+But it is against propriety to make too minute inquiries about the wife
+of another man.</p>
+
+<p>FIRST ATTENDANT [<i>entering with the china peacock in her
+hand</i>].&mdash;Sarva-damana, Sarva-damana, see, see, what a beautiful &#346;akoonta
+(bird).</p>
+
+<p>CHILD [<i>looking round</i>].&mdash;My mother! Where? Let me go to her.</p>
+
+<p>BOTH ATTENDANTS.&mdash;He mistook the word &#346;akoonta for &#346;akoontal&aacute;. The boy
+dotes upon his mother, and she is ever uppermost in his thoughts.</p>
+
+<p>SECOND ATTENDANT.&mdash;Nay, my dear child, I said, Look at the beauty of
+this &#346;akoonta.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;What! is his mother's name &#346;akoontal&aacute;? But the name is
+not uncommon among women. Alas! I fear the mere similarity of a name,
+like the deceitful vapor of the desert, has once more raised my hopes
+only to dash them to the ground.</p>
+
+<p>CHILD [<i>takes the toy</i>].&mdash;Dear nurse, what a beautiful peacock!</p>
+
+<p>FIRST ATTENDANT [<i>looking at the child. In great distress</i>].&mdash;Alas!
+alas! I do not see the amulet on his wrist.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Don't distress yourself. Here it is. It fell off while he was
+struggling with the young lion.
+
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Stoops to pick it up</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>BOTH ATTENDANTS.&mdash;Hold! hold! Touch it not, for your life. How
+marvellous! He has actually taken it up without the slightest
+hesitation.<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Both raise their hands to their breasts and look at each other in
+astonishment.</i></span></p><br />
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Why did you try to prevent my touching it?</p>
+
+<p>FIRST ATTENDANT.&mdash;Listen, great Monarch. This amulet, known as &quot;The
+Invincible,&quot; was given to the boy by the divine son of Mar&iacute;chi, soon
+after his birth, when the natal ceremony was performed. Its peculiar
+virtue is, that when it falls on the ground, no one excepting the father
+or mother of the child can touch it unhurt.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;And suppose another person touches it?</p>
+
+<p>FIRST ATTENDANT.&mdash;Then it instantly becomes a serpent, and bites him.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Have you ever witnessed the transformation with your own eyes?</p>
+
+<p>BOTH ATTENDANTS.&mdash;Over and over again.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>with rapture. Aside</i>].&mdash;Joy! joy! Are then my dearest hopes to be
+fulfilled?<br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Embraces the child</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>SECOND ATTENDANT.&mdash;Come, my dear Suvrat&aacute;, we must inform &#346;akoontal&aacute;
+immediately of this wonderful event, though we have to interrupt her in
+the performance of her religious vows.<br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exeunt.</i></span><br />
+
+<p>CHILD [<i>to the King</i>].&mdash;Do not hold me. I want to go to my mother.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;We will go to her together, and give her joy, my son.</p>
+
+<p>CHILD.&mdash;Dushyanta is my father, not you.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>smiling</i>].&mdash;His contradiction convinces me only the more.</p>
+
+<p><i>Enter &#346;akoontal&aacute;, in widow's apparel, with her long hair twisted into a
+single braid</i>.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;I have just heard that Sarva-damana's amulet has
+retained its form, though a stranger raised it from the ground. I can
+hardly believe in my good fortune. Yet why should not S&aacute;numat&iacute;'s
+prediction be verified?</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>gazing at &#346;akoontal&aacute;</i>].&mdash;Alas! can this indeed be my &#346;akoontal&aacute;?</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Clad in the weeds of widowhood, her face</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Emaciate with fasting, her long hair</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Twined in a single braid, her whole demeanor</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Expressive of her purity of soul:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With patient constancy she thus prolongs</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The vow to which my cruelty condemned her.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>gazing at the King, who is pale with remorse</i>]. Surely this
+is not like my husband; yet who can it be that dares pollute by the
+pressure of his hand my child, whose amulet should protect him from a
+stranger's touch?</p>
+
+<p>CHILD [<i>going to his mother</i>].&mdash;Mother, who is this man that has been
+kissing me and calling me his son?</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;My best beloved, I have indeed treated thee most cruelly, but am
+now once more thy fond and affectionate lover. Refuse not to acknowledge
+me as thy husband.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;Be of good cheer, my heart. The anger of Destiny
+is at last appeased. Heaven regards thee with compassion. But is he in
+very truth my husband?</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Behold me, best and loveliest of women,</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Delivered from the cloud of fatal darkness</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That erst oppressed my memory. Again</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Behold us brought together by the grace</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of the great lord of Heaven. So the moon</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shines forth from dim eclipse, to blend his rays</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With the soft lustre of his Rohin&iacute;.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;May my husband be victorious&mdash;&mdash;&mdash;
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>She stops short, her voice choked with tears.</i></span></p><br />
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;O fair one, though the utterance of thy prayer</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Be lost amid the torrent of thy tears,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yet does the sight of thy fair countenance,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And of thy pallid lips, all unadorned</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And colorless in sorrow for my absence,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Make me already more than conqueror.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>CHILD.&mdash;Mother, who is this man?</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;My child, ask the deity that presides over thy destiny.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>falling at &#346;akoontal&aacute;'s feet</i>].&mdash;Fairest of women, banish from
+thy mind</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The memory of my cruelty; reproach</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The fell delusion that overpowered my soul,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And blame not me, thy husband; 'tis the curse</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of him in whom the power of darkness reigns,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That he mistakes the gifts of those he loves</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For deadly evils. Even though a friend</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Should wreathe a garland on a blind man's brow,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Will he not cast it from him as a serpent?</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;Rise, my own husband, rise. Thou wast not to blame. My own
+evil deeds, committed in a former state of being, brought down this
+judgment upon me. How else could my husband, who was ever of a
+compassionate disposition, have acted so unfeelingly? [<i>The King
+rises</i>.] But tell me, my husband, how did the remembrance of thine
+unfortunate wife return to thy mind?</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;As soon as my heart's anguish is removed, and its wounds are
+healed, I will tell thee all.</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Oh! let me, fair one, chase away the drop</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That still bedews the fringes of thine eye;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And let me thus efface the memory</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of every tear that stained thy velvet cheek,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unnoticed and unheeded by thy lord,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When in his madness he rejected thee.</span><br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[Wipes away the tear.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>seeing the signet-ring on his finger</i>].&mdash;Ah! my dear
+husband, is that the Lost Ring?</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Yes; the moment I recovered it, my memory was restored.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;The ring was to blame in allowing itself to be lost at the
+very time when I was anxious to convince my noble husband of the reality
+of my marriage.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Receive it back, as the beautiful twining plant receives again
+its blossom in token of its reunion with the spring.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;Nay; I can never more place confidence in it. Let my
+husband retain it.
+
+<span style='float: right;'><i>Enter M&aacute;tali</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>M&Aacute;TALI.&mdash;I congratulate your Majesty. Happy are you in your reunion with
+your wife: happy are you in beholding the face of your son.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Yes, indeed. My heart's dearest wish has borne sweet fruit. But
+tell me, M&aacute;tali, is this joyful event known to the great Indra?</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;TALI [<i>smiling</i>].&mdash;What is unknown to the gods? But come with me,
+noble Prince, the divine Ka&#347;yapa graciously permits thee to be presented
+to him.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;&#346;akoontal&aacute;, take our child and lead the way. We will together go
+into the presence of the holy Sage.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;I shrink from entering the august presence of the great
+Saint, even with my husband at my side.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Nay; on such a joyous occasion it is highly proper. Come, come; I
+entreat thee.          <span style='float: right;'>[<i>All advance</i>.<br />
+
+<i>Ka&#347;yapa is discovered seated on a throne with his wife Aditi</i>.</span></p><br />
+<br />
+
+<p>KA&#346;YAPA [<i>gazing at Dushyanta. To his wife</i>].&mdash;O Aditi,</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This is the mighty hero, King Dushyanta,</span>
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Protector of the earth; who, at the head</span>
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of the celestial armies of thy son,</span>
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Does battle with the enemies of heaven.</span>
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thanks to his bow, the thunderbolt of Indra</span>
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rests from its work, no more the minister</span>
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of death and desolation to the world,</span>
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But a mere symbol of divinity.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>ADITI.&mdash;He bears in his noble form all the marks of dignity.</p>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;TALI [<i>to Dushyanta</i>].&mdash;Sire, the venerable progenitors of the
+celestials are gazing at your Majesty with as much affection as if you
+were their son. You may advance towards them.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Are these, O M&aacute;tali, the holy pair,</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Offspring of Daksha and divine Mar&iacute;chi,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Children of Brahm&aacute;'s sons, by sages deemed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sole fountain of celestial light, diffused</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Through twelve effulgent orbs? Are these the pair</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From whom the ruler of the triple world,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sovereign of gods and lord of sacrifice,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sprang into being? That immortal pair</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whom Vishnu, greater than the self-existent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Chose for his parents, when, to save mankind,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He took upon himself the shape of mortals?</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;TALI.&mdash;Even so.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>prostrating himself</i>].&mdash;Most august of beings, Dushyanta, content
+to have fulfilled the commands of your son Indra, offers you his
+adoration.</p>
+
+<p>KA&#346;YAPA.&mdash;My son, long may'st thou live, and happily may'st thou reign
+over the earth!</p>
+
+<p>ADITI.&mdash;My son, may'st thou ever be invincible in the field of battle!</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute;.&mdash;I also prostrate myself before you, most adorable beings,
+and my child with me.</p>
+
+<p>KA&#346;YAPA.&mdash;My daughter,</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy lord resembles Indra, and thy child</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is noble as Jayanta, Indra's son;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I have no worthier blessing left for thee,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>May'st thou be faithful as the god's own wife!</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>ADITI.&mdash;My daughter, may'st thou be always the object of thy husband's
+fondest love; and may thy son live long to be the joy of both his
+parents! Be seated.
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>All sit down in the presence of Ka&#347;yapa</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>KA&#346;YAPA [<i>regarding each of them by turns</i>].&mdash;Hail to the beautiful
+&#346;akoontal&aacute;!</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hail to her noble son! and hail to thee,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Illustrious Prince! Rare triple combination</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of virtue, wealth, and energy united!</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Most venerable Ka&#347;yapa, by your favor all my desires were
+accomplished even before I was admitted to your presence. Never was
+mortal so honored that his boon should be granted ere it was solicited.
+Because,</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bloom before fruit, the clouds before the rain&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Cause first and then effect, in endless sequence,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is the unchanging law of constant nature:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But, ere the blessing issued from thy lips,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The wishes of my heart were all fulfilled.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>M&Aacute;TALI.&mdash;It is thus that the great progenitors of the world confer
+favors.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Most reverend Sage, this thy handmaid was married to me by the
+Gandharva ceremony, and after a time was conducted to my palace by her
+relations. Meanwhile a fatal delusion seized me; I lost my memory and
+rejected her, thus committing a grievous offence against the venerable
+Kanwa, who is of thy divine race. Afterwards the sight of this ring
+restored my faculties, and brought back to my mind all the circumstances
+of my union with his daughter. But my conduct still seems to me
+incomprehensible;</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As foolish as the fancies of a man</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who, when he sees an elephant, denies</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That 'tis an elephant, yet afterwards,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When its huge bulk moves onward, hesitates,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yet will not be convinced till it has passed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Forever from his sight, and left behind</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No vestige of its presence save its footsteps.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>KASYAPA.&mdash;My son, cease to think thyself in fault. Even the delusion
+that possessed thy mind was not brought about by any act of thine.
+Listen to me.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;I am attentive.</p>
+
+<p>KASYAPA.&mdash;Know that when the nymph Menak&aacute;, the mother of &#346;akoontal&aacute;,
+became aware of her daughter's anguish in consequence of the loss of the
+ring at the nymphs' pool, and of thy subsequent rejection of her, she
+brought her and confided her to the care of Aditi. And I no sooner saw
+her than I ascertained by my divine power of meditation, that thy
+repudiation of thy poor faithful wife had been caused entirely by the
+curse of Durv&aacute;sas&mdash;not by thine own fault&mdash;and that the spell would
+terminate on the discovery of the ring.</p>
+
+<p>KING [<i>drawing a deep breath</i>].&mdash;Oh! what a weight is taken off my mind,
+now that my character is cleared of reproach.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;Joy! joy! My revered husband did not, then,
+reject me without good reason, though I have no recollection of the
+curse pronounced upon me. But, in all probability, I unconsciously
+brought it upon myself, when I was so distracted on being separated from
+my husband soon after our marriage. For I now remember that my two
+friends advised me not to fail to show the ring in case he should have
+forgotten me.</p>
+
+<p>KA&#346;YAPA.&mdash;At last, my daughter, thou art happy, and hast gained thy
+heart's desire. Indulge, then, no feeling of resentment against thy
+partner. See, now,</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Though he repulsed thee, 'twas the sage's curse</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That clouded his remembrance; 'twas the curse</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That made thy tender husband harsh towards thee.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Soon as the spell was broken, and his soul</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Delivered from its darkness, in a moment</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou didst gain thine empire o'er his heart.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So on the tarnished surface of a mirror</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No image is reflected, till the dust</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That dimmed its wonted lustre is removed.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Holy father, see here the hope of my royal race.
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Takes his child by the hand</i>.</span></p><br />
+
+<p>KA&#346;YAPA.&mdash;Know that he, too, will become the monarch of the whole earth.
+Observe,</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Soon, a resistless hero, shall he cross</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The trackless ocean, borne above the waves</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In an aerial car; and shall subdue</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The earth's seven sea-girt isles.<a name="FNanchor44"></a><a href="#Footnote_44"><sup>[44]</sup></a> Now has he gained,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As the brave tamer of the forest-beasts,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The title Sarva-damana; but then</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Mankind shall hail him as King Bharata,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And call him the supporter of the world.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;We cannot but entertain the highest hopes of a child for whom
+your highness performed the natal rites.</p>
+
+<p>ADITI.&mdash;My revered husband, should not the intelligence be conveyed to
+Kanwa, that his daughter's wishes are fulfilled, and her happiness
+complete? He is &#346;akoontal&aacute;'s foster-father. Menak&aacute;, who is one of my
+attendants, is her mother, and dearly does she love her daughter.</p>
+
+<p>&#346;AKOONTAL&Aacute; [<i>aside</i>].&mdash;The venerable matron has given utterance to the
+very wish that was in my mind.</p>
+
+<p>KA&#346;YAPA.&mdash;His penances have gained for him the faculty of omniscience,
+and the whole scene is already present to his mind's eye.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Then most assuredly he cannot be very angry with me.</p>
+
+<p>KA&#346;YAPA.&mdash;Nevertheless it becomes us to send him intelligence of this
+happy event, and hear his reply. What, ho there!</p>
+
+<p>PUPIL [<i>entering</i>].&mdash;Holy father, what are your commands?</p>
+
+<p>KA&#346;YAPA.&mdash;My good G&aacute;lava, delay not an instant, but hasten through the
+air and convey to the venerable Kanwa, from me, the happy news that the
+fatal spell has ceased, that Dushyanta's memory is restored, that his
+daughter &#346;akoontal&aacute; has a son, and that she is once more tenderly
+acknowledged by her husband.</p>
+
+<p>PUPIL.&mdash;Your highness's commands shall be obeyed.         <span style='float: right;'> [<i>Exit.</i></span></p><br />
+
+<p>KA&#346;YAPA.&mdash;And now, my dear son, take thy consort and thy child,
+re-ascend the car of Indra, and return to thy imperial capital.</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Most holy father, I obey.</p>
+
+<p>KA&#346;YAPA.&mdash;And accept this blessing&mdash;</p>
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For countless ages may the god of gods,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lord of the atmosphere, by copious showers</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Secure abundant harvest to thy subjects;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thou by frequent offerings preserve</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Thunderer's friendship! Thus, by interchange</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of kindly actions, may you both confer</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unnumbered benefits on earth and heaven!</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;Holy father, I will strive, as far as I am able, to attain this
+happiness.</p>
+
+<p>KA&#346;YAPA.&mdash;What other favor can I bestow on thee, my son?</p>
+
+<p>KING.&mdash;What other can I desire? If, however, you permit me to form
+another wish, I would humbly beg that the saying of the sage Bharata be
+fulfilled:&mdash;
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>May kings reign only for their subjects' weal!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>May the divine Saraswati, the source</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of speech, and goddess of dramatic art,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Be ever honored by the great and wise!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And may the purple self-existent god,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whose vital Energy pervades all space,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From future transmigrations save my soul!</span><br />
+<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exeunt omnes</i>. </span><br />
+</div>
+
+<br />
+<br />
+
+<hr style='width: 65%;' />
+<a name='BALLADS_OF_HINDOSTAN_a'></a><h2>BALLADS OF HINDOSTAN</h2>
+<br />
+
+<a name='MISCELLANEOUS_POEMS'></a><h2>MISCELLANEOUS POEMS</h2>
+
+<h4>BY</h4>
+
+<h2>TORU DUTT</h2>
+
+
+<a name='TD_INTRODUCTION'></a><h3>INTRODUCTION</h3>
+
+
+<p>If Toru Dutt were alive, she would still be younger than any recognized
+European writer, and yet her fame, which is already considerable, has
+been entirely posthumous. Within the brief space of four years which now
+divides us from the date of her decease, her genius has been revealed to
+the world under many phases, and has been recognized throughout France
+and England. Her name, at least, is no longer unfamiliar in the ear of
+any well-read man or woman. But at the hour of her death she had
+published but one book, and that book had found but two reviewers in
+Europe. One of these, M. Andr&eacute; Theuriet, the well-known poet and
+novelist, gave the &quot;Sheaf gleaned in French Fields&quot; adequate praise in
+the &quot;Revue des Deux Mondes&quot;; but the other, the writer of the present
+notice, has a melancholy satisfaction in having been a little earlier
+still in sounding the only note of welcome which reached the dying
+poetess from England. It was while Professor W. Minto was editor of the
+&quot;Examiner,&quot; that one day in August, 1876, in the very heart of the dead
+season for books, I happened to be in the office of that newspaper, and
+was upbraiding the whole body of publishers for issuing no books worth
+reviewing. At that moment the postman brought in a thin and sallow
+packet with a wonderful Indian postmark on it, and containing a most
+unattractive orange pamphlet of verse, printed at Bhowanipore, and
+entitled &quot;A Sheaf gleaned in French Fields, by Toru Dutt.&quot; This shabby
+little book of some two hundred pages, without preface or introduction,
+seemed specially destined by its particular providence to find its way
+hastily into the waste-paper basket. I remember that Mr. Minto thrust it
+into my unwilling hands, and said &quot;There! see whether you can't make
+something of that.&quot; A hopeless volume it seemed, with its queer type,
+published at Bhowanipore, printed at the Saptahiksambad Press! But when
+at last I took it out of my pocket, what was my surprise and almost
+rapture to open at such verse as this:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'>
+<div class='stanza'>
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Still barred thy doors! The far East glows,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The morning wind blows fresh and free.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Should not the hour that wakes the rose</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 6em;'>Awaken also thee?</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;All look for thee, Love, Light, and Song,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Light in the sky deep red above,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Song, in the lark of pinions strong,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 6em;'>And in my heart, true Love.</span><br /></div>
+<div class='stanza'>
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Apart we miss our nature's goal,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Why strive to cheat our destinies?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was not my love made for thy soul?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Thy beauty for mine eyes?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 6em;'>No longer sleep,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 7em;'>Oh, listen now!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 6em;'>I wait and weep,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 7em;'>But where art thou?&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p>When poetry is as good as this it does not much matter whether Rouveyre
+prints it upon Whatman paper, or whether it steals to light in blurred
+type from some press in Bhowanipore.</p>
+
+<p>Toru Dutt was the youngest of the three children of a high-caste Hindoo
+couple in Bengal. Her father, who survives them all, the Baboo Govin
+Chunder Dutt, is himself distinguished among his countrymen for the
+width of his views and the vigor of his intelligence. His only son,
+Abju, died in 1865, at the age of fourteen, and left his two younger
+sisters to console their parents. Aru, the elder daughter, born in 1854,
+was eighteen months senior to Toru, the subject of this memoir, who was
+born in Calcutta on March 4, 1856. With the exception of one year's
+visit to Bombay, the childhood of these girls was spent in Calcutta, at
+their father's garden-house. In a poem now printed for the first time,
+Toru refers to the scene of her earliest memories, the circling
+wilderness of foliage, the shining tank with the round leaves of the
+lilies, the murmuring dusk under the vast branches of the central
+casuarina-tree. Here, in a mystical retirement more irksome to a
+European in fancy than to an Oriental in reality, the brain of this
+wonderful child was moulded. She was pure Hindoo, full of the typical
+qualities of her race and blood, and, as the present volume shows us for
+the first time, preserving to the last her appreciation of the poetic
+side of her ancient religion, though faith itself in Vishnu and Siva had
+been cast aside with childish things and been replaced by a purer faith.
+Her mother fed her imagination with the old songs and legends of their
+people, stories which it was the last labor of her life to weave into
+English verse; but it would seem that the marvellous faculties of Toru's
+mind still slumbered, when, in her thirteenth year, her father decided
+to take his daughters to Europe to learn English and French. To the end
+of her days Toru was a better French than English scholar. She loved
+France best, she knew its literature best, she wrote its language with
+more perfect elegance. The Dutts arrived in Europe at the close of 1869,
+and the girls went to school, for the first and last time, at a French
+pension. They did not remain there very many months; their father took
+them to Italy and England with him, and finally they attended for a
+short time, but with great zeal and application, the lectures for women
+at Cambridge. In November, 1873, they went back to Bengal, and the four
+remaining years of Toru's life were spent in the old garden-house at
+Calcutta, in a feverish dream of intellectual effort and imaginative
+production. When we consider what she achieved in these forty-five
+months of seclusion, it is impossible to wonder that the frail and
+hectic body succumbed under so excessive a strain.</p>
+
+<p>She brought with her from Europe a store of knowledge that would have
+sufficed to make an English or French girl seem learned, but which in
+her case was simply miraculous. Immediately on her return she began to
+study Sanscrit with the same intense application which she gave to all
+her work, and mastering the language with extraordinary swiftness, she
+plunged into its mysterious literature. But she was born to write, and
+despairing of an audience in her own language, she began to adopt ours
+as a medium for her thought. Her first essay, published when she was
+eighteen, was a monograph, in the &quot;Bengal Magazine,&quot; on Leconte de
+Lisle, a writer with whom she had a sympathy which is very easy to
+comprehend. The austere poet of &quot;La Mort de Valmiki&quot; was, obviously, a
+figure to whom the poet of &quot;Sindhu&quot; must needs be attracted on
+approaching European literature. This study, which was illustrated by
+translations into English verse, was followed by another on Jos&eacute;phin
+Soulary, in whom she saw more than her maturer judgment might have
+justified. There is something very interesting and now, alas! still more
+pathetic in these sturdy and workmanlike essays in unaided criticism.
+Still more solitary her work became, in July, 1874, when her only
+sister, Aru, died, at the age of twenty. She seems to have been no less
+amiable than her sister, and if gifted with less originality and a less
+forcible ambition, to have been finely accomplished. Both sisters were
+well-trained musicians, with full contralto voices, and Aru had a
+faculty for design which promised well. The romance of &quot;Mlle. D'Arvers&quot;
+was originally projected for Aru to illustrate, but no page of this book
+did Aru ever see.</p>
+
+<p>In 1876, as we have said, appeared that obscure first volume at
+Bhowanipore. The &quot;Sheaf gleaned in French Fields&quot; is certainly the most
+imperfect of Toru's writings, but it is not the least interesting. It is
+a wonderful mixture of strength and weakness, of genius overriding great
+obstacles, and of talent succumbing to ignorance and inexperience. That
+it should have been performed at all is so extraordinary that we forget
+to be surprised at its inequality. The English verse is sometimes
+exquisite; at other times the rules of our prosody are absolutely
+ignored, and it is obvious that the Hindoo poetess was chanting to
+herself a music that is discord in an English ear. The notes are no less
+curious, and to a stranger no less bewildering. Nothing could be more
+naive than the writer's ignorance at some points, or more startling than
+her learning at others. On the whole, the attainment of the book was
+simply astounding. It consisted of a selection of translations from
+nearly one hundred French poets, chosen by the poetess herself on a
+principle of her own which gradually dawned upon the careful reader. She
+eschewed the Classicist writers as though they had never existed. For
+her Andr&eacute; Chenier was the next name in chronological order after Du
+Bartas. Occasionally she showed a profundity of research that would have
+done no discredit to Mr. Saintsbury or &quot;le doux Assellineau.&quot; She was
+ready to pronounce an opinion on Napol le Pyr&eacute;n&eacute;an or detect a
+plagiarism in Baudelaire. But she thought that Alexander Smith was still
+alive, and she was curiously vague about the career of Sainte-Beuve.
+This inequality of equipment was a thing inevitable to her isolation,
+and hardly worthy recording, except to show how laborious her mind was,
+and how quick to make the best of small resources.</p>
+
+<p>We have already seen that the &quot;Sheaf gleaned in French Fields&quot; attracted
+the very minimum of attention in England. In France it was talked about
+a little more. M. Garcin de Tassy, the famous Orientalist, who scarcely
+survived Toru by twelve months, spoke of it to Mlle. Clarisse Bader,
+author of a somewhat remarkable book on the position of women in ancient
+Indian society. Almost simultaneously this volume fell into the hands of
+Toru, and she was moved to translate it into English, for the use of
+Hindoos less instructed than herself. In January, 1877, she accordingly
+wrote to Mlle. Bader requesting her authorization, and received a prompt
+and kind reply. On the 18th of March Toru wrote again to this, her
+solitary correspondent in the world of European literature, and her
+letter, which has been preserved, shows that she had already descended
+into the valley of the shadow of death:&mdash;</p>
+
+<blockquote>&quot;Ma constitution n'est pas forte; j'ai contract&eacute; une toux
+opini&acirc;tre, il y a plus de deux ans, qui ne me quitte point.
+Cependant j'esp&egrave;re mettre la main &agrave; l'oeuvre bient&ocirc;t. Je ne peux
+dire, mademoiselle, combien votre affection&mdash;car vous les aimez,
+votre livre et votre lettre en t&eacute;moignent assez&mdash;pour mes
+compatriotes et mon pays me touche; et je suis fi&egrave;re de pouvoir le
+dire que les h&eacute;ro&iuml;nes de nos grandes &eacute;pop&eacute;es sont dignes de tout
+honneur et de tout amour. Y a-t-il d'h&eacute;ro&iuml;ne plus touchante, plus
+aimable que S&icirc;ta? Je ne le crois pas. Quand j'entends ma m&eacute;re
+chanter, le soir, les vieux chants de notre pays, je pleure presque
+toujours. La plainte de S&icirc;ta, quand, bannie pour la s&eacute;conde fois,
+elle erre dans la vaste for&ecirc;t, seule, le d&eacute;sespoir et l'effroi dans
+l'&acirc;me, est si path&eacute;tique qu'il n'y a personne, je crois, qui puisse
+l'entendre sans verser des larmes. Je vous envois sous ce pli deux
+petites traductions du Sanscrit, cette belle langue antique.
+Malheureusement j'ai &eacute;t&eacute; oblig&eacute;e de faire cesser mes traductions de
+Sanscrit, il y a six mois. Ma sant&eacute; ne me permet pas de les
+continuer.&quot;</blockquote>
+
+<p>These simple and pathetic words, in which the dying poetess pours out
+her heart to the one friend she had, and that one gained too late, seem
+as touching and as beautiful as any strain of Marceline Valmore's
+immortal verse. In English poetry I do not remember anything that
+exactly parallels their resigned melancholy. Before the month of March
+was over, Toru had taken to her bed. Unable to write, she continued to
+read, strewing her sick-room with the latest European books, and
+entering with interest into the questions raised by the Soci&eacute;t&eacute;
+Asiatique of Paris, in its printed Transactions. On the 30th of July she
+wrote her last letter to Mlle. Clarisse Bader, and a month later, on
+August 30, 1877, at the age of twenty-one years six months and
+twenty-six days, she breathed her last in her father's house in
+Maniktollah street, Calcutta.</p>
+
+<p>In the first distraction of grief it seemed as though her unequalled
+promise had been entirely blighted, and as though she would be
+remembered only by her single book. But as her father examined her
+papers, one completed work after another revealed itself. First a
+selection from the sonnets of the Comte de Grammont, translated into
+English, turned up, and was printed in a Calcutta magazine; then some
+fragments of an English story, which were printed in another Calcutta
+magazine. Much more important, however, than any of these was a complete
+romance, written in French, being the identical story for which her
+sister Aru had proposed to make the illustrations. In the meantime Toru
+was no sooner dead than she began to be famous. In May, 1878, there
+appeared a second edition of the &quot;Sheaf gleaned in French Fields,&quot; with
+a touching sketch of her death, by her father; and in 1879 was
+published, under the editorial care of Mlle. Clarisse Bader, the romance
+of &quot;Le Journal de Mlle. D'Arvers,&quot; forming a handsome volume of 259
+pages. This book, begun, as it appears, before the family returned from
+Europe, and finished nobody knows when, is an attempt to describe scenes
+from modern French society, but it is less interesting as an experiment
+of the fancy, than as a revelation of the mind of a young Hindoo woman
+of genius. The story is simple, clearly told, and interesting; the
+studies of character have nothing French about them, but they are full
+of vigor and originality. The description of the hero is most
+characteristically Indian:&mdash;</p>
+
+<blockquote>&quot;Il est beau en effet. Sa taille est haute, mais quelques-uns la
+trouveraient mince; sa chevelure noire est boucl&eacute;e et tombe jusqu'&aacute;
+la nuque; ses yeux noirs sont profonds et bien fendus; le front est
+noble; la l&egrave;vre sup&eacute;rieure, couverte par une moustache naissante et
+noire, est parfaitement model&eacute;e; son menton a quelque chose de
+s&eacute;v&egrave;re; son teint est d'un blanc presque f&eacute;minin, ce qui d&eacute;note sa
+haute naissance.&quot;</blockquote>
+
+<p>In this description we seem to recognize some Surya or Soma of Hindoo
+mythology, and the final touch, meaningless as applied to a European,
+reminds us that in India whiteness of skin has always been a sign of
+aristocratic birth, from the days when it originally distinguished the
+conquering Aryas from the indigenous race of the Dasyous.</p>
+
+<p>As a literary composition &quot;Mlle. D'Arvers&quot; deserves high commendation.
+It deals with the ungovernable passion of two brothers for one placid
+and beautiful girl, a passion which leads to fratricide and madness.
+That it is a very melancholy and tragical story is obvious from this
+brief sketch of its contents, but it is remarkable for coherence and
+self-restraint no less than for vigor of treatment. Toru Dutt never
+sinks to melodrama in the course of her extraordinary tale, and the
+wonder is that she is not more often fantastic and unreal.</p>
+
+<p>But we believe that the original English poems will be ultimately found
+to constitute Toru's chief legacy to posterity. These ballads form the
+last and most matured of her writings, and were left so far fragmentary
+at her death that the fourth and fifth in her projected series of nine
+were not to be discovered in any form among her papers. It is probable
+that she had not even commenced them. Her father, therefore, to give a
+certain continuity to the series, has filled up these blanks with two
+stories from the &quot;Vishnupurana,&quot; which originally appeared respectively
+in the &quot;Calcutta Review&quot; and in the &quot;Bengal Magazine.&quot; These are
+interesting, but a little rude in form, and they have not the same
+peculiar value as the rhymed octo-syllabic ballads. In these last we see
+Toru no longer attempting vainly, though heroically, to compete with
+European literature on its own ground, but turning to the legends of her
+own race and country for inspiration. No modern Oriental has given us so
+strange an insight into the conscience of the Asiatic as is presented in
+the story of &quot;Preh&iacute;ad,&quot; or so quaint a piece of religious fancy as the
+ballad of &quot;Jogadhya Uma.&quot; The poetess seems in these verses to be
+chanting to herself those songs of her mother's race to which she always
+turned with tears of pleasure. They breathe a Vedic solemnity and
+simplicity of temper, and are singularly devoid of that littleness and
+frivolity which seem, if we may judge by a slight experience, to be the
+bane of modern India.</p>
+
+<p>As to the merely technical character of these poems, it may be suggested
+that in spite of much in them that is rough and inchoate, they show that
+Toru was advancing in her mastery of English verse. Such a stanza as
+this, selected out of many no less skilful, could hardly be recognized
+as the work of one by whom the language was a late acquirement:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;What glorious trees! The sombre saul,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>On which the eye delights to rest&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The betel-nut, a pillar tall,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>With feathery branches for a crest&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The light-leaved tamarind spreading wide&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The pale faint-scented bitter neem,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The seemul, gorgeous as a bride,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>With flowers that have the ruby's gleam.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>In other passages, of course, the text reads like a translation from
+some stirring ballad, and we feel that it gives but a faint and
+discordant echo of the music welling in Toru's brain. For it must
+frankly be confessed that in the brief May-day of her existence she had
+not time to master our language as Blanco White did, or as Chamisso
+mastered German. To the end of her days, fluent and graceful as she was,
+she was not entirely conversant with English, especially with the
+colloquial turns of modern speech. Often a very fine thought is spoiled
+for hypercritical ears by the queer turn of expression which she has
+innocently given to it. These faults are found to a much smaller degree
+in her miscellaneous poems. Her sonnets seem to me to be of great
+beauty, and her longer piece, entitled &quot;Our Casuarina Tree,&quot; needs no
+apology for its rich and mellifluous numbers.</p>
+
+<p>It is difficult to exaggerate when we try to estimate what we have lost
+in the premature death of Toru Dutt. Literature has no honors which need
+have been beyond the grasp of a girl who at the age of twenty-one, and
+in languages separated from her own by so deep a chasm, had produced so
+much of lasting worth. And her courage and fortitude were worthy of her
+intelligence. Among &quot;last words&quot; of celebrated people, that which her
+father has recorded, &quot;It is only the physical pain that makes me cry,&quot;
+is not the least remarkable, or the least significant of strong
+character. It was to a native of our island, and to one ten years senior
+to Toru, to whom it was said, in words more appropriate, surely, to her
+than to Oldham,</p>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Thy generous fruits, though gathered ere their prime,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Still showed a quickness, and maturing time</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But mellows what we write to the dull sweets of Rime.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<p>That mellow sweetness was all that Toru lacked to perfect her as an
+English poet, and of no other Oriental who has ever lived can the same
+be said. When the history of the literature of our country comes to be
+written, there is sure to be a page in it dedicated to this fragile
+exotic blossom of song.</p>
+
+<p>EDMUND W. GOSSE.</p>
+
+<p><i>London, 1881</i>.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style='width: 65%;' />
+<a name='BALLADS_OF_HINDOSTAN_b'></a><h2>BALLADS OF HINDOSTAN</h2>
+
+<a name='JOGADHYA_UMA'></a><h3>JOGADHYA UMA</h3>
+
+
+<div class='poem'><div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Shell-bracelets ho! Shell-bracelets ho!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Fair maids and matrons come and buy!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Along the road, in morning's glow,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The pedler raised his wonted cry.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The road ran straight, a red, red line,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>To Khirogram, for cream renowned,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Through pasture-meadows where the kine,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>In knee-deep grass, stood magic bound</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And half awake, involved in mist,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>That floated in dun coils profound,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Till by the sudden sunbeams kissed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Rich rainbow hues broke all around.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Shell-bracelets ho! Shell-bracelets ho!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The roadside trees still dripped with dew,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And hung their blossoms like a show.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Who heard the cry? 'Twas but a few,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A ragged herd-boy, here and there,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>With his long stick and naked feet;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A ploughman wending to his care,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The field from which he hopes the wheat;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>An early traveller, hurrying fast</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>To the next town; an urchin slow</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bound for the school; these heard and passed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Unheeding all&mdash;&quot;Shell-bracelets ho!&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Pellucid spread a lake-like tank</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Beside the road now lonelier still,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>High on three sides arose the bank</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Which fruit-trees shadowed at their will;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upon the fourth side was the Ghat,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>With its broad stairs of marble white,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And at the entrance-arch there sat,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Full face against the morning light,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A fair young woman with large eyes,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And dark hair falling to her zone,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She heard the pedler's cry arise,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And eager seemed his ware to own.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Shell-bracelets ho! See, maiden see!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The rich enamel sunbeam kissed!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Happy, oh happy, shalt thou be,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Let them but clasp that slender wrist;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>These bracelets are a mighty charm,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>They keep a lover ever true,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And widowhood avert, and harm,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Buy them, and thou shalt never rue.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Just try them on!&quot;&mdash;She stretched her hand,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>&quot;Oh what a nice and lovely fit!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No fairer hand, in all the land,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And lo! the bracelet matches it.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Dazzled the pedler on her gazed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Till came the shadow of a fear,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While she the bracelet arm upraised</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Against the sun to view more clear.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Oh she was lovely, but her look</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Had something of a high command</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That filled with awe. Aside she shook</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Intruding curls by breezes fanned</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And blown across her brows and face,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And asked the price, which when she heard</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She nodded, and with quiet grace</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>For payment to her home referred.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;And where, O maiden, is thy house?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>But no, that wrist-ring has a tongue,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No maiden art thou, but a spouse,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Happy, and rich, and fair, and young.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Far otherwise, my lord is poor,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And him at home thou shalt not find;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ask for my father; at the door</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Knock loudly; he is deaf, but kind.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Seest thou that lofty gilded spire</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Above these tufts of foliage green?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That is our place; its point of fire</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Will guide thee o'er the tract between.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;That is the temple spire.&quot;&mdash;&quot;Yes, there</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>We live; my father is the priest,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The manse is near, a building fair</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>But lowly, to the temple's east.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When thou hast knocked, and seen him, say,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>His daughter, at Dhamaser Ghat,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shell-bracelets bought from thee to-day,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And he must pay so much for that.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Be sure, he will not let thee pass</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Without the value, and a meal.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If he demur, or cry alas!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>No money hath he&mdash;then reveal,</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Within the small box, marked with streaks</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Of bright vermilion, by the shrine,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The key whereof has lain for weeks</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Untouched, he'll find some coin&mdash;'tis mine.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That will enable him to pay</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The bracelet's price, now fare thee well!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She spoke, the pedler went away,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Charmed with her voice, as by some spell;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While she left lonely there, prepared</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>To plunge into the water pure,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And like a rose her beauty bared,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>From all observance quite secure.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Not weak she seemed, nor delicate,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Strong was each limb of flexile grace,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And full the bust; the mien elate,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Like hers, the goddess of the chase</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On Latmos hill&mdash;and oh, the face</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Framed in its cloud of floating hair,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No painter's hand might hope to trace</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The beauty and the glory there!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Well might the pedler look with awe,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>For though her eyes were soft, a ray</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lit them at times, which kings who saw</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Would never dare to disobey.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Onwards through groves the pedler sped</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Till full in front the sunlit spire</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Arose before him. Paths which led</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>To gardens trim in gay attire</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lay all around. And lo! the manse,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Humble but neat with open door!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He paused, and blest the lucky chance</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>That brought his bark to such a shore.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Huge straw ricks, log huts full of grain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Sleek cattle, flowers, a tinkling bell,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Spoke in a language sweet and plain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>&quot;Here smiling Peace and Plenty dwell.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unconsciously he raised his cry,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>&quot;Shell-bracelets ho!&quot; And at his voice</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Looked out the priest, with eager eye,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And made his heart at once rejoice.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Ho, <i>Sankha</i> pedler! Pass not by,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>But step thou in, and share the food</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Just offered on our altar high,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>If thou art in a hungry mood.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Welcome are all to this repast!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The rich and poor, the high and low!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Come, wash thy feet, and break thy fast,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Then on thy journey strengthened go.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Oh thanks, good priest! Observance due</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And greetings! May thy name be blest!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I came on business, but I knew,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Here might be had both food and rest</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Without a charge; for all the poor</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Ten miles around thy sacred shrine</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Know that thou keepest open door,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And praise that generous hand of thine:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But let my errand first be told,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>For bracelets sold to thine this day,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So much thou owest me in gold,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Hast thou the ready cash to pay?</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The bracelets were enamelled&mdash;so</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The price is high.&quot;&mdash;&quot;How! Sold to mine?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who bought them, I should like to know.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>&quot;Thy daughter, with the large black eyne,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Now bathing at the marble ghat.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Loud laughed the priest at this reply,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;I shall not put up, friend, with that;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>No daughter in the world have I,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>An only son is all my stay;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Some minx has played a trick, no doubt,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But cheer up, let thy heart be gay.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Be sure that I shall find her out.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Nay, nay, good father, such a face</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Could not deceive, I must aver;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>At all events, she knows thy place,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>'And if my father should demur</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To pay thee'&mdash;thus she said&mdash;'or cry</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>He has no money, tell him straight</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The box vermilion-streaked to try,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>That's near the shrine,'&quot; &quot;Well, wait, friend, wait!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The priest said thoughtful, and he ran</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And with the open box came back,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Here is the price exact, my man,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>No surplus over, and no lack.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How strange! how strange! Oh blest art thou</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>To have beheld her, touched her hand,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Before whom Vishnu's self must bow,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And Brahma and his heavenly band!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Here have I worshipped her for years</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And never seen the vision bright;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vigils and fasts and secret tears</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Have almost quenched my outward sight;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And yet that dazzling form and face</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>I have not seen, and thou, dear friend,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To thee, unsought for, comes the grace,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>What may its purport be, and end?</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How strange! How strange! Oh happy thou!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And couldst thou ask no other boon</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Than thy poor bracelet's price? That brow</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Resplendent as the autumn moon</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Must have bewildered thee, I trow,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And made thee lose thy senses all.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A dim light on the pedler now</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Began to dawn; and he let fall</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His bracelet basket in his haste,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And backward ran the way he came;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What meant the vision fair and chaste,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Whose eyes were they&mdash;those eyes of flame?</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Swift ran the pedler as a hind,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The old priest followed on his trace,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They reached the Ghat but could not find</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The lady of the noble face.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The birds were silent in the wood,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The lotus flowers exhaled a smell</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Faint, over all the solitude,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>A heron as a sentinel</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Stood by the bank. They called&mdash;in vain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>No answer came from hill or fell,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The landscape lay in slumber's chain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>E'en Echo slept within her cell.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Broad sunshine, yet a hush profound!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>They turned with saddened hearts to go;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then from afar there came a sound</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Of silver bells;&mdash;the priest said low,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;O Mother, Mother, deign to hear,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The worship-hour has rung; we wait</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In meek humility and fear.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Must we return home desolate?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Oh come, as late thou cam'st unsought,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Or was it but an idle dream?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Give us some sign if it was not,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>A word, a breath, or passing gleam.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sudden from out the water sprung</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>A rounded arm, on which they saw</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As high the lotus buds among</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>It rose, the bracelet white, with awe.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then a wide ripple tost and swung</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The blossoms on that liquid plain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And lo! the arm so fair and young</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Sank in the waters down again.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They bowed before the mystic Power,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And as they home returned in thought,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each took from thence a lotus flower</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>In memory of the day and spot.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Years, centuries, have passed away,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And still before the temple shrine</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Descendants of the pedler pay</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Shell-bracelets of the old design</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As annual tribute. Much they own</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>In lands and gold&mdash;but they confess</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From that eventful day alone</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Dawned on their industry&mdash;success.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Absurd may be the tale I tell,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Ill-suited to the marching times,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I loved the lips from which it fell,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>So let it stand among my rhymes.</span><br />
+</div></div>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 65%;' />
+<a name='BUTTOO'></a><h2>BUTTOO</h2>
+
+
+<div class='poem'><div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Ho! Master of the wondrous art!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Instruct me in fair archery,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And buy for aye&mdash;a grateful heart</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That will not grudge to give thy fee.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus spoke a lad with kindling eyes,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A hunter's lowborn son was he&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Dronacharjya, great and wise,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who sat with princes round his knee.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Up Time's fair stream far back&mdash;oh far,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The great wise teacher must be sought!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Kurus had not yet in war</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With the Pandava brethren fought.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In peace, at Dronacharjya's feet,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Magic and archery they learned,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A complex science, which we meet</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No more, with ages past inurned.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;And who art thou,&quot; the teacher said,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;My science brave to learn so fain?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which many kings who wear the thread</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Have asked to learn of me in vain.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;My name is Buttoo,&quot; said the youth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;A hunter's son, I know not Fear;&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The teacher answered, smiling smooth,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Then know him from this time, my dear.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unseen the magic arrow came,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Amidst the laughter and the scorn</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of royal youths&mdash;like lightning flame</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sudden and sharp. They blew the horn,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As down upon the ground he fell,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Not hurt, but made a jest and game;&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He rose&mdash;and waved a proud farewell,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But cheek and brow grew red with shame.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And lo&mdash;a single, single tear</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Dropped from his eyelash as he past,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;My place I gather is not here;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No matter&mdash;what is rank or caste?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In us is honor, or disgrace,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Not out of us,&quot; 'twas thus he mused,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;The question is&mdash;not wealth or place,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But gifts well used, or gifts abused.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;And I shall do my best to gain</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The science that man will not teach,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For life is as a shadow vain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Until the utmost goal we reach</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To which the soul points. I shall try</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To realize my waking dream,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And what if I should chance to die?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>None miss one bubble from a stream.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So thinking, on and on he went,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Till he attained the forest's verge,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The garish day was well-nigh spent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Birds had already raised its dirge.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Oh what a scene! How sweet and calm!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>It soothed at once his wounded pride,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And on his spirit shed a balm</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That all its yearnings purified.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What glorious trees! The sombre saul</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On which the eye delights to rest,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The betel-nut&mdash;a pillar tall,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With feathery branches for a crest,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The light-leaved tamarind spreading wide,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The pale faint-scented bitter neem,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The seemul, gorgeous as a bride,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With flowers that have the ruby's gleam,</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Indian fig's pavilion tent</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In which whole armies might repose,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With here and there a little rent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The sunset's beauty to disclose,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The bamboo boughs that sway and swing</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Neath bulbuls as the south wind blows,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The mango-tope, a close dark ring,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Home of the rooks and clamorous crows,</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The champac, bok, and South-sea pine,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The nagessur with pendant flowers</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like ear-rings&mdash;and the forest vine</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That clinging over all, embowers,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The sirish famed in Sanscrit song</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which rural maidens love to wear,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The peepul giant-like and strong,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The bramble with its matted hair,</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All these, and thousands, thousands more,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With helmet red, or golden crown,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or green tiara, rose before</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The youth in evening's shadows brown.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He passed into the forest&mdash;there</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>New sights of wonder met his view,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A waving Pampas green and fair</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All glistening with the evening dew.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How vivid was the breast-high grass!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Here waved in patches, forest corn&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Here intervened a deep morass&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Here arid spots of verdure shorn</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lay open&mdash;rock or barren sand&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And here again the trees arose</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thick clustering&mdash;a glorious band</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their tops still bright with sunset glows.&mdash;</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Stirred in the breeze the crowding boughs,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And seemed to welcome him with signs,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Onwards and on&mdash;till Buttoo's brows</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Are gemmed with pearls, and day declines.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then in a grassy open space</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He sits and leans against a tree,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To let the wind blow on his face</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And look around him leisurely.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Herds, and still herds, of timid deer</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Were feeding in the solitude,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They knew not man, and felt no fear,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And heeded not his neighborhood,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Some young ones with large eyes and sweet</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Came close, and rubbed their foreheads smooth</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Against his arms, and licked his feet,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As if they wished his cares to soothe.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;They touch me,&quot; he exclaimed with joy,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;They have no pride of caste like men,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They shrink not from the hunter-boy,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Should not my home be with them then?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Here in this forest let me dwell,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With these companions innocent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And learn each science and each spell</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All by myself in banishment.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A calm, calm life, and it shall be</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Its own exceeding great reward!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No thoughts to vex in all I see,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No jeers to bear or disregard;&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All creatures and inanimate things</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shall be my tutors; I shall learn</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From beast, and fish, and bird with wings,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And rock, and stream, and tree, and fern.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With this resolve, he soon began</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To build a hut, of reeds and leaves,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And when that needful work was done</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He gathered in his store, the sheaves</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of forest corn, and all the fruit,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Date, plum, guava, he could find,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And every pleasant nut and root</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By Providence for man designed,</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A statue next of earth he made,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>An image of the teacher wise,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So deft he laid, the light and shade,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On figure, forehead, face and eyes,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That any one who chanced to view</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That image tall might soothly swear,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If he great Dronacharjya knew,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The teacher in his flesh was there.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then at the statue's feet he placed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A bow, and arrows tipped with steel,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With wild-flower garlands interlaced,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And hailed the figure in his zeal</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As Master, and his head he bowed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A pupil reverent from that hour</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of one who late had disallowed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The claim, in pride of place and power.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By strained sense, by constant prayer,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By steadfastness of heart and will,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By courage to confront and dare,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All obstacles he conquered still;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A conscience clear&mdash;a ready hand,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Joined to a meek humility,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Success must everywhere command,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How could he fail who had all three!</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And now, by tests assured, he knows</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His own God-gifted wondrous might,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nothing to any man he owes,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unaided he has won the fight;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Equal to gods themselves&mdash;above</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wishmo and Drona&mdash;for his worth</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His name, he feels, shall be with love</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Reckoned with great names of the earth.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yet lacks he not, in reverence</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Dronacharjya, who declined</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To teach him&mdash;nay, with e'en offence</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That well might wound a noble mind,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Drove him away;&mdash;for in his heart</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Meek, placable, and ever kind,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Resentment had not any part,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Malice never was enshrined.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One evening, on his work intent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Alone he practised Archery,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When lo! the bow proved false and sent</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The arrow from its mark awry;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Again he tried&mdash;and failed again;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Why was it? Hark!&mdash;A wild dog's bark!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>An evil omen:&mdash;it was plain</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Some evil on his path hung dark!</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus many times he tried and failed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And still that lean, persistent dog</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>At distance, like some spirit wailed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Safe in the cover of a fog.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His nerves unstrung, with many a shout</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He strove to frighten it away,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>It would not go&mdash;but roamed about,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Howling, as wolves howl for their prey.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Worried and almost in a rage,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One magic shaft at last he sent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A sample of his science sage,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To quiet but the noises meant.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unerring to its goal it flew,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No death ensued, no blood was dropped;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But by the hush the young man knew</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>At last that howling noise had stopped.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>It happened on this very day</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That the Pandava princes came</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With all the Kuru princes gay</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To beat the woods and hunt the game.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Parted from others in the chase,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Arjuna brave the wild dog found&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Stuck still the shaft&mdash;but not a trace</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of hurt, though tongue and lip were bound.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Wonder of wonders! Didst not thou</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>O Dronacharjya, promise me</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy crown in time should deck my brow</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And I be first in archery?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lo! here, some other thou hast taught</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A magic spell&mdash;to all unknown;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who has in secret from thee bought</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The knowledge, in this arrow shown!&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Indignant thus Arjuna spake</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To his great Master when they met&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;My word, my honor, is at stake,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Judge not, Arjuna, judge not yet.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Come, let us see the dog &quot;&mdash;and straight</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They followed up the creature's trace.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They found it, in the self-same state,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Dumb, yet unhurt&mdash;near Buttoo's place.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A hut&mdash;<i>a</i> statue&mdash;and a youth</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In the dim forest&mdash;what mean these?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They gazed in wonder, for in sooth</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The thing seemed full of mysteries.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Now who art thou that dar'st to raise</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Mine image in the wilderness?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is it for worship and for praise?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What is thine object? speak, confess,&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Oh Master, unto thee I came</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To learn thy science. Name or pelf</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I had not, so was driven with shame,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And here I learn all by myself.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But still as Master thee revere,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For who so great in archery!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lo, all my inspiration here,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And all my knowledge is from thee.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;If I am Master, now thou hast</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Finished thy course, give me my due.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Let all the past, be dead and past,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Henceforth be ties between us new.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;All that I have, O Master mine,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All I shall conquer by my skill,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gladly shall I to thee resign,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Let me but know thy gracious will,&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Is it a promise?&quot; &quot;Yea, I swear</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So long as I have breath and life</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To give thee all thou wilt,&quot; &quot;Beware!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rash promise ever ends in strife.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Thou art my Master&mdash;ask! oh ask!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From thee my inspiration came,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou canst not set too hard a task,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor aught refuse I, free from blame.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;If it be so&mdash;Arjuna hear!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Arjuna and the youth were dumb,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;For thy sake, loud I ask and clear,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Give me, O youth, thy right-hand thumb.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I promised in my faithfulness</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No equal ever shall there be</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To thee, Arjuna&mdash;and I press</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For this sad recompense&mdash;for thee.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Glanced the sharp knife one moment high,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The severed thumb was on the sod,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>There was no tear in Buttoo's eye,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He left the matter with his God.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;For this&quot;&mdash;said Dronacharjya&mdash;&quot;Fame</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shall sound thy praise from sea to sea,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And men shall ever link thy name</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With Self-help, Truth, and Modesty.&quot;</span><br />
+</div></div>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 65%;' />
+<a name='SINDHU'></a><h2>SINDHU</h2>
+
+<a name='PART_I'></a><h3>PART I</h3>
+
+<div class='poem'><div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Deep in the forest shades there dwelt</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>A <i>Muni</i> and his wife,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Blind, gray-haired, weak, they hourly felt</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Their slender hold on life.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No friends had they, no help or stay,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Except an only boy,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A bright-eyed child, his laughter gay,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Their leaf-hut filled with joy.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Attentive, duteous, loving, kind,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Thoughtful, sedate, and calm,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He waited on his parents blind,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Whose days were like a psalm.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He roamed the woods for luscious fruits,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>He brought them water pure,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He cooked their simple mess of roots,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Content to live obscure.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To fretful questions, answers mild</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>He meekly ever gave,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If they reproved, he only smiled,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>He loved to be their slave.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Not that to him they were austere,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>But age is peevish still,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Dear to their hearts he was&mdash;so dear,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>That none his place might fill.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They called him Sindhu, and his name</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Was ever on their tongue,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And he, nor cared for wealth nor fame,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Who dwelt his own among.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A belt of <i>Bela</i>-trees hemmed round</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The cottage small and rude,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If peace on earth was ever found</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>'Twas in that solitude.</span><br />
+</div></div>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='PART_II'></a><h3>PART II</h3>
+
+
+<div class='poem'><div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Great Dasarath, the King of Oudh,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Whom all men love and fear,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With elephants and horses proud</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Went forth to hunt the deer.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>O gallant was the long array!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Pennons and plumes were seen,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And swords that mirrored back the day,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And spears and axes keen.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rang trump, and conch, and piercing fife,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Woke Echo from her bed!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The solemn woods with sounds were rife</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>As on the pageant sped.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hundreds, nay thousands, on they went!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The wild beasts fled away!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Deer ran in herds, and wild boars spent</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Became an easy prey.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whirring the peacocks from the brake</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>With Argus wings arose,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wild swans abandoned pool and lake</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>For climes beyond the snows.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From tree to tree the monkeys sprung,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Unharmed and unpursued,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As louder still the trumpets rung</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And startled all the wood.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The porcupines and such small game</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Unnoted fled at will,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The weasel only caught to tame</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>From fissures in the hill.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Slunk light the tiger from the bank,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>But sudden turned to bay!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When he beheld the serried rank</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>That barred his tangled way.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Uprooting fig-trees on their path,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And trampling shrubs and flowers,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wild elephants, in fear and wrath,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Burst through, like moving towers.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lowering their horns in crescents grim</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Whene'er they turned about,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Retreated into coverts dim</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The bisons' fiercer rout.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And in this mimic game of war</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>In bands dispersed and passed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The royal train&mdash;some near, some far,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>As day closed in at last.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where was the king? He left his friends</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>At mid-day, it was known,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And now that evening fast descends</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Where was he? All alone.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Curving, the river formed a lake,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Upon whose bank he stood, I</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No noise the silence there to break,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Or mar the solitude.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upon the glassy surface fell</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The last beams of the day,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like fiery darts, that lengthening swell,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>As breezes wake and play.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Osiers and willows on the edge</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And purple buds and red,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Leant down&mdash;and 'mid the pale green sedge</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The lotus raised its head.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And softly, softly, hour by hour</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Light faded, and a veil</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fell over tree, and wave, and flower,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>On came the twilight pale.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Deeper and deeper grew the shades,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Stars glimmered in the sky,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The nightingale along the glades</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Raised her preluding cry.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What is that momentary flash?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>A gleam of silver scales</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Reveals the <i>Mahseer</i>;&mdash;then a splash,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And calm again prevails.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As darkness settled like a pall</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The eye would pierce in vain,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The fireflies gemmed the bushes all,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Like fiery drops of rain.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Pleased with the scene&mdash;and knowing not</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Which way, alas! to go,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The monarch lingered on the spot&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The lake spread bright below.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He lingered, when&mdash;oh hark! oh hark</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>What sound salutes his ear!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A roebuck drinking in the dark,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Not hunted, nor in fear.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Straight to the stretch his bow he drew,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>That bow ne'er missed its aim,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whizzing the deadly arrow flew,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Ear-guided, on the game!</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ah me! What means this?&mdash;Hark, a cry,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>A feeble human wail,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Oh God!&quot; it said&mdash;&quot;I die&mdash;I die,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Who'll carry home the pail?&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Startled, the monarch forward ran,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And then there met his view</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A sight to freeze in any man</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The warm blood coursing true.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A child lay dying on the grass,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>A pitcher by his side,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Poor Sindhu was the child, alas!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>His parents' stay and pride.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His bow and quiver down to fling,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And lift the wounded boy,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A moment's work was with the king.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Not dead&mdash;that was a joy!</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He placed the child's head on his lap,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And 'ranged the blinding hair,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The blood welled fearful from the gap</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>On neck and bosom fair.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He dashed cold water on the face,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>He chafed the hands, with sighs,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Till sense revived, and he could trace</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Expression in the eyes.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then mingled with his pity, fear&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>In all this universe</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What is so dreadful as to hear</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>A Brahman's dying curse!</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So thought the king, and on his brow</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The beads of anguish spread,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Sindhu, fully conscious now,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The anguish plainly read.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;What dost thou fear, O mighty king?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>For sure a king thou art!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Why should thy bosom anguish wring?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>No crime was in thine heart!</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unwittingly the deed was done;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>It is my destiny,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>O fear not thou, but pity one</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Whose fate is thus to die.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No curses, no!&mdash;I bear no grudge,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Not thou my blood hast spilt,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lo! here before the unseen Judge,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Thee I absolve from guilt.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The iron, red-hot as it burns,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Burns those that touch it too,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Not such my nature&mdash;for it spurns,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Thank God, the like to do.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Because I suffer, should I give</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Thee, king, a needless pain?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ah, no! I die, but may'st thou live,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And cleansed from every stain!&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Struck with these words, and doubly grieved</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>At what his hands had done,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The monarch wept, as weeps bereaved</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>A man his only son.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Nay, weep not so,&quot; resumed the child,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>&quot;But rather let me say</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My own sad story, sin-defiled,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And why I die to-day!</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Picking a living in our sheaves,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And happy in their loves,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Near, 'mid a peepul's quivering leaves,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>There lived a pair of doves.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Never were they two separate,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And lo, in idle mood,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I took a sling and ball, elate</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>In wicked sport and rude&mdash;</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And killed one bird&mdash;it was the male,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Oh cruel deed and base!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The female gave a plaintive wail</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And looked me in the face!</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The wail and sad reproachful look</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>In plain words seemed to say,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A widowed life I cannot brook,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The forfeit thou must pay.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What was my darling's crime that thou</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Him wantonly shouldst kill?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The curse of blood is on thee now,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Blood calls for red blood still.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And so I die&mdash;a bloody death&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>But not for this I mourn,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To feel the world pass with my breath</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>I gladly could have borne,</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But for my parents, who are blind,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And have no other stay&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This, this, weighs sore upon my mind,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And fills me with dismay.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upon the eleventh day of the moon</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>They keep a rigorous fast,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All yesterday they fasted; soon</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>For water and repast</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They shall upon me feebly call!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Ah, must they call in vain?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bear thou the pitcher, friend&mdash;'tis all</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>I ask&mdash;down that steep lane.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He pointed&mdash;ceased&mdash;then sudden died!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The king took up the corpse,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And with the pitcher slowly hied,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Attended by Remorse,</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Down the steep lane&mdash;unto the hut</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Girt round with <i>Bela</i>-trees;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gleamed far a light&mdash;the door not shut</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Was open to the breeze.</span><br />
+</div></div>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 25%;' />
+<a name='PART_III'></a><h3>PART III</h3>
+
+
+<div class='poem'><div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Oh why does not our child return?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Too long he surely stays.&quot;&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus to the <i>Muni</i>, blind and stern,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>His partner gently says.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;For fruits and water when he goes</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>He never stays so long,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Oh can it be, beset by foes,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>He suffers cruel wrong?</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Some distance he has gone, I fear,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>A more circuitous round&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yet why should he? The fruits are near,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The river near our bound.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I die of thirst&mdash;it matters not</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>If Sindhu be but safe,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What if he leave us, and this spot,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Poor birds in cages chafe.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Peevish and fretful oft we are&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Ah, no&mdash;that cannot be:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of our blind eyes he is the star,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Without him, what were we?</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Too much he loves us to forsake,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>But something ominous,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Here in my heart, a dreadful ache,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Says, he is gone from us.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Why do my bowels for him yearn,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>What ill has crossed his path?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Blind, helpless, whither shall we turn,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Or how avert the wrath?</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lord of my soul&mdash;what means my pain?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>This horrid terror&mdash;like</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Some cloud that hides a hurricane;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Hang not, O lightning&mdash;strike!&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus while she spake, the king drew near</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>With haggard look and wild,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Weighed down with grief, and pale with fear,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Bearing the lifeless child.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rustled the dry leaves 'neath his foot,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And made an eerie sound,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A neighboring owl began to hoot,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>All else was still around.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>At the first rustle of the leaves</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The <i>Muni</i> answered clear,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Lo, here he is&mdash;oh wherefore grieves</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Thy soul, my partner dear?&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The words distinct, the monarch heard,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>He could no further go,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His nature to its depths was stirred,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>He stopped in speechless woe.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No steps advanced&mdash;the sudden pause</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Attention quickly drew,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rolled sightless orbs to learn the cause,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>But, hark!&mdash;the steps renew.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Where art thou, darling&mdash;why so long</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Hast thou delayed to-night?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>We die of thirst&mdash;we are not strong,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>This fasting kills outright.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Speak to us, dear one&mdash;only speak,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And calm our idle fears,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where hast thou been, and what to seek?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Have pity on these tears.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With head bent low the monarch heard,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Then came a cruel throb</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That tore his heart&mdash;still not a word,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Only a stifled sob!</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;It is not Sindhu&mdash;who art thou?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And where is Sindhu gone?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>There's blood upon thy hands&mdash;avow!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>&quot;There is.&quot;&mdash;&quot;Speak on, speak on,&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The dead child in their arms he placed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And briefly told his tale,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The parents their dead child embraced,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And kissed his forehead pale.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Our hearts are broken. Come, dear wife,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>On earth no more we dwell;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Now welcome Death, and farewell Life,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And thou, O king, farewell!</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>We do not curse thee, God forbid</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>But to my inner eye</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The future is no longer hid,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Thou too shalt like us die.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Die&mdash;for a son's untimely loss!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Die&mdash;with a broken heart!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Now help us to our bed of moss,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And let us both depart.&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upon the moss he laid them down,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And watched beside the bed;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Death gently came and placed a crown</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Upon each reverend head.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where the Sarayu's waves dash free</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Against a rocky bank,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The monarch had the corpses three</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Conveyed by men of rank;</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>There honored he with royal pomp</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Their funeral obsequies&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Incense and sandal, drum and tromp.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And solemn sacrifice.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What is the sequel of the tale?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>How died the king?&mdash;Oh man,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A prophet's words can never fail&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Go, read the Ramayan.</span><br />
+</div></div>
+
+
+<hr style='width: 45%;' />
+<h2>MISCELLANEOUS POEMS</h2>
+<br />
+
+<a name='NEAR_HASTINGS'></a><h3>NEAR HASTINGS</h3>
+
+
+<div class='poem'><div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Near Hastings, on the shingle-beach,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>We loitered at the time</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When ripens on the wall the peach,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The autumn's lovely prime.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Far off&mdash;the sea and sky seemed blent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The day was wholly done,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The distant town its murmurs sent,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Strangers&mdash;we were alone.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>We wandered slow; sick, weary, faint,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Then one of us sat down,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No nature hers, to make complaint;&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The shadows deepened brown.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A lady past&mdash;she was not young,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>But oh! her gentle face</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No painter-poet ever sung,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Or saw such saintlike grace.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She passed us&mdash;then she came again,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Observing at a glance</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That we were strangers; one, in pain&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Then asked&mdash;Were we from France?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>We talked awhile&mdash;some roses red</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>That seemed as wet with tears,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She gave my sister, and she said,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>God bless you both, my dears!&quot;</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sweet were the roses&mdash;sweet and full,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And large as lotus flowers</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That in our own wide tanks we cull</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>To deck our Indian bowers.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But sweeter was the love that gave</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Those flowers to one unknown,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I think that He who came to save</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The gift a debt will own.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The lady's name I do not know,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Her face no more may see,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But yet, oh yet I love her so!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Blest, happy, may she be!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her memory will not depart,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Though grief my years should shade,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Still bloom her roses in my heart!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And they shall never fade!</span><br />
+</div></div><br />
+
+<a name='FRANCE'></a><h3>FRANCE</h3>
+
+<h4><i>1870</i></h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Not dead&mdash;oh no&mdash;she cannot die!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Only a swoon, from loss of blood!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Levite England passes her by,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Help, Samaritan! None is nigh;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Who shall staunch me this sanguine flood?</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Range the brown hair, it blinds her eyne,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Dash cold water over her face!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Drowned in her blood, she makes no sign,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Give her a draught of generous wine.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>None heed, none hear, to do this grace.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Head of the human column, thus</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Ever in swoon wilt thou remain?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thought, Freedom, Truth, quenched ominous</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whence then shall Hope arise for us,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Plunged in the darkness all again.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No, she stirs!&mdash;There's a fire in her glance,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Ware, oh ware of that broken sword!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What, dare ye for an hour's mischance,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gather around her, jeering France,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Attila's own exultant horde?</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lo, she stands up&mdash;stands up e'en now,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Strong once more for the battle-fray,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gleams bright the star, that from her brow</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lightens the world. Bow, nations, bow,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Let her again lead on the way!</span><br />
+</div></div><br />
+
+<a name='THE_TREE_OF_LIFE'></a><h3>THE TREE OF LIFE</h3>
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Broad daylight, with a sense of weariness!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Mine eyes were closed, but I was not asleep,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My hand was in my father's, and I felt</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His presence near me. Thus we often passed</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In silence, hour by hour. What was the need</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of interchanging words when every thought</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That in our hearts arose, was known to each,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And every pulse kept time? Suddenly there shone</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A strange light, and the scene as sudden changed.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I was awake:&mdash;It was an open plain</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Illimitable&mdash;stretching, stretching&mdash;oh, so far!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And o'er it that strange light&mdash;a glorious light</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like that the stars shed over fields of snow</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In a clear, cloudless, frosty winter night,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Only intenser in its brilliance calm.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And in the midst of that vast plain, I saw,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For I was wide awake&mdash;it was no dream,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A tree with spreading branches and with leaves</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of divers kinds&mdash;dead silver and live gold,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Shimmering in radiance that no words may tell!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Beside the tree an Angel stood; he plucked</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A few small sprays, and bound them round my head.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Oh, the delicious touch of those strange leaves!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No longer throbbed my brows, no more I felt</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The fever in my limbs&mdash;&quot;And oh,&quot; I cried,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Bind too my father's forehead with these leaves.&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One leaf the Angel took and therewith touched</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His forehead, and then gently whispered &quot;Nay!&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Never, oh never had I seen a face</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>More beautiful than that Angel's, or more full</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of holy pity and of love divine.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wondering I looked awhile&mdash;then, all at once</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Opened my tear-dimmed eyes&mdash;When lo! the light</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was gone&mdash;the light as of the stars when snow</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lies deep upon the ground. No more, no more,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was seen the Angel's face. I only found</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My father watching patient by my bed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And holding in his own, close-prest, my hand.</span><br />
+</div><br />
+
+<a name='MADAME_THERESE'></a><h3>MADAME TH&Eacute;R&Egrave;SE</h3>
+
+<h4><i>Written on the fly-leaf of Erckmann-Chatrian's novel, entitled, &quot;Madame
+Th&eacute;r&egrave;se</i>.&quot;</h4>
+
+<div class='poem'><div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wavered the foremost soldiers&mdash;then fell back.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fallen was their leader, and loomed right before</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The sullen Prussian cannon, grim and black,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With lighted matches waving. Now, once more,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Patriots and veterans!&mdash;Ah! Tis in vain!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Back they recoil, though bravest of the brave;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No human troops may stand that murderous rain;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But who is this&mdash;that rushes to a grave?</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>It is a woman&mdash;slender, tall, and brown!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She snatches up the standard as it falls&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In her hot haste tumbles her dark hair down,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And to the drummer-boy aloud she calls</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To beat the charge; then forwards on the <i>pont</i></span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They dash together;&mdash;who could bear to see</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A woman and a child, thus Death confront,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor burn to follow them to victory?</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I read the story and my heart beats fast!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Well might all Europe quail before thee, France,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Battling against oppression! Years have passed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yet of that time men speak with moistened glance.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'><i>Va-nu-pieds!</i> When rose high your Marseillaise</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Man knew his rights to earth's remotest bound,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And tyrants trembled. Yours alone the praise!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ah, had a Washington but then been found!</span><br />
+</div></div>
+<br />
+
+<a name='SONNET_a'></a><h3>SONNET</h3>
+
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A sea of foliage girds our garden round,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>But not a sea of dull unvaried green,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Sharp contrasts of all colors here are seen;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The light-green graceful tamarinds abound</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Amid the mango clumps of green profound,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And palms arise, like pillars gray, between;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And o'er the quiet pools the seemuls lean,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Red&mdash;red, and startling like a trumpet's sound.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But nothing can be lovelier than the ranges</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Of bamboos to the eastward, when the moon</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Looks through their gaps, and the white lotus changes</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Into a cup of silver. One might swoon</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 4em;'>Drunken with beauty then, or gaze and gaze</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 4em;'>On a primeval Eden, in amaze.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<br />
+<a name='SONNET_b'></a><h3>SONNET</h3>
+
+
+<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Love came to Flora asking for a flower</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>That would of flowers be undisputed queen,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The lily and the rose, long, long had been</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rivals for that high honor. Bards of power</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Had sung their claims. &quot;The rose can never tower</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Like the pale lily with her Juno mien&quot;&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>&quot;But is the lily lovelier?&quot; Thus between</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Flower-factions rang the strife in Psyche's bower.</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>&quot;Give me a flower delicious as the rose</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And stately as the lily in her pride&quot;&mdash;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>&quot;But of what color?&quot;&mdash;&quot;Rose-red,&quot; Love first chose,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Then prayed&mdash;&quot;No, lily-white&mdash;or, both provide;&quot;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And Flora gave the lotus, &quot;rose-red&quot; dyed,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And &quot;lily-white&quot;&mdash;the queenliest flower that blows.</span><br />
+</div>
+
+<br />
+<a name='OUR_CASUARINA_TREE'></a><h3>OUR CASUARINA-TREE</h3>
+
+<div class='poem'><div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like a huge Python, winding round and round</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The rugged trunk, indented deep with scars</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Up to its very summit near the stars,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A creeper climbs, in whose embraces bound</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>No other tree could live. But gallantly</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The giant wears the scarf, and flowers are hung</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In crimson clusters all the boughs among,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Whereon all day are gathered bird and bee;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And oft at nights the garden overflows</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With one sweet song that seems to have no close,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sung darkling from our tree, while men repose,</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When first my casement is wide open thrown</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>At dawn, my eyes delighted on it rest;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Sometimes, and most in winter&mdash;on its crest</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A gray baboon sits statue-like alone</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Watching the sunrise; while on lower boughs</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His puny offspring leap about and play;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And far and near kokilas hail the day;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And to their pastures wend our sleepy cows;</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And in the shadow, on the broad tank cast</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By that hoar tree, so beautiful and vast,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The water-lilies spring, like snow enmassed.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But not because of its magnificence</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Dear is the Casuarina to my soul:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Beneath it we have played; though years may roll,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>O sweet companions, loved with love intense,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>For your sakes, shall the tree be ever dear!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Blent with your images, it shall arise</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In memory, till the hot tears blind mine eyes!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>What is that dirge-like murmur that I hear</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like the sea breaking on a shingle-beach?</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>It is the tree's lament, an eerie speech,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That haply to the unknown land may reach.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unknown, yet well-known to the eye of faith!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Ah, I have heard that wail far, far away</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>In distant lands, by many a sheltered bay,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When slumbered in his cave the water-wraith</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And the waves gently kissed the classic shore</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of France or Italy, beneath the moon,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When earth lay tranced in a dreamless swoon:</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And every time the music rose&mdash;before</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Mine inner vision rose a form sublime,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy form, O Tree, as in my happy prime</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I saw thee, in my own loved native clime.</span><br />
+</div>
+<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Therefore I fain would consecrate a lay</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Unto thy honor, Tree, beloved of those</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Who now in blessed sleep, for aye, repose,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Dearer than life to me, alas! were they!</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>May'st thou be numbered when my days are done</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With deathless trees&mdash;like those in Borrowdale,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Under whose awful branches lingered pale</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>&quot;Fear, trembling Hope, and Death, the skeleton,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Time, the shadow;&quot; and though weak the verse</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That would thy beauty fain, oh fain rehearse,</span><br />
+<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>May Love defend thee from Oblivion's curse.</span><br />
+</div></div>
+
+<hr style='width: 65%;' />
+
+<h2>FOOTNOTES</h2>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_1"></a><a href="#FNanchor1">[1]</a> &quot;The Lights of Canopus,&quot; a Persian paraphrase; as the &quot;Khirad
+Afroz,&quot; &quot;the lamp of the Understanding,&quot; is in Hindustani.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_2"></a><a href="#FNanchor2">[2]</a> The Vedas are the holy books of India. They are four in number: The
+Rig-Veda, Yajur-Veda, Sama-Veda, and Atharva-Veda.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_3"></a><a href="#FNanchor3">[3]</a> Used in many religious observances by the Hindoos.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_4"></a><a href="#FNanchor4">[4]</a> Heaven, earth, and the lower regions.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_5"></a><a href="#FNanchor5">[5]</a> The Hindoo accounts for the origin of evil by this theory of a
+series of existences continued until the balance is just, and the soul
+has purified itself. Every fault must have its expiation and every
+higher faculty its development; pain and misery being signs of the
+ordeals in the trial, which is to end in the happy re-absorption of the
+emancipated spirit.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_6"></a><a href="#FNanchor6">[6]</a> The mouse, as vehicle of Gunesh, is an important animal in Hindoo
+legend.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_7"></a><a href="#FNanchor7">[7]</a> The champak is a bushy tree, bearing a profusion of star-like
+blossoms with golden centres, and of the most pleasing perfume.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_8"></a><a href="#FNanchor8">[8]</a> A religious observance. The devotee commences the penance at the
+full moon with an allowance of fifteen mouthfuls for his food,
+diminishing this by one mouthful each day, till on the fifteenth it is
+reduced to one. As the new moon increases, his allowance ascends to its
+original proportion.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_9"></a><a href="#FNanchor9">[9]</a> The wife of Vishnoo, Goddess of beauty and abundance.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_10"></a><a href="#FNanchor10">[10]</a> The black or Indian cuckoo.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_11"></a><a href="#FNanchor11">[11]</a> A grove where the Vedas are read and expounded.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_12"></a><a href="#FNanchor12">[12]</a> The white umbrella borne above the heads of Indian rajahs.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_13"></a><a href="#FNanchor13">[13]</a> The deity of prudence.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_14"></a><a href="#FNanchor14">[14]</a> Regal authority derives its rights from three sources: Power,
+Prescription or continuance, and Wisdom.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_15"></a><a href="#FNanchor15">[15]</a> The lotus resembles the water-lily, but is more varied in form and
+color.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_16"></a><a href="#FNanchor16">[16]</a> The peacock is wild in most Indian jungles. The swan is a species
+of flamingo of a white color. The voice and gait of a beautiful woman
+are likened by the Hindoo poets to those of the swan.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_17"></a><a href="#FNanchor17">[17]</a> By such a death as that alluded to, she earns the title of Sati,
+the &quot;excellent.&quot;</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_18"></a><a href="#FNanchor18">[18]</a> The common Indian crane; a graceful white bird, seen everywhere in
+the interior of Hindoostan.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_19"></a><a href="#FNanchor19">[19]</a> A man of military caste.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_20"></a><a href="#FNanchor20">[20]</a> Large branching horns which reach backward and rub upon his
+shoulders.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_21"></a><a href="#FNanchor21">[21]</a> A young Brahman, being invested with the sacred thread, and having
+concluded his studies, becomes of the second order: a householder.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_22"></a><a href="#FNanchor22">[22]</a> Jhillikas are the large wood-crickets</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_23"></a><a href="#FNanchor23">[23]</a> A caravan.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_24"></a><a href="#FNanchor24">[24]</a> This is a secretion which flows by a small orifice from the
+elephant's temples at certain seasons. It is sweet-smelling, and
+constantly alluded to in Hindoo poetry.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_25"></a><a href="#FNanchor25">[25]</a> &quot;Gentleness is chief of virtues.&quot;</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_26"></a><a href="#FNanchor26">[26]</a> These &quot;curls&quot; are the &quot;Arvathas,&quot; or marks of good blood and
+high-breeding.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_27"></a><a href="#FNanchor27">[27]</a> &quot;O Beautiful One!&quot;</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_28"></a><a href="#FNanchor28">[28]</a> This raining down of heavenly flowers on auspicious occasions is a
+frequent incident in ancient Indian poetry.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_29"></a><a href="#FNanchor29">[29]</a> A short; broad-bladed sword.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_30"></a><a href="#FNanchor30">[30]</a> Nandana is the Paradise of Indra.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_31"></a><a href="#FNanchor31">[31]</a> Ancient name of India: &quot;The Land of the Rose-apple Tree.&quot;</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_32"></a><a href="#FNanchor32">[32]</a> Ceylon.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_33"></a><a href="#FNanchor33">[33]</a> The speed of the chariot resembled that of the wind and the sun.
+Indra was the god of the firmament or atmosphere. The sun, in Hindoo
+mythology, is represented as seated in a chariot drawn by seven green
+horses, having before him a lovely youth without legs, who acts as
+charioteer, and who is Aruna, or the Dawn personified.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_34"></a><a href="#FNanchor34">[34]</a> The Matron or Superior of the female part of the society of
+hermits. Their authority resembled that of an abbess in a convent of
+nuns.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_35"></a><a href="#FNanchor35">[35]</a> A grass held sacred by the Hindoos and freely used at their
+religious ceremonies. Its leaves are very long and taper to a
+needle-like point.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_36"></a><a href="#FNanchor36">[36]</a> The religious rites of holy men were often disturbed by certain
+evil spirits called R&aacute;kshasas, who were the determined enemies of piety
+and devotion.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_37"></a><a href="#FNanchor37">[37]</a> Vishnu, the Preserver, was one of the three principal gods.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_38"></a><a href="#FNanchor38">[38]</a> K&aacute;ma, the Hindoo Cupid, or god of love. He has five arrows, each
+tipped with the blossom of a flower, which pierce the heart through the
+five senses.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_39"></a><a href="#FNanchor39">[39]</a> A marriage without the usual ceremonies is called G&aacute;ndharva. It was
+supposed to be the form of marriage prevalent among the nymphs of
+Indra's heaven.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_40"></a><a href="#FNanchor40">[40]</a> The sandal-tree is a large kind of myrtle, with pointed leaves. The
+wood affords many highly esteemed perfumes and is celebrated for its
+delicious scent. It is chiefly found on the slopes of the Malay
+mountains or Western Ghants, on the Malabar coast.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_41"></a><a href="#FNanchor41">[41]</a> The K&ouml;il is the Indian cuckoo. It is sometimes called Parabhrita
+(nourished by another) because the female is known to leave her eggs in
+the nest of the crow to be hatched. The bird is a great favorite with
+the Indian poets, as the nightingale with Europeans.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_42"></a><a href="#FNanchor42">[42]</a> Palace of King Dushyanta, so-called because it was as lofty as the
+clouds.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_43"></a><a href="#FNanchor43">[43]</a> A sacred range of mountains lying along the Him&aacute;laya chain
+immediately adjacent to Kail&aacute;sa, the paradise of Kuvera, the god of
+wealth.</p>
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_44"></a><a href="#FNanchor44">[44]</a> According to the mythical geography of the Hindoos the earth
+consisted of seven islands surrounded by seven seas.</p>
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+<pre>
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Hindu Literature, by Epiphanius Wilson
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+</html>
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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of Hindu Literature, by Epiphanius Wilson
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: Hindu Literature
+
+Author: Epiphanius Wilson
+
+Release Date: August 24, 2004 [EBook #13268]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK HINDU LITERATURE ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Juliet Sutherland, Susan Skinner and the Online
+Distributed Proofreading Team.
+
+
+
+
+
+HINDU LITERATURE
+
+COMPRISING
+
+THE BOOK OF GOOD COUNSELS, NALA AND DAMAYANTI, THE RAMAYANA AND
+SAKOONTALA
+
+WITH CRITICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES BY
+
+EPIPHANIUS WILSON, A.M.
+
+REVISED EDITION
+
+NEW YORK
+
+P.F. COLLIER & SON
+
+COPYRIGHT, 1900
+
+BY THE COLONIAL PRESS
+
+CONTENTS
+
+THE BOOK OF GOOD COUNSELS
+
+Translator's Preface
+
+Introduction
+
+THE WINNING OF FRIENDS
+  The Story of the Jackal, Deer, and Crow
+  The Story of the Vulture, the Cat, and the Birds
+  The Story of the Dead Game and the Jackal
+  The Prince and the Wife of the Merchant's Son
+  The Story of the Old Jackal and the Elephant
+
+THE PARTING OF FRIENDS
+  The Story of the Lion, the Jackals, and the Bull
+  The Story of the Monkey and the Wedge
+  The Story of the Washerman's Jackass
+  The Story of the Cat who Served the Lion
+  The Story of the Terrible Bell
+  The Story of the Prince and the Procuress
+  The Story of the Black Snake and the Golden Chain
+  The Story of the Lion and the Old Hare
+  The Story of the Wagtail and the Sea
+
+WAR
+  The Battle of the Swans and Peacocks
+  The Story of the Weaver-Birds and the Monkeys
+  The Story of the Old Hare and the Elephants
+  The Story of the Heron and the Crow
+  The Story of the Appeased Wheelwright
+  The Story of the Dyed Jackal
+  The Story of the Faithful Rajpoot
+
+PEACE
+  The Treaty Between the Peacocks and the Swans
+  The Story of the Tortoise and the Geese
+  The Story of Fate and the Three Fishes
+  The Story of the Unabashed Wife
+  The Story of the Herons and the Mongoose
+  The Story of the Recluse and the Mouse
+  The Story of the Crane and the Crab
+  The Story of the Brahman and the Pans
+  The Duel of the Giants
+  The Story of the Brahman and the Goat
+  The Story of the Camel, the Lion, and His Court
+  The Story of the Frogs and the Old Serpent
+
+NALA AND DAMAYANTI
+
+Introduction
+NALA AND DAMAYANTI.--
+  Part I
+  Part II
+
+SELECTIONS FROM THE RAMAYANA
+
+Introduction
+Invocation
+BOOK I.--
+    CANTO
+     I.--Narad
+         [_Cantos II., III., IV., and V. are omitted_]
+    VI.--The King
+   VII.--The Ministers
+  VIII.--Sumantra's Speech
+    IX.--Rishyasring
+     X.--Rishyasring Invited
+    XI.--The Sacrifice Decreed
+   XII.--The Sacrifice Begun
+  XIII.--The Sacrifice Finished
+   XIV.--Ravan Doomed
+    XV.--The Nectar
+   XVI.--The Vanars
+  XVII.--Rishyasring's Return
+ XVIII.--Rishyasring's Departure
+   XIX.--The Birth of the Princes
+    XX.--Visvamitra's Visit
+   XXI.--Visvamitra's Speech
+  XXII.--Dasaratha's Speech
+ XXIII.--Vasishtha's Speech
+  XXIV.--The Spells
+   XXV.--The Hermitage of Love
+  XXVI.--The Forest of Tadaka
+ XXVII.--The Birth of Tadaka
+XXVIII.--The Death of Tadaka
+  XXIX.--The Celestial Arms
+   XXX.--The Mysterious Powers
+  XXXI.--The Perfect Hermitage
+ XXXII.--Visvamitra's Sacrifice
+XXXIII.--The Sone
+ XXXIV.--Brahmadatta
+  XXXV.--Visvamitra's Lineage
+ XXXVI.--The Birth of Ganga
+      [_Cantos XXXVII. and XXXVIII. are omitted_]
+ XXXIX.--The Son of Sagar
+    XL.--The Cleaving of the Earth
+   XLI.--Kapil
+  XLII.--Sagar's Sacrifice
+ XLIII.--Bhagirath
+
+SAKOONTALA
+
+Introduction
+Dramatis Personae
+Rules for Pronunciation of Proper Names
+Prologue
+Act First
+Act Second
+Prelude to Act Third
+Act Third
+Prelude to Act Fourth
+Act Fourth
+Act Fifth
+Prelude to Act Sixth
+Act Sixth
+Act Seventh
+
+POEMS BY TORU DUTT
+
+Introduction
+BALLADS OF HINDOSTAN.--
+  Jogadhya Uma
+  Buttoo
+  Sindhu.--
+    Part I
+    Part II
+    Part III
+MISCELLANEOUS POEMS.--
+  Near Hastings
+  France
+  The Tree of Life
+  Madame Therese
+  Sonnet
+  Sonnet
+  Our Casuarina-Tree
+
+
+
+
+THE BOOK OF GOOD COUNSELS
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+SELECTED FROM
+
+THE HITOPADESA
+
+[_Translated from the Sanscrit by Sir Edwin Arnold_]
+
+TRANSLATOR'S PREFACE
+
+A story-book from the Sanscrit at least possesses the minor merit of
+novelty. The "perfect language" has been hitherto regarded as the
+province of scholars, and few of these even have found time or taste to
+search its treasures. And yet among them is the key to the heart of
+modern India--as well as the splendid record of her ancient Gods and
+glories. The hope of Hindostan lies in the intelligent interest of
+England. Whatever avails to dissipate misconceptions between them, and
+to enlarge their intimacy, is a gain to both peoples; and to this end
+the present volume aspires, in an humble degree, to contribute.
+
+The "Hitopadesa" is a work of high antiquity, and extended popularity.
+The prose is doubtless as old as our own era; but the intercalated
+verses and proverbs compose a selection from writings of an age
+extremely remote. The "Mahabharata" and the textual Veds are of those
+quoted; to the first of which Professor M. Williams (in his admirable
+edition of the "Nala," 1860) assigns a date of 350 B.C., while he claims
+for the "Rig-Veda" an antiquity as high as B.C. 1300. The "Hitopadesa"
+may thus be fairly styled "The Father of all Fables"; for from its
+numerous translations have come AEsop and Pilpay, and in later days
+Reineke Fuchs. Originally compiled in Sanscrit, it was rendered, by
+order of Nushiravan, in the sixth century, A.D., into Persic. From the
+Persic it passed, A.D. 850, into the Arabic, and thence into Hebrew and
+Greek. In its own land it obtained as wide a circulation. The Emperor
+Acbar, impressed with the wisdom of its maxims and the ingenuity of its
+apologues, commended the work of translating it to his own Vizir, Abdul
+Fazel. That minister accordingly put the book into a familiar style, and
+published it with explanations, under the title of the "Criterion of
+Wisdom." The Emperor had also suggested the abridgment of the long
+series of shlokes which here and there interrupt the narrative, and the
+Vizir found this advice sound, and followed it, like the present
+Translator. To this day, in India, the "Hitopadesa," under other names
+(as the "Anvari Suhaili"[1]), retains the delighted attention of young
+and old, and has some representative in all the Indian vernaculars. A
+work so well esteemed in the East cannot be unwelcome to Western
+readers, who receive it here, a condensed but faithful transcript of
+sense and manner.
+
+As often as an Oriental allusion, or a name in Hindoo mythology, seemed
+to ask some explanation for the English reader, notes have been
+appended, bearing reference to the page. In their compilation, and
+generally, acknowledgment is due to Professor Johnson's excellent
+version and edition of the "Hitopadesa," and to Mr. Muir's "Sanscrit
+Texts."
+
+A residence in India, and close intercourse with the Hindoos, have given
+the author a lively desire to subserve their advancement. No one listens
+now to the precipitate ignorance which would set aside as "heathenish"
+the high civilization of this great race; but justice is not yet done to
+their past development and present capacities. If the wit, the morality,
+and the philosophy of these "beasts of India" (so faithfully rendered by
+Mr. Harrison Weir) surprise any vigorous mind into further exploration
+of her literature, and deeper sense of our responsibility in her
+government, the author will be repaid.
+
+EDWIN ARNOLD.
+
+[1] "The Lights of Canopus," a Persian paraphrase; as the "Khirad
+Afroz," "the lamp of the Understanding," is in Hindustani.
+
+
+
+
+THE BOOK OF GOOD COUNSELS
+
+INTRODUCTION
+
+
+HONOR TO GUNESH, GOD OF WISDOM
+
+    This book of Counsel read, and you shall see,
+    Fair speech and Sanscrit lore, and Policy.
+
+ON the banks of the holy river Ganges there stood a city named
+Pataliputra. The King of it was a good King and a virtuous, and his name
+was Sudarsana. It chanced one day that he overheard a certain person
+reciting these verses--
+
+    "Wise men, holding wisdom highest, scorn delights, as false as fair,
+    Daily live they as Death's fingers twined already in their hair.
+
+    Truly, richer than all riches, better than the best of gain,
+    Wisdom is, unbought, secure--once won, none loseth her again.
+
+    Bringing dark things into daylight, solving doubts that vex the mind,
+    Like an open eye is Wisdom--he that hath her not is blind."
+
+Hearing these the King became disquieted, knowing that his own sons were
+gaining no wisdom, nor reading the Sacred Writings,[2] but altogether
+going in the wrong way; and he repeated this verse to himself--
+
+    "Childless art thou? dead thy children? leaving thee to want and dool?
+    Less thy misery than his is, who is father to a fool."
+
+And again this--
+
+    "One wise son makes glad his father, forty fools avail him not:--
+    One moon silvers all that darkness which the silly stars did dot."
+
+"And it has been said," reflected he--
+
+    "Ease and health, obeisant children, wisdom, and a fair-voiced wife--
+    Thus, great King! are counted up the five felicities of life.
+    For the son the sire is honored; though the bow-cane bendeth true,
+    Let the strained string crack in using, and what service shall it do?"
+
+"Nevertheless," mused the King, "I know it is urged that human efforts
+are useless: as, for instance--
+
+    "That which will not be, will not be--and what is to be, will be:--
+    Why not drink this easy physic, antidote of misery?"
+
+"But then that comes from idleness, with people who will not do what
+they should do. Rather,
+
+    "Nay! and faint not, idly sighing, 'Destiny is mightiest,'
+    Sesamum holds oil in plenty, but it yieldeth none unpressed.
+    Ah! it is the Coward's babble, 'Fortune taketh, Fortune gave;'
+    Fortune! rate her like a master, and she serves thee like a slave."
+
+"For indeed,
+
+    "Twofold is the life we live in--Fate and Will together run:--
+    Two wheels bear life's chariot onward--will it move on only one?"
+
+"And
+
+    "Look! the clay dries into iron, but the potter moulds the clay:--
+    Destiny to-day is master--Man was master yesterday."
+
+"So verily,
+
+    "Worthy ends come not by wishing. Wouldst thou? Up, and win it, then!
+    While the hungry lion slumbers, not a deer comes to his den."
+
+Having concluded his reflections, the Raja gave orders to assemble a
+meeting of learned men. Then said he--
+
+"Hear now, O my Pundits! Is there one among you so wise that he will
+undertake to give the second birth of Wisdom to these my sons, by
+teaching them the Books of Policy; for they have never yet read the
+Sacred Writings, and are altogether going in the wrong road; and ye know
+that
+
+    "Silly glass, in splendid settings, something of the gold may gain;
+    And in company of wise ones, fools to wisdom may attain."
+
+Then uprose a great Sage, by name Vishnu-Sarman, learned in the
+principles of Policy as is the angel of the planet Jupiter himself, and
+he said--
+
+"My Lord King, I will undertake to teach these princes Policy, seeing
+they are born of a great house; for--
+
+    "Labors spent on the unworthy, of reward the laborer balk;
+    Like the parrot, teach the heron twenty times, he will not talk."
+
+"But in this royal family the offspring are royal-minded, and in six
+moons I will engage to make your Majesty's sons comprehend Policy."
+
+The Raja replied, with condescension:--
+
+    "On the eastern mountains lying, common things shine in the sun,
+    And by learned minds enlightened, lower minds may show as one."
+
+"And you, worshipful sir, are competent to teach my children the rules
+of Policy."
+
+So saying, with much graciousness, he gave the Princes into the charge
+of Vishnu-Sarman; and that sage, by way of introduction, spake to the
+Princes, as they sat at ease on the balcony of the palace, in this
+wise:--
+
+"Hear now, my Princes! for the delectation of your Highnesses, I purpose
+to tell the tale of the Crow, the Tortoise, the Deer, and the Mouse."
+
+"Pray, sir," said the King's sons, "let us hear it."
+
+Vishnu-Sarman answered--
+
+"It begins with the Winning of Friends; and this is the first verse of
+it:--
+
+    "Sans way or wealth, wise friends their purpose gain--
+    The Mouse, Crow, Deer, and Tortoise make this plain."
+
+
+[2] The Vedas are the holy books of India. They are four in number: The
+Rig-Veda, Yajur-Veda, Sama-Veda, and Atharva-Veda.
+
+
+
+
+THE WINNING OF FRIENDS
+
+
+    Sans way or wealth, wise friends their purpose gain--
+    The Mouse, Crow, Deer, and Tortoise make this plain."
+
+"However was that?" asked the Princes.
+
+Vishnu-Sarman replied:--
+
+"On the banks of the Godavery there stood a large silk-cotton-tree, and
+thither at night, from all quarters and regions, the birds came to
+roost. Now once, when the night was just spent, and his Radiance the
+Moon, Lover of the white lotus, was about to retire behind the western
+hills, a Crow who perched there, 'Light o' Leap' by name, upon
+awakening, saw to his great wonder a fowler approaching--a second God of
+Death. The sight set him reflecting, as he flew off uneasily to follow
+up the man's movements, and he began to think what mischief this
+ill-omened apparition foretold.
+
+    "For a thousand thoughts of sorrow, and a hundred things of dread,
+    By the wise unheeded, trouble day by day the foolish head."
+
+And yet in this life it must be that
+
+    "Of the day's impending dangers, Sickness, Death, and Misery,
+    One will be; the wise man waking, ponders which that one will be."
+
+Presently the fowler fixed a net, scattered grains of rice about, and
+withdrew to hide. At this moment "Speckle-neck," King of the Pigeons,
+chanced to be passing through the sky with his Court, and caught sight
+of the rice-grains. Thereupon the King of the Pigeons asked of his
+rice-loving followers, 'How can there possibly be rice-grains lying here
+in an unfrequented forest? We will see into it, of course, but We like
+not the look of it--love of rice may ruin us, as the Traveller was
+ruined.
+
+    "All out of longing for a golden bangle,
+    The Tiger, in the mud, the man did mangle."
+
+"How did that happen?" asked the Pigeons.
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE TIGER AND THE TRAVELLER
+
+"Thus," replied Speckle-neck: "I was pecking about one day in the Deccan
+forest, and saw an old tiger sitting newly bathed on the bank of a pool,
+like a Brahman, and with holy kuskus-grass[3] in his paws.
+
+'Ho! ho! ye travellers,' he kept calling out, 'take this golden bangle!'
+
+Presently a covetous fellow passed by and heard him.
+
+'Ah!' thought he, 'this is a bit of luck--but I must not risk my neck
+for it either.
+
+    "Good things come not out of bad things; wisely leave a longed-for ill.
+    Nectar being mixed with poison serves no purpose but to kill."
+
+'But all gain is got by risk, so I will see into it at least;' then he
+called out, 'Where is thy bangle?'
+
+The Tiger stretched forth his paw and exhibited it.
+
+'Hem!' said the Traveller, 'can I trust such a fierce brute as thou
+art?'
+
+'Listen,' replied the Tiger, 'once, in the days of my cub-hood, I know I
+was very wicked. I killed cows, Brahmans, and men without number--and I
+lost my wife and children for it--and haven't kith or kin left. But
+lately I met a virtuous man who counselled me to practise the duty of
+almsgiving--and, as thou seest, I am strict at ablutions and alms.
+Besides, I am old, and my nails and fangs are gone--so who would
+mistrust me? and I have so far conquered selfishness, that I keep the
+golden bangle for whoso comes. Thou seemest poor! I will give it thee.
+Is it not said,
+
+    'Give to poor men, son of Kunti--on the wealthy waste not wealth;
+    Good are simples for the sick man, good for nought to him in health.'
+
+'Wade over the pool, therefore, and take the bangle,'
+
+Thereupon the covetous Traveller determined to trust him, and waded into
+the pool, where he soon found himself plunged in mud, and unable to
+move.
+
+'Ho! ho!' says the Tiger, 'art thou stuck in a slough? stay, I will
+fetch thee out!'
+
+So saying he approached the wretched man and seized him--who meanwhile
+bitterly reflected--
+
+    'Be his Scripture-learning wondrous, yet the cheat will be a cheat;
+    Be her pasture ne'er so bitter, yet the cow's milk will be sweet.'
+
+And on that verse, too--
+
+    'Trust not water, trust not weapons; trust not clawed nor horned
+    things;
+    Neither give thy soul to women, nor thy life to Sons of Kings.'
+
+And those others--
+
+    'Look! the Moon, the silver roamer, from whose splendor darkness flies
+    With his starry cohorts marching, like a crowned king through the
+            skies.
+    All the grandeur, all the glory, vanish in the Dragon's jaw;
+    What is written on the forehead, that will be, and nothing more,'
+
+Here his meditations were cut short by the Tiger devouring him. "And
+that," said Speckle-neck, "is why we counselled caution."
+
+"Why, yes!" said a certain pigeon, with some presumption, "but you've
+read the verse--
+
+    'Counsel in danger; of it
+      Unwarned, be nothing begun.
+    But nobody asks a Prophet
+      Shall the risk of a dinner be run?'
+
+Hearing that, the Pigeons settled at once; for we know that
+
+    "Avarice begetteth anger; blind desires from her begin;
+    A right fruitful mother is she of a countless spawn of sin.'
+
+And again,
+
+    'Can a golden Deer have being? yet for such the Hero pined:--
+    When the cloud of danger hovers, then its shadow dims the mind.'
+
+Presently they were caught in the net. Thereat, indeed, they all began
+to abuse the pigeon by whose suggestion they had been ensnared. It is
+the old tale!
+
+    "Be second and not first!--the share's the same
+    If all go well. If not, the Head's to blame."
+
+And we should remember that
+
+    "Passion will be Slave or Mistress: follow her, she brings to woe;
+    Lead her, 'tis the way to Fortune. Choose the path that thou wilt go."
+
+When King Speckle-neck heard their reproaches, he said, "No, no! it is
+no fault of his.
+
+'When the time of trouble cometh, friends may ofttimes irk us most: For
+the calf at milking-hour the mother's leg is tying-post.'
+
+'And in disaster, dismay is a coward's quality; let us rather rely on
+fortitude, and devise some remedy. How saith the sage?
+
+    "In good fortune not elated, in ill-fortune not dismayed,
+    Ever eloquent in council, never in the fight affrayed--
+    Proudly emulous of honor, steadfastly on wisdom set;
+    Perfect virtues in the nature of a noble soul are met.
+    Whoso hath them, gem and glory of the three wide worlds[4] is he;
+    Happy mother she that bore him, she who nursed him on her knee."
+
+"Let us do this now directly," continued the King: "at one moment and
+with one will, rising under the net, let us fly off with it: for indeed
+
+    'Small things wax exceeding mighty, being cunningly combined:--
+    Furious elephants are fastened with a rope of grass-blades twined.'
+
+"And it is written, you know,
+
+    'Let the household hold together, though the house be ne'er so small;
+    Strip the rice-husk from the rice-grain, and it groweth not at all.'
+
+Having pondered this advice, the Pigeons adopted it; and flew away with
+the net. At first the fowler, who was at a distance, hoped to recover
+them, but as they passed out of sight with the snare about them he gave
+up the pursuit. Perceiving this, the Pigeons said,
+
+"What is the next thing to be done, O King?"
+
+"A friend of mine," said Speckle-neck, "lives near in a beautiful forest
+on the Gundaki. Golden-skin is his name--the King of the Mice--he is the
+one to cut these bonds."
+
+Resolving to have recourse to him, they directed their flight to the
+hole of Golden-skin--a prudent monarch, who dreaded danger so much that
+he had made himself a palace with a hundred outlets, and lived always in
+it. Sitting there he heard the descent of the pigeons, and remained
+silent and alarmed.
+
+"Friend Golden-skin," cried the King, "have you no welcome for us?"
+
+"Ah, my friend!" said the Mouse-king, rushing out on recognizing the
+voice, "is it thou art come, Speckle-neck! how delightful!--But what is
+this?" exclaimed he, regarding the entangled net.
+
+"That," said King Speckle-neck, "is the effect of some wrong-doing in a
+former life--
+
+    'Sickness, anguish, bonds, and woe
+    Spring from wrongs wrought long ago,'[5]
+
+Golden-skin, without replying, ran at once to the net, and began to gnaw
+the strings that held Speckle-neck.
+
+"Nay! friend, not so," said the King, "cut me first these meshes from my
+followers, and afterwards thou shalt sever mine."
+
+"I am little," answered Golden-skin, "and my teeth are weak--how can I
+gnaw so much? No! no! I will nibble your strings as long as my teeth
+last, and afterwards do my best for the others. To preserve dependents
+by sacrificing oneself is nowhere enjoined by wise moralists; on the
+contrary--
+
+    'Keep wealth for want, but spend-it for thy wife,
+    And wife, and wealth, and all to guard thy life,'
+
+"Friend," replied King Speckle-neck, "that may be the rule of policy,
+but I am one that can by no means bear to witness the distress of those
+who depend on me, for--
+
+    'Death, that must come, comes nobly when we give
+    Our wealth, and life, and all, to make men live,'
+
+And you know the verse,
+
+    'Friend, art thou faithful? guard mine honor so!
+    And let the earthy rotting body go,'"
+
+When King Golden-skin heard this answer his heart was charmed, and his
+fur bristled up for pure pleasure. "Nobly spoken, friend," said he,
+"nobly spoken! with such a tenderness for those that look to thee, the
+Sovereignty of the Three Worlds might be fitly thine." So saying he set
+himself to cut all their bonds. This done, and the pigeons extricated,
+the King of the Mice[6] gave them his formal welcome. "But, your
+Majesty," he said, "this capture in the net was a work of destiny; you
+must not blame yourself as you did, and suspect a former fault. Is it
+not written--
+
+    'Floating on his fearless pinions, lost amid the noon-day skies,
+    Even thence the Eagle's vision kens the carcase where it lies;
+    But the hour that comes to all things comes unto the Lord of Air,
+    And he rushes, madly blinded, to his ruin in the snare,'"
+
+With this correction Golden-skin proceeded to perform the duties of
+hospitality, and afterwards, embracing and dismissing them, the pigeons
+left for such destination as they fancied, and the King of the Mice
+retired again into his hole.
+
+Now Light o' Leap, the Crow, had been a spectator of the whole
+transaction, and wondered at it so much that at last he called out, "Ho!
+Golden-skin, thou very laudable Prince, let me too be a friend of thine,
+and give me thy friendship."
+
+"Who art thou?" said Golden-skin, who heard him, but would not come out
+of his hole.
+
+"I am the Crow Light o' Leap," replied the other.
+
+"How can I possibly be on good terms with thee?" answered Golden-skin
+with a laugh; "have you never read--
+
+    'When Food is friends with Feeder, look for Woe,
+    The Jackal ate the Deer, but for the Crow,'
+
+"No! how was that?"
+
+"I will tell thee," replied Golden-skin:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE JACKAL, DEER, AND CROW
+
+"Far away in Behar there is a forest called Champak-Grove,[7] and in it
+had long lived in much affection a Deer and a Crow. The Deer, roaming
+unrestrained, happy and fat of carcase, was one day descried by a
+Jackal. 'Ho! ho!' thought the Jackal on observing him, 'if I could but
+get this soft meat for a meal! It might be--if I can only win his
+confidence,' Thus reflecting he approached, and saluted him.
+
+'Health be to thee, friend Deer!'
+
+'Who art thou?' said the Deer.
+
+'I'm Small-wit, the Jackal,' replied the other. 'I live in the wood
+here, as the dead do, without a friend; but now that I have met with
+such a friend as thou, I feel as if I were beginning life again with
+plenty of relations. Consider me your faithful servant.'
+
+'Very well,' said the Deer; and then, as the glorious King of Day, whose
+diadem is the light, had withdrawn himself, the two went together to the
+residence of the Deer. In that same spot, on a branch of Champak, dwelt
+the Crow Sharp-sense, an old friend of the Deer. Seeing them approach
+together, the Crow said,
+
+'Who is this number two, friend Deer?'
+
+'It is a Jackal,' answered the Deer, 'that desires our acquaintance.'
+
+'You should not become friendly to a stranger without reason,' said
+Sharp-sense. 'Don't you know?'
+
+    "To folks by no one known house-room deny:--
+    The Vulture housed the Cat, and thence did die."
+
+'No! how was that?' said both.
+
+'In this wise,' answered the Crow.
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE VULTURE, THE CAT, AND THE BIRDS
+
+"On the banks of the Ganges there is a cliff called Vulture-Crag, and
+thereupon grew a great fig-tree. It was hollow, and within its shelter
+lived an old Vulture, named Grey-pate, whose hard fortune it was to have
+lost both eyes and talons. The birds that roosted in the tree made
+subscriptions from their own store, out of sheer pity for the poor
+fellow, and by that means he managed to live. One day, when the old
+birds were gone, Long-ear, the Cat, came there to get a meal of the
+nestlings; and they, alarmed at perceiving him, set up a chirruping that
+roused Grey-pate.
+
+'Who comes there?' croaked Grey-pate.
+
+"Now Long-ear, on espying the Vulture, thought himself undone; but as
+flight was impossible, he resolved to trust his destiny and approach.
+
+'My lord,' said he, 'I have the honor to salute thee.'
+
+'Who is it?' said the Vulture.
+
+'I am a Cat,'
+
+'Be off, Cat, or I shall slay thee,' said the Vulture.
+
+'I am ready to die if I deserve death,' answered the Cat; 'but let what
+I have to say be heard,'
+
+'Wherefore, then, comest thou?' said the Vulture.
+
+'I live,' began Long-ear, 'on the Ganges, bathing, and eating no flesh,
+practising the moon-penance,[8] like a Bramacharya. The birds that
+resort thither constantly praise your worship to me as one wholly given
+to the study of morality, and worthy of all trust; and so I came here to
+learn law from thee, Sir, who art so deep gone in learning and in years.
+Dost thou, then, so read the law of strangers as to be ready to slay a
+guest? What say the books about the householder?--
+
+    'Bar thy door not to the stranger, be he friend or be he foe,
+    For the tree will shade the woodman while his axe doth lay it low,'
+
+And if means fail, what there is should be given with kind words, as--
+
+    'Greeting fair, and room to rest in; fire, and water from the well--
+    Simple gifts--are given freely in the house where good men dwell,'--
+
+and without respect of person--
+
+    'Young, or bent with many winters; rich, or poor, whate'er thy guest,
+    Honor him for thine own honor--better is he than the best,'
+
+Else comes the rebuke--
+
+    'Pity them that ask thy pity: who art thou to stint thy hoard,
+    When the holy moon shines equal on the leper and the lord!'
+
+And that other, too,
+
+    'When thy gate is roughly fastened, and the asker turns away,
+    Thence he bears thy good deeds with him, and his sins on thee doth lay
+
+For verily,
+
+    'In the house the husband ruleth, men the Brahmans "master" call;
+    Agni is the Twice-born Master--but the guest is lord of all,'
+
+"To these weighty words Grey-pate answered,
+
+'Yes! but cats like meat, and there are young birds here, and therefore
+I said, go,'
+
+'Sir,' said the Cat (and as he spoke he touched the ground, and then his
+two ears, and called on Krishna to witness to his words), 'I that have
+overcome passion, and practised the moon-penance, know the Scriptures;
+and howsoever they contend, in this primal duty of abstaining from
+injury they are unanimous. Which of them sayeth not--
+
+    'He who does and thinks no wrong--
+    He who suffers, being strong--
+    He whose harmlessness men know--
+    Unto Swerga such doth go.'
+
+"And so, winning the old Vulture's confidence, Long-ear, the Cat,
+entered the hollow tree and lived there. And day after day he stole away
+some of the nestlings, and brought them down to the hollow to devour.
+Meantime the parent birds, whose little ones were being eaten, made an
+inquiry after them in all quarters; and the Cat, discovering this fact,
+slipped out from the hollow, and made his escape. Afterwards, when the
+birds came to look closely, they found the bones of their young ones in
+the hollow of the tree where Grey-pate lived; and the birds at once
+concluded that their nestlings had been killed and eaten by the old
+Vulture, whom they accordingly executed. That is my story, and why I
+warned you against unknown acquaintances."
+
+"Sir," said the Jackal, with some warmth, "on the first day of your
+encountering the Deer you also were of unknown family and character: how
+is it, then, that your friendship with him grows daily greater? True, I
+am only Small-wit, the Jackal, but what says the saw?--
+
+    "In the land where no wise men are, men of little wit are lords;
+    And the castor-oil's a tree, where no tree else its shade affords."
+
+The Deer is my friend; condescend, sir, to be my friend also."
+
+'Oh!' broke in the Deer, 'why so much talking? We'll all live together,
+and be friendly and happy--
+
+    'Foe is friend, and friend is foe,
+    As our actions make them so,'
+
+"Very good," said Sharp-sense; "as you will;" and in the morning each
+started early for his own feeding-ground (returning at night). One day
+the Jackal drew the Deer aside, and whispered, 'Deer, in one corner of
+this wood there is a field full of sweet young wheat; come and let me
+show you.' The Deer accompanied him, and found the field, and afterwards
+went every day there to eat the green corn, till at last the owner of
+the ground spied him and set a snare. The Deer came again very shortly,
+and was caught in it, and (after vainly struggling) exclaimed, 'I am
+fast in the net, and it will be a net of death to me if no friend comes
+to rescue me!' Presently Small-wit, the Jackal, who had been lurking
+near, made his appearance, and standing still, he said to himself, with
+a chuckle, 'O ho! my scheme bears fruit! When he is cut up, his bones,
+and gristle, and blood, will fall to my share and make me some beautiful
+dinners,' The Deer, here catching sight of him, exclaimed with rapture,
+'Ah, friend, this is excellent! Do but gnaw these strings, and I shall
+be at liberty. How charming to realize the saying!--
+
+    'That friend only is the true friend who is near when trouble comes;
+    That man only is the brave man who can bear the battle-drums;
+    Words are wind; deed proveth promise: he who helps at need is kin;
+    And the leal wife is loving though the husband lose or win,'
+
+And is it not written--
+
+    'Friend and kinsman--more their meaning than the idle-hearted mind.
+    Many a friend can prove unfriendly, many a kinsman less than kind:
+    He who shares his comrade's portion, be he beggar, be he lord,
+    Comes as truly, comes as duly, to the battle as the board--
+    Stands before the king to succor, follows to the pile to sigh--
+    He is friend, and he is kinsman--less would make the name a lie.'
+
+"Small-wit answered nothing, but betook himself to examining the snare
+very closely.
+
+'This will certainly hold,' muttered he; then, turning to the Deer, he
+said, 'Good friend, these strings, you see, are made of sinew, and
+to-day is a fast-day, so that I cannot possibly bite them. To-morrow
+morning, if you still desire it, I shall be happy to serve you,'
+
+When he was gone, the Crow, who had missed the Deer upon returning that
+evening, and had sought for him everywhere, discovered him; and seeing
+his sad plight, exclaimed--
+
+'How came this about, my friend?'
+
+'This came,' replied the Deer, 'through disregarding a friend's advice,'
+
+'Where is that rascal Small-wit?' asked the Crow.
+
+'He is waiting somewhere by,' said the Deer, 'to taste my flesh,'
+
+'Well,' sighed the Crow, 'I warned you; but it is as in the true verse--
+
+    'Stars gleam, lamps flicker, friends foretell of fate;
+    The fated sees, knows, hears them--all too late.'
+
+And then, with a deeper sigh, he exclaimed,'Ah, traitor Jackal, what an
+ill deed hast thou done! Smooth-tongued knave--alas!--and in the face of
+the monition too--
+
+    'Absent, flatterers' tongues are daggers--present, softer than the
+            silk;
+    Shun them! 'tis a jar of poison hidden under harmless milk;
+    Shun them when they promise little! Shun them when they promise much!
+    For, enkindled, charcoal burneth--cold, it doth defile the touch.'
+
+When the day broke, the Crow (who was still there) saw the master of the
+field approaching with his club in his hand.
+
+'Now, friend Deer,' said Sharp-sense on perceiving him, 'do thou cause
+thyself to seem like one dead: puff thy belly up with wind, stiffen thy
+legs out, and lie very still. I will make a show of pecking thine eyes
+out with my beak; and whensoever I utter a croak, then spring to thy
+feet and betake thee to flight.'
+
+The Deer thereon placed himself exactly as the Crow suggested, and was
+very soon espied by the husbandman, whose eyes opened with joy at the
+sight.
+
+'Aha!' said he, 'the fellow has died of himself,' and so speaking, he
+released the Deer from the snare, and proceeded to gather and lay aside
+his nets. At that instant Sharp-sense uttered a loud croak, and the Deer
+sprang up and made off. And the club which the husbandman flung after
+him in a rage struck Small-wit, the Jackal (who was close by), and
+killed him. Is it not said, indeed?--
+
+    'In years, or moons, or half-moons three,
+    Or in three days--suddenly,
+    Knaves are shent--true men go free,'
+
+"Thou seest, then," said Golden-skin, "there can be no friendship
+between food and feeder."
+
+"I should hardly," replied the Crow, "get a large breakfast out of your
+worship; but as to that indeed you have nothing to fear from me. I am
+not often angry, and if I were, you know--
+
+    'Anger comes to noble natures, but leaves there no strife or storm:
+    Plunge a lighted torch beneath it, and the ocean grows not warm.'
+
+"Then, also, thou art such a gad-about," objected the King.
+
+"Maybe," answered Light o' Leap; "but I am bent on winning thy
+friendship, and I will die at thy door of fasting if thou grantest it
+not. Let us be friends! for
+
+    'Noble hearts are golden vases--close the bond true metals make;
+    Easily the smith may weld them, harder far it is to break.
+    Evil hearts are earthen vessels--at a touch they crack a-twain,
+    And what craftsman's ready cunning can unite the shards again?'
+
+And then, too,
+
+    'Good men's friendships may be broken, yet abide they friends at heart;
+    Snap the stem of Luxmee's lotus, and its fibres will not part.'
+
+"Good sir," said the King of the Mice, "your conversation is as pleasing
+as pearl necklets or oil of sandal-wood in hot weather. Be it as you
+will"--and thereon King Golden-skin made a treaty with the Crow, and
+after gratifying him with the best of his store reentered his hole. The
+Crow returned to his accustomed perch:--and thenceforward the time
+passed in mutual presents of food, in polite inquiries, and the most
+unrestrained talk. One day Light o' Leap thus accosted Golden-skin:--
+
+"This is a poor place, your Majesty, for a Crow to get a living in. I
+should like to leave it and go elsewhere."
+
+"Whither wouldst thou go?" replied the King; they say,
+
+    'One foot goes, and one foot stands,
+    When the wise man leaves his lands.'
+
+"And they say, too," answered the Crow,
+
+    'Over-love of home were weakness; wheresoever the hero come,
+    Stalwart arm and steadfast spirit find or win for him a home.
+
+    Little recks the awless lion where his hunting jungles lie--
+    When he enters it be certain that a royal prey shall die,'
+
+"I know an excellent jungle now."
+
+"Which is that?" asked the Mouse-king.
+
+"In the Nerbudda woods, by Camphor-water," replied the Crow. "There is
+an old and valued friend of mine lives there--Slow-toes his name is, a
+very virtuous Tortoise; he will regale me with fish and good things."
+
+"Why should I stay behind," said Golden-skin, "if thou goest? Take me
+also."
+
+Accordingly, the two set forth together, enjoying charming converse upon
+the road. Slow-toes perceived Light o' Leap a long way off, and hastened
+to do him the guest-rites, extending them to the Mouse upon Light o'
+Leap's introduction.
+
+"Good Slow-toes," said he, "this is Golden-skin, King of the Mice--pay
+all honor to him--he is burdened with virtues--a very jewel-mine of
+kindnesses. I don't know if the Prince of all the Serpents, with his two
+thousand tongues, could rightly repeat them." So speaking, he told the
+story of Speckle-neck. Thereupon Slow-toes made a profound obeisance to
+Golden-skin, and said, "How came your Majesty, may I ask, to retire to
+an unfrequented forest?"
+
+"I will tell you," said the King. "You must know that in the town of
+Champaka there is a college for the devotees. Unto this resorted daily a
+beggar-priest, named Chudakarna, whose custom was to place his
+begging-dish upon the shelf, with such alms in it as he had not eaten,
+and go to sleep by it; and I, so soon as he slept, used to jump up, and
+devour the meal. One day a great friend of his, named Vinakarna, also a
+mendicant, came to visit him; and observed that while conversing, he
+kept striking the ground with a split cane, to frighten me. 'Why don't
+you listen?' said Vinakarna. 'I am listening!' replied the other; 'but
+this plaguy mouse is always eating the meal out of my begging-dish,'
+Vinakarna looked at the shelf and remarked, 'However can a mouse jump as
+high as this? There must be a reason, though there seems none. I guess
+the cause--the fellow is well off and fat,' With these words Vinakarna
+snatched up a shovel, discovered my retreat, and took away all my hoard
+of provisions. After that I lost strength daily, had scarcely energy
+enough to get my dinner, and, in fact, crept about so wretchedly, that
+when Chudakarna saw me he fell to quoting--
+
+    'Very feeble folk are poor folk; money lost takes wit away:--
+    All their doings fail like runnels, wasting through the summer day.'
+
+"Yes!" I thought, "he is right, and so are the sayings--
+
+    'Wealth is friends, home, father, brother--title to respect and fame;
+     Yea, and wealth is held for wisdom--that it should be so is shame,'
+    'Home is empty to the childless; hearts to them who friends deplore:--
+     Earth unto the idle-minded; and the three worlds to the poor.'
+
+'I can stay here no longer; and to tell my distress to another is out of
+the question--altogether out of the question!--
+
+    'Say the sages, nine things name not: Age, domestic joys and woes,
+    Counsel, sickness, shame, alms, penance; neither Poverty disclose.
+    Better for the proud of spirit, death, than life with losses told;
+    Fire consents to be extinguished, but submits not to be cold.'
+
+'Verily he was wise, methought also, who wrote--
+
+    'As Age doth banish beauty,
+      As moonlight dies in gloom,
+    As Slavery's menial duty
+      Is Honor's certain tomb;
+    As Hari's name and Hara's
+      Spoken, charm sin away,
+    So Poverty can surely
+      A hundred virtues slay.'
+
+'And as to sustaining myself on another man's bread, that,' I mused,
+'would be but a second door of death. Say not the books the same?--
+
+    'Half-known knowledge, present pleasure purchased with a future woe,
+    And to taste the salt of service--greater griefs no man can know.'
+
+'And herein, also--
+
+    'All existence is not equal, and all living is not life;
+    Sick men live; and he who, banished, pines for children, home, and
+            wife;
+    And the craven-hearted eater of another's leavings lives,
+    And the wretched captive waiting for the word of doom survives;
+    But they bear an anguished body, and they draw a deadly breath,
+    And life cometh to them only on the happy day of death.'
+
+Yet, after all these reflections, I was covetous enough to make one
+more attempt on Chudakarna's meal, and got a blow from the split cane
+for my pains. 'Just so,' I said to myself, 'the soul and organs of the
+discontented want keeping in subjection. I must be done with
+discontent:--
+
+'Golden gift, serene Contentment! have thou that, and all is had; Thrust
+thy slipper on, and think thee that the earth is leather-clad.'
+
+'All is known, digested, tested; nothing new is left to learn When the
+soul, serene, reliant, Hope's delusive dreams can spurn.'
+
+'And the sorry task of seeking favor is numbered in the miseries of
+life--
+
+'Hast thou never watched, a-waiting till the great man's door unbarred?
+Didst thou never linger parting, saying many a last sad word? Spak'st
+thou never word of folly, one light thing thou wouldst recall? Rare and
+noble hath thy life been! fair thy fortune did befall!'
+
+'No!' exclaimed I, 'I will do none of these; but, by retiring into the
+quiet and untrodden forest, I will show my discernment of real good and
+ill. The holy Books counsel it--
+
+'True Religion!--'tis not blindly prating what the priest may prate, But
+to love, as God hath loved them, all things, be they small or great; And
+true bliss is when a sane mind doth a healthy body fill; And true
+knowledge is the knowing what is good and what is ill.'
+
+"So came I to the forest, where, by good fortune and this good friend, I
+met much kindness; and by the same good fortune have encountered you,
+Sir, whose friendliness is as Heaven to me. Ah! Sir Tortoise,
+
+    'Poisonous though the tree of life be, two fair blossoms grow thereon:
+    One, the company of good men; and sweet songs of Poet's, one.'
+
+"King!" said Slow-toes, "your error was getting too much, without
+giving. Give, says the sage--
+
+    'Give, and it shall swell thy getting; give, and thou shalt safer keep:
+    Pierce the tank-wall; or it yieldeth, when the water waxes deep.'
+
+And he is very hard upon money-grubbing: as thus--
+
+    'When the miser hides his treasure in the earth, he doeth well;
+    For he opens up a passage that his soul may sink to hell,'
+
+
+And thus--
+
+    'He whose coins are kept for counting, not to barter nor to give,
+    Breathe he like a blacksmith's bellows, yet in truth he doth not live.'
+
+It hath been well written, indeed,
+
+    'Gifts, bestowed with words of kindness, making giving doubly dear:--
+    Wisdom, deep, complete, benignant, of all arrogancy clear;
+    Valor, never yet forgetful of sweet Mercy's pleading prayer;
+    Wealth, and scorn of wealth to spend it--oh! but these be virtues
+            rare!'
+
+"Frugal one may be," continued Slow-toes; "but not a niggard like the
+Jackal--
+
+    'The Jackal-knave, that starved his spirit so,
+    And died of saving, by a broken bow.'
+
+"Did he, indeed," said Golden-skin; "and how was that?"
+
+"I will tell you," answered Slow-toes:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE DEAD GAME AND THE JACKAL
+
+"In a town called 'Well-to-Dwell' there lived a mighty hunter, whose
+name was 'Grim-face,' Feeling a desire one day for a little venison, he
+took his bow, and went into the woods; where he soon killed a deer. As
+he was carrying the deer home, he came upon a wild boar of prodigious
+proportions. Laying the deer upon the earth, he fixed and discharged an
+arrow and struck the boar, which instantly rushed upon him with a roar
+louder than the last thunder, and ripped the hunter up. He fell like a
+tree cut by the axe, and lay dead along with the boar, and a snake also,
+which had been crushed by the feet of the combatants. Not long
+afterwards, there came that way, in his prowl for food, a Jackal, named
+'Howl o' Nights,' and cast eyes on the hunter, the deer, the boar, and
+the snake lying dead together. 'Aha!' said he, 'what luck! Here's a
+grand dinner got ready for me! Good fortune can come, I see, as well as
+ill fortune. Let me think:--the man will be fine pickings for a month;
+the deer with the boar will last two more; the snake will do for
+to-morrow; and, as I am very particularly hungry, I will treat myself
+now to this bit of meat on the bow-horn,' So saying, he began to gnaw it
+asunder, and the bow-string slipping, the bow sprang back, and resolved
+Howl o' Nights into the five elements by death. That is my story,"
+continued Slow-toes, "and its application is for the wise:--
+
+    'Sentences of studied wisdom, nought avail they unapplied;
+    Though the blind man hold a lantern, yet his footsteps stray aside.'
+
+The secret of success, indeed, is a free, contented, and yet
+enterprising mind. How say the books thereon?--
+
+    'Wouldst thou know whose happy dwelling Fortune entereth unknown?
+    His, who careless of her favor, standeth fearless in his own;
+    His, who for the vague to-morrow barters not the sure to-day--
+    Master of himself, and sternly steadfast to the rightful way:
+    Very mindful of past service, valiant, faithful, true of heart--
+    Unto such comes Lakshmi[9] smiling--comes, and will not lightly part.'
+
+"What indeed," continued Slow-toes, "is wealth, that we should prize it,
+or grieve to lose it?--
+
+    'Be not haughty, being wealthy; droop not, having lost thine all;
+    Fate doth play with mortal fortunes as a girl doth toss her ball.'
+
+It is unstable by nature. We are told--
+
+    'Worldly friendships, fair but fleeting, shadows of the clouds at noon
+    Women, youth, new corn, and riches--these be pleasures passing soon.'
+
+And it is idle to be anxious; the Master of Life knows how to sustain
+it. Is it not written?--
+
+    'For thy bread be not o'er thoughtful--God for all hath taken thought:
+    When the babe is born, the sweet milk to the mother's breast is
+            brought.
+
+    He who gave the swan her silver, and the hawk her plumes of pride,
+    And his purples to the peacock--He will verily provide.'
+
+"Yes, verily," said Slow-toes, "wealth is bad to handle, and better left
+alone; there is no truer saying than this--
+
+    'Though for good ends, waste not on wealth a minute;
+    Mud may be wiped, but wise men plunge not in it.'
+
+Hearing the wisdom of these monitions, Light o' Leap broke out, 'Good
+Slow-toes! thou art a wise protector of those that come to thee; thy
+learning comforts my enlightened friend, as elephants drag elephants
+from the mire,' And thus, on the best of terms, wandering where they
+pleased for food, the three lived there together.
+
+One day it chanced that a Deer named Dapple-back, who had seen some
+cause of alarm in the forest, came suddenly upon the three in his
+flight. Thinking the danger imminent, Slow-toes dropped into the water,
+King Golden-skin slipped into his hole, and Light o' Leap flew up into
+the top of a high tree. Thence he looked all round to a great distance,
+but could discover nothing. So they all came back again, and sat down
+together. Slow-toes welcomed the Deer.
+
+'Good Deer,' said he, 'may grass and water never fail thee at thy need.
+Gratify us by residing here, and consider this forest thine own.'
+
+'Indeed,' answered Dapple-back, 'I came hither for your protection,
+flying from a hunter; and to live with you in friendship is my greatest
+desire.'
+
+'Then the thing is settled,' observed Golden-skin.
+
+'Yes! yes!' said Light o' Leap, 'make yourself altogether at home!'
+
+So the Deer, charmed at his reception, ate grass and drank water, and
+laid himself down in the shade of a Banyan-tree to talk. Who does not
+know?--
+
+    'Brunettes, and the Banyan's shadow,
+      Well-springs, and a brick-built wall.
+    Are all alike cool in the summer,
+      And warm in the winter--all.'
+
+'What made thee alarmed, friend Deer?' began Slow-toes. 'Do hunters ever
+come to this unfrequented forest?'
+
+'I have heard,' replied Dapple-back, 'that the Prince of the Kalinga
+country, Rukmangada, is coming here. He is even now encamped on the
+Cheenab River, on his march to subjugate the borders; and the hunters
+have been heard to say that he will halt to-morrow by this very lake of
+"Camphor-water." Don't you think, as it is dangerous to stay, that we
+ought to resolve on something?'
+
+'I shall certainly go to another pool,' exclaimed Slow-toes.
+
+'It would be better,' answered the Crow and Deer together.
+
+'Yes!' remarked the King of the Mice, after a minute's thought; 'but how
+is Slow-toes to get across the country in time? Animals like our
+amphibious host are best in the water; on land he might suffer from his
+own design, like the merchant's son--
+
+    'The merchant's son laid plans for gains,
+    And saw his wife kissed for his pains.'
+
+'How came that about?' asked all. "I'll tell you," answered Golden-skin.
+
+
+THE PRINCE AND THE WIFE OF THE MERCHANT'S SON
+
+"In the country of Kanouj there was a King named Virasena, and he made
+his son viceroy of a city called Virapoora. The Prince was rich,
+handsome, and in the bloom of youth. Passing through the streets of his
+city one day, he observed a very lovely woman, whose name was
+Lavanyavati--i.e., the Beautiful--the wife of a merchant's son. On
+reaching his palace, full of her charms and of passionate admiration for
+them, he despatched a message to her, and a letter, by a female
+attendant:--who wonders at it?--
+
+    'Ah! the gleaming, glancing arrows of a lovely woman's eye!
+    Feathered with her jetty lashes, perilous they pass us by:--
+    Loosed at venture from the black bows of her arching brow they part,
+    All too penetrant and deadly for an undefended heart.'
+
+Now Lavanyavati, from the moment she saw the Prince, was hit with the
+same weapon of love that wounded him; but upon hearing the message of
+the attendant, she refused with dignity to receive his letter.
+
+'I am my husband's,' she said, 'and that is my honor; for--
+
+    'Beautiful the Koil[10] seemeth for the sweetness of his song,
+    Beautiful the world esteemeth pious souls for patience strong;
+    Homely features lack not favor when true wisdom they reveal,
+    And a wife is fair and honored while her heart is firm and leal.'
+
+What the lord of my life enjoins, that I do.'
+
+'Is such my answer?' asked the attendant.
+
+'It is,' said Lavanyavati.
+
+Upon the messenger reporting her reply to the Prince, he was in despair.
+
+'The God of the five shafts has hit me,' he exclaimed, 'and only her
+presence will cure my wound.'
+
+'We must make her husband bring her, then,' said the messenger.
+
+'That can never be,' replied the Prince.
+
+'It can,' replied the messenger--
+
+    'Fraud may achieve what force would never try:--
+    The Jackal killed the Elephant thereby.'
+
+'How was that?' asked the Prince. The Slave related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE OLD JACKAL AND THE ELEPHANT
+
+"In the forest of Brahma[11] lived an Elephant, whose name was
+'White-front.' The Jackals knew him, and said among themselves, 'If this
+great brute would but die, there would be four months' food for us, and
+plenty, out of his carcase.' With that an old Jackal stood up, and
+pledged himself to compass the death of the Elephant by his own wit.
+Accordingly, he sought for 'White-front,' and, going up to him, he made
+the reverential prostration of the eight members, gravely saluting him.
+
+'Divine creature,' said he, 'vouchsafe me the regard of one look.'
+
+'Who art thou?' grunted the Elephant,'and whence comest thou?'
+
+'I am only a Jackal,' said the other; 'but the beasts of the forest are
+convinced that it is not expedient to live without a king, and they have
+met in full council, and despatched me to acquaint your Royal Highness
+that on you, endowed with so many lordly qualities, their choice has
+fallen for a sovereign over the forest here; for--
+
+    'Who is just, and strong, and wise?
+    Who is true to social ties?
+    He is formed for Emperies.
+
+Let your Majesty, therefore, repair thither at once, that the moment of
+fortunate conjunction may not escape us.' So saying he led the way,
+followed at a great pace by White-front, who was eager to commence his
+reign.
+
+"Presently the Jackal brought him upon a deep slough, into which he
+plunged heavily before he could stop himself.
+
+'Good master Jackal,' cried the Elephant,'what's to do now? I am up to
+my belly in this quagmire.'
+
+'Perhaps your Majesty,' said the Jackal, with an impudent laugh, 'will
+condescend to take hold of the tip of my brush with your trunk, and so
+get out.'
+
+'Then White-front, the Elephant, knew that he had been deceived; and
+thus he sank in the slime, and was devoured by the Jackals. Hence,'
+continued the attendant, 'is why I suggested stratagem to your
+Highness,'
+
+Shortly afterwards, by the Slave's advice, the Prince sent for the
+merchant's son (whose name was Charudatta), and appointed him to be near
+his person; and one day, with the same design, when he was just come
+from the bath, and had on his jewels, he summoned Charudatta, and said--
+
+"I have a vow to keep to Gauri--bring hither to me every evening for a
+month some lady of good family, that I may do honor to her, according to
+my vow; and begin to-day."
+
+Charudatta in due course brought a lady of quality, and, having
+introduced her, retired to watch the interview. The Prince, without even
+approaching his fair visitor, made her the most respectful obeisances,
+and dismissed her with gifts of ornaments, sandal-wood, and perfumes,
+under the protection of a guard. This made Charudatta confident, and
+longing to get some of these princely presents he brought his own wife
+next evening. When the Prince recognized the charming Lavanyavati--the
+joy of his soul--he sprang to meet her, and kissed and caressed her
+without the least restraint. At sight of this the miserable Charudatta
+stood transfixed with despair--the very picture of wretchedness'----
+
+'And you too, Slow-toes--but where is he gone?' abruptly asked King
+Golden-skin.
+
+Now Slow-toes had not chosen to wait the end of the story, but was gone
+before, and Golden-skin and the others followed him up in some anxiety.
+The Tortoise had been painfully travelling along, until a hunter, who
+was beating the wood for game, had overtaken him. The fellow, who was
+very hungry, picked him up, fastened him on his bow-stick, and set off
+for home; while the Deer, the Crow, and the Mouse, who had witnessed
+the capture, followed them in terrible concern. 'Alas!' cried the
+Mouse-king, 'he is gone!--and such a friend!
+
+    'Friend! gracious word!--the heart to tell is ill able
+    Whence came to men this jewel of a syllable.'
+
+'Let us,' continued he to his companions, 'let us make one attempt, at
+least, to rescue Slow-toes before the hunter is out of the wood!'
+
+'Only tell us how to do it,' replied they.
+
+'Do thus,' said Golden-skin: 'let Dapple-back hasten on to the water,
+and lie down there and make himself appear dead; and do you, Light o'
+Leap, hover over him and peck about his body. The hunter is sure to put
+the Tortoise down to get the venison, and I will gnaw his bonds.'
+
+'The Deer and the Crow started at once; and the hunter, who was sitting
+down to rest under a tree and drinking water, soon caught sight of the
+Deer, apparently dead. Drawing his wood-knife, and putting the Tortoise
+down by the water, he hastened to secure the Deer, and Golden-skin, in
+the meantime, gnawed asunder the string that held Slow-toes, who
+instantly dropped into the pool. The Deer, of course, when the hunter
+got near, sprang up and made off, and when he returned to the tree the
+Tortoise was gone also. "I deserve this," thought he--
+
+    'Whoso for greater quits his gain,
+    Shall have his labor for his pain;
+    The things unwon unwon remain,
+    And what was won is lost again.'
+
+And so lamenting, he went to his village. Slow-toes and his friends,
+quit of all fears, repaired together to their new habitations, and there
+lived happily.
+
+Then spake the King Sudarsana's sons, "We have heard every word, and are
+delighted; it fell out just as we wished."
+
+"I rejoice thereat, my Princes," said Vishnu-Sarman; "may it also fall
+out according to this my wish--
+
+    "Lakshmi give you friends like these!
+    Lakshmi keep your lands in ease!
+    Set, your sovereign thrones beside,
+    Policy, a winsome bride!
+    And He, whose forehead-jewel is the moon
+    Give peace to us and all--serene and soon."
+
+
+[3] Used in many religious observances by the Hindoos.
+
+[4] Heaven, earth, and the lower regions.
+
+[5] The Hindoo accounts for the origin of evil by this theory of a
+series of existences continued until the balance is just, and the soul
+has purified itself. Every fault must have its expiation and every
+higher faculty its development; pain and misery being signs of the
+ordeals in the trial, which is to end in the happy re-absorption of the
+emancipated spirit.
+
+[6] The mouse, as vehicle of Gunesh, is an important animal in Hindoo
+legend.
+
+[7] The champak is a bushy tree, bearing a profusion of star-like
+blossoms with golden centres, and of the most pleasing perfume.
+
+[8] A religious observance. The devotee commences the penance at the
+full moon with an allowance of fifteen mouthfuls for his food,
+diminishing this by one mouthful each day, till on the fifteenth it is
+reduced to one. As the new moon increases, his allowance ascends to its
+original proportion.
+
+[9] The wife of Vishnoo, Goddess of beauty and abundance.
+
+[10] The black or Indian cuckoo.
+
+[11] A grove where the Vedas are read and expounded.
+
+
+
+
+THE PARTING OF FRIENDS
+
+Then spake the Royal Princes to Vishnu-Sarman,
+
+"Reverend Sir! we have listened to the 'Winning of Friends,' we would
+now hear how friends are parted."
+
+"Attend, then," replied the Sage, "to 'the Parting of Friends,' the
+first couplet of which runs in this wise--
+
+    'The Jackal set--of knavish cunning full--
+    At loggerheads the Lion and the Bull.'
+
+"How was that?" asked the sons of the Rajah.
+
+Vishnu-Sarman proceeded to relate:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE LION, THE JACKALS, AND THE BULL
+
+"In the Deccan there is a city called Golden-town, and a wealthy
+merchant lived there named Well-to-do. He had abundant means, but as
+many of his relations were even yet richer, his mind was bent: upon
+outdoing them by gaining more. Enough is never what we have--
+
+    'Looking down on lives below them, men of little store are great;
+    Looking up to higher fortunes, hard to each man seems his fate.'
+
+And is not wealth won by courage and enterprise?--
+
+    'As a bride, unwisely wedded, shuns the cold caress of eld,
+    So, from coward souls and slothful, Lakshmi's favors turn repelled.'
+
+    'Ease, ill-health, home-keeping, sleeping, woman-service, and content--
+    In the path that leads to greatness these be six obstructions sent.'
+
+And wealth that increases not, diminishes--a little gain is so far
+good--
+
+    'Seeing how the soorma wasteth, seeing how the ant-hill grows,
+    Little adding unto little--live, give, learn, as life-time goes.'
+
+    'Drops of water falling, falling, falling, brim the chatty o'er;
+    Wisdom comes in little lessons--little gains make largest store.'
+
+Moved by these reflections Well-to-do loaded a cart with wares of all
+kinds, yoked two bulls to it, named Lusty-life and Roarer, and started
+for Kashmir to trade. He had not gone far upon his journey when in
+passing through a great forest called Bramble-wood, Lusty-life slipped
+down and broke his foreleg. At sight of this disaster Well-to-do fell
+a-thinking, and repeated--
+
+    'Men their cunning schemes may spin--
+    God knows who shall lose or win.'
+
+Comforting himself with such philosophy, Well-to-do left Lusty-life
+there, and went on his way. The Bull watched him depart, and stood
+mournfully on three legs, alone in the forest. 'Well, well,' he thought,
+'it is all destiny whether I live or die:--
+
+    'Shoot a hundred shafts, the quarry lives and flies--not due to death;
+    When his hour is come, a grass-blade hath a point to stop his breath.'
+
+As the days passed by, and Lusty-life picked about in the tender forest
+grass, he grew wonderfully well, and fat of carcase, and happy, and
+bellowed about the wood as though it were his own. Now, the reigning
+monarch of the forest was King Tawny-hide the Lion, who ruled over the
+whole country absolutely, by right of having deposed everybody else. Is
+not might right?--
+
+    'Robes were none, nor oil of unction, when the King of Beasts was
+            crowned:--
+    'Twas his own fierce roar proclaimed him, rolling all his kingdom
+            round.'
+
+One morning, his Majesty, being exceedingly thirsty, had repaired to the
+bank of the Jumna to drink water, and just as he was about to lap it,
+the bellow of Lusty-life, awful as the thunder of the last day, reached
+the imperial ears. Upon catching the sound the King retreated in
+trepidation to his own lair, without drinking a drop, and stood there in
+silence and alarm revolving what it could mean. In this position he was
+observed by the sons of his minister, two jackals named Karataka and
+Damanaka, who began to remark upon it.
+
+'Friend Karataka,' said the last,'what makes our royal master slink away
+from the river when he was dying to drink?'
+
+'Why should we care?' replied Karataka. 'It's bad enough to serve him,
+and be neglected for our pains--
+
+    'Oh, the bitter salt of service!--toil, frost, fire, are not so keen:--
+    Half such heavy penance bearing, tender consciences were clean.'
+
+'Nay, friend! never think thus,' said Damanaka--
+
+    'What but for their vassals,
+    Elephant and man--
+    Swing of golden tassels,
+    Wave of silken fan--
+    But for regal manner
+    That the "Chattra"[12] brings,
+    Horse, and foot, and banner--
+    What would come of kings?'
+
+'I care not,' replied Karataka; 'we have nothing to do with it, and
+matters that don't concern us are best left alone. You know the story of
+the Monkey, don't you?'--
+
+    'The Monkey drew the sawyer's wedge, and died:--
+    Let meddlers mark it, and be edified.'
+
+'No!' said Damanaka. 'How was it?'
+
+'In this way,' answered Karataka:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE MONKEY AND THE WEDGE
+
+"In South Behar, close by the retreat of Dhurmma, there was an open plot
+of ground, upon which a temple was in course of erection, under the
+management of a man of the Kayeth caste, named Subhadatta. A carpenter
+upon the works had partly sawed through a long beam of wood, and wedged
+it open, and was gone away, leaving the wedge fixed. Shortly afterwards
+a large herd of monkeys came frolicking that way, and one of their
+number, directed doubtless by the Angel of death, got astride the beam,
+and grasped the wedge, with his tail and lower parts dangling down
+between the pieces of the wood. Not content with this, in the mischief
+natural to monkeys, he began to tug at the wedge; till at last it
+yielded to a great effort and came out; when the wood closed upon him,
+and jammed him all fast. So perished the monkey, miserably crushed; and
+I say again--
+
+    'Let meddlers mark it, and be edified.'
+
+'But surely,' argued Damanaka, 'servants are bound to watch the
+movements of their masters!'
+
+'Let the prime minister do it, then,' answered Karataka; 'it is his
+business to overlook things, and subordinates shouldn't interfere in the
+department of their chief. You might get ass's thanks for it--
+
+    'The Ass that hee-hawed, when the dog should do it,
+    For his lord's welfare, like an ass did rue it.'
+
+Damanaka asked how that happened, and Karataka related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE WASHERMAN'S JACKASS
+
+"There was a certain Washerman at Benares, whose name was Carpurapataka,
+and he had an Ass and a Dog in his courtyard; the first tethered, and
+the last roaming loose. Once on a time, when he had been spending his
+morning in the society of his wife, whom he had just married, and had
+fallen to sleep in her arms, a robber entered the house, and began to
+carry off his goods. The Ass observed the occupation of the thief, and
+was much concerned.
+
+'Good Dog,' said he, 'this is thy matter: why dost thou not bark aloud,
+and rouse the master?'
+
+'Gossip Ass,' replied the Dog, 'leave me alone to guard the premises. I
+can do it, if I choose; but the truth is, this master of ours thinks
+himself so safe lately that he clean forgets me, and I don't find my
+allowance of food nearly regular enough. Masters will do so; and a
+little fright will put him in mind of his defenders again.'
+
+'Thou scurvy cur!' exclaimed the Ass--
+
+'At the work-time, asking wages--is it like a faithful herd?'
+
+'Thou extreme Ass!' replied the Dog.
+
+'When the work's done, grudging wages--is that acting like a lord?'
+
+'Mean-spirited beast,' retorted the Ass, 'who neglectest thy master's
+business! Well, then, I at least will endeavor to arouse him; it is no
+less than religion,
+
+    'Serve the Sun with sweat of body; starve thy maw to feed the flame;
+    Stead thy lord with all thy service; to thy death go, quit of blame.'
+
+So saying, he put forth his very best braying. The Washerman sprang up
+at the noise, and missing the thief, turned in a rage upon the Ass for
+disturbing him, and beat it with a cudgel to such an extent that the
+blows resolved the poor animal into the five elements of death. 'So
+that,' continued Karataka, 'is why I say, Let the prime minister look to
+him. The hunting for prey is our duty--let us stick to it, then. And
+this,' he said, with a meditative look, 'need not trouble us to-day; for
+we have a capital dish of the royal leavings.'
+
+'What!' said Damanaka, rough with rage, 'dost thou serve the King for
+the sake of thy belly? Why take any such trouble to preserve an
+existence like thine?--
+
+    'Many prayers for him are uttered whereon many a life relies;
+    'Tis but one poor fool the fewer when the gulping Raven dies.'
+
+For assisting friends, and defeating enemies also, the service of kings
+is desirable. To enter upon it for a mere living makes the thing low
+indeed. There must be dogs and elephants; but servants need not be like
+hungry curs, while their masters are noble. What say the books?
+
+    'Give thy Dog the merest mouthful, and he crouches at thy feet,
+    Wags his tail, and fawns, and grovels, in his eagerness to eat;
+    Bid the Elephant be feeding, and the best of fodder bring;
+    Gravely--after much entreaty--condescends that mighty king.'
+
+'Well, well!' said Karataka; 'the books are nothing to us, who are not
+councillors.'
+
+'But we may come to be,' replied Damanaka; 'men rise, not by chance or
+nature, but by exertions--
+
+    'By their own deeds men go downward, by them men mount upward all,
+    Like the diggers of a well, and like the builders of a wall.'
+
+Advancement is slow--but that is in the nature of things--
+
+    'Rushes down the hill the crag, which upward 'twas so hard to roll:
+    So to virtue slowly rises--so to vice quick sinks the soul.'
+
+'Very good,' observed Karataka; 'but what is all this talk about?'
+
+'Why! don't you see our Royal Master there, and how he came home without
+drinking? I know he has been horribly frightened,' said Damanaka.
+
+'How do you know it?' asked the other.
+
+'By my perception--at a glance!' replied Damanaka; 'and I mean to make
+out of this occasion that which shall put his Majesty at my disposal,'
+
+'Now,' exclaimed Karataka, 'it is thou who art ignorant about service--
+
+    'Who speaks unasked, or comes unbid,
+    Or counts on favor--will be chid.'
+
+'I ignorant about service!' said Damanaka; 'no, no, my friend, I know
+the secret of it--
+
+    'Wise, modest, constant, ever close at hand,
+    Not weighing but obeying all command,
+    Such servant by a Monarch's throne may stand.'
+
+'In any case, the King often rates thee,' remarked Karataka, 'for coming
+to the presence unsummoned.'
+
+'A dependent,' replied Damanaka, 'should nevertheless present himself;
+he must make himself known to the great man, at any risk--
+
+    'Pitiful, that fearing failure, therefore no beginning makes,
+    Who forswears his daily dinner for the chance of stomach-aches?'
+
+and besides, to be near is at last to be needful;--is it not said--
+
+    'Nearest to the King is dearest, be thy merit low or high;
+    Women, creeping plants, and princes, twine round that which groweth
+            nigh.'
+
+'Well,' inquired Karataka, 'what wilt thou say, being come to him?'
+
+'First,' replied Damanaka, 'I will discover if his Majesty is well
+affected to me.'
+
+'How do you compass that?' asked the other.
+
+'Oh, easily! by a look, a word,' answered Damanaka; 'and that
+ascertained, I will proceed to speak what will put him at my disposal.'
+
+'I can't see how you can venture to speak,' objected the other,
+'without an opportunity--
+
+    'If Vrihaspati, the Grave,
+      Spoke a sentence out of season,
+    Even Vrihaspati would have
+      Strong rebuke for such unreason.'
+
+'Pray don't imagine I shall speak unseasonably,' interrupted Damanaka;
+'if that is all you fear, I will start at once.'
+
+'Go, then,' said Karataka; 'and may you be as lucky as you hope.'
+
+"Thereupon Damanaka set out for the lair of King Tawny-hide; putting on,
+as he approached it, the look of one greatly disconcerted. The Rajah
+observed him coming, and gave permission that he should draw near; of
+which Damanaka availing himself, made reverential prostration of the
+eight members and sat down upon his haunches.
+
+'You have come at last, then, Sir Jackal!' growled his Majesty.
+
+'Great Monarch!' humbly replied Damanaka, 'my service is not worthy of
+laying at your imperial feet, but a servant should attend when he can
+perform a service, and therefore I am come--
+
+    'When Kings' ears itch, they use a straw to scratch 'em;
+    When Kings' foes plot, they get wise men to match 'em.'
+
+'H'm!' growled the Lion.
+
+'Your Majesty suspects my intellect, I fear,' continued the
+Jackal,'after so long an absence from your Majesty's feet; but, if I may
+say so, it is still sound.'
+
+'H'm!' growled the Lion again.
+
+'A king, may it please your Majesty, should know how to estimate his
+servants, whatever their position--
+
+    'Pearls are dull in leaden settings, but the setter is to blame;
+    Glass will glitter like the ruby, dulled with dust--are they the same?
+
+    'And a fool may tread on jewels, setting in his crown mere glass;
+    Yet, at selling, gems are gems, and fardels but for fardels pass.'
+
+'Servants, gracious liege! are good or bad as they are entertained. Is
+it not written?--
+
+    'Horse and weapon, lute and volume, man and woman, gift of speech,
+    Have their uselessness or uses in the One who owneth each.'
+
+'And if I have been traduced to your Majesty as a dull fellow, that hath
+not made me so--
+
+    'Not disparagement nor slander kills the spirit of the brave;
+    Fling a torch down, upward ever burns the brilliant flame it gave.'
+
+'Accept then, Sire, from the humblest of your slaves his very humble
+counsel--for
+
+    'Wisdom from the mouth of children be it overpast of none;
+    What man scorns to walk by lamplight in the absence of the sun?'
+
+'Good Damanaka,' said King Tawny-hide, somewhat appeased, 'how is it
+that thou, so wise a son of our first minister, hast been absent all
+this while from our Court? But now speak thy mind fearlessly: what
+wouldst thou?'
+
+'Will your Majesty deign to answer one question?' said Damanaka.
+'Wherefore came He back from the river without drinking?'
+
+'Hush!' whispered the King, 'thou hast hit right upon my trouble. I knew
+no one unto whom I might confide it; but thou seemest a faithful fellow,
+and I will tell thee. Listen, then,' continued his Majesty in an
+agitated whisper, 'there is some awful beast that was never seen before
+in this wood here; and we shall have to leave it, look you. Did you hear
+by chance the inconceivable great roar he gave? What a strong beast it
+must be to have such a voice!'
+
+'May it please your Majesty, I did hear the noise,' said the Jackal,
+'and there is doubtless cause for terrible apprehension therein; but
+take comfort, my Liege, he is no minister who bids thee prepare for
+either war or resignation. All will go well, and your Majesty will learn
+by this difficulty which be your best servants,'
+
+'Good Jackal,' said Tawny-hide, 'I am horribly frightened about it.'
+
+'I can see that,' thought Damanaka; but he only said, 'Fear nothing, my
+liege, while thy servant survives,'
+
+'What shall I do?' asked the King.
+
+'It is well to encourage those who can avert disaster. If your Majesty
+condescended now to bestow some favor on Karataka and the other----'
+
+'It shall be done,' said the Rajah; and, summoning the other Jackals, he
+gave them and Damanaka a magnificent gift of flesh, and they left the
+presence, undertaking to meet the threatened danger.
+
+'But, brother,' began Karataka,'haven't we eaten the King's dinner
+without knowing what the danger is which we are to meet, and whether we
+can obviate it?'
+
+'Hold thy peace,' said Damanaka, laughing; 'I know very well what the
+danger is! It was a bull, aha! that bellowed--a bull, my brother--whose
+beef you and I could pick, much more the King our master.'
+
+'And why not tell him so?' asked Karataka.
+
+'What! and quiet his Majesty's fears! And where would our splendid
+dinner have been then? No, no, my friend--
+
+    'Set not your lord at ease; for, doing that,
+    Might starve you as it starved "Curd-ear" the Cat.'
+
+'Who was Curd-ear, the Cat?' inquired Karataka. Damanaka related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE CAT WHO SERVED THE LION
+
+"Far away in the North, on a mountain named 'Thousand-Crags,' there
+lived a lion called 'Mighty-heart'; and he was much annoyed by a certain
+mouse, who made a custom of nibbling his mane while he lay asleep in his
+den. The Lion would wake in a great rage at finding the ends of his
+magnificent mane made ragged, but the little mouse ran into his hole,
+and he could never catch it. After much consideration he went down to a
+village, and got a Cat named Curd-ear to come to his cave with much
+persuasion. He kept the Cat royally on all kinds of dainties, and slept
+comfortably without having his mane nibbled, as the mouse would now
+never venture out. Whenever the Lion heard the mouse scratching about,
+that was always a signal for regaling the Cat in a most distinguished
+style. But one day, the wretched mouse being nearly starved, he took
+courage to creep timidly from his hole, and was directly pounced upon by
+Curd-ear and killed. After that the Lion heard no more of the mouse, and
+quite left off his regular entertainments of the Cat. No!" concluded
+Damanaka, "we will keep our mouse alive for his Majesty."
+
+So conversing, the Jackals went away to find Lusty-life the Bull, and
+upon discovering him, Karataka squatted down with great dignity at the
+foot of a tree, while Damanaka approached to accost him.
+
+'Bull,' said Damanaka, 'I am the warder of this forest under the King
+Tawny-hide, and Karataka the Jackal there is his General. The General
+bids thee come before him, or else instantly depart from the wood. It
+were better for thee to obey, for his anger is terrible,'
+
+'Thereupon Lusty-life, knowing nothing of the country customs, advanced
+at once to Karataka, made the respectful prostration of the eight
+members, and said timidly, 'My Lord General! what dost thou bid me do?--
+
+    'Strength serves Reason. Saith the Mahout, when he beats the brazen
+            drum,
+    "Ho! ye elephants, to this work must your mightinesses come."'
+
+'Bull,' answered Karataka, 'thou canst remain in the wood no longer
+unless thou goest directly to lay thyself at our Royal master's imperial
+feet.'
+
+'My Lord,' replied the Bull, 'give me a guarantee of safety, and I will
+go.'
+
+'Bull,' said Karataka, 'thou art foolish; fear nothing--
+
+    "When the King of Chedi cursed him,
+      Krishna scorned to make reply;
+    Lions roar the thunder quiet,
+      Jackals'-yells they let go by."
+
+Our Lord the King will not vouchsafe his anger to thee; knowest thou
+not--
+
+    'Mighty natures war with mighty: when the raging tempests blow,
+    O'er the green rice harmless pass they, but they lay the palm-trees
+            low,'
+
+'So the Jackals, keeping Lusty-life in the rear, went towards the palace
+of King Tawny-hide; where the Rajah received them with much
+graciousness, and bade them sit down.
+
+'Have you seen him?' asked the King.
+
+'We have seen him, your Majesty,' answered Damanaka; 'it is quite as
+your Majesty expected--the creature has enormous strength, and wishes
+to see your Majesty. Will you be seated, Sire, and prepare yourself--it
+will never do to appear alarmed at a noise.'
+
+'Oh, if it was only a noise,' began the Rajah.
+
+'Ah, but the cause, Sire! that was what had to be found out; like the
+secret of Swing-ear the Spirit.'
+
+'And who might Swing-ear be?' asked the King.
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE TERRIBLE BELL
+
+"A goblin, your Majesty," responded Damanaka, "it seemed so, at least,
+to the good people of Brahmapoora. A thief had stolen a bell from the
+city, and was making off with that plunder, and more, into the
+Sri-parvata hills, when he was killed by a tiger. The bell lay in the
+jungle till some monkeys picked it up, and amused themselves by
+constantly ringing it. The townspeople found the bones of the man, and
+heard the noise of the bell all about the hills; so they gave out that
+there was a terrible devil there, whose ears rang like bells as he swung
+them about, and whose delight was to devour men. Every one, accordingly,
+was leaving the town, when a peasant woman named Karala, who liked
+belief the better for a little proof, came to the Rajah.
+
+'Highness!' she observed, 'for a consideration I could settle this
+Swing-ear.'
+
+'You could!' exclaimed the Rajah.
+
+'I think so!' repeated the woman.
+
+'Give her a consideration forthwith,' said the Rajah.
+
+"Karala, who had her own ideas upon the matter, took the present and set
+out. Being come to the hills, she made a circle, and did homage to
+Gunputtee,[13] without whom nothing prospers. Then, taking some fruit
+she had brought, such as monkeys love extremely, she scattered it up and
+down in the wood, and withdrew to watch. Very soon the monkeys finding
+the fruit, put down the bell, to do justice to it, and the woman picking
+it up, bore it back to the town, where she became an object of uncommon
+veneration. We, indeed," concluded Damanaka, "bring you a Bull instead
+of a bell--your Majesty shall now see him!"
+
+"Thereupon Lusty-life was introduced, and, the interview passing off
+well, he remained many days in the forest on excellent terms with the
+Lion.
+
+'One day another Lion, named 'Stiff-ears,' the brother of King
+Tawny-hide, came to visit him. The King received him with all imaginable
+respect, bade him be seated, and rose from his throne to go and kill
+some beasts for his refreshment.
+
+'May it please your Majesty,' interposed the Bull, 'a deer was slain
+to-day--where is its flesh?'
+
+'Damanaka and his brother know best,' said the King.
+
+'Let us ascertain if there be any,' suggested the Bull.
+
+'It is useless,' said the King, laughing--'they leave none,'
+
+'What!' exclaimed the Bull, 'have those Jackals eaten a whole deer?'
+
+'Eaten it, spoiled it, and given it away,' answered Tawny-hide; 'they
+always do so,'
+
+'And this without your Majesty's sanction?' asked the Bull.
+
+'Oh! certainly not with my sanction,' said the King.
+
+'Then,' exclaimed the Bull, 'it is too bad: and in Ministers too!--
+
+    'Narrow-necked to let out little, big of belly to keep much,
+    As a flagon is--the Vizir of a Sultan should be such.'
+
+'No wealth will stand such waste, your Majesty--
+
+    'He who thinks a minute little, like a fool misuses more;
+    He who counts a cowry nothing, being wealthy, will be poor.'
+
+'A king's treasury, my liege, is the king's life.'
+
+'Good brother,' observed Stiff-ears, who had heard what the Bull said,
+'these Jackals are your Ministers of Home and Foreign Affairs--they
+should not have direction of the Treasury. They are old servants, too,
+and you know the saying--
+
+    'Brahmans, soldiers, these and kinsmen--of the three set none in
+            charge:
+    For the Brahman, tho' you rack him, yields no treasure small or large;
+    And the soldier, being trusted, writes his quittance with his sword,
+    And the kinsman cheats his kindred by the charter of the word;
+    But a servant old in service, worse than any one is thought,
+    Who, by long-tried license fearless, knows his master's anger nought.'
+
+Ministers, my royal brother, are often like obstinate swellings that
+want squeezing, and yours must be kept in order.'
+
+'They are not particularly obedient, I confess,' said Tawny-hide.
+
+'It is very wrong,' replied Stiff-ears; 'and if you will be advised by
+me--as we have banqueted enough to-day--you will appoint this
+grain-eating and sagacious Bull your Superintendent of Stores.'
+
+'It shall be so,' exclaimed the King.
+
+'Lusty-life was accordingly appointed to serve out the provisions, and
+for many days Tawny-hide showed him favor beyond all others in the
+Court.
+
+"Now the Jackals soon found that food was no longer so freely provided
+by this arrangement as before, and they met to consult about it.
+
+'It is all our own fault,' said Damanaka, 'and people must suffer for
+their own mistakes. You know who said--
+
+    "I that could not leave alone
+    'Streak-o'-Gold,' must therefore moan.
+    She that took the House-wife's place
+    Lost the nose from off her face.
+    Take this lesson to thy heart--
+    Fools for folly suffer smart."
+
+'No!' said Karataka, 'how was it?' Damanaka related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE PRINCE AND THE PROCURESS
+
+"In the city of 'Golden-Streets' there reigned a valorous King, named
+Vira-vikrama, whose officer of justice was one day taking away to
+punishment a certain Barber, when he was stopped by a strolling
+mendicant, who held him by the skirts, and cried out, 'Punish not this
+man--punish them that do wrong of their own knowledge.' Being asked his
+meaning, he recited the foregoing verses, and, being still further
+questioned, he told this story--
+
+"I am Prince Kandarpa-ketu, son of the King of Ceylon. Walking one day
+in my summer-garden, I heard a merchant-captain narrating how that out
+at sea, deep under water, on the fourteenth day of the moon, he had seen
+what was like nothing but the famous tree of Paradise, and sitting under
+it a lady of most lustrous beauty, bedecked with strings of pearls like
+Lukshmi herself, reclining, with a lute in her hands, on what appeared
+to be a golden couch crusted all over with precious stones. At once I
+engaged the captain and his ship, and steered to the spot of which he
+told me. On reaching it I beheld the beautiful apparition as he had
+described it, and, transported with the exquisite beauty of the lady, I
+leapt after her into the sea. In a moment I found myself in a city of
+gold; and in an apartment of a golden palace, surrounded by young and
+beautiful girls, I found the Sea-queen. She perceived my approach, and
+sent an attendant with a courteous message to meet me. In reply to my
+questions, I learned that the lady was the Princess Ratnamanjari,
+daughter of the King of All the Spirits--and how she had made a vow that
+whoever should first come to see her golden city, with his own eyes,
+should marry her. So I married her by the form called Gundharva, or
+'Union by mutual consent,' and spent many and happy days in her
+delightful society. One day she took me aside, and said, 'Dear Prince!
+all these delights, and I myself, are thine to enjoy; only that picture
+yonder, of the Fairy Streak-o'-Gold, that thou must never touch!' For a
+long time I observed this injunction; at last, impelled by resistless
+curiosity, I laid my hand on the picture of 'Streak-o'-Gold,' In one
+instant her little foot, lovely as the lotus-blossom, advanced from out
+of the painting, and launched me through sea and air into my own
+country. Since that I have been a miserable wanderer; and passing
+through this city, I chanced to lodge at a Cowkeeper's hut, and saw the
+truth of this Barber's affair. The herdsman returned at night with his
+cattle, and found his wife talking with the wife of the Barber, who is
+no better than a bawd. Enraged at this, the man beat his wife, tied her
+to the milking-post, and fell asleep. In the dead of the night the
+Barber's wife came back, and said to the woman, 'He, whom thou knowest,
+is burnt with the cruel fire of thine absence, and lies nigh to death;
+go therefore and console him, and I will tie myself to the post until
+thou returnest.' This was done, and the Cowkeeper presently awoke. 'Ah!
+thou light thing!' he said jeeringly, 'why dost not thou keep promise,
+and meet thy gallant?' The Barber's wife could make no reply; whereat
+becoming incensed, the man cried out, 'What! dost thou scorn to speak to
+me? I will cut thy nose off!' And so he did, and then lay down to sleep
+again. Very soon the Cowkeeper's wife came back and asked if 'all was
+well.' 'Look at my face!' said the Barber's wife, 'and you will see if
+all is well.' The woman could do nothing but take her place again,
+while the Barber's wife, picking up the severed nose, and at a sad loss
+how to account for it, went to her house. In the morning, before it was
+light, the Barber called to her to bring his box of razors, and she
+bringing one only, he flung it away in a passion. 'Oh, the knave!' she
+cried out, directly, aloud, 'Neighbors, neighbors! he has cut my nose
+off!' and so she took him before the officers. The Cowkeeper, meantime,
+wondering at his wife's patience, made some inquiry about her nose;
+whereto she replied, 'Cruel wretch! thou canst not harm a virtuous
+woman. If Yama and the seven guardians of the world know me chaste, then
+be my face unmaimed!' The herdsman hastened to fetch a light, and
+finding her features unaltered, he flung himself at her feet, and begged
+forgiveness. For,
+
+    'Never tires the fire of burning, never wearies death of slaying,
+    Nor the sea of drinking rivers, nor the bright-eyed of betraying,'
+
+Thereupon the King's officer dismissed Kandarpa-ketu, and did justice by
+setting the Barber free, shaving the head of the Barber's wife, and
+punishing the Cowkeeper's.
+
+'That is my story,' concluded Damanaka, 'and thence I said that we had
+no reason to complain.'
+
+'Well, but we must do something,' said Karataka.
+
+'Yes! How shall we break the friendship of the King with the Bull?'
+asked the other.
+
+'It is very strong,' observed Karataka.
+
+'But we can do it,' replied the other.
+
+    'What force would fail to win, fraud can attain:--
+    The Crow despatched the Serpent by a chain.'
+
+'How did that occur?' asked Karataka.
+
+Damanaka related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE BLACK SNAKE AND THE GOLDEN CHAIN
+
+"A pair of Crows had their abode in a certain tree, the hollow of which
+was occupied by a black snake, who had often devoured their young. The
+Hen-bird, finding herself breeding again, thus addressed her mate:
+'Husband, we must leave this tree; we shall never rear young ones while
+this black snake lives here! You know the saw--
+
+    'From false friends that breed thee strife,
+    From a house with serpents rife,
+    Saucy slaves and brawling wife--
+    Get thee out, to save thy life.'
+
+'My dear,' replied the Crow, 'you need not fear; I have put up with him
+till I am tired. Now I will put an end to him.'
+
+'How can you fight with a great black snake like that?' said the
+Hen-bird.
+
+'Doubt nothing,' answered the other--
+
+    'He that hath sense hath strength; the fool is weak:--
+    The Lion proud died by the Hare so meek,'
+
+'How came that about?' asked the Hen-Crow.
+
+'Thus,' replied her mate:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE LION AND THE OLD HARE
+
+"On the Mandara mountain there lived a Lion named Fierce-of-heart, and
+he was perpetually making massacre of all the wild animals. The thing
+grew so bad that the beasts held a public meeting, and drew up a
+respectful remonstrance to the Lion in these words:--
+
+"Wherefore should your Majesty thus make carnage of us all? If it may
+please you, we ourselves will daily furnish a beast for your Majesty's
+meal." The Lion responded, "If that arrangement is more agreeable to
+you, be it so."; and from that time a beast was allotted to him daily,
+and daily devoured. One day it came to the turn of an old hare to supply
+the royal table, who reflected to himself as he walked along, "I can but
+die, and I will go to my death leisurely."
+
+"Now Fierce-of-heart, the lion, was pinched with hunger, and seeing the
+Hare so approaching he roared out, "How darest thou thus delay in
+coming?"
+
+'Sire,' replied the Hare, 'I am not to blame. I was detained on the road
+by another lion, who exacted an oath from me to return when I should
+have informed your Majesty.'
+
+'Go,' exclaimed King Fierce-of-heart in a rage; 'show me, instantly,
+where this insolent villain of a lion lives.'
+
+"The Hare led the way accordingly till he came to a deep well, whereat
+he stopped, and said, 'Let my lord the King come hither and behold him.'
+The Lion approached, and beheld his own reflection in the water of the
+well, upon which, in his passion, he directly flung himself, and so
+perished."
+
+"I have heard your story," said the Hen-Crow, "but what plan do you
+propose?"
+
+"My dear," replied her mate, "the Rajah's son comes here every day to
+bathe in the stream. When he takes off his gold anklet, and lays it on
+the stone, do thou bring it in thy beak to the hollow of the tree, and
+drop it in there." Shortly after the Prince came, as was his wont, and
+taking off his dress and ornaments, the Hen-Crow did as had been
+determined; and while the servants of the Prince were searching in the
+hollow, there they found the Black Snake, which they at once dispatched.
+
+'Said I not well,' continued Damanaka, 'that stratagem excels force?'
+
+'It was well said,' replied Karataka; 'go! and may thy path be
+prosperous!
+
+'With that Damanaka repaired to the King, and having done homage, thus
+addressed him:--
+
+"Your Majesty, there is a dreadful thing on my mind, and I am come to
+disclose it."
+
+'Speak!' said the King, with much graciousness.
+
+'Your Majesty,' said the Jackal, 'this Bull has been detected of
+treason. To my face he has spoken contemptuously of the three
+prerogatives of the throne,[14] unto which he aspires.'
+
+"At these words King Tawny-hide stood aghast.
+
+'Your Majesty,' continued Damanaka, 'has placed him above us all in the
+Court. Sire! he must be displaced!--
+
+    'Teeth grown loose, and wicked-hearted ministers, and poison-trees,
+    Pluck them by the roots together; 'Tis the thing that giveth ease,'
+
+'Good Jackal,' said the King, after some silence; 'this is indeed
+dreadful; but my regard for the Bull is very great, and it is said--
+
+    'Long-tried friends are friends to cleave to--never leave thou these
+            i' the lurch:--
+    What man shuns the fire as sinful for that once it burned a church?'
+
+'That is written of discarding old servants, may it please your
+Majesty,' observed Damanaka; 'and this Bull is quite a stranger,'
+
+'Wondrous strange!' replied the Lion; 'when I have advanced and
+protected him that he should plot against me!'
+
+'Your Majesty,' said the Jackal, 'knows what has been written--
+
+    'Raise an evil soul to honor, and his evil bents remain;
+    Bind a cur's tail ne'er so straightly, yet it curleth up again.'
+
+    'How, in sooth, should Trust and Honor change the evil nature's root?
+    Though one watered them with nectar, poison-trees bear deadly fruit.'
+
+I have now at least warned your Majesty: if evil comes, the fault is not
+mine,'
+
+'It will not do to condemn the Bull without inquiry,' mused the King;
+then he said aloud, 'shall we admonish him, think you, Damanaka?'
+
+'No, no, Sire!' exclaimed the Jackal, eagerly; 'that would spoil all our
+precautions--
+
+    'Safe within the husk of silence guard the seed of counsel so
+    That it break not--being broken, then the seedling will not grow,'
+
+What is to be done must be done with despatch. After censuring his
+treason, would your Majesty still trust the traitor?--
+
+    'Whoso unto ancient fondness takes again a faithless friend,
+    Like she-mules that die conceiving, in his folly finds his end,'
+
+'But wherein can the Bull injure me?' asked Tawny-hide; 'tell me that!'
+
+'Sire,' replied the Jackal, how can I tell it?--
+
+    'Ask who his friends are, ere you scorn your foe;
+    The Wagtail foiled the sea, that did not so,'
+
+'How could that be?' demanded King Tawny-hide.
+
+'The Jackal related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE WAGTAIL AND THE SEA
+
+"On the shore of the Southern Sea there dwelt a pair of Wagtails. The
+Hen-bird was about to lay, and thus addressed her mate:--
+
+'Husband, we must look about for a fit place to lay my eggs.'
+
+'My dear,' replied the Cock-bird, 'will not this spot do?'
+
+'This spot!' exclaimed the Hen; 'why, the tide overflows it.'
+
+'Good dame,' said the Cock, 'am I so pitiful a fellow that the Sea will
+venture to wash the eggs out of my nest?'
+
+'You are my very good Lord,' replied the Hen, with a laugh; 'but still
+there is a great difference between you and the Sea.'
+
+"Afterwards, however, at the desire of her mate, she consented to lay
+her eggs on the sea-beach. Now the Ocean had overheard all this, and,
+bent upon displaying its strength, it rose and washed away the nest and
+eggs. Overwhelmed with grief, the Hen-bird flew to her mate, and
+cried:--
+
+'Husband, the terrible disaster has occurred! My eggs arc gone!'
+
+'Be of good heart! my Life,' answered he.
+
+"And therewith he called a meeting of fowls, and went with them into the
+presence of Gurud, the Lord of the birds. When the Master of the Mighty
+Wing had listened to their complaint, he conveyed it to the knowledge of
+the God Narayen, who keeps, and kills, and makes alive the world. The
+almighty mandate given, Gurud bound it upon his forehead, and bore it to
+the Ocean, which, so soon as it heard the will of Narayen, at once gave
+back the eggs.
+
+'How, indeed,' concluded Damanaka, 'should I judge of the Bull's power,
+not knowing who supports him?'
+
+'By what signs, then,' asked the King, 'may I conclude him a traitor?'
+
+'If he comes into the presence with his horns lowered for goring, as one
+that expects the fight. That,' replied the Jackal, 'will convince your
+Majesty,'
+
+'Thereupon Damanaka the Jackal withdrew, and betook himself towards the
+Bull, upon perceiving whom he approached slowly, with all the air of one
+greatly distressed.
+
+'Good master Jackal,' said Lusty-life, 'what goes amiss with thee?'
+
+'All goes amiss with such as serve wicked masters,' replied the Jackal.
+
+'But what ails thee?' asked the Bull.
+
+'Alas!' answered the Jackal, 'what can I say in such a strait!--
+
+    'Even as one who grasps a serpent, drowning in the bitter sea,
+    Death to hold and death to loosen--such is life's perplexity.'
+
+'And therewithal the Jackal heaved a deep sigh, and squatted down.
+
+'But, good friend,' said the Bull, 'at least tell me what is in thy
+mind.'
+
+'Bull,' began Damanaka, 'it is a King's secret, and should not be
+spoken; but thou didst come here upon my safeguard, and as I hope for
+the life to come, I will tell thee of what touches thee so nearly.
+Listen!--the heart of the King is turned against thee! he hath sworn
+secretly that he will kill thee and feast upon thy flesh.'
+
+'Then Lusty-life the Bull was sorely troubled, and he fell a-musing
+thus--
+
+    "Woman's love rewards the worthless--kings of knaves exalters be;
+    Wealth attends the selfish niggard, and the cloud rains on the sea."
+
+'Can this be the Jackal's doing?' he reflected. Going with honest folk
+will not make one honest--
+
+    'Many a knave wins fair opinions standing in fair company,
+    As the sooty soorma pleases, lighted by a brilliant eye.'
+
+Then he said aloud, 'wherein can I have angered the King? Do kings hate
+without cause? I can tell nothing, except that there is no happiness
+which abides long--
+
+    'Where the azure lotus[15] blossoms, there the alligators hide;
+    In the sandal-tree are serpents. Pain and pleasure live allied.'
+
+I thought his Majesty noble as the sandal-tree; but that, indeed, is not
+wholly noble--
+
+    'Rich the sandal--yet no part is but a vile thing habits there;
+    Snake and wasp haunt root and blossom; on the boughs sit ape and bear.'
+
+'Bull,' said Damanaka, 'I knew the King of old for one whose tongue was
+honey and whose heart was poison.'
+
+'But how very hard!' said the Bull, 'that he, being a lion, should
+attack me, an innocent eater of grass!'
+
+'It is very hard!' said the Jackal.
+
+'Who can have set him against me?' asked the Bull.
+
+'Being so, it cannot be bettered,' replied the Jackal, 'whoever did it--
+
+    'As a bracelet of crystal, once broke, is not mended;
+    So the favor of princes, once altered, is ended.'
+
+'Yes,' said the Bull, 'and a king incensed is terrible--
+
+    'Wrath of kings, and rage of lightning--both be very full of dread;
+    But one falls on one man only--one strikes many victims dead,'
+
+Still, I can but die--and I will die fighting! When death is certain,
+and no hope left but in battle, that is the time for war,'
+
+'It is so,' said the Jackal.
+
+'Having weighed all this, Lusty-life inquired of the Jackal by what
+signs he might conclude the King's hostile intentions.
+
+'If he glowers upon thee,' answered Damanaka, 'and awaits thee with ears
+pricked, tail stiffened, paw upraised, and muzzle agape, then thou
+mayest get thee to thy weapons like a Bull of spirit, for
+
+    'All men scorn the soulless coward who his manhood doth forget:--
+    On a lifeless heap of ashes fearlessly the foot is set,'
+
+'Then Damanaka the Jackal returned to the Lion, and said to him:--
+
+'If it please your Majesty, the traitor is now coming; let your Majesty
+be on your guard, with ears pricked and paw upraised.'
+
+'The Bull meanwhile approached, and observing the hostile attitude of
+King Tawny-hide, he also lowered his horns, and prepared for the combat.
+A terrible battle ensued, and at the last King Tawny-hide slew
+Lusty-life the Bull. Now when the Bull was dead, the Lion was very
+sorrowful, and as he sat on his throne lamenting, he said--
+
+'I repent me of this deed!--
+
+    'As when an Elephant's life-blood is spilt,
+    Another hath the spoils--mine is the guilt.'
+
+'Sire,' replied the Jackal, 'a King over-merciful is like a Brahman
+that eats all things equally. May all your Majesty's enemies perish as
+did this Bull.'
+
+"Thus endeth," said the Sage Vishnu-Sarman, "the 'Parting of Friends.'"
+
+"We are gratified exceedingly thereby," replied the Sons of the King.
+
+"Let me then close it thus," said their Preceptor--
+
+      'So be friendship never parted,
+      But among the evil-hearted;
+      Time's sure step drag, soon or later,
+      To his judgment, such a Traitor;
+      Lady Lukshmi, of her grace,
+      Grant good fortune to this place;
+    And you, Royal boys! and boys of times to be
+    In this fair fable-garden wander free.'
+
+
+[12] The white umbrella borne above the heads of Indian rajahs.
+
+[13] The deity of prudence.
+
+[14] Regal authority derives its rights from three sources: Power,
+Prescription or continuance, and Wisdom.
+
+[15] The lotus resembles the water-lily, but is more varied in form and
+color.
+
+
+
+
+WAR
+
+
+When the next day of instruction was come, the King's sons spake to the
+Sage, Vishnu-Sarman.
+
+"Master," said they, "we are Princes, and the sons of Princes, and we
+earnestly desire to hear thee discourse upon War."
+
+"I am to speak on what shall please you," replied Vishnu-Sarman. "Hear
+now, therefore, of 'War,' whose opening is thus:--
+
+    'Between the peoples of Peacock and Swan[16]
+    War raged; and evenly the contest ran,
+    Until the Swans to trust the Crows began.'
+
+'And how was all that?' asked the sons of the Rajah. Vishnu-Sarman
+proceeded to relate--
+
+
+THE BATTLE OF THE SWANS AND PEACOCKS
+
+"In the Isle of Camphor there is a lake called 'Lotus-water,' and
+therein a Swan-Royal, named 'Silver-sides,' had his residence. The birds
+of the marsh and the mere had elected him King, in full council of all
+the fowls--for a people with no ruler is like a ship that is without a
+helmsman. One day King Silver-sides, with his courtiers, was quietly
+reposing on a couch of well-spread lotus-blossoms, when a Crane, named
+'Long-bill,' who had just arrived from foreign parts, entered the
+presence with an obeisance, and sat down.
+
+'What news from abroad, Long-bill?' asked his Majesty.
+
+'Great news, may it please you,' answered the Crane, 'and therefore have
+I hastened hither. Will your Majesty hear me?'
+
+'Speak!' said King Silver-sides.
+
+'You must know, my Liege,' began the Crane, 'that over all the birds of
+the Vindhya mountains in Jambudwipa a Peacock is King, and his name is
+'Jewel-plume,' I was looking for food about a certain burnt jungle
+there, when some of his retainers discovered me, and asked my name and
+country. 'I am a vassal of King Silver-sides, Lord of the Island of
+Camphor,' I replied, 'and I am travelling in foreign lands for my
+pleasure.' Upon that the birds asked me which country, my own or theirs,
+and which King, appeared to me superior. 'How can you ask?' I replied;
+'the island of Camphor is, as it were, Heaven itself, and its King a
+heaven-born ruler. To dwellers in a barren land like yours how can I
+describe them? Come for yourselves, and see the country where I live.'
+Thereupon, your Majesty, the birds were exceedingly offended, as one
+might expect--
+
+    'Simple milk, when serpents drink it, straightway into venom turns;
+    And a fool who heareth counsel all the wisdom of it spurns.'
+
+For, indeed, no reflecting person wastes time in admonishing
+blockheads--
+
+    'The birds that took the apes to teaching,
+    Lost eggs and nests in pay for preaching.'
+
+'How did that befall?' asked the King.
+
+The Crane related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE WEAVER-BIRDS AND THE MONKEYS
+
+"In a nullah that leads down to the Nerbudda river there stood a large
+silk-cotton tree, where a colony of weaver-birds had built their hanging
+nests, and lived snugly in them, whatever the weather. It was in the
+rainy season, when the heavens are overlaid with clouds like
+indigo-sheets, and a tremendous storm of water was falling. The birds
+looked out from their nests, and saw some monkeys, shivering and starved
+with the cold, standing under a tree. 'Twit! twit! you Monkeys,' they
+began to chirrup. 'Listen to us!--
+
+    'With beaks we built these nests, of fibres scattered;
+    You that have hands and feet, build, or be spattered.'
+
+On hearing that the Monkeys were by no means pleased. 'Ho! ho!' said
+they, 'the Birds in their snug nests are jeering at us; wait till the
+rain is over,' Accordingly, so soon as the weather mended, the Monkeys
+climbed into the tree, and broke all the birds' eggs and demolished
+every nest. I ought to have known better,' concluded the Crane, 'than to
+have wasted my suggestions on King Jewel-plume's creatures.'
+
+'But what did they say?' asked Silver-sides.
+
+'They said, Rajah,' answered the Crane, 'who made that Swan of thine a
+King?'
+
+'And what was your reply?' asked Silver-sides.
+
+'I demanded,' replied the Crane, 'who made a King of that Peacock of
+theirs. Thereupon they were ready to kill me for rage; but I displayed
+my very best valor. Is it not written--
+
+    'A modest manner fits a maid,
+      And Patience is a man's adorning;
+    But brides may kiss, nor do amiss,
+      And men may draw, at scathe and scorning.'
+
+'Yet a man should measure his own strength first,' said the Rajah,
+smiling; 'how did you fare against King Jewel-plume's fellows?'
+
+'Very scurvily,' replied Long-bill. "Thou rascal Crane," they cried,
+"dost thou feed on his soil, and revile our Sovereign? That is past
+bearing!" And thereat they all pecked at me. Then they began again:
+"Thou thick-skulled Crane! that King of thine is a goose--a web-footed
+lord of littleness--and thou art but a frog in a well to bid us serve
+him--- him forsooth!--
+
+    'Serving narrow-minded masters dwarfs high natures to their size:--
+    Seen before a convex mirror, elephants do show as mice.'
+
+Bad kings are only strong enough to spoil good vassals--as a fiction
+once was mightier than a herd of elephants. You know it, don't you?--
+
+    'Mighty may prove things insignificant:--
+    A tale of moonshine turned an elephant.'
+
+'No! how was that?' I asked.
+
+The birds related--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE OLD HARE AND THE ELEPHANTS
+
+"Once on a time, very little rain had fallen in the due season; and the
+Elephants being oppressed with thirst, thus accosted their
+leader:--'Master, how are we to live? The small creatures find something
+to wash in, but we cannot, and we are half dead in consequence; whither
+shall we go then, and what shall we do?' Upon that the King of the
+Elephants led them away a little space; and showed them a beautiful pool
+of crystal water, where they took their ease. Now it chanced that a
+company of Hares resided on the banks of the pool, and the going and
+coming of the elephants trampled many of them to death, till one of
+their number named Hard-head grumbled out, 'This troop will be coming
+here to water every day, and every one of our family will be crushed.'
+'Do not disquiet yourself,' said an old buck named Good-speed, 'I will
+contrive to avert it,' and so saying, he set off, bethinking himself on
+his way how he should approach and accost a herd of elephants; for,
+
+    'Elephants destroy by touching, snakes with point of tooth beguile;
+    Kings by favor kill, and traitors murder with a fatal smile.'
+
+'I will get on the top of a hill,' he thought, 'and address the
+Elephants thence.'
+
+"This being done, and the Lord of the herd perceiving him, it was asked
+of the Hare, 'Who art thou? and whence comest thou?'
+
+'I am an ambassador from his Godship the Moon,' replied Good-speed.
+
+'State your business,' said the Elephant-king.
+
+'Sire,' began the Hare, 'an ambassador speaks the truth safely by
+charter of his name. Thus saith the Moon, then: "These hares were the
+guardians of my pool, and thine elephants in coming thither have scared
+them away. This is not well. Am I not Sasanka, whose banner bears a
+hare, and are not these hares my votaries?"'
+
+'Please your worship,' said the Elephant-king with much trepidation, 'we
+knew nothing of this; we will go there no more.'
+
+'It were well,' said the sham ambassador, 'that you first made your
+apologies to the Divinity, who is quaking with rage in his pool, and
+then went about your business.'
+
+'We will do so,' replied the Elephant with meekness; and being led by
+night to the pool, in the ripples of which the image of the Moon was
+quivering, the herd made their prostrations; the Hare explaining to the
+Moon that their fault was done in ignorance, and thereupon they got
+their dismissal.'
+
+'Nay,' I said, 'my Sovereign is no fiction, but a great King and a
+noble, and one that might govern the Three Worlds, much more a kingdom,'
+
+'Thou shalt talk thy treason in the presence,' they cried; and therewith
+I was dragged before King Jewel-plume.
+
+'Who is this?' asked the Rajah.
+
+'He is a servant of King Silver-sides, of the Island of Camphor,' they
+replied; 'and he slights your Majesty, on your Majesty's own land.'
+
+'Sirrah Crane!' said the Prime Minister, a Vulture, 'who is chief
+officer in that court?'
+
+'A Brahmany Goose,' I answered, 'named "Know-all"; and he does know
+every possible science.'
+
+'Sire,' broke in a Parrot, 'this Camphor-isle and the rest are poor
+places, and belong to Jambudwipa. Your Majesty has but to plant the
+royal foot upon them.'
+
+'Oh! of course,' said the King.
+
+'Nay,' said I, 'if talking makes your Majesty King of Camphor-island, my
+Liege may be lord of Jambudwipa by a better title.'
+
+'And that?' said the Parrot.
+
+'Is fighting!' I responded.
+
+'Good!' said the King, with a smile; 'bid your people prepare for war.'
+
+'Not so,' I replied; 'but send your own ambassador.'
+
+'Who will bear the message?' asked the Rajah. 'He should be loyal,
+dexterous, and bold.'
+
+'And virtuous,' said the Vulture, 'and therefore a Brahman:--
+
+    'Better Virtue marked a herald than that noble blood should deck;
+    Shiva reigns forever Shiva while the sea-wave stains his neck.'
+
+'Then let the Parrot be appointed,' said the Rajah.
+
+'I am your Majesty's humble servant,' replied the Parrot; 'but this
+Crane is a bad character, and with the bad I never like to travel. The
+ten-headed Ravana carried off the wife of Ramchundra! It does not do,
+
+    'With evil people neither stay nor go;
+    The Heron died for being with the Crow.'
+
+'How did that befall?' asked the King. The Parrot related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE HERON AND THE CROW
+
+'The high-road to Oogein is a very unshaded and sultry one; but there
+stands upon it one large Peepul-tree, and therein a Crow and a Heron had
+their residence together. It was in the hot weather that a tired
+traveller passed that way, and, for the sake of the shade, he laid his
+bow and arrows down, and dropped asleep under the tree. Before long the
+shadow of the tree shifted, and left his face exposed to the glare;
+which the Heron perceiving, like the kindly bird he was, perched on the
+Peepul-tree, and spread his wings out so as to cast a shadow on the
+traveller's face. There the poor fellow, weary with his travel,
+continued to sleep soundly, and snored away comfortably with open mouth.
+The sight of his enjoyment was too much for the malevolent Crow, who,
+perching over him, dropped an unwelcome morsel into the sleeper's mouth,
+and straightway flew off. The traveller, starting from his slumber,
+looked about, and, seeing no bird but the Heron, he fitted an arrow and
+shot him dead. No!' concluded the Parrot, 'I like the society of honest
+folk.'
+
+'But why these words, my brother?' I said; 'his Majesty's herald is to
+me even as his Majesty.'
+
+'Very fine!' replied the Parrot; 'but--
+
+    'Kindly courtesies that issue from a smiling villain's mouth
+    Serve to startle, like a flower blossoming in time of drouth.'
+
+Needs must that thou art a bad man; for by thy talk war will have
+arisen, which a little conciliation had averted:--
+
+    'Conciliation!--weapon of the wise!
+    Wheedled therewith, by woman's quick device,
+    The Wheelwright let his ears betray his eyes.'
+
+'How came that about?' asked the King. The Parrot related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE APPEASED WHEELWRIGHT
+
+"There was a Wheelwright in Shri-nuggur, whose name was 'Heavy-head,' He
+had good reason to suspect the infidelity of his wife, but he had no
+absolute proof of it. One day he gave out that he should go to a
+neighboring town, and he started accordingly; but he went a very little
+way, and then returning, hid himself in his wife's chamber. She being
+quite satisfied that he was really gone away, invited her gallant to
+pass the evening with her, and began to spend it with him in
+unrestrained freedom. Presently, by chance, she detected the presence of
+her husband, and her manner instantly changed.
+
+'Life of my soul! what ails you?' said her lover; 'you are quite dull
+to-night.'
+
+'I am dull,' she replied, 'because the lord of my life is gone. Without
+my husband the town is a wilderness. Who knows what may befall him, and
+whether he will have a nice supper?'
+
+'Trouble thyself no more about the quarrelsome dullard,' said her
+gallant.
+
+'Dullard, quotha!' exclaimed the wife. 'What matter what he is, since he
+is my all? Knowest thou not--
+
+    'Of the wife the lord is jewel, though no gems upon her beam;
+    Lacking him, she lacks adornment, howsoe'er her jewels gleam?'
+
+Thou, and the like of thee, may serve a whim, as we chew a betel-leaf
+and trifle with a flower; but my husband is my master, and can do with
+me as he will. My life is wrapped up in him--and when he dies, alas! I
+will certainly die too. Is it not plainly said--
+
+    'Hairs three-crore, and half-a-crore hairs, on a man so many grow--
+    And so many years to Swerga shall the true wife surely go?'
+
+And better still is promised; as herein--
+
+    'When the faithful wife,[17] embracing tenderly her husband dead,
+    Mounts the blazing pile beside him, as it were the bridal-bed;
+    Though his sins were twenty thousand, twenty thousand times o'er-told,
+    She shall bring his soul to splendor, for her love so large and bold.'
+
+All this the Wheelwright heard. 'What a lucky fellow I am,' he thought,
+'to have a wife so virtuous,' and rushing from his place of concealment,
+he exclaimed in ecstasy to his wife's gallant, 'Sir I saw you ever truer
+wife than mine?'
+
+'When the story was concluded,' said Long-bill, 'the King, with a
+gracious gift of food, sent me off before the Parrot; but he is coming
+after me, and it is now for your Majesty to determine as it shall please
+you.'
+
+'My Liege,' observed the Brahmany-goose with a sneer, 'the Crane has
+done the King's business in foreign parts to the best of his power,
+which is that of a fool.'
+
+"Let the past pass," replied the King, "and take thought for the
+present."
+
+"Be it in secret, then, your Majesty," said the Brahmany-goose--
+
+    'Counsel unto six ears spoken, unto all is notified:--
+    When a King holds consultation, let it be with one beside,'
+
+Thereupon all withdrew, but the Rajah and the Minister.
+
+'What think you?' said Silver-sides.
+
+'That the Crane has been employed to bring this about,' replied the
+other.
+
+'What shall we do?' asked the King.
+
+'Despatch two spies--the first to inform and send back the other, and
+make us know the enemy's strength or weakness. They must be such as can
+travel by land and water, so the Crane will serve for one, and we will
+keep his family in pledge at the King's gate. The other must be a very
+reserved character; as it is said--
+
+    'Sick men are for skilful leeches--prodigals for prisoning--
+    Fools for teachers--and the man who keeps a secret, for a King,'
+
+'I know such a one,' said his Majesty, after a pause.
+
+'It is half the victory,' responded the Minister.
+
+At this juncture a chamberlain entered with a profound obeisance, and
+announced the arrival from Jambudwipa of the Parrot.
+
+'Let him be shown to a reception-room,' commanded the Goose, in reply to
+a look from the King. 'He shall presently have audience.'
+
+'War is pronounced, then,' said the King, as the attendant withdrew.
+
+'It is offered, my Liege; but must not be rashly accepted,' replied the
+other--
+
+    'With gift, craft, promise, cause thy foe to yield;
+    When these have failed thee, challenge him a-field.'
+
+To gain time for expedients is the first point. Expedients are good for
+great and little matters equally, like
+
+    'The subtle wash of waves, that smoothly pass,
+    But lay the tree as lowly as the grass.'
+
+Let his Excellency the Parrot, then, be cajoled and detained here, while
+we place our fort in condition to be useful. Is it not said--
+
+    'Ten true bowmen on a rampart fifty's onset may sustain;
+    Fortalices keep a country more than armies in the plain?'
+
+And your Majesty,' continued the Goose, 'will recall the points of a
+good fortress--
+
+    'Build it strong, and build it spacious, with an entry and retreat;
+    Store it well with wood and water, fill its garners full with wheat.'
+
+'Whom, then, shall we entrust with this work?' asked King Silver-sides.
+
+'The Paddy-bird[18] is a good bird, and a skilful,' replied his
+Minister.
+
+'Let him be summoned!' said the King. And upon the entrance of the
+Paddy-bird, the superintendence of the fortress was committed to him,
+and accepted with a low prostration.
+
+'As to the fort, Sire!' remarked the Paddy-bird, 'it exists already in
+yonder large pool; the thing is to store the island in the middle of it
+with provisions--
+
+    'Gems will no man's life sustain;
+    Best of gold is golden grain.'
+
+'Good!' said King Silver-sides; 'let it be looked to.' Thereupon, as the
+Paddy-bird was retiring, the Usher entered again, and making
+prostration, said: 'May it please your Majesty, the King of all the
+Crows, Night-cloud by name, has just arrived from Singhala-dwipa, and
+desires to lay his homage at your Majesty's feet.'
+
+'He is a wise bird, and a far-travelled,' said the King; 'I think we
+must give him audience.'
+
+Nevertheless, Sire,' interrupted the Goose, 'we must not forget that he
+is a land-bird, and therefore not to be received as a water-fowl. Your
+royal memory doubtless retains the story of
+
+    'The Jackal's fate, who being colored blue,
+    Leaving his party, left his own life too.'
+
+'No! How was that?' asked King Silver-sides. The Goose related--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE DYED JACKAL
+
+"A Jackal once on a time, as he was prowling about the suburbs of a
+town, slipped into an indigo-tank; and not being able to get out he laid
+himself down so as to be taken for dead. The dyer presently coming and
+finding what seemed a dead Jackal, carried him into the jungle and then
+flung him away. Left to himself, the Jackal found his natural color
+changed to a splendid blue. 'Really,' he reflected, 'I am now of a most
+magnificent tint; why should I not make it conduce to my elevation?'
+With this view, he assembled the other Jackals, and thus harangued
+them:--
+
+'Good people, the Goddess of the Wood, with her own divine hand, and
+with every magical herb of the forest, has anointed me King. Behold the
+complexion of royalty!--and henceforward transact nothing without my
+imperial permission."
+
+"The Jackals, overcome by so distinguished a color, could do nothing but
+prostrate themselves and promise obedience. His reign, thus begun,
+extended in time to the lions and tigers; and with these high-born
+attendants he allowed himself to despise the Jackals, keeping his own
+kindred at a distance, as though ashamed of them. The Jackals were
+indignant, but an old beast of their number thus consoled them:--
+
+"Leave the impudent fellow to me. I will contrive his ruin. These tigers
+and the rest think him a King, because he is colored blue; we must show
+them his true colors. Do this, now!--in the evening-time come close
+about him, and set up a great yell together--he is sure to join in, as
+he used to do--
+
+    'Hard it is to conquer nature: if a dog were made a King,
+    Mid the coronation trumpets, he would gnaw his sandal-string.'
+
+And when he yells the Tigers will know him for a Jackal and fall upon
+him.'
+
+'The thing befell exactly so, and the Jackal,' concluded the Minister,
+'met the fate of one who leaves his proper party.'
+
+'Still,' said the King, 'the Crow has come a long way, and we might see
+him, I think.'
+
+'Admit the Parrot first, Sire,' said the Goose; 'the fort has been put
+in order and the spy despatched.'
+
+"Thereupon a Court was called, and the Parrot introduced, followed by
+Night-cloud, the Crow. A seat was offered to the parrot, who took it,
+and, with his beak in the air, thus delivered his mission:--
+
+'King Silver-sides!--My master, the King Jewel-plume, Lord of Lords,
+bids thee, if life and lands be dear to thee, to come and make homage at
+his august feet; and failing this to get thee gone from Camphor-island.'
+
+'S'death!' exclaimed the Rajah, 'is there none that will silence this
+traitor?'
+
+'Give the sign, your Majesty,' said the Crow, starting up, 'and I will
+despatch this audacious bird.'
+
+'Sir,' said the Goose, 'be calm! and Sire, deign to listen--
+
+    ''Tis no Council where no Sage is--'tis no Sage that fears not Law;
+    'Tis no Law which Truth confirms not--'tis no Truth which Fear can
+            awe.'
+
+An ambassador must speak unthreatened--
+
+    'Though base be the Herald, nor hinder nor let,
+      For the mouth of a king is he;
+    The sword may be whet, and the battle set,
+      But the word of his message is free.'
+
+Thereat the Rajah and Night-cloud resumed their composure; and the
+Parrot took his departure, escorted by the Minister, and presented with
+complimentary gifts of gold and jewels. On reaching the palace of
+Jewel-plume, the King demanded his tidings, and inquired of the country
+he had visited.
+
+'War must be prepared, may it please you,' said the Parrot: 'the
+country is a country of Paradise.'
+
+'Prepare for war, then!' said the King.
+
+'We must not enter on it in the face of destiny,' interposed the
+Vulture-Minister, whose title was 'Far-sight.'
+
+'Let the Astrologer then discover a favorable conjuncture for the
+expedition, and let my forces be reviewed meantime,' said the King.
+
+'We must not march without great circumspection,' observed Far-sight.
+
+'Minister!' exclaimed the King, 'you chafe me. Say, however, with what
+force we should set out.'
+
+'It should be well selected, rather than unwieldy,' replied the
+Vulture--
+
+    'Better few and chosen fighters than of shaven crowns a host,
+    For in headlong flight confounded, with the base the brave are lost.'
+
+And its commanders must be judiciously appointed; for it is said--
+
+    'Ever absent, harsh, unjustly portioning the captured prey--
+    These, and cold or laggard leaders make a host to melt away.'
+
+'Ah!' interrupted the Rajah, 'what need of so much talk? We will go,
+and, if Vachaspati please, we will conquer.'
+
+Shortly afterwards the Spy returned to Camphor-island. 'King
+Silver-sides,' he cried, 'the Rajah, Jewel-plume, is on his way hither,
+and has reached the Ghauts. Let the fort be manned, for that Vulture is
+a great minister; and I have learned, too, that there is one among us
+who is in his pay.'
+
+'King!' said the Goose, 'that must be the Crow.'
+
+'But whence, then, did he show such willingness to punish the Parrot?'
+objected his Majesty. 'Besides, war was declared long after the Crow
+came to Court.'
+
+'I misdoubt him,' said the Minister, 'because he is a stranger.'
+
+'But strangers surely may be well-disposed,' replied the King. 'How say
+the books?--
+
+    'Kind is kin, howe'er a stranger--kin unkind is stranger shown;
+    Sores hurt, though the body breeds them--drugs relieve, though
+            desert-grown.'
+
+Have you never heard of King Sudraka and the unknown Servant, who gave
+his son's life for the King?
+
+'Never,' answered the Goose.
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE FAITHFUL RAJPOOT
+
+"I will tell you the tale," said the King, "as I heard it from
+'Lilyflower,' daughter of the Flamingo 'White-flag,' of whom I was once
+very fond:--A soldier presented himself one morning at King Sudraka's
+gate, and bade the porter procure an audience for 'Vira-vara, a
+Rajpoot,'[19] who sought employment. Being admitted to the presence, he
+thus addressed the King:--
+
+'If your Highness needs an attendant, behold one!'
+
+'What pay do you ask?' inquired the King.
+
+'Five hundred pieces of gold a day,' said Vira-vara.
+
+'And your accoutrements?' asked the King.
+
+'Are these two arms, and this sabre, which serve for a third,' said
+Vira-vara, rolling up his sleeve.
+
+'I cannot entertain you,' rejoined his Majesty; and thereupon the
+Rajpoot made salaam, and withdrew. Then said the Ministers, 'If it
+please your Majesty, the stipend is excessive, but give him pay for four
+days, and see wherein he may deserve it.' Accordingly, the Rajpoot was
+recalled, and received wages for four days, with the complimentary
+betel.--Ah! the rare betel! Truly say the wise of it--
+
+    'Betel-nut is bitter, hot, sweet, spicy, binding, alkaline--
+    A demulcent--an astringent--foe to evils intestine;
+    Giving to the breath a fragrance--to the lips a crimson red;
+    A detergent, and a kindler of Love's flame that lieth dead.
+    Praise the gods for the good Betel!--these be thirteen virtues given,
+    Hard to meet in one thing blended, even in their happy heaven.'
+
+'Now the King narrowly watched the spending of Vira-vara's pay, and
+discovered that he bestowed half in the service of the Gods and the
+support of Brahmans, a fourth part in relieving the poor, and reserved a
+fourth for his sustenance and recreation. This daily division made, he
+would take his stand with his sabre at the gate of the palace; retiring
+only upon receiving the royal permission.
+
+'It was on the fourteenth night of the dark half of the month that King
+Sudraka heard below a sound of passionate sobbing. 'Ho! there,' he
+cried, 'who waits at the gate?'
+
+'I,' replied Vira-vara, 'may it please you.'
+
+'Go and learn what means this weeping,' said the King.
+
+'I go, your Majesty,' answered the Rajpoot, and therewith departed.
+
+'No sooner was he gone than the King repented him of sending one man
+alone into a night so dark that a bodkin might pierce a hole in it, and
+girding on his scimitar, he followed his guard beyond the city gates.
+When Vira-vara had gone thus far he encountered a beautiful and
+splendidly dressed lady who was weeping bitterly; and accosting her, he
+requested to know her name, and why she thus lamented.
+
+'I am the Fortune of the King Sudraka,' answered she; 'a long while I
+have lived happily in the shadow of his arm; but on the third day he
+will die, and I must depart, and therefore lament I.'
+
+'Can nothing serve, Divine Lady, to prolong thy stay?' asked the
+Rajpoot.
+
+'It might be,' replied the Spirit, 'if thou shouldst cut off the head of
+thy first-born Shaktidhar, that hath on his body the thirty-two
+auspicious marks of greatness. Were his head offered to the all-helpful
+Durga, the Rajah should live a hundred years, and I might tarry beside
+him.'
+
+'So speaking, she disappeared, and Vira-vara retraced his steps to his
+own house and awoke his wife and son. They arose, and listened with
+attention until Vira-vara had repeated all the words of the vision. When
+he had finished, Shaktidhar exclaimed, 'I am thrice happy to be able to
+save the state of the King. Kill me, my father, and linger not; to give
+my life in such a cause is good indeed,' 'Yes,' said the Mother, 'it is
+good, and worthy of our blood; how else should we deserve the King's
+pay?' Being thus agreed, they repaired together at once to the temple of
+the Goddess Durga, and having paid their devotions and entreated the
+favor of the deity on behalf of the King, Vira-vara struck off his son's
+head, and laid it as an offering upon the shrine. That done, Vira-vara
+said, 'My service to the King is accomplished, and life without my boy
+is but a burden,' and therewith he plunged his sword in his own breast
+and fell dead. Overpowered with grief for her husband and child, the
+mother also withdrew the twice-blooded weapon, and slew herself with it
+on the bodies of Vira-vara and Shaktidhar.
+
+'All this was heard and seen by King Sudraka, and he stood aghast at the
+sad sight. 'Woe is me!' he exclaimed--
+
+    'Kings may come, and Kings may go;
+    What was I, to bring these low?
+    Souls so noble, slain for me,
+    Were not, and will never be!'
+
+What reck I of my realm, having lost these?' and thereat he drew his
+scimitar to take his own life also. At that moment there appeared to him
+the Goddess, who is Mistress of all men's fortunes. 'Son,' said she,
+staying his lifted hand, 'forbear thy rash purpose, and bethink thee of
+thy kingdom.'
+
+"The Rajah fell prostrate before her, and cried--'O Goddess! I am done
+with life and wealth and kingdom! If thou hast compassion on me, let my
+death restore these faithful ones to life; anywise I follow the path
+they have marked,' 'Son,' replied the Goddess, 'thine affection is
+pleasing to me: be it as thou wilt! The Rajpoot and his house shall be
+rendered alive to thee.' Then the King departed, and presently saw
+Vira-vara return, and take up again his station as before at the
+palace-gate.
+
+'Ho! there, Vira-vara!' cried the King, 'what meant the weeping?'
+
+'Let your Majesty rest well!' answered the Rajpoot, 'it was a woman who
+wept, and disappeared on my approach.' This answer completed the Rajah's
+astonishment and delight; for we know--
+
+    'He is brave whose tongue is silent of the trophies of his sword;
+    He is great whose quiet bearing marks his greatness well assured.'
+
+So when the day was come, he called a full council, and, declaring
+therein all the events of the night, he invested the faithful guard with
+the sovereignty of the Carnatic.
+
+"Thus, then," concluded King Silver-sides, "in entertaining strangers a
+man may add to his friends."
+
+"It may well be," replied the Goose; "but a Minister should advise what
+is expedient, and not what is pleasing in sentiment:--
+
+    'When the Priest, the Leech, the Vizir of a King his flatterers be,
+    Very soon the King will part with health, and wealth, and piety.'
+
+'Let it pass, then,' said Silver-sides, 'and turn we to the matter in
+hand. King Jewel-plume is even now pitched under the Ghauts. What think
+you?'
+
+'That we shall vanquish him,' replied the Goose; 'for he disregards, as
+I learn, the counsel of that great statesman, the Vulture Far-sight; and
+the wise have said--
+
+    'Merciless, or money-loving, deaf to counsel, false of faith,
+    Thoughtless, spiritless, or careless, changing course with every
+            breath,
+    Or the man who scorns his rival--if a prince should choose a foe,
+    Ripe for meeting and defeating, certes he would choose him so.
+
+He is marching without due preparation; let us send the Paddy-bird at
+the head of a force and attack him on his march."
+
+Accordingly the Paddy-bird, setting out with a force of water-fowl, fell
+upon the host of the Peacock-king, and did immense execution.
+Disheartened thereat, King Jewel-plume summoned Far-sight, his Minister,
+and acknowledged to him his precipitation.
+
+'Wherefore do you abandon us, my father?' he said. 'Correct for us what
+has been done amiss.
+
+'My Liege,' replied the Vulture, 'it has been well observed--
+
+    'By the valorous and unskilful great achievements are not wrought;
+    Courage, led by careful Prudence, unto highest ends is brought.'
+
+You have set Strength in the seat of Counsel, your Majesty, and he hath
+clumsily spoiled your plans. How indeed could it fall otherwise? for--
+
+    'Grief kills gladness, winter summer, midnight-gloom the light of day,
+    Kindnesses ingratitude, and pleasant friends drive pain away;
+    Each ends each, but none of other surer conquerors can be
+    Than Impolicy of Fortune--of Misfortune Policy.'
+
+I have said to myself, 'My Prince's understanding is affected--how else
+would he obscure the moonlight of policy with the night-vapors of talk;'
+in such a mood I cannot help him--
+
+    'Wisdom answers all who ask her, but a fool she cannot aid;
+    Blind men in the faithful mirror see not their reflection made.'
+
+And therefore I have been absent.'
+
+'My father!' said the King, joining his palms in respect, 'mine is all
+the fault! Pardon it, and instruct me how to withdraw my army without
+further loss.'
+
+Then the Vulture's anger melted, and he reflected--
+
+    'Where the Gods are, or thy Guru--in the face of Pain and Age,
+    Cattle, Brahmans, Kings, and Children--reverently curb thy rage.'
+
+And with a benignant smile, he answered the King thus, 'Be of good
+heart, my Liege; thou shalt not only bring the host back safely, but
+thou shalt first destroy the castle of King Silver-sides.'
+
+'How can that be, with my diminished forces?' asked the Rajah.
+
+'It will come to pass!' answered the Vulture. 'Break up to-day for the
+blockade of the fort.'
+
+Now, when this was reported by the spies to King Silver-sides, he was
+greatly alarmed. 'Good Goose!' said he, 'what is to be done? Here is the
+King of the Peacocks at hand, to blockade us--by his Minister's advice,
+too.'
+
+'Sire,' replied the Goose, 'separate the efficient and the inefficient
+in your force; and stimulate the loyalty of the first, with a royal
+bounty of gold and dresses, as each may seem to merit. Now is the time
+for it--
+
+    'Oh, my Prince! on eight occasions prodigality is none--
+    In the solemn sacrificing, at the wedding of a son,
+    When the glittering treasure given makes the proud invader bleed,
+    Or its lustre bringeth comfort to the people in their need,
+    Or when kinsmen are to succor, or a worthy work to end,
+    Or to do a mistress honor, or to welcome back a friend.'
+
+'But is this expenditure needed?' said the King.
+
+'It is needed, my Liege,' said the Goose, 'and it befits a Monarch;
+for--
+
+    'Truth, munificence, and valor, are the virtues of a King;
+    Royalty, devoid of either, sinks to a rejected thing.'
+
+'Let it be incurred then!' replied the King.
+
+At this moment Night-cloud, the Crow, made his appearance. 'Deign me one
+regard, Sire,' said he, 'the insolent enemy is at our gates; let your
+Majesty give the word, and I will go forth and show my valor and
+devotion to your Crown.'
+
+'It were better to keep our cover,' said the Goose. 'Wherefore else
+builded we this fortalice? Is it not said?--
+
+    'Hold thy vantage!--alligators on the land make none afraid;
+    And the lion's but a jackal that hath left his forest-shade.'
+
+But go, your Majesty, and encourage our warriors." Thereupon they
+repaired to the Gateway of the Fort, and all day the battle raged there.
+
+It was the morning after, when King Jewel-plume spake thus to his
+Minister the Vulture--'Good sir, shall thy promise be kept to us?'
+
+'It shall be kept, your Majesty,' replied the Vulture; 'storm the fort!'
+
+'We will storm it!' said the Peacock-king. The sun was not well-risen
+accordingly when the attack was made, and there arose hot fighting at
+all the four gates. It was then that the traitorous Crows, headed by
+their Monarch, Night-cloud, put fire to every dwelling in the citadel,
+and raised a shout of 'The Fort is taken! it is taken!' At this terrible
+sound the soldiers of the Swan-king forsook their posts, and plunged
+into the pool.
+
+Not thus King Silver-sides:--retiring coolly before the foe, with his
+General the Paddy-bird, he was cut off and encircled by the troopers of
+King Jewel-plume, under the command of his Marshal, the Cock.
+
+'My General,' said the King, 'thou shalt not perish for me. Fly! I can
+go no farther. Fly! I bid thee, and take counsel with the Goose that
+Crest-jewel, my son, be named King!'
+
+'Good my Lord,' replied the Paddy-bird, 'speak not thus! Let your
+Majesty reign victorious while the sun and moon endure. I am governor of
+your Majesty's fortress, and if the enemy enter it he shall but do so
+over my body; let me die for thee, my Master!--
+
+    'Gentle, generous, and discerning; such a Prince the Gods do give!'
+
+'That shalt thou not,' replied the Rajah--
+
+    'Skilful, honest, and true-hearted; where doth such a Vassal live?'
+
+'Nay! my royal Lord, escape!' cried the Paddy-bird; a king's life is the
+life of his people--
+
+    'The people are the lotus-leaves, their monarch is the sun--
+    When he doth sink beneath the waves they vanish every one.
+
+    When he doth rise they rise again with bud and blossom rife,
+    To bask awhile in his warm smile, who is their lord and life.'
+
+'Think no more of me.' At this instant the Cock rushing forward,
+inflicted a wound with his sharp spurs on the person of the King; but
+the Paddy-bird sprang in front of him, and receiving on his body the
+blows designed for the Rajah, forced him away into the pool. Then
+turning upon the Cock, he despatched him with a shower of blows from his
+long bill; and finally succumbed, fighting in the midst of his enemies.
+Thus the King of the Peacocks captured the fortress; and marched home
+with all the treasure in it, amid songs of victory.
+
+Then spake the Princes: "In that army of the Swans there was no soldier
+like the Paddy-bird, who gave his own life for the King's."
+
+"There be nowhere many such," replied Vishnu-Sarman; "for
+
+    'All the cows bring forth are cattle--only now and then is born
+    An authentic lord of pastures, with his shoulder-scratching horn.'[20]
+
+"It is well spoken," said the Princes.
+
+"But for him that dares to die so," added the Sage, "may an eternal
+heaven be reserved, and may the lustrous Angels of Paradise, the
+Apsaras, conduct him thither! Is it not so declared, indeed?--
+
+    'When the soldier in the battle lays his life down for his king,
+    Unto Swerga's perfect glory such a deed his soul shall bring.'
+
+"It is so declared," said the Rajah's sons.
+
+"And now, my Princes," concluded Vishnu-Sarman, "you have listened to
+'War.'"
+
+"We have listened, and are gratified," replied the sons of the King.
+
+"Let me end then," said their Preceptor, "with this--
+
+      'If the clouds of Battle lower
+      When ye come into your power,
+      Durga grant the foes that dare you
+      Bring no elephants to scare you;
+      Nor the thunderous rush of horses,
+      Nor the footmen's steel-fringed forces:
+    But overblown by Policy's strong breath,
+    Hide they in caverns from the avenging death.'
+
+
+[16] The peacock is wild in most Indian jungles. The swan is a species
+of flamingo of a white color. The voice and gait of a beautiful woman
+are likened by the Hindoo poets to those of the swan.
+
+[17] By such a death as that alluded to, she earns the title of Sati,
+the "excellent."
+
+[18] The common Indian crane; a graceful white bird, seen everywhere in
+the interior of Hindoostan.
+
+[19] A man of military caste.
+
+[20] Large branching horns which reach backward and rub upon his
+shoulders.
+
+
+
+
+PEACE
+
+
+When the time came for resuming instruction, the King's sons said to
+Vishnu-Sarman, "Master, we have heard of War, we would now learn
+somewhat of the treaties which follow war." "It is well asked," replied
+the Sage; "listen therefore to 'Peace,' which hath this commencement--
+
+    'When those great Kings their weary war did cease,
+    The Vulture and the Goose concluded Peace.'
+
+'How came that?' asked the Princes.
+
+Vishnu-Sarman related:--
+
+
+THE TREATY BETWEEN THE PEACOCKS AND THE SWANS
+
+"So soon as King Jewel-plume had retreated, the first care of King
+Silver-sides was the discovery of the treason that had cost him the
+fort.
+
+'Goose,' he said to his Minister, 'who put the fire to our citadel,
+think you? Was it an enemy or an inmate?'
+
+'Sire,' replied the Goose, 'Night-cloud and his followers are nowhere to
+be seen--it must needs be his work.'
+
+'It must needs be,' sighed the King, after a pause; 'but what
+ill-fortune!'
+
+'If it please your Majesty, no,' replied the Minister; 'it is written--
+
+    "'Tis the fool who, meeting trouble, straightway destiny reviles;
+    Knowing not his own misdoing brought his own mischance the whiles."
+
+You have forgotten the saying--
+
+    'Who listens not, when true friends counsel well,
+    Must fall, as once the foolish Tortoise fell.'
+
+'I never heard it,' said the King. 'How was that?' The Goose related--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE TORTOISE AND THE GEESE
+
+"There is a pool in South Behar called the 'Pool of the Blue Lotus,' and
+two Geese had for a long time lived there. They had a friend in the pool
+who was a Tortoise, and he was known as 'Shelly-neck,' It chanced one
+evening that the Tortoise overheard some fishermen talking by the water.
+'We will stop here to-night,' they said, 'and in the morning we will
+catch the fish, the tortoises, and such like.' Extremely alarmed at
+this, the Tortoise repaired to his friends the Geese, and reported the
+conversation.
+
+'What ever am I to do, Gossips?' he asked.
+
+'The first thing is to be assured of the danger,' said the Geese.
+
+'I am assured,' exclaimed the Tortoise; 'the first thing is to avoid it:
+don't you know?--
+
+    'Time-not-come' and 'Quick-at-peril,' these two fishes 'scaped the net;
+    'What-will-be-will-be,' he perished, by the fishermen beset.'
+
+'No,' said the Geese,' how was it?' Shelly-neck related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF FATE AND THE THREE FISHES
+
+"It was just such a pool as this, and on the arrival at it of just such
+men as these fishermen, that three fishes, who had heard their designs,
+held consultation as to what should be done.
+
+'I shall go to another water,' said "Time-not-come," and away he went.
+
+'Why should we leave unless obliged?' asked "Quick-at-peril." 'When the
+thing befalls I shall do the best I can--
+
+    'Who deals with bad dilemmas well, is wise.
+    The merchant's wife, with womanly device,
+    Kissed--and denied the kiss--under his eyes.'
+
+'How was that?' asked the other fish. Quick-at-peril related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE UNABASHED WIFE
+
+"There was a trader in Vikrama-poora, who had a very beautiful wife, and
+her name was Jewel-bright. The lady was as unfaithful as she was fair,
+and had chosen for her last lover one of the household servants. Ah!
+womankind!--
+
+    'Sex, that tires of being true,
+    Base and new is brave to you!
+    Like the jungle-cows ye range,
+    Changing food for sake of change.'
+
+Now it befell one day that as Jewel-bright was bestowing a kiss on the
+mouth of the servant, she was surprised by her husband; and seeing him
+she ran up hastily and said, 'My lord, here is an impudent varlet! he
+eats the camphor which I procured for you; I was actually smelling it on
+his lips as you entered.' The servant catching her meaning, affected
+offence. 'How can a man stay in a house where the mistress is always
+smelling one's lips for a little camphor?' he said; and thereat he was
+for going off, and was only constrained by the good man to stay, after
+much entreaty. 'Therefore,' said Quick-at-peril, 'I mean to abide here,
+and make the best I can of what befalls, as she did.'
+
+'Yes, yes,' said What-will-be-will-be, 'we all know
+
+    'That which will not be will not be, and what is to be will be:--
+    Why not drink this easy physic, antidote of misery?'
+
+'When the morning came, the net was thrown, and both the fishes
+inclosed. Quick-at-peril, on being drawn up, feigned himself dead; and
+upon the fisherman's laying him aside, he leaped off again into the
+water. As to What-will-be-will-be, he was seized and forthwith
+dispatched.--And that,' concluded the Tortoise, 'is why I wish to devise
+some plan of escape.'
+
+'It might be compassed if you could go elsewhere,' said the Geese, 'but
+how can you get across the ground?'
+
+'Can't you take me through the air?' asked the Tortoise.
+
+'Impossible!' said the Geese.
+
+'Not at all!' replied the Tortoise; 'you shall hold a stick across in
+your bills, and I will hang on to it by my mouth--and thus you can
+readily convey me,'
+
+'It is feasible,' observed the Geese, 'but remember,
+
+    'Wise men their plans revolve, lest ill befall;
+    The Herons gained a friend, and so, lost all.'
+
+'How came that about?' asked the Tortoise. The Geese related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE HERONS AND THE MONGOOSE
+
+"Among the mountains of the north there is one named Eagle-cliff, and
+near it, upon a fig-tree, a flock of Herons had their residence. At the
+foot of the tree, in a hollow, there lived a serpent; and he was
+constantly devouring the nestlings of the Herons. Loud were the
+complaints of the parent birds, until an old Heron thus advised
+them:--'You should bring some fishes from the pool, and lay them one by
+one in a line from the hole of yonder Mongoose to the hollow where the
+Serpent lives. The Mongoose will find him when it comes after the fish,
+and if it finds him it will kill him.' The advice seemed good, and was
+acted upon; but in killing the Snake the Mongoose overheard the cry of
+the young Herons; and climbing the tree daily, he devoured all that the
+Snake had left. Therefore,' concluded the Geese, 'do we bid you look
+well into your plan: if you should open your mouth, for instance, as we
+carry you, you will drop and be killed.'
+
+'Am I a fool,' cried the Tortoise, 'to open my mouth? Not I! Come now,
+convey me!'
+
+'Thereupon the Geese took up the stick; the Tortoise held fast with his
+mouth, and away they flew. The country people, observing this strange
+sight, ran after.
+
+'Ho! ho!' cried one, 'look at the flying Tortoise!'
+
+'When he falls we'll cook and eat him here,' said another.
+
+'No; let us take him home for dinner!' cried a third.
+
+'We can light a fire by the pool, and eat him,' said the first.
+
+'The Tortoise heard these unkind remarks in a towering passion. 'Eat
+me!--eat ashes!' he exclaimed, opening his mouth--and down he fell
+directly, and was caught by the countrymen.--Said I not well,' concluded
+the Goose-Minister, 'that to scorn counsel is to seek destruction?'
+
+'You have well said,' replied King Silver-sides, disconsolately.
+
+'Yes, your Majesty,' interposed the Crane, who was just returned, 'if
+the Fort had been cleared, Night-cloud could not have fired it, as he
+did, by the Vulture's instigation.'
+
+'We see it all,' sighed the King, 'but too late!'
+
+    'Whoso trusts, for service rendered, or fair words, an enemy,
+    Wakes from folly like one falling in his slumber from a tree.'
+
+'I witnessed Night-cloud's reception,' continued the Crane. 'King
+Jewel-plume showed him great favor, and was for anointing him Rajah of
+Camphor-island.'
+
+'Hear you that, my Liege?' asked the Goose.
+
+'Go on; I hear!' said Silver-sides.
+
+'To that the Vulture demurred,' continued the Crane:--'"favor to low
+persons," he said, "was like writing on the sea-sand. To set the
+base-born in the seat of the great was long ago declared impolitic--
+
+    'Give mean men power, and give thy throat to the knife;
+    The Mouse, made Tiger, sought his master's life.'
+
+'How was that?' asked King Jewel-plume. The Vulture related--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE RECLUSE AND THE MOUSE
+
+"In the forest of the Sage Gautama there dwelt a Recluse named
+Mighty-at-Prayer. Once, as he sat at his frugal meal, a young mouse
+dropped beside him from the beak of a crow, and he took it up and fed it
+tenderly with rice grains. Some time after the Saint observed a cat
+pursuing his dependent to devour it, whereupon he changed the mouse into
+a stout cat. The cat was a great deal harassed by dogs, upon which the
+Saint again transformed it into a dog. The dog was always in danger of
+the tigers, and his protector at last gave him the form of a
+tiger--considering him all this while, and treating him withal, like
+nothing but a mouse. The country-folk passing by would say, 'That a
+tiger! not he; it is a mouse the Saint has transformed.' And the mouse
+being vexed at this, reflected, 'So long as the Master lives, this
+shameful story of my origin will survive!' With this thought he was
+about to take the Saint's life, when he, who knew his purpose, turned
+the ungrateful beast by a word to his original shape. Besides, your
+Majesty," continued the Vulture, "it may not be so easy to take in
+Camphor-island--
+
+    'Many fine fishes did the old Crane kill,
+    But the Crab matched him, maugre all his bill.'
+
+'How came that to pass?' asked Jewel-plume.
+
+'The Vulture related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE CRANE AND THE CRAB
+
+"There was an old Crane at a mere called Lily-water, in Malwa, who stood
+one day in the shallows with a most dejected look and drooping bill. A
+Crab observed him and called out, 'Friend Crane! have you given up
+eating, that you stand there all day?' 'Nay, sir!' replied the old
+Crane; 'I love my dish of fish, but I have heard the fishermen say that
+they mean to capture every one that swims in this water; and as that
+destroys my hope of subsistence, I am resigning myself to death.' All
+this the fishes overheard. 'In this matter certainly,' they said, 'his
+interest is ours; we ought to consult him; for it is written--
+
+    'Fellow be with kindly foemen, rather than with friends unkind;
+    Friend and foeman are distinguished not by title but by mind.'
+
+Thereupon they repaired to him: 'Good Crane,' they said, 'what course is
+there for safety?'
+
+'Course of safety there is,' replied the Crane, 'to go elsewhere; and I
+will carry you one by one to another pool, if you please.'
+
+'Do so,' said the trembling fishes.
+
+"The Crane accordingly took one after another, and having eaten them
+returned with the report that he had safely deposited each. Last of all,
+the Crab requested to be taken; and the Crane, coveting his tender
+flesh, took him up with great apparent respect. On arriving at the spot,
+which was covered with fish-bones, the Crab perceived the fate reserved
+for him; and turning round he fastened upon the Crane's throat and tore
+it so that he perished.'
+
+'Well, but,' said King Jewel-plume, 'we can make Night-cloud viceroy
+here, to send over to Vindhya all the productions of Camphor-isle!'
+
+'Then the Vulture Far-sight laughed a low laugh and said--
+
+    'Who, ere he makes a gain has spent it,
+    Like the pot-breaker will repent it.'
+
+'What was that?' asked the King. Far-sight related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE BRAHMAN AND THE PANS
+
+"There was a Brahman in the city of Vana, whose name was Deva Sarman. At
+the equinoctial feast of the Dussera, he obtained for his duxina-gift a
+dish of flour, which he took into a potter's shed; and there lay down in
+the shade among the pots, staff in hand. As he thus reclined he began to
+meditate, 'I can sell this meal for ten cowrie-shells, and with them I
+can purchase some of these pots and sell them at an advance. With all
+that money I shall invest in betel-nuts and body-cloths and make a new
+profit by their sale; and so go on trafficking till I get a lakh of
+rupees--what's to prevent me? Then I shall marry four wives--and one at
+least will be beautiful and young, and she shall be my favorite. Of
+course the others will be jealous; but if they quarrel, and talk, and
+trouble me I will belabor them like this--and this'--and therewith he
+flourished his staff to such a purpose as to smash his meal-dish and
+break several of the potter's jars. The potter, rushing out, took him by
+the throat, and turned him off; and so ended his speculations. I smiled,
+my Liege,' concluded the Vulture, 'at your precipitancy, thinking of
+that story.'
+
+'Tell me, then, my Father, what should be done,' said the King.
+
+'Tell me first, your Majesty, what took the fortress: strength or
+stratagem?'
+
+'It was a device of yours,' said the King.
+
+'It is well,' replied the Minister, 'and my counsel now is to return
+before the rainy season, while we can return; and to make peace. We have
+won renown and taken the enemy's stronghold; let it suffice. I speak as
+a faithful adviser; and it is written--
+
+    'Whoso setting duty highest, speaks at need unwelcome things,
+    Disregarding fear and favor, such a one may succor kings.'
+
+Oh, my Liege! war is uncertain! Nay, it may ruin victor and
+vanquished--
+
+    'Sunda the strong, and giant Upasunda,
+    Contending, like the lightning and the thunder,
+    Slew each the other. Learn, the while you wonder.'
+
+'Tell me that,' said the King of the Peacocks.
+
+'The Vulture related--
+
+
+THE DUEL OF THE GIANTS
+
+"Long ago, my Liege, there were two Daityas named Sunda and Upasunda,
+the which with penance and fasting worshipped that God who wears the
+moon for his forehead-jewel; desiring to win his favor, and thereby the
+lordship of the Three Worlds. At last the God, propitiated by their
+devotion, spake thus unto them:--
+
+'I grant a boon unto ye--choose what it shall be.'
+
+'And they, who would have asked dominion, were suddenly minded of
+Saraswati--who reigns over the hearts and thoughts of men--to seek a
+forbidden thing.
+
+'If,' said they, 'we have found favor, let the Divinity give us his own
+cherished Parvati, the Queen of Heaven!'
+
+'Terribly incensed was the God, but his word had passed, and the boon
+must be granted; and Parvati the Divine was delivered up to them. Then
+those two world-breakers, sick at heart, sin-blinded, and afire with the
+glorious beauty of the Queen of Life--began to dispute, saying one to
+another: 'Mine is she! mine is she!' At the last they called for an
+umpire, and the God himself appeared before them as a venerable Brahman.
+
+'Master,' said they, 'tell us whose she is, for we both won her by our
+might.'
+
+'Then spake that Brahman:--
+
+    'Brahmans for their lore have honor; Kshattriyas for their bravery;
+    Vaisyas for their hard-earned treasure; Sudras for humility,'
+
+Ye are Kshattriyas--and it is yours to fight; settle, then, this
+question by the sword.'
+
+'Thereupon they agreed that he spoke wisely, and drew and battled; and
+being of equal force, they fell at the same moment by an exchange of
+blows. Good my Lord,' concluded the Minister, 'peace is a better thing
+than war,'
+
+'But why not say so before?' asked Jewel-plume.
+
+'I said it at the first,' replied the Minister. 'I knew King
+Silver-sides for a just King, upon whom it was ill to wage battle. How
+say the Scriptures?--
+
+    'Seven foemen of all foemen, very hard to vanquish be:
+    The Truth-teller, the Just-dweller, and the man from passion free,
+    Subtle, self-sustained, and counting frequent well-won victories,
+    And the man of many kinsmen--keep the peace with such as these.'
+
+The Swan-king has friends and kinsmen, my Liege:--
+
+    'And the man with many kinsmen answers with them all attacks;
+    As the bambu, in the bambus safely sheltered, scorns the axe.'
+
+'My counsel then is that peace be concluded with him,' said the Vulture.
+
+'All this King Silver-sides and his Minister the Goose heard attentively
+from the Crane.
+
+'Go again!' said the Goose to Long-bill, 'and bring us news of how the
+Vulture's advice is received.'
+
+'Minister!' began the King, upon the departure of the Crane, 'tell me as
+to this peace, who are they with whom it should not be concluded?'
+
+'They be twenty, namely----'
+
+'Tarry not to name them,' said the King; 'and what be the qualities of a
+good ally?'
+
+'Such should be learned in Peace and War,' replied the Goose, 'in
+marching and pitching, and seasonably placing an army in the field; for
+it is said--
+
+    'He who sets his battle wisely, conquers the unwary foe;
+    As the Owl, awaiting night-time, slew the overweening Crow.'
+
+Counsel, my Liege, is quintuple--Commencing, providing, dividing,
+repelling, and completing,'
+
+'Good!' said the King.
+
+'Power is triple,' continued the Goose, 'being of Kings, of counsels,
+and of constant effort.'
+
+'It is so!' said the King.
+
+'And expedients, my Liege,' continued the Goose, 'are quadruple, and
+consist of conciliation, of gifts, of strife-stirring, and of force of
+arms; for thus it is written--
+
+    'Whoso hath the gift of giving wisely, equitably, well;
+    Whoso, learning all men's secrets, unto none his own will tell;
+    Whoso, ever cold and courtly, utters nothing that offends,
+    Such a one may rule his fellows unto Earth's extremest ends.'
+
+'Then King Jewel-plume would be a good ally,' observed the Swan-king.
+
+'Doubtless!' said the Goose, 'but elated with victory, he will hardly
+listen to the Vulture's counsel; we must make him do it.'
+
+'How?' asked the King.
+
+'We will cause our dependent, the King of Ceylon, Strong-bill the Stork,
+to raise an insurrection in Jambudwipa.'
+
+'It is well-conceived,' said the King. And forthwith a Crane, named
+Pied-body, was dismissed with a secret message to that Rajah.
+
+'In course of time the first Crane, who had been sent as a spy, came
+back, and made his report. He related that the Vulture had advised his
+Sovereign to summon Night-cloud, the Crow, and learn from him regarding
+King Silver-sides' intentions. Night-cloud attended accordingly.
+
+'Crow!' asked King Jewel-plume, 'what sort of a Monarch is the Rajah
+Silver-sides?'
+
+'Truthful, may it please you,' replied the Crow; 'and therewithal noble
+as Yudisthira himself.'
+
+'And his Minister, the Goose?'
+
+'Is a Minister unrivalled, my Liege,' said the Crow-king.
+
+'But how then didst thou so easily deceive them?'
+
+'Ah! your Majesty,' said the Crow, 'there was little credit in that. Is
+it not said?--
+
+    'Cheating them that truly trust you, 'tis a clumsy villainy!
+    Any knave may slay the child who climbs and slumbers on his knee.'
+
+Besides, the Minister detected me immediately. It was the King whose
+innate goodness forbade him to suspect evil in another:--
+
+    'Believe a knave, thyself scorning a lie,
+    And rue it, like the Brahman, by and by.'
+
+'What Brahman was that?' asked the King. Night-cloud replied:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE BRAHMAN AND THE GOAT
+
+"A Brahman that lived in the forest of Gautama, your Majesty. He had
+purveyed a goat to make pooja, and was returning home with it on life
+shoulder when he was descried by three knaves. 'If we could but obtain
+that goat,' said they, 'it would be a rare trick'; and they ran on, and
+seated themselves at the foot of three different trees upon the
+Brahman's road. Presently he came up with the first of them, who
+addressed him thus: 'Master! why do you carry that dog on your
+shoulder?' 'Dog!' said the Brahman, 'it is a goat for sacrifice!' With
+that he went on a coss, and came to the second knave; who called
+out--'What doest thou with that dog, Master?' The Brahman laid his goat
+upon the ground, looked it all over, took it up again upon his back, and
+walked on with his mind in a whirl; for--
+
+    'The good think evil slowly, and they pay
+    A price for faith--as witness "Crop-ear" may.'
+
+'Who was Crop-ear?' asked the King of the Peacocks.
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE CAMEL, THE LION, AND HIS COURT
+
+"A Camel, may it please you," replied Night-cloud, "who strayed away
+from a kafila, and wandered into the forest. A Lion, named
+'Fierce-fangs,' lived in that forest; and his three courtiers, a Tiger,
+a Jackal, and a Crow, met the Camel, and conducted him to their King.
+His account of himself was satisfactory, and the Lion took him into his
+service under the name of Crop-ear. Now it happened that the rainy
+season was very severe, and the Lion became indisposed, so that there
+was much difficulty in obtaining food for the Court. The courtiers
+resolved accordingly to prevail on the Lion to kill the Camel; 'for what
+interest have we,' they said, 'in this browser of thistles?'
+
+'What, indeed!' observed the Tiger; 'but will the Rajah kill him after
+his promise of protection, think you?'
+
+'Being famished he will,' said the Crow. 'Know you not?--
+
+    'Hunger hears not, cares not, spares not; no boon of the starving beg;
+    When the snake is pinched with craving, verily she eats her egg.'
+
+Accordingly they repaired to the Lion.
+
+'Hast brought me food, fellow?' growled the Rajah.
+
+'None, may it please you,' said the Crow.
+
+'Must we starve, then?' asked his Majesty.
+
+'Not unless you reject the food before you, Sire,' rejoined the Crow.
+
+'Before me! how mean you?'
+
+'I mean,' replied the Crow (and he whispered it in the Lion's ear),
+'Crop-ear, the Camel!'
+
+'Now!' said the Lion, and he touched the ground, and afterwards both
+ears, as he spoke, 'I have given him my pledge for his safety, and how
+should I slay him?'
+
+'Nay, Sire! I said not slay,' replied the Crow; 'it may be that he will
+offer himself for food. To that your Majesty would not object?'
+
+'I am parlous hungry,' muttered the Lion.
+
+'Then the Crow went to find the Camel, and, bringing all together before
+the King under some pretence or other, he thus addressed him:--
+
+'Sire! our pains are come to nothing: we can get no food, and we behold
+our Lord falling away,
+
+    'Of the Tree of State the root
+    Kings are--feed what brings the fruit.'
+
+Take me, therefore, your Majesty, and break your fast upon me."
+
+'Good Crow,' said the Lion, 'I had liefer die than do so.'
+
+'Will your Majesty deign to make a repast upon me?' asked the Jackal.
+
+'On no account!' replied the Lion.
+
+'Condescend, my Lord,' said the Tiger, 'to appease your hunger with my
+poor flesh.'
+
+'Impossible!' responded the Lion.
+
+'Thereupon Crop-ear, not to be behind in what seemed safe, made offer of
+his own carcase, which was accepted before he had finished; the Tiger
+instantly tearing his flank open, and all the rest at once devouring
+him.
+
+'The Brahman,' continued Night-cloud, 'suspected nothing more than did
+the Camel; and when the third knave had broken his jest upon him for
+bearing a dog, he threw it down, washed himself clean of the
+contamination, and went home; while the knaves secured and cooked his
+goat.'
+
+'But, Night-cloud,' asked the Rajah, 'how couldst thou abide so long
+among enemies, and conciliate them?'
+
+'It is easy to play the courtier for a purpose,' said Night-cloud--
+
+    'Courtesy may cover malice; on their heads the woodmen bring,
+    Meaning all the while to burn them, logs and fagots--oh, my King!
+    And the strong and subtle river, rippling at the cedar's foot,
+    While it seems to lave and kiss it, undermines the hanging root.'
+
+Indeed, it has been said--
+
+    'A wise man for an object's sake
+    His foe upon his back will take,
+    As with the Frogs once did the Snake.'
+
+'How was that?' asked the Peacock-King. The Crow related:--
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE FROGS AND THE OLD SERPENT
+
+"In a deserted garden there once lived a Serpent, 'Slow-coil' by name;
+who had reached an age when he was no longer able to obtain his own
+food. Lying listlessly by the edge of a pond, he was descried by a
+certain Frog, and interrogated--
+
+'Have you given up caring for food, Serpent?'
+
+'Leave me, kindly Sir,' replied the subtle reptile; 'the griefs of a
+miserable wretch like me cannot interest your lofty mind.'
+
+'Let me at least hear them,' said the Frog, somewhat flattered.
+
+'You must know, then, gracious Sir,' began the Serpent, 'that it is now
+twenty years since here, in Brahmapoora, I bit the son of Kaundinya, a
+holy Brahman; of which cruel bite he died. Seeing his boy dead,
+Kaundinya abandoned himself to despair, and grovelled in his distress
+upon the ground. Thereat came all his kinsmen, citizens of Brahmapoora,
+and sat down with him, as the manner is--
+
+    'He who shares his brother's portion, be he beggar, be he lord,
+    Comes as truly, comes as duly, to the battle as the board;
+
+    Stands before the King to succor, follows to the pile to sigh;
+    He is friend and he is kinsman--less would make the name a lie.'
+
+Then spoke a twice-passed Brahman,[21] Kapila by name, 'O Kaundinya!
+thou dost forget thyself to lament thus. Hear what is written--
+
+    'Weep not! Life the hired nurse is, holding us a little space;
+    Death, the mother who doth take us back into our proper place.'
+
+    'Gone, with all their gauds and glories: gone, like peasants, are the
+            Kings,
+    Whereunto the world is witness, whereof all her record rings.'
+
+What, indeed, my friend, is this mortal frame, that we should set store
+by it?--
+
+    'For the body, daily wasting, is not seen to waste away,
+    Until wasted, as in water set a jar of unbaked clay.'
+
+    'And day after day man goeth near and nearer to his fate,
+    As step after step the victim thither where its slayers wait.'
+
+Friends and kinsmen--they must all be surrendered! Is it not said--
+
+    'Like as a plank of drift-wood
+      Tossed on the watery main,
+    Another plank encountered,
+      Meets--touches--parts again;
+    So tossed, and drifting ever,
+      On life's unresting sea,
+    Men meet, and greet, and sever,
+      Parting eternally.'
+
+Thou knowest these things, let thy wisdom chide thy sorrow, saying--
+
+    'Halt, traveller! rest i' the shade: then up and leave it!
+    Stay, Soul! take fill of love; nor losing, grieve it!'
+
+But in sooth a wise man would better avoid love; for--
+
+    'Each beloved object born
+    Sets within the heart a thorn,
+    Bleeding, when they be uptorn.'
+
+And it is well asked--
+
+    'When thine own house, this rotting frame, doth wither,
+    Thinking another's lasting--goest thou thither?'
+
+What will be, will be; and who knows not--
+
+    'Meeting makes a parting sure,
+    Life is nothing but death's door.'
+
+For truly--
+
+    'As the downward-running rivers never turn and never stay,
+    So the days and nights stream deathward, bearing human lives away.'
+
+And though it be objected that--
+
+    'Bethinking him of darkness grim, and death's unshunned pain,
+    A man strong-souled relaxes hold, like leather soaked in rain.'
+
+Yet is this none the less assured, that--
+
+    'From the day, the hour, the minute,
+      Each life quickens in the womb;
+    Thence its march, no falter in it,
+      Goes straight forward to the tomb.'
+
+Form, good friend, a true idea of mundane matters; and bethink thee that
+regret is after all but an illusion, an ignorance--
+
+    'An 'twere not so, would sorrow cease with years?
+    Wisdom sees aright what want of knowledge fears.'
+
+'Kaundinya listened to all this with the air of a dreamer. Then rising
+up he said, 'Enough! the house is hell to me--I will betake me to the
+forest.'
+
+'Will that stead you?' asked Kapila; 'nay--
+
+    'Seek not the wild, sad heart! thy passions haunt it;
+    Play hermit in thine house with heart undaunted;
+    A governed heart, thinking no thought but good,
+    Makes crowded houses holy solitude.'
+
+To be master of one's self--to eat only to prolong life--to yield to
+love no more than may suffice to perpetuate a family--and never to speak
+but in the cause of truth, this,' said Kapila, 'is armor against grief.
+What wouldst thou with a hermit's life--prayer and purification from
+sorrow and sin in holy streams? Hear this!--
+
+    'Away with those that preach to us the washing off of sin--
+    Thine own self is the stream for thee to make ablutions in:
+    In self-restraint it rises pure--flows clear in tide of truth,
+    By widening banks of wisdom, in waves of peace and ruth.
+    Bathe there, thou son of Pandu! with reverence and rite,
+    For never yet was water wet could wash the spirit white.'
+
+Resign thyself to loss. Pain exists absolutely. Ease, what is it but a
+minute's alleviation?'
+
+'It is nothing else,' said Kaundinya: 'I will resign myself!'
+Thereupon,' the Serpent continued, 'he cursed me with the curse that I
+should be a carrier of frogs, and so retired--and here remain I to do
+according to the Brahman's malediction.'
+
+'The Frog, hearing all this, went and reported it to Web-foot the
+Frog-King, who shortly came himself for an excursion on the Serpent. He
+was carried delightfully, and constantly employed the conveyance. But
+one day observing the Serpent to be sluggish, he asked the reason.
+
+'May it please you,' explained the Serpent, 'your slave has nothing to
+eat.'
+
+'Eat a few of my frogs,' said the King. 'I give you leave.'
+
+'I thank your Majesty!' answered the Serpent, and forthwith he began to
+eat the frogs, until the pond becoming clear, he finished with their
+monarch himself. 'I also,' said Night-cloud, 'stooped to conquer, but
+King Silver-sides is a good King, and I would your Majesty were at peace
+with him.'
+
+'Peace!' cried King Jewel-plume, 'shall I make peace with my vassal! I
+have vanquished him--let him serve me!'
+
+"At this moment the Parrot came in. 'Sire!' said he, breathlessly,' the
+Stork Strong-bill, Rajah of Ceylon, has raised the standard of revolt in
+Jambudwipa, and claims the country.'
+
+'What! what!' cried the King in a fury.
+
+'Excellent good, Goose!' muttered the Minister. 'This is thy work!'
+
+'Bid him but await me!' exclaimed the King, 'and I will tear him up like
+a tree!'
+
+'Ah, Sire,' said the Minister--
+
+    'Thunder for nothing, like December's cloud,
+    Passes unmarked: strike hard, but speak not loud.'
+
+We cannot march without making peace first; our rear will be attacked.'
+
+'Must it be so?' asked the King.
+
+'My Liege, it must,' replied the Vulture.
+
+'Make a peace then,' said the King, 'and make an end.'
+
+'It is well,' observed the Minister, and set out for the Court of the
+King Silver-sides. While he was yet coming, the Crane announced his
+approach.
+
+'Ah!' said the Swan-King, 'this will be another designing spy from the
+enemy.'
+
+'Misdoubt him not!' answered the Goose, smiling, 'it is the Vulture
+Far-sight, a spirit beyond suspicion. Would your Majesty be as the Swan
+that took the stars reflected in the pool for lily-buds, and being
+deceived, would eat no lily-shoots by day, thinking them stars?'
+
+'Not so! but treachery breeds mistrust,' replied the Rajah; is it not
+written--
+
+    'Minds deceived by evil natures, from the good their faith withhold;
+    When hot conjee once has burned them, children blow upon the cold.'
+
+'It is so written, my Liege,' said the Minister. 'But this one may be
+trusted. Let him be received with compliments and a gift.'
+
+'Accordingly the Vulture was conducted, with the most profound respect,
+from the fort to the King's audience-hall, where a throne was placed for
+him.
+
+'Minister,' said the Goose, 'consider us and ours at thy disposal.'
+
+'So consider us,' assented the Swan-King.
+
+'I thank you,' said Far-sight; 'but--
+
+    'With a gift the miser meet;
+    Proud men by obeisance greet;
+    Women's silly fancies soothe;
+    Give wise men their due--the truth.'
+
+'I am come to conclude a peace, not to claim your kingdom. By what mode
+shall we conclude it?'
+
+'How many modes be there?' asked King Silver-sides.
+
+'Sixteen,' replied the Vulture.
+
+'Are the alliances numbered therein?' asked the King.
+
+'No! these be four,' answered the Vulture, 'namely--of mutual help--of
+friendship--of blood--and of sacrifice.'
+
+'You are a great diplomatist!' said the King. 'Advise us which to
+choose!'
+
+'There is no Peace like the Golden "Sangata," which is made between good
+men, based on friendly feeling, and preceded by the Oath of Truth,'
+replied the Vulture.
+
+'Let us make that Peace!' said the Goose. Far-sight accordingly, with
+fresh presents of robes and jewels, accompanied the Goose to the camp of
+the Peacock-King. The Rajah, Jewel-plume, gave the Goose a gracious
+audience, accepted his terms of Peace, and sent him back to the
+Swan-King, loaded with gifts and kind speeches. The revolt in Jambudwipa
+was suppressed, and the Peacock-King retired to his own kingdom.
+
+"And now," said Vishnu-Sarman, "I have told your Royal Highnesses all.
+Is there anything remaining to be told?"
+
+"Reverend Sir!" replied the Princes, "there is nothing. Thanks to you,
+we have heard and comprehended the perfect cycle of kingly duty, and are
+content."
+
+"There remains but this, then," said their Preceptor:--
+
+      'Peace and Plenty, all fair things,
+      Grace the realm where ye reign Kings;
+      Grief and loss come not anigh you,
+      Glory guide and magnify you;
+      Wisdom keep your statesmen still
+      Clinging fast, in good or ill,
+      Clinging, like a bride new-wed,
+      Unto lips, and breast, and head:
+    And day by day, that these fair things befall,
+    The Lady Lukshmi give her grace to all.'
+
+
+[21] A young Brahman, being invested with the sacred thread, and having
+concluded his studies, becomes of the second order: a householder.
+
+
+
+
+NALA AND DAMAYANTI
+
+[_Selected from the "Mahabharata" Translation by Sir Edwin Arnold_]
+
+
+INTRODUCTION
+
+
+The "Mahabharata" is the oldest epic in Sanscrit literature, and is
+sevenfold greater in bulk than the "Iliad" and "Odyssey" taken together.
+This remarkable poem contains almost all the history of ancient India,
+so far as it can be recovered, together with inexhaustible details of
+its political, social, and religious life--in fact, the antique Hindoo
+world stands epitomized in it. The Old Testament is not more interwoven
+with the Jewish race, nor the New Testament with the civilization of
+Christendom, nor even the Koran with the records and destinies of Islam,
+than is this great Sanscrit poem with the unchanging and teeming
+population of Hindostan. The stories, songs, and ballads, the
+genealogies, the nursery tales and religious discourses, the art, the
+learning, the philosophy, the creeds, the modes of thought, the very
+phrases and daily ideas of the Hindoo people are taken from this poem.
+Their children are named after its heroes; so are their cities, streets,
+and even cattle. It is the spiritual life of the Hindoo people. It is
+personified, worshipped, and cited as being something divine. To read,
+or even to listen, is to the devout Hindoo sufficiently meritorious to
+bring prosperity to the fireside in this world, and happiness in the
+world to come.
+
+The western world has as yet only received the "Mahabharata" in
+fragments--mere specimens, bearing to those vast treasures of Sanscrit
+literature such small proportion as cabinet samples of ore have to the
+riches of a mine. Such knowledge as we have of the great Indian epics is
+largely due to Sir William Jones, and the host of translators who
+followed him.
+
+In its present shape the "Mahabharata" contains some two hundred
+thousand verses. The style is forcible, often terse and nervous: the
+action is well sustained, and the whole effect produced is that of a
+poem written in commemoration of actual conflict between members of
+rival clans who lived somewhere southeast of the Punjab. In portrayal of
+character the Hindoo poem somewhat resembles its Grecian
+counterpart--the "Iliad"; the noble devotion and chivalric character of
+its chief hero, Arjuna, reminds us of Hector--and the wily, sinful
+Duryodhana, is a second Ulysses. The "Mahabharata" was probably begun in
+the third or fourth century B.C., and completed soon after the beginning
+of the Christian era.
+
+The "Bharata" war is a war between rival cousins of the house of
+Bharata, a race of heroes mentioned in the Rig-veda collection.
+Duryodhana deprives his cousin Yudhisthira of his throne by inducing him
+to squander his fortune, kingdom, family, and self--and then banishes
+Yudhisthira and the latter's four brothers for twelve years. The
+gambling was conducted in an unfair manner, and the cousins feel that
+their banishment was the result of treachery, although pretended to be
+mercy in lieu of death. When the twelve years are over they collect
+armies of sympathizers, and on the Sacred Plain of the Kurus (the Holy
+Land of India) the great war is fought out. The good prevails,
+Duryodhana is slain, and Yudhisthira recovers his kingdom. This story is
+told so graphically that the "Mahabharata" still has the charm that
+comes from plot and action, as well as that of poetic beauty.
+
+A concluding passage of this great poem says: "The reading of this
+'Mahabharata' destroys all sin and produces virtue, so much so that the
+pronunciation of a single shloka is sufficient to wipe away much guilt.
+It has bound human beings in a chain, of which one end is life and the
+other death. If a man reads the 'Mahabharata' and has faith in its
+doctrines, he is free from all sin and ascends to heaven after his
+death."
+
+The present selection is the episode of Nala and Damayanti. It is one of
+the most charming of the "Mahabharata" stories, and its Oriental flavor
+and delicacy have been well preserved by the translator, Sir Edwin
+Arnold.
+
+L.F.C.
+
+
+
+
+THE MAHABHARATA
+
+
+NALA AND DAMAYANTI
+
+Part I
+
+
+    A prince there was, named Nala, Virasen's noble breed,
+    Goodly to see, and virtuous; a tamer of the steed;
+    As Indra 'midst the gods, so he of kings was kingliest one,
+    Sovereign of men, and splendid as the golden, glittering sun;
+    Pure, knowing scripture, gallant; ruling nobly Nishadh's lands;
+    Dice-loving, but a proud, true chief of her embattled bands;
+    By lovely ladies lauded; free, trained in self-control;
+    A shield and bow; a Manu on earth; a royal soul!
+    And in Vidarbha's city the Raja Bhima dwelled;
+    Save offspring, from his perfect bliss no blessing was withheld;
+    For offspring, many a pious rite full patiently he wrought,
+    Till Damana the Brahman unto his house was brought.
+    Him Bhima, ever reverent, did courteously entreat,
+    Within the Queen's pavilion led him, to rest and eat;
+    Whereby that sage, grown grateful, gave her--for joy of joys--
+    A girl, the gem of girlhood, and three brave lusty boys--
+    Damana, Dama, Danta, their names:--Damayanti she;
+    No daughter more delightful, no sons could goodlier be.
+    Stately and bright and beautiful did Damayanti grow;
+    No land there was which did not the Slender-waisted know;
+    A hundred slaves her fair form decked with robe and ornament--
+    Like Sachi's self to serve her a hundred virgins bent;
+    And 'midst them Bhima's daughter, in peerless glory dight,
+    Gleamed as the lightning glitters against the murk of night;
+    Having the eyes of Lakshmi, long-lidded, black, and bright--
+    Nay--never Gods, nor Yakshas, nor mortal men among
+    Was one so rare and radiant e'er seen, or sued, or sung
+    As she, the heart-consuming, in heaven itself desired.
+    And Nala, too, of princes the Tiger-Prince, admired
+    Like Kama was; in beauty an embodied lord of love:
+    And ofttimes Nala praised they all other chiefs above
+    In Damayanti's hearing; and oftentimes to him,
+    With worship and with wonder, her beauty they would limn;
+    So that, unmet, unknowing, unseen, in each for each
+    A tender thought of longing grew up from seed of speech;
+    And love (thou son of Kunti!) those gentle hearts did reach.
+      Thus Nala--hardly bearing in his heart
+    Such longing--wandered in his palace-woods,
+    And marked some water-birds, with painted plumes,
+    Disporting. One, by stealthy steps, he seized;
+    But the sky-traveller spake to Nala this:--
+    "Kill me not, Prince, and I will serve thee well.
+    For I, in Damayanti's ear, will say
+    Such good of Nishadh's lord, that nevermore
+    Shall thought of man possess her, save of thee."
+      Thereat the Prince gladly gave liberty
+    To his soft prisoner, and all the swans
+    Flew, clanging, to Vidarbha--a bright flock--
+    Straight to Vidarbha, where the Princess walked;
+    And there, beneath her eyes, those winged ones
+    Lighted. She saw them sail to earth, and marked--
+    Sitting amid her maids--their graceful forms;
+    While those for wantonness 'gan chase the swans,
+    Which fluttered this and that way through the grove:
+    Each girl with tripping feet her bird pursued,
+    And Damayanti, laughing, followed hers;
+    Till--at the point to grasp--the flying prey
+    Deftly eluding touch, spake as men speak,
+    Addressing Bhima's daughter:--
+                                  "Lady dear!
+    Loveliest Damayanti! Nala dwells
+    In near Nishadha: oh, a noble Prince,
+    Not to be matched of men; an Aswin he,
+    For goodliness. Incomparable maid!
+    Wert thou but wife to that surpassing chief,
+    Rich would the fruit grow from such lordly birth,
+    Such peerless beauty. Slender-waisted one,
+    Gods, men, and Gandharvas have we beheld,
+    But never none among them like to him.
+    As thou art pearl of princesses, so he
+    Is crown of princes; happy would it fall,
+    One such perfection should another wed."
+      And when she heard that bird (O King of men!)
+    The Princess answered: "Go, dear swan, and tell
+    This same to Nala;" and the egg-born said,
+    "I go"--and flew; and told the Prince of all.
+      But Damayanti, having heard the bird,
+    Lived fancy-free no more; by Nala's side
+    Her soul dwelt, while she sat at home distraught,
+    Mournful and wan, sighing the hours away,
+    With eyes upcast, and passion-laden looks;
+    So that, eftsoons, her limbs failed, and her mind--
+    With love o'erweighted--found no rest in sleep,
+    No grace in company, no joy at feasts.
+    Nor night nor day brought peace; always she heaved
+    Sigh upon sigh, till all her maidens knew--
+    By glance and mien and moan--how changed she was,
+    Her own sweet self no more. Then to the King
+    They told how Damayanti loved the Prince.
+    Which thing when Bhima from her maidens heard,
+    Deep pondering for his child what should be done,
+    And why the Princess was beside herself,
+    That lord of lands perceived his daughter grown,
+    And knew that for her high Swayamvara
+    The time was come.
+                       So, to the Rajas all
+    The King sent word: "Ye Lords of Earth, attend
+    Of Damayanti the Swayamvara."
+    And when these learned of her Swayamvara,
+    Obeying Bhima, to his court they thronged--
+    Elephants, horses, cars--over the land
+    In full files wending, bearing flags and wreaths
+    Of countless hues, with gallant companies
+    Of fighting men. And those high-hearted chiefs
+    The strong-armed King welcomed with worship fair,
+    As fitted each, and led them to their seats.
+      Now at that hour there passed towards Indra's heaven,
+    Thither from earth ascending, those twain saints--
+    The wise, the pure, the mighty-minded ones,
+    The self-restrained--Narad and Parvata.
+    The mansion of the Sovereign of the Gods
+    In honor entered they; and he, the Lord
+    Of Clouds, dread Indra, softly them salutes,
+    Inquiring of their weal, and of the world
+    Wherethrough their name was famous, how it fares.
+      Then Narad said: "Well is it, Lord of Gods,
+    With us, and with our world; and well with those
+    Who rule the peoples, O thou King in Heaven!"
+      But He that slew the Demons spake again:--
+    "The princes of the earth, just-minded, brave,
+    Those who, in battle fearing not to fall,
+    See death on the descending blade, and charge
+    Full front against it, turning not their face--
+    Theirs is this realm eternal, as to me
+    The cow of plenty, Kamadhuk, belongs.
+    Where be my Kshatriya warriors? Wherefore now
+    See I none coming of those slaughtered lords,
+    Chiefs of mankind, our always honored guests?"
+      And unto Indra Narad gave reply:--
+    "King of the Air! no wars are waged below;
+    None fall in fight, to enter here. The Lord
+    Of high Vidarbha hath a daughter, famed
+    For loveliness beyond all earthly maids,
+    The Princess Damayanti, far-renowned.
+    Of her, dread Sakra! the Swayamvara
+    Shall soon befall, and thither now repair
+    The kings and princes of all lands, to woo--
+    Each for himself--this pearl of womanhood.
+    For oh, thou Slayer of the Demons, all
+    Desire the maid."
+                     Drew round, while Narad spake,
+    The Masters, th'Immortals, pressing in
+    With Agni and the Greatest, near the throne,
+    To listen to the speech of Narada;
+    Whom having heard, all cried delightedly,
+    "We, too, will go." Thereupon those high gods,
+    With chariots, and with heavenly retinues,
+    Sped to Vidarbha, where the kings were met.
+    And Nala, knowing of this kingly tryst,
+    Went thither joyous, heart-full with the thought
+    Of Damayanti.
+                  Thus it chanced the gods
+    Beheld the Prince wending along his road,
+    Goodly of mien, as is the Lord of Love.
+    The world's Protectors saw him, like a sun
+    For splendor; and, in very wonder, paused
+    Some time irresolute, so fair he was;
+    Then in mid-sky their golden chariots stayed,
+    And through the clouds descending called to him:--
+    "Abo! Nala of Nishadha! Noblest Prince,
+    Be herald for us; bear our message now."
+      "Yea!" Nala made reply, "this will I do"--
+    And then--palm unto palm in reverence pressed--
+    Asked: "Shining Ones, who are ye? Unto whom,
+    And what words bearing, will ye that I go?
+    Deign to instruct me what it is ye bid."
+    Thus the Prince spake, and Indra answered him:--
+    "Thou seest th'immortal gods. Indra am I,
+    And this is Agni, and the other here,
+    Varuna, Lord of Waters; and beyond,
+    Yama, the King of Death, who parteth souls
+    From mortal frames. To Damayanti go;
+    Tell our approach. Say this: 'The world's dread lords,
+    Wishful to see thee, come; desiring thee--
+    Indra, Varuna, Agni, Yama, all.
+    Choose of these powers to which thou wilt be given.'"
+    But Nala, hearing that, joined palms again,
+    And cried: "Ah, send me not, with one accord
+    For this, most mighty Gods! How should a man
+    Sue for another, being suitor too?
+    How bear such errand? Have compassion, Gods!"
+      Then spake they: "Yet thou saidst, 'This shall I do,'
+    Nishadha's Prince! and wilt thou do it not,
+    Forswearing faith? Nay, but depart, and soon!"
+      So bid, but lingering yet again, he said:--
+    "Well guarded are the gates; how shall I find
+    Speech with her?"
+                      "Thou shalt find," Indra replied.
+    And, lo! upon that word Nala was brought
+    To Damayanti's chamber. There he saw
+    Vidarbha's glory, sitting 'mid her maids,
+    In majesty and grace surpassing all;
+    So exquisite, so delicate of form,
+    Waist so fine-turned, such limbs, such lighted eyes,
+    The moon hath meaner radiance than she.
+    Love at the sight of that soft smiling face
+    Sprang to full passion, while he stood and gazed.
+    Yet, faith and duty urging, he restrained
+    His beating heart; but when those beauteous maids
+    Spied Nala, from their cushions they uprose,
+    Startled to see a man, yet startled more
+    Because he showed so heavenly bright and fair.
+    In wondering pleasure each saluted him,
+    Uttering no sound, but murmuring to themselves:--
+    "Aho! the grace of him: aho! the brilliance;
+    Aho! what glorious strength lives in his limbs!
+    What is he? Is he God, Gandharva, Yaksha?"
+    But this unspoken, for they dared not breathe
+    One syllable, all standing shyly there
+    To see him, and to see his youth so sweet.
+    Yet, softly glancing back to his soft glance,
+    The Princess, presently, with fluttering breath,
+    Accosted Nala, saying: "Fairest Prince,
+    Who by thy faultless form hath filled my heart
+    With sudden joy, coming as come the gods,
+    Unstayed, I crave to know thee, who thou art;
+    How didst thou enter? how wert thou unseen?
+    Our palace is close-guarded, and the King
+    Hath issued mandates stern."
+                                Tenderly spake
+    The Prince, replying to those tender words:--
+    "Most lovely! I am Nala. I am come
+    A herald of the gods unto thee here.
+    The gods desire thee, the immortal Four--
+    Indra, Varuna, Yama, Agni. Choose,
+    O Brightest! one from these to be thy lord.
+    By their help is it I have entered in
+    Unseen; none could behold me at thy gates,
+    Nor stay me, passing; and to speak their will
+    They sent me, fairest one and best. Do thou,
+    Knowing the message, judge as seemeth well."
+      She bowed her head, hearing the great gods named,
+    And then, divinely smiling, said to him:--
+    "Pledge thyself faithfully to me, and I
+    Will seek, O Raja, only how to pay
+    That debt with all I am, with all I have;
+    For I and mine are thine--in full trust thine.
+    Make me that promise, Prince. Thy gentle name--
+    Sung by the swan--first set my thoughts afire;
+    And for thy sake--only for thee--sweet Lord,
+    The kings were summoned hither. If, alas!
+    Fair Prince, thou dost reject my sudden love,
+    So proffered, then must poison, flame, or flood,
+    Or knitted cord, be my sad remedy."
+      So spake Vidarbha's Pride; and Nala said:--
+    "With gods so waiting--with the world's dread lords
+    Hastening to woo, canst thou desire a man?
+    Bethink! I, unto these, that make and mar,
+    These all-wise ones, almighty, am like dust
+    Under their feet: lift thy heart to the height
+    Of what I bring. If mortal man offend
+    The most high gods, death is what springs of it.
+    Spare me to live, thou faultless lady! Choose
+    Which of these excellent great gods thou wilt;
+    Wear the unstained robes! bear on thy brows
+    The wreaths which never fade, of heavenly blooms!
+    Be, as thou mayest, a goddess, and enjoy
+    Godlike delights! Him who enfolds the earth,
+    Creating and consuming, Brightest Power,
+    Hutasa, Eater of the Sacrifice,
+    What woman would not take? Or him whose rod
+    Herds all the generations forward still
+    On virtue's path, Red Yama, King of Death,
+    What woman would affront? Or him, the all-good,
+    All-wise destroyer of the Demons, first
+    In heaven, Mahendra--who of womankind
+    Is there that would not wed? Or, if thy mind
+    Incline, doubt not to choose Varuna; he
+    Is of these world-protectors. From a heart
+    Full friendly cometh what I tell thee now."
+      Unto Nishadha's Prince the maid replied--
+    Tears of distress dimming her lustrous eyes---
+    "Humbly I reverence these mighty gods;
+    But thee I choose, and thee I take for lord;
+    And this I vow!"
+                     With folded palms she stood,
+    And trembling lips, while his faint answer fell:--
+    "Sent on such embassy, how shall I dare
+    Speak, sweetest Princess, for myself to thee?
+    Bound by my promise for the gods to sue,
+    How can I be a suitor for myself?
+    Silence is here my duty; afterwards,
+    If I shall come, in mine own name I'll come,
+    Mine own cause pleading. Ah, might that so be!"
+      Checking her tears, Damayanti sadly smiled,
+    And said full soft: "One way of hope I see,
+    A blameless way, O Lord of men! wherefrom
+    No fault shall rise, nor any danger fall.
+    Thou also, Prince, with Indra and these gods,
+    Must enter in where my Swayamvara
+    Is held; then I, in presence of those gods,
+    Will choose thee, dearest, for my lord; and so
+    Blame shall not light on thee,"
+                                    With which sweet words
+    Soft in his ears, Nishadha straight returned
+    There where the gods were gathered, waiting him;
+    Whom the world's masters, on his way, perceived,
+    And, spying, questioned, asking for his news:--
+    "Saw'st thou her, Prince? Didst see the sweet-lipped one?
+    What spake she of us? Tell us true; tell all!"
+      Quoth Nala: "By your worshipful behest
+    Sent to her house, the great gates entered I,
+    Though the gray porters watched; but none might spy
+    My entering, by your power, O radiant Ones,
+    Saving the Raja's daughter; her I saw
+    Amid her maidens, and by them was seen.
+    On me with much amazement they did gaze
+    Whilst I your high Divinities extolled.
+    But she that hath the lovely face, with mind
+    Set upon me, hath chosen me, ye Gods.
+    For thus she spake, my Princess: 'Let them come,
+    And come thou, like a lordly tiger, too,
+    Unto the place of my Swayamvara;
+    There will I choose thee in their presence, Prince,
+    To be my lord; and so there will not fall
+    Blame, thou strong-armed! to thee,' This she did say
+    Even as I tell it; and what shall be next,
+    To will is yours, O ye immortal Ones!"
+      Soon, when the moon was good, and day and hour
+    Were found propitious, Bhima, King of men,
+    Summoned the chiefs to the Swayamvara;
+    Upon which message all those eager lords
+    For love of Damayanti hastened there.
+    Glorious with gilded pillars was the court,
+    Whereto a gate-house opened, and thereby
+    Into the square, like lions from the hills,
+    Paced the proud guests; and there their seats they took,
+    Each in his rank, the masters of the lands,
+    With crowns of fragrant blossoms garlanded,
+    And polished jewels swinging in their ears.
+    Of some the thews, knitted and rough, stood forth
+    Like iron maces; some had slender limbs,
+    Sleek and fine-turned like the five-headed snake;
+    Lords with long-flowing hair; glittering lords;
+    High-nosed, and eagle-eyed, and heavy-browed;
+    The faces of those kings shone in a ring
+    As shine at night the stars; and that great square
+    As thronged with Rajas was as Naga-land
+    Is full of serpents; thick with warlike chiefs
+    As mountain-caves with panthers. Unto these
+    Entered, in matchless majesty of form,
+    The Princess Damayanti. As she came,
+    The glory of her ravished eyes and hearts,
+    So that the gaze of all those haughty kings,
+    Fastening upon her loveliness, grew fixed--
+    Not moving save with her--step after step
+    Onward and always following the maid.
+      But while the styles and dignities of all
+    Were cried aloud (O son of Bharat!), lo!
+    The Princess marked five of that throng alike
+    In form and garb and visage. There they stood,
+    Each from the next undifferenced, but each
+    Nala's own self;--yet which might Nala be
+    In nowise could that doubting maid descry.
+    Who took her eye seemed Nala while she gazed,
+    Until she looked upon his like; and so
+    Pondered the lovely lady, sore-perplexed,
+    Thinking, "How shall I tell which be the gods,
+    And which is noble Nala?" Deep-distressed
+    And meditative waxed she, musing hard
+    What those signs were, delivered us of old,
+    Whereby gods may be known: "Of all those signs
+    Taught by our elders, lo! I see not one
+    Where stand yon five." So murmured she, and turned
+    Over and over every mark she knew.
+    At last, resolved to make the gods themselves
+    Her help at need, with reverent air and voice
+    Humbly saluted she those heavenly ones,
+    And with joined palms and trembling accents spake:--
+    "As, when I heard the swans, I chose my Prince,
+    By that sincerity I call ye, Gods,
+    To show my Love to me and make me know!
+    As in my heart and soul and speech I stand
+    True to my choice, by that sincerity
+    I call the all-knowing gods to make me know!
+    As the high gods created Nishadha's chief
+    To be my lord, by their sincerity
+    I bid them show themselves, and make me know!
+    As my vow, sealed to him, must be maintained
+    For his name, and for mine, I call the gods
+    By such sincerity to make me know!
+    Let them appear, the masters of the world--
+    The high gods--each one in his proper shape,
+    That I may see Nishadha's chief, my choice,
+    Whom minstrels praise, and Damayanti loves."
+      Hearing that earnest speech--so passion-fraught,
+    So full of truth, of strong resolve, of love,
+    Of singleness of soul and constancy--
+    Even as she spake, the gods disclosed themselves.
+    By well-seen signs the effulgent Ones she knew.
+    Shadowless stood they, with unwinking eyes,
+    And skins which never moist with sweat; their feet
+    Light-gliding o'er the ground, not touching it;
+    The unfading blossoms on their brows not soiled
+    By earthly dust, but ever fair and fresh.
+    Whilst, by their side, garbed so and visaged so,
+    But doubled by his shadow, stained with dust,
+    The flower-cups wiltering in his wreath, his skin
+    Pearly with sweat, his feet upon the earth,
+    And eyes a-wink, stood Nala. One by one
+    Glanced she on those divinities, then bent
+    Her gaze upon the Prince, and, joyous, said:--
+    "I know thee, and I name my rightful lord,
+    Taking Nishadha's chief." Therewith she drew
+    Modestly nigh, and held him by the cloth,
+    With large eyes beaming love, and round his neck
+    Hung the bright chaplet, love's delicious crown;
+    So choosing him--him only--whom she named
+    Before the face of all to be her lord.
+      Oh, then brake forth from all those suitors proud,
+    "Ha!" and "Aho!" But from the gods and saints,
+    "Sadhu! well done! well done!" And all admired
+    The happy Prince, praising the grace of him;
+    While Virasena's son, delightedly,
+    Spake to the slender-waisted these fond words:--
+    "Fair Princess! since, before all gods and men,
+    Thou makest me thy choice, right glad am I
+    Of this thy mind, and true lord will I be.
+    For so long, loveliest, as my breath endures,
+    Thine am I! Thus I plight my troth to thee."
+    So, with joined palms, unto that beauteous maid
+    His gentle faith he pledged, rejoicing her;
+    And, hand in hand, radiant with mutual love,
+    Before great Agni and the gods they passed,
+    The world's protectors worshipping.
+                                       Then those,
+    The lords of life, the powerful Ones, bestowed--
+    Being well-pleased--on Nala, chosen so,
+    Eight noble boons. The boon which Indra gave
+    Was grace, at times of sacrifice, to see
+    The visible god approach, with step divine;
+    And Agni's boon was this, that he would come
+    Whenever Nala called--for everywhere
+    Hutasa shineth, and all worlds are his;
+    Yama gave skill in cookery, steadfastness
+    In virtue; and Varuna, King of Floods,
+    Bade all the waters ripple at his call.
+    These boons the high gods doubled by the gift
+    Of bright wreaths wove with magic blooms of heaven;
+    And those bestowed, ascended to their seats.
+    Also with wonder and with joy returned
+    The Rajas and the Maharajas all,
+    Full of the marriage-feast; for Bhima made,
+    In pride and pleasure, stately nuptials;
+    So Damayanti and the Prince were wed.
+      Then, having tarried as is wont, that lord--
+    Nishadha's chief--took the King's leave, and went
+    Unto his city, bringing home with him
+    His jewel of all womanhood, with whom
+    Blissful he lived, as lives by Sachi's side
+    The slayer of the Demons. Like a sun
+    Shone Nala on his throne, ruling his folk
+    In strength and virtue, guardian of his state.
+    Also the Aswamedha Rite he made
+    Greatest of rites, the Offering of the Horse,
+    As did Yayati; and all other acts
+    Of worship; and to sages gave rich gifts.
+      Many dear days of much delicious love,
+    In pleasant gardens and in shadowy groves,
+    Passed they together, sojourning like gods.
+    And Damayanti bore unto her lord
+    A boy named Indrasen, and next, a girl
+    Named Indrasena. So in happiness
+    The good Prince governed, seeing all his lands
+    Wealthy and well, in piety and peace.
+      Now at the choosing of Nishadha's chief
+    By Bhima's daughter, when those lords of life--
+    The effulgent gods--departed, Dwapara
+    They saw with Kali, coming. Indra said--
+    The Demon-slayer--spying these approach:--
+    "Whither, with Dwapara, goest thou to-day,
+    O Kali?" And the sombre Shade replied:--
+    "To Damayanti's high Swayamvara
+    I go, to make her mine, since she hath passed
+    Into my heart." But Indra, laughing, said:--
+    "Ended is that Swayamvara; for she
+    Hath taken Raja Nala for her lord,
+    Before us all," But Kali, hearing this,
+    Breaks into wrath--while he stood worshipping
+    That band divine--and furiously cries:--
+    "If she hath set a man above the gods,
+    To wed with him, for such sin let there fall
+    Doom, rightful, swift, and terrible, on her!"
+    "Nay," answered unto him those heavenly ones,
+    "But Damayanti chose with our good-will;
+    And what maid but would choose so fair a prince,
+    Seeing he hath all qualities, and knows
+    Virtue, and rightly practises the vows,
+    And reads the four great Vedas, and, what's next,
+    The Holy Stories, whilst, perpetually,
+    The gods are honored in his house with gifts?
+    No hurt he does, kind to all living things;
+    True of word is he, faithful, liberal, just;
+    Steadfast and patient, temperate and pure;
+    A king of men is Nala, like the gods.
+    He that would curse a prince of such a mould,
+    Thou foolish Kali, lays upon himself
+    A sin to crush himself; the curse comes back
+    And sinks him in the bottomless vast gulf
+    Of Narak."
+              Thus the gods to Kali spake,
+    And mounted heavenward; whereupon that Shade,
+    Frowning, to Dwapara burst forth: "My rage
+    Beareth no curb. Henceforth in Nala I
+    Will dwell; his kingdom I will make to fall;
+    His bliss with Damayanti I will mar;
+    And thou within the dice shalt enter straight,
+    And help me, Dwapara! to drag him down,"
+      Into which compact entering, those repaired--
+    Kali and Dwapara--to Nala's house,
+    And haunted in Nishadha, where he ruled,
+    Seeking occasion 'gainst the blameless Prince.
+    Long watched they; twelve years rolled ere Kali saw
+    The fateful fault arrive; Nishadha's Lord,
+    Easing himself, and sprinkling hands and lips
+    With purifying water, passed to prayer,
+    His feet unwashed, offending. Kali straight
+    Possessed the heedless Raja, entering him.
+      That hour there sat with Nala, Pushkara
+    His brother; and the evil spirit hissed
+    Into the ear of Pushkara: "Ehi!
+    Arise, and challenge Nala at the dice.
+    Throw with the Prince! it may be thou shalt win
+    (Luck helping thee, and I) Nishadha's throne,
+    Town, treasures, palace--thou mayest gain them all."
+    And Pushkara, hearing Kali's evil voice,
+    Made near to Nala, with the dice in hand
+    (A great piece for the "Bull," and little ones
+    For "Cows," and Kali hiding in the Bull).
+    So Pushkara came to Nala's side and said:--
+    "Play with me, brother, at the 'Cows and Bull';"
+    And, being put off, cried mockingly, "Nay, play!"
+    Shaming the Prince, whose spirit chafed to leave
+    A gage unfaced; but when Vidarbha's gem,
+    The Princess, heard that challenge, Nala rose:
+    "Yea, Pushkara, I will play!" fiercely he said;
+    And to the game addressed.
+                              His gems he lost,
+    Armlets and belt and necklet; next the gold
+    Of the palace and its vessels; then the cars
+    Yoked with swift steeds; and last, the royal robes:
+    For, cast by cast, the dice against him fell,
+    Bewitched by Kali; and, cast after cast,
+    The passion of the dice kept hold on him,
+    Until not one of all his faithfullest
+    Could stay the madman's hand and gamester's heart
+    Of who was named "Subduer of his Foes."
+      The townsmen gathered with the ministers:
+    Into that palace gate they thronged (my King!)
+    To see their lord, if so they might abate
+    This sickness of his soul. The charioteer,
+    Forth standing from their midst, low worshipping,
+    Spake thus to Damayanti: "Great Princess,
+    Before thy door all the grieved city sits.
+    Say to our lord for us, 'Thy folk are here;
+    They mourn that evil fortunes hold their liege,
+    Who was so high and just,'" Then she, deject,
+    Passed in, and to Nishadha's ruler said,
+    Her soft voice broken, and her bright eyes dimmed:--
+    "Raja, the people of thy town are here;
+    Before our gates they gather, citizens
+    And counsellors, desiring speech with thee;
+    In lealty they come. Wilt thou be pleased
+    We open to them? Wilt thou?" So she asked
+    Again and yet again; but not one word
+    To that sad lady with the lovely brows
+    Did Nala answer, wholly swallowed up
+    Of Kali and the gaming; so that those--
+    The citizens and counsellors--cried out,
+    "Our lord is changed! He is not Nala now!"
+    And home returned, ashamed and sorrowful;
+    Whilst ceaselessly endured that foolish play
+    Moon after moon--the Prince the loser still.
+      Then Damayanti, seeing so estranged
+    Her lord, the praised in song, the chief of men,
+    Watching, all self-possessed, his fantasy,
+    And how the gaming held him; sad, and 'feared,
+    The heavy fortunes pondering of her Prince;
+    Hating the fault, but to the offender kind;
+    And fearing Nala should be stripped of all,
+    This thing devised: Vrihatsena she called--
+    Her foster-nurse and faithful ministrant--
+    True, skilful at all service, soft of speech,
+    Kind-hearted; and she said, "Vrihatsena,
+    Go call the ministers to council now,
+    As though 'twere Nala bade; and make them count
+    What store is gone of treasure, what abides."
+    So went Vrihatsena, and summoned those;
+    And when they knew all things, as from the Prince,
+    "Truly we, too, shall perish!" cried they then;
+    And all to Nala went, and all the town,
+    A second time assembling, thronged his gates:--
+    Which Bhima's daughter told; but not one word
+    Answered the Prince. And when she saw her lord
+    Put by her plea, utterly slighting it,
+    Back to her chamber, full of shame, she goes,
+    And there still hears the dice are falling ill;
+    Still hears of Nala daily losing more;
+    So that again unto her nurse she spake:--
+    "Send to Varshneya, good Vrihatsena;
+    Say to the charioteer--in Nala's name--
+    'A great thing is to do. Come thou!'" And this--
+    So soon as Damayanti uttered it--
+    Vrihatsena, by faithful servants, told
+    Unto the son of Vrishni, who, being come
+    In fitting time and place, heard the sweet Queen
+    In mournful music speak these wistful words:--
+    "Thou knowest how thy Raja trusted thee;
+    Now he hath fall'n on evil; succor him!
+    The more that Pushkara conquers in the play,
+    The wilder rage of gaming takes thy lord--
+    The more for Pushkara the dice light well,
+    More contrary they happen to the Prince:
+    Nor heeds he, as were meet, kindred or friends;
+    Nay, of myself he putteth by the prayer
+    Unanswered, being bewitched; for well I deem
+    This is not noble-minded Nala's sin,
+    But some ill spell possesseth him to shut
+    His ears to me. Thou, therefore, charioteer!
+    Our refuge be; do what I shall command;
+    My heart is dark with fear. Yea, it may fall
+    Our lord will perish. Wherefore, harnessing
+    His chosen steeds, which fly as swift as thought.
+    Take these our children in the chariot
+    And drive to Kundina, delivering there
+    Unto my kin the little ones, and car,
+    And horses. Afterwards abide thou there,
+    Or otherwhere depart."
+                           Varshneya heard
+    The words of Damayanti, and forthwith
+    In Nala's council-hall recounted them,
+    The chief men being present; who, thus met,
+    And long debating, gave him leave to go.
+    So with that royal pair to Bhima's town
+    Drove he, and at Vidarbha rendered up,
+    Together with the swift steeds and the car,
+    That sweet maid Indrasena, and the Prince
+    Indrasen, and made reverence to the King,
+    Saddened for sake of Nala. Afterwards
+    Taking his leave, unto Ayodhya
+    Varshneya went, exceeding sorrowful,
+    And with King Rituparna (O my Prince!)
+    Took service as a charioteer.
+                                  These gone--
+    The praised-of-poets, Nala, still played on,
+    Till Pushkara his kingdom's wealth had won,
+    And whatso was to lose beside. Thereat
+    With scornful laugh mocked he that beggared Prince,
+    Saying, "One other throw; once more!--Yet sooth,
+    What canst thou stake? Nothing is left for thee
+    Save Damayanti; all the rest is mine.
+    Play we for Damayanti, if thou wilt."
+    But hearing this from Pushkara, the Prince
+    So in his heart by grief and shame was torn,
+    No word he uttered--only glared in wrath
+    Upon his mocker, upon Pushkara.
+    Then, his rich robes and jewels stripping off,
+    Uncovered, with one cloth, 'mid waiting friends
+    Sorrowful passed he forth, his great state gone;
+    The Princess, with one garment, following him,
+    Piteous to see. And there without the gates
+    Three nights they lay--Nashadha's King and Queen.
+    Upon the fourth day Pushkara proclaimed,
+    Throughout the city, "Whoso yieldeth help
+    To Nala, dieth! Let my will be known!"
+      So, for this bitter word of Pushkara's power
+    (O Yudhisthir!) the townsmen rendered not
+    Service nor love, but left them outcast there,
+    Unhelped, whom all the city should have helped.
+    Yet three nights longer tarried he, his drink
+    The common pool, his meat such fruits and roots
+    As miserable hunger plucks from earth:
+    Then fled they from those walls, the Prince going first,
+    The Princess following.
+                            After grievous days,
+    Pinched ever with sharp famine, Nala saw
+    A flock of gold-winged birds lighting anigh,
+    And to himself the famished Raja said:--
+    "Lo! here is food; this day we shall have store;"
+    Then lightly cast his cloth and covered them.
+    But these, fluttering aloft, bore with them there
+    Nala's one cloth; and, hovering overhead,
+    Uttered sharp-stinging words, reviling him
+    Even as he stood, naked to all the airs,
+    Downcast and desperate: "Thou brain-sick Prince!
+    We are the dice; we come to ravish hence
+    Thy last poor cloth; we were not well content
+    Thou shouldst depart owning a garment still."
+    And when he saw the dice take wings and fly,
+    Leaving him bare, to Damayanti spake
+    This melancholy Prince: "O Blameless One,
+    They by whose malice I am driven forth,
+    Finding no sustenance, sad, famine-gaunt--
+    They whose decree forbade Nishadha's folk
+    Should succor me, their Raja--these have come--
+    Demon and dice--and like to winged birds
+    Have borne away my cloth. To such shame fall'n,
+    Such utmost woe, wretched, demented--I
+    Thy lord am still, and counsel thee for good.
+    Attend! Hence be there many roads which go
+    Southwards: some pass Avanti's walls, and some
+    Skirt Rikshavan, the forest of the bears;
+    This wends to Vindhya's lofty peaks, and this
+    To the green banks where quick Payoshni runs
+    Seaward, between her hermitages, rich
+    In fruits and roots; and yon path leadeth thee
+    Unto Vidarbha; that to Kosala,
+    And therefrom southward--southward--far away."
+      So spake he to the Princess wistfully,
+    Between his words pointing along the paths,
+    Which she should take (O King!). But Bhima's child
+    Made answer, bowed with grief, her soft voice choked
+    With sobs, these piteous accents uttering:--
+      "My heart beats quick; my body's force is gone,
+    Thinking, dear Prince, on this which thou hast said,
+    Pointing along the paths. What! robbed of realm,
+    Stripped of thy wealth, bare, famished, parched with thirst,
+    Thus shall I leave thee in the untrodden wood?
+    Ah, no! While thou dost muse on dear days fled,
+    Hungry and weeping, I in this wild waste
+    Will charm thy griefs away, solacing thee.
+    The wisest doctors say, 'In every woe
+    No better physic is than wifely love,'
+    And, Nala, I will make it true to thee."
+      "Thou mak'st it true," he said; "thou sayest well,
+    Sweet Damayanti; neither is there friend
+    To sad men given better than a wife.
+    I had not thought to leave thee, foolish Love!
+    Why didst thou fear? Alas, 't is from myself
+    That I would fly--not thee, thou Faultless One!"
+      "Yet, if," the Princess answered, "Maharaja!
+    Thou hadst no thought to leave me, why by thee
+    Was the way pointed to Vidarbha's walls?
+    I know thou wouldst not quit me, noblest Lord,
+    Being thyself, but only if thy mind
+    Were sore distraught; and see, thou gazest still
+    Along the southward road, my dread thereby
+    Increasing, thou that wert as are the gods!
+    If it be thy fixed thought, 'Twere best she went
+    Unto her people'--be it so; I go;
+    But hand in hand with thee. Thus let us fare
+    Unto Vidarbha, where the King, my sire,
+    Will greet thee well, and honor thee; and we
+    Happy and safe within his gates shall dwell."
+      "As is thy father's kingdom," Nala said,
+    "So, once, was mine. Be sure, whatever betide,
+    Never will I go thither! How, in sooth,
+    Should I, who came there glorious, gladdening thee,
+    Creep back, thy shame and scorn, disconsolate?"
+      So to sweet Damayanti spake the Prince,
+    Beguiling her, whom now one cloth scarce clad--
+    For but one garb they shared; and thus they strayed
+    Hither and thither, faint for meat and drink,
+    Until a little hut they spied; and there,
+    Nishadha's monarch, entering, sat him down
+    On the bare ground, the Princess by his side--
+    Vidarbha's glory, wearing that scant cloth,
+    Without a mat, soiled by the dust and mire.
+    At Damayanti's side he sank asleep,
+    Outworn; and beauteous Damayanti slept,
+    Spent with strange trials--- she so gently reared,
+    So soft and holy. But while slumbering thus,
+    No peaceful rest knew Nala. Trouble-tossed
+    He woke, forever thinking of his realm
+    Lost, lieges estranged, and all the griefs
+    Of that wild wood. These on his heart came back,
+    And, "What if I shall do it? What, again,
+    If I shall do it not?" So murmured he.
+    "Would death be better, or to leave my Love?
+    For my sake she endures this woe, my fate
+    Too fondly sharing; freed from me, her steps
+    Would turn unto her people. At my side,
+    Sure suffering is her portion; but apart,
+    It might be she would somewhere comfort find."
+      Thus with himself debating o'er and o'er,
+    The Prince resolves abandonment were best.
+    "For how," saith he, "should any in the wood
+    Harm her, so radiant in her grace, so good,
+    So noble, virtuous, faithful, famous, pure?"
+    Thus mused his miserable mind, seduced
+    By Kali's cursed mischiefs to betray
+    His sleeping wife. Then, seeing his loin-cloth gone,
+    And Damayanti clad, he drew anigh,
+    Thinking to take of hers, and muttering,
+    "May I not rend one fold, and she not know?"
+    So meditating, round the cabin crept
+    Prince Nala, feeling up and down its walls;
+    And, presently, within the purlieus found
+    A naked knife, keen-tempered; therewithal
+    Shred he away a piece, and bound it on;
+    Then made with desperate steps to seek the waste,
+    Leaving the Princess sleeping; but, anon,
+    Turns back again in changeful mood and glides
+    Into the hut, and, gazing wistfully
+    On slumbering Damayanti, moans with tears:--
+    "Ah, Sweetheart! whom nor wind nor sun before
+    Hath ever rudely touched; thou to be couched
+    In this poor hut, its floor thy bed, and I,
+    Thy lord, deserting thee, stealing from thee
+    Thy last robe! O my Love with the bright smile,
+    My slender-waisted Queen! Will she not wake
+    To madness? Yea, and when she wanders lone
+    In the dark wood, haunted with beasts and snakes,
+    How will it fare with Bhima's tender child,
+    The bright and peerless? O my life, my wife!
+    May the great sun, may the Eight Powers of air,
+    The Rudras, Maruts, and the Aswins twain,
+    Guard thee, thou true and dear one, on thy way!"
+      So to his sleeping Queen--on all the earth
+    Unmatched for beauty--spake he piteously;
+    Then breaks away once more, by Kali driven.
+    But yet another and another time
+    Stole back into the hut, for one last gaze--
+    That way by Kali dragged, this way by love.
+    Two hearts he had--the trouble-stricken Prince--
+    One beating "Go," one throbbing "Stay"; and thus
+    Backwards and forwards swung his mind between,
+    Till, mastered by the sorrow and the spell,
+    Frantic flies Nala, leaving there alone
+    That tender-sleeper, sighing as she slept.
+    He flies--the soulless prey of Kali flies;
+    Still, while he hurries through the forest drear,
+    Thinking upon that sweet face he hath left.
+      Far distant (King!) was Nala, when, refreshed,
+    The slender-waisted wakened, shuddering
+    At the wood's silence; but when, seeking him,
+    She found no Nala, sudden anguish seized
+    Her frightened heart, and, lifting high her voice,
+    Loud cries she: "Maharaja! Nishadha's Prince!
+    Ha, Lord! ha, Maharaja! ha, Master! why
+    Hast thou abandoned me? Now am I lost,
+    Am doomed, undone, left in this lonesome gloom.
+    Wert thou not named, O Nala, true and just?
+    Yet art thou such, to quit me while I slept?
+    And hast thou so forsaken me, thy wife--
+    Thine own fond wife--who never wrought thee wrong
+    When by all others wrong was wrought on thee?
+    Mak'st thou it good to me, now, Lord of men,
+    That love which long ago before the gods
+    Thou didst proclaim? Alas! Death will not come,
+    Except at his appointed time to men,
+    And therefore for a little I shall live,
+    Whom thou hast lived to leave. Nay, 't is a jest!
+    Ah, Truant, Runaway, enough thou play'st!
+    Come forth, my Lord!--I am afraid! Come forth!
+    Linger not, for I see--I spy thee there;
+    Thou art within yon thicket! Why not speak
+    One word, Nishadha? Nala, cruel Prince!
+    Thou know'st me, lone, and comest not to calm
+    My terrors, and be with me in my need.
+    Art gone indeed? Then I'll not mourn myself,
+    For whatso may befall me; I must think
+    How desolate thou art, and weep for thee.
+    What wilt thou do, thirsty and hungry, spent
+    With wandering, when, at nightfall, 'mid the trees
+    Thou hast me not, sweet Prince, to comfort thee?"
+      Thereat, distracted by her bitter fears,
+    Like one whose heart is fire, forward and back
+    She runs, hither and thither, weeping, wild.
+    One while she sinks to earth, one while she springs
+    Quick to her feet; now utterly overcome
+    By fear and fasting, now by grief driven mad,
+    Wailing and sobbing; till anon, with moans
+    And broken sighs and tears, Bhima's fair child,
+    The ever-faithful wife, speaks thus again:--
+    "By whomsoever's spell this harm hath fall'n
+    On Nishadha's Lord, I pray that evil one
+    May bear a bitterer plague than Nala doth!
+    To him, whoever set my guileless Prince
+    On these ill deeds, I pray some direr might
+    May bring far darker days, and life to live
+    More miserable still!"
+                          Thus, woe-begone,
+    Mourned that great-hearted wife her vanished lord,
+    Seeking him ever in the gloomy shades,
+    By wild beasts haunted. Roaming everywhere,
+    Like one possessed, frantic, disconsolate,
+    Went Bhima's daughter. "Ha, ha! Maharaja!"
+    So crying runs she, so in every place
+    Is heard her ceaseless wail, as when is heard
+    The fish-hawk's cry, which screams, and circling screams,
+    And will not stint complaining.
+                                    Suddenly,
+    Straying too near his den, a serpent's coils
+    Seized Bhima's daughter. A prodigious snake,
+    Glittering and strong, and furious for food,
+    Knitted about the Princess. She, o'erwhelmed
+    With horror, and the cold enfolding death,
+    Spends her last breaths in pitiful laments
+    For Nala, not herself. "Ah, Prince!" she cried,
+    "That would have saved me, who must perish now,
+    Seized in the lone wood by this hideous snake,
+    Why art thou not beside me? What will be
+    Thy thought, Nishadha! me remembering
+    In days to come, when, from the curse set free,
+    Thou hast thy noble mind again, thyself,
+    Thy wealth--all save thy wife? Then thou'lt be sad,
+    Be weary, wilt need food and drink; but I
+    Shall minister no longer. Who will tend
+    My Love, my Lord, my Lion among kings,
+    My blameless Nala--Damayanti dead?"
+      That hour a hunter, roving through the brake,
+    Heard her bewailing, and with quickened steps
+    Made nigh, and, spying a woman, almond-eyed,
+    Lovely, forlorn, by that fell monster knit,
+    He ran, and, as he came, with keen shaft clove,
+    Through gaping mouth and crown, th'unwitting worm,
+    Slaying it. Then the woodman from its folds
+    Freed her, and laved the snake's slime from her limbs
+    With water of the pool, comforting her
+    And giving food; and afterwards (my King!)
+    Inquiry made: "What doest, in this wood,
+    Thou with the fawn's eyes? And how earnest thou,
+    My mistress, to such pit of misery?"
+      And Damayanti, spoken fair by him,
+    Recounted all which had befallen her.
+      But, gazing on her graces, scantly clad
+    With half a cloth, those smooth, full sides, those breasts
+    Beauteously swelling, form of faultless mould,
+    Sweet youthful face, fair as the moon at full,
+    And dark orbs, by long curving lashes swept;
+    Hearing her tender sighs and honeyed speech,
+    The hunter fell to hot desire; he dared
+    Essay to woo, with whispered words at first,
+    And next by amorous approach, the Queen;
+    Who, presently perceiving what he would,
+    And all that baseness of him--being so pure,
+    So chaste, and faithful--like a blazing torch
+    Took fire of scorn and anger 'gainst the man,
+    Her true soul burning at him, till the wretch,
+    Wicked in heart, but impotent of will,
+    Glared on her, splendidly invincible
+    In weakness, loftily defying wrong,
+    A living flame of lighted chastity.
+    She then--albeit so desolate, so lone,
+    Abandoned by her lord, stripped of her state--
+    Like a proud princess stormed, flinging away
+    All terms of supplication, cursing him
+    With wrath which scorched: "If I am clean in heart
+    And true in thought unto Nishadha's King,
+    Then mayest thou, vile pursuer of the beasts,
+    Sink to the earth, stone dead!"
+                                    While she did speak,
+    The hunter breathless fell to earth, stone dead,
+    As falls a tree-trunk blasted by the bolt.
+      That ravisher destroyed, the lotus-eyed
+    Fared forward, threading still the fearful wood,
+    Lonely and dim, with trill of jhillikas[22]
+    Resounding, and fierce noise of many beasts
+    Laired in its shade, lions and leopards, deer,
+    Close-hiding tigers, sullen bisons, wolves,
+    And shaggy bears. Also the glades of it
+    Were filled with fowl which crept, or flew, and cried.
+    A home for savage men and murderers,
+    Thick with a world of trees, whereof was sal,
+    Sharp-seeded, weeping gum; knotted bambus,
+    Dhavas with twisted roots; smooth aswatthas,
+    Large-leaved, and creeping through the cloven rocks;
+    Tindukas, iron-fibred, dark of grain;
+    Ingudas, yielding oil; and kinsukas,
+    With scarlet flowerets flaming. Thronging these
+    Were arjuns and arishta-clumps, which bear
+    The scented purple clusters; syandans,
+    And tall silk-cotton trees, and mango-belts
+    With silvery spears; and wild rose-apple, blent
+    'Mid lodhra-tufts and khadirs, interknit
+    By clinging rattans, climbing everywhere
+    From stem to stem. Therewith were intermixed--
+    Round pools where rocked the lotus--amalaks,
+    Plakshas with fluted leaves, kadambas sweet,
+    Udumbaras; and, on the jungle-edge,
+    Tangles of reed and jujube, whence there rose
+    Bel-trees and nyagrodhas, dropping roots
+    Down from the air; broad-leaved priyalas, palms
+    And date-trees, and the gold myrobalan,
+    With copper-leaved vibhitikas. All these
+    Crowded the wood; and many a crag it held,
+    With precious ore of metals interveined;
+    And many a creeper-covered cave wherein
+    The spoken word rolled round; and many a cleft
+    Where the thick stems were like a wall to see;
+    And many a winding stream and reedy jheel,
+    And glassy lakelet, where the woodland beasts
+    In free peace gathered.
+                            Wandering onward thus,
+    The Princess saw far-gliding forms of dread--
+    Pisachas, Rakshasas, ill sprites and fiends
+    Which haunt, with swinging snakes, the undergrowth.
+    Dark pools she saw, and drinking-holes, and peaks
+    Wherefrom break down in tumbling cataracts
+    The wild white waters, marvellous to hear.
+    Also she passed--this daughter of a king--
+    Where snorted the fierce buffaloes, and where
+    The gray boars rooted for their food, and where
+    The black bears growled, and serpents in the grass
+    Rustled and hissed. But all along that way
+    Safe paced she in her majesty of grace,
+    High fortune, courage, constancy, and right--
+    Vidarbha's glory--seeking, all alone,
+    Lost Nala; and less terror at these sights
+    Came to sad Damayanti for herself--
+    Threading this dreadful forest--than for him.
+    Most was her mind on Nala's fate intent.
+    Bitterly grieving stood the sweet Princess
+    Upon a rock, her tender limbs a-thrill
+    With heavy fears for Nala while she spake:--
+      "Broad-chested Chief! my long-armed Lord of men!
+    Nishadha's King! Ah! whither art thou gone.
+    Leaving me thus in the unpeopled wood?
+    The Aswamedha sacrifice thou mad'st,
+    And all the rites and royal gifts hast given,
+    A lion-hearted Prince, holy and true
+    To all save me! That which thou didst declare,
+    Hand in hand with me--once so fond and kind--
+    Recall it now--thy sacred word, thy vow,
+    Whithersoever, Raja, thou art fled.
+    Think how the message of the gold-winged swans
+    Was spoken, by thine own lips, then to me!
+    True men keep faith; this is the teaching taught
+    In Vedas, Angas, and Upangas all,
+    Hear which we may; wilt thou not, therefore, Prince--
+    Wilt thou not, terror of thy foes, keep faith,
+    Making thy promise good to cleave to me?
+    Ha, Nala, Lord! Am I not surely still
+    Thy chosen, thy beloved? Answerest not
+    Thy wife in this dark, horror-haunted shade?
+    The tyrant of the jungle, fierce and fell,
+    With jaws agape to take me, crouches nigh,
+    And thou not here to rescue me--not thou,
+    Who saidst none other in the world was dear
+    But Damayanti! Prove the fond speech true,
+    Uttered so often! Why repliest not
+    To me, thy well-beloved; me, distraught,
+    Longed for and longing; me, my Prince and pride,
+    That am so weary, weak, and miserable,
+    Stained with the mire, in this torn cloth half clad,
+    Alone and weeping, seeing no help near?
+    Ah, stag of all the herd! leav'st thou thy hind
+    Astray, regarding not these tears which roll?
+    My Nala, Maharaja! It is I
+    Who cry, thy Damayanti, true and pure,
+    Lost in the wood, and still thou answerest not!
+    High-born, high-hearted, full of grace and strength
+    In all thy limbs, shall I not find thee soon
+    On yonder hill? Shall I not see, at last,
+    In some track of this grim, beast-peopled wood,
+    Standing, or seated, or upon the leaves
+    Lying, or coming, him who is of men
+    The glory, but for me the grief-maker?
+    If not, whom shall I question, woe-begone,
+    Saying, 'In any region of this wood
+    Hast thou, perchance, seen Nala?' Is there none,
+    In all the forest, would reply to me
+    With tidings of my lord, wandered away,
+    Kingly in mind and form, of hosts of foes
+    The conqueror? Who will say, with blessed voice,
+    'That Raja with the lotus-eyes is near,
+    Whom thou dost seek'?--Nay, here comes one to ask,
+    The yellow forest-king, his great jaws armed
+    With fourfold fangs. A tiger standeth now
+    Face to face on my path; I'll speak with him
+    Fearlessly: 'Dreadful chief of all this waste,
+    Thou art the sovereign of the beasts, and I
+    Am daughter of Vidarbha's King; my name,
+    The Princess Damayanti; know thou me,
+    Wife of Nishadha's Lord--of Nala--styled
+    "Subduer of his Foes"? Him seek I here--
+    Abandoned, sorrow-stricken, miserable.
+    Comfort me, mighty beast, if so thou canst,
+    Saying thou hast seen Nala; but if this
+    Thou canst not do, then, ah, thou savage lord,
+    Terrible friend, devour me, setting me
+    Free from all woes!' The tiger answereth not;
+    He turns, and quits me in my tears, to stalk
+    Down where the river glitters through the reeds,
+    Seeking its seaward way. Then will I pray
+    Unto yon sacred mount of clustered crags,
+    Broad-shouldered, shining, lifting high to heaven
+    Its diverse-colored peaks, where the mind climbs
+    Its hid heart rich with silver veins, and gold,
+    And stored with many a precious gem unseen.
+    Clear towers it o'er the forest, broad and bright
+    Like a green banner; and the sides of it
+    House many a living thing--lions and boars,
+    Tigers and elephants, and bears and deer.
+    Softly around me from its feathered flocks
+    The songs ring, perched upon the kinsuk trees,
+    The asokas, vakuls, and punnaga boughs,
+    Or hidden in the karnikara leaves,
+    And tendrils of the dhava or the fig;
+    Full of great glens it soars, where waters leap
+    And bright birds lave. This king of hills I sue
+    For tidings of my lord. O Mountain Lord,
+    Far-seen and celebrated hill! that cleav'st
+    The blue of the sky, refuge of living things,
+    Most noble eminence, I worship thee;
+    Thee I salute, who am a monarch's child,
+    The daughter and the consort of a prince,
+    The high-born Damayanti, unto whom
+    Bhima, Vidarbha's chief--that puissant lord--
+    Was sire, renowned o'er earth. Protector he
+    Of the four castes, performer of the rites
+    Called Rajasuya and the Aswamedha--
+    A bounteous giver, first of rulers, known
+    For his large shining eyes; holy and just,
+    Fast to his word, unenvious, sweet of speech,
+    Gentle and valiant, dutiful and pure;
+    The guardian of Vidarbha, of his foes
+    The slayer. Know me, O Majestic Mount!
+    For that King's daughter, bending low to thee.
+    In Nishadha lived the father of my lord,
+    The Maharaja Virasena named,
+    Wealthy and great; whose son, of regal blood,
+    High-fortuned, powerful, and noble-souled,
+    Ruleth by right the realm paternal: he
+    Is Nala, terror of all enemies;
+    Dark Nala, praised-in-song; Nala the just,
+    The pure; deep-seen in scriptures, sweet of speech,
+    Drinker of Soma-juice, and worshipper
+    Of Agni; sacrificing, giving gifts;
+    First in the wars, a perfect, princely lord.
+    His wife am I, Great Mountain! and come here
+    Fortuneless, husbandless, and spiritless,
+    Everywhere seeking him, my best of men.
+    O Mount, whose doubled ridge stamps on the sky
+    Yon line, by fivescore splendid pinnacles
+    Indented! tell me, in this gloomy wood
+    Hast thou seen Nala? Nala, wise and bold,
+    Like a tusked elephant for might; long armed,
+    Indomitable, gallant, glorious, true;
+    Nala, Nishadha's chief--hast thou seen him?
+    O Mountain, why consolest thou me not,
+    Answering one word to sorrowful, distressed,
+    Lonely, lost Damayanti?"
+                            Then she cried:--
+    "But answer for thyself, Hero and Lord!
+    If thou art in the forest, show thyself!
+    Alas! when shall I hear that voice, as low,
+    As tender as the murmur of the rain
+    When great clouds gather; sweet as Amrit-drink?
+    Thy voice, once more, my Nala, calling to me
+    Full softly, 'Damayanti!'--dearest Prince,
+    That would be music soothing to these ears
+    As sound of sacred Veda; that would stay
+    My pains and comfort me, and bring me peace."
+      Thereafter, turning from the mount, she went
+    Northwards, and journeying on three nights and days
+    Came to a green incomparable grove
+    By holy men inhabited; a haunt
+    Placid as Paradise, whose indwellers
+    Like to Vasistha, Bhrigu, Atri, were--
+    Those ancient saints. Restraining sense they lived,
+    Heedful in meats, subduing passion, pure,
+    Breathing within; their food water and herbs;
+    Ascetics; very holy; seeking still
+    The heavenward road; clad in the bark of trees
+    And skins--all gauds of earth being put by.
+    This hermitage, peopled by gentle ones,
+    Glad Damayanti spied, circled with herds
+    Of wild things grazing fearless, and with troops
+    Of monkey-folk o'erheard; and when she saw,
+    Her heart was lightened, for its quietness.
+    So drew she nigh--that lovely wanderer--
+    Bright-browed, long-tressed, large-hipped, full-bosomed, fair,
+    With pearly teeth and honeyed mouth, in gait
+    Right queenly still, having those long black eyes--
+    The wife of Virasena's son, the gem
+    Of all dear women, glory of her time;
+    Sad Damayanti entered their abode,
+    Those holy men saluting reverently,
+    With modest body bowed. Thus stood she there
+    And all the saints spake gently, "_Swagatam_--
+    Welcome!" and gave the greetings which are meet;
+    And afterwards, "Repose thyself," they said;
+    "What wouldst thou have of us?" Then, with soft words
+    The slender-waisted spake: "Of all these here,
+    So worshipful in sacrifice and rite--
+    'Mid gentle beasts and birds--in tasks and toils
+    And blameless duties--is it well?" And they
+    Answered: "We thank you, noble lady, well.
+    Tell us, most beauteous one, thy name, and say
+    What thou desirest. Seeing thee so fair,
+    So worthy, yet so sorrowful, our minds
+    Are lost in wonder. Weep not. Comfort take.
+    Art thou the goddess of the wood? Art thou
+    The Mountain-Yakshi, or, belike, some sprite
+    Which lives under the river? Tell us true,
+    Gentle and faultless form!"
+                                 Whereat reply
+    Thus made she to the Rishis: "None of these
+    Am I, good saints. No goddess of the wood,
+    Nor yet a mountain nor a river sprite;
+    A woman ye behold, most only ones,
+    Whose moving story I will tell you true.
+    The Raja of Vidarbha is my sire,
+    Bhima his name, and--Best of Twice-born!--know
+    My husband is Nishadha's Chief, the famed,
+    The wise and valiant and victorious Prince,
+    The high and lordly Nala; of the gods
+    A steadfast worshipper; of Brahmanas
+    The friend; his people's shield; honored and strong,
+    Truth-speaking, skilled in arms, sagacious, just;
+    Terrible to his foes, fortunate, lord
+    Of many conquered towns; a godlike man,
+    Princeliest of princes--Nala--one that hath
+    A countenance like the full moon's for light,
+    And eyes of lotus. This true offerer
+    Of sacrifices, this close votary
+    Of Vedas and Vedangas, in the war
+    Deadly to enemies, like sun and moon
+    For splendor--by some certain evil ones
+    Being defied to dice, my virtuous Prince
+    Was, by their wicked acts, of realm despoiled--
+    Wealth, jewels, all. I am his woful wife,
+    The Princess Damayanti. Seeking him
+    Through thickets have I roamed, over rough hills,
+    By crag and river and the reedy lake,
+    By marsh and waterfall and jungle-bush,
+    In quest of him--my lord, my warrior,
+    My hero--and still roam, uncomforted.
+    Worshipful brethren! say if he hath come--
+    Nishadha's Chief, my Nala, hitherward
+    Unto your pleasant homes--he, for whose sake
+    I wander in the dismal pathless wood
+    With bears and tigers haunted--terrible!
+    Ah! if I find him not, ere there be passed
+    Many more nights and days, peace will I win;
+    For death shall set my mournful spirit free.
+    What cause have I to live, lacking my Prince?
+    Why should I longer breathe, whose heart is dead
+    With sorrow for my lord?"
+                               To Bhima's child,
+    So in the wood bewailing, made reply
+    Those holy, truthful men: "Beautiful One!
+    The future is for thee; fair will it fall!
+    Our eyes, by long devotions opened, see--
+    Even now--thy lord; thou shalt behold him soon,
+    Nishadha's chief, the famous Nala, strong
+    In battle, loving justice. Yea, this Prince
+    Thou wilt regain, Bhima's sad daughter! freed
+    From troubles, purged of sin; and witness him--
+    With all his gems and glories--governing
+    Nishadha once again, invincible,
+    Joy of his friends and terror of his foes.
+    Yea, Noblest, thou shalt have thy love anew
+    In days to come."
+                      So speaking, from the sight
+    Of Damayanti, at that instant, passed
+    Hermits, with hermitage and holy fires,
+    Evanishing. In wonderment she stood,
+    Gazing bewildered. Then the Princess cried:--
+    "Was it in dream I saw them? Whence befell
+    This unto me? Where are the brethren gone,
+    The ring of huts, the pleasant stream that ran
+    With birds upon its crystal banks, the grove
+    Delightful, with its fruits and flowers?" Long while
+    Pondered and wondered Damayanti there,
+    Her bright smile fled, pale, strengthless, sorrowful;
+    Then to another region of the wood,
+    With sighs, and eyes welling great tears, she passed,
+    Lamenting; till a beauteous tree she spied--
+    The Asoka, best of trees. Fair rose it there
+    Beside the forest, glowing with the flame
+    Of golden and crimson blossoms, and its boughs
+    Full of sweet-singing birds.
+                                 "_Ahovat_--Look!"
+    She cried: "Ah, lovely tree, that wavest here
+    Thy crown of countless, shining, clustering blooms
+    As thou wert woodland king--Asoka tree,
+    Tree called 'the sorrow-ender,' heart's-ease tree!
+    Be what thy name saith--end my sorrow now,
+    Saying, ah, bright Asoka! thou hast seen
+    My Prince, my dauntless Nala; seen that lord
+    Whom Damayanti loves and his foes fear;
+    Seen great Nishadha's Chief, so dear to me,
+    His tender princely skin in rended cloth
+    Scantily clad. Hath he passed wandering
+    Under thy branches, grievously forlorn?
+    Answer, Asoka! 'Sorrow-ender,' speak!
+    That I go sorrowless, O heart's-ease, be
+    Truly heart-easing--ease my heart of pain."
+      Thus, wild with grief, she spake unto the tree,
+    Round and round walking, as to reverence it;
+    And then, unanswered, the sweet lady sped
+    Through wastes more dreadful, passing many a
+    Many still-gliding rillets, many a peak
+    Tree-clad, with beasts and birds of wondrous kind,
+    In dark ravines, and caves, and lonely glooms.
+    These things saw Damayanti, Bhima's child,
+    Seeking her lord.
+                      At last, on the long road,
+    She, whose soft smile was once so beautiful,
+    A caravan encountered. Merchantmen
+    With trampling horses, elephants, and wains,
+    Made passage of a river, running slow
+    In cool, clear waves. The quiet waters gleamed,
+    Shining and wide outspread, between the canes
+    Which bordered it, wherefrom echoed the cries
+    Of fish-hawks, curlews, and red chakravaks,
+    With sounds of leaping fish and water-snakes,
+    And tortoises, amid its shoals and flats
+    Sporting or feeding.
+                         When she spied that throng--
+    Heart-maddened with her anguish, weak and wan,
+    Half clad, bloodless and thin, her long black locks
+    Matted with dust--breathlessly breaks she in
+    Upon them--Nala's wife--so beauteous once,
+    So honored. Seeing her, some fled in fear;
+    Some gazed, speechless with wonder; some called out,
+    Mocking the piteous face by words of scorn;
+    But some (my King!) had pity of her woe,
+    And spake her fair, inquiring: "Who art thou?
+    And whence? And in this grove what seekest thou,
+    To come so wild? Thy mien astonisheth.
+    Art of our kind, or art thou something strange,
+    The spirit of the forest, or the hill,
+    Or river valley? Tell us true; then we
+    Will buy thy favor. If, indeed, thou art
+    Yakshini, Rakshasi, or she-creature
+    Haunting this region, be propitious! Send
+    Our caravan in safety on its path,
+    That we may quickly, by thy fortune, go
+    Homeward, and all fair chances fall to us."
+      Hereby accosted, softly gave response
+    That royal lady--weary for her lord--
+    Answering the leader of the caravan,
+    And those that gathered round, a marvelling throng
+    Of men and boys and elders: "Oh, believe
+    I am as you, of mortal birth, but born
+    A Raja's child, and made a Raja's wife.
+    Him seek I, Chieftain of Nishadha, named
+    Prince Nala--famous, glorious, first in war.
+    If ye know aught of him, my king, my joy,
+    My tiger of the jungle, my lost lord,
+    Quick, tell me, comfort me!"
+                               Then one who led
+    Their line--the merchant Suchi--answering,
+    Spake to the peerless Princess: "Hear me now.
+    I am the captain of this caravan,
+    But nowhere any named by Nala's name
+    Have I, or these, beheld. Of evil beasts
+    The woods were full--cheetahs and bears and cats,
+    Tigers and elephants, bison and boar;
+    Those saw we in the brake on every side,
+    But nowhere nought of human shape, save thee.
+    May Manibhadra have us in his grace--
+    The Lord of Yakshas--as I tell thee truth!"
+      Then sadly spake she to the trader-chief
+    And to his band: "Whither wend ye, I pray?
+    Please ye, acquaint me where this Sartha[23] goes."
+      Replied the captain: "Unto Chedi's realm,
+    Where rules the just Subahu, journey we,
+    To sell our merchandise, daughter of men!"
+      Thus by the chieftain of the band informed,
+    The peerless Princess journeyed with them, still
+    Seeking her lord. And at the first the way
+    Fared through another forest, dark and deep;
+    Afterwards came the traders to a pool
+    Broad, everywhere delightful, odorous
+    With cups of opened lotus, and its shores
+    Green with rich grass, and edged with garden trees--
+    A place of flowers and fruits and singing birds.
+    So cool and clear and peacefully it gleamed,
+    That men and cattle, weary with the march,
+    Clamored to pitch; and, on their chieftain's sign,
+    The pleasant hollow entered they, and camped--
+    All the long caravan--at sunset's hour.
+      There, in the quiet of the middle night,
+    Deep slumbered these; when, sudden on them fell
+    A herd of elephants, thirsting to drink,
+    In rut, the mada[24] oozing from their heads.
+    And when those great beasts spied the caravan,
+    And smelled the tame cows of their kind, they rushed
+    Headlong, and, mad with must, overwhelming all,
+    With onset vast and irresistible.
+    As when from some tall peak into the plain
+    Thunder and smoke and crash the rolling rocks,
+    Through splintered stems and thorns breaking their path,
+    So swept the herd to where, beside the pool,
+    Those sleepers lay; and trampled them to earth
+    Half-risen, helpless, shrieking in the dark,
+    "Haha! the elephants!" Of those unslain,
+    Some in the thickets sought a shelter; some,
+    Yet dazed with sleep, stood panic-stricken, mute;
+    Till here with tusks, and there with trunks, the beasts
+    Gored them, and battered them, and trod them flat
+    Under their monstrous feet. Then might be seen
+    Camels with camel-drivers, perishing,
+    And men flying in fear, who struck at men--
+    Terror and death and clamor everywhere:
+    While some, despairing, cast themselves to earth;
+    And some, in fleeing, fell and died; and some
+    Climbed to the tree-tops. Thus on every side
+    Scattered and ruined was that caravan--
+    Cattle and merchants--by the herd assailed.
+    So hideous was the tumult,-all three worlds
+    Seemed filled with fright; and one was heard to cry:--
+    "The fire is in the tents! fly for your lives!
+    Stay not!" And others cried: "Look where we leave
+    Our treasures trodden down; gather them! Halt!
+    Why run ye, losing ours and yours? Nay, stay!
+    Stand ye, and we will stand!" And then to these
+    One voice cried, "Stand!" another, "Fly! we die!"
+    Answered by those again who shouted, "Stand!
+    Think what we lose, O cowards!"
+                                    While this rout
+    Raged, amid dying groans and sounds of fear,
+    The Princess, waking startled, terror-struck,
+    Saw such a sight as might the boldest daunt--
+    Such scene as those great lovely lotus-eyes
+    Ne'er gazed upon before. Sick with new dread--
+    Her breath suspended 'twixt her lips--she rose
+    And heard, of those surviving, some one moan
+    Amidst his fellows: "From whose evil act
+    Is this the fruit? Hath worship not been paid
+    To mighty Manibhadra? Gave we not
+    The reverence due to Vaishravan, that King
+    Of all the Yakshas? Was not offering made
+    At outset to the spirits which impede?
+    Is this the evil portent of the birds?
+    Were the stars adverse? or what else hath fall'n?"
+      And others said, wailing for friends and goods:--
+    "Who was that woman, with mad eyes, that came
+    Into our camp, ill-favored, hardly cast
+    In mortal mould? By her, be sure, was wrought
+    This direful sorcery. Demon or witch,
+    Yakshi or Rakshasi, or gliding ghost,
+    Or something frightful, was she. Hers this deed
+    Of midnight murders; doubt there can be none.
+    Ah, if we could espy that hateful one,
+    The ruin of our march, the woe-maker,
+    With stones, clods, canes, or clubs, nay, with clenched fists,
+    We'd strike her dead, the murderess of our band!"
+      Trembling the Princess heard those angry words;
+    And--saddened, maddened, shamed--breathless she fled
+    Into the thicket, doubtful if such sin
+    Might not be hers, and with fresh dread distressed.
+    "Aho!" she weeps, "pitiless grows the wrath
+    Of Fate against me. Not one gleam of good
+    Arriveth. Of what fault is this the fruit?
+    I cannot call to mind a wrong I wrought
+    To any--even a little thing--in act
+    Or thought or word; whence then hath come this curse?
+    Belike from ill deeds done in by-gone lives
+    It hath befall'n, and what I suffer now
+    Is payment of old evils undischarged.
+    Grievous the doom--my palace lost, my lord,
+    My children, kindred; I am torn away
+    From home and love and all, to roam accurst
+    In this plague-haunted waste!"
+                                   When broke the day,
+    Those which escaped alive, with grievous cries
+    Departed, mourning for their fellows slain.
+    Each one a kinsman or a friend laments--
+    Father or brother, son, or comrade dear.
+      And Damayanti, hearing, weeps anew,
+    Saying: "What dreadful sin was that I wrought
+    Long, long ago, which, when I chance to meet
+    These wayfarers in the unpeopled wood,
+    Dooms them to perish by the elephants,
+    In my dark destiny enwrapped? No doubt
+    More and more sorrow I shall bear, or bring,
+    For none dies ere his time; this is the lore
+    Of ancient sages; this is why--being glad
+    If I could die--I was not trampled down
+    Under the elephants. There haps to man
+    Nothing unless by destiny. Why else,
+    Seeing that never have I wrought one wrong,
+    From childhood's hours, in thought or word or deed,
+    Hath this woe chanced? May be--meseems it may!--
+    The mighty gods, at my Swayamvara
+    Slighted by me for Nala's dearest sake,
+    Are wroth, and by their dread displeasure thus
+    To loss and loneliness I am consigned!"
+      So--woe-begone and wild--this noble wife,
+    Deserted Damayanti, poured her griefs:
+    And afterwards, with certain Brahmanas
+    Saved from the rout--good men who knew the Veds--
+    Sadly her road she finished, like the moon
+    That goeth clouded in the month of rain.
+    Thus travelling long, the Princess drew at last
+    Nigh to a city, at the evening hour.
+    The dwelling-place it was of Chedi's Chief,
+    The just Subahu. Through its lofty gates
+    Painfully passed she, clad in half a cloth;
+    And as she entered--sorrow-stricken, wan,
+    Foot-weary, stained with mire, with unsmoothed hair,
+    Unbathed, and eyes of madness--those who saw,
+    Wondered and stared, and watched her as she toiled
+    Down the long city street. The children break
+    From play, and--boys with girls--followed her steps,
+    So that she came--a crowd encompassing--
+    Unto the King's door. On the palace roof
+    The mother of the Maharaja paced,
+    And marked the throng, and that sad wayfarer.
+    Then to her nurse spake the queen-mother this:--
+    "Go thou, and bring yon woman unto me!
+    The people trouble her; mournful she walks,
+    Seeming unfriended, yet bears she a mien
+    Made for a king's abode, and, all so wild,
+    Still are her wistful eyes like the great eyes
+    Of Lakshmi's self." So downwards went the nurse,
+    Bidding the rude folk back; and to the roof
+    Of the great palace led that wandering one--
+    Desolate Damayanti--whom the Queen
+    Courteous besought: "Though thou art wan of face,
+    Thou wear'st a noble air, which through thy griefs
+    Shineth as lightning doth behind its cloud.
+    Tell me thy name, and whose thou art, and whence.
+    No lowborn form is thine, albeit thou com'st
+    Wearing no ornaments; and all alone
+    Wanderest--not fearing men--by some spell safe."
+      Hearing which words, the child of Bhima spake
+    Gratefully this: "A woful woman I,
+    And woful wife, but faithful to my vows;
+    High-born, but like a servant, like a slave,
+    Lodging where it may hap, and finding food
+    From the wild roots and fruits wherever night
+    Brings me my resting-place. Yet is my lord
+    A prince noble and great, with countless gifts
+    Endued; and him I followed faithfully
+    As 't were his shadow, till hard fate decreed
+    That he should fall into the rage of dice:--
+    And, worsted in that play, into the wood
+    He fled, clad in one cloth, frenzied and lone.
+    And I his steps attended in the wood,
+    Comforting him, my husband. But it chanced,
+    Hungry and desperate, he lost his cloth;
+    And I--one garment bearing--followed still
+    My unclad lord, despairing, reasonless,
+    Through many a weary night not slumbering.
+    But when, at length, a little while I slept,
+    My Prince abandoned me, rending away
+    Half of my garment, leaving there his wife,
+    Who never wrought him wrong. That lord I seek
+    By day and night, with heart and soul on fire--
+    Seek, but still find not; though he is to me
+    Brighter than light which gleams from lotus-cups,
+    Divine as are the immortals, dear as breath,
+    The master of my life, my pride, my joy!"
+      Whom, grieving so, her sweet eyes blind with tears,
+    Gently addressed Subahu's mother--sad
+    To hear as she to tell. "Stay with us here,
+    Thou ill-starred lady. Great the friendliness
+    I have for thee. The people of our court
+    Shall thy lost husband seek; or, it may be,
+    He too will wander hither of himself
+    By devious paths: yea, mournful one, thy lord
+    Thou wilt regain, abiding with us here."
+      And Damayanti, bowing, answered thus
+    Unto the Queen: "I will abide with thee,
+    O mother of illustrious sons, if so
+    They feed me not on orts, nor seek from me
+    To wash the feet of comers, nor that I
+    Be set to speak with any stranger-men
+    Before the curtain; and, if any man
+    Sue me, that he be punished; and if twice,
+    Then that he die, guilty of infamy.
+    This is my earnest prayer; but Brahmanas
+    Who seek my husband, or bear news of him,
+    Such will I speak with. If it may be thus,
+    Gladly would I abide, great lady, here;
+    If otherwise, it is not on my mind
+    To sojourn longer."
+                            Very tenderly
+    Quoth the queen-mother: "All that thou dost ask
+    We will ordain. The gods reward thy love,
+    Which hath such honor!" Comforting her so,
+    To the king's daughter, young Sunanda, spake
+    The Maharajni: "See, Sunanda, here
+    Clad as a handmaid, but in form divine,
+    One of thy years, gentle and true. Be friends;
+    Take and give pleasure in glad company
+    Each with the other, keeping happy hearts."
+      So went Sunanda joyous to her house,
+    Leading with loving hand the Princess in,
+    The maidens of the court accompanying.
+
+
+Part II.
+
+    Not long (O Maharaja!) was Nala fled
+    From Damayanti, when, in midmost gloom
+    Of the thick wood a flaming fire he spied,
+    And from the fire's heart heard proceed a voice
+    Of one imperilled, crying many times:--
+    "Haste hither, Punyashloka, Nala, haste!"
+    "Fear not," the Prince replied; "I come!" and sprang
+    Across the burning bushes, where he saw
+    A snake--a king of serpents--lying curled
+    In a great ring, which reared its dancing crest
+    Saluting, and in human accents spoke:--
+    "Maharaja, kindly lord, I am the snake
+    Karkotaka; by me was once betrayed
+    The famous Rishi Narada; his wrath
+    Doomed me, thou Chief of men! to bear this spell--
+    'Coil thy false folds,' said he, 'forever here,
+    A serpent, motionless upon this spot,
+    Till it shall chance that Nala passeth by
+    And bears thee hence; then only from my curse
+    Canst thou be freed,' And prisoned by that curse
+    I have no power to stir, though the wood burns;
+    Nay, not a coil! good fellowship I'll show
+    If thou wilt succor me. I'll be to thee
+    A faithful friend, as no snake ever yet.
+    Lift me, and quickly from the flames bear forth:
+    For thee I shall grow light." Thereat shrank up
+    That monstrous reptile to a finger's length;
+    And grasping this, unto a place secure
+    From burning, Nala bore it, where the air
+    Breathed freshly, and the fire's black path was stayed.
+      Then made the Prince to lay the serpent down,
+    But yet again it speaks: "Nishadha's Lord,
+    Grasp me and slowly go, counting thy steps;
+    For, Raja, thou shalt have good fortune hence."
+    So Nala slowly went, counting his steps;
+    And when the tenth pace came, the serpent turned
+    And bit the Prince. No sooner pierced that tooth
+    Than all the likeness of Nishadha changed;
+    And, wonder-struck, he gazed upon himself;
+    While from the dust he saw the snake arise
+    A man, and, speaking as Karkotaka,
+    Comfort him thus:--
+                        "Thou art by me transformed
+    That no man know thee: and that evil one
+    (Possessing, and undoing thee, with grief)
+    Shall so within thee by my venom smart,
+    Shall through thy blood so ache, that--till he quit--
+    He shall endure the woe he did impart.
+    Thus by my potent spell, most noble Prince!
+    (Who sufferest too long) thou wilt be freed
+    From him that haunts thee. Fear no more the wood,
+    Thou tiger of all princes! fear thou not
+    Horned nor fanged beasts, nor any enemies,
+    Though they be Brahmans! safe thou goest now,
+    Guarded from grief and hurt--Chieftain of men!
+    By this kind poison. In the fields of war
+    Henceforth the victory always falls to thee;
+    Go joyous, therefore, Prince; give thyself forth
+    For 'Vahuka, the charioteer:' repair
+    To Rituparna's city, who is skilled
+    In play, and dwells in fair Ayodhya.
+    Wend thou, Nishadha! thither; he will teach
+    Great subtlety in numbers unto thee,
+    Exchanging this for thine own matchless gift
+    Of taming horses. From the lordly line
+    Descended of Ikshvaku, glad and kind
+    The King will be; and thou, learning of him
+    His deepest act of dice, wilt win back all,
+    And clasp again thy Princess. Therefore waste
+    No thought on woes. I tell thee truth! thy realm
+    Thou shalt regain; and when the time is come
+    That thou hast need to put thine own form on,
+    Call me to mind, O Prince, and tie this cloth
+    Around thy body. Wearing it, thy shape
+    Thou shalt resume."
+                       Therewith the serpent gave
+    A magic twofold robe, not wove on earth,
+    Which (O thou son of Kuru!) Nala took;
+    And so the snake, transformed, vanished away.
+      The great snake being gone, Nishadha's Chief
+    Set forth, and on the tenth day entered in
+    At Rituparna's town; there he besought
+    The presence of the Raja, and spake thus:--
+    "I am the chariot-driver, Vahuka.
+    There is not on this earth another man
+    Hath gifts like mine to tame and guide the steed;
+    Moreover, thou mayest use me in nice needs
+    And dangerous, where kings lack faithful hearts.
+    Specially skilful I am in dressing meats;
+    And whatso other duties may befall,
+    Though they be weighty, I shall execute,
+    If, Rituparna, thou wilt take me in."
+      "I take thee," quoth the King. "Dwell here with me.
+    Such service as thou knowest, render us.
+    'Tis, Vahuka, forever in my heart
+    To have my steeds the swiftest; be thy task
+    To train me horses like the wind for speed;
+    My charioteer I make thee, and thy wage
+    Ten thousand gold suvernas. Thou wilt have
+    For fellows, Varshneya and Jivala;
+    With those abiding, lodge thou happy here."
+      So entertained and honored of the King,
+    In Rituparna's city Nala dwelled,
+    Lodging with Varshneya and Jivala.
+      There sojourned he (my Raja!), thinking still
+    Of sweet Vidarbha's Princess day by day;
+    And sunset after sunset one sad strain
+    He sang: "Where resteth she that roamed the wood
+    Hungry and parched and worn, but always true?
+    Doth she remember yet her faultful lord?
+    Ah, who is near her now?" So it befell
+    Jivala heard him ever sighing thus,
+    And questioned: "Who is she thou dost lament?
+    Say, Vahuka! fain would I know her name.
+    Long life be thine; but tell me who he is,
+    The faultful man that was the lady's lord."
+      And Nala answered him: "There lives a man,
+    Evil and rash, that had a noble wife.
+    False to his word he was; and thus it fell
+    That somewhere, for some reason (ask not me!),
+    He quitted her, this rash one. And--so wrenched
+    Apart from hers--his spirit, bad and sad,
+    Muses and moans, with grief's slow fire consumed
+    Night-time and day-time. Thence it is he sings
+    At every sunset this unchanging verse,
+    An outcast on the earth, by hazard led
+    Hither and thither. Such a man thou seest
+    Woful, unworthy, holding in his heart
+    Always that sin. I was that lady's lord,
+    Whom she did follow through the dreadful wood,
+    Living by me abandoned, at this hour;
+    If yet, in truth, she lives--youthful, alone,
+    Unpractised in the ways, not meriting
+    Fortunes so hard. Ah, if indeed she lives,
+    Who roamed the thick and boundless forest, full
+    Of prowling beasts--roamed it, my Jivala,
+    Unguarded by her guilty lord--forsook,
+    Betrayed, good friend!"
+                           Thus did Nishadha grieve,
+    Calling sweet Damayanti to his mind.
+    So tarried he within the Raja's house,
+    And no man knew his place of sojourning.
+      While, stripped of state, the Prince and Princess thus
+    Were sunk to servitude, Bhima made quest,
+    Sending his Brahmans forth to search for them
+    With straight commands, and for their road-money
+    Liberal store. "Seek everywhere," said he
+    Unto the twice-born, "Nala--everywhere
+    My daughter Damayanti. Whoso comes
+    Successful in this quest, discovering her--
+    With lost Nishadha's Lord--and bringing them,
+    A thousand cows to that man will I give,
+    And village-lands whence shall be revenue
+    As great as from a city. If so be
+    Ye cannot bring me Nala and my child,
+    To him that learns their refuge I will give
+    The thousand cows."
+                       Thereby rejoiced, they went,
+    Those Brahmans, hither and thither, up and down,
+    Into all regions, rajaships, and towns,
+    Seeking Nishadha's Chieftain, and his wife.
+    But Nala nowhere found they; nowhere found
+    Sweet Damayanti, Bhima's beauteous child--
+      Until, straying to pleasant Chedipur,
+    One day a twice-born came, Sudeva named,
+    And entered it; and, spying round about
+    (Upon a feast-day by the King proclaimed),
+    He saw forth-passing through the palace gate
+    A woman--Bhima's daughter--side by side
+    With young Sunanda. Little praise had now
+    That beauty which in old days shone so bright;
+    Marred with much grief it was, like sunlight dimmed
+    By fold on fold of wreathed and creeping mists.
+    But when Sudeva marked the great dark eyes--
+    Lustreless though they were, and she so worn,
+    So listless--"Lo, the Princess!" whispered he;--
+    "'Tis the King's daughter," quoth he to himself;
+    And thus mused on:--
+                        "Yea! as I used to see,
+    'Tis she! no other woman hath such grace!
+    My task is done; I gaze on that one form,
+    Which is like Lakshmi's, whom all worlds adore.
+    I see the bosoms, rounded, dark, and smooth,
+    As they were sister-moons; the soft moon-face
+    Which with its queenly light makes all things bright
+    Where it doth gleam; the large deep lotus-eyes,
+    That, like to Rati's own, the Queen of Love,
+    Beam, each a lovelit star, filling the worlds
+    With longing. Ah, fair lotus-flower, plucked up
+    By Fate's hard grasp from far Vidarbha's pool,
+    How is thy cup muddied and slimed to-day!
+    Ah, moon, how is thy night like to the eclipse
+    When Rahu swallows up the silver round!
+    Ah, tearless eyes, reddened with weeping him,
+    How are ye like to gentle streams run dry!
+    Ah, lake of lilies, where grief's elephant
+    Hath swung his trunk, and turned the crystal black,
+    And scattered all the blue and crimson cups,
+    And frightened off the birds! Ah, lily-cup,
+    Tender, and delicately leaved, and reared
+    To blossom in a palace built of gems,
+    How dost thou wither here, wrenched by the root,
+    Sun-scorched and faded! Noblest, loveliest, best!--
+    Who bear'st no gems, yet so becomest them--
+    How like the new moon's silver horn thou art,
+    When envious black clouds blot it! Lost for thee
+    Are love, home, children, friends, and kinsmen; lost
+    All joy of that fair body thou dost wear
+    Only that it may last to find thy lord.
+    Truly a woman's ornament is this:--
+    The husband is her jewel; lacking him
+    She hath none, though she shines with priceless pearls;
+    Piteous must be her state! And, torn from her,
+    Doth Nala cling to life; or, day by day,
+    Waste with long yearning? Oh, as I behold
+    Those black locks, and those eyes--dark and long-shaped
+    As are the hundred-petalled lotus-leaves--
+    And watch her joyless who deserves all joy,
+    My heart is sore! When will she overpass
+    The river of this sorrow, and come safe
+    Unto its farther shore? When will she meet
+    Her lord, as moon and moon-star in the sky
+    Mingle? For, as I think, in winning her,
+    Nala would win his happy days again,
+    And--albeit banished now--have back his lands.
+    Alike in years and graces, and alike
+    In lordly race these were: no bride could seem
+    Worthy Nishadha, if it were not she;
+    Nor husband worthy of Vidarbha's Pride,
+    Save it were Nala. It is meet I bring
+    Comfort forthwith to yon despairing one,
+    The consort of the just and noble Prince,
+    For whom I see her heart-sick. I will go
+    And speak good tidings to this moon-faced Queen,
+    Who once knew nought of sorrows, but to-day
+    Stands yonder, plunged heart-deep in woful thought."
+      So, all those signs and marks considering
+    Which stamped her Bhima's child, Sudeva drew
+    Nearer, and said: "Vidarbhi, Nala's wife,
+    I am the Brahmana Sudeva, friend
+    Unto my lord, thy brother, and I come
+    By royal Bhima's mandate, seeking thee.
+    That Maharaja, thy father, dwells in health;
+    Thy mother and thy house are well; and well--
+    With promise of long years--thy little ones,
+    Sister and brother. Yet, for thy sake, Queen,
+    Thy kindred sit as men with spirit gone;
+    In search of thee a hundred twice-born rove
+    Over all lands."
+                     But (O King Yudhisthir!)
+    Hardly one word she heard before she broke
+    With question after question on the man,
+    Asking of this dear friend and that and this;
+    All mingled with quick tears, and tender sighs,
+    And hungry gazing on her brother's friend,
+    Sudeva--best of Brahmanas--come there.
+    Which soon Sunanda marked, watching them speak
+    Apart, and Damayanti all in tears.
+    Then came she to her mother, saying: "See,
+    The handmaid thou didst give me talks below
+    With one who is a Brahman, all her words
+    Watered with weeping; if thou wilt, demand
+    What this man knows."
+                         Therewith swept forth amazed
+    The mother of the Raja, and beheld
+    How Nala's wife spake with the Brahmana.
+    Whom straight she bade them summon; and, being brought,
+    In this wise questioned: "Knowest thou whose wife,
+    Whose daughter, this one is; and how she left
+    Her kin; and wherefore, being heavenly-eyed
+    And noble-mannered, she hath wandered here?
+    I am full fain to hear this; tell me all,
+    No whit withholding; answer faithfully--
+    Who is our slave-girl with the goddess gait?"
+      The Brahmana Sudeva, so addressed,
+    Seating himself at ease, unto the Queen
+    Told Damayanti's story, how all fell.
+      Sudeva said: "There reigns in majesty
+    King Bhima at Vidarbha; and of him
+    The Princess Damayanti here is child;
+    And Virasena's son, Nala, is Lord
+    Over Nishadha, praised-in-song and wise;
+    And of that Prince this lady is the wife.
+    In play his brother worsted Nala--stripped
+    Of lands and wealth the Prince; who fled his realm,
+    Wandering with Damayanti--where, none knew.
+    In quest of Damayanti we have roamed
+    The earth's face o'er, until I found her here
+    In thy son's house, the King's--the very same,
+    Since like to her for grace no woman lives
+    Of all fair women. Where her eyebrows meet
+    A pretty mole, born with her, should be seen
+    A little lotus-bud--not visible
+    By reason of the dust of toil which clouds
+    Her face and veils its moon-like beauty--that
+    The wondrous Maker on the rare work stamped
+    To be His Mark. But as the waxing moon
+    Goes thin and darkling for awhile, then rounds
+    The crescent's rims with splendors, so this Queen
+    Hath lost not queenliness. Being now obscured,
+    Soiled with the grime of chores, unbeautified,
+    She shows true gold. The fire which trieth gold
+    Denoteth less itself by instant heat
+    Than Damayanti by her goodlihood.
+    As first sight knew I her. She bears that mole."
+      Whilst yet Sudeva spake (O King of men!),
+    Sunanda from the slave's front washed away
+    The gathered dust, and forth that mark appeared
+    'Twixt Damayanti's brows, as when clouds break,
+    And in the sky the moon, the night-maker,
+    Glitters to view. Seeing the spot awhile,
+    Sunanda and the mother of the King
+    Gazed voiceless; then they clasped her neck and wept
+    Rejoicing, till the Queen, staying her tears,
+    Exclaimed: "My sister's daughter, dear! thou art,
+    By this same mark. Thy mother and myself
+    Were sisters by one father--he that rules
+    Dasarna, King Sudaman. She was given
+    To Bhima, and to Virabahu I.
+    Once at Dasarna, in my father's house,
+    I saw thee, newly born. Thy race and mine,
+    Princess, are one: henceforward, therefore, here
+    As I am, Damayanti, shalt thou be."
+      With gladdened heart did Damayanti bend
+    Before her mother's sister, answering thus:--
+    "Peaceful and thankful dwelled I here with thee,
+    Being unknown, my every need supplied,
+    My life and honor by thy succor safe,
+    Yet, Maharajni, even than this dear home
+    One would be dearer: 'tis so many days
+    Since we were parted. Suffer me to go
+    Where those my tender little ones were led;
+    So long--poor babes!--of me and of their sire
+    Bereft. If, lady, thou dost think to show
+    Kindness to me, this is my wish: to wend
+    Unto Vidarbha swiftly; wilt thou bid
+    They bear me thither?"
+                           Was no sooner heard
+    That fond desire, than the queen-mother gave
+    Willing command; and soon an ample troop,
+    The King consenting, gathered for her guard.
+    So was she sent upon a palanquin,
+    With soldiers, pole-bearers, and meat and drink,
+    And garments as befitted--happier--home.
+      Thus to Vidarbha came its Pride again,
+    By no long road; and joyously her kin
+    Brought the sweet Princess in, and welcomed her.
+    In peace and safety all her house she found;
+    Her children well;--father and mother, friends.
+    The gods she worshipped, and to Brahmanas
+    Due reverence made, and whatso else was meet
+    That Damayanti did, regal in all.
+    To wise Sudeva fell the thousand cows
+    By Bhima granted, with the village-lands,
+    And goodly gifts beside.
+                             But when there passed
+    One night of rest within the palace-walls,
+    The wistful Princess to her mother said:--
+    "If thou wouldst have me live, I tell thee true,
+    Dear mother, it must be by bringing back
+    My Nala, my own lord; and only so."
+      When this she spake, right sorrowful became
+    The Rani, weeping silently, nor gave
+    One word of answer; and the palace-girls,
+    Seeing this grief, sat round them, weeping too,
+    And crying: "Haha! where is gone her lord?"
+    And loud the lamentation was of all.
+      Afterwards to the Maharaja his Queen
+    Told what was said: "Lord! all uncomforted
+    Thy daughter Damayanti weeps and grieves,
+    Lacking her husband. Even to me she spake
+    Before our damsels, laying shame aside:--
+    'Find Nala; let the people of the court
+    Strive day and night to learn where Nala is.'"
+
+    Then Bhima, hearing, called his Brahmanas
+    Patient and wise, and issued hest to go
+    Into all regions, seeking for the Prince.
+    But first, by mandate of the Maharaja,
+    To Damayanti all those twice-born came,
+    Saying: "Now we depart!" Then Bhima's child
+    Gave ordinance: "To whatsoever lands
+    Ye wend, say this--wherever gather men,
+    Say this--in every place these verses speak:--
+
+      Whither art thou departed, cruel lover,
+        Who stole the half of thy beloved's cloth,
+      And left her to awaken, and discover
+        The wrong thou wroughtest to the love of both?
+      She, as thou didst command, a sad watch keepeth,
+        With woful heart wearing the rended dress.
+      Prince, hear her cry who thus forever weepeth;
+        Be mindful, hero; comfort her distress!
+
+    And, furthermore," the Princess said, "since fire
+    Leaps into flame when the wind fans the spark,
+    Be this too spoken, that his heart may burn:--
+
+      By every husband nourished and protected
+        Should every wife be. Think upon the wood!
+      Why these thy duties hast thou so neglected,
+        Prince, that was called noble and true and good?
+      Art then become compassionate no longer,
+        Shunning, perchance, my fortune's broken way?
+      Ah, husband, love is most! let love be stronger;
+        _Ahimsa paro dharma_,[25] thou didst say.
+
+    These verses while ye speak," quoth the Princess,
+    "Should any man make answer, note him well
+    In any place; and who he is, and where
+    He dwells. And if one listens to these words
+    Intently, and shall so reply to them,
+    Good Brahmans, hold ye fast his speech, and bring,
+    Breath by breath, all of it unto me here;
+    But so that he shall know not whence ye speak,
+    If ye go back. Do this unweariedly;
+    And if one answer--be he high or low,
+    Wealthy or poor--learn all he was and is,
+    And what he would."
+                        Hereby enjoined, they went,
+    Those twice-born, into all the lands to seek
+    Prince Nala in his loneliness. Through towns,
+    Cities and villages, hamlets and camps,
+    By shepherds' huts and hermits' caves, they passed,
+    Searching for Nala; yet they found him not;
+    Albeit in every region (O my king!)
+    The words of Damayanti, as she taught,
+    Spake they again in hearing of all men.
+      Suddenly--after many days--there came
+    A Brahman back, Parnada he was called,
+    Who unto Bhima's child in this wise spake:--
+    "O Damayanti, seeking Nala still,
+    Ayodhya's streets I entered, where I saw
+    The Maharaja; he--noble-minded one!--
+    Heard me thy verses say, as thou hadst said;
+    Great Rituparna heard those very words,
+    Excellent Princess; but he answered nought;
+    And no man answered, out of all the throng
+    Ofttimes addressed. But when I had my leave
+    And was withdrawn, a man accosted me
+    Privately--one of Rituparna's train,
+    Vahuka named, the Raja's charioteer
+    (Something misshapen, with a shrunken arm,
+    But skilled in driving, very dexterous
+    In cookery and sweetmeats). He--with groans,
+    And tears which rolled and rolled--asked of my health,
+    And then these verses spake full wistfully:--
+
+      'Even when their loss is largest, noble ladies
+        Keep the true treasure of their hearts unspent,
+      Attaining heaven through faith, which undismayed is
+        By wrong, unaltered by abandonment;
+      Such an one guards with virtue's golden shield
+        Her name from harm; pious and pure and tender;
+      And, though her lord forsook her, will not yield
+        To wrath, even against that vile offender--
+      Even against the ruined, rash, ungrateful,
+        Faithless, fond Prince from whom the birds did steal
+      His only cloth, whom now a penance fateful
+        Dooms to sad days, that dark-eyed will not feel
+      Anger; for if she saw him she should see
+        A man consumed with grief and loss and shame;
+      Ill or well lodged, ever in misery,
+        Her unthroned lord, a slave without a name.'
+
+    Such words I heard him speak," Parnada said,
+    "And, hastening thence, I tell them to thee, here;
+    Thou knowest; thou wilt judge; make the King know."
+    But Damayanti listened, with great eyes
+    Welling quick tears, while thus Parnada spake,
+    And afterwards crept secretly and said
+    Unto her mother: "Breathe no word hereof,
+    Dear mother, to the King, but let me speak
+    With wise Sudeva in thy presence here;
+    Nothing should Bhima know of what I plan,
+    But, if thou lovest me, by thee and me
+    This shall be wrought. As I was safely led
+    By good Sudeva home, so let him go--
+    With not less happy fortune--to bring back,
+    Ere many days, my Nala; let him seek
+    Ayodhya, mother dear, and fetch my Prince!"
+      But first Parnada, resting from his road--
+    That best of twice-borns--did the Princess thank
+    With honorable words and gifts: "If home
+    My Nala cometh, Brahman!" so she spake,
+    "Great guerdon will I give. Thou hast well done
+    For me herein--- better than any man;
+    Helping me find again my wandered lord."
+    To which fair words made soft reply, and prayers
+    For "peace and fortune," that high-minded one,
+    And so passed home, his service being wrought.
+      Next to Sudeva spake the sad Princess
+    This (O my King!), her mother standing by:--
+    "Good Brahman, to Ayodhya's city go.
+    Say in the ears of Raja Rituparna,
+    As though thou cam'st a simple traveller,
+    'The daughter of King Bhima once again
+    Maketh to hold her high Swayamvara.
+    The kings and princes from all lands repair
+    Thither; the time draws nigh; to-morrow's dawn
+    Shall bring the day. If thou wouldst be of it,
+    Speed quickly, conquering King! at sunsetting
+    Another lord she chooseth for herself;
+    Since whether Nala liveth or is dead,
+    None knoweth.'"
+                    These the words which he should say;
+    And, learning them, he sped, and thither came--
+    That Brahmana Sudeva--and he spake
+    To Maharaja Rituparna so.
+      Now when the Raja Rituparna heard
+    Sudeva's words, quoth he to Vahuka
+    Full pleasantly: "Much mind I have to go
+    Where Damayanti holds Swayamvara,
+    If to Vidarbha, in a single day,
+    Thou deemest we might drive, my charioteer!"
+      Of Nala, by his Raja thus addressed,
+    Torn was the heart with anguish; for he thought:--
+    "Can Damayanti purpose this? Could grief
+    So change her? Is it not some fine device
+    For my sake schemed? Or doth my Princess seek,
+    All holy as she was, this guilty joy,
+    Being so wronged of me, her rash weak lord?
+    Frail is a woman's heart, and my fault great!
+    Thus might she do it, being far from home,
+    Bereft of friends, desolate with long woes
+    Of love for me--my slender-waisted one!
+    Yet no, no, no! she would not--she that is
+    My children's mother! Be it false or true,
+    Best shall I know in going; therefore now
+    The will of Rituparna must I serve."
+      Thus pondering in his mind, the troubled Prince
+    With joined palms meekly to his master said:--
+    "I shall thy hest accomplish! I can drive
+    In one day, Raja, to Vidarbha's gates."
+      Then in the royal stables--steed by steed,
+    Stallions and mares, Vahuka scanned them all,
+    By Rituparna prayed quickly to choose.
+    Slowly he picked four coursers, under-fleshed,
+    But big of bone and sinew; fetlocked well
+    For journeying; high-bred, heavy-framed; of blood
+    To match the best, yet gentle; blemish-free;
+    Broad in the jaw, with scarlet nostrils spread;
+    Bearing the _Avarthas_, the ten true marks--
+    Reared on the banks of Indus, swift as wind.
+    Which, when the Raja looked upon, he cried,
+    Half-wrathful: "What thing thinkest thou to do?
+    Wilt thou betray me? How should sorry beasts,
+    Lean-ribbed and ragged, take us all that way,
+    The long road we must swiftly travel hence?"
+      Vahuka answered: "See on all these four
+    The ten sure marks: one curl upon each crest,
+    Two on the cheeks, two upon either flank,
+    Two on the breast, and on each crupper one.[26]
+    These to Vidarbha--doubt it not--will go;
+    Yet, Raja, if thou wilt have others, speak;
+    And I shall yoke them."
+                            Rituparna said:--
+    "I know thou hast deep skill in stable-craft;
+    Yoke therefore such four coursers as thou wilt,
+    But quickly!"
+                  Thus those horses, two by two,
+    High-mettled, spare, and strong, Prince Nala put
+    Under the bars; and when the car was hitched,
+    And eagerly the Raja made to mount,
+    At sign the coursers bent their knees, and lay
+    Along the earth. Then Nala (O my King!),
+    With kindly voice cheering the gaunt bright steeds,
+    Loosed them, and grasped the reins, and bade ascend
+    Varshneya: so he started, headlong, forth.
+      At cry of Vahuka the four steeds sprung
+    Into the air, as they would fly with him;
+    And when the Raja felt them, fleet as wind,
+    Whirling along, mute sat he and amazed;
+    And much Varshneya mused to hear and see
+    The thundering of those wheels; the fiery four
+    So lightly held; Vahuka's matchless art.
+    "Is Matali, who driveth Indra's car,
+    Our charioteer? for all the marks of him
+    Are here! or Salihotra can this be,
+    The god of horses, knowing all their ways,
+    Who here in mortal form his greatness hides?
+    Or is it--can it be--Nala the Prince,
+    Nala the steed-tamer?" Thus pondered he:--
+    "Whatever Nala knew this one doth know.
+    Alike the mastery seems of both; alike
+    I judge their years. If this man be not he,
+    Two Nalas are there in the world for skill.
+    They say there wander mighty powers on earth
+    In strange disguises, who, divinely sprung,
+    Veil themselves from us under human mould;
+    Bewilderment it brings me, this his shape
+    Misshappen--from conclusion that alone
+    Withholds me; yet I wist not what to think,
+    In age and manner like--and so unlike
+    In form! Else Vahuka I must have deemed
+    Nala, with Nala's gifts."
+                              So in his heart,
+    Varshneya, watching, wondered--being himself
+    The second charioteer. But Rituparna
+    Sat joyous with the speed, delightedly
+    Marking the driving of the Prince: the eyes
+    Attent; the hand so firm upon the reins;
+    The skill so quiet, wise, and masterful;
+    Great joy the Maharaja had to see.
+      By stream and mountain, woodland-path and pool,
+    Swiftly, like birds that skim in air, they sped;
+    Till, as the chariot plunged, the Raja saw
+    His shoulder-mantle falling to the ground;
+    And--loath to lose the robe--albeit so pressed,
+    To Nala cried he, "Let me take it up;
+    Check the swift horses, wondrous charioteer;
+    And bid Varshneya light, and fetch my cloth,"
+    But Nala answered: "Far it lies behind;
+    A yojana already we have passed;
+    We cannot turn again to pick it up."
+      A little onward Riturparna saw
+    Within the wood a tall Myrobolan
+    Heavy with fruit; hereat, eager he cried:--
+    "Now, Vahuka, my skill thou mayest behold
+    In the Arithmic. All arts no man knows;
+    Each hath his wisdom, but in one man's wit
+    Is perfect gift of one thing, and not more.
+    From yonder tree how many leaves and fruits,
+    Think'st thou, lie fall'n there upon the earth?
+    Just one above a thousand of the leaves,
+    And one above a hundred of the fruits;
+    And on those two limbs hang, of dancing leaves,
+    Five crores exact; and shouldst thou pluck yon boughs
+    Together with their shoots, on those twain boughs
+    Swing twice a thousand nuts and ninety-five!"
+      Vahuka checked the chariot wonderingly,
+    And answered: "Imperceptible to me
+    Is what thou boastest, slayer of thy foes!
+    But I to proof will put it, hewing down
+    The tree, and, having counted, I shall know.
+    Before thine eyes the branches twain I'll lop:
+    How prove thee, Maharaja, otherwise,
+    Whether this be or be not? I will count
+    One by one--fruits and leaves--before thee, King;
+    Varshneya, for a space, can rein the steeds."
+      To him replied the Raja: "Time is none
+    Now to delay."
+                    Vahuka answered quick
+    (His own set purpose serving): "Stay this space,
+    Or by thyself drive on! The road is good,
+    The son of Vrishni will be charioteer!"
+      On that the Raja answered soothingly:--
+    "There is not in the earth another man
+    That hath thy skill; and by thy skill I look
+    To reach Vidarbha, O thou steed-tamer!
+    Thou art my trust; make thou not hindrance now!
+    Yet would I suffer, too, what thou dost ask,
+    If thou couldst surely reach Vidarbha's gate
+    Before yon sun hath sunk."
+                               Nala replied:--
+    "When I have counted those vibhitak boughs,
+    Vidarbha I will reach; now keep thy word."
+      Ill pleased, the Raja said: "Halt then, and count!
+    Take one bough from the branch which I shall show,
+    And tell its fruits, and satisfy thy soul."
+      So leaping from the car--eager he shore
+    The boughs, and counted; and all wonder-struck
+    To Rituparna spake: "Lo, as thou saidst
+    So many fruits there be upon this bough!
+    Exceeding marvellous is this thy gift,
+    I burn to know such learning, how it comes."
+      Answered the Raja, for his journey fain:--
+    "My mind is quick with numbers, skilled to count;
+    I have the science."
+                         "Give it me, dear Lord!"
+    Vahuka cried: "teach me, I pray, this lore,
+    And take from me my skill in horse-taming."
+      Quoth Rituparna--impatient to proceed--
+    Yet of such skill desirous: "Be it so!
+    As thou hast prayed, receive my secret art,
+    Exchanging with me here thy mastery
+    Of horses."
+                Thereupon did he impart
+    His rules of numbers, taking Nala's too.
+      But wonderful! So soon as Nala knew
+    That hidden gift, the accursed Kali leapt
+    Forth from his breast, the evil spirit's mouth
+    Spewing the poison of Karkotaka
+    Even as he issued. From the afflicted Prince
+    That bitter plague of Kali passed away;
+    And for a space Prince Nala lost himself,
+    Rent by the agony. But when he saw
+    The evil one take visible shape again--
+    Free from the serpent's poison--Nishadha's Lord
+    Had thought to curse him then; but Kali stood
+    With clasped palms trembling, and besought the Prince,
+    Saying: "Thy wrath restrain, Sovereign of men!
+    I will repay thee well. Thy virtuous wife,
+    Indrasen's angered mother, laid her ban
+    Upon me when thou didst forsake her; since
+    Within thee have I dwelled in anguish sore,
+    Tortured and tossed and burning, night and day,
+    With venom from the great snake's fang, which passed
+    Into me by thy blood. Be pitiful!
+    I take my refuge in thy mercy! Hear
+    My promise, Prince! Wherever men henceforth
+    Shall name thee before people, praising thee,
+    This shall protect them from the dread of me;
+    Nala shall guard from Kali, if so now
+    Thou spare to curse me, seeking grace of thee."
+      Thus supplicated, Nala stayed his wrath,
+    Acceding; and the direful Kali fled
+    Into the wounded tree, possessing it.
+    But of no eyes, save Nala's, was he seen,
+    Nor heard of any other; and the Prince,
+    His sorrows shaking off, when Kali passed,
+    After that numbering of the leaves, in joy
+    Unspeakable, and glowing with new hope,
+    Mounted the car again, and urged his steeds.
+    But from that hour the tall Myrobolan,
+    Possessed by Kali, stood there, sear and dead.
+      Then onward, onward, speeding like the birds,
+    Those coursers flew; and fast and faster still
+    The glad Prince cheered them forward, all elate:
+    And proudly rode the Raja towards the walls
+    Of high Vidarbha. Thus did journey down
+    Exultant Nala, free of trouble now,
+    Quit of the evil spell, but bearing still
+    His form misshapen, and the shrunken limb.
+      At sunset in Vidarbha (O great King!)
+    The watchers on the walls proclaimed, "There comes
+    The Raja Rituparna!" Bhima bade
+    Open the gates; and thus they entered in,
+    Making all quarters of the city shake
+    With rattling of the chariot-wheels. But when
+    The horses of Prince Nala heard that sound,
+    For joy they neighed, as when of old their lord
+    Drew nigh. And Damayanti, in her bower,
+    Far off that rattling of the chariot heard,
+    As when at time of rains is heard the voice
+    Of clouds low thundering; and her bosom thrilled
+    At echo of that ringing sound. It came
+    Loud and more loud, like Nala's, when of old,
+    Gripping the reins, he cheered his mares along.
+    It seemed like Nala to the Princess then--
+    That clatter of the trampling of the hoofs;
+    It seemed like Nala to the stabled steeds:
+    Upon the palace-roof the peacocks heard
+    And screamed; the elephants within their stalls
+    Heard it and trumpeted; the coursers, tied,
+    Snorted for joy to hear that leaping car;
+      Peacocks and elephants and cattle stalled
+    All called and clamored with uplifted heads,
+    As wild things do at noise of coming rain.
+      Then to herself the Princess spake: "This car,
+    The rolling of it, echoing all around,
+    Gladdens my heart. It must be Nala comes,
+    My King of men! If I see not, this day,
+    My Prince that hath the bright and moon-like face,
+    My hero of unnumbered gifts, my lord,
+    Ah, I shall die! If this day fall I not
+    Into his opening arms--at last, at last--
+    And feel his close embrace, oh, beyond doubt,
+    I cannot live! If--ending all--to-day
+    Nishadha cometh not, with this deep sound
+    Like far-off thunder, then to-night I'll leap
+    Into the golden, flickering, fiery flames!
+    If now, now, now, my lion draws not nigh,
+    My warrior-love, like the wild elephant,
+    My Prince of princes--I shall surely die!
+    Nought call I now to mind he said or did
+    That was not rightly said and justly done.
+    No idle word he spake, even in free speech;
+    Patient and lordly; generous to bestow
+    Beyond all givers; scorning to be base,
+    Yea, even in secret--such Nishadha was.
+    Alas! when, day and night, I think of him,
+    How is my heart consumed, reft of its joy!"
+      So meditating, like one torn by thoughts,
+    She mounted to the palace-roof to see;
+    And thence, in the mid-court, the car beheld
+    Arriving. Rituparna and Vahuka
+    She saw, with Vrishni's son, descend and loose
+    The panting horses, wheeling back the car.
+      Then Rituparna, alighting, sought the King,
+    Bhima the Maharaja, far-renowned--
+    Whom Bhima with fair courtesies received;
+    Since well he deemed such breathless visit made
+    With deep cause, knowing not the women's plots.
+    "_Swagatam!"_ cried he; "what hath brought thee, Prince?"
+    For nothing wist he that the Raja came
+    Suitor of Damayanti. Questioned so,
+    This Raja Rituparna, wise and brave,
+    Seeing no kings nor princes in the court,
+    Nor noise of the Swayamvara, nor crowd
+    Of Brahmans gathering--weighing all those things,
+    Answered in this wise: "I am come, great Lord,
+    To make thee salutations!" But the King
+    Laughed in his beard at Rituparna's word--
+    That this of many weary yojanas
+    Should be the mark. "_Ahoswid_! Hath he passed
+    Through twenty towns," thought he, "and hither flown
+    To bid good-morrow? Nay, it is not that.
+    Good! I shall know it when he bids me know."
+      Thereat, with friendly speech his noble guest
+    The King to rest dismissed. "Repose thyself,"
+    He said; "the road was long; weary thou art."
+    And Rituparna, with sentences of grace
+    Replying to this graciousness, was led
+    By slaves to the allotted sleeping-room;
+    And after Rituparna, Varshneya went.
+    Vahuka, left alone, the chariot ran
+    Into its shed, and from the foamy steeds
+    Unbuckled all the harness, thong by thong,
+    Speaking soft words to them; then sat him down,
+    Alone, forgotten, on the driving-seat.
+      But Damayanti, seeing Rituparna,
+    And Vrishni's son, and him called Vahuka,
+    Spake sorrowful: "Whose was the thunder, then,
+    Of that fleet car? It seemed like Nala's own;
+    Yet here I see no Nala! Hath yon man
+    My lord's art learned, or th'other one, that thus
+    Their car should thunder as when Nala comes?
+    Could Rituparna drive as Nala doth,
+    So that those chariot-wheels should sound like his?"
+    And, after having pondered (O my King!),
+    The beauteous Princess sent her handmaiden
+    To Vahuka, that she might question him.
+      "Go, Keshini," the Princess said; "inquire
+    Who is that man upon the driving-seat,
+    Misshapen, with the shrunken arm. Approach
+    Composedly, question him winningly
+    With greetings kind, and bid him answer thee
+    According to the truth. I feel at heart
+    A doubt--a hope--that this, perchance, may be
+    My Lord and Prince; there is some new-born joy
+    Fluttering within my breast. Accost him, girl;
+    And, ere thou partest, what Parnada said,
+    Say thou, and hear him answer, blameless one,
+    And bring it on thy lips!"
+                                Then went the maid
+    Demurely, and accosted Vahuka,
+    While Damayanti watched them from the roof.
+      "_Kushalam te bravimi_--health and peace
+    I wish thee!" said she. "Wilt thou answer true
+    What Damayanti asks? She sends to ask
+    Whence set ye forth, and wherefore are ye come
+    Hither? Vidarbha's Princess fain would know."
+      "'Twas told my Raja," Vahuka replied,
+    "That Damayanti for the second turn
+    Holds her Swayamvara: the Brahman's word
+    Was, "This shall be to-morrow." So he sped,
+    Hearing that news, with steeds which in one day
+    Fly fifty yojanas, swift as the winds,
+    Exceeding fleet. His charioteer am I."
+      "Who, then," Keshini asked, "is he that rode
+    The third? whence cometh he, and what his race?
+    And thou thyself whence sprung? and tell me why
+    Thou servest thus?"
+                          Then Vahuka replied:--
+    "Varshneya is the third who rode with us,
+    The famous charioteer of Nala he:
+    When thy Prince fled, he went to Koshala
+    And took our service. I in horse-taming
+    And dressing meat have skill; so am I made
+    King Rituparna's driver and his cook."
+      "Knoweth Varshneya, then, where Nala fled?"
+    Inquired the maid; "and did he tell thee this,
+    Or what spake he?"
+                      "Of that unhappy Prince
+    He brought the children hither, and then went
+    Even where he would, of Nala wotting nought;
+    Nor wotteth any man, fair damsel! more.
+    Hidden from mortal eyes Nishadha lives,
+    Wandering the world, his very body changed.
+    Of Nala only Nala's own heart knows,
+    And by no sign doth he bewray himself."
+      Keshini said: "That Brahman who did wend
+    First to Ayodhya bore a verse to say
+    Over and over, everywhere--strange words,
+    Wove by a woman's wit. Listen to these:--
+
+      'Whither art thou departed, cruel lover,
+        Who stole the half of thy beloved's cloth,
+      And left her to awaken and discover
+        The wrong thou wroughtest to the love of both?
+      She, as thou didst command, a sad watch keepeth,
+        With woful heart wearing the rended dress.
+      Prince, hear her cry who thus forever weepeth;
+        Be mindful, hero; comfort her distress!'
+
+    What was it thou didst utter, hearing this?
+    Some gentle speech! Say it again--the Queen,
+    My peerless mistress, fain would know from me.
+    Nay, on thy faith, when thou didst hear that man,
+    What was it thou replied? She would know."
+      (Descendant of the Kurus!) Nala's heart,
+    While so the maid spoke, well-nigh burst with grief,
+    And from his eyes fast flowed the rolling tears;
+    But, mastering his anguish, holding down
+    The passion of his pain, with voice which strove
+    To speak through sobs, the Prince repeated this:--
+
+      "Even against the ruined, rash, ungrateful,
+        Faithless, fond Prince, from whom the birds did steal
+      His only cloth, whom now a penance fateful
+        Dooms to sad days, that dark-eyed will not feel
+      Anger; for if she saw him she should see
+        A man consumed with grief and loss and shame;
+      Ill or well lodged, ever in misery,
+        Her unthroned lord, a slave without a name."
+
+      Speaking these verses, woful Nala moaned,
+    And, overcome by thought, restrained no more
+    His trickling tears; fast broke they forth (O King!).
+    But Keshini, returning, told his words
+    To Damayanti, and the grief of him.
+      When Damayanti heard, sore-troubled still,
+    Yet in her heart supposing him her Prince,
+    Again she spake: "Go, Kashini, and watch
+    Whatever this man doeth; near him stand,
+    Holding thy peace, and mark the ways of him
+    And all his acts, going and coming; note
+    If aught there be of strange in any deed.
+    Let them not give him fire, my girl--not though
+    This hindereth sore; nor water, though he ask
+    Even with beseeching. Afterwards observe,
+    And bring me what befalls, and every sign
+    Of earthly or unearthly power he shows;
+    And whatsoever else Vahuka doth,
+    See it, and say."
+                    Thereon Keshini sped,
+    Obeying Damayanti and--at hand--
+    Whatever by that horse-tamer was wrought,
+    The damsel watched, and all his ways; and came
+    Back to the Princess, unto whom she told
+    Each thing Vahuka did, as it befell,
+    And what the signs were, and the wondrous works
+    Of earthly and unearthly gifts in him.
+      "_Subhe_!"[27] quoth she, "the man is magical,
+    But high and holy mannered; never yet
+    Saw I another such, nor heard of him.
+    Passing the low door of the inner court,
+    Where one must stoop, he did not bow his head,
+    But as he came the lintel lifted up
+    And gave him space. Bhima the King had sent
+    Many and diverse meats for Rituparna,
+    Of beast and bird and fish--great store of food--
+    The which to cleanse some chatties stood hard by,
+    All empty; yet he did but look on them,
+    Wishful, and lo! the water brimmed the pots.
+    Then, having washed the meats, he hastened forth
+    In quest of fire, and, holding towards the sun
+    A knot of withered grass, the bright flame blazed
+    Instant amidst it. Wonderstruck was I
+    This miracle to see, and hither ran
+    With other strangest marvels to impart:--
+    For, Princess, when he touched the blazing grass
+    He was not burned, and water flows for him
+    At will, or ceases flowing; and this, too,
+    The strangest thing of all, did I behold--
+    He took some faded leaves and flowers up,
+    And idly handled them; but while his hands
+    Toyed with them, lo! they blossomed forth again
+    With lovelier life than ever, and fresh scent,
+    Straight on their stalks. These marvels have I seen,
+    And fly back now to tell thee, mistress dear!"
+      But when she knew such wonders of the man,
+    More certainly she deemed those acts and gifts
+    Betokened Nala; and so-minded, full
+    Of trust to find her lord in Vahuka,
+    With happier tears and softening voice she said
+    To Keshini: "Speed yet again, my girl;
+    And, while he wots not, from the kitchen take
+    Meat he hath dressed, and bring it here to me."
+    So went the maid, and, waiting secretly,
+    Broke from the mess a morsel, hot and spiced,
+    And, bearing it with faithful swiftness, gave
+    To Damayanti. She (O Kuru King!)--
+    That knew so well the dishes dressed by him--
+    Touched, tasted it, and, laughing--weeping--cried,
+    Beside herself with joy: "Yes, yes; 'tis he!
+    That charioteer is Nala!" then, a-pant,
+    Even while she washed her mouth, she bade the maid
+    Go with the children twain to Vahuka;
+    Who, when he saw his little Indrasen
+    And Indrasena, started up, and ran,
+    And caught, and folded them upon his breast;
+    Holding them there, his darlings, each as fair
+    As children of the gods. Then, quite undone
+    With love and yearning, loudly sobbed the Prince.
+      Until, perceiving Keshini, who watched,
+    Shamed to be known, he set his children down,
+    And said: "In sooth, good friend, this lovely pair
+    So like mine own are, that at seeing them
+    I am surprised into these foolish tears.
+    Thou comest here too often; men will think
+    Thee light, or me; remember, we are here,
+    Strangers and guests, girl! Go thy ways in peace!"
+      But seeing that great trouble of his soul,
+    Lightly came Keshini, and pictured all
+    To Damayanti. She, burning to know
+    If truly this were Nala, bade the girl
+    Seek the Queen's presence, saying thus for her:--
+    "Mother! long watching Vahuka, I deem
+    The charioteer is Nala. One doubt lives--
+    His altered form. I must myself have speech
+    With Vahuka; thou, therefore, bid him come,
+    Or suffer me to seek him. Be this done
+    Forthwith, good mother!--whether known or not
+    Unto the Maharaja."
+                        When she heard,
+    The Queen told Bhima what the Princess prayed,
+    Who gave consent; and having this good leave
+    From father and from mother (O my King!),
+    Command was sent that Vahuka be brought
+    Where the court ladies lodged.
+                                  So met those twain;
+    And when Prince Nala's gaze fell on his wife,
+    He stood with beating heart and tearful eyes.
+    And when sweet Damayanti looked on him,
+    She could not speak for anguish of keen joy
+    To have him close; but sat there, mute and wan,
+    Wearing a sad-hued cloth, her lustrous hair
+    Falling unbanded, and the mourning-mark
+    Stamped in gray ashes on her lovely brow.
+    And, when she found a voice, these were the words
+    That came from her: "Didst ever, Vahuka--
+    If Vahuka thy name be, as thou say'st--
+    Know one of noble nature, honorable,
+    Who in the wild woods left his wife asleep--
+    His innocent, fond wife--weary and worn?
+    Know'st thou the man. I'll say his name to thee;
+    'Twas Nala, Raja Nala! Ah, and when
+    In any thoughtless hour had I once wrought
+    The smallest wrong, that he should leave me so,
+    There in the wood, by slumber overcome?
+    Before the gods I chose him for my lord,
+    The gods themselves rejecting; tell me how
+    This Prince could so abandon, in her need,
+    His true, his loving wife, she who did bear
+    His babes--abandon her to whom he swore--
+    My hand clasped, in the sight of all the gods,
+    And Agni's self--'Thy true lord I will be!'
+    Thou saidst it!--where is now that promise, fled?"
+      While thus she spake (O Victor of thy foes!),
+    Fast from her eyes the woe-sprung waters ran.
+    And Nala, seeing those night-black, loving eyes
+    Reddened with weeping, seeing her falling tears;
+    Broke forth: "Ah! that I lost my throne and realm
+    In dicing, was not done by fault of mine;
+    'T was Kali wrought it; Kali, O my wife,
+    Drove me to leave thee. Therefore, long ago
+    That evil one was stricken by the curse
+    Which thou didst utter, wandering in the wood,
+    Desolate, night and day, grieving for me.
+    Possessing me he dwelt; but, cursed by thee,
+    Tortured he dwelt, consuming with thy words
+    In fierce and fiercer pain, as when is piled
+    Brand upon burning brand. But he is gone;
+    Patience and penance have o'ermastered him.
+    Princess, the end is reached of our long woes.
+    That evil one being fled, freeing my will,
+    See, I am here; and wherefore would I come,
+    Fairest, except for thee? Yet, answer this:--
+    How should a wife, right-minded to her lord--
+    Her own and lawful lord--compass to choose
+    Another love, as thou, that tremblest, didst?
+    Thy messengers over all regions ran,
+    By the King's name proclaiming: 'Bhima's child
+    A second husband chooseth for herself,
+    Whomso she will--as pleaseth--being free,'
+    Those shameless tidings brought the Raja here
+    At headlong speed--and me!"
+                                 Tenderly smiled
+    Damayanti through her tears, with quivering lips,
+    And joined palms, answering her aggrieved Prince:--
+    "Judgest thou me guilty of such a sin?
+    When for thy sake I put the gods aside--
+    Thee did I choose, Nishadha, my one lord.
+    In quest of thee did all those Brahmans range
+    In all ten regions, telling all one tale
+    Taught them by me; and so Parnada came
+    To Koshala, where Rituparna dwells,
+    And found thee in his house, and spake to thee
+    Those words, and had thy gentle answer back.
+    Mine the device was, Prince, to bring thee quick;
+    For well I wist no man in all this world
+    Could in one day the fleetest coursers urge
+    So many yojanas, save thou, dear Prince!
+    I touch thy feet, and tell thee this in truth;
+    And true it is that never any wrong
+    Against thee, even in fancy, have I dreamed.
+    Witness for me, as I am loyal and pure,
+    The ever-shifting, all-beholding Air,
+    Who wanders o'er the earth; let him withdraw
+    My breath and slay me, if I sinned in aught!
+    Witness for me, yon golden Sun who goes
+    With bright eye over us; let him withhold
+    Warm life and kill me, if I sinned in aught!
+    Witness for me the white Moon, whose pale spell
+    Lies on all flesh and spirit; let that orb
+    Deny me peace and end me, if I sinned!
+    These be the watchers and the testifiers,
+    The three chief gods that rule the three wide worlds;
+    I cry unto them; let them speak for me;
+    And thou shalt hear them answer for my faith,
+    Or once again, this day, abandon me."
+      Then Vayu showed--the all-enfolding Air--
+    And spake: "Not one wrong hath she wrought thee, Prince,
+    I tell thee sooth. The treasure of her truth
+    Faultless and undefiled she hath kept
+    By us regarded, and sustained by us,
+    These many days. Her tender plot it was,
+    Planned for thy sake, which brought thee; since who else
+    Could in one day drive threescore yojanas?
+    Nala, thou hast thy noble wife again;
+    Thou, Damayanti, hast thy Nala back.
+    Away with doubting; take her to thy breast,
+    Thrice happy Prince!"
+                          And while God Vayu spake,
+    Look! there showered flowers down out of the sky[28]
+    Upon them; and the drums of heaven beat
+    Beautiful music, and a gentle wind,
+    Fragrant, propitious, floated, kissing them.
+    But Nala, when he saw these things befall--
+    Wonderful, gracious--when he heard that voice
+    Called the great snake to memory:--whereupon
+    His proper self returned. Bhima's fair child
+    Divinely sounding (Lord of Bharat's line!)--
+    Yielded all doubt of his delightful Love.
+    Then cast he round about his neck the cloth--
+    Unstained by earth, enchanted--and (O King!)
+    Saw her dear lord his beauteous form resume.
+    "Ah, Nala! Nala!" cried she, while her arms
+    Clasped him and clung; and Nala to his heart
+    Pressed that bright lady, glowing, as of old,
+    With princely majesty. Their children twain
+    Next he caressed; while she--at happy peace--
+    Her beautiful glad face laid on his breast,
+    Sighing with too much joy. And Nala stood
+    A great space silent, gazing on her face,
+    Sorrow-stamped yet, her long, deep-lidded eyes,
+    Her melting smile--himself 'twixt joy and woe.
+      Afterwards, all that story of the Prince,
+    And all of Damayanti, Bhima's Queen
+    Told to the Maharaja joyously.
+    And Bhima said: "To-morrow will I see--
+    When Nala hath his needful offerings made--
+    Our daughter and this wandering lord well knit."
+      But all that night they sat, hand clasped in hand,
+    Rejoicing, and relating what befell
+    In the wild wood, and of the woful times.
+      That night being spent, Prince Nala in his state
+    Led forth Vidarbha's Pride before the court.
+    And Bhima--in an hour found fortunate--
+    Re-wed those married lovers. Dutifully
+    Nala paid homage to the Maharaja,
+    And reverently did Damayanti bow
+    Before her father. He the Prince received
+    With grace and gladness, as a son restored,
+    Making fair welcome, and with words of praise
+    Exalting Damayanti, tried and true;
+    Which in all dignity Prince Nala took,
+    Returning, as was meet, words honorable.
+    Therewith unto the city spread the noise
+    Of that rejoicing. All the townspeople,
+    Learning of Nala joyously returned,
+    Made all their quarters gay with float of flags,
+    Flutter of cloths, and garlands; sprinkled free
+    The King's-ways with fresh water, and the cups
+    Of fragrant flowers; and hung long wreaths of flowers.
+    From door to door the white street-fronts before;
+    And decked each temple-porch, and went about
+    The altar-gods.
+    And afterwards, in Bhima's royal house
+    Serenely dwelled the Princess and the Prince,
+    Each making for the other peaceful joy.
+    So in the fourth year Nala was rejoined
+    To Damayanti, comforted and free,
+    Restful, attained, tasting delights again.
+    Also the glad Princess, gaining her lord,
+    Laid sorrows by, and blossomed forth anew,
+    As doth the laughing earth when the rain falls,
+    And brings her unseen, waiting wonders forth
+    Of blade and flower and fruit. The ache was gone,
+    The loneliness and load. Heart-full of ease,
+    Lovelier she grew and brighter, like the moon
+    Mounting at midnight in the cloudless blue.
+                    When Rituparna heard
+    How Vahuka is Nala in disguise,
+    And of the meeting, right rejoiced at heart
+    That Raja grew. And, being softly prayed
+    By Nala favorable thought, the King
+    Made royal and gentle answer, with like grace
+    By Nala met. To whom spake Rituparna:--
+    "Joy go with thee and her, happily joined.
+    But say, Nishadha, wrought I any jot
+    Wrongful to thee, whilst sojourning unknown
+    Within my walls? If any word or deed,
+    Purposed or purposeless, hath vexed thee, friend,
+    For one and all thy pardon grant to me!"
+      And Nala answered: "Never act or word,
+    The smallest, Raja, lingers to excuse!
+    If this were otherwise, thy slave was I,
+    And might not question, but must pardon thee.
+    Yet good to me thou wert, princely and just,
+    And kind thou art; and friendly from this time
+    Deign thou to be. Happily was I lodged,
+    Well-tended, well-befriended in thy house;
+    In mine own palace never better stead.
+    The skill in steeds which pleased thee, that is mine,
+    And, Raja, I will give it all to thee,
+    If thou art minded."
+                         So Nishadha gave
+    All his great gift in horses to the King,
+    Who learned each rule approved, and ordinance;
+    And, having all this knowledge, gave in turn
+    His deepest lore of numbers and the dice
+    To Nala, afterwards departing home
+    To his own place, another charioteer
+    Driving his steeds; and, Rituparna gone,
+    Not long did Nala dwell in Bhima's town.
+      When one moon he had tarried, taking leave,
+    Nishadha to his city started forth
+    With chosen train. A shining car he drove;
+    And elephants sixteen, and fifty horse,
+    And footmen thirty-score came in the rear.
+    Swiftly did Nala journey, making earth
+    Quake 'neath his flying car; and wrathfully
+    With quick steps entered he his palace doors.
+    The son of Virasena, Nala, stood
+    Once more before that gamester Pushkara!
+    Spake he: "Play yet again; much wealth is mine,
+    And that, and all I have--yea, my Princess--
+    Set I for stakes: set thou this realm, and throw!
+    My mind is fixed a second chance to try,
+    Where, Pushkara, we will play for all or none.
+    Who wins his throne and treasures from a prince,
+    Must stand the hazard of the counter-cast--
+    This is the accepted law. If thou dost blench,
+    The next game we will play is 'life or death,'
+    In chariot-fight; when, or of thee or me
+    One shall lie satisfied: 'Descended realms,
+    By whatsoever means, are to be sought,'
+    The sages say, 'by whatsoever won.'
+    Choose, therefore, Pushkara, which way of these
+    Shall please thee; either meet me with the dice,
+    Or with thy bow confront me in the field."
+      When Pushkara this heard, lightly he smiled,
+    Concluding victory sure; and to the Prince
+    Answered, exulting: "_Dishtya_! hast thou gained
+    Stakes for a counter-game, Nishadha, now?
+    _Dishtya_! shall I have my hard-won prize,
+    Sweet Damayanti? _Dishtya_! didst thou come
+    In kissing-reach again of thy fair wife?
+    Soon, in thy new gold splendid, she shall shine
+    Before all men beside me, as in heaven
+    On Sakra waits the loveliest Apsara.
+    See, now, I thought on thee, I looked for thee,
+    Ever and ever, Prince. There is no joy
+    Like casting in the game with such as thee.
+    And when to-day I win thy blameless one--
+    The smooth-limbed Damayanti--then shall be
+    What was to be: and I can rest content,
+    For always in my heart her beauty burns."
+      Listening the idle talk that babbler poured,
+    Angry Prince Nala fain had lopped away
+    His head with vengeful _khudga;_[29] but, unmoved,
+    Albeit the wrath blazed in his bloodshot eyes,
+    He made reply: "Play! mock me not with jests;
+    Thou wilt not jest when I have cast with thee!"
+      So was the game set, and the Princes threw
+    Nala and Pushkara, and--the numbers named--
+    By Nala was the hazard gained: he swept
+    His brother's stake, gems, treasure, kingdom, off;
+    At one stroke all that mighty venture won.
+      Then quoth the conquering Prince to Pushkara,
+    Scornfully smiling: "Mine is now once more
+    Nishadha's throne; mine is the realm again,
+    Its curse plucked forth; Vidarbha's glory thou,
+    Outcast, shalt ne'er so much as look upon!
+    Fool! who to-day becom'st her bond and slave.
+    Not by thy gifts that evil stroke was wrought
+    Wherefrom I fled before; 'twas Kali's spell--
+    Albeit thou knew'st nought, fool--overmastered me;
+    Yet will I visit not in wrathful wise
+    My wrong on thee; live as thou wilt; I grant
+    Wherewith to live, and set apart henceforth
+    Thy proper goods and substance, and fit food.
+    Nay, doubt not I shall show thee favor, too,
+    And be in friendship with thee, if thou wilt,
+    Who art my brother. Peace abide with thee!"
+      Thus all-victorious Nala comforted
+    His brother, and embraced him, sending him
+    In honor to his town; and Pushkara--
+    Gently entreated--to Nishadha spake,
+    With folded palms and humbled face, these words:--
+    "Unending be thy glory. May thy bliss
+    Last and increase for twice five thousand years,
+    Who grantest me wherewith to live, just Lord!
+    And where to dwell." Thereafter, well bested,
+    Pushkara sojourned with the Prince one moon;
+    So to his town departed--heart-content--
+    With slaves and foot-soldiers and followers,
+    Gay as a rising sun (O Bharat's glory!).
+    Thus sent he Pushkara, rich and safe, away.
+    Then, with flags and drums and jewels, robed and royally arrayed,
+    Nala into fair Nishadha entry high and dazzling made;
+    At the gates the Raja, halting, spake his people words of love;
+    Gathered were they from the city, gathered from the field and grove;
+    From the mountain and the maidan, all a-thrill with joy to see
+    Nala come to guard his children. "Happy now our days will be,"
+    Said the townsfolk, said the elders, said the villagers, "O King!"
+    Standing all with palms upfolded: "Peace and fortune thou wilt bring
+    To thy city, to thy country! Boundless welcome do we give,
+    As the gods in heaven to Indra, when with them he comes to live."
+    After, when the show was ended, and the city, calm and glad,
+    Rest from tumult of rejoicing and rich flood of feasting had,
+    Girt with shining squadrons, Nala fetched his pearl of women home.
+    Like a queen did Damayanti back unto her palace come,
+    By the Maharaja Bhima, by that mighty monarch sent
+    Royally, with countless blessings, to her kingdom, in content.
+    There, beside his peerless Princess, and his children, bore he sway,
+    Godlike, even as Indra ruling 'mid the bliss of Nandana.[30]
+    Bore he sway--my noble Nala--princeliest of all lords--who reign
+    In the lands of Jambudwipa;[31] winning power and fame again;
+    Ruling well his realm reconquered, like a just and perfect king,
+    All the appointed gifts bestowing, all the rites remembering.
+
+
+[22] Jhillikas are the large wood-crickets
+
+[23] A caravan.
+
+[24] This is a secretion which flows by a small orifice from the
+elephant's temples at certain seasons. It is sweet-smelling, and
+constantly alluded to in Hindoo poetry.
+
+[25] "Gentleness is chief of virtues."
+
+[26] These "curls" are the "Arvathas," or marks of good blood and
+high-breeding.
+
+[27] "O Beautiful One!"
+
+[28] This raining down of heavenly flowers on auspicious occasions is a
+frequent incident in ancient Indian poetry.
+
+[29] A short; broad-bladed sword.
+
+[30] Nandana is the Paradise of Indra.
+
+[31] Ancient name of India: "The Land of the Rose-apple Tree."
+
+
+
+
+SELECTIONS FROM THE RAMAYANA
+
+BY
+
+VALMIKI
+
+
+[_Metrical translation by R.T.H. Griffiths_]
+
+
+INTRODUCTION
+
+
+The ideas of the human family are few, as is apparent from the study of
+the literature of widely different nations. Thus the "Ramayana" ranks in
+Hindoo with the "Iliad" and the "Odyssey" in Greek literature. The
+character of Rama corresponds with that of Menelaus, for both the
+European and the Asiatic heroes have had their wives carried off from
+them--although Sita, the bride of Rama, is chaste as an icicle from
+Diana's temple, while Helen is the infamous type of wanton wives,
+ancient and modern. The Hindoo Lanka is Troy, and Ayodhya is Sparta. The
+material civilization of the cities in the Hindoo epic is more luxurious
+and gorgeous than that which Homer attributes to Greece in the heroic
+age. Such splendor and refinement as invests social life at Lanka and
+Ayodhya never appear amid the severe simplicity of Argos or Troy. The
+moral tone seems perhaps higher in India than in Greece during the
+periods described in their several epics--at least as far as mutual love
+and forbearance go--and the ideas of marriage and conjugal fidelity are
+equally exalted.
+
+As to the literary quality of the Hindoo epic in comparison with Homer's
+work, we are at once impressed with the immense superiority of the Greek
+poem in artistic proportion, point, and precision. The Hindoo poet
+flounders along, amid a maze of prolix description and wearisome simile.
+Trifles are amplified and repeated, and the whole poem resembles a wild
+forest abounding in rich tropical vegetation, palms and flowers, but
+without paths, roads, or limits. Or rather, we are reminded of one of
+the highly painted and richly decorated idols of India, with their many
+heads and many hands: but when we turn to the Greek epic we stand before
+a statue of pure outline, flawless proportions, and more than human
+beauty.
+
+It is difficult to fix the date of the "Ramayana." Scholars generally
+agree that it belongs to the third century before Christ, in its
+original form, but that some recent portions were added even during the
+Christian era. It is reckoned as one of the sacred books, and the study
+of it is supposed to bring forgiveness of sin, and prosperity. Its
+author is thought to have been the famous poet Valmiki, but the work has
+evidently been rehandled several times, and there are three versions of
+the poems still extant. The poem consists of twenty-four thousand
+verses, and the story of it--now overlaid as it is with extravagant and
+fabulous accretions--is evidently founded on fact. The scene of the poem
+is laid in the city of Ayodhya, the modern Oudh, which is described in
+glowing colors as a place of health, beauty, and prosperity--
+
+    "In by-gone ages built and planned
+    By sainted Manu's princely hand."
+
+In the splendid palace of the Rajah, at Oudh, lives Dasaratha, mourning
+in childlessness. He is one of the princes descended from the sun, and
+his line now threatens to become extinct. He determines to appeal to the
+Gods by the Asva-medha, the great sacrifice in which a horse is the
+victim. The rites accordingly are performed with unparalleled
+magnificence, and, at the close of the ceremony, the high priest
+declares to the king--
+
+    "Four sons, O Monarch, shall be thine,
+    Upholders of the royal line."
+
+Among the offspring duly granted to Dasaratha is Rama, who is a typical
+Hindoo of the heroic type. His fair wife, Sita, is carried off by the
+demon Ravana, who had assumed the form of a humble priest, or ascetic,
+in order to gain access to her. He carries her in his chariot to Lanka,
+the fair city built on an island of the sea. By the assistance of a
+large army of monkeys, Rama marches against Lanka, and when they stand
+helpless--for the water separates them from Ceylon--he then invokes the
+goddess of the sea, as Achilles did Thetis, and she comes in radiant
+beauty, telling them how to bridge the waves. The monkeys bring timber
+and stones, the bridge is built, Lanka reached, and the battle begins.
+Indra sends his own chariot down from heaven to Rama, who mounts it, and
+vanquishes Ravana in single combat, upon which Sita is restored to her
+husband. E.W.
+
+
+
+
+THE RAMAYANA
+
+INVOCATION
+
+
+    Praise to Valmiki, bird of charming song,
+    Who mounts on Poesy's sublimest spray,
+    And sweetly sings with accent clear and strong
+    Rama, aye Rama, in his deathless lay.
+
+    Where breathes the man can listen to the strain
+    That flows in music from Valmiki's tongue,
+    Nor feel his feet the path of bliss attain
+    When Rama's glory by the saint is sung?
+
+    The stream Ramayan leaves its sacred fount
+    The whole wide world from sin and stain to free.
+    The Prince of Hermits is the parent mount,
+    The lordly Rama is the darling sea.
+
+    Glory to him whose fame is ever bright!
+    Glory to him, Prachet's holy son!
+    Whose pure lips quaff with ever-new delight
+    The nectar-sea of deeds by Rama done.
+
+    Hail, arch-ascetic, pious, good, and kind!
+    Hail, Saint Valmiki, lord of every lore!
+    Hail, holy Hermit, calm and pure of mind!
+    Hail, First of Bards, Valmiki, hail once more!
+
+
+
+
+BOOK I
+
+CANTO I
+
+NARAD
+
+_Om_.
+
+    To sainted Narad, prince of those
+    Whose lore in words of wisdom flows,
+    Whose constant care and chief delight
+    Were Scripture and ascetic rite,
+    The good Valmiki, first and best
+    Of hermit saints, these words addressed:--
+    "In all this world, I pray thee, who
+    Is virtuous, heroic, true?
+    Firm in his vows, of grateful mind,
+    To every creature good and kind?
+    Bounteous, and holy, just, and wise,
+    Alone most fair to all men's eyes?
+    Devoid of envy, firm, and sage,
+    Whose tranquil soul ne'er yields to rage?
+    Whom, when his warrior wrath is high,
+    Do Gods embattled fear and fly?
+    Whose noble might and gentle skill
+    The triple world can guard from ill?
+    Who is the best of princes, he
+    Who loves his people's good to see?
+    The store of bliss, the living mine
+    Where brightest joys and virtues shine?
+    Queen Fortune's best and dearest friend,
+    Whose steps her choicest gifts attend?
+    Who may with Sun and Moon compare,
+    With Indra, Vishnu, Fire, and Air?
+    Grant, Saint divine, the boon I ask,
+    For thee, I ween, an easy task,
+    To whom the power is given to know
+    If such a man breathe here below."
+
+    Then Narad, clear before whose eye
+    The present, past, and future lie,
+    Made ready answer: "Hermit, where
+    Are graces found so high and rare?
+    Yet listen, and my tongue shall tell
+    In whom alone these virtues dwell.
+    From old Ikshvaku's line he came,
+    Known to the world by Rama's name:--
+    With soul subdued, a chief of might,
+    In Scripture versed, in glory bright.
+    His steps in virtue's paths are bent,
+    Obedient, pure, and eloquent.
+    In each emprise he wins success,
+    And dying foes his power confess.
+    Tall and broad-shouldered, strong of limb,
+    Fortune has set her mark on him.
+    Graced with a conch-shell's triple line,
+    His throat displays the auspicious sign.
+    High destiny is clear impressed
+    On massive jaw and ample chest.
+    His mighty shafts he truly aims,
+    And foemen in the battle tames.
+    Deep in the muscle, scarcely shown,
+    Embedded lies his collar-bone.
+    His lordly steps are firm and free,
+    His strong arms reach below his knee;
+    All fairest graces join to deck
+    His head, his brow, his stately neck,
+    And limbs in fair proportion set:--
+    The manliest form e'er fashioned yet.
+    Graced with each high imperial mark,
+    His skin is soft and lustrous dark.
+    Large are his eyes that sweetly shine
+    With majesty almost divine.
+    His plighted word he ne'er forgets;
+    On erring sense a watch he sets.
+    By nature wise, his teacher's skill
+    Has trained him to subdue his will.
+    Good, resolute and pure, and strong,
+    He guards mankind from scathe and wrong,
+    And lends his aid, and ne'er in vain,
+    The cause of justice to maintain.
+    Well has he studied o'er and o'er
+    The Vedas and their kindred lore.
+    Well skilled is he the bow to draw,
+    Well trained in arts and versed in law;
+    High-souled and meet for happy fate,
+    Most tender and compassionate;
+    The noblest of all lordly givers,
+    Whom good men follow, as the rivers
+    Follow the King of Floods, the sea:--
+    So liberal, so just is he.
+    The joy of Queen Kausalya's heart,
+    In every virtue he has part;
+    Firm as Himalaya's snowy steep,
+    Unfathomed like the mighty deep;
+    The peer of Vishnu's power and might,
+    And lovely as the Lord of Night;
+    Patient as Earth, but, roused to ire,
+    Fierce as the world-destroying fire;
+    In bounty like the Lord of Gold,
+    And Justice' self in human mould.
+    With him, his best and eldest son,
+    By all his princely virtues won
+    King Dasaratha willed to share
+    His kingdom as the Regent Heir.
+    But when Kaikeyi, youngest queen,
+    With eyes of envious hate had seen
+    The solemn pomp and regal state
+    Prepared the prince to consecrate,
+    She bade the hapless king bestow
+    Two gifts he promised long ago,
+    That Rama to the woods should flee,
+    And that her child the heir should be.
+
+    By chains of duty firmly tied,
+    The wretched King perforce complied.
+    Rama, to please Kaikeyi went
+    Obedient forth, to banishment.
+    Then Lakshman's truth was nobly shown,
+    Then were his love and courage known,
+    When for his brother's sake he dared
+    All perils, and his exile shared.
+    And Sita, Rama's darling wife,
+    Loved even as he loved his life,
+    Whom happy marks combined to bless,
+    A miracle of loveliness,
+    Of Janak's royal lineage sprung,
+    Most excellent of women, clung
+    To her dear lord, like Rohini
+    Rejoicing with the Moon to be.
+    The King and people, sad of mood,
+    The hero's car awhile pursued.
+    But when Prince Rama lighted down
+    At Sringavera's pleasant town,
+    Where Ganga's holy waters flow,
+    He bade his driver turn and go.
+    Guha, Nishadas' King, he met,
+    And on the farther bank was set.
+    Then on from wood to wood they strayed,
+    O'er many a stream, through constant shade,
+    As Bharadvaja bade them, till
+    They came to Chitrakuta's hill.
+    And Rama there, with Lakshman's aid,
+    A pleasant little cottage made,
+    And spent his days with Sita, dressed
+    In coat of bark and deerskin vest.
+    And Chitrakuta grew to be
+    As bright with those illustrious three
+    As Meru's sacred peaks that shine
+    With glory, when the Gods recline
+    Beneath them: Siva's self between
+    The Lord of Gold and Beauty's Queen.
+
+    The aged King for Rama pined,
+    And for the skies the earth resigned.
+    Bharat, his son, refused to reign,
+    Though urged by all the twice-born train.
+    Forth to the woods he fared to meet
+    His brother, fell before his feet,
+    And cried "Thy claim all men allow:--
+    O come, our lord and King be thou."
+    But Rama nobly chose to be
+    Observant of his sire's decree.
+    He placed his sandals in his hand,
+    A pledge that he would rule the land:--
+    And bade his brother turn again.
+    Then Bharat, finding prayer was vain,
+    The sandals took and went away;
+    Nor in Ayodhya would he stay,
+    But turned to Nandigrama, where
+    He ruled the realm with watchful care,
+    Still longing eagerly to learn
+    Tidings of Rama's safe return.
+
+    Then lest the people should repeat
+    Their visit to his calm retreat,
+    Away from Chitrakuta's hill
+    Fared Rama, ever onward till
+    Beneath the shady trees he stood
+    Of Dandaka's primeval wood.
+    Viradha, giant fiend, he slew,
+    And then Agastya's friendship knew.
+    Counselled by him he gained the sword
+    And bow of Indra, heavenly lord:--
+    A pair of quivers too, that bore
+    Of arrows an exhaustless store.
+    While there he dwelt in greenwood shade,
+    The trembling hermits sought his aid,
+    And bade him with his sword and bow
+    Destroy the fiends who worked them woe:--
+    To come like Indra strong and brave,
+    A guardian God to help and save.
+    And Rama's falchion left its trace
+    Deep cut on Surpanakha's face:--
+    A hideous giantess who came
+    Burning for him with lawless flame.
+    Their sister's cries the giants heard,
+    And vengeance in each bosom stirred;
+    The monster of the triple head,
+    And Dushan to the contest sped.
+    But they and myriad fiends beside
+    Beneath the might of Rama died.
+
+    When Ravan, dreaded warrior, knew
+    The slaughter of his giant crew--
+    Ravan, the King, whose name of fear
+    Earth, hell, and heaven all shook to hear--
+    He bade the fiend Maricha aid
+    The vengeful plot his fury laid.
+    In vain the wise Maricha tried
+    To turn him from his course aside:--
+    Not Ravan's self, he said, might hope
+    With Rama and his strength to cope.
+    Impelled by fate and blind with rage
+    He came to Rama's hermitage.
+    There, by Maricha's magic art,
+    He wiled the princely youths apart,
+    The vulture slew, and bore away
+    The wife of Rama as his prey.
+    The son of Raghu came and found
+    Jatayu slain upon the ground.
+    He rushed within his leafy cot;
+    He sought his wife, but found her not.
+    Then, then the hero's senses failed;
+    In mad despair he wept and wailed.
+    Upon the pile that bird he laid,
+    And still in quest of Sita strayed.
+    A hideous giant then he saw,
+    Kabandha named, a shape of awe.
+
+    The monstrous fiend he smote and slew,
+    And in the flame the body threw;
+    When straight from out the funeral flame
+    In lovely form Kabandha came,
+    And bade him seek in his distress
+    A wise and holy hermitess.
+    By counsel of this saintly dame
+    To Pampa's pleasant flood he came,
+    And there the steadfast friendship won
+    Of Hanuman the Wind-God's son.
+    Counselled by him he told his grief
+    To great Sugriva, Vanar chief,
+    Who, knowing all the tale, before
+    The sacred flame alliance swore.
+    Sugriva to his new-found friend
+    Told his own story to the end:--
+    His hate of Bali for the wrong
+    And insult he had borne so long.
+    And Rama lent a willing ear
+    And promised to allay his fear.
+    Sugriva warned him of the might
+    Of Bali, matchless in the fight,
+    And, credence for his tale to gain,
+    Showed the huge fiend by Bali slain.
+    The prostrate corse of mountain size
+    Seemed nothing in the hero's eyes;
+    He lightly kicked it, as it lay,
+    And cast it twenty leagues away.
+    To prove his might his arrows through
+    Seven palms in line, uninjured, flew.
+    He cleft a mighty hill apart,
+    And down to hell he hurled his dart.
+    Then high Sugriva's spirit rose,
+    Assured of conquest o'er his foes.
+    With his new champion by his side
+    To vast Kishkindha's cave he hied.
+    Then, summoned by his awful shout,
+    King Bali came in fury out,
+    First comforted his trembling wife,
+    Then sought Sugriva in the strife.
+    One shaft from Rama's deadly bow
+    The monarch in the dust laid low.
+    Then Rama bade Sugriva reign
+    In place of royal Bali slain.
+    Then speedy envoys hurried forth
+    Eastward and westward, south and north,
+    Commanded by the grateful King
+    Tidings of Rama's spouse to bring.
+    Then by Sampati's counsel led,
+    Brave Hanuman, who mocked at dread,
+    Sprang at one wild tremendous leap
+    Two hundred leagues, across the deep.
+    To Lanka's[32] town he urged his way,
+    Where Ravan held his royal sway.
+    There pensive 'neath Asoka boughs
+    He found poor Sita, Rama's spouse.
+    He gave the hapless girl a ring,
+    A token from her lord and King.
+    A pledge from her fair hand he bore;
+    Then battered down the garden door.
+    Five captains of the host he slew,
+    Seven sons of councillors o'erthrew;
+    Crushed youthful Aksha on the field,
+    Then to his captors chose to yield.
+    Soon from their bonds his limbs were free,
+    But honoring the high decree
+    Which Brahma had pronounced of yore,
+    He calmly all their insults bore.
+    The town he burnt with hostile flame,
+    And spoke again with Rama's dame,
+    Then swiftly back to Rama flew
+    With tidings of the interview.
+
+    Then with Sugriva for his guide,
+    Came Rama to the ocean side.
+    He smote the sea with shafts as bright
+    As sunbeams in their summer height,
+    And quick appeared the River's King
+    Obedient to the summoning.
+    A bridge was thrown by Nala o'er
+    The narrow sea from shore to shore.
+    They crossed to Lanka's golden town,
+    Where Rama's hand smote Ravan down.
+    Vibhishan there was left to reign
+    Over his brother's wide domain.
+    To meet her husband Sita came;
+    But Rama, stung with ire and shame,
+    With bitter words his wife addressed
+    Before the crowd that round her pressed.
+    But Sita, touched with noble ire,
+    Gave her fair body to the fire.
+    Then straight the God of Wind appeared,
+    And words from heaven her honor cleared.
+    And Rama clasped his wife again,
+    Uninjured, pure from spot and stain,
+    Obedient to the Lord of Fire
+    And the high mandate of his sire.
+    Led by the Lord who rules the sky,
+    The Gods and heavenly saints drew nigh,
+    And honored him with worthy meed,
+    Rejoicing in each glorious deed.
+    His task achieved, his foe removed,
+    He triumphed, by the Gods approved.
+    By grace of Heaven he raised to life
+    The chieftains slain in mortal strife;
+    Then in the magic chariot through
+    The clouds to Nandigrama flew.
+    Met by his faithful brothers there,
+    He loosed his votive coil of hair;
+    Thence fair Ayodhya's town he gained,
+    And o'er his father's kingdom reigned.
+    Disease or famine ne'er oppressed
+    His happy people, richly blest
+    With all the joys of ample wealth,
+    Of sweet content and perfect health.
+    No widow mourned her well-loved mate,
+    No sire his son's untimely fate.
+    They feared not storm or robber's hand,
+    No fire or flood laid waste the land:
+    The Golden Age seemed come again
+    To bless the days of Rama's reign.
+    From him the great and glorious King,
+    Shall many a princely scion spring.
+    And he shall rule, beloved by men,
+    Ten thousand years and hundreds ten,
+    And when his life on earth is past
+    To Brahma's world shall go at last.
+
+    Whoe'er this noble poem reads
+    That tells the tale of Rama's deeds,
+    Good as the Scriptures, he shall be
+    From every sin and blemish free.
+    Whoever reads the saving strain,
+    With all his kin the heavens shall gain.
+    Brahmans who read shall gather hence
+    The highest praise for eloquence.
+    The warrior, o'er the land shall reign,
+    The merchant, luck in trade obtain;
+    And Sudras, listening, ne'er shall fail
+    To reap advantage from the tale.
+
+[_Cantos II., III., IV., and V. are omitted_.]
+
+
+[32] Ceylon.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO VI
+
+THE KING
+
+    There reigned a King of name revered,
+    To country and to town endeared,
+    Great Dasaratha, good and sage,
+    Well read in Scripture's holy page:
+    Upon his kingdom's weal intent,
+    Mighty and brave and provident;
+    The pride of old Ikshvaku's seed
+    For lofty thought and righteous deed.
+    Peer of the saints, for virtues famed,
+    For foes subdued and passions tamed;
+    A rival in his wealth untold
+    Of Indra and the Lord of Gold.
+    Like Manu first of kings, he reigned,
+    And worthily his state maintained.
+    For firm and just and ever true
+    Love, duty, gain, he kept in view,
+    And ruled his city rich and free,
+    Like Indra's Amaravati.
+    And worthy of so fair a place
+    There dwelt a just and happy race
+    With troops of children blest.
+    Each man contented sought no more,
+    Nor longed with envy for the store
+    By richer friends possessed.
+    For poverty was there unknown,
+    And each man counted as his own
+    Kine, steeds, and gold, and grain.
+    All dressed in raiment bright and clean,
+    And every townsman might be seen
+    With ear-rings, wreath or chain.
+    None deigned to feed on broken fare,
+    And none was false or stingy there.
+    A piece of gold, the smallest pay,
+    Was earned by labor for a day.
+    On every arm were bracelets worn,
+    And none was faithless or forsworn,
+    A braggart or unkind.
+    None lived upon another's wealth,
+    None pined with dread or broken health,
+    Or dark disease of mind.
+    High-souled were all. The slanderous word,
+    The boastful lie, were never heard.
+    Each man was constant to his vows,
+    And lived devoted to his spouse.
+    No other love his fancy knew,
+    And she was tender, kind, and true.
+    Her dames were fair of form and face,
+    With charm of wit and gentle grace,
+    With modest raiment simply neat,
+    And winning manners soft and sweet.
+    The twice-born sages, whose delight
+    Was Scripture's page and holy rite,
+    Their calm and settled course pursued,
+    Nor sought the menial multitude.
+    In many a Scripture each was versed,
+    And each the flame of worship nursed,
+    And gave with lavish hand.
+    Each paid to Heaven the offerings due,
+    And none was godless or untrue
+    In all that holy band.
+    To Brahmans, as the laws ordain,
+    The Warrior caste were ever fain
+    The reverence due to pay;
+    And these the Vaisyas' peaceful crowd,
+    Who trade and toil for gain, were proud
+    To honor and obey;
+    And all were by the Sudras served,
+    Who never from their duty swerved.
+    Their proper worship all addressed
+    To Brahman, spirits, God, and guest.
+    Pure and unmixt their rites remained,
+    Their race's honor ne'er was stained.
+    Cheered by his grandsons, sons, and wife,
+    Each passed a long and happy life.
+    Thus was that famous city held
+    By one who all his race excelled,
+    Blest in his gentle reign,
+    As the whole land aforetime swayed
+    By Manu, prince of men, obeyed
+    Her king from main to main.
+    And heroes kept her, strong and brave,
+    As lions guard their mountain cave;
+    Fierce as devouring flame they burned,
+    And fought till death, but never turned.
+    Horses had she of noblest breed,
+    Like Indra's for their form and speed,
+    From Vahli's hills and Sindhu's sand,
+    Vanayu and Kamboja's land.
+    Her noble elephants had strayed
+    Through Vindhyan and Himalayan shade,
+    Gigantic in their bulk and height,
+    Yet gentle in their matchless might.
+    They rivalled well the world-spread fame
+    Of the great stock from which they came,
+    Of Vaman, vast of size,
+    Of Mahapadma's glorious line,
+    Thine, Anjan, and, Airavat, thine,
+    Upholders of the skies.
+    With those, enrolled in fourfold class,
+    Who all their mighty kin surpass,
+    Whom men Matangas name,
+    And Mrigas spotted black and white,
+    And Bhadras of unwearied might,
+    And Mandras hard to tame.
+    Thus, worthy of the name she bore,
+    Ayodhya for a league or more
+    Cast a bright glory round,
+    Where Dasaratha wise and great
+    Governed his fair ancestral state,
+    With every virtue crowned.
+    Like Indra in the skies he reigned
+    In that good town whose wall contained
+    High domes and turrets proud,
+    With gates and arcs of triumph decked,
+    And sturdy barriers to protect
+    Her gay and countless crowd.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO VII
+
+THE MINISTERS
+
+    Two sages, holy saints, had he,
+    His ministers and priests to be:--
+    Vasishtha, faithful to advise,
+    And Vamadeva, Scripture-wise.
+    Eight other lords around him stood,
+    All skilled to counsel, wise and good:--
+    Jayanta, Vijay, Dhrishti bold
+    In fight, affairs of war controlled;
+    Siddharth and Arthasadhak true
+    Watched o'er expense and revenue,
+    And Dharmapal and wise Asok
+    Of right and law and justice spoke.
+    With these the sage Sumantra, skilled
+    To urge the car, high station filled.
+    All these in knowledge duly trained
+    Each passion and each sense restrained:--
+    With modest manners, nobly bred,
+    Each plan and nod and look they read,
+    Upon their neighbors' good intent,
+    Most active and benevolent;
+    As sits the Vasus round their King,
+    They sate around him counselling.
+    They ne'er in virtue's loftier pride
+    Another's lowly gifts decried.
+    In fair and seemly garb arrayed,
+    No weak uncertain plans they made.
+    Well skilled in business, fair and just,
+    They gained the people's love and trust,
+    And thus without oppression stored
+    The swelling treasury of their lord.
+    Bound in sweet friendship each to each,
+    They spoke kind thoughts in gentle speech.
+    They looked alike with equal eye
+    On every caste, on low and high.
+    Devoted to their King, they sought,
+    Ere his tongue spoke, to learn his thought,
+    And knew, as each occasion rose,
+    To hide their counsel or disclose.
+    In foreign lands or in their own
+    Whatever passed, to them was known.
+    By secret spies they timely knew
+    What men were doing or would do.
+    Skilled in the grounds of war and peace
+    They saw the monarch's state increase,
+    Watching his weal with conquering eye
+    That never let occasion by,
+    While nature lent her aid to bless
+    Their labors with unbought success.
+    Never for anger, lust, or gain,
+    Would they their lips with falsehood stain.
+    Inclined to mercy they could scan
+    The weakness and the strength of man.
+    They fairly judged both high and low,
+    And ne'er would wrong a guiltless foe;
+    Yet if a fault were proved, each one
+    Would punish e'en his own dear son.
+    But there and in the kingdom's bound
+    No thief or man impure was found:--
+    None of loose life or evil fame,
+    No tempter of another's dame.
+    Contented with their lot each caste
+    Calm days in blissful quiet passed;
+    And, all in fitting tasks employed,
+    Country and town deep rest enjoyed.
+    With these wise lords around his throne
+    The monarch justly reigned,
+    And making every heart his own
+    The love of all men gained.
+    With trusty agents, as beseems,
+    Each distant realm he scanned,
+    As the sun visits with his beams
+    Each corner of the land.
+    Ne'er would he on a mightier foe
+    With hostile troops advance,
+    Nor at an equal strike a blow
+    In war's delusive chance.
+    These lords in council bore their part
+    With ready brain and faithful heart,
+    With skill and knowledge, sense and tact,
+    Good to advise and bold to act.
+    And high and endless fame he won
+    With these to guide his schemes--
+    As, risen in his might, the sun
+    Wins glory with his beams.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO VIII
+
+SUMANTRA'S SPEECH
+
+    But splendid, just, and great of mind,
+    The childless King for offspring pined.
+    No son had he his name to grace,
+    Transmitter of his royal race.
+    Long had his anxious bosom wrought,
+    And as he pondered rose the thought:--
+    "A votive steed 'twere good to slay,
+    So might a son the gift repay."
+    Before his lords his plans he laid,
+    And bade them with their wisdom aid;
+    Then with these words Sumantra, best
+    Of royal counsellors, addressed:--
+    "Hither, Vasishtha at their head,
+    Let all my priestly guides be led."
+
+    To him Sumantra made reply:--
+    "Hear, sire, a tale of days gone by.
+    To many a sage in time of old,
+    Sanatkumar, the saint, foretold
+    How from thine ancient line, O King,
+    A son, when years came round, should spring
+    'Here dwells,' 'twas thus the seer began,
+    'Of Kasyap's race, a holy man,
+    Vibhandak named: to him shall spring
+    A son, the famous Rishyasring.
+    Bred with the deer that round him roam,
+    The wood shall be that hermit's home.
+    To him no mortal shall be known
+    Except his holy sire alone.
+    Still by those laws shall he abide
+    Which lives of youthful Brahmans guide,
+    Obedient to the strictest rule
+    That forms the young ascetic's school:
+    And all the wondering world shall hear
+    Of his stern life and penance drear;
+    His care to nurse the holy fire
+    And do the bidding of his sire.
+    Then, seated on the Angas' throne,
+    Shall Lomapad to fame be known.
+    But folly wrought by that great King
+    A plague upon the land shall bring;
+    No rain for many a year shall fall
+    And grievous drought shall ruin all.
+    The troubled King with many a prayer
+    Shall bid the priests some cure declare:--
+    "The lore of Heaven 'tis yours to know,
+    Nor are ye blind to things below:--
+    Declare, O holy men, the way
+    This plague to expiate and stay."
+    Those best of Brahmans shall reply:--
+    "By every art, O Monarch, try,
+    Hither to bring Vibhandak's child,
+    Persuaded, captured, or beguiled.
+    And when the boy is hither led
+    To him thy daughter duly wed."
+
+    But how to bring that wondrous boy
+    His troubled thoughts will long employ,
+    And hopeless to achieve the task
+    He counsel of his lords will ask,
+    And bid his priests and servants bring
+    With honor saintly Rishyasring.
+    But when they hear the monarch's speech,
+    All these their master will beseech,
+    With trembling hearts and looks of woe,
+    To spare them, for they fear to go.
+    And many a plan will they declare
+    And crafty plots will frame,
+    And promise fair to show him there,
+    Unforced, with none to blame.
+    On every word his lords shall say,
+    The King will meditate,
+    And on the third returning day
+    Recall them to debate.
+    Then this shall be the plan agreed,
+    That damsels shall be sent
+    Attired in holy hermits' weed,
+    And skilled in blandishment,
+    That they the hermit may beguile
+    With every art and amorous wile
+    Whose use they know so well,
+    And by their witcheries seduce
+    The unsuspecting young recluse
+    To leave his father's cell.
+    Then when the boy with willing feet
+    Shall wander from his calm retreat
+    And in that city stand,
+    The troubles of the King shall end,
+    And streams of blessed rain descend
+    Upon the thirsty land.
+    Thus shall the holy Rishyasring
+    To Lomapad, the mighty King,
+    By wedlock be allied;
+    For Santa, fairest of the fair,
+    In mind and grace beyond compare,
+    Shall be his royal bride.
+    He, at the Offering of the Steed,
+    The flames with holy oil shall feed,
+    And for King Dasaratha gain
+    Sons whom his prayers have begged in vain,'
+    I have repeated, sire, thus far,
+    The words of old Sanatkumar,
+    In order as he spoke them then
+    Amid the crowd of holy men."
+    Then Dasaratha cried with joy,
+    "Say how they brought the hermit boy."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO IX
+
+RISHYASRING
+
+    The wise Sumantra, thus addressed,
+    Unfolded at the King's behest
+    The plan the lords in council laid
+    To draw the hermit from the shade.
+    The priest, amid the lordly crowd,
+    To Lomapad thus spoke aloud:--
+    "Hear, King, the plot our thoughts have framed,
+    A harmless trick by all unblamed.
+    Far from the world that hermit's child
+    Lives lonely in the distant wild:
+    A stranger to the joys of sense,
+    His bliss is pain and abstinence;
+    And all unknown are women yet
+    To him, a holy anchoret.
+    The gentle passions we will wake
+    That with resistless influence shake
+    The hearts of men; and he
+    Drawn by enchantment strong and sweet
+    Shall follow from his lone retreat,
+    And come and visit thee.
+    Let ships be formed with utmost care
+    That artificial trees may bear,
+    And sweet fruit deftly made;
+    Let goodly raiment, rich and rare,
+    And flowers, and many a bird be there
+    Beneath the leafy shade.
+    Upon the ships thus decked a band
+    Of young and lovely girls shall stand,
+    Rich in each charm that wakes desire,
+    And eyes that burn with amorous fire;
+    Well skilled to sing, and play, and dance,
+    And ply their trade with smile and glance.
+    Let these, attired in hermits' dress,
+    Betake them to the wilderness,
+    And bring the boy of life austere
+    A voluntary captive here,"
+    He ended; and the King agreed,
+    By the priest's counsel won,
+    And all the ministers took heed
+    To see his bidding done.
+    In ships with wondrous art prepared
+    Away the lovely women fared,
+    And soon beneath the shade they stood
+    Of the wild, lonely, dreary wood.
+    And there the leafy cot they found
+    Where dwelt the devotee.
+    And looked with eager eyes around
+    The hermit's son to see.
+    Still, of Vibhandak sore afraid,
+    They hid behind the creeper's shade.
+    But when by careful watch they knew
+    The elder saint was far from view,
+    With bolder steps they ventured nigh
+    To catch the youthful hermit's eye.
+    Then all the damsels blithe and gay,
+    At various games began to play.
+    They tossed the flying ball about
+    With dance and song and merry shout,
+    And moved, their scented tresses bound
+    With wreaths, in mazy motions round.
+    Some girls as if by love possessed,
+    Sank to the earth in feigned unrest,
+    Up-starting quickly to pursue
+    Their intermitted game anew.
+    It was a lovely sight to see
+    Those fair ones, as they played,
+    While fragrant robes were floating free,
+    And bracelets clashing in their glee
+    A pleasant tinkling made.
+    The anklet's chime, the Koil's cry
+    With music filled the place,
+    As 'twere some city in the sky;
+    Which heavenly minstrels grace.
+    With each voluptuous art they strove
+    To win the tenant of the grove,
+    And with their graceful forms inspire
+    His modest soul with soft desire.
+    With arch of brow, with beck and smile,
+    With every passion-waking wile
+    Of glance and lotus hand,
+    With all enticements that excite
+    The longing for unknown delight
+    Which boys in vain withstand.
+    Forth came the hermit's son to view
+    The wondrous sight to him so new,
+    And gazed in rapt surprise
+    For from his natal hour till then
+    On woman or the sons of men
+    He ne'er had cast his eyes.
+    He saw them with their waists so slim,
+    With fairest shape and faultless limb,
+    In variegated robes arrayed,
+    And sweetly singing as they played.
+    Near and more near the hermit drew,
+    And watched them at their game,
+    And stronger still the impulse grew
+    To question whence they came.
+    They marked the young ascetic gaze
+    With curious eye and wild amaze,
+    And sweet the long-eyed damsels sang,
+    And shrill their merry laughter rang.
+    Then came they nearer to his side,
+    And languishing with passion cried:--
+    "Whose son, O youth, and who art thou,
+    Come suddenly to join us now?
+    And why dost thou all lonely dwell
+    In the wild wood? We pray thee, tell.
+    We wish to know thee, gentle youth;
+    Come, tell us, if thou wilt, the truth,"
+    He gazed upon that sight he ne'er
+    Had seen before, of girls so fair,
+    And out of love a longing rose
+    His sire and lineage to disclose:--
+    "My father," thus he made reply,
+    "Is Kasyap's son, a saint most high,
+    Vibhandak styled; from him I came,
+    And Rishyasring he calls my name.
+    Our hermit cot is near this place:--
+    Come thither, O ye fair of face;
+    There be it mine, with honor due,
+    Ye gentle youths, to welcome you."
+
+    They heard his speech, and gave consent,
+    And gladly to his cottage went.
+    Vibhandak's son received them well
+    Beneath the shelter of his cell--
+    With guest-gift, water for their feet,
+    And woodland fruit and roots to eat.
+    They smiled and spoke sweet words like these.
+    Delighted with his courtesies:--
+    "We too have goodly fruit in store,
+    Grown on the trees that shade our door;
+    Come, if thou wilt, kind Hermit, haste
+    The produce of our grove to taste;
+    And let, O good Ascetic, first
+    This holy water quench thy thirst."
+    They spoke, and gave him comfits sweet
+    Prepared ripe fruits to counterfeit;
+    And many a dainty cate beside,
+    And luscious mead their stores supplied.
+    The seeming fruits, in taste and look,
+    The unsuspecting hermit took,
+    For, strange to him, their form beguiled
+    The dweller in the lonely wild.
+    Then round his neck fair arms were flung,
+    And there the laughing damsels clung,
+    And pressing nearer and more near
+    With sweet lips whispered at his ear;
+    While rounded limb and swelling breast
+    The youthful hermit softly pressed.
+    The pleasing charm of that strange bowl,
+    The touch of a tender limb,
+    Over his yielding spirit stole
+    And sweetly vanquished him--
+    But vows, they said, must now be paid;
+    They bade the boy farewell,
+    And of the aged saint afraid,
+    Prepared to leave the dell.
+    With ready guile they told him where
+    Their hermit dwelling lay;
+    Then, lest the sire should find them there,
+    Sped by wild paths away.
+    They fled and left him there alone
+    By longing love possessed;
+    And with a heart no more his own
+    He roamed about distressed.
+    The aged saint came home, to find
+    The hermit boy distraught,
+    Revolving in his troubled mind
+    One solitary thought.
+    "Why dost thou not, my son," he cried,
+    "Thy due obeisance pay?
+    Why do I see thee in the tide
+    Of whelming thought to-day?
+    A devotee should never wear
+    A mien so sad and strange.
+    Come, quickly, dearest child, declare
+    The reason of the change."
+    And Rishyasring, when questioned thus,
+    Made answer in this wise:--
+    "O sire, there came to visit us
+    Some men with lovely eyes.
+    About my neck soft arms they wound
+    And kept me tightly held
+    To tender breasts so soft and round,
+    That strangely heaved and swelled.
+    They sing more sweetly as they dance
+    Than e'er I heard till now,
+    And play with many a sidelong glance
+    And arching of the brow."
+    "My son," said he, "thus giants roam
+    Where holy hermits are,
+    And wander round their peaceful home
+    Their rites austere to mar.
+    I charge thee, thou must never lay
+    Thy trust in them, dear boy:--
+    They seek thee only to betray,
+    And woo but to destroy."
+    Thus having warned him of his foes
+    That night at home he spent,
+    And when the morrow's sun arose
+    Forth to the forest went.
+
+    But Rishyasring with eager pace
+    Sped forth and hurried to the place
+    Where he those visitants had seen
+    Of dainty waist and charming mien.
+    When from afar they saw the son
+    Of Saint Vibhandak toward them run,
+    To meet the hermit boy they hied,
+    And hailed him with a smile, and cried:--
+    "O come, we pray, dear lord, behold
+    Our lovely home of which we told:--
+    Due honor there to thee we'll pay,
+    And speed thee on thy homeward way."
+    Pleased with the gracious words they said
+    He followed where the damsels led.
+    As with his guides his steps he bent,
+    That Brahman high of worth,
+    A flood of rain from heaven sent
+    That gladdened all the earth.
+
+    Vibhandak took his homeward road,
+    And wearied by the heavy load
+    Of roots and woodland fruit he bore
+    Entered at last his cottage door.
+    Fain for his son he looked around,
+    But desolate the cell he found.
+    He stayed not then to bathe his feet,
+    Though fainting with the toil and heat,
+    But hurried forth and roamed about
+    Calling the boy with cry and shout.
+    He searched the wood, but all in vain;
+    Nor tidings of his son could gain.
+    One day beyond the forest's bound
+    The wandering saint a village found,
+    And asked the swains and neatherds there
+    Who owned the land so rich and fair,
+    With all the hamlets of the plain,
+    And herds of kine and fields of grain.
+    They listened to the hermit's words,
+    And all the guardians of the herds,
+    With suppliant hands together pressed,
+    This answer to the saint addressed:--
+    "The Angas' lord who bears the name
+    Of Lomapad, renowned by fame,
+    Bestowed these hamlets with their kine
+    And all their riches, as a sign
+    Of grace, on Rishyasring; and he
+    Vibhandak's son is said to be."
+    The hermit with exulting breast
+    The mighty will of fate confessed,
+    By meditation's eye discerned;
+    And cheerful to his home returned.
+
+    A stately ship, at early morn,
+    The hermit's son away had borne.
+    Loud roared the clouds, as on he sped,
+    The sky grew blacker overhead;
+    Till, as he reached the royal town,
+    A mighty flood of rain came down.
+    By the great rain the monarch's mind
+    The coming of his guest divined.
+    To meet the honored youth he went,
+    And low to earth his head he bent.
+    With his own priest to lead the train,
+    He gave the gift high guests obtain,
+    And sought, with all who dwelt within
+    The city walls, his grace to win.
+    He fed him with the daintiest fare,
+    He served him with unceasing care,
+    And ministered with anxious eyes
+    Lest anger in his breast should rise;
+    And gave to be the Brahman's bride
+    His own fair daughter, lotus-eyed.
+
+    Thus loved and honored by the King,
+    The glorious Brahman Rishyasring
+    Passed in that royal town his life
+    With Santa his beloved wife.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO X
+
+RISHYASRING INVITED
+
+    "Again, O best of Kings, give ear:--
+    My saving words attentive hear,
+    And listen to the tale of old
+    By that illustrious Brahman told.
+    'Of famed Ikshvaku's line shall spring
+    ('Twas thus he spoke) a pious king,
+    Named Dasaratha, good and great,
+    True to his word and fortunate.
+    He with the Angas' mighty lord
+    Shall ever live in sweet accord,
+    And his a daughter fair shall be,
+    Santa of happy destiny.
+    But Lomapad, the Angas' chief,
+    Still pining in his childless grief,
+    To Dasaratha thus shall say:--
+    "Give me thy daughter, friend, I pray,
+    Thy Santa of the tranquil mind,
+    The noblest one of womankind."
+
+    The father, swift to feel for woe,
+    Shall on his friend his child bestow;
+    And he shall take her and depart
+    To his own town with joyous heart.
+    The maiden home in triumph led,
+    To Rishyasring the King shall wed.
+    And he with loving joy and pride
+    Shall take her for his honored bride.
+    And Dasaratha to a rite
+    That best of Brahmans shall invite
+    With supplicating prayer
+    To celebrate the sacrifice
+    To win him sons and Paradise,
+    That he will fain prepare.
+    From him the lord of men at length
+    The boon he seeks shall gain,
+    And see four sons of boundless strength
+    His royal line maintain,
+    Thus did the godlike saint of old
+    The will of fate declare,
+    And all that should befall unfold
+    Amid the sages there.
+    O Prince, supreme of men, go thou,
+    Consult thy holy guide,
+    And win, to aid thee in thy vow,
+    This Brahman to thy side."
+
+    Sumantra's counsel, wise and good,
+    King Dasaratha heard,
+    Then by Vasishtha's side he stood
+    And thus with him conferred:--
+    "Sumantra counsels thus:--do thou
+    My priestly guide, the plan allow."
+    Vasishtha gave his glad consent,
+    And forth the happy monarch went
+    With lords and servants on the road
+    That led to Rishyasring's abode.
+    Forests and rivers duly past,
+    He reached the distant town at last--
+    Of Lomapad the Angas' King,
+    And entered it with welcoming.
+    On through the crowded streets he came,
+    And, radiant as the kindled flame,
+    He saw within the monarch's house
+    The hermit's son, most glorious.
+    There Lomapad, with joyful breast,
+    To him all honor paid,
+    For friendship for his royal guest
+    His faithful bosom swayed.
+    Thus entertained with utmost care
+    Seven days, or eight, he tarried there,
+    And then that best of men thus broke
+    His purpose to the King, and spoke:--
+
+    "O King of men, mine ancient friend,
+    (Thus Dasaratha prayed),
+    Thy Santa with her husband send
+    My sacrifice to aid."
+    Said he who ruled the Angas, "Yea,"
+    And his consent was won:--
+    And then at once he turned away
+    To warn the hermit's son.
+    He told him of their ties beyond
+    Their old affection's faithful bond:--
+    "This King," he said, "from days of old
+    A well beloved friend I hold.
+    To me this pearl of dames he gave
+    From childless woe mine age to save,
+    The daughter whom he loved so much,
+    Moved by compassion's gentle touch.
+    In him thy Santa's father see:--
+    As I am, even so is he.
+    For sons the childless monarch yearns,
+    To thee alone for help he turns.
+    Go thou, the sacred rite ordain
+    To win the sons he prays to gain:--
+    Go, with thy wife thy succor lend,
+    And give his vows a blissful end."
+
+    The hermit's son with quick accord
+    Obeyed the Angas' mighty lord,
+    And with fair Santa at his side
+    To Dasaratha's city hied.
+    Each king, with suppliant hands upheld,
+    Gazed on the other's face:--
+    And then by mutual love impelled
+    Met in a close embrace.
+    Then Dasaratha's thoughtful care,
+    Before he parted thence,
+    Bade trusty servants homeward bear
+    The glad intelligence:--
+    "Let all the town be bright and gay,
+    With burning incense sweet;
+    Let banners wave, and water lay
+    The dust in every street."
+    Glad were the citizens to learn
+    The tidings of their lord's return,
+    And through the city every man
+    Obediently his task began.
+    And fair and bright Ayodhya showed,
+    As following his guest he rode
+    Through the full streets, where shell and drum
+    Proclaimed aloud the King was come.
+    And all the people with delight
+    Kept gazing on their king,
+    Attended by that youth so bright,
+    The glorious Rishyasring.
+    When to his home the King had brought
+    The hermit's saintly son,
+    He deemed that all his task was wrought,
+    And all he prayed for won.
+    And lords who saw the stranger dame
+    So beautiful to view,
+    Rejoiced within their hearts, and came
+    And paid her honor, too.
+    There Rishyasring passed blissful days,
+    Graced like the King with love and praise,
+    And shone in glorious light with her,
+    Sweet Santa for his minister,
+    As Brahma's son Vasishtha, he
+    Who wedded Saint Arundhati.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XI
+
+THE SACRIFICE DECREED
+
+    The Dewy Season came and went;
+    The spring returned again--
+    Then would the King, with mind intent,
+    His sacrifice ordain.
+    He came to Rishyasring, and bowed
+    To him of look divine,
+    And bade him aid his offering vowed
+    For heirs, to save his line.
+    Nor would the youth his aid deny,
+    He spake the monarch fair,
+    And prayed him for that rite so high
+    All requisites prepare.
+    The King to wise Sumantra cried
+    Who stood aye ready near;
+    "Go summon quick, each holy guide,
+    To counsel and to hear,"
+    Obedient to his lord's behest
+    Away Sumantra sped,
+    And brought Vasishtha and the rest,
+    In Scripture deeply read.
+    Suyajna, Vamadeva came,
+    Javali, Kasyap's son,
+    And old Vasishtha, dear to fame,
+    Obedient, every one.
+    King Dasaratha met them there
+    And duly honored each,
+    And spoke in pleasant words his fair
+    And salutary speech:--
+    "In childless longing doomed to pine,
+    No happiness, O lords, is mine.
+    So have I for this cause decreed
+    To slay the sacrificial steed.
+    Fain would I pay that offering high
+    Wherein the horse is doomed to die,
+    With Rishyasring his aid to lend,
+    And with your glory to befriend."
+
+    With loud applause each holy man
+    Received his speech, approved the plan,
+    And, by the wise Vasishtha led,
+    Gave praises to the King, and said:--
+    "The sons thou cravest shalt thou see,
+    Of fairest glory, born to thee,
+    Whose holy feelings bid thee take
+    This righteous course for offspring's sake."
+    Cheered by the ready praise of those
+    Whose aid he sought, his spirits rose--
+    And thus the King his speech renewed
+    With looks of joy and gratitude:--
+    "Let what the coming rites require
+    Be ready, as the priests desire,
+    And let the horse, ordained to bleed,
+    With fitting guard and priest, be freed.
+    Yonder on Sarju's northern side
+    The sacrificial ground provide;
+    And let the saving rites, that nought
+    Ill-omened may occur, be wrought.
+    The offering I announce to-day
+    Each lord of earth may claim to pay,
+    Provided that his care can guard
+    The holy rite by flaws unmarred.
+    For wandering fiends, whose watchful spite
+    Waits eagerly to spoil each rite--
+    Hunting with keenest eye detect
+    The slightest slip, the least neglect;
+    And when the sacred work is crossed
+    The workman is that moment lost.
+    Let preparation due be made,
+    Your powers the charge can meet,
+    That so the noble rite be paid
+    In every point complete."
+    And all the Brahmans answered, "Yea,"
+    His mandate honoring,
+    And gladly promised to obey
+    The order of the King.
+    They cried with voices raised aloud:--
+    "Success attend thine aim!"
+    Then bade farewell, and lowly bowed,
+    And hastened whence they came.
+    King Dasaratha went within,
+    His well-loved wives to see--
+    And said: "Your lustral rites begin,
+    For these shall prosper me.
+    A glorious offering I prepare
+    That precious fruit of sons may bear."
+    Their lily faces brightened fast
+    Those pleasant words to hear,
+    As lilies, when the winter's past,
+    In lovelier hues appear.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XII
+
+THE SACRIFICE BEGUN
+
+    Again the spring with genial heat
+    Returning made the year complete.
+    To win him sons, without delay
+    His vow the King resolved to pay--
+    And to Vasishtha, saintly man,
+    In modest words this speech began:--
+    "Prepare the rite with all things fit
+    As is ordained in Holy Writ,
+    And keep with utmost care afar
+    Whate'er its sacred forms might mar.
+    Thou art, my lord, my trustiest guide,
+    Kind-hearted, and my friend beside;
+    So is it meet thou undertake
+    This heavy task for duty's sake."
+
+    Then he, of twice-born men the best,
+    His glad assent at once expressed:--
+    "Fain will I do whatever may be
+    Desired, O honored King, by thee."
+    To ancient priests he spoke, who, trained
+    In holy rites, deep skill had gained:--
+    "Here guards be stationed, good and sage,
+    Religious men of trusted age.
+    And various workmen send and call,
+    Who frame the door and build the wall--
+    With men of every art and trade,
+    Who read the stars and ply the spade,
+    And mimes and minstrels hither bring,
+    And damsels trained to dance and sing."
+    Then to the learned men he said,
+    In many a page of Scripture read:--
+    "Be yours each rite performed to see
+    According to the King's decree.
+    And stranger Brahmans quickly call
+    To this great rite that welcomes all.
+    Pavilions for the princes, decked
+    With art and ornament, erect,
+    And handsome booths by thousands made
+    The Brahman visitors to shade--
+    Arranged in order side by side,
+    With meat and drink and all supplied.
+    And ample stables we shall need
+    For many an elephant and steed--
+    And chambers where the men may lie,
+    And vast apartments, broad and high,
+    Fit to receive the countless bands
+    Of warriors come from distant lands.
+    For our own people too provide
+    Sufficient tents, extended wide,
+    And stores of meat and drink prepare,
+    And all that can be needed there.
+    And food in plenty must be found
+    For guests from all the country round.
+    Of various viands presents make,
+    For honor, not for pity's sake,
+    That fit regard and worship be
+    Paid to each caste in due degree.
+    And let not wish or wrath excite
+    Your hearts the meanest guest to slight;
+    But still observe with special grace
+    Those who obtain the foremost place,
+    Whether for happier skill in art
+    Or bearing in the rite their part
+    Do you, I pray, with friendly mind
+    Perform the task to you assigned,
+    And work the rite, as bids the law,
+    Without omission, slip, or flaw."
+
+    They answered: "As thou seest fit
+    So will we do and nought omit."
+    The sage Vasishtha then addressed
+    Sumantra, called at his behest:--
+    "The princes of the earth invite,
+    And famous lords who guard the rite,
+    Priest, Warrior, Merchant, lowly thrall,
+    In countless thousands summon all.
+    Where'er their home be, far or near,
+    Gather the good with honor here.
+    And Janak, whose imperial sway
+    The men of Mithila obey,
+    The firm of vow, the dread of foes,
+    Who all the lore of Scripture knows,
+    Invite him here with honor high,
+    King Dasaratha's old ally.
+    And Kasi's lord of gentle speech,
+    Who finds a pleasant word for each--
+    In length of days our monarch's peer,
+    Illustrious King, invite him here.
+    The father of our ruler's bride,
+    Known for his virtues far and wide,
+    The King whom Kekaya's realms obey,
+    Him with his son invite, I pray.
+    And Lomapad, the Angas King,
+    True to his vows and godlike, bring.
+    Far be thine invitations sent
+    To west and south and orient.
+    Call those who rule Surashtra's land,
+    Suvira's realm and Sindhu's strand,
+    And all the kings of earth beside
+    In friendship's bonds with us allied:--
+    Invite them all to hasten in
+    With retinue and kith and kin."
+    Vasishtha's speech without delay
+    Sumantra bent him to obey,
+    And sent his trusty envoys forth
+    Eastward and westward, south and north.
+    Obedient to the saint's request
+    Himself he hurried forth, and pressed
+    Each nobler chief and lord and king
+    To hasten to the gathering.
+    Before the saint Vasishtha stood
+    All those who wrought with stone and wood,
+    And showed the work which every one
+    In furtherance of the rite had done.
+    Rejoiced their ready zeal to see,
+    Thus to the craftsmen all said he:--
+    "I charge ye, masters, see to this,
+    That there be nothing done amiss.
+    And this, I pray, in mind be borne,
+    That not one gift ye give in scorn;
+    Whenever scorn a gift attends
+    Great sin is his who thus offends."
+
+    And now some days and nights had passed,
+    And Kings began to gather fast,
+    And precious gems in liberal store
+    As gifts to Dasaratha bore.
+    Then joy thrilled through Vasishtha's breast
+    As thus the monarch he addressed:--
+    "Obedient to thy high decree
+    The Kings, my lord, are come to thee.
+    And it has been my care to greet
+    And honor all with reverence meet.
+    Thy servants' task is ended quite,
+    And all is ready for the rite.
+    Come forth then to the sacred ground
+    Where all in order will be found."
+    Then Rishyasring confirmed the tale:--
+    Nor did their words to move him fail.
+    The stars propitious influence lent
+    When forth the world's great ruler went.
+    Then by the sage Vasishtha led,
+    The priest began to speed
+    Those glorious rites wherein is shed
+    The lifeblood of the steed.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XIII
+
+THE SACRIFICE FINISHED
+
+    The circling year had filled its course,
+    And back was brought the wandering horse:--
+    Then upon Sarju's northern strand
+    Began the rite the King had planned.
+    With Rishyasring the forms to guide,
+    The Brahmans to their task applied,
+    At that great offering of the steed
+    Their lofty-minded King decreed.
+    The priests, who all the Scripture knew,
+    Performed their part in order due,
+    And circled round in solemn train
+    As precepts of the law ordain.
+    Pravargya rites were duly sped:--
+    For Upasads the flames were fed.
+    Then from the plant the juice was squeezed,
+    And those high saints, with minds well pleased,
+    Performed the mystic rites begun
+    With bathing ere the rise of sun.
+    They gave the portion, Indra's claim,
+    And hymned the King whom none can blame.
+    The mid-day bathing followed next,
+    Observed as bids the holy text.
+    Then the good priests with utmost care,
+    In form that Scripture's rules declare,
+    For the third time pure water shed
+    On high-souled Dasaratha's head.
+    Then Rishyasring and all the rest
+    To Indra and the Gods addressed
+    Their sweet-toned hymn of praise and prayer,
+    And called them in the rite to share.
+    With sweetest song and hymn intoned
+    They gave the Gods in heaven enthroned,
+    As duty bids, the gifts they claim,
+    The holy oil that feeds the flame.
+    And many an offering there was paid,
+    And not one slip in all was made.
+    For with most careful heed they saw
+    That all was done by Veda law.
+    None, all those days, was seen oppressed
+    By hunger or by toil distressed.
+    Why speak of human kind? No beast
+    Was there that lacked an ample feast.
+    For there was store for all who came,
+    For orphan child and lonely dame;
+    The old and young were well supplied,
+    The poor and hungry satisfied.
+    Throughout the day ascetics fed,
+    And those who roam to beg their bread:--
+    While all around the cry was still,
+    "Give forth, give forth," and "Eat your fill."
+    "Give forth with liberal hand the meal,
+    And various robes in largess deal."
+
+    Urged by these cries on every side
+    Unweariedly their task they plied,
+    And heaps of food like hills in size
+    In boundless plenty met the eyes:--
+    And lakes of sauce, each day renewed,
+    Refreshed the weary multitude.
+    And strangers there from distant lands,
+    And women folk in crowded bands
+    The best of food and drink obtained
+    At the great rite the King ordained.
+    Apart from all, the Brahmans there,
+    Thousands on thousands, took their share
+    Of various dainties sweet to taste,
+    On plates of gold and silver placed--
+    All ready set, as, when they willed,
+    The twice-born men their places filled.
+    And servants in fair garments dressed
+    Waited upon each Brahman guest.
+
+    Of cheerful mind and mien were they,
+    With gold and jewelled ear-rings gay.
+    The best of Brahmans praised the fare
+    Of countless sorts, of flavor rare--
+    And thus to Raghu's son they cried:--
+    "We bless thee, and are satisfied."
+    Between the rites some Brahmans spent
+    The time in learned argument,
+    With ready flow of speech, sedate,
+    And keen to vanquish in debate.
+    There day by day the holy train
+    Performed all rites as rules ordain.
+    No priest in all that host was found
+    But kept the vows that held him bound;
+    None, but the holy Vedas knew,
+    And all their sixfold science too.
+    No Brahman there was found unfit
+    To speak with eloquence and wit.
+
+    And now the appointed time came near
+    The sacrificial posts to rear.
+    They brought them, and prepared to fix
+    Of Bel and Khadir six and six;
+    Six, made of the Palasa-tree,
+    Of Fig-wood one, apart to be--
+    Of Sleshmat and of Devadar
+    One column each, the mightiest far:--
+    So thick the two the arms of man
+    Their ample girth would fail to span.
+    All these with utmost care were wrought
+    By hand of priests in Scripture taught,
+    And all with gold were gilded bright
+    To add new splendor to the rite;
+    Twenty-and-one those stakes in all,
+    Each one-and-twenty cubits tall:--
+    And one-and-twenty ribbons there
+    Hung on the pillars bright and fair.
+    Firm in the earth they stood at last,
+    Where cunning craftsmen fixed them fast;
+    And there unshaken each remained,
+    Octagonal and smoothly planed.
+
+    Then ribbons over all were hung,
+    And flowers and scent around them flung.
+    Thus decked they cast a glory forth
+    Like the great saints who star the north.
+    The sacrificial altar then
+    Was raised by skilful twice-born men--
+    In shape and figure to behold
+    An eagle with his wings of gold,
+    With twice nine pits and formed threefold.
+    Each for some special God, beside
+    The pillars were the victims tied;
+    The birds that roam the wood, the air,
+    The water, and the land were there,
+    And snakes and things of reptile birth,
+    And healing herbs that spring from earth:--
+    As texts prescribe, in Scripture found,
+    Three hundred victims there were bound.
+    The steed devoted to the host
+    Of Gods, the gem they honor most,
+    Was duly sprinkled. Then the Queen
+    Kausalya, with delighted mien,
+    With reverent steps around him paced,
+    And with sweet wreaths the victim graced;
+    Then with three swords in order due
+    She smote the steed with joy, and slew.
+    That night the queen, a son to gain,
+    With calm and steady heart was fain
+    By the dead charger's side to stay
+    From evening till the break of day.
+    Then came three priests, their care to lead
+    The other queens to touch the steed--
+    Upon Kausalya to attend,
+    Their company and aid to lend.
+    As by the horse she still reclined,
+    With happy mien and cheerful mind,
+    With Rishyasring the twice-born came
+    And praised and blessed the royal dame.
+    The priest who well his duty knew,
+    And every sense could well subdue,
+    From out the bony chambers freed
+    And boiled the marrow of the steed.
+    Above the steam the monarch bent,
+    And, as he smelt the fragrant scent,
+    In time and order drove afar
+    All error, that his hopes could mar.
+    Then sixteen priests together came,
+    And cast into the sacred flame
+    The severed members of the horse,
+    Made ready all in ordered course.
+    On piles of holy Fig-tree raised
+    The meaner victims' bodies blazed:--
+    The steed, of all the creatures slain,
+    Alone required a pile of cane.
+    Three days, as is by law decreed,
+    Lasted that Offering of the Steed.
+    The Chatushtom began the rite,
+    And when the sun renewed his light,
+    The Ukthya followed--after came
+    The Atiratra's holy flame.
+    These were the rites, and many more,
+    Arranged by light of holy lore,
+    The Aptoryam of mighty power,
+    And, each performed in proper hour,
+    The Abhijit and Visvajit
+    With every form and service fit;
+    And with the sacrifice at night
+    The Jyotishtom and Ayus rite.
+
+    The task was done, as laws prescribe:--
+    The monarch, glory of his tribe,
+    Bestowed the land in liberal grants
+    Upon the sacred ministrants.
+    He gave the region of the east,
+    His conquest, to the Hotri priest.
+    The west the celebrant obtained,
+    The south the priest presiding gained--
+    The northern region was the share
+    Of him who chanted forth the prayer.
+    Thus did each priest obtain his meed
+    At the great Slaughter of the Steed,
+    Ordained, the best of all to be,
+    By self-existent deity.
+
+    Ikshvaku's son, with joyful mind,
+    This noble fee to each assigned--
+    But all the priests with one accord
+    Addressed that unpolluted lord:--
+    "'Tis thine alone to keep the whole
+    Of this broad earth in firm control.
+    No gift of lands from thee we seek,
+    To guard these realms our hands were weak.
+    On sacred lore our days are spent,
+    Let other gifts our wants content."
+
+    The chief of old Ikshvaku's line
+    Gave them ten hundred thousand kine,
+    A hundred millions of fine gold,
+    The same in silver four times told.
+    But every priest in presence there
+    With one accord resigned his share.
+    To Saint Vasishtha, high of soul,
+    And Rishyasring they gave the whole.
+    That largess pleased those Brahmans well,
+    Who bade the prince his wishes tell.
+    Then Dasaratha, mighty King,
+    Made answer thus to Rishyasring:--
+    "O holy Hermit, of thy grace,
+    Vouchsafe the increase of my race."
+    He spoke; nor was his prayer denied--
+    The best of Brahmans thus replied:--
+    "Four sons, O Monarch, shall be thine,
+    Upholders of thy royal line."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XIV
+
+RAVAN DOOMED
+
+
+    The saint, well-read in holy lore,
+    Pondered awhile his answer o'er,
+    And thus again addressed the King,
+    His wandering thoughts regathering:--
+    "Another rite will I begin
+    Which shall the sons thou cravest win,
+    Where all things shall be duly sped
+    And first Atharva texts be read."
+
+    Then by Vibhandak's gentle son
+    Was that high sacrifice begun,
+    The King's advantage seeking still
+    And zealous to perform his will.
+    Now all the Gods had gathered there,
+    Each one for his allotted share--
+    Brahma, the ruler of the sky,
+    Sthanu, Narayan, Lord most high,
+    And holy Indra men might view
+    With Maruts for his retinue;
+    The heavenly chorister, and saint,
+    And spirit pure from earthly taint,
+    With one accord had sought the place
+    The high-souled monarch's rite to grace,
+    Then to the Gods who came to take
+    Their proper share, the hermit spake:--
+    "For you has Dasaratha slain
+    The votive steed, a son to gain;
+    Stern penance-rites the King has tried,
+    And in firm faith on you relied,
+    And now with undiminished care
+    A second rite would fain prepare.
+    But, O ye Gods, consent to grant
+    The longing of your supplicant.
+    For him beseeching hands I lift,
+    And pray you all to grant the gift,
+    That four fair sons of high renown
+    The offerings of the King may crown."
+    They to the hermit's son replied:--
+    "His longing shall be gratified.
+    For, Brahman, in most high degree
+    We love the King and honor thee."
+
+    These words the Gods in answer said,
+    And vanished thence, by Indra led.
+    Thus to the Lord, the worlds who made,
+    The Immortals all assembled prayed:--
+    "O Brahma, mighty by thy grace,
+    Ravan, who rules the giant race,
+    Torments us in his senseless pride,
+    And penance-loving saints beside.
+    For thou well pleased in days of old
+    Gavest the boon that makes him bold,
+    That God nor demon e'er should kill
+    His charmed life, for so thy will.
+    We, honoring that high behest,
+    Bear all his rage though sore distressed.
+    That lord of giants fierce and fell
+    Scourges the earth and heaven and hell.
+    Mad with thy boon, his impious rage
+    Smites saint and bard and God and sage.
+    The sun himself withholds his glow,
+    The wind in fear forbears to blow;
+    The fire restrains his wonted heat
+    Where stand the dreaded Ravan's feet,
+    And, necklaced with the wandering wave,
+    The sea before him fears to rave.
+    Kuvera's self in sad defeat
+    Is driven from his blissful seat.
+    We see, we feel the giant's might,
+    And woe comes o'er us and affright.
+    To thee, O Lord, thy suppliants pray
+    To find some cure this plague to stay."
+
+    Thus by the gathered Gods addressed
+    He pondered in his secret breast,
+    And said: "One only way I find
+    To slay this fiend of evil mind.
+    He prayed me once his life to guard
+    From demon, God, and heavenly bard,
+    And spirits of the earth and air,
+    And I consenting heard his prayer.
+    But the proud giant in his scorn
+    Recked not of man of woman born.
+    None else may take his life away,
+    But only man the fiend may slay."
+
+    The Gods, with Indra at their head,
+    Rejoiced to hear the words he said.
+    Then, crowned with glory like a flame,
+    Lord Vishnu to the council came;
+    His hands shell, mace, and discus bore,
+    And saffron were the robes he wore.
+    Riding his eagle through the crowd,
+    As the sun rides upon a cloud,
+    With bracelets of fine gold, he came,
+    Loud welcomed by the Gods' acclaim.
+    His praise they sang with one consent,
+    And cried, in lowly reverence bent:--
+    "O Lord whose hand fierce Madhu slew,
+    Be thou our refuge, firm and true;
+    Friend of the suffering worlds art thou,
+    We pray thee help thy suppliants now."
+    Then Vishnu spake: "Ye Gods, declare,
+    What may I do to grant your prayer?"
+
+    "King Dasaratha," thus cried they,
+    "Fervent in penance many a day,
+    The sacrificial steed has slain,
+    Longing for sons, but all in vain.
+    Now, at the cry of us forlorn,
+    Incarnate as his seed be born.
+    Three queens has he--each lovely dame
+    Like Beauty, Modesty, or Fame.
+    Divide thyself in four, and be
+    His offspring by these noble three.
+    Man's nature take, and slay in fight
+    Ravan who laughs at heavenly might--
+    This common scourge, this rankling thorn
+    Whom the three worlds too long have borne.
+    For Ravan, in the senseless pride
+    Of might unequalled, has defied
+    The host of heaven, and plagues with woe
+    Angel and bard and saint below,
+    Crushing each spirit and each maid
+    Who plays in Nandan's heavenly shade.
+    O conquering Lord, to thee we bow;
+    Our surest hope and trust art thou.
+    Regard the world of men below,
+    And slay the God's tremendous foe."
+
+    When thus the suppliant Gods had prayed,
+    His wise reply Narayan made:--
+    "What task demands my presence there,
+    And when this dread, ye Gods declare."
+    The Gods replied: "We fear, O Lord,
+    Fierce Ravan, ravener abhorred.
+    Be thine the glorious task, we pray,
+    In human form this fiend to slay.
+    By thee of all the Blest alone
+    This sinner may be overthrown.
+    He gained by penance long and dire
+    The favor of the mighty Sire.
+    Then He who every gift bestows
+    Guarded the fiend from heavenly foes,
+    And gave a pledge his life that kept
+    From all things living, man except.
+    On him thus armed no other foe
+    Than man may deal the deadly blow.
+    Assume, O King, a mortal birth,
+    And strike the demon to the earth."
+
+    Then Vishnu, God of Gods, the Lord
+    Supreme by all the worlds adored,
+    To Brahma and the suppliants spake:--
+    "Dismiss your fear: for your dear sake
+    In battle will I smite him dead,
+    The cruel fiend, the Immortal's dread.
+    And lords and ministers and all
+    His kith and kin with him shall fall.
+    Then, in the world of mortal men,
+    Ten thousand years and hundreds ten
+    I as a human King will reign,
+    And guard the earth as my domain."
+    God, saint, and nymph, and minstrel throng
+    With heavenly voices raised their song
+    In hymns of triumph to the God
+    Whose conquering feet on Madhu trod:---
+
+    "Champion of Gods, as man appear,
+    This cruel Ravan slay,
+    The thorn that saints and hermits fear,
+    The plague that none can stay.
+    In savage fury uncontrolled
+    His pride forever grows--
+    He dares the Lord of Gods to hold
+    Among his deadly foes."
+
+
+
+CANTO XV
+
+THE NECTAR
+
+    When wisest Vishnu thus had given
+    His promise to the Gods of heaven,
+    He pondered in his secret mind
+    A suited place of birth to find.
+    Then he decreed, the lotus-eyed,
+    In four his being to divide,
+    And Dasaratha, gracious King,
+    He chose as sire from whom to spring.
+    That childless prince, of high renown,
+    Who smote in war his foemen down,
+    At that same time with utmost care
+    Prepared the rite that wins an heir.
+    Then Vishnu, fain on earth to dwell,
+    Bade the Almighty Sire farewell,
+    And vanished while a reverent crowd
+    Of Gods and saints in worship bowed.
+
+    The monarch watched the sacred rite,
+    When a vast form of awful might,
+    Of matchless splendor, strength and size
+    Was manifest before his eyes.
+    From forth the sacrificial flame,
+    Dark, robed in red, the being came.
+    His voice was drumlike, loud and low,
+    His face suffused with rosy glow.
+    Like a huge lion's mane appeared
+    The long locks of his hair and beard.
+    He shone with many a lucky sign,
+    And many an ornament divine;
+    A towering mountain in his height,
+    A tiger in his gait and might.
+
+    No precious mine more rich could be,
+    No burning flame more bright than he.
+    His arms embraced in loving hold,
+    Like a dear wife, a vase of gold
+    Whose silver lining held a draught
+    Of nectar as in heaven is quaffed--
+    A vase so vast, so bright to view,
+    They scarce could count the vision true.
+    Upon the King his eyes he bent,
+    And said: "The Lord of life has sent
+    His servant down, O Prince, to be
+    A messenger from heaven to thee."
+    The King with all his nobles by
+    Raised reverent hands and made reply:--
+    "Welcome, O glorious being! Say
+    How can my care thy grace repay,"
+    Envoy of Him whom all adore,
+    Thus to the King he spake once more:--
+    "The Gods accept thy worship--they
+    Give thee the blessed fruit to-day.
+    Approach and take, O glorious King,
+    This heavenly nectar which I bring,
+    For it shall give thee sons and wealth,
+    And bless thee with a store of health.
+    Give it to those fair queens of thine,
+    And bid them quaff the drink divine--
+    And they the princely sons shall bear
+    Long sought by sacrifice and prayer."
+
+    "Yea, O my lord," the monarch said,
+    And took the vase upon his head,
+    The gift of Gods, of fine gold wrought,
+    With store of heavenly liquor fraught.
+    He honored, filled with transport new,
+    That wondrous being, fair to view,
+    As round the envoy of the God
+    With reverential steps he trod.
+    His errand done, that form of light
+    Arose and vanished from the sight.
+    High rapture filled the monarch's soul,
+    Possessed of that celestial bowl,
+    As when a man by want distressed
+    With unexpected wealth is blest.
+    And rays of transport seemed to fall
+    Illuminating bower and hall,
+    As when the autumn moon rides high,
+    And floods with lovely light the sky.
+    Quick to the ladies' bower he sped,
+    And thus to Queen Kausalya said:--
+    "This genial nectar take and quaff,"
+    He spoke, and gave the lady half.
+    Part of the nectar that remained
+    Sumitra from his hand obtained.
+    He gave, to make her fruitful too,
+    Kaikeyi half the residue.
+    A portion yet remaining there,
+    He paused awhile to think,
+    Then gave Sumitra, with her share,
+    The remnant of the drink.
+    Thus on each queen of those fair three
+    A part the King bestowed,
+    And with sweet hope a child to see
+    Their yearning bosoms glowed.
+    The heavenly bowl the King supplied
+    Their longing souls relieved,
+    And soon, with rapture and with pride,
+    Each royal dame conceived.
+    He gazed upon each lady's face,
+    And triumphed as he gazed.
+    As Indra in his royal place
+    By Gods and spirits praised.
+
+
+
+CANTO XVI
+
+THE VANARS
+
+    When Vishnu thus had gone on earth,
+    From the great King to take his birth,
+    The self-existent Lord of all
+    Addressed the Gods who heard his call:--
+    "For Vishnu's sake, the strong and true,
+    Who seeks the good of all of you,
+    Make helps, in war to lend him aid,
+    In forms that change at will, arrayed,
+    Of wizard skill and hero might,
+    Outstrippers of the wind in flight,
+    Skilled in the arts of counsel, wise,
+    And Vishnu's peers in bold emprise;
+    With heavenly arts and prudence fraught,
+    By no devices to be caught;
+    Skilled in all weapons' lore and use
+    As they who drink the immortal juice.
+    And let the nymphs supreme in grace,
+    And maidens of the minstrel race,
+    Monkeys and snakes, and those who rove
+    Free spirits of the hill and grove,
+    And wandering Daughters of the Air,
+    In monkey form brave children bear.
+    So erst the lord of bears I shaped,
+    Born from my mouth as wide I gaped."
+
+    Thus by the mighty Sire addressed
+    They all obeyed his high behest,
+    And thus begot in countless swarms
+    Brave sons disguised in sylvan forms.
+    Each God, each sage became a sire,
+    Each minstrel of the heavenly choir.
+    Each faun, of children strong and good
+    Whose feet should roam the hill and wood.
+    Snakes, bards, and spirits, serpents bold
+    Had sons too numerous to be told.
+    Bali, the woodland hosts who led,
+    High as Mahendra's lofty head,
+    Was Indra's child. That noblest fire,
+    The Sun, was great Sugriva's sire.
+    Tara, the mighty monkey, he
+    Was offspring of Vrihaspati--
+    Tara the matchless chieftain, boast
+    For wisdom of the Vanar host.
+    Of Gandhamadan brave and bold
+    The father was the Lord of Gold.
+    Nala the mighty, dear to fame,
+    Of skilful Visvakarma came.
+    From Agni, Nila bright as flame,
+    Who in his splendor, might, and worth,
+    Surpassed the sire who gave him birth.
+    The heavenly Asvins, swift and fair,
+    Were fathers of a noble pair,
+    Who, Dwivida and Mainda named,
+    For beauty like their sires were famed.
+    Varun was father of Sushen,
+    Of Sarabh, he who sends the rain.
+    Hanuman, best of monkey kind,
+    Was son of him who breathes the wind--
+    Like thunderbolt in frame was he,
+    And swift as Garud's self could flee.
+    These thousands did the Gods create
+    Endowed with might that none could mate,
+    In monkey forms that changed at will--
+    So strong their wish the fiend to kill.
+    In mountain size, like lions thewed,
+    Up-sprang the wondrous multitude,
+    Auxiliar hosts in every shape,
+    Monkey and bear and highland ape.
+    In each the strength, the might, the mien
+    Of his own parent God were seen.
+    Some chiefs of Vanar mothers came,
+    Some of she-bear and minstrel dame,
+    Skilled in all arms in battle's shock,
+    The brandished tree, the loosened rock;
+    And prompt, should other weapons fail,
+    To fight and slay with tooth and nail.
+    Their strength could shake the hills amain.
+    And rend the rooted trees in twain,
+    Disturb with their impetuous sweep
+    The Rivers' Lord, the Ocean deep,
+    Rend with their feet the seated ground,
+    And pass wide floods with airy bound--
+    Or forcing through the sky their way
+    The very clouds by force could stay.
+    Mad elephants that wander through
+    The forest wilds, could they subdue,
+    And with their furious shout could scare
+    Dead upon earth the birds of air.
+    So were the sylvan chieftains formed;
+    Thousands on thousands still they swarmed.
+    These were the leaders honored most,
+    The captains of the Vanar host,
+    And to each lord and chief and guide
+    Was monkey offspring born beside.
+    Then by the bears' great monarch stood
+    The other roamers of the wood,
+    And turned, their pathless homes to seek,
+    To forest and to mountain peak.
+    The leaders of the monkey band
+    By the two brothers took their stand,
+    Sugriva, offspring of the Sun,
+    And Bali, Indra's mighty one.
+    They both endowed with Garud's might,
+    And skilled in all the arts of fight,
+    Wandered in arms the forest through,
+    And lions, snakes, and tigers, slew.
+    But every monkey, ape, and bear
+    Ever was Bali's special care;
+    With his vast strength and mighty arm
+    He kept them from all scathe and harm.
+    And so the earth with hill, wood, seas,
+    Was filled with mighty ones like these--
+    Of various shape and race and kind,
+    With proper homes to each assigned.
+    With Rama's champions fierce and strong
+    The earth was overspread,
+    High as the hills and clouds, a throng
+    With bodies vast and dread.
+
+
+
+CANTO XVII
+
+RISHYASRING'S RETURN
+
+    Now when the high-souled monarch's rite,
+    The Asvamedh, was finished quite,
+    Their sacrificial dues obtained,
+    The Gods their heavenly homes regained.
+    The lofty-minded saints withdrew,
+    Each to his place, with honor due,
+    And kings and chieftains, one and all,
+    Who came to grace the festival.
+    And Dasaratha, ere they went,
+    Addressed them thus benevolent:--
+    "Now may you, each with joyful heart,
+    To your own realms, O Kings, depart.
+    Peace and good luck attend you there,
+    And blessing, is my friendly prayer;
+    Let cares of state each mind engage
+    To guard his royal heritage.
+    A monarch from his throne expelled
+    No better than the dead is held.
+    So he who cares for power and might
+    Must guard his realm and royal right.
+    Such care a meed in heaven will bring
+    Better than rites and offering.
+    Such care a king his country owes
+    As man upon himself bestows,
+    When for his body he provides
+    Raiment and every need besides.
+    For future days should kings foresee,
+    And keep the present error-free."
+    Thus did the King the kings exhort--
+    They heard, and turned them from the court,
+    And, each to each in friendship bound,
+    Went forth to all the realms around.
+    The rites were o'er, the guests were sped,
+    The train the best of Brahmans led--
+    In which the King with joyful soul,
+    With his dear wives, and with the whole
+    Of his imperial host and train
+    Of cars and servants turned again,
+    And, as a monarch dear to fame,
+    Within his royal city came.
+
+    Next, Rishyasring, well-honored sage,
+    And Santa, sought their hermitage.
+    The King himself, of prudent mind,
+    Attended him, with troops behind,
+    And all her men the town outpoured
+    With Saint Vasishtha and their lord.
+    High mounted on a car of state,
+    O'ercanopied fair Santa sate,
+    Drawn by white oxen, while a band
+    Of servants marched on either hand.
+    Great gifts of countless price she bore,
+    With sheep and goats and gems in store.
+    Like Beauty's self the lady shone
+    With all the jewels she had on,
+    As, happy in her sweet content,
+    Peerless amid the fair she went.
+    Not Queen Paulomi's self could be
+    More loving to her lord than she.
+    She who had lived in happy ease,
+    Honored with all her heart could please,
+    While dames and kinsfolk ever vied
+    To see her wishes gratified--
+    Soon as she knew her husband's will
+    Again to seek the forest, still
+    Was ready for the hermit's cot,
+    Nor murmured at her altered lot.
+    The King attended to the wild
+    That hermit and his own dear child,
+    And in the centre of a throng
+    Of noble courtiers rode along.
+    The sage's son had let prepare
+    A lodge within the wood, and there
+    Awhile they lingered blithe and gay,
+    Then, duly honored, went their way.
+    The glorious hermit Rishyasring
+    Drew near and thus besought the King:--
+    "Return, my honored lord, I pray,
+    Return, upon thy homeward way."
+    The monarch, with the waiting crowd,
+    Lifted his voice and wept aloud,
+    And with eyes dripping still to each
+    Of his good queens he spake this speech:--
+    "Kausalya and Sumitra dear,
+    And thou, my sweet Kaikeyi, hear--
+    All upon Santa feast your gaze,
+    The last time for a length of days."
+    To 'Santa's side the ladies leapt,
+    And hung about her neck and wept,
+    And cried, "O, happy be the life
+    Of this great Brahman and his wife.
+    The Wind, the Fire, the Moon on high,
+    The Earth, the Streams, the circling Sky,
+    Preserve thee in the wood, true spouse,
+    Devoted to thy husband's vows.
+    And O dear Santa, ne'er neglect
+    To pay the dues of meek respect
+    To the great saint, thy husband's sire,
+    With all observance and with fire.
+    And, sweet one, pure of spot and blame.
+    Forget not thou thy husband's claim;
+    In every change, in good and ill,
+    Let thy sweet words delight him still,
+    And let thy worship constant be--
+    Her lord is woman's deity.
+    To learn thy welfare, dearest friend,
+    The King will many a Brahman send.
+    Let happy thoughts thy spirit cheer,
+    And be not troubled, daughter dear."
+
+    These soothing words the ladies said,
+    And pressed their lips upon her head,
+    Each gave with sighs her last adieu,
+    Then at the King's command withdrew.
+    The King around the hermit went
+    With circling footsteps reverent,
+    And placed at Rishyasring's command
+    Some soldiers of his royal band.
+    The Brahman bowed in turn and cried,
+    "May fortune never leave thy side.
+    O mighty King, with justice reign,
+    And still thy people's love retain."
+    He spoke, and turned away his face,
+    And, as the hermit went,
+    The monarch, rooted to the place,
+    Pursued with eyes intent.
+    But when the sage had passed from view
+    King Dasaratha turned him too,
+    Still fixing on his friend each thought,
+    With such deep love his breast was fraught.
+    Amid his people's loud acclaim
+    Home to his royal seat he came,
+    And lived delighted there--
+    Expecting when each queenly dame,
+    Upholder of his ancient fame,
+    Her promised son should bear.
+    The glorious sage his way pursued
+    Till close before his eyes he viewed
+    Sweet Champa, Lomapad's fair town,
+    Wreathed with her Champac's leafy crown.
+    Soon as the saint's approach he knew,
+    The King, to yield him honor due,
+    Went forth to meet him with a band
+    Of priests and nobles of the land:--
+    "Hail, Sage," he cried, "O joy to me!
+    What bliss it is, my lord, to see
+    Thee with thy wife and all thy train
+    Returning to my town again.
+    Thy father, honored Sage, is well,
+    Who hither from his woodland cell
+    Has sent full many a messenger
+    For tidings both of thee and her."
+    Then joyfully, for due respect,
+    The monarch bade the town be decked.
+    The King and Rishyasring elate
+    Entered the royal city's gate--
+    In front the chaplain rode.
+    Then, loved and honored with all care
+    By monarch and by courtier, there
+    The glorious saint abode.
+
+
+
+CANTO XVIII
+
+RISHYASRING'S DEPARTURE
+
+    The monarch called a Brahman near
+    And said, "Now speed away
+    To Kasyap's son, the mighty seer,
+    And with all reverence say--
+    The holy child he holds so dear,
+    The hermit of the noble mind,
+    Whose equal it were hard to find,
+    Returned, is dwelling here.
+    Go, and instead of me do thou
+    Before that best of hermits bow,
+    That still he may for his dear son,
+    Show me the favor I have won."
+    Soon as the King these words had said,
+    To Kasyap's son the Brahman sped.
+    Before the hermit low he bent
+    And did obeisance, reverent;
+    Then with meek words his grace to crave
+    The message of his lord he gave:--
+    "The high-souled father of his bride
+    Had called thy son his rites to guide--
+    Those rites are o'er, the steed is slain;
+    Thy noble child is come again."
+    Soon as the saint that speech had heard
+    His spirit with desire was stirred
+    To seek the city of the King
+    And to his cot his son to bring.
+    With young disciples at his side
+    Forth on his way the hermit hied,
+    While peasants from their hamlets ran
+    To reverence the holy man.
+    Each with his little gift of food,
+    Forth came the village multitude,
+    And, as they humbly bowed the head,
+    "What may we do for thee?" they said.
+    Then he, of Brahmans first and best,
+    The gathered people thus addressed:--
+    "Now tell me, for I fain would know,
+    Why is it I am honored so?"
+    They to the high-souled saint replied:--
+    "Our ruler is with thee allied.
+    Our master's order we fulfil;
+    O Brahman, let thy mind be still."
+
+    With joy the saintly hermit heard
+    Each pleasant and delightful word,
+    And poured a benediction down
+    On King and ministers and town.
+    Glad at the words of that high saint
+    Some servants hastened to acquaint
+    Their King, rejoicing to impart
+    The tidings that would cheer his heart.
+    Soon as the joyful tale he knew
+    To meet the saint the monarch flew,
+    The guest-gift in his hand he brought,
+    And bowed before him and besought:--
+    "This day by seeing thee I gain
+    Not to have lived my life in vain.
+    Now be not wroth with me, I pray,
+    Because I wiled thy son away."
+    The best of Brahmans answer made:--
+    "Be not, great lord of Kings, afraid.
+    Thy virtues have not failed to win
+    My favor, O thou pure of sin."
+    Then in the front the saint was placed,
+    The King came next in joyous haste,
+    And with him entered his abode,
+    'Mid glad acclaim as on they rode.
+    To greet the sage the reverent crowd
+    Raised suppliant hands and humbly bowed.
+    Then from the palace many a dame
+    Following well-dressed Santa came,
+    Stood by the mighty saint and cried:--
+    "See, honor's source, thy son's dear bride."
+    The saint, who every virtue knew,
+    His arms around his daughter threw,
+    And with a father's rapture pressed
+    The lady to his wondering breast.
+    Arising from the saint's embrace
+    She bowed her low before his face,
+    And then, with palm to palm applied,
+    Stood by her hermit father's side.
+    He for his son, as laws ordain,
+    Performed the rite that frees from stain,
+    And, honored by the wise and good,
+    With him departed to the wood.
+
+
+
+CANTO XIX
+
+THE BIRTH OF THE PRINCES
+
+    The seasons six, in rapid flight,
+    Had circled since that glorious rite.
+    Eleven months had passed away--
+    'Twas Chaitra's ninth returning day.
+    The moon within that mansion shone
+    Which Aditi looks so kindly on.
+    Raised to their apex in the sky
+    Five brilliant planets beamed on high.
+    Shone with the moon, in Cancer's sign,
+    Vrihaspati with light divine.
+    Kausalya bore an infant blest
+    With heavenly marks of grace impressed;
+    Rama, the universe's lord,
+    A prince by all the worlds adored.
+    New glory Queen Kausalya won
+    Reflected from her splendid son.
+    So Aditi shone more and more,
+    The Mother of the Gods, when she
+    The King of the Immortals bore,
+    The thunder-wielding deity.
+    The lotus-eyed, the beauteous boy,
+    He came fierce Ravan to destroy;
+    From half of Vishnu's vigor born,
+    He came to help the worlds forlorn.
+    And Queen Kaikeyi bore a child
+    Of truest valor, Bharat styled,
+    With every princely virtue blest,
+    One-fourth of Vishnu manifest.
+    Sumitra too a noble pair,
+    Called Lakshman and Satrughna, bare,
+    Of high emprise, devoted, true,
+    Sharers in Vishnu's essence too.
+    'Neath Pushya's mansion, Mina's sign,
+    Was Bharat born, of soul benign.
+    The sun had reached the Crab at morn
+    When Queen Sumitra's babes were born,
+    What time the moon had gone to make
+    His nightly dwelling with the Snake.
+    The high-souled monarch's consorts bore
+    At different times those glorious four,
+    Like to himself and virtuous, bright
+    As Proshthapada's fourfold light.
+
+    Then danced the nymphs' celestial throng,
+    The minstrels raised their strain;
+    The drums of heaven pealed loud and long,
+    And flowers came down in rain.
+    Within Ayodhya, blithe and gay,
+    All kept the joyous holiday.
+    The spacious square, the ample road
+    With mimes and dancers overflowed,
+    And with the voice of music rang
+    Where minstrels played and singers sang--
+    And shone, a wonder to behold,
+    With dazzling show of gems and gold.
+    Nor did the King his largess spare,
+    For minstrel, driver, bard, to share;
+    Much wealth the Brahmans bore away,
+    And many thousand kine that day.
+    Soon as each babe was twelve days old
+    Twas time the naming rite to hold,
+    When Saint Vasishtha, rapt with joy,
+    Assigned a name to every boy.
+    Rama, to him the high-souled heir,
+    Bharat, to him Kaikeyi bare--
+    Of Queen Sumitra one fair son
+    Was Lakshman, and Satrughna one.
+    Rama, his sire's supreme delight,
+    Like some proud banner cheered his sight,
+    And to all creatures seemed to be
+    The self-existent deity.
+    All heroes, versed in holy lore,
+    To all mankind great love they bore.
+    Fair stores of wisdom all possessed,
+    With princely graces all were blest.
+    But mid those youths of high descent,
+    With lordly light preeminent,
+    Like the full moon unclouded shone
+    Rama, the world's dear paragon.
+    He best the elephant could guide,
+    Urge the fleet car, the charger ride--
+    A master he of bowman's skill,
+    Joying to do his father's will.
+    The world's delight and darling, he
+    Loved Lakshman best from infancy;
+    And Lakshman, lord of lofty fate,
+    Upon his elder joyed to wait,
+    Striving his second self to please
+    With friendship's sweet observances.
+    His limbs the hero ne'er would rest
+    Unless the couch his brother pressed;
+    Except beloved Rama shared
+    He could not taste the meal prepared.
+    When Rama, pride of Raghu's race,
+    Sprang on his steed to urge the chase,
+    Behind him Lakshman loved to go
+    And guard him with his trusty bow.
+    As Rama was to Lakshman dear
+    More than his life and ever near,
+    So fond Satrughna prized above
+    His very life his Bharat's love.
+    Illustrious heroes, nobly kind
+    In mutual love they all combined,
+    And gave their royal sire delight
+    With modest grace and warrior might;
+    Supported by the glorious four
+    Shone Dasaratha more and more,
+    As though, with every guardian God
+    Who keeps the land and skies,
+    The Father of all creatures trod
+    The earth before men's eyes.
+
+
+
+CANTO XX
+
+VISVAMITRA'S VISIT
+
+    NOW Dasaratha's pious mind
+    Meet wedlock for his sons designed;
+    With priests and friends the King began
+    To counsel and prepare his plan.
+    Such thoughts engaged his bosom, when,
+    To see Ayodhya's lord of men,
+    A mighty saint of glorious fame,
+    The hermit Visvamitra came.
+    For evil fiends that roam by night
+    Disturbed him in each holy rite,
+    And in their strength and frantic rage
+    Assailed with witcheries the sage.
+    He came to seek the monarch's aid
+    To guard the rites the demons stayed,
+    Unable to a close to bring
+    One unpolluted offering.
+    Seeking the King in this dire strait
+    He said to those who kept the gate:--
+    "Haste, warders, to your master run,
+    And say that here stands Gadhi's son."
+    Soon as they heard the holy man,
+    To the King's chamber swift they ran
+    With minds disordered all, and spurred
+    To wildest zeal by what they heard.
+    On to the royal hall they sped,
+    There stood and lowly bowed the head,
+    And made the lord of men aware
+    That the great saint was waiting there.
+    The King with priest and peer arose
+    And ran the sage to meet,
+    As Indra from his palace goes
+    Lord Brahma's self to greet.
+    When glowing with celestial light
+    The pious hermit was in sight,
+    The King, whose mien his transport showed,
+    The honored gift for guests bestowed.
+    Nor did the saint that gift despise,
+    Offered as holy texts advise;
+    He kindly asked the earth's great King
+    How all with him was prospering.
+    The son of Kusik bade him tell
+    If all in town and field were well,
+    All well with friends, and kith and kin,
+    And royal treasure stored within:--
+    "Do all thy neighbors own thy sway?
+    Thy foes confess thee yet?
+    Dost thou continue still to pay
+    To Gods and men each debt?"
+    Then he, of hermits first and best,
+    Vasishtha with a smile addressed,
+    And asked him of his welfare too,
+    Showing him honor as was due.
+    Then with the sainted hermit all
+    Went joyous to the monarch's hall,
+    And sate them down by due degree,
+    Each one, of rank and dignity.
+    Joy filled the noble prince's breast
+    Who thus bespoke the honored guest:--
+    "As Amrit by a mortal found,
+    As rain upon the thirsty ground,
+    As to an heirless man a son
+    Born to him of his precious one--
+    As gain of what we sorely miss,
+    As sudden dawn of mighty bliss,
+    So is thy coming here to me--
+    All welcome, mighty Saint, to thee.
+    What wish within thy heart hast thou!
+    If I can please thee, tell me how.
+    Hail, Saint, from whom all honors flow,
+    Worthy of all I can bestow.
+    Blest is my birth with fruit to-day,
+    Nor has my life been thrown away.
+    I see the best of Brahman race,
+    And night to glorious morn gives place.
+    Thou, holy Sage, in days of old
+    Among the royal saints enrolled,
+    Didst, penance-glorified, within
+    The Brahman caste high station win.
+    'Tis meet and right in many a way
+    That I to thee should honor pay.
+    This seems a marvel to mine eyes--
+    All sin thy visit purifies;
+    And I by seeing thee, O Sage,
+    Have reaped the fruit of pilgrimage.
+    Then say what thou wouldst have me do.
+    That thou hast sought this interview.
+    Favored by thee, my wish is still,
+    O Hermit, to perform thy will.
+    Nor needest thou at length explain
+    The object that thy heart would gain.
+    Without reserve I grant it now--
+    My deity, O Lord, art thou."
+    The glorious hermit, far renowned.
+    With highest fame and virtue crowned,
+    Rejoiced these modest words to hear
+    Delightful to the mind and ear.
+
+
+
+CANTO XXI
+
+VISVAMITRA'S SPEECH
+
+    The hermit heard with high content
+    That speech so wondrous eloquent,
+    And while each hair with joy arose,
+    He thus made answer at the close:--
+    "Good is thy speech, O noble King,
+    And like thyself in everything.
+    So should their lips be wisdom-fraught
+    Whom kings begot, Vasishtha taught.
+    The favor which I came to seek
+    Thou grantest ere my tongue can speak.
+    But let my tale attention claim,
+    And hear the need for which I came.
+    O King, as Scripture texts allow,
+    A holy rite employs me now.
+    Two fiends who change their forms at will
+    Impede that rite with cursed skill.
+    Oft when the task is nigh complete,
+    These worst of fiends my toil defeat,
+    Throw bits of bleeding flesh, and o'er
+    The altar shed a stream of gore.
+    When thus the rite is mocked and stayed.
+    And all my pious hopes delayed,
+    Cast down in heart the spot I leave,
+    And spent with fruitless labor grieve.
+    Nor can I, checked by prudence, dare
+    Let loose my fury on them there--
+    The muttered curse, the threatening word,
+    In such a rite must ne'er be heard.
+    Thy grace the rite from check can free,
+    And yield the fruit I long to see.
+    Thy duty bids thee, King, defend
+    The suffering guest, the suppliant friend.
+    Give me thy son, thine eldest born,
+    Whom locks like raven's wings adorn.
+    That hero youth, the truly brave,
+    Of thee, O glorious King, I crave.
+    For he can lay those demons low
+    Who mar my rites and work me woe:
+    My power shall shield the youth from harm,
+    And heavenly might shall nerve his arm.
+    And on my champion will I shower
+    Unnumbered gifts of varied power--
+    Such gifts as shall ensure his fame
+    And spread through all the worlds his name.
+    Be sure those fiends can never stand
+    Before the might of Rama's hand,
+    And mid the best and bravest none
+    Can slay that pair but Raghu's son.
+    Entangled in the toils of Fate
+    Those sinners, proud and obstinate,
+    Are, in their fury overbold,
+    No match for Rama, mighty-souled.
+    Nor let a father's breast give way
+    Too far to fond affection's sway.
+    Count thou the fiends already slain:
+    My word is pledged, nor pledged in vain.
+    I know the hero Rama well
+    In whom high thoughts and valor dwell;
+    So does Vasishtha, so do these
+    Engaged in long austerities.
+    If thou would do the righteous deed,
+    And win high fame, thy virtue's meed,
+    Fame that on earth shall last and live,
+    To me, great King, thy Rama give.
+    If to the words that I have said,
+    With Saint Vasishtha at their head
+    Thy holy men, O King, agree,
+    Then let thy Rama go with me.
+    Ten nights my sacrifice will last,
+    And ere the stated time be past
+    Those wicked fiends, those impious twain,
+    Must fall by wondrous Rama slain.
+    Let not the hours, I warn thee, fly,
+    Fixt for the rite, unheeded by;
+    Good luck have thou, O royal Chief,
+    Nor give thy heart to needless grief."
+
+    Thus in fair words with virtue fraught,
+    The pious glorious saint besought.
+    But the good speech with poignant sting
+    Pierced ear and bosom of the King,
+    Who, stabbed with pangs too sharp to bear,
+    Fell prostrate and lay fainting there.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXII
+
+DASARATHA'S SPEECH
+
+    His tortured senses all astray,
+    Awhile the hapless monarch lay,
+    Then slowly gathering thought and strength
+    To Visvamitra spoke at length:--
+    "My son is but a child, I ween;
+    This year he will be just sixteen.
+    How is he fit for such emprise,
+    My darling with the lotus eyes?
+    A mighty army will I bring
+    That calls me master, lord, and King,
+    And with its countless squadrons fight
+    Against these rovers of the night.
+    My faithful heroes skilled to wield
+    The arms of war will take the field;
+    Their skill the demons' might may break:
+    Rama, my child, thou must not take.
+    I, even I, my bow in hand,
+    Will in the van of battle stand,
+    And, while my soul is left alive,
+    With the night-roaming demons strive.
+    Thy guarded sacrifice shall be
+    Completed, from all hindrance free.
+    Thither will I my journey make:
+    Rama, my child, thou must not take.
+    A boy unskilled, he knows not yet
+    The bounds to strength and weakness set.
+    No match is he for demon foes
+    Who magic arts to arms oppose.
+    O chief of saints, I have no power,
+    Of Rama reft, to live one hour--
+    Mine aged heart at once would break:
+    Rama, my child, thou must not take.
+    Nine thousand circling years have fled
+    With all their seasons o'er my head,
+    And as a hard-won boon, O Sage,
+    These sons have come to cheer mine age.
+    My dearest love amid the four
+    Is he whom first his mother bore,
+    Still dearer for his virtue's sake;
+    Rama, my child, thou must not take.
+    But if, unmoved by all I say,
+    Thou needs must bear my son away,
+    Let me lead with him, I entreat,
+    A fourfold army all complete.
+    What is the demons' might, O Sage?
+    Who are they? What their parentage?
+    What is their size? What beings lend
+    Their power to guard them and befriend?
+    How can my son their arts withstand?
+    Or I or all my armed band?
+    Tell me the whole that I may know
+    To met in war each evil foe
+    Whom conscious might inspires with pride."
+
+    And Visvamitra thus replied:--
+    "Sprung from Pulastya's race there came
+    A giant known by Ravan's name.
+    Once favored by the Eternal Sire
+    He plagues the worlds in ceaseless ire,
+    For peerless power and might renowned,
+    By giant bands encompassed round.
+    Visravas for his sire they hold,
+    His brother is the Lord of Gold.
+    King of the giant hosts is he,
+    And worst of all in cruelty.
+    This Ravan's dread commands impel
+    Two demons who in might excel,
+    Maricha and Suvahu Light,
+    To trouble and impede the rite."
+    Then thus the King addressed the sage:--
+    "No power have I, my lord, to wage
+    War with this evil-minded foe;
+    Now pity on my darling show,
+    And upon me of hapless fate,
+    For thee as God I venerate.
+    Gods, spirits, bards of heavenly birth,
+    The birds of air, the snakes of earth
+    Before the might of Ravan quail,
+    Much less can mortal man avail.
+    He draws, I hear, from out the breast,
+    The valor of the mightiest.
+    No, ne'er can I with him contend,
+    Or with the forces he may send.
+    How can I then my darling lend,
+    Godlike, unskilled in battle? No,
+    I will not let my young child go.
+    Foes of thy rite, those mighty ones,
+    Sunda and Upasunda's sons,
+    Are fierce as Fate to overthrow:
+    I will not let my young child go.
+    Maricha and Suvahu fell
+    Are valiant and instructed well.
+    One of the twain I might attack
+    With all my friends their lord to back."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXIII
+
+VASISHTHA'S SPEECH
+
+    While thus the hapless monarch spoke,
+    Paternal love his utterance broke.
+    Then words like these the saint returned,
+    And fury in his bosom burned:--
+    "Didst thou, O King, a promise make,
+    And wishest now thy word to break?
+    A son of Raghu's line should scorn
+    To fail in faith, a man forsworn.
+    But if thy soul can bear the shame
+    I will return e'en as I came.
+    Live with thy sons, and joy be thine,
+    False scion of Kakutstha's line."
+    As Visvamitra, mighty sage,
+    Was moved with this tempestuous rage,
+    Earth rocked and reeled throughout her frame,
+    And fear upon the Immortals came.
+    But Saint Vasishtha, wisest seer,
+    Observant of his vows austere,
+    Saw the whole world convulsed with dread,
+    And thus unto the monarch said:--
+    "Thou, born of old Ikshvaku's seed,
+    Art Justice' self in mortal weed.
+    Constant and pious, blest by fate,
+    The right thou must not violate.
+    Thou, Raghu's son, so famous through
+    The triple world as just and true,
+    Perform thy bounden duty still,
+    Nor stain thy race by deed of ill.
+    If thou have sworn and now refuse
+    Thou must thy store of merit lose.
+    Then, Monarch, let thy Rama go?
+    Nor fear for him the demon foe.
+    The fiends shall have no power to hurt
+    Him trained to war or inexpert--
+    Nor vanquish him in battle field,
+    For Kusik's son the youth will shield.
+    He is incarnate Justice, he
+    The best of men for bravery--
+    Embodied love of penance drear,
+    Among the wise without a peer.
+    Full well he knows, great Kusik's son,
+    The arms celestial, every one,
+    Arms from the Gods themselves concealed,
+    Far less to other men revealed.
+    These arms to him, when earth he swayed,
+    Mighty Krisasva, pleased, conveyed.
+    Krisasva's sons they are indeed,
+    Brought forth by Daksha's lovely seed,
+    Heralds of conquest, strong and bold,
+    Brilliant, of semblance manifold.
+    Jaya and Vijaya, most fair,
+    A hundred splendid weapons bare;
+    Of Jaya, glorious as the morn,
+    First fifty noble sons were born,
+    Boundless in size yet viewless too,
+    They came the demons to subdue.
+    And fifty children also came
+    Of Vijaya the beauteous dame,
+    Sanharas named, of mighty force,
+    Hard to assail or check in course;
+    Of these the hermit knows the use,
+    And weapons new can he produce.
+    All these the mighty saint will yield
+    To Rama's hand, to own and wield;
+    And armed with these, beyond a doubt
+    Shall Rama put those fiends to rout.
+    For Rama and the people's sake,
+    For thine own good my counsel take,
+    Nor seek, O King, with fond delay,
+    The parting of thy son to stay."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXIV
+
+THE SPELLS
+
+    Vasishtha thus was speaking still:
+    The monarch, of his own free will,
+    Bade with quick zeal and joyful cheer
+    Rama and Lakshman hasten near.
+    Mother and sire in loving care
+    Sped their dear son with rite and prayer;
+    Vasishtha blessed him ere he went,
+    O'er his loved head the father bent--
+    And then to Kusik's son resigned
+    Rama with Lakshman close behind.
+    Standing by Visvamitra's side,
+    The youthful hero, lotus-eyed,
+    The Wind-God saw, and sent a breeze
+    Whose sweet pure touch just waved the trees.
+    There fell from heaven a flowery rain,
+    And with the song and dance the strain
+    Of shell and tambour sweetly blent
+    As forth the son of Raghu went.
+    The hermit led: behind him came
+    The bow-armed Rama, dear to fame,
+    Whose locks were like the raven's wing:--
+    Then Lakshman, closely following.
+    The Gods and Indra, filled with joy,
+    Looked down upon the royal boy,
+    And much they longed the death to see
+    Of their ten-headed enemy.
+    Rama and Lakshman paced behind
+    That hermit of the lofty mind,
+    As the young Asvins, heavenly pair,
+    Follow Lord Indra through the air.
+    On arm and hand the guard they wore,
+    Quiver and bow and sword they bore;
+    Two fire-born Gods of War seemed they,
+    He, Siva's self who led the way.
+    Upon fair Sarju's southern shore
+    They now had walked a league or more,
+    When thus the sage in accents mild
+    To Rama said: "Beloved child,
+    This lustral water duly touch:
+    My counsel will avail thee much.
+    Forget not all the words I say,
+    Nor let the occasion slip away.
+    Lo, with two spells I thee invest,
+    The mighty and the mightiest.
+    O'er thee fatigue shall ne'er prevail,
+    Nor age nor change thy limbs assail.
+    Thee powers of darkness ne'er shall smite
+    In tranquil sleep or wild delight.
+    No one is there in all the land
+    Thine equal for the vigorous hand.
+    Thou, when thy lips pronounce the spell,
+    Shalt have no peer in heaven or hell.
+    None in the world with thee shall vie,
+    O sinless one, in apt reply--
+    In fortune, knowledge, wit, and tact,
+    Wisdom to plan and skill to act.
+    This double science take, and gain
+    Glory that shall for aye remain.
+    Wisdom and judgment spring from each
+    Of these fair spells whose use I teach.
+    Hunger and thirst unknown to thee,
+    High in the worlds thy rank shall be.
+    For these two spells with might endued,
+    Are the Great Father's heavenly brood,
+    And thee, O Chief, may fitly grace,
+    Thou glory of Kakutstha's race.
+    Virtues which none can match are thine,
+    Lord, from thy birth, of gifts divine--
+    And now these spells of might shall cast
+    Fresh radiance o'er the gifts thou hast."
+    Then Rama duly touched the wave,
+    Raised suppliant hands, bowed low his head,
+    And took the spells the hermit gave,
+    Whose soul on contemplation fed.
+    From him whose might these gifts enhanced
+    A brighter beam of glory glanced:--
+    So shines in all his autumn blaze
+    The Day-God of the thousand rays.
+    The hermit's wants those youths supplied,
+    As pupils used to holy guide.
+    And then the night in sweet content
+    On Sarju's pleasant bank they spent.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXV
+
+THE HERMITAGE OF LOVE
+
+
+    Soon as appeared the morning light
+    Up rose the mighty anchorite,
+    And thus to youthful Rama said,
+    Who lay upon his leafy bed:--
+    "High fate is hers who calls thee son:
+    Arise, 'tis break of day;
+    Rise, Chief, and let those rites be done
+    Due at the morning's ray."
+    At that great sage's high behest
+    Up sprang the princely pair,
+    To bathing rites themselves addressed,
+    And breathed the holiest prayer.
+    Their morning task completed, they
+    To Visvamitra came,
+    That store of holy works, to pay
+    The worship saints may claim.
+    Then to the hallowed spot they went
+    Along fair Sarju's side
+    Where mix her waters confluent
+    With three-pathed Ganga's tide.
+    There was a sacred hermitage
+    Where saints devout of mind
+    Their lives through many a lengthened age
+    To penance had resigned.
+    That pure abode the princes eyed
+    With unrestrained delight,
+    And thus unto the saint they cried,
+    Rejoicing at the sight:--
+    "Whose is that hermitage we see?
+    Who makes his dwelling there?
+    Full of desire to hear are we:
+    O Saint, the truth declare."
+    The hermit, smiling, made reply
+    To the two boys' request:--
+    "Hear, Rama, who in days gone by
+    This calm retreat possessed--
+    Kandarpa in apparent form,
+    (Called Kama by the wise,)
+    Dared Uma's new-wed lord to storm
+    And make the God his prize.
+    'Gainst Sthanu's self, on rites austere
+    And vows intent, they say,
+    His bold rash hand he dared to rear,
+    Though Sthanu cried, Away!
+    But the God's eye with scornful glare
+    Fell terrible on him,
+    Dissolved the shape that was so fair
+    And burnt up every limb.
+    Since the great God's terrific rage
+    Destroyed his form and frame,
+    Kama in each succeeding age
+    Has borne Ananga's name.
+    So, where his lovely form decayed,
+    This land is Anga styled:--
+    Sacred to him of old this shade,
+    And hermits undefiled.
+    Here Scripture-talking elders sway
+    Each sense with firm control,
+    And penance-rites have washed away
+    All sin from every soul.
+    One night, fair boy, we here will spend,
+    A pure stream on each hand,
+    And with to-morrow's light will bend
+    Our steps to yonder strand.
+    Here let us bathe, and free from stain
+    To that pure grove repair,
+    Sacred to Kama, and remain
+    One night in comfort there."
+    With penance' far-discerning eye
+    The saintly men beheld
+    Their coming, and with transport high
+    Each holy bosom swelled.
+    To Kusik's son the gift they gave
+    That honored guest should greet--
+    Water they brought his feet to lave,
+    And showed him honor meet.
+    Rama and Lakshman next obtained
+    In due degree their share--
+    Then with sweet talk the guests remained,
+    And charmed each listener there.
+    The evening prayers were duly said
+    With voices calm and low:--
+    Then on the ground each laid his head
+    And slept till morning's glow.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXVI
+
+THE FOREST OF TADAKA
+
+    When the fair light of morning rose
+    The princely tamers of their foes
+    Followed, his morning worship o'er,
+    The hermit to the river's shore.
+    The high-souled men with thoughtful care
+    A pretty barge had stationed there.
+    All cried, "O lord, this barge ascend,
+    And with thy princely followers bend
+    To yonder side thy prosperous way--
+    With nought to check thee or delay."
+    Nor did the saint their rede reject:
+    He bade farewell with due respect,
+    And crossed, attended by the twain,
+    That river rushing to the main.
+    When now the bark was half-way o'er,
+    Rama and Lakshman heard the roar,
+    That louder grew and louder yet,
+    Of waves by dashing waters met.
+    Then Rama asked the mighty seer:--
+    "What is the tumult that I hear
+    Of waters cleft in mid-career?"
+    Soon as the speech of Rama, stirred
+    By deep desire to know, he heard,
+    The pious saint began to tell
+    What caused the waters' roar and swell:--
+    "On high Kailasa's distant hill
+    There lies a noble lake
+    Whose waters, born from Brahma's will,
+    The name of Manas take.
+    Thence, hallowing where'er they flow,
+    The streams of Sarju fall,
+    And wandering through the plains below
+    Embrace Ayodhya's wall.
+    Still, still preserved in Sarju's name
+    Sarovar's fame we trace,
+    The flood of Brahma whence she came
+    To run her holy race.
+    To meet great Ganga here she hies
+    With tributary wave--
+    Hence the loud roar ye hear arise,
+    Of floods that swell and rave.
+    Here, pride of Raghu's line, do thou
+    In humble adoration bow."
+
+    He spoke. The princes both obeyed,
+    And reverence to each river paid.
+    They reached the southern shore at last,
+    And gayly on their journey passed.
+    A little space beyond there stood
+    A gloomy awe-inspiring wood.
+    The monarch's noble son began
+    To question thus the holy man:--
+    "Whose gloomy forest meets mine eye,
+    Like some vast cloud that fills the sky?
+    Pathless and dark it seems to be,
+    Where birds in thousands wander free;
+    Where shrill cicadas' cries resound,
+    And fowl of dismal note abound.
+    Lion, rhinoceros, and bear,
+    Boar, tiger, elephant, are there,
+    There shrubs and thorns run wild:
+    Dhao, Sal, Bignonia, Bel, are found,
+    And every tree that grows on ground:
+    How is the forest styled?"
+    The glorious saint this answer made:--
+    "Dear child of Raghu, hear
+    Who dwells within the horrid shade
+    That looks so dark and drear.
+    Where now is wood, long ere this day
+    Two broad and fertile lands,
+    Malaja and Karusha lay,
+    Adorned by heavenly hands.
+    Here, mourning friendship's broken ties,
+    Lord Indra of the thousand eyes
+    Hungered and sorrowed many a day,
+    His brightness soiled with mud and clay,
+    When in a storm of passion he
+    Had slain his dear friend Namuchi.
+    Then came the Gods and saints who bore
+    Their golden pitchers brimming o'er
+    With holy streams that banish stain,
+    And bathed Lord Indra pure again.
+    When in this land the God was freed
+    From spot and stain of impious deed
+    For that his own dear friend he slew,
+    High transport thrilled his bosom through.
+    Then in his joy the lands he blessed,
+    And gave a boon they long possessed:--
+    "Because these fertile lands retain
+    The washings of the blot and stain,
+    ('Twas thus Lord Indra sware,)
+    Malaja and Karusha's name
+    Shall celebrate with deathless fame
+    My malady and care."
+    "So be it," all the Immortals cried,
+    When Indra's speech they heard--
+    And with acclaim they ratified
+    The names his lips conferred.
+    "Long time, O victor of thy foes,
+    These happy lands had sweet repose,
+    And higher still in fortune rose.
+    At length a spirit, loving ill,
+    Tadaka, wearing shapes at will--
+    Whose mighty strength, exceeding vast,
+    A thousand elephants' surpassed,
+    Was to fierce Sunda, lord and head
+    Of all the demon armies, wed.
+    From her, Lord Indra's peer in might
+    Giant Maricha sprang to light;
+    And she, a constant plague and pest,
+    These two fair realms has long distressed.
+    Now dwelling in her dark abode
+    A league away she bars the road:
+    And we, O Rama, hence must go
+    Where lies the forest of the foe.
+    Now on thine own right arm rely,
+    And my command obey:
+    Smite the foul monster that she die,
+    And take the plague away.
+    To reach this country none may dare,
+    Fallen from its old estate,
+    Which she, whose fury nought can bear,
+    Has left so desolate.
+    And now my truthful tale is told--
+    How with accursed sway
+    The spirit plagued this wood of old,
+    And ceases not to-day."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXVII
+
+THE BIRTH OF TADAKA
+
+    When thus the sage without a peer
+    Had closed that story strange to hear,
+    Rama again the saint addressed,
+    To set one lingering doubt at rest:--
+    "O holy man, 'tis said by all
+    That spirits' strength is weak and small,
+    How can she match, of power so slight,
+    A thousand elephants in might?"
+    And Visvamitra thus replied
+    To Raghu's son, the glorified:--
+    "Listen, and I will tell thee how
+    She gained the strength that arms her now.
+    A mighty spirit lived of yore;
+    Suketu was the name he bore.
+    Childless was he, and free from crime
+    In rites austere he passed his time.
+    The mighty Sire was pleased to show
+    His favor, and a child bestow,
+    Tadaka named, most fair to see,
+    A pearl among the maids was she--
+    And matched, for such was Brahma's dower,
+    A thousand elephants in power.
+    Nor would the Eternal Sire, although
+    The spirit longed, a son bestow.
+    That maid in beauty's youthful pride
+    Was given to Sunda for a bride.
+    Her son, Maricha was his name,
+    A giant, through a curse, became.
+    She, widowed, dared with him molest
+    Agastya, of all saints the best.
+    Inflamed with hunger's wildest rage,
+    Roaring she rushed upon the sage.
+    When the great hermit saw her near,
+    On-speeding in her fierce career,
+    He thus pronounced Maricha's doom:--
+    'A giant's form and shape assume,'
+    And then, by mighty anger swayed,
+    On Tadaka this curse he laid:--
+    'Thy present form and semblance quit,
+    And wear a shape thy mood to fit;
+    Changed form and feature by my ban,
+    A fearful thing that feeds on man.'
+    She, by his awful curse possessed,
+    And mad with rage that fills her breast,
+    Has on this land her fury dealt
+    Where once the saint Agastya dwelt.
+    Go, Rama, smite this monster dead,
+    The wicked plague, of power so dread,
+    And further by this deed of thine
+    The good of Brahmans and of kine.
+    Thy hand alone can overthrow,
+    In all the worlds, this impious foe.
+    Nor let compassion lead thy mind
+    To shrink from blood of womankind;
+    A monarch's son must ever count
+    The people's welfare paramount--
+    And whether pain or joy he deal
+    Dare all things for his subjects' weal;
+    Yea, if the deed bring praise or guilt,
+    If life be saved or blood be spilt:--
+    Such, through all time, should be the care
+    Of those a kingdom's weight who bear.
+    Slay, Rama, slay this impious fiend,
+    For by no law her life is screened.
+    So Manthara, as bards have told,
+    Virochan's child, was slain of old
+    By Indra, when in furious hate
+    She longed the earth to devastate.
+    So Kavya's mother, Bhrigu's wife,
+    Who loved her husband as her life,
+    When Indra's throne she sought to gain,
+    By Vishnu's hand of yore was slain.
+    By these and high-souled kings beside,
+    Struck down, have lawless women died."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXVIII
+
+THE DEATH OF TADAKA
+
+    Thus spoke the saint. Each vigorous word
+    The noble monarch's offspring heard--
+    And, reverent hands together laid,
+    His answer to the hermit made:--
+    "My sire and mother bade me aye
+    Thy word, O mighty Saint, obey.
+    So will I, O most glorious, kill
+    This Tadaka who joys in ill--
+    For such my sire's, and such thy will.
+    To aid with mine avenging hand
+    The Brahmans, kine, and all the land,
+    Obedient, heart and soul, I stand."
+    Thus spoke the tamer of the foe,
+    And by the middle grasped his bow.
+    Strongly he drew the sounding string
+    That made the distant welkin ring.
+    Scared by the mighty clang the deer
+    That roamed the forest shook with fear.
+    And Tadaka the echo heard,
+    And rose in haste from slumber stirred.
+    In wild amaze, her soul aflame
+    With fury towards the spot she came.
+    When that foul shape of evil mien
+    And stature vast as e'er was seen
+    The wrathful son of Raghu eyed,
+    He thus unto his brother cried:--
+    "Her dreadful shape, O Lakshman, see,
+    A form to shudder at and flee.
+    The hideous monster's very view
+    Would cleave a timid heart in two.
+    Behold the demon hard to smite,
+    Defended by her magic might.
+    My hand shall stay her course to-day,
+    And shear her nose and ears away.
+    No heart have I her life to take:
+    I spare it for her sex's sake.
+    My will is but--with minished force--
+    To check her in her evil course."
+    While thus he spoke, by rage impelled--
+    Roaring as she came nigh,
+    The fiend her course at Rama held
+    With huge arms tossed on high.
+    Her, rushing on, the seer assailed
+    With a loud cry of hate;
+    And thus the sons of Raghu hailed:--
+    "Fight, and be fortunate."
+    Then from the earth a horrid cloud
+    Of dust the demon raised,
+    And for awhile in darkling shroud
+    Wrapt Raghu's sons amazed.
+    Then calling on her magic power
+    The fearful fight to wage,
+    She smote him with a stony shower,
+    Till Rama burned with rage.
+    Then pouring forth his arrowy rain
+    That stony flood to stay,
+    With winged darts, as she charged amain,
+    He shore her hands away.
+    As Tadaka still thundered near
+    Thus maimed by Rama's blows,
+    Lakshman in fury severed sheer
+    The monster's ears and nose.
+    Assuming by her magic skill
+    A fresh and fresh disguise,
+    She tried a thousand shapes at will,
+    Then vanished from their eyes.
+    When Gadhi's son of high renown
+    Still saw the stony rain pour down
+    Upon each princely warrior's head,
+    With words of wisdom thus he said:--
+    "Enough of mercy, Rama, lest
+    This sinful evil-working pest,
+    Disturber of each holy rite,
+    Repair by magic arts her might.
+    Without delay the fiend should die,
+    For, see, the twilight hour is nigh.
+    And at the joints of night and day
+    Such giant foes are hard to slay."
+    Then Rama, skilful to direct
+    His arrow to the sound--
+    With shafts the mighty demon checked
+    Who rained her stones around.
+    She, sore impeded and beset
+    By Rama and his arrowy net--
+    Though skilled in guile and magic lore,
+    Rushed on the brothers with a roar.
+    Deformed, terrific, murderous, dread,
+    Swift as the levin on she sped--
+    Like cloudy pile in autumn's sky,
+    Lifting her two vast arms on high:
+    When Rama smote her with a dart
+    Shaped like a crescent, to the heart.
+    Sore wounded by the shaft that came
+    With lightning speed and surest aim,
+    Blood spurting from her mouth and side,
+    She fell upon the earth and died.
+    Soon as the Lord who rules the sky
+    Saw the dread monster lifeless lie,
+    He called aloud, Well done! well done!
+    And the Gods honored Raghu's son.
+    Standing in heaven the Thousand-eyed,
+    With all the Immortals, joying cried:--
+    "Lift up thine eyes, O Saint, and see
+    The Gods and Indra nigh to thee.
+    This deed of Rama's boundless might
+    Has filled our bosoms with delight.
+    Now, for our will would have it so,
+    To Raghu's son some favor show.
+    Invest him with the power which nought
+    But penance gains, and holy thought.
+    Those heavenly arms on him bestow--
+    To thee entrusted long ago
+    By great Krisasva best of kings,
+    Son of the Lord of living things.
+    More fit recipient none can be
+    Than he who joys in following thee;
+    And for our sakes the monarch's seed
+    Has yet to do a mighty deed."
+
+    He spoke; and all the heavenly train
+    Rejoicing sought their homes again,
+    While honor to the saint they paid--
+    Then came the evening's twilight shade.
+    The best of hermits overjoyed
+    To know the monstrous fiend destroyed,
+    His lips on Rama's forehead pressed,
+    And thus the conquering chief addressed:--
+    "O Rama, gracious to the sight,
+    Here will we pass the present night,
+    And with the morrow's earliest ray
+    Bend to my hermitage our way."
+    The son of Dasaratha heard,
+    Delighted, Visvamitra's word--
+    And as he bade, that night he spent
+    In Tadaka's wild wood, content.
+    And the grove shone that happy day,
+    Freed from the curse that on it lay--
+    Like Chaitraratha fair and gay.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXIX
+
+THE CELESTIAL ARMS
+
+    That night they slept and took their rest;
+    And then the mighty saint addressed,
+    With pleasant smile and accents mild
+    These words to Raghu's princely child:--
+    "Well pleased am I. High fate be thine,
+    Thou scion of a royal line.
+    Now will I, for I love thee so,
+    All heavenly arms on thee bestow.
+    Victor with these, whoe'er oppose,
+    Thy hand shall conquer all thy foes--
+    Though Gods and spirits of the air,
+    Serpents and fiends, the conflict dare.
+    I'll give thee as a pledge of love
+    The mystic arms they use above,
+    For worthy thou to have revealed
+    The weapons I have learnt to wield.
+    First, son of Raghu, shall be thine
+    The arm of Vengeance, strong, divine:
+    The arm of Fate, the arm of Right,
+    And Vishnu's arm of awful might:--
+    That, before which no foe can stand,
+    The thunderbolt of Indra's hand;
+    And Siva's trident, sharp and dread,
+    And that dire weapon, Brahma's Head.
+    And two fair clubs, O royal child,
+    One Charmer and one Pointed styled--
+    With flame of lambent fire aglow,
+    On thee, O Chieftain, I bestow.
+    And Fate's dread net and Justice' noose
+    That none may conquer, for thy use:--
+    And the great cord, renowned of old,
+    Which Varun ever loves to hold.
+    Take these two thunderbolts, which I
+    Have got for thee, the Moist and Dry.
+    Here Siva's dart to thee I yield,
+    And that which Vishnu wont to wield.
+    I give to thee the arm of Fire,
+    Desired by all and named the Spire.
+    To thee I grant the Wind-God's dart,
+    Named Crusher, O thou pure of heart.
+    This arm, the Horse's Head, accept,
+    And this, the Curlew's Bill yclept,
+    And these two spears, the best e'er flew,
+    Named the Invincible and True.
+    And arms of fiends I make thine own,
+    Skull-wreath and mace that smashes bone.
+    And Joyous, which the spirits bear,
+    Great weapon of the sons of air.
+    Brave offspring of the best of lords,
+    I give thee now the Gem of swords--
+    And offer next, thine hand to arm,
+    The heavenly bard's beloved charm.
+    Now with two arms I thee invest
+    Of never-ending Sleep and Rest--
+    With weapons of the Sun and Rain,
+    And those that dry and burn amain;
+    And strong Desire with conquering touch,
+    The dart that Kama prizes much.
+    I give the arm of shadowy powers
+    That bleeding flesh of man devours.
+    I give the arms the God of Gold
+    And giant fiends exult to hold.
+    This smites the foe in battle-strife,
+    And takes his fortune, strength, and life.
+    I give the arms called False and True,
+    And great Illusion give I too;
+    The hero's arm called Strong and Bright
+    That spoils the foeman's strength in fight.
+    I give thee as a priceless boon
+    The Dew, the weapon of the Moon,
+    And add the weapon, deftly planned,
+    That strengthens Visvakarma's hand.
+    The Mortal dart whose point is chill,
+    And Slaughter, ever sure to kill;
+    All these and other arms, for thou
+    Art very dear, I give thee now.
+    Receive these weapons from my hand,
+    Son of the noblest in the land."
+    Facing the east, the glorious saint
+    Pure from all spot of earthly taint,
+    To Rama, with delighted mind,
+    That noble host of spells consigned.
+    He taught the arms, whose lore is won
+    Hardly by Gods, to Raghu's son.
+    He muttered low the spell whose call
+    Summons those arms and rules them all--
+    And each, in visible form and frame,
+    Before the monarch's son they came.
+    They stood and spoke in reverent guise
+    To Rama with exulting cries:--
+    "O noblest child of Raghu, see,
+    Thy ministers and thralls are we."
+    With joyful heart and eager hand
+    Rama received the wondrous band,
+    And thus with words of welcome cried:--
+    "Aye present to my will abide"--
+    Then hasted to the saint to pay
+    Due reverence, and pursued his way.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXX
+
+THE MYSTERIOUS POWERS
+
+
+    Pure, with glad cheer and joyful breast,
+    Of those mysterious arms possessed,
+    Rama, now passing on his way,
+    Thus to the saint began to say:--
+    "Lord of these mighty weapons, I
+    Can scarce be harmed by Gods on high;
+    Now, best of saints, I long to gain
+    The powers that can these arms restrain."
+    Thus spoke the prince. The sage austere,
+    True to his vows, from evil clear,
+    Called forth the names of those great charms
+    Whose powers restrain the deadly arms.
+    "Receive thou True and Truly-famed,
+    And Bold and Fleet: the weapons named
+    Warder and Progress, swift of pace,
+    Averted-head and Drooping-face;
+    The Seen, and that which Secret flies--
+    The weapon of the thousand eyes;
+    Ten-headed, and the Hundred-faced,
+    Star-gazer and the Layer-waste;
+    The Omen-bird, the Pure-from-spot,
+    The pair that wake and slumber not;
+    The Fiendish, that which shakes amain,
+    The Strong-of-Hand, the Rich-in-Gain;
+    The Guardian, and the Close-allied,
+    The Gaper, Love, and Golden-side:--
+    O Raghu's son receive all these,
+    Bright ones that wear what forms they please;
+    Krisasva's mystic sons are they,
+    And worthy thou their might to sway."
+    With joy the pride of Raghu's race
+    Received the hermit's proffered grace--
+    Mysterious arms, to check and stay,
+    Or smite the foeman in the fray.
+    Then, all with heavenly forms endued,
+    Nigh came the wondrous multitude.
+    Celestial in their bright attire
+    Some shone like coals of burning fire--
+    Some were like clouds of dusky smoke;
+    And suppliant thus they sweetly spoke:--
+    "Thy thralls, O Rama, here we stand--
+    Command, we pray, thy faithful band."
+    "Depart," he cried, "where each may list,
+    But when I call you to assist,
+    Be present to my mind with speed,
+    And aid me in the hour of need."
+
+    To Rama then they lowly bent,
+    And round him in due reverence went--
+    To his command they answered, "Yea,"
+    And as they came so went away.
+    When thus the arms had homeward flown,
+    With pleasant words and modest tone,
+    E'en as he walked, the prince began
+    To question thus the holy man:--
+    "What cloudlike wood is that which near
+    The mountain's side I see appear?
+    O tell me, for I long to know:
+    Its pleasant aspect charms me so.
+    Its glades are full of deer at play,
+    And sweet birds sing on every spray.
+    Passed is the hideous wild--I feel
+    So sweet a tremor o'er me steal--
+    And hail with transport fresh and new
+    A land that is so fair to view.
+    Then tell me all, thou holy Sage,
+    And whose this pleasant hermitage
+    In which those wicked ones delight
+    To mar and kill each holy rite--
+    And with foul heart and evil deed
+    Thy sacrifice, great Saint, impede.
+    To whom, O Sage, belongs this land
+    In which thine altars ready stand?
+    'Tis mine to guard them, and to slay
+    The giants who the rites would stay.
+    All this, O best of saints, I burn
+    From thine own lips, my lord, to learn."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXXI
+
+THE PERFECT HERMITAGE
+
+
+    Thus spoke the prince of boundless might,
+    And thus replied the anchorite:--
+    "Chief of the mighty arm, of yore
+    Lord Vishnu, whom the Gods adore
+    For holy thought and rites austere,
+    Of penance made his dwelling here.
+    This ancient wood was called of old
+    Grove of the Dwarf, the mighty-souled--
+    And when perfection he attained
+    The grove the name of Perfect gained.
+    Bali of yore, Virochan's son,
+    Dominion over Indra won--
+    And when with power his proud heart swelled,
+    O'er the three worlds his empire held.
+    When Bali then began a rite,
+    The Gods and Indra in affright
+    Sought Vishnu in this place of rest,
+    And thus with prayers the God addressed:--
+    'Bali, Virochan's mighty son,
+    His sacrifice has now begun:
+    Of boundless wealth, that demon king
+    Is bounteous to each living thing.
+    Though suppliants flock from every side
+    The suit of none is e'er denied.
+    Whate'er, where'er, howe'er the call,
+    He hears the suit and gives to all.
+    Now with thine own illusive art
+    Perform, O Lord, the helper's part:
+    Assume a dwarfish form, and thus
+    From fear and danger rescue us.'
+    Thus in their dread the Immortals sued
+    The God, a dwarfish shape indued:--
+    Before Virochan's son he came,
+    Three steps of land his only claim.
+    The boon obtained, in wondrous wise
+    Lord Vishnu's form increased in size;
+    Through all the worlds, tremendous, vast,
+    God of the Triple Step, he passed.
+    The whole broad earth from side to side
+    He measured with one mighty stride--
+    Spanned with the next the firmament,
+    And with the third through heaven he went.
+    Thus was the king of demons hurled
+    By Vishnu to the nether world--
+    And thus the universe restored
+    To Indra's rule, its ancient lord.
+    And now because the Immortal God
+    This spot in dwarflike semblance trod,
+    The grove has aye been loved by me
+    For reverence of the devotee.
+    But demons haunt it, prompt to stay
+    Each holy offering I would pay.
+    Be thine, O lion-lord, to kill
+    These giants that delight in ill.
+    This day, beloved child, our feet
+    Shall rest within the calm retreat;
+    And know, thou chief of Raghu's line,
+    My hermitage is also thine."
+    He spoke; and soon the anchorite,
+    With joyous looks that beamed delight,
+    With Rama and his brother stood
+    Within the consecrated wood.
+    Soon as they saw the holy man,
+    With one accord together ran
+    The dwellers in the sacred shade,
+    And to the saint their reverence paid--
+    And offered water for his feet,
+    The gift of honor, and a seat;
+    And next with hospitable care
+    They entertained the princely pair.
+    The royal tamers of their foes
+    Rested awhile in sweet repose--
+    Then to the chief of hermits sued
+    Standing in suppliant attitude:--
+    "Begin, O best of saints, we pray,
+    Initiatory rites to-day.
+    This Perfect Grove shall be anew
+    Made perfect, and thy words be true."
+
+    Then, thus addressed, the holy man,
+    The very glorious sage, began
+    The high preliminary rite,
+    Restraining sense and appetite.
+    Calmly the youths that night reposed,
+    And rose when morn her light disclosed--
+    Their morning worship paid, and took
+    Of lustral water from the brook.
+    Thus purified they breathed the prayer,
+    Then greeted Visvamitra where
+    As celebrant he sate beside
+    The flame with sacred oil supplied.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXXII
+
+VISVAMITRA'S SACRIFICE
+
+    That conquering pair, of royal race,
+    Skilled to observe due time and place--
+    To Kusik's hermit son addressed,
+    In timely words, their meet request:--
+    "When must we, lord, we pray thee tell,
+    Those Rovers of the Night repel?
+    Speak, lest we let the moment fly,
+    And pass the due occasion by."
+    Thus longing for the strife, they prayed,
+    And thus the hermit's answer made:--
+    "Till the fifth day be come and past,
+    O Raghu's sons, your watch must last.
+    The saint his Diksha has begun,
+    And all that time will speak to none."
+    Soon as the steadfast devotees
+    Had made reply in words like these,
+    The youths began, disdaining sleep,
+    Six days and nights their watch to keep--
+    The warrior pair who tamed the foe,
+    Unrivalled benders of the bow,
+    Kept watch and ward unwearied still
+    To guard the saint from scathe and ill.
+    Twas now the sixth returning day,
+    The hour foretold had passed away.
+    Then Rama cried: "O Lakshman, now!
+    Firm, watchful, resolute be thou.
+    The fiends as yet have kept afar
+    From the pure grove in which we are;
+    Yet waits us, ere the day shall close,
+    Dire battle with the demon foes."
+    While thus spoke Rama, borne away
+    By longing for the deadly fray,
+    See! bursting from the altar came
+    The sudden glory of the flame;
+    Round priest and deacon, and upon
+    Grass, ladles, flowers, the splendor shone--
+    And the high rite, in order due,
+    With sacred texts began anew.
+    But then a loud and fearful roar
+    Re-echoed through the sky;
+    And like vast clouds that shadow o'er
+    The heavens in dark July,
+    Involved in gloom of magic might
+    Two fiends rushed on amain--
+    Maricha, Rover of the Night,
+    Suvahu, and their train.
+    As on they came in wild career
+    Thick blood in rain they shed;
+    And Rama saw those things of fear
+    Impending overhead. Then, soon as those accursed two
+    Who showered down blood he spied,
+    Thus to his brother brave and true
+    Spoke Rama lotus-eyed:--
+    "Now, Lakshman, thou these fiends shalt see,
+    Man-eaters, foul of mind,
+    Before my mortal weapon flee
+    Like clouds before the wind."
+    He spoke. An arrow, swift as thought,
+    Upon his bow he pressed,
+    And smote, to utmost fury wrought,
+    Maricha on the breast.
+    Deep in his flesh the weapon lay
+    Winged by the mystic spell,
+    And, hurled a hundred leagues away,
+    In ocean's flood he fell.
+    Then Rama, when he saw the foe
+    Convulsed and mad with pain
+    'Neath the chill-pointed weapon's blow,
+    To Lakshman spoke again:--
+    "See, Lakshman, see! this mortal dart
+    That strikes a numbing chill,
+    Hath struck him senseless with the smart,
+    But left him breathing still.
+    But these who love the evil way
+    And drink the blood they spill,
+    Rejoicing holy rites to stay,
+    Fierce plagues, my hand shall kill."
+    He seized another shaft, the best,
+    Aglow with living flame;
+    It struck Suvahu on the chest,
+    And dead to earth he came.
+    Again a dart, the Wind-God's own,
+    Upon his string he laid,
+    And all the demons were overthrown--
+    The saints no more afraid.
+    When thus the fiends were slain in fight,
+    Disturbers of each holy rite,
+    Due honor by the saints was paid
+    To Rama for his wondrous aid:--
+    So Indra is adored when he
+    Has won some glorious victory.
+    Success at last the rite had crowned,
+    And Visvamitra gazed around--
+    And seeing every side at rest,
+    The son of Raghu thus addressed:--
+    "My joy, O Prince, is now complete--
+    Thou hast obeyed my will:
+    Perfect before, this calm retreat
+    Is now more perfect still."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXXIII
+
+THE SONE
+
+    Their task achieved, the princes spent
+    That night with joy and full content.
+    Ere yet the dawn was well displayed
+    Their morning rites they duly paid--
+    And sought, while yet the light was faint,
+    The hermits and the mighty saint.
+    They greeted first that holy sire
+    Resplendent like the burning fire,
+    And then with noble words began
+    Their sweet speech to the sainted man:--
+    "Here stand, O lord, thy servants true--
+    Command what thou wouldst have us do."
+    The saints, by Visvamitra led,
+    To Rama thus in answer said:--
+    "Janak, the king who rules the land
+    Of fertile Mithila, has planned
+    A noble sacrifice, and we
+    Will thither go the rite to see.
+    Thou, Prince of men, with us shalt go,
+    And there behold the wondrous bow--
+    Terrific, vast, of matchless might,
+    Which, splendid at the famous rite,
+    The Gods assembled gave the King.
+    No giant, fiend, or God can string
+    That gem of bows, no heavenly bard;
+    Then, sure, for man the task were hard.
+    When lords of earth have longed to know
+    The virtue of that wondrous bow,
+    The strongest sons of kings in vain
+    Have tried the mighty cord to strain.
+    This famous bow thou there shalt view,
+    And wondrous rites shalt witness too.
+    The high-souled king who lords it o'er
+    The realm of Mithila, of yore
+    Gained from the Gods this bow, the price
+    Of his imperial sacrifice.
+    Won by the rite the glorious prize
+    Still in his royal palace lies--
+    Laid up in oil of precious scent
+    With aloes-wood and incense blent."
+    Then Rama answering, "Be it so,"
+    Made ready with the rest to go.
+    The saint himself was now prepared,
+    But ere beyond the grove he fared,
+    He turned him and in words like these
+    Addressed the sylvan deities:--
+    "Farewell! each holy rite complete,
+    I leave the hermits' perfect seat:
+    To Ganga's northern shore I go
+    Beneath Himalaya's peaks of snow."
+    With reverent steps he paced around
+    The limits of the holy ground--
+    And then the mighty saint set forth
+    And took his journey to the north.
+    His pupils, deep in Scripture's page,
+    Followed behind the holy sage,
+    And servants from the sacred grove
+    A hundred wains for convoy drove.
+    The very birds that winged that air,
+    The very deer that harbored there,
+    Forsook the glade and leafy brake
+    And followed for the hermits' sake.
+    They travelled far, till in the west
+    The sun was speeding to his rest,
+    And made, their portioned journey o'er,
+    Their halt on Sona's distant shore.
+    The hermits bathed when sank the sun,
+    And every rite was duly done--
+    Oblations paid to Fire, and then
+    Sate round their chief the holy men.
+    Rama and Lakshman lowly bowed
+    In reverence to the hermit crowd--
+    And Rama, having sate him down
+    Before the saint of pure renown,
+    With humble palms together laid
+    His eager supplication made:--
+    "What country, O my lord, is this,
+    Fair-smiling in her wealth and bliss?
+    Deign fully, O thou mighty Seer,
+    To tell me, for I long to hear."
+    Moved by the prayer of Rama, he
+    Told forth the country's history.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXXIV
+
+BRAHMADATTA
+
+    A king of Brahma's seed who bore
+    The name of Kusa reigned of yore.
+    Just, faithful to his vows, and true,
+    He held the good in honor due.
+    His bride, a queen of noble name,
+    Of old Vidarbha's monarchs came.
+    Like their own father, children four,
+    All valiant boys, the lady bore.
+    In glorious deeds each nerve they strained,
+    And well their Warrior part sustained.
+    To them most just, and true, and brave,
+    Their father thus his counsel gave:--
+    "Beloved children, ne'er forget
+    Protection is a prince's debt:
+    The noble work at once begin,
+    High virtue and her fruits to win."
+    The youths, to all the people dear,
+    Received his speech with willing ear;
+    And each went forth his several way,
+    Foundations of a town to lay.
+    Kusamba, prince of high renown,
+    Was builder of Kausambi's town,
+    And Kusanabha, just and wise,
+    Bade high Mahodaya's towers arise.
+    Amurtarajas chose to dwell
+    In Dharmaranya's citadel,
+    And Vasu bade his city fair
+    The name of Girivraja bear.
+    This fertile spot whereon we stand
+    Was once the high-souled Vasu's land.
+    Behold! as round we turn our eyes,
+    Five lofty mountain peaks arise.
+    See! bursting from her parent hill,
+    Sumagadhi, a lovely rill,
+    Bright gleaming as she flows between
+    The mountains, like a wreath is seen--
+    And then through Magadh's plains and groves
+    With many a fair meander roves.
+    And this was Vasu's old domain,
+    The fertile Magadh's broad champaign,
+    Which smiling fields of tilth adorn
+    And diadem with golden corn.
+    The queen Ghritachi, nymph most fair,
+    Married to Kusanabha, bare
+    A hundred daughters lovely faced,
+    With every charm and beauty graced.
+    It chanced the maidens, bright and gay
+    As lightning-flashes on a day
+    Of rain-time, to the garden went
+    With song and play and merriment--
+    And there in gay attire they strayed,
+    And danced, and laughed, and sang, and played.
+    The God of Wind who roves at will
+    All places, as he lists, to fill,
+    Saw the young maidens dancing there,
+    Of faultless shape and mien most fair--
+    "I love you all, sweet girls," he cried,
+    "And each shall be my darling bride.
+    Forsake, forsake your mortal lot,
+    And gain a life that withers not.
+    A fickle thing is youth's brief span,
+    And more than all is mortal man.
+    Receive unending youth, and be
+    Immortal, O my loves, with me,"
+    The hundred girls, to wonder stirred,
+    The wooing of the Wind-God heard,
+    Laughed, as a jest, his suit aside,
+    And with one voice they thus replied:--
+    "O mighty Wind, free spirit who
+    All life pervadest, through and through--
+    Thy wondrous power we maidens know;
+    Then wherefore wilt thou mock us so?
+    Our sire is Kusanabha, King;
+    And we, forsooth, have charms to bring
+    A God to woo us from the skies;
+    But honor first we maidens prize.
+    Far may the hour, we pray, be hence,
+    When we, O thou of little sense,
+    Our truthful father's choice refuse,
+    And for ourselves our husbands choose.
+    Our honored sire our lord we deem,
+    He is to us a God supreme--
+    And they to whom his high decree
+    May give us shall our husbands be."
+
+    He heard the answer they returned,
+    And mighty rage within him burned.
+    On each fair maid a blast he sent--
+    Each stately form he bowed and bent.
+    Bent double by the Wind-God's ire
+    They sought the palace of their sire,
+    There fell upon the ground with sighs,
+    While tears and shame were in their eyes.
+    The King himself, with, troubled brow,
+    Saw his dear girls so fair but now,
+    A mournful sight all bent and bowed--
+    And grieving, thus he cried aloud:--
+    "What fate is this, and what the cause?
+    What wretch has scorned all heavenly laws?
+    Who thus your forms could curve and break?
+    You struggle, but no answer make."
+    They heard the speech of that wise king
+    Of their misfortune questioning.
+    Again the hundred maidens sighed,
+    Touched with their heads his feet, and cried:--
+    "The God of Wind, pervading space,
+    Would bring on us a foul disgrace,
+    And choosing folly's evil way
+    From virtue's path in scorn would stray.
+    But we in words like these reproved
+    The God of Wind whom passion moved:--
+    'Farewell, O Lord! A sire have we,
+    No women uncontrolled and free.
+    Go, and our sire's consent obtain
+    If thou our maiden hands wouldst gain.
+    No self-dependent life we live:
+    If we offend, our fault forgive,'
+    But led by folly as a slave,
+    He would not hear the rede we gave,
+    And even as we gently spoke
+    We felt the Wind-God's crushing stroke."
+    The pious King, with grief distressed,
+    The noble hundred thus addressed:--
+    "With patience, daughters, bear your fate,
+    Yours was a deed supremely great
+    When with one mind you kept from shame
+    The honor of your father's name.
+    Patience, when men their anger vent,
+    Is woman's praise and ornament;
+    Yet when the Gods inflict the blow
+    Hard is it to support the woe.
+    Patience, my girls, exceeds all price--
+    'Tis alms, and truth, and sacrifice.
+    Patience is virtue, patience fame:
+    Patience upholds this earthly frame.
+    And now, I think, is come the time
+    To wed you in your maiden prime.
+    Now, daughters, go where'er you will:
+    Thoughts for your good my mind shall fill."
+    The maidens went, consoled, away:--
+    The best of kings, that very day,
+    Summoned his ministers of state
+    About their marriage to debate.
+    Since then, because the Wind-God bent
+    The damsels' forms for punishment,
+    That royal town is known to fame
+    By Kanyakubja's borrowed name.
+
+    There lived a sage called Chuli then,
+    Devoutest of the sons of men;
+    His days in penance rites he spent,
+    A glorious saint, most continent.
+    To him absorbed in tasks austere
+    The child of Urmila draw near--
+    Sweet Somada, the heavenly maid,
+    And lent the saint her pious aid.
+    Long time near him the maiden spent,
+    And served him meek and reverent,
+    Till the great hermit, pleased with her,
+    Thus spoke unto his minister:--
+    "Grateful am I for all thy care--
+    Blest maiden, speak, thy wish declare."
+    The sweet-voiced nymph rejoiced to see
+    The favor of the devotee,
+    And to that excellent old man,
+    Most eloquent she thus began:--
+    "Thou hast, by heavenly grace sustained,
+    Close union with the Godhead gained.
+    I long, O Saint, to see a son
+    By force of holy penance won.
+    Unwed, a maiden life I live:
+    A son to me, thy suppliant, give."
+    The saint with favor heard her prayer,
+    And gave a son exceeding fair.
+    Him, Chuli's spiritual child,
+    His mother Brahmadatta styled.
+    King Brahmadatta, rich and great,
+    In Kampili maintained his state--
+    Ruling, like Indra in his bliss,
+    His fortunate metropolis.
+    King Kusanabha planned that he
+    His hundred daughters' lord should be.
+    To him, obedient to his call,
+    The happy monarch gave them all.
+    Like Indra then he took the hand
+    Of every maiden of the band.
+    Soon as the hand of each young maid
+    In Brahmadatta's palm was laid,
+    Deformity and cares away,
+    She shone in beauty bright and gay.
+    Their freedom from the Wind-God's might
+    Saw Kusanabha with delight.
+    Each glance that on their forms he threw
+    Filled him with raptures ever new.
+    Then when the rites were all complete,
+    With highest marks of honor meet
+    The bridegroom with his brides he sent
+    To his great seat of government.
+    The nymph received with pleasant speech
+    Her daughters; and, embracing each,
+    Upon their forms she fondly gazed,
+    And royal Kusanabha praised.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXXV
+
+VISVAMITRA'S LINEAGE
+
+    The rites were o'er, the maids were wed,
+    The bridegroom to his home was sped.
+    The sonless monarch bade prepare
+    A sacrifice to gain an heir.
+    Then Kusa, Brahma's son, appeared,
+    And thus King Kusanabha cheered:--
+    'Thou shalt, my child, obtain a son
+    Like thine own self, O holy one.
+    Through him forever, Gadhi named,
+    Shalt thou in all the worlds be famed.'
+    He spoke and vanished from the sight
+    To Brahma's world of endless light.
+    Time fled, and, as the saint foretold,
+    Gadhi was born, the holy-souled.
+    My sire was he; through him I trace
+    My line from royal Kusa's race.
+    My sister--elder-born was she--
+    The pure and good Satyavati,
+    Was to the great Richika wed.
+    Still faithful to her husband dead,
+    She followed him, most noble dame,
+    And, raised to heaven in human frame,
+    A pure celestial stream became.
+    Down from Himalaya's snowy height,
+    In floods forever fair and bright,
+    My sister's holy waves are hurled
+    To purify and glad the world.
+    Now on Himalaya's side I dwell
+    Because I love my sister well.
+    She, for her faith and truth renowned,
+    Most loving to her husband found,
+    High-fated, firm in each pure vow,
+    Is queen of all the rivers now.
+    Bound by a vow I left her side
+    And to the Perfect convent hied.
+    There, by the aid 'twas thine to lend,
+    Made perfect, all my labors end.
+    Thus, mighty Prince, I now have told
+    My race and lineage, high and old,
+    And local tales of long ago
+    Which thou, O Rama, fain wouldst know.
+    As I have sate rehearsing thus
+    The midnight hour is come on us.
+    Now, Rama, sleep, that nothing may
+    Our journey of to-morrow stay.
+    No leaf on any tree is stirred--
+    Hushed in repose are beast and bird:
+    Where'er you turn, on every side,
+    Dense shades of night the landscape hide.
+    The light of eve is fled: the skies,
+    Thick-studded with their host of eyes,
+    Seem a star-forest overhead,
+    Where signs and constellations spread.
+    Now rises, with his pure cold ray,
+    The moon that drives the shades away,
+    And with his gentle influence brings
+    Joy to the hearts of living things.
+    Now, stealing from their lairs, appear
+    The beasts to whom the night is dear.
+    Now spirits walk, and every power
+    That revels in the midnight hour."
+
+    The mighty hermit's tale was o'er,
+    He closed his lips and spoke no more.
+    The holy men on every side,
+    "Well done! well done," with reverence cried,
+    "The mighty men of Kusa's seed
+    Were ever famed for righteous deed.
+    Like Brahma's self in glory shine
+    The high-souled lords of Kusa's line.
+    And thy great name is sounded most,
+    O Saint, amid the noble host.
+    And thy dear sister--fairest she
+    Of streams, the high-born Kausiki--
+    Diffusing virtue where she flows,
+    New splendor on thy lineage throws."
+    Thus by the chief of saints addressed
+    The son of Gadhi turned to rest;
+    So, when his daily course is done,
+    Sinks to his rest the beaming sun.
+    Rama, with Lakshman, somewhat stirred
+    To marvel by the tales they heard,
+    Turned also to his couch, to close
+    His eyelids in desired repose.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXXVI
+
+THE BIRTH OF GANGA
+
+    The hours of night now waning fast
+    On Sona's pleasant shore they passed.
+    Then, when the dawn began to break.
+    To Rama thus the hermit spake:--
+    "The light of dawn is breaking clear,
+    The hour of morning rites is near.
+    Rise, Rama, rise, dear son, I pray,
+    And make thee ready for the way."
+    Then Rama rose, and finished all
+    His duties at the hermit's call--
+    Prepared with joy the road to take,
+    And thus again in question spake:--
+    "Here fair and deep the Sona flows,
+    And many an isle its bosom shows:
+    What way, O Saint, will lead us o'er
+    And land us on the farther shore?"
+    The saint replied: "The way I choose
+    Is that which pious hermits use."
+    For many a league they journeyed on
+    Till, when the sun of mid-day shone,
+    The hermit-haunted flood was seen
+    Of Jahnavi, the Rivers' Queen.
+    Soon as the holy stream they viewed,
+    Thronged with a white-winged multitude
+    Of sarases and swans, delight
+    Possessed them at the lovely sight;
+    And then prepared the hermit band
+    To halt upon that holy strand.
+    They bathed as Scripture bids, and paid
+    Oblations due to God and shade.
+    To Fire they burnt the offerings meet,
+    And sipped the oil, like Amrit sweet.
+    Then pure and pleased they sate around
+    Saint Visvamitra, on the ground.
+    The holy men of lesser note,
+    In due degree, sate more remote,
+    While Raghu's sons took nearer place
+    By virtue of their rank and race.
+    Then Rama said: "O Saint, I yearn
+    The three-pathed Ganga's tale to learn."
+
+    Thus urged, the sage recounted both
+    The birth of Ganga and her growth:--
+    "The mighty hill with metals stored,
+    Himalaya, is the mountains' lord,
+    The father of a lovely pair
+    Of daughters fairest of the fair--
+    Their mother, offspring of the will
+    Of Meru, everlasting hill,
+    Mena, Himalaya's darling, graced
+    With beauty of her dainty waist.
+    Ganga was elder-born:--then came
+    The fair one known by Uma's name.
+    Then all the Gods of heaven, in need
+    Of Ganga's help their vows to speed,
+    To great Himalaya came and prayed
+    The Mountain King to yield the maid.
+    He, not regardless of the weal
+    Of the three worlds, with holy zeal
+    His daughter to the Immortals gave,
+    Ganga whose waters cleanse and save--
+    Who roams at pleasure, fair and free,
+    Purging all sinners, to the sea.
+    The three-pathed Ganga thus obtained,
+    The Gods their heavenly homes regained.
+    Long time the sister Uma passed
+    In vows austere and rigid fast,
+    And the King gave the devotee
+    Immortal Rudra's bride to be--
+    Matching with that unequalled Lord
+    His Uma through the worlds adored.
+    So now a glorious station fills
+    Each daughter of the King of Hills--
+    One honored as the noblest stream,
+    One mid the Goddesses supreme.
+    Thus Ganga, King Himalaya's child,
+    The heavenly river, undefiled,
+    Rose bearing with her to the sky
+    Her waves that bless and purify."
+
+
+[_Cantos XXXVII and XXXVIII are omitted._]
+
+
+CANTO XXXIX
+
+THE SONS OF SAGAR
+
+    The saint in accents sweet and clear
+    Thus told his tale for Rama's ear--
+    And thus anew the holy man
+    A legend to the prince began:--
+    "There reigned a pious monarch o'er
+    Ayodhya in the days of yore:
+    Sagar his name:--no child had he,
+    And children much he longed to see.
+    His honored consort, fair of face,
+    Sprang from Vidarbha's royal race--
+    Kesini, famed from early youth
+    For piety and love of truth.
+    Arishtanemi's daughter fair,
+    With whom no maiden might compare
+    In beauty, though the earth is wide,
+    Sumati, was his second bride.
+    With his two queens afar he went,
+    And weary days in penance spent,
+    Fervent, upon Himalaya's hill
+    Where springs the stream called Bhrigu's rill.
+    Nor did he fail that saint to please
+    With his devout austerities,
+    And, when a hundred years had fled,
+    Thus the most truthful Bhrigu said:--
+    'From thee, O Sagar, blameless King,
+    A mighty host of sons shall spring,
+    And thou shalt win a glorious name
+    Which none, O Chief, but thou shall claim.
+    One of thy queens a son shall bear
+    Maintainer of thy race and heir;
+    And of the other there shall be
+    Sons sixty thousand born to thee.'
+    Thus as he spake, with one accord,
+    To win the grace of that high lord,
+    The queens, with palms together laid,
+    In humble supplication prayed:--
+    'Which queen, O Brahman, of the pair,
+    The many, or the one shall bear?
+    Most eager, Lord, are we to know,
+    And as thou sayest be it so,'
+    With his sweet speech the saint replied:--
+    'Yourselves, O Queens, the choice decide.
+    Your own discretion freely use
+    Which shall the one or many choose:
+    One shall the race and name uphold,
+    The host be famous, strong, and bold.
+    Which will have which?' Then Kesini
+    The mother of one heir would be.
+    Sumati, sister of the King
+    Of all the birds that ply the wing,
+    To that illustrious Brahman sued
+    That she might bear the multitude--
+    Whose fame throughout the world should sound
+    For mighty enterprise renowned.
+    Around the saint the monarch went,
+    Bowing his head, most reverent.
+    Then with his wives, with willing feet,
+    Resought his own imperial seat,
+    Time passed. The elder consort bare
+    A son called Asamanj, the heir.
+    Then Sumati, the younger, gave
+    Birth to a gourd, O hero brave,
+    Whose rind, when burst and cleft in two,
+    Gave sixty thousand babes to view.
+    All these with care the nurses laid
+    In jars of oil; and there they stayed,
+    Till, youthful age and strength complete,
+    Forth speeding from each dark retreat--
+    All peers in valor, years, and might,
+    The sixty thousand came to light.
+    Prince Asamanj, brought up with care,
+    Scourge of his foes, was made the heir.
+    But liegemen's boys he used to cast
+    To Sarju's waves that hurried past--
+    Laughing the while in cruel glee
+    Their dying agonies to see.
+    This wicked prince who aye withstood
+    The counsel of the wise and good,
+    Who plagued the people in his hate,
+    His father banished from the state.
+    His son, kind-spoken, brave, and tall,
+    Was Ansuman, beloved of all.
+    Long years flew by. The King decreed
+    To slay a sacrificial steed.
+    Consulting with his priestly band
+    He vowed the rite his soul had planned,
+    And, Veda-skilled, by their advice
+    Made ready for the sacrifice."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XL
+
+THE CLEAVING OF THE EARTH
+
+    The hermit ceased--the tale was done:--
+    Then in a transport Raghu's son
+    Again addressed the ancient sire
+    Resplendent as a burning fire:--
+    "O holy man, I fain would hear
+    The tale repeated full and clear
+    How he from whom my sires descend
+    Brought the great rite to happy end,"
+    The hermit answered with a smile:--
+    "Then listen, son of Raghu, while
+    My legendary tale proceeds
+    To tell of high-souled Sagar's deeds.
+    Within the spacious plain that lies
+    From where Himalaya's heights arise
+    To where proud Vindhya's rival chain
+    Looks down upon the subject plain--
+    A land the best for rites declared--
+    His sacrifice the king prepared.
+    And Ansuman the prince--for so
+    Sagar advised--with ready bow
+    Was borne upon a mighty car
+    To watch the steed who roamed afar.
+    But Indra, monarch of the skies,
+    Veiling his form in demon guise,
+    Came down upon the appointed day
+    And drove the victim horse away.
+    Reft of the steed the priests, distressed,
+    The master of the rite addressed:--
+    'Upon the sacred day by force
+    A robber takes the victim horse.
+    Haste, King! now let the thief be slain;
+    Bring thou the charger back again:
+    The sacred rite prevented thus
+    Brings scathe and woe to all of us.
+    Rise, Monarch, and provide with speed
+    That nought its happy course impede.'
+
+    King Sagar in his crowded court
+    Gave ear unto the priests' report.
+    He summoned straightway to his side
+    His sixty thousand sons, and cried:--
+    'Brave sons of mine, I know not how
+    These demons are so mighty now--
+    The priests began the rite so well
+    All sanctified with prayer and spell.
+    If in the depths of earth he hide,
+    Or lurk beneath the ocean's tide,
+    Pursue, dear sons, the robber's track;
+    Slay him and bring the charger back.
+    The whole of this broad earth explore,
+    Sea-garlanded, from shore to shore:
+    Yea, dig her up with might and main
+    Until you see the horse again.
+    Deep let your searching labor reach,
+    A league in depth dug out by each.
+    The robber of our horse pursue,
+    And please your sire who orders you.
+    My grandson, I, this priestly train,
+    Till the steed comes, will here remain.'
+
+    Their eager hearts with transport burned
+    As to their task the heroes turned.
+    Obedient to their father, they
+    Through earth's recesses forced their way.
+    With iron arms' unflinching toil
+    Each dug a league beneath the soil.
+    Earth, cleft asunder, groaned in pain,
+    As emulous they plied amain--
+    Sharp-pointed coulter, pick, and bar,
+    Hard as the bolts of Indra are.
+    Then loud the horrid clamor rose
+    Of monsters dying 'neath their blows,
+    Giant and demon, fiend and snake,
+    That in earth's core their dwelling make.
+    They dug, in ire that nought could stay,
+    Through sixty thousand leagues their way--
+    Cleaving the earth with matchless strength
+    Till hell itself they reached at length.
+    Thus digging searched they Jambudvip
+    With all its hills and mountains steep.
+    Then a great fear began to shake
+    The heart of God, bard, fiend, and snake--
+    And all distressed in spirit went
+    Before the Sire Omnipotent.
+    With signs of woe in every face
+    They sought the mighty Father's grace,
+    And trembling still and ill at ease
+    Addressed their Lord in words like these:--
+    'The sons of Sagar, Sire benign,
+    Pierce the whole earth with mine on mine,
+    And as their ruthless work they ply
+    Innumerable creatures die,'
+    'This is the thief,' the princes say,
+    'Who stole our victim steed away.
+    This marred the rite, and caused us ill.'
+    And so their guiltless blood they spill.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XLI
+
+KAPIL
+
+    "The Father lent a gracious ear
+    And listened to their tale of fear,
+    And kindly to the Gods replied
+    Whom woe and death had terrified:--
+    'The wisest Vasudeva, who
+    The Immortals' foe, fierce Madhu, slew,
+    Regards broad Earth with love and pride,
+    And guards, in Kapil's form, his bride.
+    His kindled wrath will quickly fall
+    On the King's sons and burn them all.
+    This cleaving of the earth his eye
+    Foresaw in ages long gone by:
+    He knew with prescient soul the fate
+    That Sagar's children should await.'
+    The Three-and-thirty, freed from fear,
+    Sought their bright homes with hopeful cheer.
+    Still rose the great tempestuous sound
+    As Sagar's children pierced the ground.
+    When thus the whole broad earth was cleft,
+    And not a spot unsearched was left,
+    Back to their home the princes sped,
+    And thus unto their father said:--
+    'We searched the earth from side to side,
+    While countless hosts of creatures died.
+    Our conquering feet in triumph trod
+    On snake and demon, fiend and God;
+    But yet we failed, with all our toil,
+    To find the robber and the spoil.
+    What can we more? If more we can,
+    Devise, O King, and tell thy plan,'
+    His children's speech King Sagar heard,
+    And answered thus, to anger stirred:--
+    'Dig on, and ne'er your labor stay
+    Till through earth's depths you force your way.
+    Then smite the robber dead, and bring
+    The charger back with triumphing.'
+
+    The sixty thousand chiefs obeyed--
+    Deep through the earth their way they made.
+    Deep as they dug and deeper yet
+    The immortal elephant they met--
+    Famed Virupaksha vast of size,
+    Upon whose head the broad earth lies:
+    The mighty beast who earth sustains
+    With shaggy hills and wooded plains.
+    When, with the changing moon, distressed,
+    And longing for a moment's rest,
+    His mighty head the monster shakes,
+    Earth to the bottom reels and quakes.
+    Around that warder strong and vast
+    With reverential steps they passed--
+    Nor, when the honor due was paid,
+    Their downward search through earth delayed.
+    But turning from the east aside
+    Southward again their task they plied.
+    There Mahapadma held his place,
+    The best of all his mighty race--
+    Like some huge hill, of monstrous girth,
+    Upholding on his head the earth.
+    When the vast beast the princes saw,
+    They marvelled and were filled with awe.
+    The sons of high-souled Sagar round
+    That elephant in reverence wound.
+    Then in the western region they
+    With might unwearied cleft their way.
+    There saw they with astonished eyes
+    Saumanas, beast of mountain size.
+    Round him with circling steps they went
+    With greetings kind and reverent.
+    On, on--no thought of rest or stay--
+    They reached the seat of Soma's sway.
+    There saw they Bhadra, white as snow,
+    With lucky marks that fortune show,
+    Bearing the earth upon his head.
+    Round him they paced with solemn tread,
+    And honored him with greetings kind;
+    Then downward yet their way they mined.
+    They gained the tract 'twixt east and north
+    Whose fame is ever blazoned forth,
+    And by a storm of rage impelled,
+    Digging through earth their course they held.
+    Then all the princes, lofty-souled,
+    Of wondrous vigor, strong and bold,
+    Saw Vasudeva standing there
+    In Kapil's form he loved to wear,
+    And near the everlasting God
+    The victim charger cropped the sod.
+    They saw with joy and eager eyes
+    The fancied robber and the prize,
+    And on him rushed the furious band
+    Crying aloud, 'Stand, villain! stand!'
+    'Avaunt! avaunt!' great Kapil cried,
+    His bosom flushed with passion's tide;
+    Then by his might that proud array
+    All scorched to heaps of ashes lay.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XLII
+
+SAGAR'S SACRIFICE
+
+    Then to the prince his grandson, bright
+    With his own fame's unborrowed light,
+    King Sagar thus began to say,
+    Marvelling at his sons' delay:--
+    'Thou art a warrior skilled and bold,
+    Match for the mighty men of old.
+    Now follow on thine uncles' course
+    And track the robber of the horse.
+    To guard thee take thy sword and bow,
+    For huge and strong are beasts below.
+    There to the reverend reverence pay,
+    And kill the foes who check thy way;
+    Then turn successful home and see
+    My sacrifice complete through thee.'
+
+    Obedient to the high-souled lord
+    Grasped Ansuman his bow and sword,
+    And hurried forth the way to trace
+    With youth and valor's eager pace.
+    On sped he by the path he found
+    Dug by his uncles underground.
+    The warder elephant he saw
+    Whose size and strength pass Nature's law--
+    Who bears the world's tremendous weight,
+    Whom God, fiend, giant, venerate.
+    Bird, serpent, and each flitting shade,
+    To him the honor meet he paid--
+    With circling steps and greeting due,
+    And further prayed him, if he knew,
+    To tell him of his uncles' weal,
+    And who had dared the horse to steal.
+
+    To him in war and council tried
+    The warder elephant replied:--
+    'Thou, son of Asamanj, shalt lead
+    In triumph back the rescued steed,'
+
+    As to each warder beast he came
+    And questioned all, his words the same,
+    The honored youth with gentle speech
+    Drew eloquent reply from each--
+    That fortune should his steps attend,
+    And with the horse he home should wend.
+    Cheered with the grateful answer, he
+    Passed on with step more light and free,
+    And reached with careless heart the place
+    Where lay in ashes Sagar's race.
+    Then sank the spirit of the chief
+    Beneath that shock of sudden grief--
+    And with a bitter cry of woe
+    He mourned his kinsmen fallen so.
+    He saw, weighed down by woe and care,
+    The victim charger roaming there.
+    Yet would the pious chieftain fain
+    Oblations offer to the slain:
+    But, needing water for the rite,
+    He looked and there was none in sight.
+    His quick eye searching all around
+    The uncle of his kinsmen found--
+    King Garud, best beyond compare
+    Of birds who wing the fields of air.
+    Then thus unto the weeping man
+    The son of Vinata began:--
+    'Grieve not, O hero, for their fall
+    Who died a death approved of all.
+    Of mighty strength, they met their fate
+    By Kapil's hand whom none can mate.
+    Pour forth for them no earthly wave,
+    A holier flood their spirits crave.
+    If, daughter of the Lord of Snow,
+    Ganga would turn her stream below,
+    Her waves that cleanse all mortal stain
+    Would wash their ashes pure again.
+    Yea, when her flood whom all revere
+    Rolls o'er the dust that moulders here,
+    The sixty thousand, freed from sin,
+    A home in Indra's heaven shall win.
+    Go, and with ceaseless labor try
+    To draw the Goddess from the sky.
+    Return, and with thee take the steed;
+    So shall thy grandsire's rite succeed,'
+
+    Prince Ansuman the strong and brave
+    Followed the rede Suparna gave.
+    The glorious hero took the horse,
+    And homeward quickly bent his course.
+    Straight to the anxious King he hied,
+    Whom lustral rites had purified--
+    The mournful story to unfold
+    And all the King of birds had told.
+    The tale of woe the monarch heard,
+    No longer was the rite deferred:
+    With care and just observance he
+    Accomplished all, as texts decree.
+    The rites performed, with brighter fame,
+    Mighty in counsel, home he came.
+    He longed to bring the river down,
+    But found no plan his wish to crown.
+    He pondered long with anxious thought,
+    But saw no way to what he sought.
+    Thus thirty thousand years he spent,
+    And then to heaven the monarch went.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XLIII
+
+BHAGIRATH
+
+    "When Sagar thus had bowed to fate,
+    The lords and commons of the state
+    Approved with ready heart and will
+    Prince Ansuman his throne to fill.
+    He ruled, a mighty king, unblamed,
+    Sire of Dilipa justly famed.
+    To him, his child and worthy heir,
+    The King resigned his kingdom's care,
+    And on Himalaya's pleasant side
+    His task austere of penance plied.
+    Bright as a God in clear renown
+    He planned to bring pure Ganga down.
+    There on his fruitless hope intent
+    Twice sixteen thousand years he spent,
+    And in the grove of hermits stayed
+    Till bliss in heaven his rites repaid.
+    Dilipa then, the good and great,
+    Soon as he learnt his kinsmen's fate,
+    Bowed down by woe, with troubled mind.
+    Pondering long no cure could find.
+    'How can I bring,' the mourner sighed,
+    'To cleanse their dust, the heavenly tide?
+    How can I give them rest, and save
+    Their spirits with the offered wave?'
+    Long with this thought his bosom skilled
+    In holy discipline was filled.
+    A son was born, Bhagirath named,
+    Above all men for virtue famed.
+    Dilipa many a rite ordained,
+    And thirty thousand seasons reigned.
+    But when no hope the king could see
+    His kinsmen from their woe to free,
+    The lord of men, by sickness tried,
+    Obeyed the law of fate, and died;
+    He left the kingdom to his son,
+    And gained the heaven his deeds had won.
+    The good Bhagirath, royal sage,
+    Had no fair son to cheer his age.
+    He, great in glory, pure in will,
+    Longing for sons was childless still.
+    Then on one wish, one thought intent,
+    Planning the heavenly stream's descent,
+    Leaving his ministers the care
+    And burden of his state to bear--
+    Dwelling in far Gokarna he
+    Engaged in long austerity.
+    With senses checked, with arms upraised,
+    Five fires around and o'er him blazed.
+    Each weary month the hermit passed
+    Breaking but once his awful fast.
+    In winter's chill the brook his bed,
+    In rain, the clouds to screen his head.
+    Thousands of years he thus endured
+    Till Brahma's favor was assured--
+    And the high Lord of living things
+    Looked kindly on his sufferings.
+    With trooping Gods the Sire came near
+    The King who plied his task austere:--
+    'Blest Monarch, of a glorious race,
+    Thy fervent rites have won my grace.
+    Well hast thou wrought thine awful task,
+    Some boon in turn, O Hermit, ask.'
+
+    Bhagirath, rich in glory's light,
+    The hero with the arm of might,
+    Thus to the Lord of earth and sky
+    Raised suppliant hands and made reply:--
+    'If the great God his favor deigns,
+    And my long toil its fruit obtains,
+    Let Sagar's sons receive from me
+    Libations that they long to see.
+    Let Ganga with her holy wave
+    The ashes of the heroes lave--
+    That so my kinsmen may ascend
+    To heavenly bliss that ne'er shall end.
+    And give, I pray, O God, a son,
+    Nor let my house be all undone.
+    Sire of the worlds! be this the grace
+    Bestowed upon Ikshvaku's race,'
+    The Sire, when thus the King had prayed,
+    In sweet kind words his answer made:--
+    'High, high thy thought and wishes are,
+    Bhagirath of the mighty car!
+    Ikshvaku's line is blest in thee,
+    And as thou prayest it shall be.
+    Ganga, whose waves in Swarga flow,
+    Is daughter of the Lord of Snow.
+    Win Siva that his aid be lent
+    To hold her in her mid-descent--
+    For earth alone will never bear
+    Those torrents hurled from upper air;
+    And none may hold her weight but He,
+    The Trident-wielding deity,'
+    Thus having said, the Lord supreme
+    Addressed him to the heavenly stream;
+    And then with Gods and Maruts went
+    To heaven, above the firmament."
+
+
+
+
+SAKOONTALA
+
+BY
+
+KALIDASA
+
+
+
+[_Translation by Sir Monier Monier-Williams_]
+
+
+INTRODUCTION
+
+
+The drama is always the latest development of a national poetry--for the
+origin of poetry is in the religious rite, where the hymn or the ode is
+used to celebrate the glories of some divinity, or some hero who has
+been received into the circle of the gods. This at least is the case in
+Sanscrit as in Greek literature, where the hymn and ballad precede the
+epic. The epic poem becomes the stable form of poetry during the middle
+period in the history of literature, both in India and Greece. The union
+of the lyric and the epic produces the drama. The speeches uttered by
+the heroes in such poems as the "Iliad" are put into the mouths of real
+personages who appear in sight of the audience and represent with
+fitting gestures and costumes the characters of the story. The dialogue
+is interspersed with songs or odes, which reach their perfection in the
+choruses of Sophocles.
+
+The drama is undoubtedly the most intellectual, as it is the most
+artificial, form of poetry. The construction of the plot, and the
+arrangement of the action, give room for the most thoughtful and
+deliberate display of genius. In this respect the Greek drama stands
+forth as most philosophically perfect. The drama, moreover, has always
+been by far the most popular form of poetry; because it aids, as much as
+possible, the imagination of the auditor, and for distinctness and
+clearness of impression stands preeminent above both the epic narrative
+and the emotional description of the lyric.
+
+The drama in India appears to have been a perfectly indigenous creation,
+although it was of very late development, and could not have appeared
+even so early as the Alexandrian pastorals which marked the last phase
+of Greek poetry. When it did appear, it never took the perfect form of
+the drama at Athens. It certainly borrowed as little from Greece as it
+did from China or Japan, and the Persians and Arabians do not appear to
+have produced any dramatic masterpieces. The greatest of dramatists in
+the Sanscrit language is undoubtedly Kalidasa, whose date is placed, by
+different scholars, anywhere from the first to the fifth century of our
+era. His masterpiece, and indeed the masterpiece of the Indian drama, is
+the "Sakoontala," which has all the graces as well as most of the faults
+of Oriental poetry. There can be no doubt that to most Europeans the
+charm of it lies in the exquisite description of natural scenery and of
+that atmosphere of piety and religious calm--almost mediaeval in its
+austere beauty and serenity--which invests the hermit life of India. The
+abode of the ascetics is depicted with a pathetic grace that we only
+find paralleled in the "Admetus" of Euripides. But at the same time the
+construction of the drama is more like such a play as Milton's "Comus,"
+than the closely-knit, symmetrical, and inevitable progress of such a
+work of consummate skill as the "King Oedipus" of Sophocles. Emotion,
+and generally the emotion of love, is the motive in the "Sakoontala" of
+Kalidasa, and different phases of feeling, rather than the struggles of
+energetic action, lead on to the _denouement_ of the play. The
+introduction of supernatural agencies controlling the life of the
+personages, leaves very little room for the development and description
+of human character. As the fate of the hero is dependent altogether upon
+the caprice of superhuman powers, the moral elements of a drama are but
+faintly discernible. Thus the central action of Sakoontala hinges on the
+fact that the heroine, absorbed in thoughts of love, neglects to welcome
+with due respect the great saint Durvasas--certainly a trifling and
+venial fault--but he is represented as blighting her with a curse which
+results in all the unhappiness of the drama, and which is only ended at
+last by the intervention of a more powerful being. By this principle of
+construction the characters are reduced to mere shadow creations:
+beautiful as arabesques, delicate as a piece of ivory carving, tinted
+like the flat profiles of an Oriental fan or the pattern of a porcelain
+vase, but deficient in robustness and vigorous coloring. Humanity is
+absolutely dwarfed and its powers rendered inoperative by the crowd of
+supernatural creatures that control its destiny. Even in the "Tempest"
+of Shakespeare, in which the supernatural plays a greater part than in
+any other English drama, the strength and nobility of human character
+are allowed full play--and man in his fortitude, in his intellect and
+will, even more than in his emotions, keeps full possession of the
+stage, and imparts a reality to every scene which makes the wildest
+flight of fancy bear a real relation to the common experiences of human
+life.
+
+The "Sakoontala" is divided into seven acts, and is a mixture of prose
+and verse;--each character rising in the intensity of emotional
+utterance into bursts of lyric poetry. The first act introduces the King
+of India, Dushyanta, armed with bow and arrows, in a chariot with his
+driver. They are passing through a forest in pursuit of a black
+antelope, which they fail to overtake before the voice of some hermit
+forbids them to slay the creature as it belongs to the hermitage. The
+king piously desists and reaches the hermitage of the great saint Kanwa,
+who has left his companions in charge of his foster-daughter,
+Sakoontala, while he is bound on a pilgrimage. Following these hermits
+the king finds himself within the precincts of a sacred grove, where
+rice is strewn on the ground to feed the parrots that nest in the hollow
+trunks, and where the unterrified antelopes do not start at the human
+voice. The king stops his chariot and alights, so as not to disturb the
+dwellers in the holy wood. He feels a sudden throb in his right arm,
+which augurs happy love, and sees hermit maidens approaching to sprinkle
+the young shrubs, with watering-pots suited to their strength. The forms
+of these hermit maidens eclipse those found in queenly halls, as the
+luxuriance of forest vines excels the trim vineyards of cultivation.
+Amongst these maidens the king, concealed by the trees, observes
+Sakoontala, dressed in the bark garment of a hermit--like a blooming bud
+enclosed within a sheath of yellow leaves. When she stands by the
+_kesara_-tree, the king is impressed by her beauty, and regrets that she
+is, if of a purely Brahmanic origin, forbidden to marry one of the
+warrior class, even though he be a king. A very pretty description is
+given of the pursuit of Sakoontala by a bee which her sprinkling has
+startled from a jasmine flower. From this bee she is rescued by the
+king, and is dismayed to find that the sight of the stranger affects her
+with an emotion unsuited to the holy grove. She hurries off with her two
+companions, but as she goes she declares that a prickly _kusa_-grass has
+stung her foot; a _kuruvaka_-bush has caught her garment, and while her
+companions disentangle it, she takes a long look at the king, who
+confesses that he cannot turn his mind from Sakoontala. This is the
+opening episode of their love.
+
+The second act introduces the king's jester, a Brahman on confidential
+terms with his master, who, while Dushyanta is thinking of love, is
+longing to get back to the city. He is tired of the hot jungle, the
+nauseating water of bitter mountain streams, the racket of fowlers at
+early dawn, and the eternal galloping, by which his joints are bruised.
+The king is equally tired of hunting, and confesses that he cannot bend
+his bow against those fawns which dwell near Sakoontala's abode, and
+have taught their tender glance to her. He calls back the beaters sent
+out to surround the forest, takes off his hunting-suit, and talks to the
+jester about the charms of Sakoontala--whom the Creator, he says, has
+formed by gathering in his mind all lovely shapes, so as to make a
+peerless woman-gem. He recalls the glance which she shot at him as she
+cried, "a _kusha-grass_ has stung my foot." Meanwhile two hermits
+approach him with the news that the demons have taken advantage of
+Kanwa's absence to disturb the sacrifices. They request him to take up
+his abode in the grove for a few days, in order to vanquish the enemies.
+A messenger arrives to tell him that his mother, in four days, will be
+offering a solemn sacrifice for her son's welfare, and invites his
+presence at the rite. But he cannot leave Sakoontala, and sends the
+jester Mathavya in his stead, telling him to say nothing about his love
+for Sakoontala.
+
+In the third act the love of the king and the hermit girl reaches its
+climax. The king is found walking in the hermitage, invoking the God of
+Love, whose shafts are flowers, though the flowery darts are hard as
+steel. "Mighty God of Love, hast Thou no pity on me?" What better
+relief, he asks, than the sight of my beloved? He traces Sakoontala, by
+the broken tubes which bore the blossoms she had culled, to the arbor,
+enclosed by the plantation of canes, and shaded by vines, at whose
+entrance he observes in the sand the track of recent footsteps. Peering
+through the branches, he perceives her reclining on a stone seat strewn
+with flowers. Her two companions are with her, and she is sick unto
+death. The king notices that her cheeks are wasted, her breasts less
+swelling, her slender waist more slender, her roseate hue has grown
+pale, and she seems like some poor _madhave_ creeper touched by winds
+that have scorched its leaves. Her companions anxiously inquire the
+cause of her sickness, and, after much hesitation, she reveals her love
+by inscribing a poem, with her fingernail, on a lotus leaf smooth as a
+parrot's breast. The king hears the avowal of her love, rushes in to
+her, and declares his passion: adding that daughters of a royal saint
+have often been wedded by _Gandharva_ rites, without ceremonies or
+parental consent, yet have not forfeited the father's blessing. He thus
+overcomes her scruples. Gautami, the matron of the hermitage, afterwards
+enters, and asks, "My child, is your fever allayed?" "Venerable mother,"
+is the reply, "I feel a grateful change." As the king sits in solitude
+that evening in the deserted arbor, he hears a voice outside, uttering
+the verses--"The evening rites have begun; but, dark as the clouds of
+night, the demons are swarming round the altar fires." With these words
+of ill-omen the third act comes to an end.
+
+The fourth act describes the fulfilment of this evil omen. The king has
+now returned to the city, and has given Sakoontala a signet ring, with
+an inscription on it, pronouncing that after there have elapsed as many
+days as there are letters in this inscription he will return. As the two
+maiden companions of Sakoontala are culling flowers in the garden of the
+hermitage, they hear a voice exclaiming, "It is I! give heed!" This is
+the great Durvasas, whom Sakoontala, lost in thoughts of her absent
+husband, has neglected at once to go forth to welcome. The voice from
+behind the scenes is soon after heard uttering a curse--"Woe unto her
+who is thus neglectful of a guest," and declaring that Dushyanta, of
+whom alone she is thinking, regardless of the presence of a pious saint,
+shall forget her in spite of all his love, as the wine-bibber forgets
+his delirium. The Hindoo saint is here described in all his arrogance
+and cruelty. One of the maidens says that he who had uttered the curse
+is now retiring with great strides, quivering with rage--for his wrath
+is like a consuming fire. A pretty picture is given of Sakoontala, who
+carries on her finger the signet ring, which has the virtue of restoring
+the king's love, if ever he should forget her. "There sits our beloved
+friend," cries one of the maidens: "motionless as a picture; her cheek
+supported by her left hand, so absorbed in thoughts of her absent lover
+that she is unconscious of her own self--how much more of a passing
+stranger?"
+
+In the fourth act there is an exquisite description of the return of
+Kanwa from his pilgrimage, and the preparations for the start of
+Sakoontala for her husband's palace, in the city. The delicate pathos of
+the scene is worthy of Euripides. "Alas! Alas!" exclaim the two maidens,
+"Now Sakoontala has disappeared behind the trees of the forest. Tell us,
+master, how shall we enter again the sacred grove made desolate by her
+departure?" But the holy calm, broken for a moment by the excitement of
+his child's departure, is soon restored to Kanwa's mind. "Now that my
+child is dismissed to her husband's home, tranquillity regains my soul."
+The closing reflection is worthy of a Greek dramatist: "Our maids we
+rear for the happiness of others; and now that I have sent her to her
+husband I feel the satisfaction that comes from restoring a trust."
+
+In the fifth act, the scene is laid in Dushyanta's palace, where the
+king is living, under the curse of Durvasas, in complete oblivion of
+Sakoontala. The life of the court is happily suggested, with its
+intrigues and its business. The king has yet a vague impression of
+restlessness, which, on hearing a song sung behind the scenes, prompts
+him to say, "Why has this strain flung over me so deep a melancholy, as
+though I was separated from some loved one; can this be the faint
+remembrance of affections in some previous existence?" It is here that
+the hermits, with Gautami, arrive, bringing Sakoontala, soon to be made
+a mother, into the presence of the king; but she has been utterly
+forgotten by him. He angrily denies his marriage; and when she proposes
+to bring forth the ring, she finds she has lost it from her finger. "It
+must have slipped off," suggested Gautami, "when thou wast offering
+homage to Sachi's holy lake." The king smiles derisively. Sakoontala
+tries to quicken his memory:--"Do you remember how, in the jasmine
+bower, you poured water from the lotus cup into the hollow of my hand?
+Do you remember how you said to my little fawn, Drink first, but she
+shrunk from you--and drank water from my hand, and you said, with a
+smile, 'Like trusts Like,' for you are two sisters in the same grove."
+The king calls her words "honeyed falsehoods." Sakoontala buries her
+face in her mantle and bursts into tears.
+
+The tenderness of this scene, its grace and delicacy, are quite idyllic,
+and worthy of the best ages of the pastoral drama. The ring is at
+length restored to Dushyanta, having been found by a fisherman in the
+belly of a carp. On its being restored to the king's finger, he is
+overcome with a flood of recollection: he gives himself over to mourning
+and forbids the celebration of the Spring festival. He admits that his
+palsied heart had been slumbering, and that, now it is roused by
+memories of his fawn-eyed love, he only wakes to agonies of remorse.
+Meanwhile Sakoontala had been carried away like a celestial nymph to the
+sacred grove of Kasyapa, far removed from earth in the upper air. The
+king, being summoned by Indra to destroy the brood of giants,
+descendants of Kalamemi, the monster of a hundred arms and heads,
+reaches in the celestial car Indra, the grove where dwell his wife and
+child, an heroic boy whom the hermits call Sarva-damana--the all-tamer.
+The recognition and reconciliation of husband and wife are delineated
+with the most delicate skill, and the play concludes with a prayer to
+Shiva.
+
+E.W.
+
+DRAMATIS PERSONAE
+
+DUSHYANTA, King of India.
+
+MATHAVYA, the Jester, friend and companion of the King.
+
+KANWA, chief of the Hermits, foster-father of Sakoontala.
+
+SARNGARAVA, SARADWATA, two Brahmans, belonging to the hermitage of
+Kanwa.
+
+MITRAVASU, brother-in-law of the King, and Superintendent of the city
+police.
+
+JANUKA, SUCHAKA, two constables.
+
+VATAYANA, the Chamberlain or attendant on the women's apartments.
+
+SOMARATA, the domestic Priest.
+
+KARABHAKA, a messenger of the Queen-mother.
+
+RAIVATAKA, the warder or door-keeper.
+
+MATALI, charioteer of Indra.
+
+SARVA-DAMANA, afterwards Bharata, a little boy, son of Dushyanta by
+Sakoontala.
+
+KASYAPA, a divine sage, progenitor of men and gods, son of Marichi and
+grandson of Brahma.
+
+SAKOONTALA, daughter of the sage Viswamitra and the nymph Menaka,
+foster-child of the hermit Kanwa.
+
+PRIYAMVADA and ANASUYA, female attendants, companions of Sakoontala.
+
+GAUTAMI, a holy matron, Superior of the female inhabitants of the
+hermitage.
+
+VASUMATI, the Queen of Dushyanta.
+
+SANUMATI, a nymph, friend of Sakoontala.
+
+TARALIKA, personal attendant of the King.
+
+CHATURIKA, personal attendant of the Queen.
+
+VETRAVATI, female warder, or door-keeper.
+
+PARABARITIKA and MADHUKARIKA, maidens in charge of the royal gardens.
+
+SUVRATA, a nurse.
+
+ADITI, wife of Kasyapa; grand-daughter of Brahma, through her father,
+Daksha.
+
+Charioteer, Fisherman, Officers, and Hermits.
+
+
+RULES FOR PRONUNCIATION OF PROPER NAMES
+
+Observe, that in order to secure the correct pronunciation of the title
+of this Drama, "Sakuntala" has been spelt "Sa-koontala," the _u_ being
+pronounced like the _u_ in the English word _rule_.
+
+The vowel _a_ must invariably be pronounced with a dull sound, like the
+_a_ in _organ_, or the _u_ in _fun, sun. Dushyanta_ must therefore be
+pronounced as if written _Dooshyunta_. The long vowel _a_ is pronounced
+like the _a_ in _last, cart; i_ like the _i_ in _pin, sin_; _i_ like the
+_i_ in _marine; e_ like the _e_ in _prey; o_ like the _o_ in _so; ai_
+like the _ai_ in _aisle; au_ like _au_ in the German word _baum_, or
+like the _ou_ in _our_.
+
+The consonants are generally pronounced as in English, but _g_ has
+always the sound of _g_ in _gun, give_, never of _g_ in _gin. S_ with
+the accent over it (s) has the sound of _s_ in _sure_, or of the last
+_s_ in _session_.
+
+
+
+SAKOONTALA
+
+PROLOGUE
+
+Benediction
+
+    Isa preserve you! he who is revealed
+    In these eight forms by man perceptible--
+    Water, of all creation's works the first;
+    The fire that bears on high the sacrifice
+    Presented with solemnity to heaven;
+    The Priest, the holy offerer of gifts;
+    The Sun and Moon, those two majestic orbs,
+    Eternal marshallers of day and night;
+    The subtle Ether, vehicle of sound,
+    Diffused throughout the boundless universe;
+    The Earth, by sages called "The place of birth
+    Of all material essences and things";
+    And Air, which giveth life to all that breathe.
+
+STAGE-MANAGER [_after the recitation of the benediction, looking towards
+the tiring-room._]--Lady, when you have finished attiring yourself, come
+this way.
+
+ACTRESS [_entering._]--Here I am, Sir; what are your commands?
+
+STAGE-MANAGER.--We are here before the eyes of an audience of educated
+and discerning men; and have to represent in their presence a new drama
+composed by Kalidasa, called "Sakoontala, or the Lost Ring." Let the
+whole company exert themselves to do justice to their several parts.
+
+ACTRESS,--You, Sir, have so judiciously managed the cast of the
+characters, that nothing will be defective in the acting.
+
+STAGE-MANAGER.--Lady, I will tell you the exact state of the case.
+    No skill in acting can I deem complete,
+    Till from the wise the actor gain applause:
+    Know that the heart e'en of the truly skilful,
+    Shrinks from too boastful confidence in self.
+
+ACTRESS [_modestly_].--You judge correctly. And now, what are your
+commands?
+
+STAGE-MANAGER.--What can you do better than engage the attention of the
+audience by some captivating melody?
+
+ACTRESS.--Which among the seasons shall I select as the subject of my
+song?
+
+STAGE-MANAGER.--You surely ought to give the preference to the present
+Summer season that has but recently commenced, a season so rich in
+enjoyment. For now
+    Unceasing are the charms of halcyon days,
+    When the cool bath exhilarates the frame;
+    When sylvan gales are laden with the scent
+    Of fragrant Patalas; when soothing sleep
+    Creeps softly on beneath the deepening shade;
+    And when, at last, the dulcet calm of eve
+    Entrancing steals o'er every yielding sense.
+
+ACTRESS.--I will. [_Sings._
+    Fond maids, the chosen of their hearts to please,
+      Entwine their ears with sweet Sirisha flowers,
+    Whose fragrant lips attract the kiss of bees
+      That softly murmur through the summer hours.
+
+STAGE-MANAGER.--Charmingly sung! The audience are motionless as statues,
+their souls riveted by the enchanting strain. What subject shall we
+select for representation, that we may insure a continuance of their
+favor?
+
+ACTRESS.--Why not the same, Sir, announced by you at first? Let the
+drama called "Sakoontala, or the Lost Ring," be the subject of our
+dramatic performance.
+
+STAGE-MANAGER.--Rightly reminded! For the moment I had forgotten it.
+    Your song's transporting melody decoyed
+    My thoughts, and rapt with ecstasy my soul;
+    As now the bounding antelope allures
+    The King Dushyanta on the chase intent. [_Exeunt._
+
+
+
+
+ACT FIRST
+
+Scene.--A Forest
+
+
+_Enter King Dushyanta, armed with a bow and arrow, in a chariot, chasing
+an antelope, attended by his Charioteer_.
+
+CHARIOTEER [_looking at the deer, and then at the King_].--
+Great Prince,
+    When on the antelope I bend my gaze,
+    And on your Majesty, whose mighty bow
+    Has its string firmly braced; before my eyes
+    The god that wields the trident seems revealed,
+    Chasing the deer that flies from him in vain.
+
+KING.--Charioteer, this fleet antelope has drawn us far from my
+attendants. See! there he runs:--
+    Aye and anon his graceful neck he bends
+    To cast a glance at the pursuing car;
+    And dreading now the swift-descending shaft,
+    Contracts into itself his slender frame:
+    About his path, in scattered fragments strewn,
+    The half-chewed grass falls from his panting mouth;
+    See! in his airy bounds he seems to fly,
+    And leaves no trace upon th'elastic turf.
+          [_With astonishment_.
+How now! swift as is our pursuit, I scarce can see him.
+
+CHARIOTEER.--Sire, the ground here is full of hollows; I have therefore
+drawn in the reins and checked the speed of the chariot. Hence the deer
+has somewhat gained upon us. Now that we are passing over level ground,
+we shall have no difficulty in overtaking him.
+
+KING.--Loosen the reins, then.
+
+CHARIOTEER.--The King is obeyed. [_Drives the chariot at full speed_.]
+Great Prince, see! see!
+    Responsive to the slackened rein, the steeds
+    Chafing with eager rivalry, career
+    With emulative fleetness o'er the plain;
+    Their necks outstretched, their waving plumes, that late
+    Fluttered above their brows, are motionless;
+    Their sprightly ears, but now erect, bent low;
+    Themselves unsullied by the circling dust,
+    That vainly follows on their rapid course.
+
+KING [_joyously_].--In good sooth, the horses seem as if they would
+outstrip the steeds of Indra and the Sun.[33]
+    That which but now showed to my view minute
+    Quickly assumes dimension; that which seemed
+    A moment since disjoined in diverse parts,
+    Looks suddenly like one compacted whole;
+    That which is really crooked in its shape
+    In the far distance left, grows regular;
+    Wondrous the chariot's speed, that in a breath,
+    Makes the near distant and the distant near.
+
+Now, Charioteer, see me kill the deer. [_Takes aim_.
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--Hold, O King! this deer belongs to our
+hermitage. Kill it not! kill it not!
+
+CHARIOTEER [_listening and looking_].--Great King, some hermits have
+stationed themselves so as to screen the antelope at the very moment of
+its coming within range of your arrow.
+
+KING [_hastily_].--Then stop the horses.
+
+CHARIOTEER.--I obey. [_Stops the chariot_.
+
+_Enter a Hermit, and two others with him_.
+
+HERMIT [_raising his hand_].--This deer, O King, belongs to our
+hermitage. Kill it not! kill it not!
+    Now heaven forbid this barbed shaft descend
+    Upon the fragile body of a fawn,
+    Like fire upon a heap of tender flowers!
+    Can thy steel bolts no meeter quarry find
+    Than the warm life-blood of a harmless deer?
+    Restore, great Prince, thy weapon to its quiver;
+    More it becomes thy arms to shield the weak,
+    Than to bring anguish on the innocent.
+
+KING.--'Tis done. [_Replaces the arrow in its quiver_.
+
+HERMIT.--Worthy is this action of a Prince, the light of Puru's race.
+    Well does this act befit a Prince like thee,
+    Right worthy is it of thine ancestry.
+    Thy guerdon be a son of peerless worth,
+    Whose wide dominion shall embrace the earth.
+
+BOTH THE OTHER HERMITS [_raising their hands_].--May heaven indeed grant
+thee a son, a sovereign of the earth from sea to sea!
+
+KING [_bowing._]--I accept with gratitude a Brahman's benediction.
+
+HERMIT.--We came hither, mighty Prince, to collect sacrificial wood.
+Here on the banks of the Malini you may perceive the hermitage of the
+great sage Kanwa. If other duties require not your presence, deign to
+enter and accept our hospitality.
+    When you behold our penitential rites
+    Performed without impediment by Saints
+    Rich only in devotion, then with pride
+    Will you reflect, Such are the holy men
+    Who call me Guardian; such the men for whom
+    To wield the bow I bare my nervous arm,
+    Scarred by the motion of the glancing string.
+
+KING.--Is the Chief of your Society now at home?
+
+HERMIT.--No; he has gone to Soma-tirtha to propitiate Destiny, which
+threatens his daughter Sakoontala with some calamity; but he has
+commissioned her in his absence to entertain all guests with
+hospitality.
+
+KING.--Good! I will pay her a visit. She will make me acquainted with
+the mighty sage's acts of penance and devotion.
+
+HERMIT.--And we will depart on our errand.
+          [_Exit with his companions_.
+
+KING.--Charioteer, urge on the horses. We will at least purify our souls
+by a sight of this hallowed retreat.
+
+CHARIOTEER.--Your Majesty is obeyed.
+          [_Drives the chariot with great velocity_.
+
+KING [_looking all about him_].--Charioteer, even without being told, I
+should have known that these were the precincts of a grove consecrated
+to penitential rites.
+
+CHARIOTEER.--How so?
+
+KING.--Do not you observe?
+    Beneath the trees, whose hollow trunks afford
+    Secure retreat to many a nestling brood
+    Of parrots, scattered grains of rice lie strewn.
+    Lo! here and there are seen the polished slabs
+    That serve to bruise the fruit of Ingudi.
+    The gentle roe-deer, taught to trust in man,
+    Unstartled hear our voices. On the paths
+    Appear the traces of bark-woven vests
+    Borne dripping from the limpid fount of waters.
+    And mark! Laved are the roots of trees by deep canals,
+    Whose glassy waters tremble in the breeze;
+    The sprouting verdure of the leaves is dimmed
+    By dusky wreaths of upward curling smoke
+    From burnt oblations; and on new-mown lawns
+    Around our car graze leisurely the fawns.
+
+CHARIOTEER.--I observe it all.
+
+KING [_advancing a little further_].--The inhabitants of this sacred
+retreat must not be disturbed. Stay the chariot, that I may alight.
+
+CHARIOTEER.--The reins are held in. Your Majesty may descend.
+
+KING [_alighting_].--Charioteer, groves devoted to penance must be
+entered in humble attire. Take these ornaments.
+[_Delivers his ornaments and bow to the Charioteer_.]
+Charioteer, see that the horses are watered, and attend to them until I
+return from visiting the inhabitants of the hermitage.
+
+CHARIOTEER.--I will.          [_Exit_.
+
+KING [_walking and looking about_].--Here is the entrance to the
+hermitage. I will now go in.
+          [_Entering he feels a throbbing sensation in his arm_
+    Serenest peace is in this calm retreat,
+    By passion's breath unruffled; what portends
+    My throbbing arm? Why should it whisper here
+    Of happy love? Yet everywhere around us
+    Stand the closed portals of events unknown.
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--This way, my dear companions; this way.
+
+KING [_listening_].--Hark! I hear voices to the right of yonder grove of
+trees. I will walk in that direction. [_Walking and looking about_.] Ah!
+here are the maidens of the hermitage coming this way to water the
+shrubs, carrying watering-pots proportioned to their strength. [_Gazing
+at them_.] How graceful they look!
+    In palaces such charms are rarely ours;
+    The woodland plants outshine the garden flowers.
+I will conceal myself in this shade and watch them.
+          [_Stands gazing at them_.
+
+_Enter Sakoontala, with her two female companions, employed in the
+manner described_.
+
+SAKOONTALA.--This way, my dear companions; this way.
+
+ANASUYA.--Dear Sakoontala, one would think that father Kanwa had more
+affection for the shrubs of the hermitage even than for you, seeing he
+assigns to you who are yourself as delicate as the fresh-blown jasmine,
+the task of filling with water the trenches which encircle their roots.
+
+SAKOONTALA.--Dear Anasuya, although I am charged by my good father with
+this duty, yet I cannot regard it as a task. I really feel a sisterly
+love for these plants.
+          [_Continues watering the shrubs_.
+
+KING.--Can this be the daughter of Kanwa? The saintly man, though
+descended from the great Kasyapa, must be very deficient in judgment to
+habituate such a maiden to the life of a recluse.
+    The sage who would this form of artless grace
+    Inure to penance--thoughtlessly attempts
+    To cleave in twain the hard acacia's stem
+    With the soft edge of a blue lotus leaf.
+Well! concealed behind this tree, I will watch her without raising her
+suspicions.          [_Conceals himself_.
+
+SAKOONTALA.--Good Anasuya, Priyamvada has drawn this bark-dress too
+tightly about my chest. I pray thee, loosen it a little.
+
+ANASUYA.--I will.          [_Loosens it_.
+
+PRIYAMVADA [_smiling_].--Why do you lay the blame on me? Blame rather
+your own blooming youthfulness which imparts fulness to your bosom.
+
+KING.--A most just observation!
+    This youthful form, whose bosom's swelling charms
+    By the bark's knotted tissue are concealed,
+    Like some fair bud close folded in its sheath,
+    Gives not to view the blooming of its beauty.
+But what am I saying? In real truth, this bark-dress, though ill-suited
+to her figure, sets it off like an ornament.
+    The lotus with the Saivala entwined
+    Is not a whit less brilliant: dusky spots
+    Heighten the lustre of the cold-rayed moon:
+    This lovely maiden in her dress of bark
+    Seems all the lovelier. E'en the meanest garb
+    Gives to true beauty fresh attractiveness.
+
+SAKOONTALA [_looking before her_].--Yon Kesara-tree beckons to me with
+its young shoots, which, as the breeze waves them to and fro, appear
+like slender fingers. I will go and attend to it. [_Walks towards it_.
+
+PRIYAMVADA.--Dear Sakoontala, prithee, rest in that attitude one moment.
+
+SAKOONTALA.--Why so?
+
+PRIYAMVADA.--The Kesara-tree, whilst your graceful form bends about its
+stem, appears as if it were wedded to some lovely twining creeper.
+
+SAKOONTALA.--Ah! saucy girl, you are most appropriately named Priyamvada
+("Speaker of flattering things").
+
+KING.--What Priyamvada says, though complimentary, is nevertheless true.
+Verily,
+    Her ruddy lip vies with the opening bud;
+    Her graceful arms are as the twining stalks;
+    And her whole form is radiant with the glow
+    Of youthful beauty, as the tree with bloom.
+
+ANASUYA.--See, dear Sakoontala, here is the young jasmine, which you
+named "the Moonlight of the Grove," the self-elected wife of the
+mango-tree. Have you forgotten it?
+
+SAKOONTALA.--Rather will I forget myself. [_Approaching the plant and
+looking at it_.] How delightful is the season when the jasmine-creeper
+and the mango-tree seem thus to unite in mutual embraces! The fresh
+blossoms of the jasmine resemble the bloom of a young bride, and the
+newly-formed shoots of the mango appear to make it her natural
+protector.          [_Continues gazing at it_.
+
+PRIYAMVADA [_smiling_].--Do you know, my Anasuya, why Sakoontala gazes
+so intently at the jasmine?
+
+ANASUYA.--No, indeed, I cannot imagine. I pray thee tell me.
+
+PRIYAMVADA.--She is wishing that as the jasmine is united to a suitable
+tree, so, in like manner, she may obtain a husband worthy of her.
+
+SAKOONTALA.--Speak for yourself, girl; this is the thought in your own
+mind.          [_Continues watering the flowers_.
+
+KING.--Would that my union with her were permissible! and yet I hardly
+dare hope that the maiden is sprung from a caste different from that of
+the Head of the hermitage. But away with doubt:--
+    That she is free to wed a warrior-king
+    My heart attests. For, in conflicting doubts,
+    The secret promptings of the good man's soul
+    Are an unerring index of the truth.
+
+However, come what may, I will ascertain the fact.
+
+SAKOONTALA [_in a flurry_].--Ah! a bee, disturbed by the sprinkling of
+the water, has left the young jasmine, and is trying to settle on my
+face.          [_Attempts to drive it away_.
+
+KING [_gazing at her ardently_].--Beautiful! there is something charming
+even in her repulse.
+    Where'er the bee his eager onset plies,
+    Now here, now there, she darts her kindling eyes:
+    What love hath yet to teach, fear teaches now,
+    The furtive glances and the frowning brow.
+                                [_In a tone of envy_.
+    Ah happy bee! how boldly dost thou try
+    To steal the lustre from her sparkling eye;
+    And in thy circling movements hover near,
+    To murmur tender secrets in her ear;
+    Or, as she coyly waves her hand, to sip
+    Voluptuous nectar from her lower lip!
+    While rising doubts my heart's fond hopes destroy,
+    Thou dost the fulness of her charms enjoy.
+
+SAKOONTALA.--This impertinent bee will not rest quiet. I must move
+elsewhere. [_Moving a few steps off, and casting a glance around_.] How
+now! he is following me here. Help! my dear friends, help! deliver me
+from the attacks of this troublesome insect.
+
+PRIYAMVADA AND ANASUYA.--How can we deliver you? Call Dushyanta to your
+aid. The sacred groves are under the king's special protection.
+
+KING.--An excellent opportunity for me to show myself. Fear
+not--[_Checks himself when the words are half-uttered._ _Aside_.] But
+stay, if I introduce myself in this manner, they will know me to be the
+King. Be it so, I will accost them, nevertheless.
+
+SAKOONTALA [_moving a step or two further off_].--What! it still
+persists in following me.
+
+KING [_advancing hastily_].--When mighty Puru's offspring sways the
+earth,
+    And o'er the wayward holds his threatening rod,
+    Who dares molest the gentle maids that keep
+    Their holy vigils here in Kanwa's grove?
+
+          [_All look at the King, and are embarrassed_.
+
+ANASUYA.--Kind Sir, no outrage has been committed; only our dear friend
+here was teased by the attacks of a troublesome bee.
+          [_Points to Sakoontala_.
+
+KING [_turning to Sakoontala_].--I trust all is well with your
+devotional rites?
+
+          [_Sakoontala stands confused and silent_.
+
+ANASUYA.--All is well, indeed, now that we are honored by the reception
+of a distinguished guest. Dear Sakoontala, go, bring from the hermitage
+an offering of flowers, rice, and fruit. This water that we have brought
+with us will serve to bathe our guest's feet.
+
+KING.--The rites of hospitality are already performed; your truly kind
+words are the best offering I can receive.
+
+PRIYAMVADA.--At least be good enough, gentle Sir, to sit down awhile,
+and rest yourself on this seat shaded by the leaves of the Sapta-parna
+tree.
+
+KING.--You, too, must all be fatigued by your employment.
+
+ANASUYA.--Dear Sakoontala, there is no impropriety in our sitting by the
+side of our guest: come, let us sit down here.
+
+          [_All sit down together_.
+
+SAKOONTALA [_aside_].--How is it that the sight of this man has made me
+sensible of emotions inconsistent with religious vows?
+
+KING [_gazing at them all by turns_].--How charmingly your friendship is
+in keeping with the equality of your ages and appearance!
+
+PRIYAMVADA [_aside to Anasuya_].--Who can this person be, whose lively
+yet dignified manner, and polite conversation, bespeak him a man of high
+rank?
+
+ANASUYA.--I, too, my dear, am very curious to know. I will ask him
+myself. [_Aloud_]. Your kind words, noble Sir, fill me with confidence,
+and prompt me to inquire of what regal family our noble guest is the
+ornament? what country is now mourning his absence? and what induced a
+person so delicately nurtured to expose himself to the fatigue of
+visiting this grove of penance?
+
+SAKOONTALA [_aside_].--Be not troubled, O my heart, Anasuya is giving
+utterance to thy thoughts.
+
+KING [_aside_].--How now shall I reply? shall I make myself known, or
+shall I still disguise my real rank? I have it; I will answer her thus.
+[_Aloud_]. I am the person charged by his majesty, the descendant of
+Puru, with the administration of justice and religion; and am come to
+this sacred grove to satisfy myself that the rites of the hermits are
+free from obstruction.
+
+ANASUYA.--The hermits, then, and all the members of our religious
+society have now a guardian.
+
+          [_Sakoontala gazes bashfully at the King_.
+
+PRIYAMVADA AND ANASUYA [_perceiving the state of her feelings, and of
+the King's. Aside to Sakoontala_].--Dear Sakoontala, if father Kanwa
+were but at home to-day------
+
+SAKOONTALA [_angrily_].--What if he were?
+
+PRIYAMVADA AND ANASUYA.--He would honor this our distinguished guest
+with an offering of the most precious of his possessions.
+
+SAKOONTALA.--Go to! you have some silly idea in your minds. I will not
+listen to such remarks.
+
+KING.--May I be allowed, in my turn, to ask you maidens a few
+particulars respecting your friend?
+
+PRIYAMVADA AND ANASUYA.--Your request, Sir, is an honor.
+
+KING.--The sage Kanwa lives in the constant practice of austerities.
+How, then, can this friend of yours be called his daughter?
+
+ANASUYA.--I will explain to you, Sir. You have heard of an illustrious
+sage of regal caste, Viswamitra, whose family name is Kausika.
+
+KING.--I have.
+
+ANASUYA.--Know that he is the real father of our friend. The venerable
+Kanwa is only her reputed father. He it was who brought her up, when she
+was deserted by her mother.
+
+KING.--"Deserted by her mother!" My curiosity is excited; pray let me
+hear the story from the beginning.
+
+ANASUYA.--You shall hear it, Sir. Some time since, this sage of regal
+caste, while performing a most severe penance on the banks of the river
+Godavari, excited the jealousy and alarm of the gods; insomuch that they
+despatched a lovely nymph named Menaka to interrupt his devotions.
+
+KING.--The inferior gods, I am aware, are jealous of the power which the
+practice of excessive devotion confers on mortals.
+
+ANASUYA.--Well, then, it happened that Viswamitra, gazing on the
+bewitching beauty of that nymph at a season when, spring being in its
+glory------
+          [_Stops short, and appears confused_.
+
+KING.--The rest may be easily divined. Sakoontala, then, is the
+offspring of the nymph.
+
+ANASUYA.--Just so.
+
+KING.--It is quite intelligible.
+    How could a mortal to such charms give birth?
+    The lightning's radiance flashes not from earth.
+
+          [_Sakoontala remains modestly seated with downcast eyes.
+
+[Aside_]. And so my desire has really scope for its indulgence. Yet I am
+still distracted by doubts, remembering the pleasantry of her female
+companions respecting her wish for a husband.
+
+PRIYAMVADA [_looking with a smile at Sakoontala, and then turning
+towards the King_].--You seem desirous, Sir, of asking something
+further.
+
+          [_Sakoontala makes a chiding gesture with her finger_.
+
+KING.--You conjecture truly. I am so eager to hear the particulars of
+your friend's history, that I have still another question to ask.
+
+PRIYAMVADA.--Scruple not to do so. Persons who lead the life of hermits
+may be questioned unreservedly.
+
+KING.--I wish to ascertain one point respecting your friend--
+    Will she be bound by solitary vows
+    Opposed to love, till her espousals only?
+    Or ever dwell with these her cherished fawns,
+    Whose eyes, in lustre vieing with her own,
+    Return her gaze of sisterly affection?
+
+PRIYAMVADA.--Hitherto, Sir, she has been engaged in the practice of
+religious duties, and has lived in subjection to her foster-father; but
+it is now his fixed intention to give her away in marriage to a husband
+worthy of her.
+
+KING [_aside_].--His intention may be easily carried into effect.
+    Be hopeful, O my heart, thy harrowing doubts
+    Are past and gone; that which thou didst believe
+    To be as unapproachable as fire,
+    Is found a glittering gem that may be touched.
+
+SAKOONTALA [_pretending anger_].--Anasuya, I shall leave you.
+
+ANASUYA.--Why so?
+
+SAKOONTALA.--That I may go and report this impertinent Priyamvada to the
+venerable matron, Gautami.[34]
+
+ANASUYA.--Surely, dear friend, it would not be right to leave a
+distinguished guest before he has received the rights of hospitality,
+and quit his presence in this wilful manner.
+
+          [_Sakoontala, without answering a word, moves away_.
+
+KING [_making a movement to arrest her departure, but checking himself.
+Aside_].--Ah! a lover's feelings betray themselves by his gestures.
+    When I would fain have stayed the maid, a sense
+    Of due decorum checked my bold design:
+    Though I have stirred not, yet my mien betrays
+    My eagerness to follow on her steps.
+
+PRIYAMVADA [_holding Sakoontala back_].--Dear Sakoontala, it does not
+become you to go away in this manner.
+
+SAKOONTALA [_frowning_].--Why not, pray?
+
+PRIYAMVADA.--You are under a promise to water two more shrubs for me.
+When you have paid your debt, you shall go, and not before.
+          [_Forces her to turn back_.
+
+KING.--Spare her this trouble, gentle maiden. The exertion of watering
+the shrubs has already fatigued her.
+    The water-jar has overtasked the strength
+    Of her slim arms; her shoulders droop, her hands
+    Are ruddy with the glow of quickened pulses;
+    E'en now her agitated breath imparts
+    Unwonted tremor to her heaving breast;
+    The pearly drops that mar the recent bloom
+    Of the Sirisha pendant in her ear,
+    Gather in clustering circles on her cheek;
+    Loosed is the fillet of her hair: her hand
+    Restrains the locks that struggle to be free.
+Suffer me, then, thus to discharge the debt for you.
+
+[_Offers a ring to Priyamvada. Both the maidens, reading the name
+Dushyanta on the seal, look at each other with surprise._
+
+KING.--Nay, think not that I am King Dushyanta. I am only the king's
+officer, and this is the ring which I have received from him as my
+credentials.
+
+PRIYAMVADA.--The greater the reason you ought not to part with the ring
+from your finger. I am content to release her from her obligation at
+your simple request. [_With a smile_.] Now, Sakoontala my love, you are
+at liberty to retire, thanks to the intercession of this noble stranger,
+or rather of this mighty prince.
+
+SAKOONTALA [_aside_].--My movements are no longer under my own control.
+[_Aloud_.] Pray, what authority have you over me, either to send me away
+or keep me back?
+
+KING [_gazing at Sakoontala. Aside_].--Would I could ascertain whether
+she is affected towards me as I am towards her! At any rate, my hopes
+are free to indulge themselves. Because,
+    Although she mingles not her words with mine,
+    Yet doth her listening ear drink in my speech;
+    Although her eye shrinks from my ardent gaze,
+    No form but mine attracts its timid glances.
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--O hermits, be ready to protect the
+animals belonging to our hermitage. King Dushyanta, amusing himself with
+hunting, is near at hand.
+    Lo! by the feet of prancing horses raised,
+    Thick clouds of moving dust, like glittering swarms
+    Of locusts in the glow of eventide,
+    Fall on the branches of our sacred trees;
+    Where hang the dripping vests of woven bark,
+    Bleached by the waters of the cleansing fountain.
+And see!
+    Scared by the royal chariot in its course,
+    With headlong haste an elephant invades
+    The hallowed precincts of our sacred grove;
+    Himself the terror of the startled deer,
+    And an embodied hindrance to our rites.
+    The hedge of creepers clinging to his feet,
+    Feeble obstruction to his mad career,
+    Is dragged behind him in a tangled chain;
+    And with terrific shock one tusk he drives
+    Into the riven body of a tree,
+    Sweeping before him all impediments.
+
+KING [_aside_].--Out upon it! my retinue are looking for me, and are
+disturbing this holy retreat. Well! there is no help for it; I must go
+and meet them.
+
+PRIYAMVADA AND ANASUYA.--Noble Sir, we are terrified by the accidental
+disturbance caused by the wild elephant. Permit us to return into the
+cottage.
+
+KING [_hastily_].--Go, gentle maidens. It shall be our care that no
+injury happen to the hermitage.          [_All rise up_.
+
+PRIYAMVADA AND ANASUYA.--After such poor hospitality we are ashamed to
+request the honor of a second visit from you.
+
+KING.--Say not so. The mere sight of you, sweet maidens, has been to me
+the best entertainment.
+
+SAKOONTALA.--Anasuya, a pointed blade of Kusa-grass[35] has pricked my
+foot; and my bark-mantle is caught in the branch of a Kuruvaka-bush. Be
+so good as to wait for me until I have disentangled it.
+[_Exit with her two companions, after making pretexts for delay, that
+she may steal glances at the King_.
+
+KING.--I have no longer any desire to return to the city. I will
+therefore rejoin my attendants, and make them encamp somewhere in the
+vicinity of this sacred grove. In good truth, Sakoontala has taken such
+possession of my thoughts, that I cannot turn myself in any other
+direction.
+    My limbs drawn onward leave my heart behind,
+    Like silken pennon borne against the wind.
+
+
+[33] The speed of the chariot resembled that of the wind and the sun.
+Indra was the god of the firmament or atmosphere. The sun, in Hindoo
+mythology, is represented as seated in a chariot drawn by seven green
+horses, having before him a lovely youth without legs, who acts as
+charioteer, and who is Aruna, or the Dawn personified.
+
+[34] The Matron or Superior of the female part of the society of
+hermits. Their authority resembled that of an abbess in a convent of
+nuns.
+
+[35] A grass held sacred by the Hindoos and freely used at their
+religious ceremonies. Its leaves are very long and taper to a
+needle-like point.
+
+
+
+
+ACT SECOND
+
+Scene.--A Plain on the Skirts of the Forest
+
+
+_Enter the Jester, Mathavya, in a melancholy mood_.
+
+MATHAVYA [_sighing_].--Heigh-ho! what an unlucky fellow I am! worn to a
+shadow by my royal friend's sporting propensities. "Here's a deer!"
+"There goes a boar!" "Yonder's a tiger!" This is the only burden of our
+talk, while in the heat of the meridian sun we toil on from jungle to
+jungle, wandering about in the paths of the woods, where the trees
+afford us no shelter. Are we thirsty? We have nothing to drink but the
+foul water of some mountain stream, filled with dry leaves which give it
+a most pungent flavor. Are we hungry? We have nothing to eat but roast
+game, which we must swallow down at odd times, as best we can. Even at
+night there is no peace to be had. Sleeping is out of the question, with
+joints all strained by dancing attendance upon my sporting friend; or if
+I do happen to doze, I am awakened at the very earliest dawn by the
+horrible din of a lot of rascally beaters and huntsmen, who must needs
+surround the wood before sunrise, and deafen me with their clatter. Nor
+are these my only troubles. Here's a fresh grievance, like a new boil
+rising upon an old one! Yesterday, while we were lagging behind, my
+royal friend entered yonder hermitage after a deer; and there, as
+ill-luck would have it? caught sight of a beautiful girl, called
+Sakoontala, the hermit's daughter. From that moment, not another thought
+about returning to the city! and all last night, not a wink of sleep did
+he get for thinking of the damsel. What is to be done? At any rate, I
+will be on the watch for him as soon as he has finished his toilet.
+[[_Walking and looking about_.] Oh! here he comes, attended by the
+Yavana women with bows in their hands, and wearing garlands of wild
+flowers. What shall I do? I have it. I will pretend to stand in the
+easiest attitude for resting my bruised and crippled limbs.
+          [_Stands leaning on a staff_.
+
+_Enter King Dushyanta, followed by a retinue in the manner described_.
+
+KING.--True, by no easy conquest may I win her,
+    Yet are my hopes encouraged by her mien.
+    Love is not yet triumphant; but, methinks,
+    The hearts of both are ripe for his delights.
+[_Smiling_.] Ah! thus does the lover delude himself; judging of the
+state of his loved one's feelings by his own desires. But yet,
+    The stolen glance with half-averted eye,
+    The hesitating gait, the quick rebuke
+    Addressed to her companion, who would fain
+    Have stayed her counterfeit departure; these
+    Are signs not unpropitious to my suit.
+    So eagerly the lover feeds his hopes,
+    Claiming each trivial gesture for his own.
+
+MATHAVYA [_still in the same attitude_].--Ah, friend, my hands cannot
+move to greet you with the usual salutation. I can only just command my
+lips to wish your majesty victory.
+
+KING.--Why, what has paralyzed your limbs?
+
+MATHAVYA.--You might as well ask me how my eye comes to water after you
+have poked your finger into it.
+
+KING.--I don't understand you; speak more intelligibly.
+
+MATHAVYA.--Ah, my dear friend, is yonder upright reed transformed into a
+crooked plant by its own act, or by the force of the current?
+
+KING.--The current of the river causes it, I suppose.
+
+MATHAVYA.--Aye; just as you are the cause of my crippled limbs.
+
+KING.--How so?
+
+MATHAVYA.--Here are you living the life of a wild man of the woods in a
+savage, unfrequented region, while your state affairs are left to shift
+for themselves; and as for poor me, I am no longer master of my own
+limbs, but have to follow you about day after day in your chases after
+wild animals, till my bones are all crippled and out of joint. Do, my
+dear friend, let me have one day's rest.
+
+KING [_aside_].--This fellow little knows, while he talks in this
+manner, that my mind is wholly engrossed by recollections of the
+hermit's daughter, and quite as disinclined to the chase as his own.
+    No longer can I bend my well-braced bow
+    Against the timid deer; nor e'er again
+    With well-aimed arrows can I think to harm
+    These her beloved associates, who enjoy
+    The privilege of her companionship;
+    Teaching her tender glances in return.
+
+MATHAVYA [_looking in the King's face_].--I may as well speak to the
+winds, for any attention you pay to my requests. I suppose you have
+something on your mind, and are talking it over to yourself.
+
+KING [_smiling_].--I was only thinking that I ought not to disregard a
+friend's request.
+
+MATHAVYA.--Then may the King live forever!          [_Moves off_.
+
+KING.--Stay a moment, my dear friend. I have something else to say to
+you.
+
+MATHAVYA.--Say on, then.
+
+KING.--When you have rested, you must assist me in another business,
+which will give you no fatigue.
+
+MATHAVYA.--In eating something nice, I hope.
+
+KING.--You shall know at some future time.
+
+MATHAVYA.--No time better than the present.
+
+KING.--What ho! there.
+
+WARDER [_entering_].--What are your Majesty's commands?
+
+KING.--O Raivataka! bid the General of the forces attend.
+
+WARDER.--I will, Sire.        [_Exit and reenters with the General_]
+Come forward, General; his Majesty is looking towards you, and has some
+order to give you.
+
+GENERAL [_looking at the King_].--Though hunting is known to produce ill
+effects, my royal master has derived only benefit from it. For
+    Like the majestic elephant that roams
+    O'er mountain wilds, so does the King display
+    A stalwart frame, instinct with vigorous life.
+    His brawny arms and manly chest are scored
+    By frequent passage of the sounding string;
+    Unharmed he bears the mid-day sun; no toil
+    His mighty spirit daunts; his sturdy limbs,
+    Stripped of redundant flesh, relinquish nought
+    Of their robust proportions, but appear
+    In muscle, nerve, and sinewy fibre cased.
+[_Approaching the King_.] Victory to the King! We have tracked the wild
+beasts to their lairs in the forest. Why delay, when everything is
+ready?
+
+KING.--My friend Mathavya here has been disparaging the chase, till he
+has taken away all my relish for it.
+
+GENERAL [_aside to Mathavya_].--Persevere in your opposition, my good
+fellow; I will sound the King's real feelings, and humor him
+accordingly. [_Aloud_]. The blockhead talks nonsense, and your Majesty,
+in your own person, furnishes the best proof of it. Observe, Sire, the
+advantage and pleasure the hunter derives from the chase.
+    Freed from all grosser influences, his frame
+    Loses its sluggish humors, and becomes
+    Buoyant, compact, and fit for bold encounter.
+    'Tis his to mark with joy the varied passions,
+    Fierce heats of anger, terror, blank dismay,
+    Of forest animals that cross his path.
+    Then what a thrill transports the hunter's soul,
+    When, with unerring course, his driven shaft
+    Pierces the moving mark! Oh! 'tis conceit
+    In moralists to call the chase a vice;
+    What recreation can compare with this?
+
+MATHAVYA [_angrily_].--Away! tempter, away! The King has recovered his
+senses, and is himself again. As for you, you may, if you choose, wander
+about from forest to forest, till some old bear seizes you by the nose,
+and makes a mouthful of you.
+
+KING.--My good General, as we are just now in the neighborhood of a
+consecrated grove, your panegyric upon hunting is somewhat ill-timed,
+and I cannot assent to all you have said. For the present,
+    All undisturbed the buffaloes shall sport
+    In yonder pool, and with their ponderous horns
+    Scatter its tranquil waters, while the deer,
+    Couched here and there in groups beneath the shade
+    Of spreading branches, ruminate in peace.
+    And all securely shall the herd of boars
+    Feed on the marshy sedge; and thou, my bow,
+    With slackened string enjoy a long repose.
+
+GENERAL.--So please your Majesty, it shall be as you desire.
+
+KING.--Recall, then, the beaters who were sent in advance to surround
+the forest. My troops must not be allowed to disturb this sacred
+retreat, and irritate its pious inhabitants.
+    Know that within the calm and cold recluse
+    Lurks unperceived a germ of smothered flame,
+    All-potent to destroy; a latent fire
+    That rashly kindled bursts with fury forth:--
+    As in the disc of crystal that remains
+    Cool to the touch, until the solar ray
+    Falls on its polished surface, and excites
+    The burning heat that lies within concealed.
+
+GENERAL.--Your Majesty's commands shall be obeyed.
+
+MATHAVYA.--Off with you, you son of a slave! Your nonsense won't go down
+here, my fine fellow.          [_Exit General_.
+
+KING [_looking at his attendants_].--Here, women, take my hunting-dress;
+and you, Raivataka, keep guard carefully outside.
+
+ATTENDANTS.--We will, sire.          [_Exeunt._
+
+MATHAVYA.--Now that you have got rid of these plagues, who have been
+buzzing about us like so many flies, sit down, do, on that stone slab,
+with the shade of the tree as your canopy, and I will seat myself by you
+quite comfortably.
+
+KING.--Go you, and sit down first.
+
+MATHAVYA.--Come along, then.
+
+          [_Both walk on a little way, and seat themselves_.
+
+KING.--Mathavya, it may be said of you that you have never beheld
+anything worth seeing: for your eyes have not yet looked upon the
+loveliest object in creation.
+
+MATHAVYA.--How can you say so, when I see your Majesty before me at this
+moment?
+
+KING.--It is very natural that everyone should consider his own friend
+perfect; but I was alluding to Sakoontala, the brightest ornament of
+these hallowed groves.
+
+MATHAVYA [_aside_].--I understand well enough, but I am not going to
+humor him. [_Aloud_.] If, as you intimate, she is a hermit's daughter,
+you cannot lawfully ask her in marriage. You may as well, then, dismiss
+her from your mind, for any good the mere sight of her can do.
+
+KING.--Think you that a descendant of the mighty Puru could fix his
+affections on an unlawful object?
+    Though, as men say, the offspring of the sage,
+    The maiden to a nymph celestial owes
+    Her being, and by her mother left on earth,
+    Was found and nurtured by the holy man
+    As his own daughter, in this hermitage;--
+    So, when dissevered from its parent stalk,
+    Some falling blossom of the jasmine, wafted
+    Upon the sturdy sunflower, is preserved
+    By its support from premature decay.
+
+MATHAVYA [_smiling_].--This passion of yours for a rustic maiden, when
+you have so many gems of women at home in your palace, seems to me very
+like the fancy of a man who is tired of sweet dates, and longs for sour
+tamarinds as a variety.
+
+KING.--You have not seen her, or you would not talk in this fashion.
+
+MATHAVYA.--I can quite understand it must require something surpassingly
+attractive to excite the admiration of such a great man as you.
+
+KING.--I will describe her, my dear friend, in a few words--
+    Man's all-wise Maker, wishing to create
+    A faultless form, whose matchless symmetry
+    Should far transcend Creation's choicest works,
+    Did call together by his mighty will,
+    And garner up in his eternal mind,
+    A bright assemblage of all lovely things:--
+    And then, as in a picture, fashion them
+    Into one perfect and ideal form.
+    Such the divine, the wondrous prototype,
+    Whence her fair shape was moulded into being.
+
+MATHAVYA.--If that's the case, she must indeed throw all other beauties
+into the shade.
+
+KING.--To my mind she really does.
+    This peerless maid is like a fragrant flower,
+    Whose perfumed breath has never been diffused;
+    A tender bud, that no profaning hand
+    Has dared to sever from its parent stalk;
+    A gem of priceless water, just released
+    Pure and unblemished from its glittering bed.
+    Or may the maiden haply be compared
+    To sweetest honey, that no mortal lip
+    Has sipped; or, rather to the mellowed fruit
+    Of virtuous actions in some former birth,
+    Now brought to full perfection? Lives the man
+    Whom bounteous heaven has destined to espouse her?
+
+MATHAVYA.--Make haste, then, to her aid; you have no time to lose, if
+you don't wish this fruit of all the virtues to drop into the mouth of
+some greasy-headed rustic of devout habits.
+
+KING.--The lady is not her own mistress, and her foster-father is not at
+home.
+
+MATHAVYA.--Well, but tell me, did she look at all kindly upon you?
+
+KING.--Maidens brought up in a hermitage are naturally shy and reserved;
+but for all that,
+    She did look towards me, though she quick withdrew
+    Her stealthy glances when she met my gaze;
+    She smiled upon me sweetly, but disguised
+    With maiden grace the secret of her smiles.
+    Coy love was half unveiled; then, sudden checked
+    By modesty, left half to be divined.
+
+MATHAVYA.--Why, of course, my dear friend, you never could seriously
+expect that at the very first sight she would fall over head and ears in
+love with you, and without more ado come and sit in your lap.
+
+KING.--When we parted from each other, she betrayed her liking for me by
+clearer indications, but still with the utmost modesty.
+    Scarce had the fair one from my presence passed,
+    When, suddenly, without apparent cause,
+    She stopped, and counterfeiting pain, exclaimed,
+    "My foot is wounded by this prickly grass."
+    Then glancing at me tenderly, she feigned
+    Another charming pretext for delay,
+    Pretending that a bush had caught her robe,
+    And turned as if to disentangle it.
+
+MATHAVYA.--I trust you have laid in a good stock of provisions, for I
+see you intend making this consecrated grove your game-preserve, and
+will be roaming here in quest of sport for some time to come.
+
+KING.--You must know, my good fellow, that I have been recognized by
+some of the inmates of the hermitage. Now I want the assistance of your
+fertile invention, in devising some excuse for going there again.
+
+MATHAVYA.--There is but one expedient that I can suggest. You are the
+King, are you not?
+
+KING.--What then?
+
+MATHAVYA.--Say you have come for the sixth part of their grain, which
+they owe you for tribute.
+
+KING.--No, no, foolish man; these hermits pay me a very different kind
+of tribute, which I value more than heaps of gold or jewels; observe,
+    The tribute which my other subjects bring
+    Must moulder into dust, but holy men
+    Present me with a portion of the fruits
+    Of penitential services and prayers--
+    A precious and imperishable gift.
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--We are fortunate; here is the object of
+our search.
+
+KING [_listening],_--Surely those must be the voices of hermits, to
+judge by their deep tones.
+
+WARDER [_entering],_--Victory to the King! two young hermits are in
+waiting outside, and solicit an audience of your Majesty.
+
+KING.--Introduce them immediately.
+
+WARDER.--I will, my liege. [_Goes out, and reenters with two young
+Hermits_.] This way, Sirs, this way.
+
+          [_Both the Hermits look at the King_
+
+FIRST HERMIT.--How majestic is his mien, and yet what confidence it
+inspires! But this might be expected in a king whose character and
+habits have earned for him a title only one degree removed from that of
+a Saint.
+    In this secluded grove, whose sacred joys
+    All may participate, he deigns to dwell
+    Like one of us; and daily treasures up
+    A store of purest merit for himself,
+    By the protection of our holy rites.
+    In his own person wondrously are joined
+    Both majesty and saintlike holiness:--
+    And often chanted by inspired bards,
+    His hallowed title of "Imperial Sage"
+    Ascends in joyous accents to the skies.
+
+SECOND HERMIT.--Bear in mind, Gautama, that this is the great Dushyanta,
+the friend of Indra.
+
+FIRST HERMIT.--What of that?
+
+SECOND HERMIT.--Where is the wonder if his nervous arm,
+    Puissant and massive as the iron bar
+    That binds a castle-gateway, singly sways
+    The sceptre of the universal earth,
+    E'en to its dark-green boundary of waters?
+    Or if the gods, beholden to his aid
+    In their fierce warfare with the powers of hell,
+    Should blend his name with Indra's in their songs
+    Of victory, and gratefully accord
+    No lower meed of praise to his braced bow,
+    Than to the thunders of the god of heaven?
+
+BOTH THE HERMITS [_approaching_].--Victory to the King!
+
+KING [_rising from his seat_].--Hail to you both!
+
+BOTH THE HERMITS.--Heaven bless your Majesty!
+
+          [_They offer fruits_.
+
+KING [_respectfully receiving the offering_].--Tell me, I pray you, the
+object of your visit.
+
+BOTH THE HERMITS.--The inhabitants of the hermitage having heard of your
+Majesty's sojourn in our neighborhood, make this humble petition.
+
+KING.--What are their commands?
+
+BOTH THE HERMITS.--In the absence of our Superior, the great Sage Kanwa,
+evil demons are disturbing our sacrificial rites.[36] Deign, therefore,
+accompanied by your charioteer, to take up your abode in our hermitage
+for a few days.
+
+KING.--I am honored by your invitation.
+
+MATHAVYA [_aside_].--Most opportune and convenient, certainly!
+
+KING [_smiling_].--Ho! there, Raivataka! Tell the charioteer from me to
+bring round the chariot with my bow.
+
+WARDER.--I will, Sire.           [_Exit._
+
+BOTH THE HERMITS [_joyfully_].--Well it becomes the King by acts of
+grace
+    To emulate the virtues of his race.
+    Such acts thy lofty destiny attest;
+    Thy mission is to succor the distressed.
+
+KING [_bowing to the Hermits_].--Go first, reverend Sirs, I will follow
+you immediately.
+
+BOTH THE HERMITS.--May victory attend you!          [_Exeunt._
+
+KING.--My dear Mathavya, are you not full of longing to see Sakoontala?
+
+MATHAVYA.--To tell you the truth, though I was just now brimful of
+desire to see her, I have not a drop left since this piece of news about
+the demons.
+
+KING.--Never fear; you shall keep close to me for protection.
+
+MATHAVYA.--Well, you must be my guardian-angel, and act the part of a
+very Vishnu[37] to me.
+
+WARDER--[_entering_].--Sire, the chariot is ready, and only waits to
+conduct you to victory. But here is a messenger named Karabhaka, just
+arrived from your capital, with a message from the Queen, your mother.
+
+KING--[_respectfully_].--How say you? a messenger from the venerable
+Queen?
+
+WARDER.--Even so.
+
+KING.--Introduce him at once.
+
+WARDER.--I will, Sire. [_Goes out, and re-enters with Karabhaka_.]
+Behold the King! Approach.
+
+KARABHAKA.--Victory to the King! The Queen-mother bids me say that in
+four days from the present time she intends celebrating a solemn
+ceremony for the advancement and preservation of her son. She expects
+that your Majesty will honor her with your presence on that occasion.
+
+KING.--This places me in a dilemma. Here, on the one hand, is the
+commission of these holy men to be executed; and, on the other, the
+command of my revered parent to be obeyed. Both duties are too sacred to
+be neglected. What is to be done?
+
+MATHAVYA.--You will have to take up an intermediate position between the
+two, like King Trisanku, who was suspended between heaven and earth,
+because the sage Viswamitra commanded him to mount up to heaven, and the
+gods ordered him down again.
+
+KING.--I am certainly very much perplexed. For here,
+    Two different duties are required of me
+    In widely distant places; how can I
+    In my own person satisfy them both?
+    Thus is my mind distracted and impelled
+    In opposite directions, like a stream
+    That, driven back by rocks, still rushes on,
+    Forming two currents in its eddying course.
+[_Reflecting_.] Friend Mathavya, as you were my playfellow in childhood,
+the Queen has always received you like a second son; go you, then, back
+to her and tell her of my solemn engagement to assist these holy men.
+You can supply my place in the ceremony, and act the part of a son to
+the Queen.
+
+MATHAVYA.--With the greatest pleasure in the world; but don't suppose
+that I am really coward enough to have the slightest fear of those
+trumpery demons.
+
+KING [_smiling_].--Oh! of course not; a great Brahman like you could not
+possibly give way to such weakness.
+
+MATHAVYA.--You must let me travel in a manner suitable to the King's
+younger brother.
+
+KING.--Yes, I shall send my retinue with you, that there may be no
+further disturbance in this sacred forest.
+
+MATHAVYA [_with a strut_].--Already I feel quite like a young prince.
+
+KING [_aside_].--This is a giddy fellow, and in all probability he will
+let out the truth about my present pursuit to the women of the palace.
+What is to be done? I must say something to deceive him. [_Aloud to
+Mathavya, taking him by the hand_.] Dear friend, I am going to the
+hermitage wholly and solely out of respect for its pious inhabitants,
+and not because I have really any liking for Sakoontala, the hermit's
+daughter. Observe,
+    What suitable communion could there be
+    Between a monarch and a rustic girl?
+    I did but feign an idle passion, friend,
+    Take not in earnest what was said in jest.
+
+MATHAVYA.--Don't distress yourself; I quite understand.
+
+          [_Exeunt._
+
+
+[36] The religious rites of holy men were often disturbed by certain
+evil spirits called Rakshasas, who were the determined enemies of piety
+and devotion.
+
+[37] Vishnu, the Preserver, was one of the three principal gods.
+
+
+
+
+PRELUDE TO ACT THIRD
+
+Scene.--The Hermitage
+
+
+_Enter a young Brahman, carrying bundles of Kusa-grass for the use of
+the sacrificing priests_.
+
+YOUNG BRAHMAN.--How wonderful is the power of King Dushyanta! No sooner
+did he enter our hermitage, than we were able to proceed with our
+sacrificial rites, unmolested by the evil demons.
+    No need to fix the arrow to the bow;
+    The mighty monarch sounds the quivering string,
+    And, by the thunder of his arms dismayed,
+    Our demon foes are scattered to the wind.
+I must now, therefore, make haste and deliver to the sacrificing priests
+these bundles of Kusa-grass, to be strewn round the altar. [_Walking and
+looking about; then addressing someone off the stage_.] Why, Priyamvada,
+for whose use are you carrying that ointment of Usira-root and those
+lotus leaves with fibres attached to them? [_Listening for her answer_.]
+What say you?--that Sakoontala is suffering from fever produced by
+exposure to the sun, and that this ointment is to cool her burning
+frame? Nurse her with care, then, Priyamvada, for she is cherished by
+our reverend Superior as the very breath of his nostrils. I, for my
+part, will contrive that soothing waters, hallowed in the sacrifice, be
+administered to her by the hands of Gautami.
+          [_Exit._
+
+
+
+
+ACT THIRD
+
+Scene.--The Sacred Grove
+
+
+_Enter King Dushyanta, with the air of one in love_.
+
+KING [_sighing thoughtfully_].--The holy sage possesses magic power
+    In virtue of his penance; she, his ward,
+    Under the shadow of his tutelage
+    Rests in security. I know it well;
+    Yet sooner shall the rushing cataract
+    In foaming eddies re-ascend the steep,
+    Than my fond heart turn back from its pursuit.
+
+God of Love! God of the flowery shafts![38] we are all of us cruelly
+deceived by thee, and by the Moon, however deserving of confidence you
+may both appear.
+
+    For not to us do these thine arrows seem
+    Pointed with tender flowerets; not to us
+    Doth the pale moon irradiate the earth
+    With beams of silver fraught with cooling dews:--
+    But on our fevered frames the moon-beams fall
+    Like darts of fire, and every flower-tipped shaft
+    Of Kama, as it probes our throbbing hearts,
+    Seems to be barbed with hardest adamant.
+
+Adorable god of love! hast thou no pity for me? [_In a tone of
+anguish_.] How can thy arrows be so sharp when they are pointed with
+flowers? Ah! I know the reason:
+
+    E'en now in thine unbodied essence lurks
+    The fire of Siva's anger, like the flame
+    That ever hidden in the secret depths
+    Of ocean, smoulders there unseen. How else
+    Couldst thou, all immaterial as thou art,
+    Inflame our hearts thus fiercely?--thou, whose form
+    Was scorched to ashes by a sudden flash
+    From the offended god's terrific eye.
+Yet, methinks,
+    Welcome this anguish, welcome to my heart
+    These rankling wounds inflicted by the god,
+    Who on his scutcheon bears the monster-fish
+    Slain by his prowess: welcome death itself,
+    So that, commissioned by the lord of love,
+    This fair one be my executioner.
+
+Adorable divinity! Can I by no reproaches excite your commiseration?
+
+    Have I not daily offered at thy shrine
+    Innumerable vows, the only food
+    Of thine ethereal essence? Are my prayers
+    Thus to be slighted? Is it meet that thou
+    Shouldst aim thy shafts at thy true votary's heart,
+    Drawing thy bow-string even to thy ear?
+
+[_Pacing up and down in a melancholy manner_.] Now that the holy men
+have completed their rites, and have no more need of my services, how
+shall I dispel my melancholy? [_Sighing._ I have but one resource. Oh
+for another sight of the idol of my soul! I will seek her. [_Glancing at
+the sun._] In all probability, as the sun's heat is now at its height,
+Sakoontala is passing her time under the shade of the bowers on the
+banks of the Malini, attended by her maidens. I will go and look for her
+there. [_Walking and looking about._] I suspect the fair one has but
+just passed by this avenue of young-trees.
+
+    Here, as she tripped along, her fingers plucked
+    The opening buds: these lacerated plants,
+    Shorn of their fairest blossoms by her hand,
+    Seem like dismembered trunks, whose recent wounds
+    Are still unclosed; while from the bleeding socket
+    Of many a severed stalk, the milky juice
+    Still slowly trickles, and betrays her path.
+
+[_Feeling a breeze._] What a delicious breeze meets me in this spot!
+
+    Here may the zephyr, fragrant with the scent
+    Of lotuses, and laden with the spray
+    Caught from the waters of the rippling stream,
+    Fold in its close embrace my fevered limbs.
+
+[_Walking and looking about._] She must be somewhere in the neighborhood
+of this arbor of overhanging creepers, enclosed by plantations of cane.
+          [_Looking down._]
+
+    For at the entrance here I plainly see
+    A line of footsteps printed in the sand.
+    Here are the fresh impressions of her feet;
+    Their well-known outline faintly marked in front,
+    More deeply towards the heel; betokening
+    The graceful undulation of her gait.
+
+I will peep through those branches. [_Walking and looking. With
+transport._] Ah! now my eyes are gratified by an entrancing sight.
+Yonder is the beloved of my heart reclining on a rock strewn with
+flowers, and attended by her two friends. How fortunate! Concealed
+behind the leaves, I will listen to their conversation, without raising
+their suspicions.          [_Stands concealed, and gazes at them._]
+
+_Sakoontala and her two attendants, holding fans in their hands are
+discovered as described_.
+
+PRIYAMVADA AND ANASUYA [_fanning her. In a tone of affection._]--Dearest
+Sakoontala, is the breeze raised by these broad lotus leaves refreshing
+to you?
+
+SAKOONTALA.--Dear friends, why should you trouble yourselves to fan me?
+
+          [_Priyamvada and Anasuya look sorrowfully at one another._]
+
+KING.--Sakoontala seems indeed to be seriously ill. [_Thoughtfully._]Can
+it be the intensity of the heat that has affected her? or does my heart
+suggest the true cause of her malady? [_Gazing at her passionately._]
+Why should I doubt it?
+    The maiden's spotless bosom is o'erspread
+    With cooling balsam; on her slender arm
+    Her only bracelet, twined with lotus stalks,
+    Hangs loose and withered; her recumbent form
+    Expresses languor. Ne'er could noon-day sun
+    Inflict such fair disorder on a maid--
+    No, love, and love alone, is hereto blame.
+
+PRIYAMVADA [_aside to Anasuya._]--I have observed, Anasuya, that
+Sakoontala has been indisposed ever since her first interview with King
+Dushyanta. Depend upon it, her ailment is to be traced to this source.
+
+ANASUYA.--The same suspicion, dear Priyamvada, has crossed my mind. But
+I will at once ask her and ascertain the truth. [_Aloud._] Dear
+Sakoontala, I am about to put a question to you. Your indisposition is
+really very serious.
+
+SAKOONTALA [_half-rising from her couch_].--What were you going to ask?
+
+ANASUYA.--We know very little about love-matters, dear Sakoontala; but
+for all that, I cannot help suspecting your present state to be
+something similar to that of the lovers we have read about in romances.
+Tell us frankly what is the cause of your disorder. It is useless to
+apply a remedy, until the disease be understood.
+
+KING.--Anasuya bears me out in my suspicion.
+
+SAKOONTALA [_aside_].--I am, indeed, deeply in love; but cannot rashly
+disclose my passion to these young girls.
+
+PRIYAMVADA.--What Anasuya says, dear Sakoontala, is very just. Why give
+so little heed to your ailment? Every day you are becoming thinner;
+though I must confess your complexion is still as beautiful as ever.
+
+KING.--Priyamvada speaks most truly.
+    Sunk is her velvet cheek; her wasted bosom
+    Loses its fulness; e'en her slender waist
+    Grows more attenuate; her face is wan,
+    Her shoulders droop;--as when the vernal blasts
+    Sear the young blossoms of the Madhavi,
+    Blighting their bloom; so mournful is the change,
+    Yet in its sadness, fascinating still,
+    Inflicted by the mighty lord of love
+    On the fair figure of the hermit's daughter.
+
+SAKOONTALA.--Dear friends, to no one would I rather reveal the nature of
+my malady than to you; but I should only be troubling you.
+
+PRIYAMVADA AND ANASUYA.--Nay, this is the very point about which we are
+so solicitous. Sorrow shared with affectionate friends is relieved of
+half its poignancy.
+
+KING.--Pressed by the partners of her joys and griefs, Her much beloved
+companions, to reveal The cherished secret locked within her breast,
+She needs must utter it; although her looks Encourage me to hope, my
+bosom throbs As anxiously I listen for her answer.
+
+SAKOONTALA.--Know then, dear friends, that from the first moment the
+illustrious Prince, who is the guardian of our sacred grove, presented
+himself to my sight--
+          [_Stops short, and appears confused._]
+
+PRIYAMVADA AND ANASUYA.--Say on, dear Sakoontala, say on.
+
+SAKOONTALA.--Ever since that happy moment, my heart's affections have
+been fixed upon him, and my energies of mind and body have all deserted
+me, as you see.
+
+KING [_with rapture_].--Her own lips have uttered the words I most
+longed to hear.
+    Love lit the flame, and Love himself allays
+    My burning fever, as when gathering clouds
+    Rise o'er the earth in summer's dazzling noon,
+    And grateful showers dispel the morning heat.
+
+SAKOONTALA.--You must consent, then, dear friends, to contrive some
+means by which I may find favor with the King, or you will have ere long
+to assist at my funeral.
+
+KING [_with rapture_].--Enough! These words remove all my doubts.
+
+PRIYAMVADA [_aside to Anasuya_].--She is far gone in love, dear Anasuya,
+and no time ought to be lost. Since she has fixed her affections on a
+monarch who is the ornament of Puru's line, we need not hesitate for a
+moment to express our approval.
+
+ANASUYA.--I quite agree with you.
+
+PRIYAMVADA [_aloud_].--We wish you joy, dear Sakoontala. Your affections
+are fixed on an object in every respect worthy of you. The noblest river
+will unite itself to the ocean, and the lovely Madhavi-creeper clings
+naturally to the Mango, the only tree capable of supporting it.
+
+KING.--Why need we wonder if the beautiful constellation Visakha pines
+to be united with the Moon.
+
+ANASUYA.--By what stratagem can we best secure to our friend the
+accomplishment of her heart's desire, both speedily and secretly?
+
+PRIYAMVADA.--The latter point is all we have to think about. As to
+"speedily," I look upon the whole affair as already settled.
+
+ANASUYA.--How so?
+
+PRIYAMVADA.--Did you not observe how the King betrayed his liking by the
+tender manner in which he gazed upon her, and how thin he has become the
+last few days, as if he had been lying awake thinking of her?
+
+KING [_looking at himself_].--Quite true! I certainly am becoming thin
+from want of sleep:--
+    As night by night in anxious thought I raise
+    This wasted arm to rest my sleepless head,
+    My jewelled bracelet, sullied by the tears
+    That trickle from my eyes in scalding streams,
+    Slips towards my elbow from my shrivelled wrist.
+    Oft I replace the bauble, but in vain;
+    So easily it spans the fleshless limb
+    That e'en the rough and corrugated skin,
+    Scarred by the bow-string, will not check its fall.
+
+PRIYAMVADA [_thoughtfully_].--An idea strikes me, Anasuya. Let
+Sakoontala write a love-letter; I will conceal it in a flower, and
+contrive to drop it in the King's path. He will surely mistake it for
+the remains of some sacred offering, and will, in all probability, pick
+it up.
+
+ANASUYA.--A very ingenious device! It has my entire approval; but what
+says Sakoontala?
+
+SAKOONTALA.--I must consider before I can consent to it.
+
+PRIYAMVADA.--Could you not, dear Sakoontala, think of some pretty
+composition in verse, containing a delicate declaration of your love?
+
+SAKOONTALA.--Well, I will do my best; but my heart trembles when I think
+of the chances of a refusal.
+
+KING [_with rapture_].--Too timid maid, here stands the man from whom
+    Thou fearest a repulse; supremely blessed
+    To call thee all his own. Well might he doubt
+    His title to thy love; but how couldst thou
+    Believe thy beauty powerless to subdue him?
+
+PRIYAMVADA AND ANASUYA.--You undervalue your own merits, dear
+Sakoontala. What man in his senses would intercept with the skirt of his
+robe the bright rays of the autumnal moon, which alone can allay the
+fever of his body?
+
+SAKOONTALA [_smiling_].--Then it seems I must do as I am bid.
+          [_Sits down and appears to be thinking._]
+
+KING.--How charming she looks! My very eyes forget to wink, jealous of
+losing even for an instant a sight so enchanting.
+    How beautiful the movement of her brow,
+    As through her mind love's tender fancies flow!
+    And, as she weighs her thoughts, how sweet to trace
+    The ardent passion mantling in her face!
+
+SAKOONTALA.--Dear girls, I have thought of a verse, but I have no
+writing-materials at hand.
+
+PRIYAMVADA.--Write the letters with your nail on this lotus leaf, which
+is smooth as a parrot's breast.
+
+SAKOONTALA [_after writing the verse_].--Listen, dear friends, and tell
+me whether the ideas are appropriately expressed.
+
+PRIYAMVADA AND ANASUYA.--We are all attention.
+
+SAKOONTALA [_reads_].--
+    I know not the secret thy bosom conceals,
+      Thy form is not near me to gladden my sight;
+    But sad is the tale that my fever reveals,
+      Of the love that consumes me by day and by night.
+
+KING [_advancing hastily towards her_].--
+    Nay, Love does but warm thee, fair maiden--thy frame
+      Only droops like the bud in the glare of the noon;
+    But me he consumes with a pitiless flame,
+      As the beams of the day-star destroy the pale moon.
+
+PRIYAMVADA AND ANASUYA [_looking at him joyfully, and rising to salute
+him_].--Welcome, the desire of our hearts, that so speedily presents
+itself!
+
+          [_Sakoontala makes an effort to rise._]
+
+KING.--Nay, trouble not thyself, dear maiden,
+      Move not to do me homage; let thy limbs
+      Still softly rest upon their flowery couch,
+      And gather fragrance from the lotus stalks
+      Bruised by the fevered contact of thy frame.
+
+ANASUYA.--Deign, gentle Sir, to seat yourself on the rock on which our
+friend is reposing.
+
+          [_The King sits down. Sakoontala is confused._]
+
+PRIYAMVADA.--Anyone may see at a glance that you are deeply attached to
+each other. But the affection I have for my friend prompts me to say
+something of which you hardly require to be informed.
+
+KING.--Do not hesitate to speak out, my good girl. If you omit to say
+what is in your mind, you may be sorry for it afterwards.
+
+PRIYAMVADA.--Is it not your special office as a King to remove the
+suffering of your subjects who are in trouble?
+
+KING.--Such is my duty, most assuredly.
+
+PRIYAMVADA.--Know, then, that our dear friend has been brought to her
+present state of suffering entirely through love for you. Her life is in
+your hands; take pity on her and restore her to health.
+
+KING.--Excellent maiden, our attachment is mutual. It is I who am the
+most honored by it.
+
+SAKOONTALA [_looking at Priyamvada_].--What do you mean by detaining the
+King, who must be anxious to return to his royal consorts after so long
+a separation?
+
+KING.--Sweet maiden, banish from thy mind the thought
+    That I could love another. Thou dost reign
+    Supreme, without a rival, in my heart,
+    And I am thine alone: disown me not,
+    Else must I die a second deadlier death--
+    Killed by thy words, as erst by Kama's shafts.
+
+ANASUYA.--Kind Sir, we have heard it said that kings have many favorite
+consorts. You must not, then, by your behavior towards our dear friend,
+give her relations cause to sorrow for her.
+
+KING.--Listen, gentle maiden, while in a few words I quiet your anxiety.
+    Though many beauteous forms my palace grace,
+    Henceforth two things alone will I esteem
+    The glory of my royal dynasty;--
+    My sea-girt realm, and this most lovely maid.
+
+PRIYAMVADA AND ANASUYA.--We are satisfied by your assurances.
+
+PRIYAMVADA [_glancing on one side_],--See, Anasuya, there is our
+favorite little fawn running about in great distress, and turning its
+eyes in every direction as if looking for its mother; come, let us help
+the little thing to find her.
+
+          [_Both move away._]
+
+SAKOONTALA.--Dear friends, dear friends, leave me not alone and
+unprotected. Why need you both go?
+
+PRIYAMVADA AND ANASUYA.--Unprotected! when the Protector of the world is
+at your side.          [_Exeunt._]
+
+SAKOONTALA.--What! have they both really left me?
+
+KING.--Distress not thyself, sweet maiden. Thy adorer is at hand to wait
+upon thee.
+    Oh, let me tend thee, fair one, in the place
+    Of thy dear friends; and, with broad lotus fans,
+    Raise cooling breezes to refresh thy frame;
+    Or shall I rather, with caressing touch,
+    Allay the fever of thy limbs, and soothe
+    Thy aching feet, beauteous as blushing lilies?
+
+SAKOONTALA.--Nay, touch me not. I will not incur the censure of those
+whom I am bound to respect.
+          [_Rises and attempts to go._]
+
+KING.--Fair one, the heat of noon has not yet subsided, and thy body is
+still feeble.
+    How canst thou quit thy fragrant couch of flowers,
+    And from thy throbbing bosom cast aside
+    Its covering of lotus leaves, to brave
+    With weak and fainting limbs the noon-day heat?
+
+[_Forces her to turn back._]
+
+SAKOONTALA.--Infringe not the rules of decorum, mighty descendant of
+Puru. Remember, though I love you, I have no power to dispose of myself.
+
+KING.--Why this fear of offending your relations, timid maid? When your
+venerable foster-father hears of it, he will not find fault with you. He
+knows that the law permits us to be united without consulting him.
+    In Indra's heaven, so at least 'tis said,
+    No nuptial rites prevail,[39] nor is the bride
+    Led to the altar by her future spouse;
+    But all in secret does the bridegroom plight
+    His troth, and each unto the other vow
+    Mutual allegiance. Such espousals, too,
+    Are authorized on earth, and many daughters
+    Of royal saints thus wedded to their lords,
+    Have still received their father's benison.
+
+SAKOONTALA.--Leave me, leave me; I must take counsel with my female
+friends.
+
+KING.--I will leave thee when------
+
+SAKOONTALA.--When?
+
+KING.--When I have gently stolen from thy lips
+    Their yet untasted nectar, to allay
+    The raging of my thirst, e'en as the bee
+    Sips the fresh honey from the opening bud.
+          [_Attempts to raise her face. Sakoontala tries to prevent him_.
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--The loving birds, doomed by fate to
+nightly separation, must bid farewell to each other, for evening is at
+hand.
+
+SAKOONTALA [_in confusion_].--Great Prince, I hear the voice of the
+matron Gautami. She is coming this way, to inquire after my health.
+Hasten and conceal yourself behind the branches.
+
+KING.--I will.          [_Conceals himself_.
+
+_Enter Gautami with a vase in her hand, preceded by two attendants_.
+
+ATTENDANTS.--This way, most venerable Gautami.
+
+GAUTAMI [_approaching Sakoontala_].--My child, is the fever of thy limbs
+allayed?
+
+SAKOONTALA.--Venerable mother, there is certainly a change for the
+better.
+
+GAUTAMI.--Let me sprinkle you with this holy water, and all your
+ailments will depart. [_Sprinkling Sakoontala on the head_.] The day is
+closing, my child; come, let us go to the cottage.
+          [_They all move away_.
+
+SAKOONTALA [_aside_].--Oh my heart! thou didst fear to taste of
+happiness when it was within thy reach. Now that the object of thy
+desires is torn from thee, how bitter will be thy remorse, how
+distracting thine anguish! [_Moving on a few steps and stopping.
+Aloud_.] Farewell! bower of creepers, sweet soother of my sufferings,
+farewell! may I soon again be happy under thy shade.
+          [_Exit reluctantly with the others_.
+
+KING [_returning to his former seat in the arbor. Sighing_].--Alas! how
+many are the obstacles to the accomplishment of our wishes!
+    Albeit she did coyly turn away
+    Her glowing cheek, and with her fingers guard
+    Her pouting lips, that murmured a denial
+    In faltering accents, she did yield herself
+    A sweet reluctant captive to my will,
+    As eagerly I raised her lovely face:
+    But ere with gentle force I stole the kiss,
+    Too envious Fate did mar my daring purpose.
+Whither now shall I betake myself? I will tarry for a brief space in
+this bower of creepers, so endeared to me by the presence of my beloved
+Sakoontala.
+          [_Looking round_.
+    Here printed on the flowery couch I see
+    The fair impression of her slender limbs;
+    Here is the sweet confession of her love,
+    Traced with her nail upon the lotus leaf--
+    And yonder are the withered lily stalks
+    That graced her wrist. While all around I view
+    Things that recall her image, can I quit
+    This bower, e'en though its living charm be fled?
+
+A VOICE [_in the air_].--Great King,
+    Scarce is our evening sacrifice begun,
+    When evil demons, lurid as the clouds
+    That gather round the dying orb of day,
+    Cluster in hideous troops, obscene and dread,
+    About our altars, casting far and near
+    Terrific shadows, while the sacred fire
+    Sheds a pale lustre o'er their ghostly shapes.
+
+KING.--I come to the rescue, I come.
+          [_Exit._
+
+
+[38] Kama, the Hindoo Cupid, or god of love. He has five arrows, each
+tipped with the blossom of a flower, which pierce the heart through the
+five senses.
+
+[39] A marriage without the usual ceremonies is called Gandharva. It was
+supposed to be the form of marriage prevalent among the nymphs of
+Indra's heaven.
+
+
+
+
+PRELUDE TO ACT FOURTH
+
+Scene.--The Garden of the Hermitage
+
+
+_Enter Priyamvada and Anasuya in the act of gathering flowers_.
+
+ANASUYA.--Although, dear Priyamvada, it rejoices my heart to think that
+Sakoontala has been happily united to a husband in every respect worthy
+of her, by the form of marriage prevalent among Indra's celestial
+musicians, nevertheless, I cannot help feeling somewhat uneasy in my
+mind.
+
+PRIYAMVADA.--How so?
+
+ANASUYA.--You know that the pious King was gratefully dismissed by the
+hermits on the successful termination of their sacrificial rites. He has
+now returned to his capital, leaving Sakoontala under our care; and it
+may be doubted whether, in the society of his royal consorts, he will
+not forget all that has taken place in this hermitage of ours.
+
+PRIYAMVADA.--On that score be at ease. Persons of his noble nature are
+not so destitute of all honorable feeling. I confess, however, that
+there is one point about which I am rather anxious. What, think you,
+will father Kanwa say when he hears what has occurred?
+
+ANASUYA.--In my opinion, he will approve the marriage.
+
+PRIYAMVADA.--What makes you think so?
+
+ANASUYA.--From the first, it was always his fixed purpose to bestow the
+maiden on a husband worthy of her; and since heaven has given her such a
+husband, his wishes have been realized without any trouble to himself.
+
+PRIYAMVADA [_looking at the flower-basket_].--We have gathered flowers
+enough for the sacred offering, dear Anasuya.
+
+ANASUYA.--Well, then, let us now gather more, that we may have wherewith
+to propitiate the guardian-deity of our dear Sakoontala.
+
+PRIYAMVADA.--By all means.          [_They continue gathering_.
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--Ho there! See you not that I am here?
+
+ANASUYA [_listening_].--That must be the voice of a guest announcing his
+arrival.
+
+PRIYAMVADA.--Surely, Sakoontala is not absent from the cottage.
+[_Aside_.] Her heart at least is absent, I fear.
+
+ANASUYA.--Come along, come along; we have gathered flowers enough.
+          [_They move away_.
+
+THE SAME VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--Woe to thee, maiden, for daring
+to slight a guest like me!
+    Shall I stand here unwelcomed; even I,
+    A very mine of penitential merit,
+    Worthy of all respect? Shalt thou, rash maid,
+    Thus set at nought the ever sacred ties
+    Of hospitality? and fix thy thoughts
+    Upon the cherished object of thy love,
+    While I am present? Thus I curse thee, then--
+    He, even he of whom thou thinkest, he
+    Shall think no more of thee; nor in his heart
+    Retain thine image. Vainly shalt thou strive
+    To waken his remembrance of the past;
+    He shall disown thee, even as the sot,
+    Roused from his midnight drunkenness, denies
+    The words he uttered in his revellings.
+
+PRIYAMVADA.--Alas! alas! I fear a terrible misfortune has occurred.
+Sakoontala, from absence of mind, must have offended some guest whom she
+was bound to treat with respect. [_Looking behind the scenes_.] Ah! yes;
+I see, and no less a person than the great sage Durvasas, who is known
+to be most irascible. He it is that has just cursed her, and is now
+retiring with hasty strides, trembling with passion, and looking as if
+nothing could turn him. His wrath is like a consuming fire.
+
+ANASUYA.--Go quickly, dear Priyamvada, throw yourself at his feet, and
+persuade him to come back, while I prepare a propitiatory offering for
+him, with water and refreshments.
+
+PRIYAMVADA.--I will.          [_Exit._
+
+ANASUYA [_advancing hastily a few steps and stumbling_].--Alas! alas!
+this comes of being in a hurry. My foot has slipped and my basket of
+flowers has fallen from my hand.
+          [_Stays to gather them up_.
+
+PRIYAMVADA [_reentering_].--Well, dear Anasuya, I have done my best; but
+what living being could succeed in pacifying such a cross-grained,
+ill-tempered old fellow? However, I managed to mollify him a little.
+
+ANASUYA [_smiling_].--Even a little was much for him. Say on.
+
+PRIYAMVADA.--When he refused to turn back, I implored his forgiveness in
+these words: "Most venerable sage, pardon, I beseech you, this first
+offence of a young and inexperienced girl, who was ignorant of the
+respect due to your saintly character and exalted rank."
+
+ANASUYA.--And what did he reply?
+
+PRIYAMVADA.--"My word must not be falsified; but at the sight of the
+ring of recognition the spell shall cease." So saying, he disappeared.
+
+ANASUYA.--Oh! then we may breathe again; for now I think of it, the King
+himself, at his departure, fastened on Sakoontala's finger, as a token
+of remembrance, a ring on which his own name was engraved. She has,
+therefore, a remedy for her misfortune at her own command.
+
+PRIYAMVADA.--Come, dear Anasuya, let us proceed with our religious
+duties.          [_They walk away_.
+
+PRIYAMVADA [_looking off the stage_].--See, Anasuya, there sits our dear
+friend, motionless as a statue, resting her face on her left hand, her
+whole mind absorbed in thinking of her absent husband. She can pay no
+attention to herself, much less to a stranger.
+
+ANASUYA.--Priyamvada, let this affair never pass our lips. We must spare
+our dear friend's feelings. Her constitution is too delicate to bear
+much emotion.
+
+PRIYAMVADA.--I agree with you. Who would think of watering a tender
+jasmine with hot water?
+
+
+
+
+ACT FOURTH
+
+Scene.--The Neighborhood of the Hermitage
+
+
+_Enter one of Kanwa's pupils, just arisen from his couch at the dawn of
+day_.
+
+PUPIL.--My master, the venerable Kanwa, who is but lately returned from
+his pilgrimage, has ordered me to ascertain how the time goes. I have
+therefore come into the open air to see if it be still dark. [_Walking
+and looking about_.] Oh! the dawn has already broken.
+    Lo! in one quarter of the sky, the Moon,
+    Lord of the herbs and night-expanding flowers,
+    Sinks towards his bed behind the western hills;
+    While in the east, preceded by the Dawn,
+    His blushing charioteer, the glorious Sun
+    Begins his course, and far into the gloom
+    Casts the first radiance of his orient beams,
+    Hail! co-eternal orbs, that rise to set,
+    And set to rise again; symbols divine
+    Of man's reverses, life's vicissitudes.
+And now,
+    While the round Moon withdraws his looming disc
+    Beneath the western sky, the full-blown flower
+    Of the night-loving lotus sheds her leaves
+    In sorrow for his loss, bequeathing nought
+    But the sweet memory of her loveliness
+    To my bereaved sight: e'en as the bride
+    Disconsolately mourns her absent lord,
+    And yields her heart a prey to anxious grief.
+
+ANASUYA [_entering abruptly_].--Little as I know of the ways of the
+world, I cannot help thinking that King Dushyanta is treating Sakoontala
+very improperly.
+
+PUPIL.--Well, I must let my revered preceptor know that it is time to
+offer the burnt oblation.          [_Exit._
+
+ANASUYA.--I am broad awake, but what shall I do? I have no energy to go
+about my usual occupations. My hands and feet seem to have lost their
+power. Well, Love has gained his object; and Love only is to blame for
+having induced our dear friend, in the innocence of her heart, to
+confide in such a perfidious man. Possibly, however, the imprecation of
+Durvasas may be already taking effect. Indeed, I cannot otherwise
+account for the King's strange conduct, in allowing so long a time to
+elapse without even a letter; and that, too, after so many promises and
+protestations. I cannot think what to do, unless we send him the ring
+which was to be the token of recognition. But which of these austere
+hermits could we ask to be the bearer of it? Then, again, Father Kanwa
+has just returned from his pilgrimage: and how am I to inform him of
+Sakoontala's marriage to King Dushyanta, and her expectation of being
+soon a mother? I never could bring myself to tell him, even if I felt
+that Sakoontala had been in fault, which she certainly has not. What is
+to be done?
+
+PRIYAMVADA [_entering; joyfully_].--Quick! quick! Anasuya! come and
+assist in the joyful preparations for Sakoontala's departure to her
+husband's palace.
+
+ANASUYA.--My dear girl, what can you mean?
+
+PRIYAMVADA.--Listen, now, and I will tell you all about it. I went just
+now to Sakoontala, to inquire whether she had slept comfortably--
+
+ANASUYA.--Well, well; go on.
+
+PRIYAMVADA.--She was sitting with her face bowed down to the very ground
+with shame, when Father Kanwa entered and, embracing her, of his own
+accord offered her his congratulations. "I give thee joy, my child," he
+said, "we have had an auspicious omen. The priest who offered the
+oblation dropped it into the very centre of the sacred fire, though
+thick smoke obstructed his vision. Henceforth thou wilt cease to be an
+object of compassion. This very day I purpose sending thee, under the
+charge of certain trusty hermits, to the King's palace; and shall
+deliver thee into the hands of thy husband, as I would commit knowledge
+to the keeping of a wise and faithful student."
+
+ANASUYA.--Who, then, informed the holy Father of what passed in his
+absence?
+
+PRIYAMVADA.--As he was entering the sanctuary of the consecrated fire,
+an invisible being chanted a verse in celestial strains.
+
+ANASUYA [_with astonishment_].--Indeed! pray repeat it.
+
+PRIYAMVADA [_repeats the verse_].--
+    Glows in thy daughter King Dushyanta's glory,
+      As in the sacred tree the mystic fire.
+    Let worlds rejoice to hear the welcome story;
+      And may the son immortalize the sire.
+
+ANASUYA [_embracing Priyamvada_].--Oh, my dear Priyamvada, what
+delightful news! I am pleased beyond measure; yet when I think that we
+are to lose our dear Sakoontala this very day, a feeling of melancholy
+mingles with my joy.
+
+PRIYAMVADA.--We shall find means of consoling ourselves after her
+departure. Let the dear creature only be made happy, at any cost.
+
+ANASUYA.--Yes, yes, Priyamvada, it shall be so; and now to prepare our
+bridal array. I have always looked forward to this occasion, and some
+time since, I deposited a beautiful garland of Kesara flowers in a
+cocoa-nut box, and suspended it on a bough of yonder mango-tree. Be good
+enough to stretch out your hand and take it down, while I compound
+unguents and perfumes with this consecrated paste and these blades of
+sacred grass.
+
+PRIYAMVADA.--Very well.
+
+          [_Exit Anasuya. Priyamvada takes down the flowers._
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--Gautami, bid Sarngarava and the others
+hold themselves in readiness to escort Sakoontala.
+
+PRIYAMVADA [_listening_].--Quick, quick, Anasuya! They are calling the
+hermits who are to go with Sakoontala to Hastinapur.
+
+ANASUYA [_reentering, with the perfumed unguents in her hand_].--Come
+along then, Priyamvada; I am ready to go with you. [_They walk away_.
+
+PRIYAMVADA [_looking_].--See! there sits Sakoontala, her locks arranged
+even at this early hour of the morning. The holy women of the hermitage
+are congratulating her, and invoking blessings on her head, while they
+present her with wedding-gifts and offerings of consecrated wild-rice.
+Let us join them.          [_They approach_.
+
+_Sakoontala is seen seated, with women surrounding her, occupied in the
+manner described_.
+
+FIRST WOMAN [_to Sakoontala_].--My child, may'st thou receive the title
+of "Chief-queen," and may thy husband delight to honor thee above all
+others!
+
+SECOND WOMAN.--My child, may'st thou be the mother of a hero!
+
+THIRD WOMAN.--My child, may'st thou be highly honored by thy lord!
+
+[_Exeunt all the women, excepting Gautami, after blessing Sakoontala._
+
+PRIYAMVADA AND ANASUYA [_approaching_].--Dear Sakoontala, we are come to
+assist you at your toilet, and may a blessing attend it!
+
+SAKOONTALA.--Welcome, dear friends, welcome. Sit down here.
+
+PRIYAMVADA AND ANASUYA [_taking the baskets containing the bridal
+decorations, and sitting down_].--Now, then, dearest, prepare to let us
+dress you. We must first rub your limbs with these perfumed unguents.
+
+SAKOONTALA.--I ought indeed to be grateful for your kind offices, now
+that I am so soon to be deprived of them. Dear, dear friends, perhaps I
+shall never be dressed by you again.          [_Bursts into tears_.
+
+PRIYAMVADA AND ANASUYA.--Weep not, dearest, tears are out of season on
+such a happy occasion.
+
+          [_They wipe away her tears and begin to dress her_.
+
+PRIYAMVADA.--Alas! these simple flowers and rude ornaments which our
+hermitage offers in abundance, do not set off your beauty as it
+deserves.
+
+          _Enter two young Hermits, bearing costly presents_.
+
+BOTH HERMITS.--Here are ornaments suitable for a queen.
+
+          [_The women look at them in astonishment_.
+
+GAUTAMI.--Why, Narada, my son, whence came these?
+
+FIRST HERMIT.--You owe them to the devotion of Father Kanwa.
+
+GAUTAMI.--Did he create them by the power of his own mind?
+
+SECOND HERMIT.--Certainly not; but you shall hear. The venerable sage
+ordered us to collect flowers for Sakoontala from the forest-trees; and
+we went to the wood for that purpose, when
+    Straightway depending from a neighboring tree
+    Appeared a robe of linen tissue, pure
+    And spotless as a moon-beam--mystic pledge
+    Of bridal happiness; another tree
+    Distilled a roseate dye wherewith to stain
+    The lady's feet; and other branches near
+    Glistened with rare and costly ornaments.
+    While, 'midst the leaves, the hands of forest-nymphs,
+    Vying in beauty with the opening buds,
+    Presented us with sylvan offerings.
+
+PRIYAMVADA [_looking at Sakoontala_].--The wood-nymphs have done you
+honor, indeed. This favor doubtless signifies that you are soon to be
+received as a happy wife into your husband's house, and are from this
+forward to become the partner of his royal fortunes.
+          [_Sakoontala appears confused_.
+
+FIRST HERMIT.--Come, Gautama; Father Kanwa has finished his ablutions.
+Let us go and inform him of the favor we have received from the deities
+who preside over our trees.
+
+SECOND HERMIT.--By all means.          [_Exeunt._
+
+PRIYAMVADA AND ANASUYA.--Alas! what are we to do? We are unused to such
+splendid decorations, and are at a loss how to arrange them. Our
+knowledge of painting must be our guide. We will dispose the ornaments
+as we have seen them in pictures.
+
+SAKOONTALA.--Whatever pleases you, dear girls, will please me. I have
+perfect confidence in your taste. [_They commence dressing her_.
+
+          _Enter Kanwa, having just finished his ablutions_.
+
+KANWA.--This day my loved one leaves me, and my heart
+    Is heavy with its grief: the streams of sorrow
+    Choked at the source, repress my faltering voice.
+    I have no words to speak; mine eyes are dimmed
+    By the dark shadows of the thoughts that rise
+    Within my soul. If such the force of grief
+    In an old hermit parted from his nursling,
+    What anguish must the stricken parent feel--
+    Bereft forever of an only daughter?
+          [_Advances towards Sakoontala_
+
+PRIYAMVADA AND ANASUYA.--Now, dearest Sakoontala, we have finished
+decorating you. You have only to put on the two linen mantles.
+           [_Sakoontala rises and puts them on_.
+
+GAUTAMI.--Daughter, see, here comes thy foster-father; he is eager to
+fold thee in his arms; his eyes swim with tears of joy. Hasten to do him
+reverence.
+
+SAKOONTALA [_reverently_].--My father, I salute you.
+
+KANWA.--My daughter,
+    May'st thou be highly honored by thy lord,
+    E'en as Yayati Sarmishtha adored!
+    And, as she bore him Puru; so may'st thou
+    Bring forth a son to whom the world shall bow!
+
+GAUTAMI.--Most venerable father, she accepts your benediction as if she
+already possessed the boon it confers.
+
+KANWA.--Now come this way, my child, and walk reverently round these
+sacrificial fires.          [_They all walk round_.
+
+KANWA [_repeats a prayer in the metre of the Rig-veda_].--
+    Holy flames, that gleam around
+    Every altar's hallowed ground;
+    Holy flames, whose frequent food
+    Is the consecrated wood,
+    And for whose encircling bed,
+    Sacred Kusa-grass is spread;
+    Holy flames, that waft to heaven
+    Sweet oblations daily given,
+    Mortal guilt to purge away;--
+    Hear, oh hear me, when I pray--
+    Purify my child this day!
+Now then, my daughter, set out on thy journey. [_Looking on one side_.]
+Where are thy attendants, Sarngarava and the others?
+
+YOUNG HERMIT [_entering_].--Here we are, most venerable father.
+
+KANWA.--Lead the way for thy sister.
+
+SARNGARAVA.--Come, Sakoontala, let us proceed.
+          [_All move away_.
+
+KANWA.--Hear me, ye trees that surround our hermitage!
+    Sakoontala ne'er moistened in the stream
+    Her own parched lips, till she had fondly poured
+    Its purest water on your thirsty roots;
+    And oft, when she would fain have decked her hair
+    With your thick-clustering blossoms, in her love
+    She robbed you not e'en of a single flower.
+    Her highest joy was ever to behold
+    The early glory of your opening buds:
+    Oh, then, dismiss her with a kind farewell!
+    This very day she quits her father's home,
+    To seek the palace of her wedded lord.
+          [_The note of a Koeil is heard_.
+    Hark! heard'st thou not the answer of the trees,
+    Our sylvan sisters, warbled in the note
+    Of the melodious Koeil? they dismiss
+    Their dear Sakoontala with loving wishes.
+
+VOICES [_in the air_].--
+    Fare thee well, journey pleasantly on amid streams
+    Where the lotuses bloom, and the sun's glowing beams
+    Never pierce the deep shade of the wide-spreading trees,
+    While gently around thee shall sport the cool breeze;
+    Then light be thy footsteps and easy thy tread,
+    Beneath thee shall carpets of lilies be spread.
+    Journey on to thy lord, let thy spirit be gay,
+    For the smiles of all Nature shall gladden thy way.
+          [_All listen with astonishment_.
+
+GAUTAMI.--Daughter! the nymphs of the wood, who love thee with the
+affection of a sister, dismiss thee with kind wishes for thy happiness.
+Take thou leave of them reverentially.
+
+SAKOONTALA [_bowing respectfully and walking on. Aside to her
+friend_].--Eager as I am, dear Priyamvada, to see my husband once more,
+yet my feet refuse to move, now that I am quitting forever the home of
+my girlhood.
+
+PRIYAMVADA.--You are not the only one, dearest, to feel the bitterness
+of parting. As the time of separation approaches, the whole grove seems
+to share your anguish.
+    In sorrow for thy loss, the herd of deer
+    Forget to browse; the peacock on the lawn
+    Ceases its dance; the very trees around us
+    Shed their pale leaves, like tears, upon the ground.
+
+SAKOONTALA [_recollecting herself_].--My father, let me, before I go,
+bid adieu to my pet jasmine, the Moonlight of the Grove. I love the
+plant almost as a sister.
+
+KANWA.--Yes, yes, my child, I remember thy sisterly affection for the
+creeper. Here it is on the right.
+
+SAKOONTALA [_approaching the jasmine_],--My beloved jasmine, most
+brilliant of climbing plants, how sweet it is to see thee cling thus
+fondly to thy husband, the mango-tree; yet, prithee, turn thy twining
+arms for a moment in this direction to embrace thy sister; she is going
+far away, and may never see thee again.
+
+KANWA.--Daughter, the cherished purpose of my heart
+    Has ever been to wed thee to a spouse
+    That should be worthy of thee; such a spouse
+    Hast thou thyself, by thine own merits, won.
+    To him thou goest, and about his neck
+    Soon shalt thou cling confidingly, as now
+    Thy favorite jasmine twines its loving arms
+    Around the sturdy mango. Leave thou it
+    To its protector--e'en as I consign
+    Thee to thy lord, and henceforth from my mind
+    Banish all anxious thought on thy behalf.
+Proceed on thy journey, my child.
+
+SAKOONTALA [_to Priyamvada and Anasuya_].--To you, my sweet companions,
+I leave it as a keepsake. Take charge of it when I am gone.
+
+PRIYAMVADA AND ANASUYA [_bursting into tears_].--And to whose charge do
+you leave us, dearest? Who will care for us when you are gone?
+
+KANWA.--For shame, Anasuya! dry your tears. Is this the way to cheer
+your friend at a time when she needs your support and consolation?
+          [_All move on_.
+
+SAKOONTALA.--My father, see you there my pet deer, grazing close to the
+hermitage? She expects soon to fawn, and even now the weight of the
+little one she carries hinders her movements. Do not forget to send me
+word when she becomes a mother.
+
+KANWA.--I will not forget it.
+
+SAKOONTALA [_feeling herself drawn back_].--What can this be, fastened
+to my dress?          [_Turns round_.
+
+KANWA.--My daughter,
+    It is the little fawn, thy foster-child.
+    Poor helpless orphan! it remembers well
+    How with a mother's tenderness and love
+    Thou didst protect it, and with grains of rice
+    From thine own hand didst daily nourish it;
+    And, ever and anon, when some sharp thorn
+    Had pierced its mouth, how gently thou didst tend
+    The bleeding wound, and pour in healing balm.
+    The grateful nursling clings to its protectress,
+    Mutely imploring leave to follow her.
+
+SAKOONTALA.--My poor little fawn, dost thou ask to follow an unhappy
+woman who hesitates not to desert her companions? When thy mother died,
+soon after thy birth, I supplied her place, and reared thee with my own
+hand; and now that thy second mother is about to leave thee, who will
+care for thee? My father, be thou a mother to her. My child, go back,
+and be a daughter to my father.          [_Moves on, weeping_.
+
+KANWA.--Weep not, my daughter, check the gathering tear
+    That lurks beneath thine eyelid, ere it flow
+    And weaken thy resolve; be firm and true--
+    True to thyself and me; the path of life
+    Will lead o'er hill and plain, o'er rough and smooth,
+    And all must feel the steepness of the way;
+    Though rugged be thy course, press boldly on.
+
+SARNGARAVA.--Venerable sire! the sacred precept is--"Accompany thy
+friend as far as the margin of the first stream." Here then, we are
+arrived at the border of a lake. It is time for you to give us your
+final instructions and return.
+
+KANWA.--Be it so; let us tarry for a moment under the shade of this
+fig-tree.          [_They do so_.
+
+KANWA [_aside_].--I must think of some appropriate message to send to
+his majesty King Dushyanta.          [_Reflects._
+
+SAKOONTALA [_aside to Anasuya_].--See, see, dear Anasuya, the poor
+female Chakravaka-bird, whom cruel fate dooms to nightly separation
+from her mate, calls to him in mournful notes from the other side of the
+stream, though he is only hidden from her view by the spreading leaves
+of the water-lily. Her cry is so piteous that I could almost fancy she
+was lamenting her hard lot in intelligible words.
+
+ANASUYA.--Say not so, dearest.
+    Fond bird! though sorrow lengthen out her night
+    Of widowhood, yet with a cry of joy
+    She hails the morning light that brings her mate
+    Back to her side. The agony of parting
+    Would wound us like a sword, but that its edge
+    Is blunted by the hope of future meeting.
+
+KANWA.--Sarngarava, when you have introduced Sakoontala into the
+presence of the King, you must give him this message from me.
+
+SARNGARAVA.--Let me hear it, venerable father.
+
+KANWA.--This is it--
+    Most puissant prince! we here present before thee
+    One thou art bound to cherish and receive
+    As thine own wife; yea, even to enthrone
+    As thine own queen--worthy of equal love
+    With thine imperial consorts. So much, Sire,
+    We claim of thee as justice due to us,
+    In virtue of our holy character--
+    In virtue of thine honorable rank--
+    In virtue of the pure spontaneous love
+    That secretly grew up 'twixt thee and her,
+    Without consent or privity of us.
+    We ask no more--the rest we freely leave
+    To thy just feeling and to destiny.
+
+SARNGARAVA.--A most suitable message. I will take care to deliver it
+correctly.
+
+KANWA.--And now, my child, a few words of advice for thee. We hermits,
+though we live secluded from the world, are not ignorant of worldly
+matters.
+
+SARNGARAVA.--No, indeed. Wise men are conversant with all subjects.
+
+KANWA.--Listen, then, my daughter. When thou reachest thy husband's
+palace, and art admitted into his family,
+    Honor thy betters; ever be respectful
+    To those above thee; and, should others share
+    Thy husband's love, ne'er yield thyself a prey
+    To jealousy; but ever be a friend,
+    A loving friend, to those who rival thee
+    In his affections. Should thy wedded lord
+    Treat thee with harshness, thou must never be
+    Harsh in return, but patient and submissive.
+    Be to thy menials courteous, and to all
+    Placed under thee, considerate and kind:
+    Be never self-indulgent, but avoid
+    Excess in pleasure; and, when fortune smiles,
+    Be not puffed up. Thus to thy husband's house
+    Wilt thou a blessing prove, and not a curse.
+What thinks Gautami of this advice?
+
+GAUTAMI.--An excellent compendium, truly, of every wife's duties! Lay it
+well to heart, my daughter.
+
+KANWA.--Come, my beloved child, one parting embrace for me and for thy
+companions, and then we leave thee.
+
+SAKOONTALA.--My father, must Priyamvada and Anasuya really return with
+you? They are very dear to me.
+
+KANWA.--Yes, my child; they, too, in good time, will be given in
+marriage to suitable husbands. It would not be proper for them to
+accompany thee to such a public place. But Gautami shall be thy
+companion.
+
+SAKOONTALA [_embracing him_].--Removed from thy bosom, my beloved
+father, like a young tendril of the sandal-tree torn from its home in
+the western mountains,[40] how shall I be able to support life in a
+foreign soil?
+
+KANWA.--Daughter, thy fears are groundless:--
+    Soon shall thy lord prefer thee to the rank
+    Of his own consort; and unnumbered cares
+    Befitting his imperial dignity
+    Shall constantly engross thee. Then the bliss
+    Of bearing him a son--a noble boy,
+    Bright as the day-star--shall transport thy soul
+    With new delights, and little shalt thou reck
+    Of the light sorrow that afflicts thee now
+    At parting from thy father and thy friends.
+
+          [_Sakoontala throws herself at her foster-father's feet_.
+
+KANWA.--Blessings on thee, my child! May all my hopes of thee be
+realized!
+
+SAKOONTALA [_approaching her friends_].--Come, my two loved companions,
+embrace me--both of you together.
+
+PRIYAMVADA AND ANASUYA [_embracing her_].--Dear Sakoontala, remember, if
+the King should by any chance be slow in recognizing you, you have only
+to show him this ring, on which his own name is engraved.
+
+SAKOONTALA.--The bare thought of it puts me in a tremor.
+
+PRIYAMVADA AND ANASUYA.--There is no real cause for fear, dearest.
+Excessive affection is too apt to suspect evil where none exists.
+
+SARNGARAVA.--Come, lady, we must hasten on. The sun is rising in the
+heavens.
+
+SAKOONTALA [_looking towards the hermitage_].--Dear father, when shall I
+ever see this hallowed grove again?
+
+KANWA.--I will tell thee; listen--
+    When thou hast passed a long and blissful life
+    As King Dushyanta's queen, and jointly shared
+    With all the earth his ever-watchful care;
+    And hast beheld thine own heroic son,
+    Matchless in arms, united to a spouse
+    In happy wedlock; when his aged sire,
+    Thy faithful husband, hath to him resigned
+    The helm of state; then, weary of the world,
+    Together with Dushyanta thou shalt seek
+    The calm seclusion of thy former home:--
+    There amid holy scenes to be at peace,
+    Till thy pure spirit gain its last release.
+
+GAUTAMI.--Come, my child, the favorable time for our journey is fast
+passing. Let thy father return. Venerable Sire, be thou the first to
+move homewards, or these last words will never end.
+
+KANWA.--Daughter, detain me no longer. My religious duties must not be
+interrupted.
+
+SAKOONTALA [_again embracing her foster-father_].--Beloved father, thy
+frame is much enfeebled by penitential exercises. Do not, oh! do not,
+allow thyself to sorrow too much on my account.
+
+KANWA [_sighing_].--How, O my child, shall my bereaved heart
+    Forget its bitterness, when, day by day,
+    Full in my sight shall grow the tender plants
+    Reared by thy care, or sprung from hallowed grain
+    Which thy loved hands have strewn around the door--
+    A frequent offering to our household gods?
+Go, my daughter, and may thy journey be prosperous.
+
+          [_Exit Sakoontala with her escort_.
+
+PRIYAMVADA AND ANASUYA [_gazing after Sakoontala_].--Alas! alas! she is
+gone, and now the trees hide our darling from our view.
+
+KANWA [_sighing_].--Well, Anasuya, your sister has departed. Moderate
+your grief, both of you, and follow me. I go back to the hermitage.
+
+PRIYAMVADA AND ANASUYA.--Holy father, the sacred grove will be a desert
+without Sakoontala. How can we ever return to it?
+
+KANWA.--It is natural enough that your affection should make you view it
+in this light. [_Walking pensively on_.] As for me, I am quite surprised
+at myself. Now that I have fairly dismissed her to her husband's house,
+my mind is easy: for indeed,
+    A daughter is a loan--a precious jewel
+    Lent to a parent till her husband claim her.
+    And now that to her rightful lord and master
+    I have delivered her, my burdened soul
+    Is lightened, and I seem to breathe more freely.
+
+          [_Exeunt._
+
+
+[40] The sandal-tree is a large kind of myrtle, with pointed leaves. The
+wood affords many highly esteemed perfumes and is celebrated for its
+delicious scent. It is chiefly found on the slopes of the Malay
+mountains or Western Ghants, on the Malabar coast.
+
+
+
+
+ACT FIFTH
+
+Scene.--A Room in the Palace
+
+
+_The King Dushyanta and the Jester Mathavya are discovered seated_.
+
+MATHAVYA [_listening_].--Hark! my dear friend, listen a minute, and you
+will hear sweet sounds proceeding from the music-room. Someone is
+singing a charming air. Who can it be? Oh! I know. The queen Hansapadika
+is practising her notes, that she may greet you with a new song.
+
+KING.--Hush! Let me listen.
+
+A VOICE [_sings behind the scenes_].--
+    How often hither didst thou rove,
+    Sweet bee, to kiss the mango's cheek;
+    Oh! leave not, then, thy early love,
+    The lily's honeyed lip to seek.
+
+KING.--A most impassioned strain, truly!
+
+MATHAVYA.--Do you understand the meaning of the words?
+
+KING [_smiling_].--She means to reprove me, because I once paid her
+great attention, and have lately deserted her for the queen Vasumati.
+Go, my dear fellow, and tell Hansapadika from me that I take her
+delicate reproof as it is intended.
+
+MATHAVYA.--Very well. [_Rising from his seat_.] But stay--I don't much
+relish being sent to bear the brunt of her jealousy. The chances are
+that she will have me seized by the hair of the head and beaten to a
+jelly. I would as soon expose myself, after a vow of celibacy, to the
+seductions of a lovely nymph, as encounter the fury of a jealous woman.
+
+KING.--Go, go; you can disarm her wrath by a civil speech; but give her
+my message.
+
+MATHAVYA.--What must be must be, I suppose.          [_Exit._
+
+KING [_aside_].--Strange! that song has filled me with a most peculiar
+sensation. A melancholy feeling has come over me, and I seem to yearn
+after some long-forgotten object of affection. Singular, indeed! but,
+    Not seldom in our happy hours of ease,
+    When thought is still, the sight of some fair form,
+    Or mournful fall of music breathing low,
+    Will stir strange fancies, thrilling all the soul
+    With a mysterious sadness, and a sense
+    Of vague yet earnest longing. Can it be
+    That the dim memory of events long past,
+    Or friendships formed in other states of being,
+    Flits like a passing shadow o'er the spirit?
+          [_Remains pensive and sad_.
+
+          _Enter the Chamberlain_.
+
+CHAMBERLAIN.--Alas! to what an advanced period of life have I attained!
+    Even this wand betrays the lapse of years;
+    In youthful days 'twas but a useless badge
+    And symbol of my office; now it serves
+    As a support to prop my tottering steps.
+
+Ah me! I feel very unwilling to announce to the King that a deputation
+of young hermits from the sage Kanwa has arrived, and craves an
+immediate audience. Certainly, his majesty ought not to neglect a matter
+of sacred duty, yet I hardly like to trouble him when he has just risen
+from the judgment-seat. Well, well; a monarch's business is to sustain
+the world, and he must not expect much repose; because--
+
+    Onward, forever onward, in his car
+    The unwearied Sun pursues his daily course,
+    Nor tarries to unyoke his glittering steeds.
+    And ever moving speeds the rushing Wind
+    Through boundless space, filling the universe
+    With his life-giving breezes. Day and night,
+    The King of Serpents on his thousand heads
+    Upholds the incumbent earth; and even so,
+    Unceasing toil is aye the lot of kings,
+    Who, in return, draw nurture from their subjects.
+
+I will therefore deliver my message. [_Walking on and looking about_.]
+Ah! here comes the King:--
+
+    His subjects are his children; through the day,
+    Like a fond father, to supply their wants,
+    Incessantly he labors; wearied now,
+    The monarch seeks seclusion and repose--
+    E'en as the prince of elephants defies
+    The sun's fierce heat, and leads the fainting herd
+    To verdant pastures, ere his wayworn limbs
+    He yields to rest beneath the cooling shade.
+
+[_Approaching_.] Victory to the King! So please your majesty, some
+hermits who live in a forest near the Snowy Mountains have arrived here,
+bringing certain women with them. They have a message to deliver from
+the sage Kanwa, and desire an audience. I await your Majesty's commands.
+
+KING [_respectfully_].--A message from the sage Kanwa, did you say?
+
+CHAMBERLAIN.--Even so, my liege.
+
+KING.--Tell my domestic priest, Somarata, to receive the hermits with
+due honor, according to the prescribed form. He may then himself
+introduce them into my presence. I will await them in a place suitable
+for the reception of such holy guests.
+
+CHAMBERLAIN.--Your Majesty's commands shall be obeyed. [_Exit._
+
+KING [_rising and addressing the Warder_].--Vetravati, lead the way to
+the chamber of the consecrated fire.
+
+WARDER.--This way, Sire.
+
+KING [_walking on, with the air of one oppressed by the cares of
+government_].--People are generally contented and happy when they have
+gained their desires; but kings have no sooner attained the object of
+their aspirations than all their troubles begin.
+    'Tis a fond thought that to attain the end
+    And object of ambition is to rest;
+    Success doth only mitigate the fever
+    Of anxious expectation; soon the fear
+    Of losing what we have, the constant care
+    Of guarding it doth weary. Ceaseless toil
+    Must be the lot of him who with his hands
+    Supports the canopy that shields his subjects.
+
+Two HERALDS [_behind the scenes_].--May the King be victorious!
+
+FIRST HERALD.--Honor to him who labors day by day
+    For the world's weal, forgetful of his own.
+    Like some tall tree that with its stately head
+    Endures the solar beam, while underneath
+    It yields refreshing shelter to the weary.
+
+SECOND HERALD.--Let but the monarch wield his threatening rod
+    And e'en the guilty tremble; at his voice
+    The rebel spirit cowers; his grateful subjects
+    Acknowledge him their guardian; rich and poor
+    Hail him a faithful friend, a loving kinsman.
+
+KING.--Weary as I was before, this complimentary address has refreshed
+me.          [_Walks on_.
+
+WARDER.--Here is the terrace of the hallowed fire-chamber, and yonder
+stands the cow that yields the milk for the oblations. The sacred
+enclosure has been recently purified, and looks clean and beautiful.
+Ascend, Sire.
+
+KING [_leans on the shoulders of his attendants, and ascends_].
+Vetravati, what can possibly be the message that the venerable Kanwa has
+sent me by these hermits?--
+    Perchance their sacred rites have been disturbed
+    By demons, or some evil has befallen
+    The innocent herds, their favorites, that graze
+    Within the precincts of the hermitage;
+    Or haply, through my sins, some withering blight
+    Has nipped the creeping plants that spread their arms
+    Around the hallowed grove. Such troubled thoughts
+    Crowd through my mind, and fill me with misgiving.
+
+WARDER.--If you ask my opinion, Sire, I think the hermits merely wish to
+take an opportunity of testifying their loyalty, and are therefore come
+to offer homage to your Majesty.
+
+_Enter the Hermits, leading Sakoontala, attended by Gautami; and, in
+advance of them, the Chamberlain and the domestic Priest._
+
+CHAMBERLAIN.--This way, reverend sirs, this way.
+
+SARNGARAVA.--O Saradwata,
+    'Tis true the monarch lacks no royal grace,
+    Nor ever swerves from justice; true, his people,
+    Yea such as in life's humblest walks are found,
+    Refrain from evil courses; still to me,
+    A lonely hermit reared in solitude,
+    This throng appears bewildering, and methinks
+    I look upon a burning house, whose inmates
+    Are running to and fro in wild dismay.
+
+SARADWATA.--It is natural that the first sight of the King's capital
+should affect you in this manner; my own sensations are very similar.
+    As one just bathed beholds the man polluted;
+    As one late purified, the yet impure:--
+    As one awake looks on the yet unwakened;
+    Or as the freeman gazes on the thrall,
+    So I regard this crowd of pleasure-seekers.
+
+SAKOONTALA [_feeling a quivering sensation in her right eyelid, and
+suspecting a bad omen_],--Alas! what means this throbbing of my right
+eyelid?
+
+GAUTAMI.--Heaven avert the evil omen, my child! May the guardian deities
+of thy husband's family convert it into a sign of good fortune! [_Walks
+on_.
+
+PRIEST [_pointing to the King_].--Most reverend sirs, there stands the
+protector of the four classes of the people; the guardian of the four
+orders of the priesthood. He has just left the judgment-seat, and is
+waiting for you. Behold him!
+
+SARNGARAVA.--Great Brahman, we are happy in thinking that the King's
+power is exerted for the protection of all classes of his subjects. We
+have not come as petitioners--we have the fullest confidence in the
+generosity of his nature.
+    The loftiest trees bend humbly to the ground
+    Beneath the teeming burden of their fruit;
+    High in the vernal sky the pregnant clouds
+    Suspend their stately course, and hanging low,
+    Scatter their sparkling treasures o'er the earth:--
+    And such is true benevolence; the good
+    Are never rendered arrogant by riches.
+
+WARDER.--So please your Majesty, I judge from the placid countenance of
+the hermits that they have no alarming message to deliver.
+
+KING [_looking at Sakoontala_].--But the lady there--
+    Who can she be, whose form of matchless grace
+    Is half concealed beneath her flowing veil?
+    Among the sombre hermits she appears
+    Like a fresh bud 'mid sear and yellow leaves.
+
+WARDER.--So please your Majesty, my curiosity is also roused, but no
+conjecture occurs to my mind. This at least is certain, that she
+deserves to be looked at more closely.
+
+KING.--True; but it is not right to gaze at another man's wife.
+
+SAKOONTALA [_placing her hand on her bosom. Aside_].--O my heart, why
+this throbbing? Remember thy lord's affection, and take courage.
+
+PRIEST [_advancing_].--These holy men have been received with all due
+honor. One of them has now a message to deliver from his spiritual
+superior. Will your Majesty deign to hear it?
+
+KING.--I am all attention.
+
+HERMITS [_extending their hands_].--Victory to the King!
+
+KING.--Accept my respectful greeting.
+
+HERMITS.--May the desires of your soul be accomplished!
+
+KING.--I trust no one is molesting you in the prosecution of your
+religious rites.
+
+HERMITS.--Who dares disturb our penitential rites
+    When thou art our protector? Can the night
+    Prevail to cast her shadows o'er the earth
+    While the sun's beams irradiate the sky?
+
+KING.--Such, indeed, is the very meaning of my title--"Defender of the
+Just." I trust the venerable Kanwa is in good health. The world is
+interested in his well-being.
+
+HERMITS.--Holy men have health and prosperity in their own power. He
+bade us greet your Majesty, and, after kind inquiries, deliver this
+message.
+
+KING.--Let me hear his commands.
+
+SARNGARAVA.--He bade us say that he feels happy in giving his sanction
+to the marriage which your Majesty contracted with this lady, his
+daughter, privately and by mutual agreement. Because
+    By us thou art esteemed the most illustrious
+    Of noble husbands; and Sakoontala
+    Virtue herself in human form revealed.
+    Great Brahma hath in equal yoke united
+    A bride unto a husband worthy of her:--
+    Henceforth let none make blasphemous complaint
+    That he is pleased with ill-assorted unions.
+
+Since, therefore, she expects soon to be the mother of thy child,
+receive her into thy palace, that she may perform, in conjunction with
+thee, the ceremonies prescribed by religion on such an occasion.
+
+GAUTAMI.--So please your Majesty, I would add a few words: but why
+should I intrude my sentiments when an opportunity of speaking my mind
+has never been allowed me?
+    She took no counsel with her kindred; thou
+    Didst not confer with thine, but all alone
+    Didst solemnize thy nuptials with thy wife.
+    Together, then, hold converse; let us leave you.
+
+SAKOONTALA [_aside_].--Ah! how I tremble for my lord's reply.
+
+KING.--What strange proposal is this?
+
+SAKOONTALA [_aside_].--His words are fire to me.
+
+SARNGARAVA.--What do I hear? Dost thou, then, hesitate? Monarch, thou
+art well acquainted with the ways of the world, and knowest that
+    A wife, however virtuous and discreet,
+    If she live separate from her wedded lord,
+    Though under shelter of her parent's roof,
+    Is mark for vile suspicion. Let her dwell
+    Beside her husband, though he hold her not
+    In his affection. So her kinsmen will it.
+
+KING.--Do you really mean to assert that I ever married this lady?
+
+SAKOONTALA [_despondingly. Aside_].--O my heart, thy worst misgivings
+are confirmed.
+
+SARNGARAVA.--Is it becoming in a monarch to depart from the rules of
+justice, because he repents of his engagements?
+
+KING.--I cannot answer a question which is based on a mere fabrication.
+
+
+SARNGARAVA.--Such inconstancy is fortunately not common, excepting in
+men intoxicated by power.
+
+KING.--Is that remark aimed at me?
+
+GAUTAMI.--Be not ashamed, my daughter. Let me remove thy veil for a
+little space. Thy husband will then recognize thee. [_Removes her veil_.
+
+KING [_gazing at Sakoontala. Aside_].--What charms are here revealed
+before mine eyes!
+    Truly no blemish mars the symmetry
+    Of that fair form; yet can I ne'er believe
+    She is my wedded wife; and like a bee
+    That circles round the flower whose nectared cup
+    Teems with the dew of morning, I must pause
+    Ere eagerly I taste the proffered sweetness.
+          [_Remains wrapped in-thought._
+
+WARDER.--How admirably does our royal master's behavior prove his regard
+for justice! Who else would hesitate for a moment when good fortune
+offered for his acceptance a form of such rare beauty?
+
+SARNGARAVA.--Great King, why art thou silent?
+
+KING.--Holy men, I have revolved the matter in my mind; but the more I
+think of it, the less able am I to recollect that I ever contracted an
+alliance with this lady. What answer, then, can I possibly give you when
+I do not believe myself to be her husband, and I plainly see that she is
+soon to become a mother?
+
+SAKOONTALA [_aside_].--Woe! woe! Is our very marriage to be called in
+question by my own husband? Ah me! is this to be the end of all my
+bright visions of wedded happiness?
+
+SARNGARAVA.--Beware!
+    Beware how thou insult the holy Sage!
+    Remember how he generously allowed
+    Thy secret union with his foster-child;
+    And how, when thou didst rob him of his treasure,
+    He sought to furnish thee excuse, when rather
+    He should have cursed thee for a ravisher.
+
+SARADWATA.--Sarngarava, speak to him no more. Sakoontala, our part is
+performed; we have said all we had to say, and the King has replied in
+the manner thou hast heard. It is now thy turn to give him convincing
+evidence of thy marriage.
+
+SAKOONTALA [_aside_].--Since his feeling towards me has undergone a
+complete revolution, what will it avail to revive old recollections? One
+thing is clear--I shall soon have to mourn my own widowhood. [_Aloud_.]
+My revered husband--[_Stops short_.] But no--I dare not address thee by
+this title, since thou hast refused to acknowledge our union. Noble
+descendant of Puru! It is not worthy of thee to betray an
+innocent-minded girl, and disown her in such terms, after having so
+lately and so solemnly plighted thy vows to her in the hermitage.
+
+KING [_stopping his ears_].--I will hear no more. Be such a crime far
+from my thoughts!
+    What evil spirit can possess thee, lady,
+    That thou dost seek to sully my good name
+    By base aspersions? like a swollen torrent,
+    That, leaping from its narrow bed, overthrows
+    The tree upon its bank, and strives to blend
+    Its turbid waters with the crystal stream?
+
+SAKOONTALA.--If, then, thou really believest me to be the wife of
+another, and thy present conduct proceeds from some cloud that obscures
+thy recollection, I will easily convince thee by this token.
+
+KING.--An excellent idea!
+
+SAKOONTALA [_feeling for the ring_].--Alas! alas! woe is me! There is no
+ring on my finger!
+          [_Looks with anguish at Gautami_.
+
+GAUTAMI.--The ring must have slipped off when thou wast in the act of
+offering homage to the holy water of Sachi's sacred pool, near
+Sakravatara.
+
+KING [_smiling_].--People may well talk of the readiness of woman's
+invention! Here is an instance of it.
+
+SAKOONTALA.--Say, rather, of the omnipotence of fate. I will mention
+another circumstance, which may yet convince thee.
+
+KING.--By all means let me hear it at once.
+
+SAKOONTALA.--One day, while we were seated in a jasmine bower, thou
+didst pour into the hollow of thine hand some water, sprinkled by a
+recent shower in the cup of a lotus blossom--
+
+KING.--I am listening; proceed.
+
+SAKOONTALA.--At that instant, my adopted child, the little fawn, with
+soft, long eyes, came running towards us. Upon which, before tasting the
+water thyself, thou didst kindly offer some to the little creature,
+saying fondly--"Drink first, gentle fawn." But she could not be induced
+to drink from the hand of a stranger; though immediately afterwards,
+when I took the water in my own hand, she drank with perfect confidence.
+Then, with a smile, thou didst say--"Every creature confides naturally
+in its own kind. You are both inhabitants of the same forest, and have
+learnt to trust each other."
+
+KING.--Voluptuaries may allow themselves to be seduced from the path of
+duty by falsehoods such as these, expressed in honeyed words.
+
+GAUTAMI.--Speak not thus, illustrious Prince. This lady was brought up
+in a hermitage, and has never learnt deceit.
+
+KING.--Holy matron,
+    E'en in untutored brutes, the female sex
+    Is marked by inborn subtlety--much more
+    In beings gifted with intelligence.
+    The wily Koeil, ere towards the sky
+    She wings her sportive flight, commits her eggs
+    To other nests, and artfully consigns
+    The rearing of her little ones to strangers.
+
+SAKOONTALA [_angrily_].--Dishonorable man, thou judgest of others by
+thine own evil heart. Thou, at least, art unrivalled in perfidy, and
+standest alone--a base deceiver in the garb of virtue and religion--like
+a deep pit whose yawning mouth is concealed by smiling flowers.
+
+KING [_aside_].--Her anger, at any rate, appears genuine, and makes me
+almost doubt whether I am in the right. For, indeed,
+    When I had vainly searched my memory,
+    And so with stern severity denied
+    The fabled story of our secret loves,
+    Her brows, that met before in graceful curves,
+    Like the arched weapon of the god of love,
+    Seemed by her frown dissevered; while the fire
+    Of sudden anger kindled in her eyes.
+
+[_Aloud_.] My good lady, Dushyanta's character is well-known to all. I
+comprehend not your meaning.
+
+SAKOONTALA.--Well do I deserve to be thought a harlot for having, in the
+innocence of my heart, and out of the confidence I reposed in a Prince
+of Puru's race, intrusted my honor to a man whose mouth distils honey,
+while his heart is full of poison.
+          [_Covers her face with her mantle, and bursts into tears_.
+
+SARNGARAVA.--Thus is it that burning remorse must ever follow rash
+actions which might have been avoided, and for which one has only one's
+self to blame.
+    Not hastily should marriage be contracted,
+    And specially in secret. Many a time,
+    In hearts that know not each the other's fancies,
+    Fond love is changed into most bitter hate.
+
+KING.--How now! Do you give credence to this woman rather than to me,
+that you heap such accusations on me?
+
+SARNGARAVA [_sarcastically_].--That would be too absurd, certainly. You
+have heard the proverb--
+    Hold in contempt the innocent words of those
+    Who from their infancy have known no guile:--
+    But trust the treacherous counsels of the man
+    Who makes a very science of deceit.
+
+KING.--Most veracious Brahman, grant that you are in the right, what end
+would be gained by betraying this lady?
+
+SARNGARAVA.--Ruin.
+
+KING.--No one will believe that a Prince of Puru's race would seek to
+ruin others or himself.
+
+SARADWATA.--This altercation is idle, Sarngarava. We have executed the
+commission of our preceptor; come, let us return. [_To the King_.
+    Sakoontala is certainly thy bride;
+    Receive her or reject her, she is thine.
+    Do with her, King, according to thy pleasure--
+    The husband o'er the wife is absolute.
+Go on before us, Gautami.          [_They move away_.
+
+SAKOONTALA.--What! is it not enough to have been betrayed by this
+perfidious man? Must you also forsake me, regardless of my tears and
+lamentations?
+          [_Attempts to follow them_.
+
+GAUTAMI [_stopping_].--My son Sarngarava, see, Sakoontala is following
+us, and with tears implores us not to leave her. Alas! poor child, what
+will she do here with a cruel husband who casts her from him?
+
+SARNGARAVA [_turning angrily towards her_].--Wilful woman, dost thou
+seek to be independent of thy lord?
+          [_Sakoontala trembles with fear_.
+
+SARNGARAVA.--Sakoontala!
+    If thou art really what the King proclaims thee,
+    How can thy father e'er receive thee back
+    Into his house and home? but, if thy conscience
+    Be witness to thy purity of soul,
+    E'en should thy husband to a handmaid's lot
+    Condemn thee, thou may'st cheerfully endure it,
+    When ranked among the number of his household.
+
+Thy duty, therefore, is to stay. As for us, we must return immediately.
+
+KING.--Deceive not the lady, my good hermit, by any such expectations.
+    The moon expands the lotus of the night,
+    The rising sun awakes the lily; each
+    Is with his own contented. Even so
+    The virtuous man is master of his passions,
+    And from another's wife averts his gaze.
+
+SARNGARAVA.--Since thy union with another woman has rendered thee
+oblivious of thy marriage with Sakoontala, whence this fear of losing
+thy character for constancy and virtue?
+
+KING [_to the Priest_],--You must counsel me, revered sir, as to my
+course of action. Which of the two evils involves the greater or less
+sin?
+    Whether by some dark veil my mind be clouded,
+    Or this designing woman speak untruly,
+    I know not. Tell me, must I rather be
+    The base disowner of my wedded wife,
+    Or the defiling and defiled adulterer?
+
+PRIEST [_after deliberation_].--You must take an intermediate course.
+
+KING.--What course, revered sir? Tell me at once.
+
+PRIEST.--I will provide an asylum for the lady in my own house until the
+birth of her child; and my reason, if you ask me, is this. Soothsayers
+have predicted that your first-born will have universal dominion. Now,
+if the hermit's daughter bring forth a son with the discus or mark of
+empire in the lines of his hand, you must admit her immediately into
+your royal apartments with great rejoicings; if not, then determine to
+send her back as soon as possible to her father.
+
+KING.--I bow to the decision of my spiritual adviser.
+
+PRIEST.--Daughter, follow me.
+
+SAKOONTALA.--O divine earth, open and receive me into thy bosom!
+
+[_Exit Sakoontala weeping, with the Priest and the Hermits. The King
+remains absorbed in thinking of her, though the curse still clouds his
+recollection_.
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--A miracle! a miracle!
+
+KING [_listening_].--What has happened now?
+
+PRIEST [_entering with an air of astonishment_].--Great Prince, a
+stupendous prodigy has just occurred!
+
+KING.--What is it?
+
+PRIEST.--May it please your Majesty, so soon as Kanwa's pupils had
+departed,
+    Sakoontala, her eyes all bathed in tears,
+    With outstretched arms bewailed her cruel fate--
+
+KING.--Well, well, what happened then?
+
+PRIEST.--When suddenly a shining apparition, In female shape, descended
+from the skies, Near the nymphs' pool, and bore her up to heaven.
+
+          [_All remain motionless with astonishment_.
+
+KING.--My good priest, from the very first I declined having anything to
+do with this matter. It is now all over, and we can never, by our
+conjectures, unravel the mystery; let it rest; go, seek repose.
+
+PRIEST [_looking at the King_].--Be it so. Victory to the King! [_Exit._
+
+KING.--Vetravati, I am tired out; lead the way to the bed-chamber.
+
+WARDER.--This way, Sire. [_They move away_.
+
+KING.--Do what I will, I cannot call to mind
+    That I did e'er espouse the sage's daughter--
+    Therefore I have disowned her; yet 'tis strange
+    How painfully my agitated heart
+    Bears witness to the truth of her assertion,
+    And makes me credit her against my judgment.
+          [_Exeunt._
+
+
+
+
+PRELUDE TO ACT SIXTH
+
+Scene.--A Street
+
+
+_Enter the King's brother-in-law as Superintendent of the city police;
+and with him two Constables, dragging a poor fisherman, who has his
+hands tied behind his back_.
+
+BOTH THE CONSTABLES [_striking the prisoner_].--Take that for a rascally
+thief that you are; and now tell us, sirrah, where you found this
+ring--aye, the King's own signet-ring. See, here is the royal name
+engraved on the setting of the jewel.
+
+FISHERMAN [_with a gesture of alarm_].--Mercy! kind sirs, mercy! I did
+not steal it; indeed I did not.
+
+FIRST CONSTABLE.--Oh! then I suppose the King took you for some fine
+Brahman, and made you a present of it?
+
+FISHERMAN.--Only hear me. I am but a poor fisherman, living at
+Sakravatara------
+
+SECOND CONSTABLE.--Scoundrel, who ever asked you, pray, for a history of
+your birth and parentage?
+
+SUPERINTENDENT [_to one of the Constables_].--Suchaka, let the fellow
+tell his own story from the beginning. Don't interrupt him.
+
+BOTH CONSTABLES.--As you please, master. Go on, then, sirrah, and say
+what you've got to say.
+
+FISHERMAN.--You see in me a poor man, who supports his family by
+catching fish with nets, hooks, and the like.
+
+SUPERINTENDENT [_laughing_].--A most refined occupation, certainly!
+
+FISHERMAN.--Blame me not for it, master.
+    The father's occupation, though despised
+    By others, casts no shame upon the son,
+    And he should not forsake it. Is the priest
+    Who kills the animal for sacrifice
+    Therefore deemed cruel? Sure a lowborn man
+    May, though a fisherman, be tender-hearted.
+
+SUPERINTENDENT.--Well, well; go on with your story.
+
+FISHERMAN.--One day I was cutting open a large carp I had just hooked,
+when the sparkle of a jewel caught my eye, and what should I find in the
+fish's maw but that ring! Soon afterwards, when I was offering it for
+sale, I was seized by your honors. Now you know everything. Whether you
+kill me, or whether you let me go, this is the true account of how the
+ring came into my possession.
+
+SUPERINTENDENT [_to one of the Constables_].--Well, Januka, the rascal
+emits such a fishy odor that I have no doubt of his being a fisherman;
+but we must inquire a little more closely into this queer story about
+the finding of the ring. Come, we'll take him before the King's
+household.
+
+BOTH CONSTABLES.--Very good, master. Get on with you, you cutpurse.
+          [_All move on_.
+
+SUPERINTENDENT.--Now attend, Suchaka; keep you guard here at the gate;
+and hark ye, sirrahs, take good care your prisoner does not escape,
+while I go in and lay the whole story of the discovery of this ring
+before the King in person. I will soon return and let you know his
+commands.
+
+CONSTABLE.--Go in, master, by all means; and may you find favor in the
+King's sight!
+          [_Exit Superintendent_.
+
+FIRST CONSTABLE [_after an interval_].--I say, Januka, the
+Superintendent is a long time away.
+
+SECOND CONSTABLE.--Aye, aye; kings are not to be got at so easily. Folks
+must bide the proper opportunity.
+
+FIRST CONSTABLE.--Januka, my fingers itch to strike the first blow at
+this royal victim here. We must kill him with all the honors, you know.
+I long to begin binding the flowers round his head.
+          [_Pretends to strike a blow at the fisherman_.
+
+FISHERMAN.--Your honor surely will not put an innocent man to a cruel
+death.
+
+SECOND CONSTABLE [_looking_].--There's our Superintendent at last, I
+declare. See, he is coming towards us with a paper in his hand. We shall
+soon know the King's command; so prepare, my fine fellow, either to
+become food for the vultures, or to make acquaintance with some hungry
+cur.
+
+SUPERINTENDENT [_entering_].--Ho, there, Suchaka! set the fisherman at
+liberty, I tell you. His story about the ring is all correct.
+
+SUCHAKA.--Oh! very good, sir; as you please.
+
+SECOND CONSTABLE.--The fellow had one foot in hell, and now here he is
+in the land of the living.          [_Releases him_.
+
+FISHERMAN [_bowing to the Superintendent_].--Now, master, what think you
+of my way of getting a livelihood?
+
+SUPERINTENDENT.--Here, my good man, the King desired me to present you
+with this purse. It contains a sum of money equal to the full value of
+the ring.
+          [_Gives him the money_.
+
+FISHERMAN [_taking it and bowing_].--His Majesty does me too great
+honor.
+
+SUCHAKA.--You may well say so. He might as well have taken you from the
+gallows to seat you on his state elephant.
+
+JANUKA.--Master, the King must value the ring very highly, or he would
+never have sent such a sum of money to this ragamuffin.
+
+SUPERINTENDENT.--I don't think he prizes it as a costly jewel so much as
+a memorial of some person he tenderly loves. The moment it was shown to
+him he became much agitated, though in general he conceals his feelings.
+
+SUCHAKA.--Then you must have done a great service------
+
+JANUKA.--Yes, to this husband of a fish-wife.
+          [_Looks enviously at the fisherman_.
+
+FISHERMAN.--Here's half the money for you, my masters. It will serve to
+purchase the flowers you spoke of, if not to buy me your good-will.
+
+JANUKA.--Well, now, that's just as it should be.
+
+SUPERINTENDENT.--My good fisherman, you are an excellent fellow, and I
+begin to feel quite a regard for you. Let us seal our first friendship
+over a glass of good liquor. Come along to the next wine-shop and we'll
+drink your health.
+
+ALL.--By all means.
+          [_Exeunt._
+
+
+
+
+ACT SIXTH
+
+Scene.--The Garden of the Palace
+
+
+_The nymph Sanumati is seen descending in a celestial car_.
+
+SANUMATI.--Behold me just arrived from attending in my proper turn at
+the nymphs' pool, where I have left the other nymphs to perform their
+ablutions, whilst I seek to ascertain, with my own eyes, how it fares
+with King Dushyanta. My connection with the nymph Menaka has made her
+daughter Sakoontala dearer to me than my own flesh and blood; and Menaka
+it was who charged me with this errand on her daughter's behalf.
+[_Looking round in all directions_.] How is it that I see no
+preparations in the King's household for celebrating the great vernal
+festival? I could easily discover the reason by my divine faculty of
+meditation; but respect must be shown to the wishes of my friend. How
+then shall I arrive at the truth? I know what I will do. I will become
+invisible, and place myself near those two maidens who are tending the
+plants in the garden.          [_Descends and takes her station_.
+
+_Enter a Maiden, who stops in front of a mango-tree and gazes at the
+blossom. Another Maiden is seen behind her_.
+
+FIRST MAIDEN.--Hail to thee, lovely harbinger of spring! The varied
+radiance of thy opening flowers Is welcome to my sight. I bid thee hail,
+Sweet mango, soul of this enchanting season.
+
+SECOND MAIDEN.--Parabaitika, what are you saying there to yourself?
+
+FIRST MAIDEN.--Dear Madhukarika, am I not named after the Koeil?[41] and
+does not the Koeil sing for joy at the first appearance of the
+mango-blossom?
+
+SECOND MAIDEN [_approaching hastily, with transport_].--What! is spring
+really come?
+
+FIRST MAIDEN.--Yes, indeed, Madhukarika, and with it the season of joy,
+love, and song.
+
+SECOND MAIDEN.--Let me lean upon you, dear, while I stand on tip-toe and
+pluck a blossom of the mango, that I may present it as an offering to
+the god of love.
+
+FIRST MAIDEN.--Provided you let me have half the reward which the god
+will bestow in return.
+
+SECOND MAIDEN.--To be sure you shall, and that without asking. Are we
+not one in heart and soul, though divided in body? [_Leans on her friend
+and plucks a mango-blossom._] Ah! here is a bud just bursting into
+flower. It diffuses a delicious perfume, though not yet quite expanded.
+          [_Joining her hands reverentially_.
+
+    God of the bow, who with spring's choicest flowers
+    Dost point thy five unerring shafts; to thee
+    I dedicate this blossom; let it serve
+    To barb thy truest arrow; be its mark
+    Some youthful heart that pines to be beloved.
+
+          [_Throws down a mango-blossom._
+
+CHAMBERLAIN [_entering in a hurried manner, angrily_].--Hold there,
+thoughtless woman. What are you about breaking off those mango-blossoms,
+when the King has forbidden the celebration of the spring festival?
+
+BOTH MAIDENS [_alarmed_].--Pardon us, kind sir, we have heard nothing of
+it.
+
+CHAMBERLAIN.--You have heard nothing of it? Why, all the vernal plants
+and shrubs, and the very birds that lodge in their branches, show more
+respect to the King's order than you do.
+    Yon mango-blossoms, though long since expanded,
+    Gather no down upon their tender crests;
+    The flower still lingers in the amaranth,
+    Imprisoned in its bud; the tuneful Koeil,
+    Though winter's chilly dews be overpast,
+    Suspends the liquid volume of his song
+    Scarce uttered in his throat; e'en Love, dismayed,
+    Restores the half-drawn arrow to his quiver.
+
+BOTH MAIDENS.--The mighty power of King Dushyanta is not to be disputed.
+
+FIRST MAIDEN.--It is but a few days since Mitravasu, the king's
+brother-in-law, sent us to wait upon his Majesty; and, during the whole
+of our sojourn here, we have been intrusted with the charge of the royal
+pleasure-grounds. We are therefore strangers in this place, and heard
+nothing of the order until you informed us of it.
+
+CHAMBERLAIN.--Well then, now you know it, take care you don't continue
+your preparations.
+
+BOTH MAIDENS.--But tell us, kind sir, why has the King prohibited the
+usual festivities? We are curious to hear, if we may.
+
+SANUMATI [_aside_].--Men are naturally fond of festive entertainments.
+There must be some good reason for the prohibition.
+
+CHAMBERLAIN.--The whole affair is now public; why should I not speak of
+it! Has not the gossip about the King's rejection of Sakoontala reached
+your ears yet?
+
+BOTH MAIDENS.--Oh yes, we heard the story from the King's
+brother-in-law, as far, at least, as the discovery of the ring.
+
+CHAMBERLAIN.--Then there is little more to tell you. As soon as the
+King's memory was restored by the sight of his own ring, he exclaimed,
+"Yes, it is all true. I remember now my secret marriage with Sakoontala.
+When I repudiated her, I had lost my recollection." Ever since that
+moment, he has yielded himself a prey to the bitterest remorse.
+    He loathes his former pleasures; he rejects
+    The daily homage of his ministers.
+    On his lone couch he tosses to and fro,
+    Courting repose in vain. Whene'er he meets
+    The ladies of his palace, and would fain
+    Address them with politeness, he confounds
+    Their names; or, calling them "Sakoontala,"
+    Is straightway silent and abashed with shame.
+
+SANUMATI [_aside_].--To me this account is delightful.
+
+CHAMBERLAIN.--In short, the King is so completely out of his mind that
+the festival has been prohibited.
+
+BOTH MAIDENS.--Perfectly right.
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--The King! the King! This way, Sire, this
+way.
+
+CHAMBERLAIN [_listening_].--Oh! here comes his majesty in this
+direction. Pass on, maidens; attend to your duties.
+
+BOTH MAIDENS.--We will, sir. [_Exeunt._
+
+_Enter King Dushyanta, dressed in deep mourning, attended by his Jester,
+Mathavya, and preceded by Vetravati._
+
+CHAMBERLAIN [_gazing at the King_].--Well, noble forms are certainly
+pleasing, under all varieties of outward circumstances. The King's
+person is as charming as ever, notwithstanding his sorrow of mind.
+    Though but a single golden bracelet spans
+    His wasted arm; though costly ornaments
+    Have given place to penitential weeds;
+    Though oft-repeated sighs have blanched his lips,
+    And robbed them of their bloom; though sleepless care
+    And carking thought have dimmed his beaming eye;
+    Yet does his form, by its inherent lustre,
+    Dazzle the gaze; and, like a priceless gem
+    Committed to some cunning polisher,
+    Grow more effulgent by the loss of substance.
+
+SANUMATI [_aside. Looking at the King_].--Now that I have seen him, I
+can well understand why Sakoontala should pine after such a man, in
+spite of his disdainful rejection of her.
+
+KING [_walking slowly up and down, in deep thought_].--
+    When fatal lethargy overwhelmed my soul,
+    My loved one strove to rouse me, but in vain:--
+    And now when I would fain in slumber deep
+    Forget myself, full soon remorse doth wake me.
+
+SANUMATI [_aside_].--My poor Sakoontala's sufferings are very similar.
+
+MATHAVYA [_aside_].--He is taken with another attack of this odious
+Sakoontala fever. How shall we ever cure him?
+
+CHAMBERLAIN [_approaching_].--Victory to the King! Great Prince, the
+royal pleasure-grounds have been put in order. Your Majesty can resort
+to them for exercise and amusement whenever you think proper.
+
+KING.--Vetravati, tell the worthy Pisuna, my prime minister, from me,
+that I am so exhausted by want of sleep that I cannot sit on the
+judgment-seat to-day. If any case of importance be brought before the
+tribunal he must give it his best attention, and inform me of the
+circumstances by letter.
+
+VETRAVATI.--Your Majesty's commands shall be obeyed. [_Exit._
+
+KING [_to the Chamberlain_].--And you, Vatayana, may go about your own
+affairs.
+
+CHAMBERLAIN.--I will, Sire. [_Exit._
+
+MATHAVYA.--Now that you have rid yourself of these troublesome fellows,
+you can enjoy the delightful coolness of your pleasure-grounds without
+interruption.
+
+KING.--Ah! my dear friend, there is an old adage--"When affliction has a
+mind to enter, she will find a crevice somewhere"--and it is verified in
+me.
+    Scarce is my soul delivered from the cloud
+    That darkened its remembrance of the past,
+    When lo! the heart-born deity of love
+    With yonder blossom of the mango barbs
+    His keenest shaft, and aims it at my breast.
+
+MATHAVYA.--Well, then, wait a moment; I will soon demolish Master Kama's
+arrow with a cut of my cane.
+
+          [_Raises his stick and strikes off the mango-blossom._
+
+KING [_smiling_].--That will do. I see very well the god of Love is not
+a match for a Brahman. And now, my dear friend, where shall I sit down,
+that I may enchant my sight by gazing on the twining plants, which seem
+to remind me of the graceful shape of my beloved?
+
+MATHAVYA.--Do you not remember? you told Chaturika you should pass the
+heat of the day in the jasmine bower; and commanded her to bring the
+likeness of your queen Sakoontala, sketched with your own hand.
+
+KING.--True. The sight of her picture will refresh my soul. Lead the way
+to the arbor.
+
+MATHAVYA.--This way, Sire.
+
+          [_Both move on, followed by Sanumati._
+
+MATHAVYA.--Here we are at the jasmine bower. Look, it has a marble seat,
+and seems to bid us welcome with its offerings of delicious flowers. You
+have only to enter and sit down. [_Both enter and seat themselves._
+
+SANUMATI [_aside_].--I will lean against these young jasmines. I can
+easily, from behind them, glance at my friend's picture, and will then
+hasten to inform her of her husband's ardent affection. [_Stands leaning
+against the creepers_.
+
+KING.--Oh! my dear friend, how vividly all the circumstances of my union
+with Sakoontala present themselves to my recollection at this moment!
+But tell me now how it was that, between the time of my leaving her in
+the hermitage and my subsequent rejection of her, you never breathed her
+name to me! True, you were not by my side when I disowned her; but I had
+confided to you the story of my love and you were acquainted with every
+particular. Did it pass out of your mind as it did out of mine?
+
+MATHAVYA.--No, no; trust me for that. But, if you remember, when you had
+finished telling me about it, you added that I was not to take the story
+in earnest, for that you were not really in love with a country girl,
+but were only jesting; and I was dull and thick-headed enough to believe
+you. But so fate decreed, and there is no help for it.
+
+SANUMATI [_aside_].--Exactly.
+
+KING [_after deep thought_].--My dear friend, suggest some relief for my
+misery.
+
+MATHAVYA.--Come, come, cheer up; why do you give way? Such weakness is
+unworthy of you. Great men never surrender themselves to uncontrolled
+grief. Do not mountains remain unshaken even in a gale of wind?
+
+KING.--How can I be otherwise than inconsolable, when I call to mind the
+agonized demeanor of the dear one on the occasion of my disowning her?
+    When cruelly I spurned her from my presence,
+    She fain had left me; but the young recluse,
+    Stern as the Sage, and with authority
+    As from his saintly master, in a voice
+    That brooked not contradiction, bade her stay.
+    Then through her pleading eyes, bedimmed with tears,
+    She cast on me one long reproachful look,
+    Which like a poisoned shaft torments me still.
+
+SANUMATI [_aside_].--Alas! such is the force of self-reproach following
+a rash action. But his anguish only rejoices me.
+
+MATHAVYA.--An idea has just struck me. I should not wonder if some
+celestial being had carried her off to heaven.
+
+KING.--Very likely. Who else would have dared to lay a
+finger on a wife, the idol of her husband? It is said that Menaka, the
+nymph of heaven, gave her birth. The suspicion has certainly crossed my
+mind that some of her celestial companions may have taken her to their
+own abode.
+
+SANUMATI [_aside_].--His present recollection of every circumstance of
+her history does not surprise me so much as his former forgetfulness.
+
+MATHAVYA.--If that's the case, you will be certain to meet her before
+long.
+
+KING.--Why?
+
+MATHAVYA.--No father and mother can endure to see a daughter suffering
+the pain of separation from her husband.
+
+KING.--Oh! my dear Mathavya,
+    Was it a dream? or did some magic dire,
+    Dulling my senses with a strange delusion,
+    Overcome my spirit? or did destiny,
+    Jealous of my good actions, mar their fruit,
+    And rob me of their guerdon? It is past,
+    Whatever the spell that bound me. Once again
+    Am I awake, but only to behold
+    The precipice o'er which my hopes have fallen.
+
+MATHAVYA.--Do not despair in this manner. Is not this very ring a proof
+that what has been lost may be unexpectedly found?
+
+KING [_gazing at the ring_].--Ah! this ring, too, has fallen from a
+station which it will not easily regain, and deserves all my sympathy.
+    O gem, deserved the punishment we suffer,
+    And equal is the merit of our works,
+    When such our common doom. Thou didst enjoy
+    The thrilling contact of those slender fingers,
+    Bright as the dawn; and now how changed thy lot!
+
+SANUMATI [_aside_].--Had it found its way to the hand of any other
+person, then indeed its fate would have been deplorable.
+
+MATHAVYA.--Pray, how did the ring ever come upon her hand at all?
+
+SANUMATI.--I myself am curious to know.
+
+KING.--You shall hear. When I was leaving my beloved Sakoontala that I
+might return to my own capital, she said to me, with tears in her eyes,
+"How long will it be ere my lord send for me to his palace and make me
+his queen?"
+
+MATHAVYA.--Well, what was your reply?
+
+KING.--Then I placed the ring on her finger, and thus addressed her--
+    Repeat each day one letter of the name
+    Engraven on this gem; ere thou hast reckoned
+    The tale of syllables, my minister
+    Shall come to lead thee to thy husband's palace.
+But, hard-hearted man that I was, I forgot to fulfil my promise, owing
+to the infatuation that took possession of me.
+
+SANUMATI [_aside_].--A pleasant arrangement! Fate, however, ordained
+that the appointment should not be kept.
+
+MATHAVYA.--But how did the ring contrive to pass into the stomach of
+that carp which the fisherman caught and was cutting up?
+
+KING.--It must have slipped from my Sakoontala's hand, and fallen into
+the stream of the Ganges, while she was offering homage to the water of
+Sachi's holy pool.
+
+MATHAVYA.--Very likely.
+
+SANUMATI [_aside_].--Hence it happened, I suppose, that the King, always
+fearful of committing the least injustice, came to doubt his marriage
+with my poor Sakoontala. But why should affection so strong as his stand
+in need of any token of recognition?
+
+KING.--Let me now address a few words of reproof to this ring.
+
+MATHAVYA [_aside_].--He is going stark mad, I verily believe.
+
+KING.--Hear me, thou dull and undiscerning bauble!
+    For so it argues thee, that thou couldst leave
+    The slender fingers of her hand, to sink
+    Beneath the waters. Yet what marvel is it
+    That thou shouldst lack discernment? let me rather
+    Heap curses on myself, who, though endowed
+    With reason, yet rejected her I loved.
+
+MATHAVYA [_aside_].--And so, I suppose, I must stand here to be devoured
+by hunger, whilst he goes on in this sentimental strain.
+
+KING.--O forsaken one, unjustly banished from my presence, take pity on
+thy slave, whose heart is consumed by the fire of remorse, and return to
+my sight.
+
+_Enter Chaturika hurriedly, with a picture in her hand_.
+
+CHATURIKA.--Here is the Queen's portrait. [_Shows the picture_.
+
+MATHAVYA.--Excellent, my dear friend, excellent! The imitation of nature
+is perfect, and the attitude of the figures is really charming. They
+stand out in such bold relief that the eye is quite deceived.
+
+SANUMATI [_aside_].--A most artistic performance! I admire the King's
+skill, and could almost believe that Sakoontala herself was before me.
+
+KING.--I own 'tis not amiss, though it portrays
+    But feebly her angelic loveliness.
+    Aught less than perfect is depicted falsely,
+    And fancy must supply the imperfection.
+
+SANUMATI [_aside_].--A very just remark from a modest man, whose
+affection is exaggerated by the keenness of his remorse.
+
+MATHAVYA.--Tell me--I see three female figures drawn on the canvas, and
+all of them beautiful; which of the three is her Majesty, Sakoontala?
+
+SANUMATI [_aside_].--If he cannot distinguish her from the others, the
+simpleton might as well have no eyes in his head.
+
+KING.--Which should you imagine to be intended for her?
+
+MATHAVYA.--She who is leaning, apparently a little tired, against the
+stem of that mango-tree, the tender leaves of which glitter with the
+water she has poured upon them. Her arms are gracefully extended; her
+face is somewhat flushed with the heat; and a few flowers have escaped
+from her hair, which has become unfastened, and hangs in loose tresses
+about her neck. That must be the queen Sakoontala, and the others, I
+presume, are her two attendants.
+
+KING.--I congratulate you on your discernment. Behold the proof of my
+passion;
+    My finger, burning with the glow of love,
+    Has left its impress on the painted tablet;
+    While here and there, alas! a scalding tear
+    Has fallen on the cheek and dimmed its brightness.
+    Chaturika, the garden in the background of the picture is
+    only half-painted. Go, fetch the brush that I may finish it.
+
+CHATURIKA.--Worthy Mathavya, have the kindness to hold the picture until
+I return.
+
+KING.--Nay, I will hold it myself.
+          [_Takes the picture. Exit Chaturika_.
+
+KING.--My loved one came but lately to my presence
+    And offered me herself, but in my folly
+    I spurned the gift, and now I fondly cling
+    To her mere image; even as a madman
+    Would pass the waters of the gushing stream,
+    And thirst for airy vapors of the desert.
+
+MATHAVYA [_aside_].--He has been fool enough to forego the reality for
+the semblance, the substance for the shadow. [_Aloud._] Tell us, I pray,
+what else remains to be painted.
+
+SANUMATI [_aside_].--He longs, no doubt, to delineate some favorite spot
+where my dear Sakoontala delighted to ramble.
+
+KING.--You shall hear------
+    I wish to see the Malini portrayed,
+    Its tranquil course by banks of sand impeded--
+    Upon the brink a pair of swans: beyond,
+    The hills adjacent to Himalaya,
+    Studded with deer; and, near the spreading shade
+    Of some large tree, where 'mid the branches hang
+    The hermits' vests of bark, a tender doe,
+    Rubbing its downy forehead on the horn
+    Of a black antelope, should be depicted.
+
+MATHAVYA [_aside_].--Pooh! if I were he, I would fill up the vacant
+spaces with a lot of grizzly-bearded old hermits.
+
+KING.--My dear Mathavya, there is still a part of Sakoontala's dress
+which I purposed to draw, but find I have omitted.
+
+MATHAVYA.--What is that?
+
+SANUMATI [_aside_].--Something suitable, I suppose, to the simple attire
+of a young and beautiful girl dwelling in a forest.
+
+KING.--A sweet Sirisha blossom should be twined
+    Behind her ear, its perfumed crest depending
+    Towards her cheek; and, resting on her bosom,
+    A lotus-fibre necklace, soft and bright
+    As an autumnal moon-beam, should be traced.
+
+MATHAVYA.--Pray, why does the Queen cover her lips with the tips of her
+fingers, bright as the blossom of a lily, as if she were afraid of
+something? [_Looking more closely_.] Oh! I see; a vagabond bee, intent
+on thieving the honey of flowers, has mistaken her mouth for a rose-bud,
+and is trying to settle upon it.
+
+KING.--A bee! drive off the impudent insect, will you?
+
+MATHAVYA.--That's your business. Your royal prerogative gives you power
+over all offenders.
+
+KING.--Very true. Listen to me, thou favorite guest of flowering plants;
+why give thyself the trouble of hovering here? See where thy partner
+sits on yonder flower, And waits for thee ere she will sip its dew.
+
+SANUMATI [_aside_].--A most polite way of warning him off!
+
+MATHAVYA.--You'll find the obstinate creature is not to be sent about
+his business so easily as you think.
+
+KING.--Dost thou presume to disobey? Now hear me--
+    An thou but touch the lips of my beloved,
+    Sweet as the opening blossom, whence I quaffed
+    In happier days love's nectar, I will place thee
+    Within the hollow of yon lotus cup,
+    And there imprison thee for thy presumption.
+
+MATHAVYA.--He must be bold indeed not to show any fear when you threaten
+him with such an awful punishment. [_Smiling, aside_.] He is stark mad,
+that's clear; and I believe, by keeping him company, I am beginning to
+talk almost as wildly. [_Aloud_.] Look, it is only a painted bee.
+
+KING.--Painted? impossible!
+
+SANUMATI [_aside_].--Even I did not perceive it; how much less should
+he?
+
+KING.--Oh! my dear friend, why were you so ill-natured as to tell me the
+truth?
+    While, all entranced, I gazed upon her picture,
+    My loved one seemed to live before my eyes,
+    Till every fibre of my being thrilled
+    With rapturous emotion. Oh! 'twas cruel
+    To dissipate the day-dream, and transform
+    The blissful vision to a lifeless image.
+          [_Sheds tears_.
+
+SANUMATI [_aside_].--Separated lovers are very difficult to please; but
+he seems more difficult than usual.
+
+KING.--Alas! my dear Mathavya, why am I doomed to be the victim of
+perpetual disappointment?
+    Vain is the hope of meeting her in dreams,
+    For slumber night by night forsakes my couch:
+    And now that I would fain assuage my grief
+    By gazing on her portrait here before me,
+    Tears of despairing love obscure my sight.
+
+SANUMATI [_aside_],--You have made ample amends for the wrong you did
+Sakoontala in disowning her.
+
+CHATURIKA [_entering_].--Victory to the King! I was coming along with
+the box of colors in my hand------
+
+KING.--What now?
+
+CHATURIKA.--When I met the Queen Vasumati, attended by Taralika. She
+insisted on taking it from me, and declared she would herself deliver it
+into your Majesty's hands.
+
+MATHAVYA.--By what luck did you contrive to escape her?
+
+CHATURIKA.--While her maid was disengaging her mantle, which had caught
+in the branch of a shrub, I ran away.
+
+KING.--Here, my good friend, take the picture and conceal it. My
+attentions to the Queen have made her presumptuous. She will be here in
+a minute.
+
+MATHAVYA.--Conceal the picture! conceal myself, you mean. [_Getting up
+and taking the picture_.] The Queen has a bitter draught in store for
+you, which you will have to swallow as Siva did the poison at the
+Deluge. When you are well quit of her, you may send and call me from the
+Palace of Clouds,[42] where I shall take refuge.
+          [_Exit, running_.
+
+SANUMATI [_aside_].--Although the King's affections are transferred to
+another object, yet he respects his previous attachments. I fear his
+love must be somewhat fickle.
+
+VETRAVATI [_entering with a despatch in her hand_].--Victory to the
+King!
+
+KING.---Vetravati, did you observe the Queen Vasumati coming in this
+direction?
+
+VETRAVATI.--I did; but when she saw that I had a despatch in my hand for
+your Majesty, she turned back.
+
+KING.--The Queen has too much regard for propriety to interrupt me when
+I am engaged with state-affairs.
+
+VETRAVATI.--So please your Majesty, your Prime Minister begs
+respectfully to inform you that he has devoted much time to the
+settlement of financial calculations, and only one case of importance
+has been submitted by the citizens for his consideration. He has made a
+written report of the facts, and requests your Majesty to cast your eyes
+over it.
+
+KING.--Hand me the paper.
+          [_Vetravati delivers it_.
+
+KING [_reading_].--What have we here? "A merchant named Dhanamitra,
+trading by sea, was lost in a late shipwreck. Though a wealthy trader,
+he was childless; and the whole of his immense property becomes by law
+forfeited to the King." So writes the minister. Alas! alas! for his
+childlessness. But surely, if he was wealthy, he must have had many
+wives. Let an inquiry be made whether any one of them is expecting to
+give birth to a child.
+
+VETRAVATI.--They say that his wife, the daughter of the foreman of a
+guild belonging to Ayodhya, has just completed the ceremonies usual upon
+such expectations.
+
+KING.--The unborn child has a title to his father's property. Such is my
+decree. Go, bid my minister proclaim it so.
+
+VETRAVATI.--I will, my liege.          [_Going_.
+
+KING.--Stay a moment.
+
+VETRAVATI.--I am at your Majesty's service.
+
+KING.--Let there be no question whether he may or may not have left
+offspring;
+    Rather be it proclaimed that whosoe'er
+    Of King Dushyanta's subjects be bereaved
+    Of any loved relation, an it be not
+    That his estates are forfeited for crimes,
+    Dushyanta will himself to them supply
+    That kinsman's place in tenderest affection.
+
+VETRAVATI.--It shall be so proclaimed.
+
+          [_Exit Vetravati, and reenter after an interval_.
+
+VETRAVATI.--Your Majesty's proclamation was received with acclamations
+of joy, like grateful rain at the right season.
+
+KING [_drawing a deep sigh_].--So then, the property of rich men, who
+have no lineal descendants, passes over to a stranger at their decease.
+And such, alas! must be the fate of the fortunes of the race of Puru at
+my death; even as when fertile soil is sown with seed at the wrong
+season.
+
+VETRAVATI.--Heaven forbid!
+
+KING.--Fool that I was to reject such happiness when it offered itself
+for my acceptance!
+
+SANUMATI [_aside_].--He may well blame his own folly when he calls to
+mind his treatment of my beloved Sakoontala.
+
+KING.--Ah! woe is me? when I forsook my wife--
+    My lawful wife--concealed within her breast
+    There lay my second self, a child unborn,
+    Hope of my race, e'en as the choicest fruit
+    Lies hidden in the bosom of the earth.
+
+SANUMATI [_aside_].--There is no fear of your race being cut off for
+want of a son.
+
+CHATURIKA [_aside to Vetravati_].--The affair of the merchant's death
+has quite upset our royal master, and caused him sad distress. Had you
+not better fetch the worthy Mathavya from the Palace of Clouds to
+comfort him?
+
+VETRAVATI.--A very good idea. [_Exit_.
+
+KING.--Alas! the shades of my forefathers are even now beginning to be
+alarmed, lest at my death they may be deprived of their funeral
+libations.
+    No son remains in King Dushyanta's place
+    To offer sacred homage to the dead
+    Of Puru's noble line: my ancestors
+    Must drink these glistening tears, the last libation
+    A childless man can ever hope to make them.
+          [_Falls down in an agony of grief_.
+
+CHATURIKA [_looking at him in consternation_].--Great King, compose
+yourself.
+
+SANUMATI [_aside_].--Alas! alas! though a bright light is shining near
+him, he is involved in the blackest darkness, by reason of the veil that
+obscures his sight. I will now reveal all, and put an end to his misery.
+But no; I heard the mother of the great Indra, when she was consoling
+Sakoontala, say, that the gods will soon bring about a joyful union
+between husband and wife, being eager for the sacrifice which will be
+celebrated in their honor on the occasion. I must not anticipate the
+happy moment, but will return at once to my dear friend and cheer her
+with an account of what I have seen and heard.
+          [_Rises aloft and disappears_.
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--Help! help! to the rescue!
+
+KING [_recovering himself. Listening_].--Ha! I heard a cry of distress,
+and in Mathavya's voice. What ho there!
+
+VETRAVATI [_entering_].--Your friend is in danger; save him, great King.
+
+KING.--Who dares insult the worthy Mathavya?
+
+VETRAVATI.--Some evil demon, invisible to human eyes, has seized him,
+and carried him to one of the turrets of the Palace of Clouds.
+
+KING [_rising_].--Impossible! Have evil spirits power over my subjects,
+even in my private apartments? Well, well--
+    Daily I seem less able to avert
+    Misfortune from myself, and o'er my actions
+    Less competent to exercise control;
+    How can I then direct my subjects' ways,
+    Or shelter them from tyranny and wrong?
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--Halloo there! my dear friend; help!
+help!
+
+KING [_advancing with rapid strides_].--Fear nothing--
+
+THE SAME VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--Fear nothing, indeed! How can I
+help fearing when some monster is twisting back my neck, and is about to
+snap it as he would a sugarcane?
+
+KING [_looking round_].--What ho there! my bow.
+
+SLAVE [_entering with a bow_].--Behold your bow, Sire, and your
+arm-guard.
+
+          [_The king snatches up the bow and arrows_.
+
+ANOTHER VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--Here, thirsting for thy
+life-blood, will I slay thee, As a fierce tiger rends his struggling
+prey. Call now thy friend Dushyanta to thy aid; His bow is mighty to
+defend the weak; Yet all its vaunted power shall be as nought.
+
+KING [_with fury_].--What! dares he defy me to my face? Hold there,
+monster! Prepare to die, for your time is come. [_Stringing his bow_.]
+Vetravati, lead the way to the terrace.
+
+VETRAVATI.--This way, Sire. [_They advance in haste_.
+
+KING [_looking on every side_].--How's this? there is nothing to be
+seen.
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--Help! Save me! I can see you, though you
+cannot see me. I am like a mouse in the claws of a cat; my life is not
+worth a moment's purchase.
+
+KING.--Avaunt, monster! You may pride yourself on the magic that renders
+you invisible, but my arrow shall find you out. Thus do I fix a shaft
+    That shall discern between an impious demon
+    And a good Brahman; bearing death to thee,
+    To him deliverance--even as the swan
+    Distinguishes the milk from worthless water.
+          [_Takes aim_.
+
+          _Enter Matali, holding Mathavya, whom he releases_.
+
+MATALI.--Turn thou thy deadly arrows on the demons;
+    Such is the will of Indra; let thy bow
+    Be drawn against the enemies of the gods;
+    But on thy friends cast only looks of favor.
+
+KING [_putting back his arrow_].--What, Matali! Welcome, most noble
+charioteer of the mighty Indra.
+
+MATHAVYA.--So, here is a monster who thought as little about
+slaughtering me as if I had been a bullock for sacrifice, and you must
+e'en greet him with a welcome.
+
+MATALI [_smiling_].--Great Prince, hear on what errand Indra sent me
+into your presence.
+
+KING.--I am all attention.
+
+MATALI.--There is a race of giants, the descendants of Kalanemi, whom
+the gods find difficult to subdue.
+
+KING.--So I have already heard from Narada.
+
+MATALI.--Heaven's mighty lord, who deigns to call thee "friend,"
+    Appoints thee to the post of highest honor,
+    As leader of his armies; and commits
+    The subjugation of this giant brood
+    To thy resistless arms, e'en as the sun
+    Leaves the pale moon to dissipate the darkness.
+
+Let your Majesty, therefore, ascend at once the celestial car of Indra;
+and, grasping your arms, advance to victory.
+
+KING.--The mighty Indra honors me too highly by such a mark of
+distinction. But tell me, what made you act thus towards my poor friend
+Mathavya?
+
+MATALI.--I will tell you. Perceiving that your Majesty's spirit was
+completely broken by some distress of mind under which you were
+laboring, I determined to rouse your energies by moving you to anger.
+Because
+    To light a flame, we need but stir the embers;
+    The cobra, when incensed, extends his head
+    And springs upon his foe; the bravest men
+    Display their courage only when provoked.
+
+KING [_aside to Mathavya_].--My dear Mathavya, the commands of the great
+Indra must not be left unfulfilled. Go you and acquaint my minister,
+Pisuna, with what has happened, and say to him from me, Dushyanta to thy
+care confides his realm--
+    Protect with all the vigor of thy mind
+    The interests of my people; while my bow
+    Is braced against the enemies of heaven.
+
+MATHAVYA.--I obey.          [_Exit._
+
+MATALI.--Ascend, illustrious Prince.
+          [_The King ascends the car. Exeunt_.
+
+
+[41] The Koeil is the Indian cuckoo. It is sometimes called Parabhrita
+(nourished by another) because the female is known to leave her eggs in
+the nest of the crow to be hatched. The bird is a great favorite with
+the Indian poets, as the nightingale with Europeans.
+
+[42] Palace of King Dushyanta, so-called because it was as lofty as the
+clouds.
+
+
+
+
+ACT SEVENTH
+
+Scene.--The Sky
+
+
+_Enter King Dushyanta and Matali in the car of Indra, moving in the
+air_.
+
+KING.--My good Matali, it appears to me incredible that I can merit such
+a mark of distinction for having simply fulfilled the behests of the
+great Indra.
+
+MATALI [_smiling_].--Great Prince, it seems to me that neither of you is
+satisfied with himself--
+    You underrate the service you have rendered,
+    And think too highly of the god's reward:
+    He deems it scarce sufficient recompense
+    For your heroic deeds on his behalf.
+
+KING.--Nay, Matali, say not so. My most ambitious expectations were more
+than realized by the honor conferred on me at the moment when I took my
+leave. For,
+    Tinged with celestial sandal, from the breast
+    Of the great Indra, where before it hung,
+    A garland of the ever-blooming tree
+    Of Nandana was cast about my neck
+    By his own hand: while, in the very presence
+    Of the assembled gods, I was enthroned
+    Beside their mighty lord, who smiled to see
+    His son Jayanta envious of the honor.
+
+MATALI.--There is no mark of distinction which your Majesty does not
+deserve at the hands of the immortals. See,
+    Heaven's hosts acknowledge thee their second saviour;
+    For now thy bow's unerring shafts (as erst
+    The lion-man's terrific claws) have purged
+    The empyreal sphere from taint of demons foul.
+
+KING.--The praise of my victory must be ascribed to the majesty of
+Indra.
+    When mighty gods make men their delegates
+    In martial enterprise, to them belongs
+    The palm of victory; and not to mortals.
+    Could the pale Dawn dispel the shades of night,
+    Did not the god of day, whose diadem
+    Is jewelled with a thousand beams of light,
+    Place him in front of his effulgent car?
+
+MATALI.--A very just comparison. [_Driving on._] Great King, behold! the
+glory of thy fame has reached even to the vault of heaven.
+    Hark! yonder inmates of the starry sphere
+    Sing anthems worthy of thy martial deeds,
+    While with celestial colors they depict
+    The story of thy victories on scrolls
+    Formed of the leaves of heaven's immortal trees.
+
+KING.--My good Matali, yesterday, when I ascended the sky, I was so
+eager to do battle with the demons, that the road by which we were
+travelling towards Indra's heaven escaped my observation. Tell me, in
+which path of the seven winds are we now moving?
+
+MATALI.--We journey in the path of Parivaha;
+    The wind that bears along the triple Ganges,
+    And causes Ursa's seven stars to roll
+    In their appointed orbits, scattering
+    Their several rays with equal distribution.
+    'Tis the same path that once was sanctified
+    By the divine impression of the foot
+    Of Vishnu, when, to conquer haughty Bali,
+    He spanned the heavens in his second stride.
+
+KING.--This is the reason, I suppose, that a sensation of calm repose
+pervades all my senses. [_Looking down at the wheels._] Ah! Matali, we
+are descending towards the earth's atmosphere.
+
+MATALI.--What makes you think so?
+
+KING.--The car itself instructs me; we are moving
+    O'er pregnant clouds, surcharged with rain; below us
+    I see the moisture-loving Chatakas
+    In sportive flight dart through the spokes; the steeds
+    Of Indra glisten with the lightning's flash;
+    And a thick mist bedews the circling wheels.
+
+MATALI.--You are right; in a little while the chariot will touch the
+ground, and you will be in your own dominions.
+
+KING [_looking down_],--How wonderful is the appearance of the earth as
+we rapidly descend!
+    Stupendous prospect! yonder lofty hills
+    Do suddenly uprear their towering heads
+    Amid the plain, while from beneath their crests
+    The ground receding sinks; the trees, whose stems
+    Seemed lately hid within their leafy tresses,
+    Rise into elevation, and display
+    Their branching shoulders; yonder streams, whose waters,
+    Like silver threads, but now were scarcely seen,
+    Grow into mighty rivers; lo! the earth
+    Seems upward hurled by some gigantic power.
+
+MATALI.--Well described! [_Looking with awe._] Grand, indeed, and lovely
+is the spectacle presented by the earth.
+
+KING.--Tell me, Matali, what is that range of mountains which, like a
+bank of clouds illumined by the setting sun, pours down a stream of
+gold? On one side its base dips into the eastern ocean, and on the other
+side into the western.
+
+MATALI.--Great Prince, it is called "Golden-peak,"[43] and is the abode
+of the attendants of the god of Wealth. In this spot the highest forms
+of penance are wrought out.
+    There Kasyapa, the great progenitor
+    Of demons and of gods, himself the offspring
+    Of the divine Marichi, Brahma's son,
+    With Aditi, his wife, in calm seclusion,
+    Does holy penance for the good of mortals.
+
+KING.--Then I must not neglect so good an opportunity of obtaining his
+blessing. I should much like to visit this venerable personage and offer
+him my homage.
+
+MATALI.--By all means! An excellent idea. [_Guides the car to the
+earth._]
+
+KING [_in a tone of wonder_].--How's this?
+    Our chariot wheels move noiselessly. Around
+    No clouds of dust arise; no shock betokened
+    Our contact with the earth; we seem to glide
+    Above the ground, so lightly do we touch it.
+
+MATALI.--Such is the difference between the car of Indra and that of
+your Majesty.
+
+KING.--In which direction, Matali, is Kasyapa's sacred retreat?
+
+MATALI [_pointing_].--Where stands yon anchorite, towards the orb
+    Of the meridian sun, immovable
+    As a tree's stem, his body half-concealed
+    By a huge ant-hill. Round about his breast
+    No sacred cord is twined, but in its stead
+    A hideous serpent's skin. In place of necklace,
+    The tendrils of a withered creeper chafe
+    His wasted neck. His matted hair depends
+    In thick entanglement about his shoulders,
+    And birds construct their nests within its folds.
+
+KING.--I salute thee, thou man of austere devotion.
+
+MATALI [_holding in the reins of the car_].--Great Prince, we are now in
+the sacred grove of the holy Kasyapa--the grove that boasts as its
+ornament one of the five trees of Indra's heaven, reared by Aditi.
+
+KING.--This sacred retreat is more delightful than heaven itself. I
+could almost fancy myself bathing in a pool of nectar.
+
+MATALI [_stopping the chariot_].--Descend, mighty Prince.
+
+KING [_descending_].--And what will you do, Matali?
+
+MATALI.--The chariot will remain where I have stopped it. We may both
+descend. [_Doing so._] This way, great King, [_Walking on._] You see
+around you the celebrated region where the holiest sages devote
+themselves to penitential rites.
+
+KING.--I am filled with awe and wonder as I gaze.
+    In such a place as this do saints of earth
+    Long to complete their acts of penance; here,
+    Beneath the shade of everlasting trees,
+    Transplanted from the groves of Paradise,
+    May they inhale the balmy air, and need
+    No other nourishment; here may they bathe
+    In fountains sparkling with the golden dust
+    Of lilies; here, on jewelled slabs of marble,
+    In meditation rapt, may they recline;
+    Here, in the presence of celestial nymphs,
+    E'en passion's voice is powerless to move them.
+
+MATALI.--So true is it that the aspirations of the good and great are
+ever soaring upwards. [_Turning round and speaking off the stage_.] Tell
+me, Vriddha-sakalya, how is the divine son of Marichi now engaged? What
+sayest thou? that he is conversing with Aditi and some of the wives of
+the great sages, and that they are questioning him respecting the duties
+of a faithful wife?
+
+KING [_listening_].--Then we must await the holy father's leisure.
+
+MATALI [_looking at the King_].--If your Majesty will rest under the
+shade, at the foot of this Asoka-tree, I will seek an opportunity of
+announcing your arrival to Indra's reputed father.
+
+KING.--As you think proper.          [_Remains under the tree_.
+
+MATALI.--Great King, I go.          [_Exit._
+
+KING [_feeling his arm throb_].--Wherefore this causeless throbbing, O
+mine arm?
+    All hope has fled forever; mock me not
+    With presages of good, when happiness
+    Is lost, and nought but misery remains.
+
+A VOICE [_behind the scenes_].--Be not so naughty. Do you begin already
+to show a refractory spirit?
+
+KING [_listening_].--This is no place for petulance. Who can it be whose
+behavior calls for such a rebuke? [_Looking in the direction of the
+sound and smiling_.] A child, is it? closely attended by two holy women.
+His disposition seems anything but childlike. See,
+    He braves the fury of yon lioness
+    Suckling its savage offspring, and compels
+    The angry whelp to leave the half-sucked dug,
+    Tearing its tender mane in boisterous sport.
+
+_Enter a child, attended by two women of the hermitage, In the manner
+described_.
+
+CHILD.--Open your mouth, my young lion, I want to count your teeth.
+
+FIRST ATTENDANT.--You naughty child, why do you tease the animals? Know
+you not that we cherish them in this hermitage as if they were our own
+children? In good sooth, you have a high spirit of your own, and are
+beginning already to do justice to the name Sarva-damana (All-taming),
+given you by the hermits.
+
+KING.--Strange! My heart inclines towards the boy with almost as much
+affection as if he were my own child. What can be the reason? I suppose
+my own childlessness makes me yearn towards the sons of others.
+
+SECOND ATTENDANT.--This lioness will certainly attack you if you do not
+release her whelp.
+
+CHILD [_laughing_].--Oh! indeed! let her come. Much I fear her, to be
+sure.          [_Pouts his under-lip in defiance_.
+
+KING.--The germ of mighty courage lies concealed
+    Within this noble infant, like a spark
+    Beneath the fuel, waiting but a breath
+    To fan the flame and raise a conflagration.
+
+FIRST ATTENDANT.--Let the young lion go, like a dear child, and I will
+give you something else to play with.
+
+CHILD.--Where is it? Give it me first.
+          [_Stretches out his hand._
+
+KING [_looking at his hand_].--How's this? His hand exhibits one of
+those mystic marks which are the sure prognostic of universal empire.
+See!
+    His fingers stretched in eager expectation
+    To grasp the wished-for toy, and knit together
+    By a close-woven web, in shape resemble
+    A lotus-blossom, whose expanding petals
+    The early dawn has only half unfolded.
+
+SECOND ATTENDANT.--We shall never pacify him by mere words, dear
+Suvrata. Be kind enough to go to my cottage, and you will find there a
+plaything belonging to Markandeya, one of the hermit's children. It is a
+peacock made of China-ware, painted in many colors. Bring it here for
+the child.
+
+FIRST ATTENDANT.--Very well.          [_Exit._
+
+CHILD.--No, no; I shall go on playing with the young lion.
+
+          [_Looks at the female attendant and laughs_.
+
+KING.--I feel an unaccountable affection for this wayward child.
+    How blessed the virtuous parents whose attire
+    Is soiled with dust, by raising from the ground
+    The child that asks a refuge in their arms!
+    And happy are they while with lisping prattle,
+    In accents sweetly inarticulate,
+    He charms their ears; and with his artless smiles
+    Gladdens their hearts, revealing to their gaze
+    His tiny teeth, just budding into view.
+
+ATTENDANT.--I see how it is. He pays me no manner of attention.
+[_Looking off the stage._] I wonder whether any of the hermits are about
+here. [_Seeing the King._] Kind Sir, could you come hither a moment and
+help me to release the young lion from the clutch of this child, who is
+teasing him in boyish play?
+
+KING [_approaching and smiling_].--Listen to me, thou child of a mighty
+saint.
+    Dost thou dare show a wayward spirit here?
+    Here, in this hallowed region? Take thou heed
+    Lest, as the serpent's young defiles the sandal,
+    Thou bring dishonor on the holy sage,
+    Thy tender-hearted parent, who delights
+    To shield from harm the tenants of the wood.
+
+ATTENDANT.--Gentle Sir, I thank you; but he is not the saint's son.
+
+KING.--His behavior and whole bearing would have led me to doubt it, had
+not the place of his abode encouraged the idea.
+
+[_Follows the child, and takes him by the hand, according to the request
+of the attendant. Speaking aside._
+    I marvel that the touch of this strange child
+    Should thrill me with delight; if so it be,
+    How must the fond caresses of a son
+    Transport the father's soul who gave him being!
+
+ATTENDANT [_looking at them both_].--Wonderful! Prodigious!
+
+KING.--What excites your surprise, my good woman?
+
+ATTENDANT.--I am astonished at the striking resemblance between the
+child and yourself; and, what is still more extraordinary, he seems to
+have taken to you kindly and submissively, though you are a stranger to
+him.
+
+KING [_fondling the child_].--If he be not the son of the great sage, of
+what family does he come, may I ask?
+
+ATTENDANT.--Of the race of Puru.
+
+KING [_aside_].--What! are we, then, descended from the same ancestry?
+This, no doubt, accounts for the resemblance she traces between the
+child and me. Certainly it has always been an established usage among
+the princes of Puru's race,
+    To dedicate the morning of their days
+    To the world's weal, in palaces and halls,
+    'Mid luxury and regal pomp abiding;
+    Then, in the wane of life, to seek release
+    From kingly cares, and make the hallowed shade
+    Of sacred trees their last asylum, where
+    As hermits they may practise self-abasement,
+    And bind themselves by rigid vows of penance.
+[_Aloud._] But how could mortals by their own power gain admission to
+this sacred region?
+
+ATTENDANT.--Your remark is just; but your wonder will cease when I tell
+you that his mother is the offspring of a celestial nymph, and gave him
+birth in the hallowed grove of Kasyapa.
+
+KING [_aside_].--Strange that my hopes should be again excited!
+[_Aloud._] But what, let me ask, was the name of the prince whom she
+deigned to honor with her hand?
+
+ATTENDANT.--How could I think of polluting my lips by the mention of a
+wretch who had the cruelty to desert his lawful wife?
+
+KING [_aside_].--Ha! the description suits me exactly. Would I could
+bring myself to inquire the name of the child's mother! [_Reflecting._]
+But it is against propriety to make too minute inquiries about the wife
+of another man.
+
+FIRST ATTENDANT [_entering with the china peacock in her
+hand_].--Sarva-damana, Sarva-damana, see, see, what a beautiful Sakoonta
+(bird).
+
+CHILD [_looking round_].--My mother! Where? Let me go to her.
+
+BOTH ATTENDANTS.--He mistook the word Sakoonta for Sakoontala. The boy
+dotes upon his mother, and she is ever uppermost in his thoughts.
+
+SECOND ATTENDANT.--Nay, my dear child, I said, Look at the beauty of
+this Sakoonta.
+
+KING [_aside_].--What! is his mother's name Sakoontala? But the name is
+not uncommon among women. Alas! I fear the mere similarity of a name,
+like the deceitful vapor of the desert, has once more raised my hopes
+only to dash them to the ground.
+
+CHILD [_takes the toy_].--Dear nurse, what a beautiful peacock!
+
+FIRST ATTENDANT [_looking at the child. In great distress_].--Alas!
+alas! I do not see the amulet on his wrist.
+
+KING.--Don't distress yourself. Here it is. It fell off while he was
+struggling with the young lion.
+
+          [_Stoops to pick it up_.
+
+BOTH ATTENDANTS.--Hold! hold! Touch it not, for your life. How
+marvellous! He has actually taken it up without the slightest
+hesitation.
+
+[_Both raise their hands to their breasts and look at each other in
+astonishment._
+
+KING.--Why did you try to prevent my touching it?
+
+FIRST ATTENDANT.--Listen, great Monarch. This amulet, known as "The
+Invincible," was given to the boy by the divine son of Marichi, soon
+after his birth, when the natal ceremony was performed. Its peculiar
+virtue is, that when it falls on the ground, no one excepting the father
+or mother of the child can touch it unhurt.
+
+KING.--And suppose another person touches it?
+
+FIRST ATTENDANT.--Then it instantly becomes a serpent, and bites him.
+
+KING.--Have you ever witnessed the transformation with your own eyes?
+
+BOTH ATTENDANTS.--Over and over again.
+
+KING [_with rapture. Aside_].--Joy! joy! Are then my dearest hopes to be
+fulfilled?
+          [_Embraces the child_.
+
+SECOND ATTENDANT.--Come, my dear Suvrata, we must inform Sakoontala
+immediately of this wonderful event, though we have to interrupt her in
+the performance of her religious vows.
+          [_Exeunt._
+
+CHILD [_to the King_].--Do not hold me. I want to go to my mother.
+
+KING.--We will go to her together, and give her joy, my son.
+
+CHILD.--Dushyanta is my father, not you.
+
+KING [_smiling_].--His contradiction convinces me only the more.
+
+_Enter Sakoontala, in widow's apparel, with her long hair twisted into a
+single braid_.
+
+SAKOONTALA [_aside_].--I have just heard that Sarva-damana's amulet has
+retained its form, though a stranger raised it from the ground. I can
+hardly believe in my good fortune. Yet why should not Sanumati's
+prediction be verified?
+
+KING [_gazing at Sakoontala_].--Alas! can this indeed be my Sakoontala?
+    Clad in the weeds of widowhood, her face
+    Emaciate with fasting, her long hair
+    Twined in a single braid, her whole demeanor
+    Expressive of her purity of soul:
+    With patient constancy she thus prolongs
+    The vow to which my cruelty condemned her.
+
+SAKOONTALA [_gazing at the King, who is pale with remorse_]. Surely this
+is not like my husband; yet who can it be that dares pollute by the
+pressure of his hand my child, whose amulet should protect him from a
+stranger's touch?
+
+CHILD [_going to his mother_].--Mother, who is this man that has been
+kissing me and calling me his son?
+
+KING.--My best beloved, I have indeed treated thee most cruelly, but am
+now once more thy fond and affectionate lover. Refuse not to acknowledge
+me as thy husband.
+
+SAKOONTALA [_aside_].--Be of good cheer, my heart. The anger of Destiny
+is at last appeased. Heaven regards thee with compassion. But is he in
+very truth my husband?
+
+KING.--Behold me, best and loveliest of women,
+    Delivered from the cloud of fatal darkness
+    That erst oppressed my memory. Again
+    Behold us brought together by the grace
+    Of the great lord of Heaven. So the moon
+    Shines forth from dim eclipse, to blend his rays
+    With the soft lustre of his Rohini.
+
+SAKOONTALA.--May my husband be victorious------
+          [_She stops short, her voice choked with tears._
+
+KING.--O fair one, though the utterance of thy prayer
+    Be lost amid the torrent of thy tears,
+    Yet does the sight of thy fair countenance,
+    And of thy pallid lips, all unadorned
+    And colorless in sorrow for my absence,
+    Make me already more than conqueror.
+
+CHILD.--Mother, who is this man?
+
+SAKOONTALA.--My child, ask the deity that presides over thy destiny.
+
+KING [_falling at Sakoontala's feet_].--Fairest of women, banish from
+thy mind
+    The memory of my cruelty; reproach
+    The fell delusion that overpowered my soul,
+    And blame not me, thy husband; 'tis the curse
+    Of him in whom the power of darkness reigns,
+    That he mistakes the gifts of those he loves
+    For deadly evils. Even though a friend
+    Should wreathe a garland on a blind man's brow,
+    Will he not cast it from him as a serpent?
+
+SAKOONTALA.--Rise, my own husband, rise. Thou wast not to blame. My own
+evil deeds, committed in a former state of being, brought down this
+judgment upon me. How else could my husband, who was ever of a
+compassionate disposition, have acted so unfeelingly? [_The King
+rises_.] But tell me, my husband, how did the remembrance of thine
+unfortunate wife return to thy mind?
+
+KING.--As soon as my heart's anguish is removed, and its wounds are
+healed, I will tell thee all.
+    Oh! let me, fair one, chase away the drop
+    That still bedews the fringes of thine eye;
+    And let me thus efface the memory
+    Of every tear that stained thy velvet cheek,
+    Unnoticed and unheeded by thy lord,
+    When in his madness he rejected thee.
+          [_Wipes away the tear_.
+
+SAKOONTALA [_seeing the signet-ring on his finger_].--Ah! my dear
+husband, is that the Lost Ring?
+
+KING.--Yes; the moment I recovered it, my memory was restored.
+
+SAKOONTALA.--The ring was to blame in allowing itself to be lost at the
+very time when I was anxious to convince my noble husband of the reality
+of my marriage.
+
+KING.--Receive it back, as the beautiful twining plant receives again
+its blossom in token of its reunion with the spring.
+
+SAKOONTALA.--Nay; I can never more place confidence in it. Let my
+husband retain it.
+
+          _Enter Matali_.
+
+MATALI.--I congratulate your Majesty. Happy are you in your reunion with
+your wife: happy are you in beholding the face of your son.
+
+KING.--Yes, indeed. My heart's dearest wish has borne sweet fruit. But
+tell me, Matali, is this joyful event known to the great Indra?
+
+MATALI [_smiling_].--What is unknown to the gods? But come with me,
+noble Prince, the divine Kasyapa graciously permits thee to be presented
+to him.
+
+KING.--Sakoontala, take our child and lead the way. We will together go
+into the presence of the holy Sage.
+
+SAKOONTALA.--I shrink from entering the august presence of the great
+Saint, even with my husband at my side.
+
+KING.--Nay; on such a joyous occasion it is highly proper. Come, come; I
+entreat thee.          [_All advance_.
+
+          _Kasyapa is discovered seated on a throne with his wife Aditi_.
+
+KASYAPA [_gazing at Dushyanta. To his wife_].--O Aditi, This is the
+mighty hero, King Dushyanta, Protector of the earth; who, at the head Of
+the celestial armies of thy son, Does battle with the enemies of heaven.
+Thanks to his bow, the thunderbolt of Indra Rests from its work, no more
+the minister Of death and desolation to the world, But a mere symbol of
+divinity.
+
+ADITI.--He bears in his noble form all the marks of dignity.
+
+MATALI [_to Dushyanta_].--Sire, the venerable progenitors of the
+celestials are gazing at your Majesty with as much affection as if you
+were their son. You may advance towards them.
+
+KING.--Are these, O Matali, the holy pair,
+    Offspring of Daksha and divine Marichi,
+    Children of Brahma's sons, by sages deemed
+    Sole fountain of celestial light, diffused
+    Through twelve effulgent orbs? Are these the pair
+    From whom the ruler of the triple world,
+    Sovereign of gods and lord of sacrifice,
+    Sprang into being? That immortal pair
+    Whom Vishnu, greater than the self-existent,
+    Chose for his parents, when, to save mankind,
+    He took upon himself the shape of mortals?
+
+MATALI.--Even so.
+
+KING [_prostrating himself_].--Most august of beings, Dushyanta, content
+to have fulfilled the commands of your son Indra, offers you his
+adoration.
+
+KASYAPA.--My son, long may'st thou live, and happily may'st thou reign
+over the earth!
+
+ADITI.--My son, may'st thou ever be invincible in the field of battle!
+
+SAKOONTALA.--I also prostrate myself before you, most adorable beings,
+and my child with me.
+
+KASYAPA.--My daughter,
+    Thy lord resembles Indra, and thy child
+    Is noble as Jayanta, Indra's son;
+    I have no worthier blessing left for thee,
+    May'st thou be faithful as the god's own wife!
+
+ADITI.--My daughter, may'st thou be always the object of thy husband's
+fondest love; and may thy son live long to be the joy of both his
+parents! Be seated.
+
+          [_All sit down in the presence of Kasyapa_.
+
+KASYAPA [_regarding each of them by turns_].--Hail to the beautiful
+Sakoontala!
+    Hail to her noble son! and hail to thee,
+    Illustrious Prince! Rare triple combination
+    Of virtue, wealth, and energy united!
+
+KING.--Most venerable Kasyapa, by your favor all my desires were
+accomplished even before I was admitted to your presence. Never was
+mortal so honored that his boon should be granted ere it was solicited.
+Because,
+    Bloom before fruit, the clouds before the rain--
+    Cause first and then effect, in endless sequence,
+    Is the unchanging law of constant nature:
+    But, ere the blessing issued from thy lips,
+    The wishes of my heart were all fulfilled.
+
+MATALI.--It is thus that the great progenitors of the world confer
+favors.
+
+KING.--Most reverend Sage, this thy handmaid was married to me by the
+Gandharva ceremony, and after a time was conducted to my palace by her
+relations. Meanwhile a fatal delusion seized me; I lost my memory and
+rejected her, thus committing a grievous offence against the venerable
+Kanwa, who is of thy divine race. Afterwards the sight of this ring
+restored my faculties, and brought back to my mind all the circumstances
+of my union with his daughter. But my conduct still seems to me
+incomprehensible;
+    As foolish as the fancies of a man
+    Who, when he sees an elephant, denies
+    That 'tis an elephant, yet afterwards,
+    When its huge bulk moves onward, hesitates,
+    Yet will not be convinced till it has passed
+    Forever from his sight, and left behind
+    No vestige of its presence save its footsteps.
+
+KASYAPA.--My son, cease to think thyself in fault. Even the delusion
+that possessed thy mind was not brought about by any act of thine.
+Listen to me.
+
+KING.--I am attentive.
+
+KASYAPA.--Know that when the nymph Menaka, the mother of Sakoontala,
+became aware of her daughter's anguish in consequence of the loss of the
+ring at the nymphs' pool, and of thy subsequent rejection of her, she
+brought her and confided her to the care of Aditi. And I no sooner saw
+her than I ascertained by my divine power of meditation, that thy
+repudiation of thy poor faithful wife had been caused entirely by the
+curse of Durvasas--not by thine own fault--and that the spell would
+terminate on the discovery of the ring.
+
+KING [_drawing a deep breath_].--Oh! what a weight is taken off my mind,
+now that my character is cleared of reproach.
+
+SAKOONTALA [_aside_].--Joy! joy! My revered husband did not, then,
+reject me without good reason, though I have no recollection of the
+curse pronounced upon me. But, in all probability, I unconsciously
+brought it upon myself, when I was so distracted on being separated from
+my husband soon after our marriage. For I now remember that my two
+friends advised me not to fail to show the ring in case he should have
+forgotten me.
+
+KASYAPA.--At last, my daughter, thou art happy, and hast gained thy
+heart's desire. Indulge, then, no feeling of resentment against thy
+partner. See, now,
+    Though he repulsed thee, 'twas the sage's curse
+    That clouded his remembrance; 'twas the curse
+    That made thy tender husband harsh towards thee.
+    Soon as the spell was broken, and his soul
+    Delivered from its darkness, in a moment
+    Thou didst gain thine empire o'er his heart.
+    So on the tarnished surface of a mirror
+    No image is reflected, till the dust
+    That dimmed its wonted lustre is removed.
+
+KING.--Holy father, see here the hope of my royal race.
+          [_Takes his child by the hand_.
+
+KASYAPA.--Know that he, too, will become the monarch of the whole earth.
+Observe,
+    Soon, a resistless hero, shall he cross
+    The trackless ocean, borne above the waves
+    In an aerial car; and shall subdue
+    The earth's seven sea-girt isles.[44] Now has he gained,
+    As the brave tamer of the forest-beasts,
+    The title Sarva-damana; but then
+    Mankind shall hail him as King Bharata,
+    And call him the supporter of the world.
+
+KING.--We cannot but entertain the highest hopes of a child for whom
+your highness performed the natal rites.
+
+ADITI.--My revered husband, should not the intelligence be conveyed to
+Kanwa, that his daughter's wishes are fulfilled, and her happiness
+complete? He is Sakoontala's foster-father. Menaka, who is one of my
+attendants, is her mother, and dearly does she love her daughter.
+
+SAKOONTALA [_aside_].--The venerable matron has given utterance to the
+very wish that was in my mind.
+
+KASYAPA.--His penances have gained for him the faculty of omniscience,
+and the whole scene is already present to his mind's eye.
+
+KING.--Then most assuredly he cannot be very angry with me.
+
+KASYAPA.--Nevertheless it becomes us to send him intelligence of this
+happy event, and hear his reply. What, ho there!
+
+PUPIL [_entering_].--Holy father, what are your commands?
+
+KASYAPA.--My good Galava, delay not an instant, but hasten through the
+air and convey to the venerable Kanwa, from me, the happy news that the
+fatal spell has ceased, that Dushyanta's memory is restored, that his
+daughter Sakoontala has a son, and that she is once more tenderly
+acknowledged by her husband.
+
+PUPIL.--Your highness's commands shall be obeyed.          [_Exit._
+
+KASYAPA.--And now, my dear son, take thy consort and thy child,
+re-ascend the car of Indra, and return to thy imperial capital.
+
+KING.--Most holy father, I obey.
+
+KASYAPA.--And accept this blessing--
+    For countless ages may the god of gods,
+    Lord of the atmosphere, by copious showers
+    Secure abundant harvest to thy subjects;
+    And thou by frequent offerings preserve
+    The Thunderer's friendship! Thus, by interchange
+    Of kindly actions, may you both confer
+    Unnumbered benefits on earth and heaven!
+
+KING.--Holy father, I will strive, as far as I am able, to attain this
+happiness.
+
+KASYAPA.--What other favor can I bestow on thee, my son?
+
+KING.--What other can I desire? If, however, you permit me to form
+another wish, I would humbly beg that the saying of the sage Bharata be
+fulfilled:--
+    May kings reign only for their subjects' weal!
+    May the divine Saraswati, the source
+    Of speech, and goddess of dramatic art,
+    Be ever honored by the great and wise!
+    And may the purple self-existent god,
+    Whose vital Energy pervades all space,
+    From future transmigrations save my soul!
+
+          [_Exeunt omnes_.
+
+
+[43] A sacred range of mountains lying along the Himalaya chain
+immediately adjacent to Kailasa, the paradise of Kuvera, the god of
+wealth.
+
+[44] According to the mythical geography of the Hindoos the earth
+consisted of seven islands surrounded by seven seas.
+
+
+
+
+BALLADS OF HINDOSTAN
+
+
+MISCELLANEOUS POEMS
+
+BY
+
+TORU DUTT
+
+
+INTRODUCTION
+
+
+If Toru Dutt were alive, she would still be younger than any recognized
+European writer, and yet her fame, which is already considerable, has
+been entirely posthumous. Within the brief space of four years which now
+divides us from the date of her decease, her genius has been revealed to
+the world under many phases, and has been recognized throughout France
+and England. Her name, at least, is no longer unfamiliar in the ear of
+any well-read man or woman. But at the hour of her death she had
+published but one book, and that book had found but two reviewers in
+Europe. One of these, M. Andre Theuriet, the well-known poet and
+novelist, gave the "Sheaf gleaned in French Fields" adequate praise in
+the "Revue des Deux Mondes"; but the other, the writer of the present
+notice, has a melancholy satisfaction in having been a little earlier
+still in sounding the only note of welcome which reached the dying
+poetess from England. It was while Professor W. Minto was editor of the
+"Examiner," that one day in August, 1876, in the very heart of the dead
+season for books, I happened to be in the office of that newspaper, and
+was upbraiding the whole body of publishers for issuing no books worth
+reviewing. At that moment the postman brought in a thin and sallow
+packet with a wonderful Indian postmark on it, and containing a most
+unattractive orange pamphlet of verse, printed at Bhowanipore, and
+entitled "A Sheaf gleaned in French Fields, by Toru Dutt." This shabby
+little book of some two hundred pages, without preface or introduction,
+seemed specially destined by its particular providence to find its way
+hastily into the waste-paper basket. I remember that Mr. Minto thrust it
+into my unwilling hands, and said "There! see whether you can't make
+something of that." A hopeless volume it seemed, with its queer type,
+published at Bhowanipore, printed at the Saptahiksambad Press! But when
+at last I took it out of my pocket, what was my surprise and almost
+rapture to open at such verse as this:--
+
+    "Still barred thy doors! The far East glows,
+      The morning wind blows fresh and free.
+    Should not the hour that wakes the rose
+            Awaken also thee?
+
+    "All look for thee, Love, Light, and Song,
+      Light in the sky deep red above,
+    Song, in the lark of pinions strong,
+            And in my heart, true Love.
+
+    "Apart we miss our nature's goal,
+      Why strive to cheat our destinies?
+    Was not my love made for thy soul?
+      Thy beauty for mine eyes?
+            No longer sleep,
+              Oh, listen now!
+            I wait and weep,
+              But where art thou?"
+
+When poetry is as good as this it does not much matter whether Rouveyre
+prints it upon Whatman paper, or whether it steals to light in blurred
+type from some press in Bhowanipore.
+
+Toru Dutt was the youngest of the three children of a high-caste Hindoo
+couple in Bengal. Her father, who survives them all, the Baboo Govin
+Chunder Dutt, is himself distinguished among his countrymen for the
+width of his views and the vigor of his intelligence. His only son,
+Abju, died in 1865, at the age of fourteen, and left his two younger
+sisters to console their parents. Aru, the elder daughter, born in 1854,
+was eighteen months senior to Toru, the subject of this memoir, who was
+born in Calcutta on March 4, 1856. With the exception of one year's
+visit to Bombay, the childhood of these girls was spent in Calcutta, at
+their father's garden-house. In a poem now printed for the first time,
+Toru refers to the scene of her earliest memories, the circling
+wilderness of foliage, the shining tank with the round leaves of the
+lilies, the murmuring dusk under the vast branches of the central
+casuarina-tree. Here, in a mystical retirement more irksome to a
+European in fancy than to an Oriental in reality, the brain of this
+wonderful child was moulded. She was pure Hindoo, full of the typical
+qualities of her race and blood, and, as the present volume shows us for
+the first time, preserving to the last her appreciation of the poetic
+side of her ancient religion, though faith itself in Vishnu and Siva had
+been cast aside with childish things and been replaced by a purer faith.
+Her mother fed her imagination with the old songs and legends of their
+people, stories which it was the last labor of her life to weave into
+English verse; but it would seem that the marvellous faculties of Toru's
+mind still slumbered, when, in her thirteenth year, her father decided
+to take his daughters to Europe to learn English and French. To the end
+of her days Toru was a better French than English scholar. She loved
+France best, she knew its literature best, she wrote its language with
+more perfect elegance. The Dutts arrived in Europe at the close of 1869,
+and the girls went to school, for the first and last time, at a French
+pension. They did not remain there very many months; their father took
+them to Italy and England with him, and finally they attended for a
+short time, but with great zeal and application, the lectures for women
+at Cambridge. In November, 1873, they went back to Bengal, and the four
+remaining years of Toru's life were spent in the old garden-house at
+Calcutta, in a feverish dream of intellectual effort and imaginative
+production. When we consider what she achieved in these forty-five
+months of seclusion, it is impossible to wonder that the frail and
+hectic body succumbed under so excessive a strain.
+
+She brought with her from Europe a store of knowledge that would have
+sufficed to make an English or French girl seem learned, but which in
+her case was simply miraculous. Immediately on her return she began to
+study Sanscrit with the same intense application which she gave to all
+her work, and mastering the language with extraordinary swiftness, she
+plunged into its mysterious literature. But she was born to write, and
+despairing of an audience in her own language, she began to adopt ours
+as a medium for her thought. Her first essay, published when she was
+eighteen, was a monograph, in the "Bengal Magazine," on Leconte de
+Lisle, a writer with whom she had a sympathy which is very easy to
+comprehend. The austere poet of "La Mort de Valmiki" was, obviously, a
+figure to whom the poet of "Sindhu" must needs be attracted on
+approaching European literature. This study, which was illustrated by
+translations into English verse, was followed by another on Josephin
+Soulary, in whom she saw more than her maturer judgment might have
+justified. There is something very interesting and now, alas! still more
+pathetic in these sturdy and workmanlike essays in unaided criticism.
+Still more solitary her work became, in July, 1874, when her only
+sister, Aru, died, at the age of twenty. She seems to have been no less
+amiable than her sister, and if gifted with less originality and a less
+forcible ambition, to have been finely accomplished. Both sisters were
+well-trained musicians, with full contralto voices, and Aru had a
+faculty for design which promised well. The romance of "Mlle. D'Arvers"
+was originally projected for Aru to illustrate, but no page of this book
+did Aru ever see.
+
+In 1876, as we have said, appeared that obscure first volume at
+Bhowanipore. The "Sheaf gleaned in French Fields" is certainly the most
+imperfect of Toru's writings, but it is not the least interesting. It is
+a wonderful mixture of strength and weakness, of genius overriding great
+obstacles, and of talent succumbing to ignorance and inexperience. That
+it should have been performed at all is so extraordinary that we forget
+to be surprised at its inequality. The English verse is sometimes
+exquisite; at other times the rules of our prosody are absolutely
+ignored, and it is obvious that the Hindoo poetess was chanting to
+herself a music that is discord in an English ear. The notes are no less
+curious, and to a stranger no less bewildering. Nothing could be more
+naive than the writer's ignorance at some points, or more startling than
+her learning at others. On the whole, the attainment of the book was
+simply astounding. It consisted of a selection of translations from
+nearly one hundred French poets, chosen by the poetess herself on a
+principle of her own which gradually dawned upon the careful reader. She
+eschewed the Classicist writers as though they had never existed. For
+her Andre Chenier was the next name in chronological order after Du
+Bartas. Occasionally she showed a profundity of research that would have
+done no discredit to Mr. Saintsbury or "le doux Assellineau." She was
+ready to pronounce an opinion on Napol le Pyrenean or detect a
+plagiarism in Baudelaire. But she thought that Alexander Smith was still
+alive, and she was curiously vague about the career of Sainte-Beuve.
+This inequality of equipment was a thing inevitable to her isolation,
+and hardly worthy recording, except to show how laborious her mind was,
+and how quick to make the best of small resources.
+
+We have already seen that the "Sheaf gleaned in French Fields" attracted
+the very minimum of attention in England. In France it was talked about
+a little more. M. Garcin de Tassy, the famous Orientalist, who scarcely
+survived Toru by twelve months, spoke of it to Mlle. Clarisse Bader,
+author of a somewhat remarkable book on the position of women in ancient
+Indian society. Almost simultaneously this volume fell into the hands of
+Toru, and she was moved to translate it into English, for the use of
+Hindoos less instructed than herself. In January, 1877, she accordingly
+wrote to Mlle. Bader requesting her authorization, and received a prompt
+and kind reply. On the 18th of March Toru wrote again to this, her
+solitary correspondent in the world of European literature, and her
+letter, which has been preserved, shows that she had already descended
+into the valley of the shadow of death:--
+
+     "Ma constitution n'est pas forte; j'ai contracte une toux
+     opiniatre, il y a plus de deux ans, qui ne me quitte point.
+     Cependant j'espere mettre la main a l'oeuvre bientot. Je ne peux
+     dire, mademoiselle, combien votre affection--car vous les aimez,
+     votre livre et votre lettre en temoignent assez--pour mes
+     compatriotes et mon pays me touche; et je suis fiere de pouvoir le
+     dire que les heroines de nos grandes epopees sont dignes de tout
+     honneur et de tout amour. Y a-t-il d'heroine plus touchante, plus
+     aimable que Sita? Je ne le crois pas. _Quand j'entends ma mere
+     chanter, le soir, les vieux chants de notre pays, je pleure presque
+     toujours_. La plainte de Sita, quand, bannie pour la seconde fois,
+     elle erre dans la vaste foret, seule, le desespoir et l'effroi dans
+     l'ame, est si pathetique qu'il n'y a personne, je crois, qui puisse
+     l'entendre sans verser des larmes. Je vous envois sous ce pli deux
+     petites traductions du Sanscrit, cette belle langue antique.
+     Malheureusement j'ai ete obligee de faire cesser mes traductions de
+     Sanscrit, il y a six mois. Ma sante ne me permet pas de les
+     continuer."
+
+These simple and pathetic words, in which the dying poetess pours out
+her heart to the one friend she had, and that one gained too late, seem
+as touching and as beautiful as any strain of Marceline Valmore's
+immortal verse. In English poetry I do not remember anything that
+exactly parallels their resigned melancholy. Before the month of March
+was over, Toru had taken to her bed. Unable to write, she continued to
+read, strewing her sick-room with the latest European books, and
+entering with interest into the questions raised by the Societe
+Asiatique of Paris, in its printed Transactions. On the 30th of July she
+wrote her last letter to Mlle. Clarisse Bader, and a month later, on
+August 30, 1877, at the age of twenty-one years six months and
+twenty-six days, she breathed her last in her father's house in
+Maniktollah street, Calcutta.
+
+In the first distraction of grief it seemed as though her unequalled
+promise had been entirely blighted, and as though she would be
+remembered only by her single book. But as her father examined her
+papers, one completed work after another revealed itself. First a
+selection from the sonnets of the Comte de Grammont, translated into
+English, turned up, and was printed in a Calcutta magazine; then some
+fragments of an English story, which were printed in another Calcutta
+magazine. Much more important, however, than any of these was a complete
+romance, written in French, being the identical story for which her
+sister Aru had proposed to make the illustrations. In the meantime Toru
+was no sooner dead than she began to be famous. In May, 1878, there
+appeared a second edition of the "Sheaf gleaned in French Fields," with
+a touching sketch of her death, by her father; and in 1879 was
+published, under the editorial care of Mlle. Clarisse Bader, the romance
+of "Le Journal de Mlle. D'Arvers," forming a handsome volume of 259
+pages. This book, begun, as it appears, before the family returned from
+Europe, and finished nobody knows when, is an attempt to describe scenes
+from modern French society, but it is less interesting as an experiment
+of the fancy, than as a revelation of the mind of a young Hindoo woman
+of genius. The story is simple, clearly told, and interesting; the
+studies of character have nothing French about them, but they are full
+of vigor and originality. The description of the hero is most
+characteristically Indian:--
+
+     "Il est beau en effet. Sa taille est haute, mais quelques-uns la
+     trouveraient mince; sa chevelure noire est bouclee et tombe jusqu'a
+     la nuque; ses yeux noirs sont profonds et bien fendus; le front est
+     noble; la levre superieure, couverte par une moustache naissante et
+     noire, est parfaitement modelee; son menton a quelque chose de
+     severe; son teint est d'un blanc presque feminin, ce qui denote sa
+     haute naissance."
+
+In this description we seem to recognize some Surya or Soma of Hindoo
+mythology, and the final touch, meaningless as applied to a European,
+reminds us that in India whiteness of skin has always been a sign of
+aristocratic birth, from the days when it originally distinguished the
+conquering Aryas from the indigenous race of the Dasyous.
+
+As a literary composition "Mlle. D'Arvers" deserves high commendation.
+It deals with the ungovernable passion of two brothers for one placid
+and beautiful girl, a passion which leads to fratricide and madness.
+That it is a very melancholy and tragical story is obvious from this
+brief sketch of its contents, but it is remarkable for coherence and
+self-restraint no less than for vigor of treatment. Toru Dutt never
+sinks to melodrama in the course of her extraordinary tale, and the
+wonder is that she is not more often fantastic and unreal.
+
+But we believe that the original English poems will be ultimately found
+to constitute Toru's chief legacy to posterity. These ballads form the
+last and most matured of her writings, and were left so far fragmentary
+at her death that the fourth and fifth in her projected series of nine
+were not to be discovered in any form among her papers. It is probable
+that she had not even commenced them. Her father, therefore, to give a
+certain continuity to the series, has filled up these blanks with two
+stories from the "Vishnupurana," which originally appeared respectively
+in the "Calcutta Review" and in the "Bengal Magazine." These are
+interesting, but a little rude in form, and they have not the same
+peculiar value as the rhymed octo-syllabic ballads. In these last we see
+Toru no longer attempting vainly, though heroically, to compete with
+European literature on its own ground, but turning to the legends of her
+own race and country for inspiration. No modern Oriental has given us so
+strange an insight into the conscience of the Asiatic as is presented in
+the story of "Prehiad," or so quaint a piece of religious fancy as the
+ballad of "Jogadhya Uma." The poetess seems in these verses to be
+chanting to herself those songs of her mother's race to which she always
+turned with tears of pleasure. They breathe a Vedic solemnity and
+simplicity of temper, and are singularly devoid of that littleness and
+frivolity which seem, if we may judge by a slight experience, to be the
+bane of modern India.
+
+As to the merely technical character of these poems, it may be suggested
+that in spite of much in them that is rough and inchoate, they show that
+Toru was advancing in her mastery of English verse. Such a stanza as
+this, selected out of many no less skilful, could hardly be recognized
+as the work of one by whom the language was a late acquirement:--
+
+    "What glorious trees! The sombre saul,
+      On which the eye delights to rest--
+    The betel-nut, a pillar tall,
+      With feathery branches for a crest--
+    The light-leaved tamarind spreading wide--
+      The pale faint-scented bitter neem,
+    The seemul, gorgeous as a bride,
+      With flowers that have the ruby's gleam."
+
+In other passages, of course, the text reads like a translation from
+some stirring ballad, and we feel that it gives but a faint and
+discordant echo of the music welling in Toru's brain. For it must
+frankly be confessed that in the brief May-day of her existence she had
+not time to master our language as Blanco White did, or as Chamisso
+mastered German. To the end of her days, fluent and graceful as she was,
+she was not entirely conversant with English, especially with the
+colloquial turns of modern speech. Often a very fine thought is spoiled
+for hypercritical ears by the queer turn of expression which she has
+innocently given to it. These faults are found to a much smaller degree
+in her miscellaneous poems. Her sonnets seem to me to be of great
+beauty, and her longer piece, entitled "Our Casuarina Tree," needs no
+apology for its rich and mellifluous numbers.
+
+It is difficult to exaggerate when we try to estimate what we have lost
+in the premature death of Toru Dutt. Literature has no honors which need
+have been beyond the grasp of a girl who at the age of twenty-one, and
+in languages separated from her own by so deep a chasm, had produced so
+much of lasting worth. And her courage and fortitude were worthy of her
+intelligence. Among "last words" of celebrated people, that which her
+father has recorded, "It is only the physical pain that makes me cry,"
+is not the least remarkable, or the least significant of strong
+character. It was to a native of our island, and to one ten years senior
+to Toru, to whom it was said, in words more appropriate, surely, to her
+than to Oldham,
+
+    "Thy generous fruits, though gathered ere their prime,
+    Still showed a quickness, and maturing time
+    But mellows what we write to the dull sweets of Rime."
+
+That mellow sweetness was all that Toru lacked to perfect her as an
+English poet, and of no other Oriental who has ever lived can the same
+be said. When the history of the literature of our country comes to be
+written, there is sure to be a page in it dedicated to this fragile
+exotic blossom of song.
+
+EDMUND W. GOSSE.
+
+_London, 1881_.
+
+
+
+
+BALLADS OF HINDOSTAN
+
+JOGADHYA UMA
+
+
+    "Shell-bracelets ho! Shell-bracelets ho!
+      Fair maids and matrons come and buy!"
+    Along the road, in morning's glow,
+      The pedler raised his wonted cry.
+    The road ran straight, a red, red line,
+      To Khirogram, for cream renowned,
+    Through pasture-meadows where the kine,
+      In knee-deep grass, stood magic bound
+    And half awake, involved in mist,
+      That floated in dun coils profound,
+    Till by the sudden sunbeams kissed
+      Rich rainbow hues broke all around.
+
+    "Shell-bracelets ho! Shell-bracelets ho!"
+      The roadside trees still dripped with dew,
+    And hung their blossoms like a show.
+      Who heard the cry? 'Twas but a few,
+    A ragged herd-boy, here and there,
+      With his long stick and naked feet;
+    A ploughman wending to his care,
+      The field from which he hopes the wheat;
+    An early traveller, hurrying fast
+      To the next town; an urchin slow
+    Bound for the school; these heard and passed,
+      Unheeding all--"Shell-bracelets ho!"
+
+    Pellucid spread a lake-like tank
+      Beside the road now lonelier still,
+    High on three sides arose the bank
+      Which fruit-trees shadowed at their will;
+    Upon the fourth side was the Ghat,
+      With its broad stairs of marble white,
+    And at the entrance-arch there sat,
+      Full face against the morning light,
+    A fair young woman with large eyes,
+      And dark hair falling to her zone,
+    She heard the pedler's cry arise,
+      And eager seemed his ware to own.
+
+    "Shell-bracelets ho! See, maiden see!
+      The rich enamel sunbeam kissed!
+    Happy, oh happy, shalt thou be,
+      Let them but clasp that slender wrist;
+    These bracelets are a mighty charm,
+      They keep a lover ever true,
+    And widowhood avert, and harm,
+      Buy them, and thou shalt never rue.
+    Just try them on!"--She stretched her hand,
+      "Oh what a nice and lovely fit!
+    No fairer hand, in all the land,
+      And lo! the bracelet matches it."
+
+    Dazzled the pedler on her gazed
+      Till came the shadow of a fear,
+    While she the bracelet arm upraised
+      Against the sun to view more clear.
+    Oh she was lovely, but her look
+      Had something of a high command
+    That filled with awe. Aside she shook
+      Intruding curls by breezes fanned
+    And blown across her brows and face,
+      And asked the price, which when she heard
+    She nodded, and with quiet grace
+      For payment to her home referred.
+
+    "And where, O maiden, is thy house?
+      But no, that wrist-ring has a tongue,
+    No maiden art thou, but a spouse,
+      Happy, and rich, and fair, and young."
+    "Far otherwise, my lord is poor,
+      And him at home thou shalt not find;
+    Ask for my father; at the door
+      Knock loudly; he is deaf, but kind.
+    Seest thou that lofty gilded spire
+      Above these tufts of foliage green?
+    That is our place; its point of fire
+      Will guide thee o'er the tract between."
+
+    "That is the temple spire."--"Yes, there
+      We live; my father is the priest,
+    The manse is near, a building fair
+      But lowly, to the temple's east.
+    When thou hast knocked, and seen him, say,
+      His daughter, at Dhamaser Ghat,
+    Shell-bracelets bought from thee to-day,
+      And he must pay so much for that.
+    Be sure, he will not let thee pass
+      Without the value, and a meal.
+    If he demur, or cry alas!
+      No money hath he--then reveal,
+
+    Within the small box, marked with streaks
+      Of bright vermilion, by the shrine,
+    The key whereof has lain for weeks
+      Untouched, he'll find some coin--'tis mine.
+    That will enable him to pay
+      The bracelet's price, now fare thee well!"
+    She spoke, the pedler went away,
+      Charmed with her voice, as by some spell;
+    While she left lonely there, prepared
+      To plunge into the water pure,
+    And like a rose her beauty bared,
+      From all observance quite secure.
+
+    Not weak she seemed, nor delicate,
+      Strong was each limb of flexile grace,
+    And full the bust; the mien elate,
+      Like hers, the goddess of the chase
+    On Latmos hill--and oh, the face
+      Framed in its cloud of floating hair,
+    No painter's hand might hope to trace
+      The beauty and the glory there!
+    Well might the pedler look with awe,
+      For though her eyes were soft, a ray
+    Lit them at times, which kings who saw
+      Would never dare to disobey.
+
+    Onwards through groves the pedler sped
+      Till full in front the sunlit spire
+    Arose before him. Paths which led
+      To gardens trim in gay attire
+    Lay all around. And lo! the manse,
+      Humble but neat with open door!
+    He paused, and blest the lucky chance
+      That brought his bark to such a shore.
+    Huge straw ricks, log huts full of grain,
+      Sleek cattle, flowers, a tinkling bell,
+    Spoke in a language sweet and plain,
+      "Here smiling Peace and Plenty dwell."
+
+    Unconsciously he raised his cry,
+      "Shell-bracelets ho!" And at his voice
+    Looked out the priest, with eager eye,
+      And made his heart at once rejoice.
+    "Ho, _Sankha_ pedler! Pass not by,
+      But step thou in, and share the food
+    Just offered on our altar high,
+      If thou art in a hungry mood.
+    Welcome are all to this repast!
+      The rich and poor, the high and low!
+    Come, wash thy feet, and break thy fast,
+      Then on thy journey strengthened go."
+
+    "Oh thanks, good priest! Observance due
+      And greetings! May thy name be blest!
+    I came on business, but I knew,
+      Here might be had both food and rest
+    Without a charge; for all the poor
+      Ten miles around thy sacred shrine
+    Know that thou keepest open door,
+      And praise that generous hand of thine:
+    But let my errand first be told,
+      For bracelets sold to thine this day,
+    So much thou owest me in gold,
+      Hast thou the ready cash to pay?
+
+    The bracelets were enamelled--so
+      The price is high."--"How! Sold to mine?
+    Who bought them, I should like to know."
+      "Thy daughter, with the large black eyne,
+    Now bathing at the marble ghat."
+      Loud laughed the priest at this reply,
+    "I shall not put up, friend, with that;
+      No daughter in the world have I,
+    An only son is all my stay;
+      Some minx has played a trick, no doubt,
+    But cheer up, let thy heart be gay.
+      Be sure that I shall find her out."
+
+    "Nay, nay, good father, such a face
+      Could not deceive, I must aver;
+    At all events, she knows thy place,
+      'And if my father should demur
+    To pay thee'--thus she said--'or cry
+      He has no money, tell him straight
+    The box vermilion-streaked to try,
+      That's near the shrine,'" "Well, wait, friend, wait!"
+    The priest said thoughtful, and he ran
+      And with the open box came back,
+    "Here is the price exact, my man,
+      No surplus over, and no lack.
+
+    How strange! how strange! Oh blest art thou
+      To have beheld her, touched her hand,
+    Before whom Vishnu's self must bow,
+      And Brahma and his heavenly band!
+    Here have I worshipped her for years
+      And never seen the vision bright;
+    Vigils and fasts and secret tears
+      Have almost quenched my outward sight;
+    And yet that dazzling form and face
+      I have not seen, and thou, dear friend,
+    To thee, unsought for, comes the grace,
+      What may its purport be, and end?
+
+    How strange! How strange! Oh happy thou!
+      And couldst thou ask no other boon
+    Than thy poor bracelet's price? That brow
+      Resplendent as the autumn moon
+    Must have bewildered thee, I trow,
+      And made thee lose thy senses all."
+    A dim light on the pedler now
+      Began to dawn; and he let fall
+    His bracelet basket in his haste,
+      And backward ran the way he came;
+    What meant the vision fair and chaste,
+      Whose eyes were they--those eyes of flame?
+
+    Swift ran the pedler as a hind,
+      The old priest followed on his trace,
+    They reached the Ghat but could not find
+      The lady of the noble face.
+    The birds were silent in the wood,
+      The lotus flowers exhaled a smell
+    Faint, over all the solitude,
+      A heron as a sentinel
+    Stood by the bank. They called--in vain,
+      No answer came from hill or fell,
+    The landscape lay in slumber's chain,
+      E'en Echo slept within her cell.
+
+    Broad sunshine, yet a hush profound!
+      They turned with saddened hearts to go;
+    Then from afar there came a sound
+      Of silver bells;--the priest said low,
+    "O Mother, Mother, deign to hear,
+      The worship-hour has rung; we wait
+    In meek humility and fear.
+      Must we return home desolate?
+    Oh come, as late thou cam'st unsought,
+      Or was it but an idle dream?
+    Give us some sign if it was not,
+      A word, a breath, or passing gleam."
+
+    Sudden from out the water sprung
+      A rounded arm, on which they saw
+    As high the lotus buds among
+      It rose, the bracelet white, with awe.
+    Then a wide ripple tost and swung
+      The blossoms on that liquid plain,
+    And lo! the arm so fair and young
+      Sank in the waters down again.
+    They bowed before the mystic Power,
+      And as they home returned in thought,
+    Each took from thence a lotus flower
+      In memory of the day and spot.
+
+    Years, centuries, have passed away,
+      And still before the temple shrine
+    Descendants of the pedler pay
+      Shell-bracelets of the old design
+    As annual tribute. Much they own
+      In lands and gold--but they confess
+    From that eventful day alone
+      Dawned on their industry--success.
+    Absurd may be the tale I tell,
+      Ill-suited to the marching times,
+    I loved the lips from which it fell,
+      So let it stand among my rhymes.
+
+
+
+
+BUTTOO
+
+
+    "Ho! Master of the wondrous art!
+    Instruct me in fair archery,
+    And buy for aye--a grateful heart
+    That will not grudge to give thy fee."
+    Thus spoke a lad with kindling eyes,
+    A hunter's lowborn son was he--
+    To Dronacharjya, great and wise,
+    Who sat with princes round his knee.
+
+    Up Time's fair stream far back--oh far,
+    The great wise teacher must be sought!
+    The Kurus had not yet in war
+    With the Pandava brethren fought.
+    In peace, at Dronacharjya's feet,
+    Magic and archery they learned,
+    A complex science, which we meet
+    No more, with ages past inurned.
+
+    "And who art thou," the teacher said,
+    "My science brave to learn so fain?
+    Which many kings who wear the thread
+    Have asked to learn of me in vain."
+    "My name is Buttoo," said the youth,
+    "A hunter's son, I know not Fear;"
+    The teacher answered, smiling smooth,
+    "Then know him from this time, my dear."
+
+    Unseen the magic arrow came,
+    Amidst the laughter and the scorn
+    Of royal youths--like lightning flame
+    Sudden and sharp. They blew the horn,
+    As down upon the ground he fell,
+    Not hurt, but made a jest and game;--
+    He rose--and waved a proud farewell,
+    But cheek and brow grew red with shame.
+
+    And lo--a single, single tear
+    Dropped from his eyelash as he past,
+    "My place I gather is not here;
+    No matter--what is rank or caste?
+    In us is honor, or disgrace,
+    Not out of us," 'twas thus he mused,
+    "The question is--not wealth or place,
+    But gifts well used, or gifts abused."
+
+    "And I shall do my best to gain
+    The science that man will not teach,
+    For life is as a shadow vain,
+    Until the utmost goal we reach
+    To which the soul points. I shall try
+    To realize my waking dream,
+    And what if I should chance to die?
+    None miss one bubble from a stream."
+
+    So thinking, on and on he went,
+    Till he attained the forest's verge,
+    The garish day was well-nigh spent,
+    Birds had already raised its dirge.
+    Oh what a scene! How sweet and calm!
+    It soothed at once his wounded pride,
+    And on his spirit shed a balm
+    That all its yearnings purified.
+
+    What glorious trees! The sombre saul
+    On which the eye delights to rest,
+    The betel-nut--a pillar tall,
+    With feathery branches for a crest,
+    The light-leaved tamarind spreading wide,
+    The pale faint-scented bitter neem,
+    The seemul, gorgeous as a bride,
+    With flowers that have the ruby's gleam,
+
+    The Indian fig's pavilion tent
+    In which whole armies might repose,
+    With here and there a little rent,
+    The sunset's beauty to disclose,
+    The bamboo boughs that sway and swing
+    'Neath bulbuls as the south wind blows,
+    The mango-tope, a close dark ring,
+    Home of the rooks and clamorous crows,
+
+    The champac, bok, and South-sea pine,
+    The nagessur with pendant flowers
+    Like ear-rings--and the forest vine
+    That clinging over all, embowers,
+    The sirish famed in Sanscrit song
+    Which rural maidens love to wear,
+    The peepul giant-like and strong,
+    The bramble with its matted hair,
+
+    All these, and thousands, thousands more,
+    With helmet red, or golden crown,
+    Or green tiara, rose before
+    The youth in evening's shadows brown.
+    He passed into the forest--there
+    New sights of wonder met his view,
+    A waving Pampas green and fair
+    All glistening with the evening dew.
+
+    How vivid was the breast-high grass!
+    Here waved in patches, forest corn--
+    Here intervened a deep morass--
+    Here arid spots of verdure shorn
+    Lay open--rock or barren sand--
+    And here again the trees arose
+    Thick clustering--a glorious band
+    Their tops still bright with sunset glows.--
+
+    Stirred in the breeze the crowding boughs,
+    And seemed to welcome him with signs,
+    Onwards and on--till Buttoo's brows
+    Are gemmed with pearls, and day declines.
+    Then in a grassy open space
+    He sits and leans against a tree,
+    To let the wind blow on his face
+    And look around him leisurely.
+
+    Herds, and still herds, of timid deer
+    Were feeding in the solitude,
+    They knew not man, and felt no fear,
+    And heeded not his neighborhood,
+    Some young ones with large eyes and sweet
+    Came close, and rubbed their foreheads smooth
+    Against his arms, and licked his feet,
+    As if they wished his cares to soothe.
+
+    "They touch me," he exclaimed with joy,
+    "They have no pride of caste like men,
+    They shrink not from the hunter-boy,
+    Should not my home be with them then?
+    Here in this forest let me dwell,
+    With these companions innocent,
+    And learn each science and each spell
+    All by myself in banishment.
+
+    A calm, calm life, and it shall be
+    Its own exceeding great reward!
+    No thoughts to vex in all I see,
+    No jeers to bear or disregard;--
+    All creatures and inanimate things
+    Shall be my tutors; I shall learn
+    From beast, and fish, and bird with wings,
+    And rock, and stream, and tree, and fern.
+
+    With this resolve, he soon began
+    To build a hut, of reeds and leaves,
+    And when that needful work was done
+    He gathered in his store, the sheaves
+    Of forest corn, and all the fruit,
+    Date, plum, guava, he could find,
+    And every pleasant nut and root
+    By Providence for man designed,
+
+    A statue next of earth he made,
+    An image of the teacher wise,
+    So deft he laid, the light and shade,
+    On figure, forehead, face and eyes,
+    That any one who chanced to view
+    That image tall might soothly swear,
+    If he great Dronacharjya knew,
+    The teacher in his flesh was there.
+
+    Then at the statue's feet he placed
+    A bow, and arrows tipped with steel,
+    With wild-flower garlands interlaced,
+    And hailed the figure in his zeal
+    As Master, and his head he bowed,
+    A pupil reverent from that hour
+    Of one who late had disallowed
+    The claim, in pride of place and power.
+
+    By strained sense, by constant prayer,
+    By steadfastness of heart and will,
+    By courage to confront and dare,
+    All obstacles he conquered still;
+    A conscience clear--a ready hand,
+    Joined to a meek humility,
+    Success must everywhere command,
+    How could he fail who had all three!
+
+    And now, by tests assured, he knows
+    His own God-gifted wondrous might,
+    Nothing to any man he owes,
+    Unaided he has won the fight;
+    Equal to gods themselves--above
+    Wishmo and Drona--for his worth
+    His name, he feels, shall be with love
+    Reckoned with great names of the earth.
+
+    Yet lacks he not, in reverence
+    To Dronacharjya, who declined
+    To teach him--nay, with e'en offence
+    That well might wound a noble mind,
+    Drove him away;--for in his heart
+    Meek, placable, and ever kind,
+    Resentment had not any part,
+    And Malice never was enshrined.
+
+    One evening, on his work intent,
+    Alone he practised Archery,
+    When lo! the bow proved false and sent
+    The arrow from its mark awry;
+    Again he tried--and failed again;
+    Why was it? Hark!--A wild dog's bark!
+    An evil omen:--it was plain
+    Some evil on his path hung dark!
+
+    Thus many times he tried and failed,
+    And still that lean, persistent dog
+    At distance, like some spirit wailed,
+    Safe in the cover of a fog.
+    His nerves unstrung, with many a shout
+    He strove to frighten it away,
+    It would not go--but roamed about,
+    Howling, as wolves howl for their prey.
+
+    Worried and almost in a rage,
+    One magic shaft at last he sent,
+    A sample of his science sage,
+    To quiet but the noises meant.
+    Unerring to its goal it flew,
+    No death ensued, no blood was dropped;
+    But by the hush the young man knew
+    At last that howling noise had stopped.
+
+    It happened on this very day
+    That the Pandava princes came
+    With all the Kuru princes gay
+    To beat the woods and hunt the game.
+    Parted from others in the chase,
+    Arjuna brave the wild dog found--
+    Stuck still the shaft--but not a trace
+    Of hurt, though tongue and lip were bound.
+
+    "Wonder of wonders! Didst not thou
+    O Dronacharjya, promise me
+    Thy crown in time should deck my brow
+    And I be first in archery?
+    Lo! here, some other thou hast taught
+    A magic spell--to all unknown;
+    Who has in secret from thee bought
+    The knowledge, in this arrow shown!"
+
+    Indignant thus Arjuna spake
+    To his great Master when they met--
+    "My word, my honor, is at stake,
+    Judge not, Arjuna, judge not yet.
+    Come, let us see the dog "--and straight
+    They followed up the creature's trace.
+    They found it, in the self-same state,
+    Dumb, yet unhurt--near Buttoo's place.
+
+    A hut--_a_ statue--and a youth
+    In the dim forest--what mean these?
+    They gazed in wonder, for in sooth
+    The thing seemed full of mysteries.
+    "Now who art thou that dar'st to raise
+    Mine image in the wilderness?
+    Is it for worship and for praise?
+    What is thine object? speak, confess,"
+
+    "Oh Master, unto thee I came
+    To learn thy science. Name or pelf
+    I had not, so was driven with shame,
+    And here I learn all by myself.
+    But still as Master thee revere,
+    For who so great in archery!
+    Lo, all my inspiration here,
+    And all my knowledge is from thee."
+
+    "If I am Master, now thou hast
+    Finished thy course, give me my due.
+    Let all the past, be dead and past,
+    Henceforth be ties between us new."
+    "All that I have, O Master mine,
+    All I shall conquer by my skill,
+    Gladly shall I to thee resign,
+    Let me but know thy gracious will,"
+
+    "Is it a promise?" "Yea, I swear
+    So long as I have breath and life
+    To give thee all thou wilt," "Beware!
+    Rash promise ever ends in strife."
+    "Thou art my Master--ask! oh ask!
+    From thee my inspiration came,
+    Thou canst not set too hard a task,
+    Nor aught refuse I, free from blame."
+
+    "If it be so--Arjuna hear!"
+    Arjuna and the youth were dumb,
+    "For thy sake, loud I ask and clear,
+    Give me, O youth, thy right-hand thumb.
+    I promised in my faithfulness
+    No equal ever shall there be
+    To thee, Arjuna--and I press
+    For this sad recompense--for thee."
+
+    Glanced the sharp knife one moment high,
+    The severed thumb was on the sod,
+    There was no tear in Buttoo's eye,
+    He left the matter with his God.
+    "For this"--said Dronacharjya--"Fame
+    Shall sound thy praise from sea to sea,
+    And men shall ever link thy name
+    With Self-help, Truth, and Modesty."
+
+
+
+
+SINDHU
+
+PART I
+
+
+    Deep in the forest shades there dwelt
+      A _Muni_ and his wife,
+    Blind, gray-haired, weak, they hourly felt
+      Their slender hold on life.
+
+    No friends had they, no help or stay,
+      Except an only boy,
+    A bright-eyed child, his laughter gay,
+      Their leaf-hut filled with joy.
+
+    Attentive, duteous, loving, kind,
+      Thoughtful, sedate, and calm,
+    He waited on his parents blind,
+      Whose days were like a psalm.
+
+    He roamed the woods for luscious fruits,
+      He brought them water pure,
+    He cooked their simple mess of roots,
+      Content to live obscure.
+
+    To fretful questions, answers mild
+      He meekly ever gave,
+    If they reproved, he only smiled,
+      He loved to be their slave.
+
+    Not that to him they were austere,
+      But age is peevish still,
+    Dear to their hearts he was--so dear,
+      That none his place might fill.
+    They called him Sindhu, and his name
+      Was ever on their tongue,
+    And he, nor cared for wealth nor fame,
+      Who dwelt his own among.
+
+    A belt of _Bela_-trees hemmed round
+      The cottage small and rude,
+    If peace on earth was ever found
+      'Twas in that solitude.
+
+
+
+
+PART II
+
+
+    Great Dasarath, the King of Oudh,
+      Whom all men love and fear,
+    With elephants and horses proud
+      Went forth to hunt the deer.
+
+    O gallant was the long array!
+      Pennons and plumes were seen,
+    And swords that mirrored back the day,
+      And spears and axes keen.
+
+    Rang trump, and conch, and piercing fife,
+      Woke Echo from her bed!
+    The solemn woods with sounds were rife
+      As on the pageant sped.
+
+    Hundreds, nay thousands, on they went!
+      The wild beasts fled away!
+    Deer ran in herds, and wild boars spent
+      Became an easy prey.
+
+    Whirring the peacocks from the brake
+      With Argus wings arose,
+    Wild swans abandoned pool and lake
+      For climes beyond the snows.
+
+    From tree to tree the monkeys sprung,
+      Unharmed and unpursued,
+    As louder still the trumpets rung
+      And startled all the wood.
+
+    The porcupines and such small game
+      Unnoted fled at will,
+    The weasel only caught to tame
+      From fissures in the hill.
+
+    Slunk light the tiger from the bank,
+      But sudden turned to bay!
+    When he beheld the serried rank
+      That barred his tangled way.
+    Uprooting fig-trees on their path,
+      And trampling shrubs and flowers,
+    Wild elephants, in fear and wrath,
+      Burst through, like moving towers.
+
+    Lowering their horns in crescents grim
+      Whene'er they turned about,
+    Retreated into coverts dim
+      The bisons' fiercer rout.
+
+    And in this mimic game of war
+      In bands dispersed and passed
+    The royal train--some near, some far,
+      As day closed in at last.
+
+    Where was the king? He left his friends
+      At mid-day, it was known,
+    And now that evening fast descends
+      Where was he? All alone.
+
+    Curving, the river formed a lake,
+      Upon whose bank he stood, I
+    No noise the silence there to break,
+      Or mar the solitude.
+
+    Upon the glassy surface fell
+      The last beams of the day,
+    Like fiery darts, that lengthening swell,
+      As breezes wake and play.
+
+    Osiers and willows on the edge
+      And purple buds and red,
+    Leant down--and 'mid the pale green sedge
+      The lotus raised its head.
+
+    And softly, softly, hour by hour
+      Light faded, and a veil
+    Fell over tree, and wave, and flower,
+      On came the twilight pale.
+
+    Deeper and deeper grew the shades,
+      Stars glimmered in the sky,
+    The nightingale along the glades
+      Raised her preluding cry.
+    What is that momentary flash?
+      A gleam of silver scales
+    Reveals the _Mahseer_;--then a splash,
+      And calm again prevails.
+
+    As darkness settled like a pall
+      The eye would pierce in vain,
+    The fireflies gemmed the bushes all,
+      Like fiery drops of rain.
+
+    Pleased with the scene--and knowing not
+      Which way, alas! to go,
+    The monarch lingered on the spot--
+      The lake spread bright below.
+
+    He lingered, when--oh hark! oh hark
+      What sound salutes his ear!
+    A roebuck drinking in the dark,
+      Not hunted, nor in fear.
+
+    Straight to the stretch his bow he drew,
+      That bow ne'er missed its aim,
+    Whizzing the deadly arrow flew,
+      Ear-guided, on the game!
+
+    Ah me! What means this?--Hark, a cry,
+      A feeble human wail,
+    "Oh God!" it said--"I die--I die,
+      Who'll carry home the pail?"
+
+    Startled, the monarch forward ran,
+      And then there met his view
+    A sight to freeze in any man
+      The warm blood coursing true.
+
+    A child lay dying on the grass,
+      A pitcher by his side,
+    Poor Sindhu was the child, alas!
+      His parents' stay and pride.
+
+    His bow and quiver down to fling,
+      And lift the wounded boy,
+    A moment's work was with the king.
+      Not dead--that was a joy!
+    He placed the child's head on his lap,
+      And 'ranged the blinding hair,
+    The blood welled fearful from the gap
+      On neck and bosom fair.
+
+    He dashed cold water on the face,
+      He chafed the hands, with sighs,
+    Till sense revived, and he could trace
+      Expression in the eyes.
+
+    Then mingled with his pity, fear--
+      In all this universe
+    What is so dreadful as to hear
+      A Brahman's dying curse!
+
+    So thought the king, and on his brow
+      The beads of anguish spread,
+    And Sindhu, fully conscious now,
+      The anguish plainly read.
+
+    "What dost thou fear, O mighty king?
+      For sure a king thou art!
+    Why should thy bosom anguish wring?
+      No crime was in thine heart!
+
+    Unwittingly the deed was done;
+      It is my destiny,
+    O fear not thou, but pity one
+      Whose fate is thus to die.
+
+    No curses, no!--I bear no grudge,
+      Not thou my blood hast spilt,
+    Lo! here before the unseen Judge,
+      Thee I absolve from guilt.
+
+    The iron, red-hot as it burns,
+      Burns those that touch it too,
+    Not such my nature--for it spurns,
+      Thank God, the like to do.
+
+    Because I suffer, should I give
+      Thee, king, a needless pain?
+    Ah, no! I die, but may'st thou live,
+      And cleansed from every stain!"
+    Struck with these words, and doubly grieved
+      At what his hands had done,
+    The monarch wept, as weeps bereaved
+      A man his only son.
+
+    "Nay, weep not so," resumed the child,
+      "But rather let me say
+    My own sad story, sin-defiled,
+      And why I die to-day!
+
+    Picking a living in our sheaves,
+      And happy in their loves,
+    Near, 'mid a peepul's quivering leaves,
+      There lived a pair of doves.
+
+    Never were they two separate,
+      And lo, in idle mood,
+    I took a sling and ball, elate
+      In wicked sport and rude--
+
+    And killed one bird--it was the male,
+      Oh cruel deed and base!
+    The female gave a plaintive wail
+      And looked me in the face!
+
+    The wail and sad reproachful look
+      In plain words seemed to say,
+    A widowed life I cannot brook,
+      The forfeit thou must pay.
+
+    What was my darling's crime that thou
+      Him wantonly shouldst kill?
+    The curse of blood is on thee now,
+      Blood calls for red blood still.
+
+    And so I die--a bloody death--
+      But not for this I mourn,
+    To feel the world pass with my breath
+      I gladly could have borne,
+
+    But for my parents, who are blind,
+      And have no other stay--
+    This, this, weighs sore upon my mind,
+      And fills me with dismay.
+
+    Upon the eleventh day of the moon
+      They keep a rigorous fast,
+    All yesterday they fasted; soon
+      For water and repast
+
+    They shall upon me feebly call!
+      Ah, must they call in vain?
+    Bear thou the pitcher, friend--'tis all
+      I ask--down that steep lane."
+
+    He pointed--ceased--then sudden died!
+      The king took up the corpse,
+    And with the pitcher slowly hied,
+      Attended by Remorse,
+
+    Down the steep lane--unto the hut
+      Girt round with _Bela_-trees;
+    Gleamed far a light--the door not shut
+      Was open to the breeze.
+
+
+
+
+PART III
+
+
+    "Oh why does not our child return?
+      Too long he surely stays."--
+    Thus to the _Muni_, blind and stern,
+      His partner gently says.
+
+    "For fruits and water when he goes
+      He never stays so long,
+    Oh can it be, beset by foes,
+      He suffers cruel wrong?
+
+    Some distance he has gone, I fear,
+      A more circuitous round--
+    Yet why should he? The fruits are near,
+      The river near our bound.
+
+    I die of thirst--it matters not
+      If Sindhu be but safe,
+    What if he leave us, and this spot,
+      Poor birds in cages chafe.
+
+    Peevish and fretful oft we are--
+      Ah, no--that cannot be:
+    Of our blind eyes he is the star,
+      Without him, what were we?
+
+    Too much he loves us to forsake,
+      But something ominous,
+    Here in my heart, a dreadful ache,
+      Says, he is gone from us.
+
+    Why do my bowels for him yearn,
+      What ill has crossed his path?
+    Blind, helpless, whither shall we turn,
+      Or how avert the wrath?
+
+    Lord of my soul--what means my pain?
+      This horrid terror--like
+    Some cloud that hides a hurricane;
+      Hang not, O lightning--strike!"
+
+    Thus while she spake, the king drew near
+      With haggard look and wild,
+    Weighed down with grief, and pale with fear,
+      Bearing the lifeless child.
+
+    Rustled the dry leaves 'neath his foot,
+      And made an eerie sound,
+    A neighboring owl began to hoot,
+      All else was still around.
+
+    At the first rustle of the leaves
+      The _Muni_ answered clear,
+    "Lo, here he is--oh wherefore grieves
+      Thy soul, my partner dear?"
+
+    The words distinct, the monarch heard,
+      He could no further go,
+    His nature to its depths was stirred,
+      He stopped in speechless woe.
+
+    No steps advanced--the sudden pause
+      Attention quickly drew,
+    Rolled sightless orbs to learn the cause,
+      But, hark!--the steps renew.
+
+    "Where art thou, darling--why so long
+      Hast thou delayed to-night?
+    We die of thirst--we are not strong,
+      This fasting kills outright.
+
+    Speak to us, dear one--only speak,
+      And calm our idle fears,
+    Where hast thou been, and what to seek?
+      Have pity on these tears."
+
+    With head bent low the monarch heard,
+      Then came a cruel throb
+    That tore his heart--still not a word,
+      Only a stifled sob!
+
+    "It is not Sindhu--who art thou?
+      And where is Sindhu gone?
+    There's blood upon thy hands--avow!"
+      "There is."--"Speak on, speak on,"
+
+    The dead child in their arms he placed,
+      And briefly told his tale,
+    The parents their dead child embraced,
+      And kissed his forehead pale.
+
+    "Our hearts are broken. Come, dear wife,
+      On earth no more we dwell;
+    Now welcome Death, and farewell Life,
+      And thou, O king, farewell!
+
+    We do not curse thee, God forbid
+      But to my inner eye
+    The future is no longer hid,
+      Thou too shalt like us die.
+
+    Die--for a son's untimely loss!
+      Die--with a broken heart!
+    Now help us to our bed of moss,
+      And let us both depart."
+
+    Upon the moss he laid them down,
+      And watched beside the bed;
+    Death gently came and placed a crown
+      Upon each reverend head.
+
+    Where the Sarayu's waves dash free
+      Against a rocky bank,
+    The monarch had the corpses three
+      Conveyed by men of rank;
+
+    There honored he with royal pomp
+      Their funeral obsequies--
+    Incense and sandal, drum and tromp.
+      And solemn sacrifice.
+
+    What is the sequel of the tale?
+      How died the king?--Oh man,
+    A prophet's words can never fail--
+      Go, read the Ramayan.
+
+
+
+
+MISCELLANEOUS POEMS
+
+
+NEAR HASTINGS
+
+
+    Near Hastings, on the shingle-beach,
+      We loitered at the time
+    When ripens on the wall the peach,
+      The autumn's lovely prime.
+    Far off--the sea and sky seemed blent,
+      The day was wholly done,
+    The distant town its murmurs sent,
+      Strangers--we were alone.
+
+    We wandered slow; sick, weary, faint,
+      Then one of us sat down,
+    No nature hers, to make complaint;--
+      The shadows deepened brown.
+    A lady past--she was not young,
+      But oh! her gentle face
+    No painter-poet ever sung,
+      Or saw such saintlike grace.
+
+    She passed us--then she came again,
+      Observing at a glance
+    That we were strangers; one, in pain--
+      Then asked--Were we from France?
+    We talked awhile--some roses red
+      That seemed as wet with tears,
+    She gave my sister, and she said,
+      God bless you both, my dears!"
+
+    Sweet were the roses--sweet and full,
+      And large as lotus flowers
+    That in our own wide tanks we cull
+      To deck our Indian bowers.
+    But sweeter was the love that gave
+      Those flowers to one unknown,
+    I think that He who came to save
+      The gift a debt will own.
+
+    The lady's name I do not know,
+      Her face no more may see,
+    But yet, oh yet I love her so!
+      Blest, happy, may she be!
+    Her memory will not depart,
+      Though grief my years should shade,
+    Still bloom her roses in my heart!
+      And they shall never fade!
+
+
+FRANCE
+
+_1870_
+
+    Not dead--oh no--she cannot die!
+      Only a swoon, from loss of blood!
+    Levite England passes her by,
+    Help, Samaritan! None is nigh;
+      Who shall staunch me this sanguine flood?
+
+    'Range the brown hair, it blinds her eyne,
+      Dash cold water over her face!
+    Drowned in her blood, she makes no sign,
+    Give her a draught of generous wine.
+      None heed, none hear, to do this grace.
+
+    Head of the human column, thus
+      Ever in swoon wilt thou remain?
+    Thought, Freedom, Truth, quenched ominous
+    Whence then shall Hope arise for us,
+      Plunged in the darkness all again.
+
+    No, she stirs!--There's a fire in her glance,
+      Ware, oh ware of that broken sword!
+    What, dare ye for an hour's mischance,
+    Gather around her, jeering France,
+      Attila's own exultant horde?
+
+    Lo, she stands up--stands up e'en now,
+      Strong once more for the battle-fray,
+    Gleams bright the star, that from her brow
+    Lightens the world. Bow, nations, bow,
+      Let her again lead on the way!
+
+
+THE TREE OF LIFE
+
+    Broad daylight, with a sense of weariness!
+    Mine eyes were closed, but I was not asleep,
+    My hand was in my father's, and I felt
+    His presence near me. Thus we often passed
+    In silence, hour by hour. What was the need
+    Of interchanging words when every thought
+    That in our hearts arose, was known to each,
+    And every pulse kept time? Suddenly there shone
+    A strange light, and the scene as sudden changed.
+    I was awake:--It was an open plain
+    Illimitable--stretching, stretching--oh, so far!
+    And o'er it that strange light--a glorious light
+    Like that the stars shed over fields of snow
+    In a clear, cloudless, frosty winter night,
+    Only intenser in its brilliance calm.
+    And in the midst of that vast plain, I saw,
+    For I was wide awake--it was no dream,
+    A tree with spreading branches and with leaves
+    Of divers kinds--dead silver and live gold,
+    Shimmering in radiance that no words may tell!
+    Beside the tree an Angel stood; he plucked
+    A few small sprays, and bound them round my head.
+    Oh, the delicious touch of those strange leaves!
+    No longer throbbed my brows, no more I felt
+    The fever in my limbs--"And oh," I cried,
+    "Bind too my father's forehead with these leaves."
+    One leaf the Angel took and therewith touched
+    His forehead, and then gently whispered "Nay!"
+    Never, oh never had I seen a face
+    More beautiful than that Angel's, or more full
+    Of holy pity and of love divine.
+    Wondering I looked awhile--then, all at once
+    Opened my tear-dimmed eyes--When lo! the light
+    Was gone--the light as of the stars when snow
+    Lies deep upon the ground. No more, no more,
+    Was seen the Angel's face. I only found
+    My father watching patient by my bed,
+    And holding in his own, close-prest, my hand.
+
+
+MADAME THERESE
+
+_Written on the fly-leaf of Erckmann-Chatrian's novel, entitled, "Madame
+Therese_."
+
+    Wavered the foremost soldiers--then fell back.
+    Fallen was their leader, and loomed right before
+    The sullen Prussian cannon, grim and black,
+    With lighted matches waving. Now, once more,
+    Patriots and veterans!--Ah! Tis in vain!
+    Back they recoil, though bravest of the brave;
+    No human troops may stand that murderous rain;
+    But who is this--that rushes to a grave?
+
+    It is a woman--slender, tall, and brown!
+    She snatches up the standard as it falls--
+    In her hot haste tumbles her dark hair down,
+    And to the drummer-boy aloud she calls
+    To beat the charge; then forwards on the _pont_
+    They dash together;--who could bear to see
+    A woman and a child, thus Death confront,
+    Nor burn to follow them to victory?
+
+    I read the story and my heart beats fast!
+    Well might all Europe quail before thee, France,
+    Battling against oppression! Years have passed,
+    Yet of that time men speak with moistened glance.
+    _Va-nu-pieds!_ When rose high your Marseillaise
+    Man knew his rights to earth's remotest bound,
+    And tyrants trembled. Yours alone the praise!
+    Ah, had a Washington but then been found!
+
+
+
+
+SONNET
+
+
+    A sea of foliage girds our garden round,
+      But not a sea of dull unvaried green,
+      Sharp contrasts of all colors here are seen;
+    The light-green graceful tamarinds abound
+    Amid the mango clumps of green profound,
+      And palms arise, like pillars gray, between;
+      And o'er the quiet pools the seemuls lean,
+    Red--red, and startling like a trumpet's sound.
+    But nothing can be lovelier than the ranges
+      Of bamboos to the eastward, when the moon
+    Looks through their gaps, and the white lotus changes
+      Into a cup of silver. One might swoon
+        Drunken with beauty then, or gaze and gaze
+        On a primeval Eden, in amaze.
+
+
+
+
+SONNET
+
+
+    Love came to Flora asking for a flower
+      That would of flowers be undisputed queen,
+      The lily and the rose, long, long had been
+    Rivals for that high honor. Bards of power
+    Had sung their claims. "The rose can never tower
+      Like the pale lily with her Juno mien"--
+      "But is the lily lovelier?" Thus between
+    Flower-factions rang the strife in Psyche's bower.
+    "Give me a flower delicious as the rose
+      And stately as the lily in her pride"--
+      "But of what color?"--"Rose-red," Love first chose,
+      Then prayed--"No, lily-white--or, both provide;"
+      And Flora gave the lotus, "rose-red" dyed,
+    And "lily-white"--the queenliest flower that blows.
+
+
+
+
+OUR CASUARINA-TREE
+
+    Like a huge Python, winding round and round
+      The rugged trunk, indented deep with scars
+      Up to its very summit near the stars,
+    A creeper climbs, in whose embraces bound
+      No other tree could live. But gallantly
+    The giant wears the scarf, and flowers are hung
+    In crimson clusters all the boughs among,
+      Whereon all day are gathered bird and bee;
+    And oft at nights the garden overflows
+    With one sweet song that seems to have no close,
+    Sung darkling from our tree, while men repose,
+
+    When first my casement is wide open thrown
+      At dawn, my eyes delighted on it rest;
+      Sometimes, and most in winter--on its crest
+    A gray baboon sits statue-like alone
+      Watching the sunrise; while on lower boughs
+    His puny offspring leap about and play;
+    And far and near kokilas hail the day;
+      And to their pastures wend our sleepy cows;
+    And in the shadow, on the broad tank cast
+    By that hoar tree, so beautiful and vast,
+    The water-lilies spring, like snow enmassed.
+
+    But not because of its magnificence
+      Dear is the Casuarina to my soul:
+      Beneath it we have played; though years may roll,
+    O sweet companions, loved with love intense,
+      For your sakes, shall the tree be ever dear!
+    Blent with your images, it shall arise
+    In memory, till the hot tears blind mine eyes!
+      What is that dirge-like murmur that I hear
+    Like the sea breaking on a shingle-beach?
+    It is the tree's lament, an eerie speech,
+    That haply to the unknown land may reach.
+
+    Unknown, yet well-known to the eye of faith!
+      Ah, I have heard that wail far, far away
+      In distant lands, by many a sheltered bay,
+    When slumbered in his cave the water-wraith
+      And the waves gently kissed the classic shore
+    Of France or Italy, beneath the moon,
+    When earth lay tranced in a dreamless swoon:
+      And every time the music rose--before
+    Mine inner vision rose a form sublime,
+    Thy form, O Tree, as in my happy prime
+    I saw thee, in my own loved native clime.
+
+    Therefore I fain would consecrate a lay
+      Unto thy honor, Tree, beloved of those
+      Who now in blessed sleep, for aye, repose,
+    Dearer than life to me, alas! were they!
+      May'st thou be numbered when my days are done
+    With deathless trees--like those in Borrowdale,
+    Under whose awful branches lingered pale
+      "Fear, trembling Hope, and Death, the skeleton,
+    And Time, the shadow;" and though weak the verse
+    That would thy beauty fain, oh fain rehearse,
+    May Love defend thee from Oblivion's curse.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Hindu Literature, by Epiphanius Wilson
+
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