diff options
Diffstat (limited to 'old/13268-h')
| -rw-r--r-- | old/13268-h/13268-h.htm | 19538 |
1 files changed, 19538 insertions, 0 deletions
diff --git a/old/13268-h/13268-h.htm b/old/13268-h/13268-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..18ca048 --- /dev/null +++ b/old/13268-h/13268-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,19538 @@ +<!DOCTYPE HTML PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.01 Transitional//EN"> +<html> + <head> + <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content= + "text/html; charset=iso-8859-1"> + <title> + The Project Gutenberg eBook of Hindu Literature. + </title> + <style type="text/css"> +/*<![CDATA[ XML blockout */ +<!-- + P { margin-top: .75em; + text-align: justify; + margin-bottom: .75em; + } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { + text-align: center; /* all headings centered */ + } + HR { width: 33%; + margin-top: 1em; + margin-bottom: 1em; + } + BODY{margin-left: 10%; + margin-right: 10%; + } + LI{ list-style-type: none + } + .linenum {position: absolute; top: auto; left: 4%;} /* poetry number */ + .note {margin-left: 2em; margin-right: 2em; margin-bottom: 1em;} /* footnote */ + .blkquot {margin-left: 4em; margin-right: 4em;} /* block indent */ + .pagenum {position: absolute; left: 92%; font-size: smaller; text-align: right;} /* page numbers */ + .sidenote {width: 20%; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em; padding-left: 1em; font-size: smaller; float: right; clear: right;} + + .poem {margin-left:10%; margin-right:10%; text-align: left;} + .poem br {display: none;} + .poem .stanza {margin: 1em 0em 1em 0em;} + .poem span {display: block; margin: 0; padding-left: 3em; text-indent: -3em;} + .poem span.i2 {display: block; margin-left: 2em;} + .poem span.i4 {display: block; margin-left: 4em;} + .poem .caesura {vertical-align: -200%;} + // --> + /* XML end ]]>*/ + </style> + </head> +<body> + + +<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 RÁMÁYANA AND +ŚAKOONTALÁ</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 & 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.—</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 RÁMÁYANA</b></a></h3> + +<ul> +<li><a href='#SFR_INTRODUCTION'>Introduction</a></li> +<li><a href='#INVOCATION'>Invocation</a></li> +<li>BOOK I.—</li> +<li><ul> +<li>CANTO</li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_I'>I.—Nárad</a></li> +<li>[<i>Cantos II., III., IV., and V. are omitted</i>]</li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_VI'>VI.—The King</a></li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_VII'>VII.—The Ministers</a></li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_VIII'>VIII.—Sumantra's Speech</a></li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_IX'>IX.—Rishyaśring</a></li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_X'>X.—Rishyaśring Invited</a></li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_XI'>XI.—The Sacrifice Decreed</a></li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_XII'>XII.—The Sacrifice Begun</a></li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_XIII'>XIII.—The Sacrifice Finished</a></li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_XIV'>XIV.—Rávan Doomed</a></li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_XV'>XV.—The Nectar</a></li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_XVI'>XVI.—The Vánars</a></li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_XVII'>XVII.—Rishyaśring's Return</a></li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_XVIII'>XVIII.—Rishyaśring's Departure</a></li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_XIX'>XIX.—The Birth of the Princes</a></li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_XX'>XX.—Viśvámitra's Visit</a></li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_XXI'>XXI.—Viśvámitra's Speech</a></li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_XXII'>XXII.—Daśaratha's Speech</a></li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_XXIII'>XXIII.—Vaśishtha's Speech</a></li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_XXIV'>XXIV.—The Spells</a></li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_XXV'>XXV.—The Hermitage of Love</a></li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_XXVI'>XXVI.—The Forest of Tádaká</a></li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_XXVII'>XXVII.—The Birth of Tádaká</a></li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_XXVIII'>XXVIII.—The Death of Tádaká</a></li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_XXIX'>XXIX.—The Celestial Arms</a></li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_XXX'>XXX.—The Mysterious Powers</a></li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_XXXI'>XXXI.—The Perfect Hermitage</a></li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_XXXII'>XXXII.—Viśvámitra's Sacrifice</a></li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_XXXIII'>XXXIII.—The Sone</a></li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_XXXIV'>XXXIV.—Brahmadatta</a></li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_XXXV'>XXXV.—Viśvámitra's Lineage</a></li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_XXXVI'>XXXVI.—The Birth of Gangá</a></li> +<li>[<i>Cantos XXXVII. and XXXVIII. are omitted</i>]</li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_XXXIX'>XXXIX.—The Son of Sagar</a></li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_XL'>XL.—The Cleaving of the Earth</a></li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_XLI'>XLI.—Kapil</a></li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_XLII'>XLII.—Sagar's Sacrifice</a></li> +<li><a href='#CANTO_XLIII'>XLIII.—Bhagírath</a></li> +</ul></li></ul> + + +<h3><a href='#AKOONTALA'><b>ŚAKOONTALÁ</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.—</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.—</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.—</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 Thérèse</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 HITOPADEŚA</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 "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.</p> + +<p>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"<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 "Hitopadeśa," and to Mr. Muir's "Sanscrit +Texts."</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 "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.</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—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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—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—he that hath her not is blind."</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—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</span><br /> +</div> +<p>And again this—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"One wise son makes glad his father, forty fools avail him not:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One moon silvers all that darkness which the silly stars did dot."</span><br /> +</div> +<p>"And it has been said," reflected he—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Ease and health, obeisant children, wisdom, and a fair-voiced wife—</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?"</span><br /> +</div> +<p>"Nevertheless," mused the King, "I know it is urged that human efforts +are useless: as, for instance—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"That which will not be, will not be—and what is to be, will be:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Why not drink this easy physic, antidote of misery?"</span><br /> +</div> +<p>"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;'>"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."</span><br /> +</div> +<p>"For indeed,</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Twofold is the life we live in—Fate and Will together run:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Two wheels bear life's chariot onward—will it move on only one?"</span><br /> +</div> +<p>"And</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Look! the clay dries into iron, but the potter moulds the clay:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Destiny to-day is master—Man was master yesterday."</span><br /> +</div> +<p>"So verily,</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</span><br /> +</div> +<p>Having concluded his reflections, the Raja gave orders to assemble a +meeting of learned men. Then said he—</p> + +<p>"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;'>"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."</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—</p> + +<p>"My Lord King, I will undertake to teach these princes Policy, seeing +they are born of a great house; for—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</span><br /> +</div> +<p>"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."</p> + +<p>The Raja replied, with condescension:—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</span><br /> +</div> +<p>"And you, worshipful sir, are competent to teach my children the rules +of Policy."</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:—</p> + +<p>"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."</p> + +<p>"Pray, sir," said the King's sons, "let us hear it."</p> + +<p>Vishnu-Sarman answered—</p> + +<p>"It begins with the Winning of Friends; and this is the first verse of +it:—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Sans way or wealth, wise friends their purpose gain—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Mouse, Crow, Deer, and Tortoise make this plain."</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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Mouse, Crow, Deer, and Tortoise make this plain."</span><br /> +</div> +<p>"However was that?" asked the Princes.</p> + +<p>Vishnu-Sarman replied:—</p> + +<p>"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.</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>And yet in this life it must be that</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>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.</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"All out of longing for a golden bangle,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Tiger, in the mud, the man did mangle."</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>"How did that happen?" asked the Pigeons.</p> +<br /> + +<h4><b>The Story of the Tiger and the Traveller</b></h4> + +<p>"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<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—but I must not risk my neck +for it either.</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</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—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,</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Give to poor men, son of Kûnti—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—who meanwhile +bitterly reflected—</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—</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—</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. "And +that," said Speckle-neck, "is why we counselled caution."</p> + +<p>"Why, yes!" said a certain pigeon, with some presumption, "but you've +read the verse—</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;'>"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:—</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;'>"Be second and not first!—the share's the same</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If all go well. If not, the Head's to blame."</span><br /> +</div> +<p>And we should remember that</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</span><br /> +</div> +<p>When King Speckle-neck heard their reproaches, he said, "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;'>"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—</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."</span><br /> +</div> +<p>"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</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Small things wax exceeding mighty, being cunningly combined:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Furious elephants are fastened with a rope of grass-blades twined.'</span><br /> +</div> +<p>"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>"What is the next thing to be done, O King?"</p> + +<p>"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."</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>"Friend Golden-skin," cried the King, "have you no welcome for us?"</p> + +<p>"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.</p> + +<p>"That," said King Speckle-neck, "is the effect of some wrong-doing in a +former life—</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>"Nay! friend, not so," said the King, "cut me first these meshes from my +followers, and afterwards thou shalt sever mine."</p> + +<p>"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—</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>"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—</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,'"</span><br /> +</div> +<p>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<a name="FNanchor6"></a><a href="#Footnote_6"><sup>[6]</sup></a> 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—</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,'"</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, "Ho! +Golden-skin, thou very laudable Prince, let me too be a friend of thine, +and give me thy friendship."</p> + +<p>"Who art thou?" said Golden-skin, who heard him, but would not come out +of his hole.</p> + +<p>"I am the Crow Light o' Leap," replied the other.</p> + +<p>"How can I possibly be on good terms with thee?" answered Golden-skin +with a laugh; "have you never read—</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>"No! how was that?"</p> + +<p>"I will tell thee," replied Golden-skin:—</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>"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—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;'>"To folks by no one known house-room deny:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Vulture housed the Cat, and thence did die."</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>"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>"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?—</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—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Greeting fair, and room to rest in; fire, and water from the well—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Simple gifts—are given freely in the house where good men dwell,'—</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>and without respect of person—</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—better is he than the best,'</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>Else comes the rebuke—</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 "master" call;</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Agni is the Twice-born Master—but the guest is lord of all,'</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>"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—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'He who does and thinks no wrong—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He who suffers, being strong—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He whose harmlessness men know—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unto Swerga such doth go.'</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>"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."</p> + +<p>"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?—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>The Deer is my friend; condescend, sir, to be my friend also."</p> + +<p>'Oh!' broke in the Deer, 'why so much talking? We'll all live together, +and be friendly and happy—</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>"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!—</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—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Friend and kinsman—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—</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—less would make the name a lie.'</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>"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—</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—</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—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—alas!—and in the face of +the monition too—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Absent, flatterers' tongues are daggers—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—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?—</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—suddenly,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Knaves are shent—true men go free,'</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>"Thou seest, then," said Golden-skin, "there can be no friendship +between food and feeder."</p> + +<p>"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—</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>"Then, also, thou art such a gad-about," objected the King.</p> + +<p>"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</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Noble hearts are golden vases—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—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>"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:—</p> + +<p>"This is a poor place, your Majesty, for a Crow to get a living in. I +should like to leave it and go elsewhere."</p> + +<p>"Whither wouldst thou go?" 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>"And they say, too," 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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When he enters it be certain that a royal prey shall die,'</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>"I know an excellent jungle now."</p> + +<p>"Which is that?" asked the Mouse-king.</p> + +<p>"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."</p> + +<p>"Why should I stay behind," said Golden-skin, "if thou goest? Take me +also."</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>"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?"</p> + +<p>"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—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Very feeble folk are poor folk; money lost takes wit away:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All their doings fail like runnels, wasting through the summer day.'</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>"Yes!" I thought, "he is right, and so are the sayings—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Wealth is friends, home, father, brother—title to respect and fame;</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2.5em;'>Yea, and wealth is held for wisdom—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:—</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—altogether out of the question!—</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—</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?—</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—greater griefs no man can know.'</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>'And herein, also—</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:—</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—</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—</p> + +<p>'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.'</p> + +<p>"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>"King!" said Slow-toes, "your error was getting too much, without +giving. Give, says the sage—</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—</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—</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:—</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—oh! but these be virtues rare!'</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>"Frugal one may be," continued Slow-toes; "but not a niggard like the +Jackal—</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>"Did he, indeed," said Golden-skin; "and how was that?"</p> + +<p>"I will tell you," answered Slow-toes:—</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>"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:—</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?—</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—</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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unto such comes Lakshmi<a name="FNanchor9"></a><a href="#Footnote_9"><sup>[9]</sup></a> smiling—comes, and will not lightly part.'</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>"What indeed," continued Slow-toes, "is wealth, that we should prize it, +or grieve to lose it?—</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—</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—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?—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'For thy bread be not o'er thoughtful—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—He will verily provide.'</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>"Yes, verily," said Slow-toes, "wealth is bad to handle, and better left +alone; there is no truer saying than this—</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?—</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—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 +"Camphor-water." 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—</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. "I'll tell you," 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>"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?—</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:—</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 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.</p> + +<p>'I am my husband's,' she said,'and that is my honor; for—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Beautiful the Koíl<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 Lávanyavati.</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—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Fraud may achieve what force would never try:—</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:—</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>"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—</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>"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—</p> + +<p>"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."</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 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'——</p> + +<p>'And you too, Slow-toes—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!—and such a friend!</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Friend! gracious word!—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. "I deserve this," thought he—</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, "We have heard every word, and are +delighted; it fell out just as we wished."</p> + +<p>"I rejoice thereat, my Princes," said Vishnu-Sarman; "may it also fall +out according to this my wish—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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—serene and soon."</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>"Reverend Sir! we have listened to the 'Winning of Friends,' we would +now hear how friends are parted."</p> + +<p>"Attend, then," replied the Sage, "to 'the Parting of Friends,' the +first couplet of which runs in this wise—</p> + +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'The Jackal set—of knavish cunning full—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>At loggerheads the Lion and the Bull.'</span><br /> + +<p>"How was that?" asked the sons of the Rajah.</p> + +<p>Vishnu-Sarman proceeded to relate:—</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>"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—</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?—</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—</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—a little gain is so far +good—</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—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—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—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Men their cunning schemes may spin—</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:—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Shoot a hundred shafts, the quarry lives and flies—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?—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Robes were none, nor oil of unction, when the King of Beasts was crowned:—</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—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Oh, the bitter salt of service!—toil, frost, fire, are not so keen:—</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—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'What but for their vassals,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Elephant and man—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Swing of golden tassels,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wave of silken fan—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But for regal manner</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That the "Chattra"<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—</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?'—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'The Monkey drew the sawyer's wedge, and died:—</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:—</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>"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—</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—</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:—</p> +<br /> + +<a name='The_Story_of_the_Washermans_Jackass'></a><h4><b>The Story of the Washerman's Jackass</b></h4> + +<p>"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.</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—</p> + +<p>'At the work-time, asking wages—is it like a faithful herd?'</p> + +<p>'Thou extreme Ass!' replied the Dog.</p> + +<p>'When the work's done, grudging wages—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—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?—</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—after much entreaty—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—</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—but that is in the nature of things—</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—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—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—</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—will be chid.'</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>'I ignorant about service!' said Damanaka; 'no, no, my friend, I know +the secret of it—</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—</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;—is it not said—</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—</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>"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—</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—</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—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?—</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—</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—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——'</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—a bull, my brother—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—</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 "Curd-ear" the Cat.'</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>'Who was Curd-ear, the Cat?' inquired Karataka. Damanaka related:—</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>"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."</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?—</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;'>"Ho! ye elephants, to this work must your mightinesses come."'</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—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>Our Lord the King will not vouchsafe his anger to thee; knowest thou +not—</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—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.'</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>"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.</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>"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,<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," concluded Damanaka, "bring you a Bull instead +of a bell—your Majesty shall now see him!"</p> + +<p>"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—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—'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!—</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—the Vizir of a Sultan should be such.'</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>'No wealth will stand such waste, your Majesty—</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—they +should not have direction of the Treasury. They are old servants, too, +and you know the saying—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Brahmans, soldiers, these and kinsmen—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—as we have banqueted enough to-day—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>"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—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fools for folly suffer smart."</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>'No!' said Karataka, 'how was it?' Damanaka related:—</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>"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—</p> + +<p>"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,</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:—</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:—</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>"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—</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—</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—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'He that hath sense hath strength; the fool is weak:—</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:—</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>"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:—</p> + +<p>"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."</p> + +<p>"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?"</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>"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."</p> + +<p>"I have heard your story," said the Hen-Crow, "but what plan do you +propose?"</p> + +<p>"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.</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:—</p> + +<p>"Your Majesty, there is a dreadful thing on my mind, and I am come to +disclose it."</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>"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!—</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—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Long-tried friends are friends to cleave to—never leave thou these i' the lurch:—</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—</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—</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—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?—</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?—</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:—</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>"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:—</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>"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:—</p> + +<p>'Husband, the terrible disaster has occurred! My eggs arc gone!'</p> + +<p>'Be of good heart! my Life,' answered he.</p> + +<p>"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!—</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—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!—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—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Woman's love rewards the worthless—kings of knaves exalters be;</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wealth attends the selfish niggard, and the cloud rains on the sea."</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>'Can this be the Jackal's doing?' he reflected. Going with honest folk +will not make one honest—</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—</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—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Rich the sandal—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—</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—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Wrath of kings, and rage of lightning—both be very full of dread;</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But one falls on one man only—one strikes many victims dead,'</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>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,'</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:—</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:—</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—</p> + +<p>'I repent me of this deed!—</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—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>"Thus endeth," said the Sage Vishnu-Sarman, "the 'Parting of Friends.'"</p> + +<p>"We are gratified exceedingly thereby," replied the Sons of the King.</p> + +<p>"Let me then close it thus," said their Preceptor—</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>"Master," said they, "we are Princes, and the sons of Princes, and we +earnestly desire to hear thee discourse upon War."</p> + +<p>"I am to speak on what shall please you," replied Vishnu-Sarman. "Hear +now, therefore, of 'War,' whose opening is thus:—</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—</p> +<br /> + +<a name='The_Battle_of_the_Swans_and_Peacocks'></a><h4><b>The Battle of the Swans and Peacocks</b></h4> + +<p>"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.</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—</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—</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:—</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>"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!—</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—</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. "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!—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Serving narrow-minded masters dwarfs high natures to their size:—</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—as a fiction +once was mightier than a herd of elephants. You know it, don't you?—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Mighty may prove things insignificant:—</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—</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>"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,</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>"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: "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?"'</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 "Know-all"; 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:—</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:—</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—</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:—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Conciliation!—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:—</p> +<br /> + +<a name='The_Story_of_the_Appeased_Wheelwright'></a><h4><b>The Story of the Appeased Wheelwright</b></h4> + +<p>"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—</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—and when he dies, alas! I +will certainly die too. Is it not plainly said—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Hairs three-crore, and half-a-crore hairs, on a man so many grow—</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—</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>"Let the past pass," replied the King, "and take thought for the +present."</p> + +<p>"Be it in secret, then, your Majesty," said the Brahmany-goose—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Counsel unto six ears spoken, unto all is notified:—</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—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—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Sick men are for skilful leeches—prodigals for prisoning—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fools for teachers—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—</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—</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—</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—</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—</p> +<br /> + +<a name='The_Story_of_the_Dyed_Jackal'></a><h4><b>The Story of the Dyed Jackal</b></h4> + +<p>"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:—</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!—and henceforward transact nothing without my +imperial permission."</p> + +<p>"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:—</p> + +<p>"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—</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>"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:—</p> + +<p>'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.'</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—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Tis no Council where no Sage is—'tis no Sage that fears not Law;</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Tis no Law which Truth confirms not—'tis no Truth which Fear can awe.'</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>An ambassador must speak unthreatened—</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—</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—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Ever absent, harsh, unjustly portioning the captured prey—</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 Váchaspati 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?—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Kind is kin, howe'er a stranger—kin unkind is stranger shown;</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sores hurt, though the body breeds them—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>"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,'<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:—</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.—Ah! the rare betel! Truly say the wise of it—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Betel-nut is bitter, hot, sweet, spicy, binding, alkaline—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A demulcent—an astringent—foe to evils intestine;</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Giving to the breath a fragrance—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!—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—</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>"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.</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—</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>"Thus, then," concluded King Silver-sides, "in entertaining strangers a +man may add to his friends."</p> + +<p>"It may well be," replied the Goose; "but a Minister should advise what +is expedient, and not what is pleasing in sentiment:—</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—</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—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."</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—</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—</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—of Misfortune Policy.'</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>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—</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—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Where the Gods are, or thy Guru—in the face of Pain and Age,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Cattle, Brahmans, Kings, and Children—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—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—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Oh, my Prince! on eight occasions prodigality is none—</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—</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?—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Hold thy vantage!—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." 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—'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:—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!—</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—</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—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'The people are the lotus-leaves, their monarch is the sun—</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: "In that army of the Swans there was no soldier +like the Paddy-bird, who gave his own life for the King's."</p> + +<p>"There be nowhere many such," replied Vishnu-Sarman; "for</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'All the cows bring forth are cattle—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>"It is well spoken," said the Princes.</p> + +<p>"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?—</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>"It is so declared," said the Rajah's sons.</p> + +<p>"And now, my Princes," concluded Vishnu-Sarman, "you have listened to +'War.'"</p> + +<p>"We have listened, and are gratified," replied the sons of the King.</p> + +<p>"Let me end then," said their Preceptor, "with this—</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, "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—</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:—</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>"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—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—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"'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."</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>You have forgotten the saying—</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—</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>"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?—</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:—</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>"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 "Time-not-come," and away he went.</p> + +<p>'Why should we leave unless obliged?' asked "Quick-at-peril." 'When the +thing befalls I shall do the best I can—</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—and denied the kiss—under his eyes.'</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>'How was that?' asked the other fish. Quick-at-peril related:—</p> +<br /> + +<a name='The_Story_of_the_Unabashed_Wife'></a><h4><b>The Story of the Unabashed Wife</b></h4> + +<p>"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!—</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:—</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.—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—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:—</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>"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.'</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!—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?'</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:—'"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—</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—</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>"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—</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:—</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>"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—</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>"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—</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:—</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>"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.'</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—</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—</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—</p> +<br /> + +<a name='The_Duel_of_the_Giants'></a><h4><b>The Duel of the Giants</b></h4> + +<p>"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:—</p> + +<p>'I grant a boon unto ye—choose what it shall be.'</p> + +<p>'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.</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—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:—</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—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?—</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—keep the peace with such as these.'</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>The Swan-king has friends and kinsmen, my Liege:—</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——'</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—</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—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—</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?—</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:—</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:—</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>"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—</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—as witness "Crop-ear" 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>"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?'</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?—</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:—</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—feed what brings the fruit.'</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>Take me, therefore, your Majesty, and break your fast upon me."</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—</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—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—</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:—</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>"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—</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—</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—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—</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?—</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—they must all be surrendered! Is it not said—</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—touches—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—</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—</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—</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—goest thou thither?'</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>What will be, will be; and who knows not—</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—</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—</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—</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—</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—I will betake me to the +forest.'</p> + +<p>'Will that stead you?' asked Kapila; 'nay—</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—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!—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Away with those that preach to us the washing off of sin—</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—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—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—let him serve me!'</p> + +<p>"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—</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—</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—</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—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—of mutual help—of +friendship—of blood—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 "Sangata," 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>"And now," said Vishnu-Sarman, "I have told your Royal Highnesses all. +Is there anything remaining to be told?"</p> + +<p>"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."</p> + +<p>"There remains but this, then," said their Preceptor:—</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 "Mahâbhârata" Translation by Sir Edwin Arnold</i>]</h4> +<br /> + +<a name='ND_INTRODUCTION'></a><h3>INTRODUCTION</h3> +<br /> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>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."</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>L.F.C.</p> + + + +<hr style='width: 65%;' /> +<h2>THE MAHÂBHÂRATA</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—for joy of joys—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A girl, the gem of girlhood, and three brave lusty boys—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Damana, Dama, Dânta, their names:—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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like Śachi'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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nay—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—hardly bearing in his heart</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Such longing—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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</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—a bright flock—</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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sitting amid her maids—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—at the point to grasp—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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 17em;'>"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 Aświn 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."</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: "Go, dear swan, and tell</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This same to Nala;" and the egg-born said,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"I go"—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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With love o'erweighted—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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By glance and mien and moan—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: "Ye Lords of Earth, attend</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Damayanti the Swayamvara."</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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Elephants, horses, cars—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—</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—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: "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!"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>But He that slew the Demons spake again:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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—</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, Kâmadhuk, 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?"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And unto Indra Narad gave reply:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Each for himself—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."</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;'>"We, too, will go." 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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Abo! Nala of Nishadha! Noblest Prince,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Be herald for us; bear our message now."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>"Yea!" Nala made reply, "this will I do"—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And then—palm unto palm in reverence pressed—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Asked: "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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus the Prince spake, and Indra answered him:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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—</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.'"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But Nala, hearing that, joined palms again,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And cried: "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!"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Then spake they: "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!"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>So bid, but lingering yet again, he said:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Well guarded are the gates; how shall I find</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Speech with her?"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 11em;'>"Thou shalt find," 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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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?"</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: "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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 16em;'>Tenderly spake</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Prince, replying to those tender words:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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—</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."</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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—in full trust thine.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Make me that promise, Prince. Thy gentle name—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sung by the swan—first set my thoughts afire;</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And for thy sake—only for thee—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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>So spake Vidarbha's Pride; and Nala said:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"With gods so waiting—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;'>Hutâsa, 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—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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Unto Nishadha's Prince the maid replied—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Tears of distress dimming her lustrous eyes—-</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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!"</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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!"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Checking her tears, Damayanti sadly smiled,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And said full soft: "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,"</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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!"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Quoth Nala: "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!"</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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Not moving save with her—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 Bhârat!), 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;—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, "How shall I tell which be the gods,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And which is noble Nala?" 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: "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." 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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The high gods—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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Hearing that earnest speech—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—</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"I know thee, and I name my rightful lord,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Taking Nishadha's chief." 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—him only—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;'>"Ha!" and "Aho!" But from the gods and saints,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Sadhu! well done! well done!" 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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Being well-pleased—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—for everywhere</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hutâsa 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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nishadha's chief—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 Śachi'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 Aśwamedha 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 Yayâti; 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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The effulgent gods—departed, Dwapara</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They saw with Kali, coming. Indra said—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Demon-slayer—spying these approach:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Whither, with Dwapara, goest thou to-day,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>O Kali?" And the sombre Shade replied:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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." But Indra, laughing, said:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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," But Kali, hearing this,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Breaks into wrath—while he stood worshipping</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That band divine—and furiously cries:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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!"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Nay," answered unto him those heavenly ones,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</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: "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,"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Into which compact entering, those repaired—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Kali and Dwapara—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: "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—thou mayest gain them all."</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 "Bull," and little ones</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For "Cows," and Kali hiding in the Bull).</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So Pushkara came to Nala's side and said:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Play with me, brother, at the 'Cows and Bull';"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And, being put off, cried mockingly, "Nay, play!"</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;'>"Yea, Pushkara, I will play!" 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 "Subduer of his Foes."</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: "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,'" 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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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?" 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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The citizens and counsellors—cried out,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Our lord is changed! He is not Nala now!"</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—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: Vrihatsenâ she called—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her foster-nurse and faithful ministrant—</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, "Vrihatsenâ,</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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So went Vrihatsenâ, 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;'>"Truly we, too, shall perish!" 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:—</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Send to Varshneya, good Vrihatsenâ;</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Say to the charioteer—in Nala's name—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'A great thing is to do. Come thou!'" And this—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So soon as Damayanti uttered it—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vrihatsenâ, 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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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—</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."</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 Ayodhyâ</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—</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, "One other throw; once more!—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."</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—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—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, "Whoso yieldeth help</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Nala, dieth! Let my will be known!"</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Lo! here is food; this day we shall have store;"</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: "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."</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: "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—</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—these have come—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Demon and dice—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—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—southward—far away."</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>"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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>"Thou mak'st it true," he said; "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—not thee, thou Faultless One!"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>"Yet, if," the Princess answered, "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'—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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>"As is thy father's kingdom," Nala said,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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?"</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—</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—</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—- 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, "What if I shall do it? What, again,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If I shall do it not?" So murmured he.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</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;'>"For how," saith he, "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?"</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;'>"May I not rend one fold, and she not know?"</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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 Aświns twain,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Guard thee, thou true and dear one, on thy way!"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>So to his sleeping Queen—on all the earth</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unmatched for beauty—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—</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—the trouble-stricken Prince—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One beating "Go," one throbbing "Stay"; 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—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: "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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thine own fond wife—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!—I am afraid! Come forth!</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Linger not, for I see—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?"</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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!"</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. "Ha, ha! Maharaja!"</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. "Ah, Prince!" she cried,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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—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—Damayanti dead?"</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: "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?"</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—being so pure,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So chaste, and faithful—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—albeit so desolate, so lone,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Abandoned by her lord, stripped of her state—</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: "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!"</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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Round pools where rocked the lotus—âmalaks,</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 priyâlas, 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 vibhîtikas. 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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Pisâchas, 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—this daughter of a king—</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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vidarbha's glory—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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Threading this dreadful forest—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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>"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 Aśwamedha 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—once so fond and kind—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Recall it now—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—</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—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'?—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—of Nala—styled</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Subduer of his Foes"? Him seek I here—</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—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 punnâga 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—that puissant lord—</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 Aśwamedha—</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—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?"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 14em;'>Then she cried:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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!'—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."</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 Vaśistha, Bhrigu, Atri, were—</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—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—that lovely wanderer—</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—</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, "<i>Swâgatam</i>—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Welcome!" and gave the greetings which are meet;</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And afterwards, "Repose thyself," they said;</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"What wouldst thou have of us?" Then, with soft words</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The slender-waisted spake: "Of all these here,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So worshipful in sacrifice and rite—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Mid gentle beasts and birds—in tasks and toils</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And blameless duties—is it well?" And they</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Answered: "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!"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 16.5em;'>Whereat reply</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus made she to the Rishis: "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—Best of Twice-born!—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 Bráhmanas</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—Nala—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 Vedângas, 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—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—</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—my lord, my warrior,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My hero—and still roam, uncomforted.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Worshipful brethren! say if he hath come—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nishadha's Chief, my Nala, hitherward</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unto your pleasant homes—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—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?"</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: "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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Even now—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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With all his gems and glories—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."</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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?" 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—</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;'>"<i>Ahovat</i>—Look!"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She cried: "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—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—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—ease my heart of pain."</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 chakravâks,</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—</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—breathlessly breaks she in</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upon them—Nala's wife—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: "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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Hereby accosted, softly gave response</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That royal lady—weary for her lord—</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: "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—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!"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 15.5em;'>Then one who led</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their line—the merchant Śuchi—answering,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Spake to the peerless Princess: "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—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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Lord of Yakshas—as I tell thee truth!"</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: "Whither wend ye, I pray?</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Please ye, acquaint me where this Sârthâ<a name="FNanchor23"></a><a href="#Footnote_23"><sup>[23]</sup></a> goes."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Replied the captain: "Unto Chedi's realm,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where rules the just Subâhu, journey we,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To sell our merchandise, daughter of men!"</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—</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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All the long caravan—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;'>"Haha! the elephants!" 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—</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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Cattle and merchants—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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"The fire is in the tents! fly for your lives!</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Stay not!" And others cried: "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!" And then to these</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One voice cried, "Stand!" another, "Fly! we die!"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Answered by those again who shouted, "Stand!</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Think what we lose, O cowards!"</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—</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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her breath suspended 'twixt her lips—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: "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?"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And others said, wailing for friends and goods:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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;'>Yakshî or Rakshasî, 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!"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Trembling the Princess heard those angry words;</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And—saddened, maddened, shamed—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;'>"Aho!" she weeps, "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—even a little thing—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—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!"</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—</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: "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—being glad</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If I could die—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—meseems it may!—</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!"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>So—woe-begone and wild—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 Bráhmanas</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Saved from the rout—good men who knew the Veds—</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 Subâhu. 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—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—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—boys with girls—followed her steps,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So that she came—a crowd encompassing—</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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." 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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Desolate Damayanti—whom the Queen</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Courteous besought: "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—not fearing men—by some spell safe."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Hearing which words, the child of Bhima spake</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gratefully this: "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:—</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—one garment bearing—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—</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!"</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 Subâhu's mother—sad</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To hear as she to tell. "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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And Damayanti, bowing, answered thus</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unto the Queen: "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 Bráhmanas</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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 14em;'>Very tenderly</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Quoth the queen-mother: "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!" Comforting her so,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To the king's daughter, young Sunandâ, spake</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Maharajni: "See, Sunandâ, 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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>So went Sunandâ 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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Haste hither, Punyashloka, Nala, haste!"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Fear not," the Prince replied; "I come!" 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—a king of serpents—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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Maharaja, kindly lord, I am the snake</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Karkôtaka; 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—</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." 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: "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."</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 Karkôtaka,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Comfort him thus:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 12em;'>"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—till he quit—</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 Bráhmans! safe thou goest now,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Guarded from grief and hurt—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 'Vahûka, 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 Ayodhyâ.</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."</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"I am the chariot-driver, Vahûka.</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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>"I take thee," quoth the King. "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, Vahûka, 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."</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: "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?" 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: "Who is she thou dost lament?</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Say, Vahûka! 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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And Nala answered him: "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—so wrenched</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Apart from hers—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—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—roamed it, my Jivala,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unguarded by her guilty lord—forsook,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Betrayed, good friend!"</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 Bráhmans 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. "Seek everywhere," said he</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unto the twice-born, "Nala—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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With lost Nishadha's Lord—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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 11.5em;'>Thereby rejoiced, they went,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Those Bráhmans, 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—</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, Sudêva 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—Bhima's daughter—side by side</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With young Sunandâ. 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 Sudêva marked the great dark eyes—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lustreless though they were, and she so worn,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So listless—"Lo, the Princess!" whispered he;—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"'Tis the King's daughter," quoth he to himself;</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thus mused on:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 12em;'>"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!—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who bear'st no gems, yet so becomest them—</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:—</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—dark and long-shaped</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As are the hundred-petalled lotus-leaves—</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—albeit banished now—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."</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, Sudêva drew</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nearer, and said: "Vidarbhi, Nala's wife,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I am the Bráhmana Sudêva, 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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With promise of long years—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."</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;'>Sudêva—best of Bráhmanas—come there.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Which soon Sunandâ 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: "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 Bráhman, 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."</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 Bráhmana.</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: "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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who is our slave-girl with the goddess gait?"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The Bráhmana Sudêva, 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;'>Sudêva said: "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—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—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—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—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—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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Whilst yet Sudêva spake (O King of men!),</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sunandâ 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;'>Sunandâ 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: "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—he that rules</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Daśarna, King Sudâman. 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 Daśarna, 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."</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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—poor babes!—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?"</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—happier—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;—father and mother, friends.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The gods she worshipped, and to Bráhmanas</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 Sudêva 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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</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: "Haha! where is gone her lord?"</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: "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:—</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.'"</span><br /> +</div> +<br /> +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then Bhima, hearing, called his Bráhmanas</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: "Now we depart!" Then Bhima's child</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gave ordinance: "To whatsoever lands</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ye wend, say this—wherever gather men,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Say this—in every place these verses speak:—</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 belovèd'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," the Princess said, "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:—</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," quoth the Princess,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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 Bráhmans, 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—be he high or low,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wealthy or poor—learn all he was and is,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And what he would."</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—after many days—there came</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A Bráhman back, Parnâda he was called,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who unto Bhima's child in this wise spake:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"O Damayanti, seeking Nala still,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ayodhyâ's streets I entered, where I saw</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Maharaja; he—noble-minded one!—</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—one of Rituparna's train,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vahûka 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—with groans,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And tears which rolled and rolled—asked of my health,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And then these verses spake full wistfully:—</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—</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," Parnâda said,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</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 Parnâda spake,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And afterwards crept secretly and said</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unto her mother: "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 Sudêva 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 Sudêva home, so let him go—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With not less happy fortune—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;'>Ayodhyâ, mother dear, and fetch my Prince!"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>But first Parnâda, resting from his road—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That best of twice-borns—did the Princess thank</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With honorable words and gifts: "If home</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My Nala cometh, Bráhman!" so she spake,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Great guerdon will I give. Thou hast well done</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For me herein—- better than any man;</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Helping me find again my wandered lord."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To which fair words made soft reply, and prayers</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For "peace and fortune," 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 Sudêva spake the sad Princess</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This (O my King!), her mother standing by:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Good Bráhman, to Ayodhyâ'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.'"</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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That Bráhmana Sudêva—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;'>Sudêva's words, quoth he to Vahûka</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Full pleasantly: "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!"</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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—my slender-waisted one!</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yet no, no, no! she would not—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."</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"I shall thy hest accomplish! I can drive</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In one day, Raja, to Vidarbha's gates."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Then in the royal stables—steed by steed,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Stallions and mares, Vahûka 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—</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: "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?"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Vahûka answered: "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—doubt it not—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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 14em;'>Rituparna said:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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!"</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 Vahûka 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; Vahûka's matchless art.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Is Mâtali, 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 Sâlihotra 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—can it be—Nala the Prince,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nala the steed-tamer?" Thus pondered he:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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—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—and so unlike</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In form! Else Vahûka I must have deemed</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nala, with Nala's gifts."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 15em;'>So in his heart,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Varshneya, watching, wondered—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—loath to lose the robe—albeit so pressed,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Nala cried he, "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,"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But Nala answered: "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."</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Now, Vahûka, 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!"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Vahûka checked the chariot wonderingly,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And answered: "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—fruits and leaves—before thee, King;</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Varshneya, for a space, can rein the steeds."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>To him replied the Raja: "Time is none</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Now to delay."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 10em;'>Vahûka answered quick</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>(His own set purpose serving): "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!"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>On that the Raja answered soothingly:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 15.5em;'>Nala replied:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"When I have counted those vibhîtak boughs,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vidarbha I will reach; now keep thy word."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Ill pleased, the Raja said: "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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>So leaping from the car—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: "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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Answered the Raja, for his journey fain:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"My mind is quick with numbers, skilled to count;</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I have the science."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 12.5em;'>"Give it me, dear Lord!"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vahûka cried: "teach me, I pray, this lore,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And take from me my skill in horse-taming."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Quoth Rituparna—impatient to proceed—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Yet of such skill desirous: "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."</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 Karkôtaka</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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Free from the serpent's poison—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: "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."</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, "There comes</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Raja Rituparna!" 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—</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: "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—at last, at last—</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—ending all—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—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—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!"</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 Vahûka</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—</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;'>"<i>Swâgatam!"</i> cried he; "what hath brought thee, Prince?"</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 Bráhmans gathering—weighing all those things,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Answered in this wise: "I am come, great Lord,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To make thee salutations!" But the King</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Laughed in his beard at Rituparna's word—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That this of many weary yojanas</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Should be the mark. "<i>Ahoswid</i>! Hath he passed</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Through twenty towns," thought he, "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."</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. "Repose thyself,"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He said; "the road was long; weary thou art."</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;'>Vahûka, 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 Vahûka,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Spake sorrowful: "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?"</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 Vahûka, that she might question him.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>"Go, Keshinî," the Princess said; "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—a hope—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 Parnâda 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!"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 16em;'>Then went the maid</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Demurely, and accosted Vahûka,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While Damayanti watched them from the roof.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>"<i>Kushalam tê bravîmi</i>—health and peace</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I wish thee!" said she. "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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>"'Twas told my Raja," Vahûka replied,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"That Damayanti for the second turn</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Holds her Swayamvara: the Bráhman's word</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was, "This shall be to-morrow." 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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>"Who, then," Keshinî asked, "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?"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 13em;'>Then Vahûka replied:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>"Knoweth Varshneya, then, where Nala fled?"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Inquired the maid; "and did he tell thee this,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Or what spake he?"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 11em;'>"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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Keshinî said: "That Bráhman who did wend</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>First to Ayodhyâ bore a verse to say</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Over and over, everywhere—strange words,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wove by a woman's wit. Listen to these:—</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 belovèd'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—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."</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:—</span><br /> +</div> +<br /> +<div class='poem'><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: 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 Keshinî, 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: "Go, Kashinî, 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—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 Vahûka doth,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>See it, and say."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 10em;'>Thereon Keshinî sped,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Obeying Damayanti and—at hand—</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 Vahûka 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;'>"<i>Subhê</i>!"<a name="FNanchor27"></a><a href="#Footnote_27"><sup>[27]</sup></a> quoth she, "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—great store of food—</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:—</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—</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!"</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 Vahûka,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With happier tears and softening voice she said</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Keshinî: "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."</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!)—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That knew so well the dishes dressed by him—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Touched, tasted it, and, laughing—weeping—cried,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Beside herself with joy: "Yes, yes; 'tis he!</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That charioteer is Nala!" 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 Vahûka;</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 Keshinî, 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: "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!"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>But seeing that great trouble of his soul,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lightly came Keshinî, 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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Mother! long watching Vahûka, I deem</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The charioteer is Nala. One doubt lives—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His altered form. I must myself have speech</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With Vahûka; 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!—whether known or not</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unto the Maharaja."</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 Vahûka 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: "Didst ever, Vahûka—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>If Vahûka thy name be, as thou say'st—</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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His innocent, fond wife—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—abandon her to whom he swore—</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—'Thy true lord I will be!'</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou saidst it!—where is now that promise, fled?"</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: "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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How should a wife, right-minded to her lord—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her own and lawful lord—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—as pleaseth—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—and me!"</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 aggrievèd Prince:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Judgest thou me guilty of such a sin?</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When for thy sake I put the gods aside—</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 Bráhmans 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 Parnâda 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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Then Vayu showed—the all-enfolding Air—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And spake: "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!"</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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wonderful, gracious—when he heard that voice</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Called the great snake to memory:—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 Bhârat's line!)—</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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unstained by earth, enchanted—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;'>"Ah, Nala! Nala!" 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—at happy peace—</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—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: "To-morrow will I see—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When Nala hath his needful offerings made—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Our daughter and this wandering lord well knit."</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—in an hour found fortunate—</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 Vahûka 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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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!"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And Nala answered: "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."</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: "Play yet again; much wealth is mine,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And that, and all I have—yea, my Princess—</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—</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."</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: "<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 Apsarâ.</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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The smooth-limbed Damayanti—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."</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: "Play! mock me not with jests;</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thou wilt not jest when I have cast with thee!"</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—the numbers named—</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: "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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Albeit thou knew'st nought, fool—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!"</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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gently entreated—to Nishadha spake,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With folded palms and humbled face, these words:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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." 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—heart-content—</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 Bhârat'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. "Happy now our days will be,"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Said the townsfolk, said the elders, said the villagers, "O King!"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Standing all with palms upfolded: "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."</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—my noble Nala—princeliest of all lords—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 RÁMÁYANA</h2> + +<h4>BY</h4> + +<h3>VÁLMÍKI</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 "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.</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 "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—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"In by-gone ages built and planned</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By sainted Manu's princely hand."</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>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—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Four sons, O Monarch, shall be thine,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upholders of the royal line."</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>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.</p> + + + +<hr style='width: 65%;' /> +<h2>THE RÁMÁYANA</h2> + +<a name='INVOCATION'></a><h4>INVOCATION</h4> + + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Praise to Válmíki, 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;'>Ráma, aye Ráma, 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 Válmíki'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 Ráma's glory by the saint is sung?</span><br /> +</div> +<br /> +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The stream Rámáyan 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 Ráma 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 Ráma 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 Válmíki, 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, Válmíki, 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 Nárad, 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 Válmíki, first and best</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of hermit saints, these words addressed:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</span><br /> +</div> +<br /> +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then Nárad, 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: "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 Ikshváku's line he came,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Known to the world by Ráma's name:—</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:—</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So liberal, so just is he.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The joy of Queen Kauśalyá's heart,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In every virtue he has part;</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Firm as Himálaya'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 Daśaratha 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 Kaikeyí, 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 Ráma 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;'>Ráma, to please Kaikeyí 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 Sítá, Ráma'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 Rohiní</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 Ráma lighted down</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>At Śringavera's pleasant town,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where Gangá'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, Nishádas' 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 Bharadvája bade them, till</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They came to Chitrakúta's hill.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Ráma 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 Sítá, dressed</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In coat of bark and deerskin vest.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Chitrakúta 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: Śiva'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 Ráma 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 "Thy claim all men allow:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>O come, our lord and King be thou."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But Ráma 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:—</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 Ayodhyá would he stay,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But turned to Nandigráma, 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 Ráma'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 Chitrakúta's hill</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fared Ráma, ever onward till</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Beneath the shady trees he stood</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Dandaká's primeval wood.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Virádha, 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:—</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:—</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 Ráma's falchion left its trace</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Deep cut on Súrpanakhá's face:—</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 Dúshan 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 Ráma died.</span><br /> +</div> +<br /> +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When Rávan, dreaded warrior, knew</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The slaughter of his giant crew—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rávan, the King, whose name of fear</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Earth, hell, and heaven all shook to hear—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He bade the fiend Márícha 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 Márícha tried</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To turn him from his course aside:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Not Rávan's self, he said, might hope</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With Ráma 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 Ráma's hermitage.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>There, by Márícha'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 Ráma as his prey.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The son of Raghu came and found</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Jatáyu 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 Sítá 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 Pampá'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 Hanumán 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 Sugríva, Vánar 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;'>Sugríva to his new-found friend</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Told his own story to the end:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His hate of Báli 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 Ráma lent a willing ear</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And promised to allay his fear.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sugríva warned him of the might</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Báli, 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 Báli 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 Sugríva'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 Kishkindhá'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 Báli 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 Sugríva in the strife.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One shaft from Ráma'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 Ráma bade Sugríva reign</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In place of royal Báli 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 Ráma's spouse to bring.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then by Sampáti's counsel led,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Brave Hanumán, 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 Lanká'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 Rávan held his royal sway.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>There pensive 'neath Aśoka boughs</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He found poor Sítá, Ráma'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 Brahmá 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 Ráma's dame,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then swiftly back to Ráma 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 Sugríva for his guide,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Came Ráma 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 Lanká's golden town,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where Ráma's hand smote Rávan down.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vibhíshan 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 Sítá came;</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But Ráma, 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 Sítá, 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 Ráma 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 Nandigráma 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 Ayodhyá'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 Ráma'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 Brahmá'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 Ráma'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;'>Bráhmans 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 Súdras, 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 Daśaratha, 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 Ikshváku'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 Amarávatí.</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 Bráhmans, 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 Vaiśyas' 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 Súdras 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 Bráhman, 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 Váhli's hills and Sindhu's sand,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vanáyu and Kámboja's land.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Her noble elephants had strayed</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Through Vindhyan and Himálayan 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 Váman, vast of size,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Mahápadma's glorious line,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thine, Anjan, and, Airávat, 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;'>Ayodhyá 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 Daśaratha 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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vaśishtha, faithful to advise,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Vámadeva, 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:—</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;'>Siddhárth and Arthasádhak true</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Watched o'er expense and revenue,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Dharmapál and wise Aśok</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:—</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:—</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—</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"A votive steed 'twere good to slay,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So might a son the gift repay."</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Hither, Vaśishtha at their head,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Let all my priestly guides be led."</span><br /> +</div> +<br /> +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To him Sumantra made reply:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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;'>Sanatkumár, 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 Kaśyap's race, a holy man,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vibhándak named: to him shall spring</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A son, the famous Rishyaśring.</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 Bráhmans 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 Lomapád 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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"The lore of Heaven 'tis yours to know,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor are ye blind to things below:—</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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Those best of Bráhmans shall reply:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"By every art, O Monarch, try,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hither to bring Vibhándak'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."</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 Rishyaśring.</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 Rishyaśring</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Lomapád, the mighty King,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By wedlock be allied;</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For Śántá, 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 Daśaratha 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 Sanatkumár,</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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then Daśaratha cried with joy,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Say how they brought the hermit boy."</span><br /> +</div> + + +<hr style='width: 25%;' /> +<a name='CANTO_IX'></a><h3>CANTO IX</h3> + +<h4>RISHYAŚRING</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 Lomapád thus spoke aloud:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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,"</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 Vibhándak 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 Koïl'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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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,"</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"My father," thus he made reply,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Is Kaśyap's son, a saint most high,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vibhándak styled; from him I came,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Rishyaśring he calls my name.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Our hermit cot is near this place:—</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."</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;'>Vibhándak's son received them well</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Beneath the shelter of his cell—</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</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—</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;'>"Why dost thou not, my son," he cried,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Rishyaśring, when questioned thus,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Made answer in this wise:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"My son," said he, "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:—</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."</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 Rishyaśring 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 Vibhándak 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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"O come, we pray, dear lord, behold</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Our lovely home of which we told:—</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."</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 Bráhman 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;'>Vibhándak 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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"The Angas' lord who bears the name</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Lomapád, 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 Rishyaśring; and he</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vibhándak's son is said to be."</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 Bráhman'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 Bráhman Rishyaśring</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Passed in that royal town his life</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With Śántá his beloved wife.</span><br /> +</div> + + +<hr style='width: 25%;' /> +<a name='CANTO_X'></a><h3>CANTO X</h3> + +<h4>RISHYAŚRING INVITED</h4> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Again, O best of Kings, give ear:—</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 Bráhman told.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Of famed Ikshváku'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 Daśaratha, 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;'>Śántá of happy destiny.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But Lomapád, the Angas' chief,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Still pining in his childless grief,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Daśaratha thus shall say:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Give me thy daughter, friend, I pray,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy Śántá of the tranquil mind,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The noblest one of womankind."</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 Rishyaśring 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 Daśaratha to a rite</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That best of Bráhmans 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 Bráhman to thy side."</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 Daśaratha heard,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then by Vaśishtha's side he stood</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thus with him conferred:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Sumantra counsels thus:—do thou</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My priestly guide, the plan allow."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vaśishtha 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 Rishyaśring'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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Lomapád 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 Lomapád, 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:—</span><br /> +</div> +<br /> +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"O King of men, mine ancient friend,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>(Thus Daśaratha prayed),</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy Śántá with her husband send</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My sacrifice to aid."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Said he who ruled the Angas, "Yea,"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And his consent was won:—</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"This King," he said, "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 Śántá's father see:—</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:—</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."</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 Śántá at his side</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Daśaratha'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:—</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 Daśaratha'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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</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 Ayodhyá 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 Rishyaśring.</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 Rishyaśring 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 Śántá for his minister,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As Brahmá's son Vaśishtha, he</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who wedded Saint Arundhatí.</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—</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 Rishyaśring, 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;'>"Go summon quick, each holy guide,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To counsel and to hear,"</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 Vaśishtha and the rest,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In Scripture deeply read.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Suyajńa, Vámadeva came,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Jáváli, Kaśyap's son,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And old Vaśishtha, dear to fame,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Obedient, every one.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>King Daśaratha 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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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 Rishyaśring his aid to lend,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And with your glory to befriend."</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 Vaśishtha led,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gave praises to the King, and said:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</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—</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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 Sarjú'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—</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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And all the Bráhmans answered, "Yea,"</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Success attend thine aim!"</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 Daśaratha went within,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His well-loved wives to see—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And said: "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."</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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And to Vaśishtha, saintly man,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In modest words this speech began:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Fain will I do whatever may be</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Desired, O honored King, by thee."</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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—</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."</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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 Bráhmans 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 Bráhman visitors to shade—</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—</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."</span><br /> +</div> +<br /> +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They answered: "As thou seest fit</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So will we do and nought omit."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The sage Vaśishtha then addressed</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sumantra, called at his behest:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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 Mithilá 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 Daśaratha's old ally.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Káśi's lord of gentle speech,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who finds a pleasant word for each—</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 Lomapád, 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 Suráshtra's land,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Suvíra'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:—</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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vaśishtha'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 Vaśishtha 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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</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 Daśaratha bore.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then joy thrilled through Vaśishtha's breast</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As thus the monarch he addressed:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then Rishyaśring confirmed the tale:—</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 Vaśishtha 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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then upon Sarjú'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 Rishyaśring the forms to guide,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Bráhmans 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:—</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 Daśaratha's head.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then Rishyaśring 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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While all around the cry was still,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Give forth, give forth," and "Eat your fill."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Give forth with liberal hand the meal,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And various robes in largess deal."</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:—</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 Bráhmans 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—</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 Bráhman 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 Bráhmans praised the fare</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of countless sorts, of flavor rare—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thus to Raghu's son they cried:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"We bless thee, and are satisfied."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Between the rites some Bráhmans 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 Bráhman 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 Khádir six and six;</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Six, made of the Paláśa-tree,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Fig-wood one, apart to be—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Sleshmát and of Devadár</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One column each, the mightiest far:—</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:—</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—</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:—</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;'>Kauśalyá, 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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upon Kauśalyá 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 Rishyaśring 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:—</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—after came</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Atirátra'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 Aptoryám 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 Viśvajit</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 Áyus rite.</span><br /> +</div> +<br /> +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The task was done, as laws prescribe:—</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—</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;'>Ikshváku's son, with joyful mind,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This noble fee to each assigned—</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"'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."</span><br /> +</div> +<br /> +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The chief of old Ikshváku'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 Vaśishtha, high of soul,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Rishyaśring they gave the whole.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That largess pleased those Bráhmans well,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who bade the prince his wishes tell.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then Daśaratha, mighty King,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Made answer thus to Rishyaśring:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"O holy Hermit, of thy grace,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vouchsafe the increase of my race."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He spoke; nor was his prayer denied—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The best of Bráhmans thus replied:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Four sons, O Monarch, shall be thine,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upholders of thy royal line."</span><br /> +</div> + + +<hr style='width: 25%;' /> +<a name='CANTO_XIV'></a><h3>CANTO XIV</h3> + +<h4>RÁVAN 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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</span><br /> +</div> +<br /> +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then by Vibhándak'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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Brahmá, the ruler of the sky,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sthánu, Náráyan, 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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"For you has Daśaratha 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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They to the hermit's son replied:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"His longing shall be gratified.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For, Bráhman, in most high degree</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>We love the King and honor thee."</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"O Brahmá, mighty by thy grace,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rávan, 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 Rávan'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."</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: "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."</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then Vishnu spake: "Ye Gods, declare,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>What may I do to grant your prayer?"</span><br /> +</div> +<br /> +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"King Daśaratha," thus cried they,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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—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;'>Rávan who laughs at heavenly might—</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 Rávan, 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."</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 Náráyan made:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"What task demands my presence there,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And when this dread, ye Gods declare."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Gods replied: "We fear, O Lord,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Fierce Rávan, 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."</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 Brahmá and the suppliants spake:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</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:—-</span><br /> +</div> +<br /> +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Champion of Gods, as man appear,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This cruel Rávan 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—</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."</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 Daśaratha, 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—</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: "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."</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Welcome, O glorious being! Say</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>How can my care thy grace repay,"</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"The Gods accept thy worship—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—</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."</span><br /> +</div> +<br /> +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Yea, O my lord," 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 Kauśalyá said:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"This genial nectar take and quaff,"</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;'>Sumitrá 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;'>Kaikeyí 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 Sumitrá, 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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</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;'>Báli, 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 Sugríva's sire.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Tára, the mighty monkey, he</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was offspring of Vrihaspati—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Tára the matchless chieftain, boast</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For wisdom of the Vánar host.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Gandhamádan 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 Viśvakarmá came.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>From Agni, Níla 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 Aśvins, 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 Śarabh, he who sends the rain.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hanumán, best of monkey kind,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was son of him who breathes the wind—</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—</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 Vánar 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—</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 Vánar 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;'>Sugríva, offspring of the Sun,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Báli, 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 Báli'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—</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 Ráma'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 Aśvamedh, 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 Daśaratha, ere they went,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Addressed them thus benevolent:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus did the King the kings exhort—</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 Bráhmans led—</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, Rishyaśring, well-honored sage,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Śántá, 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 Vaśishtha 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 Śántá 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 Paulomí'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—</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 Rishyaśring</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Drew near and thus besought the King:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Return, my honored lord, I pray,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Return, upon thy homeward way."</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Kauśalyá and Sumitrá dear,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thou, my sweet Kaikeyí, hear—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All upon Śántá feast your gaze,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The last time for a length of days."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To 'Śántá'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, "O, happy be the life</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of this great Bráhman 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 Śántá, 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—</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 Bráhman 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."</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 Rishyaśring's command</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Some soldiers of his royal band.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The Bráhman bowed in turn and cried,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</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 Daśaratha 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—</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 Champá, Lomapád'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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Hail, Sage," he cried, "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."</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 Rishyaśring elate</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Entered the royal city's gate—</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>RISHYAŚRING'S DEPARTURE</h4> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The monarch called a Bráhman near</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And said, "Now speed away</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Kaśyap's son, the mighty seer,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And with all reverence say—</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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Soon as the King these words had said,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Kaśyap's son the Bráhman 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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"The high-souled father of his bride</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Had called thy son his rites to guide—</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."</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;'>"What may we do for thee?" they said.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then he, of Bráhmans first and best,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The gathered people thus addressed:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Now tell me, for I fain would know,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Why is it I am honored so?"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>They to the high-souled saint replied:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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 Bráhman, let thy mind be still."</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The best of Bráhmans answer made:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</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 Śántá came,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Stood by the mighty saint and cried:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"See, honor's source, thy son's dear bride."</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—</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;'>Kauśalyá bore an infant blest</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With heavenly marks of grace impressed;</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ráma, 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 Kauśalyá 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 Rávan 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 Kaikeyí 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;'>Sumitrá too a noble pair,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Called Lakshman and Śatrughna, 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, Mína'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 Sumitrá'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 Proshthapadá'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 Ayodhyá, 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—</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 Bráhmans 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 Vaśishtha, rapt with joy,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Assigned a name to every boy.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ráma, to him the high-souled heir,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bharat, to him Kaikeyí bare—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Queen Sumitrá one fair son</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was Lakshman, and Śatrughna one.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ráma, 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 preëminent,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like the full moon unclouded shone</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ráma, 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—</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 Ráma shared</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He could not taste the meal prepared.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When Ráma, 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 Ráma 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 Śatrughna 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 Daśaratha 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>VIŚVÁMITRA'S VISIT</h4> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Now Daśaratha'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 Ayodhyá'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 Viśvámitra 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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Haste, warders, to your master run,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And say that here stands Gádhi's son."</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 Brahmá'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 Kusík 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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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?"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then he, of hermits first and best,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Vaśishtha 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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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—</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—</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 Bráhman 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 Bráhman 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—</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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My deity, O Lord, art thou."</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>VIŚVÁMITRA'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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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, Vaśishtha 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—</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—</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 Ráma'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 Ráma, 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 Ráma well</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In whom high thoughts and valor dwell;</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So does Vaśishtha, 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 Ráma 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 Vaśishtha 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 Ráma 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 Ráma 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."</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>DAŚARATHA'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 Viśvámitra spoke at length:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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;'>Ráma, 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;'>Ráma, 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 Ráma reft, to live one hour—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Mine aged heart at once would break:</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ráma, 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;'>Ráma, 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."</span><br /> +</div> +<br /> +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Viśvámitra thus replied:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Sprung from Pulastya's race there came</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A giant known by Rávan'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;'>Viśravas 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 Rávan's dread commands impel</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Two demons who in might excel,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Márícha and Suváhu Light,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To trouble and impede the rite."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then thus the King addressed the sage:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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 Rávan 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;'>Márícha and Suváhu 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."</span><br /> +</div> + + +<hr style='width: 25%;' /> +<a name='CANTO_XXIII'></a><h3>CANTO XXIII</h3> + +<h4>VAŚISHTHA'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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>As Viśvámitra, 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 Vaśishtha, 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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Thou, born of old Ikshváku'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 Ráma 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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nor vanquish him in battle field,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For Kuśik'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—</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 Kuśik'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 Kriśáśva, pleased, conveyed.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Kriśáśva'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;'>Jayá and Vijayá, most fair,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A hundred splendid weapons bare;</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of Jayá, 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 Vijayá the beauteous dame,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sanháras 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 Ráma'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 Ráma put those fiends to rout.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For Ráma 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."</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;'>Vaśishtha 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;'>Ráma 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;'>Vaśishtha blessed him ere he went,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>O'er his loved head the father bent—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And then to Kuśik's son resigned</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ráma with Lakshman close behind.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Standing by Viśvámitra'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 Ráma, dear to fame,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Whose locks were like the raven's wing:—</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;'>Ráma 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 Aśvins, 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, Śiva's self who led the way.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Upon fair Sarjú'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 Ráma said: "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—</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—</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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then Ráma 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:—</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 Sarjú'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 Ráma said,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who lay upon his leafy bed:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</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 Viśvámitra 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 Sarjú's side</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Where mix her waters confluent</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With three-pathed Gangá'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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hermit, smiling, made reply</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To the two boys' request:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Hear, Ráma, who in days gone by</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>This calm retreat possessed—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Kandarpa in apparent form,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>(Called Káma by the wise,)</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Dared Umá'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 Sthánu'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 Sthánu 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;'>Káma 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:—</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 Káma, and remain</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>One night in comfort there."</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 Kuśik's son the gift they gave</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That honored guest should greet—</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;'>Ráma and Lakshman next obtained</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In due degree their share—</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:—</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 TÁDAKÁ</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, "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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With nought to check thee or delay."</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;'>Ráma 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 Ráma asked the mighty seer:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"What is the tumult that I hear</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of waters cleft in mid-career?"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Soon as the speech of Ráma, 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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"On high Kailása'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 Brahmá's will,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The name of Mánas take.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thence, hallowing where'er they flow,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The streams of Sarjú fall,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And wandering through the plains below</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Embrace Ayodhyá's wall.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Still, still preserved in Sarjú's name</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sarovar's fame we trace,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The flood of Brahmá 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 Gangá here she hies</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With tributary wave—</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."</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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;'>Dháo, Sál, 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?"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The glorious saint this answer made:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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 Karúsha 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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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 Karúsha'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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"So be it," all the Immortals cried,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>When Indra's speech they heard—</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;'>"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;'>Tádaká, wearing shapes at will—</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 Márícha 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 Ráma, 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—</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."</span><br /> +</div> + + +<hr style='width: 25%;' /> +<a name='CANTO_XXVII'></a><h3>CANTO XXVII</h3> + +<h4>THE BIRTH OF TÁDAKÁ</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;'>Ráma again the saint addressed,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To set one lingering doubt at rest:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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?"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Viśvámitra thus replied</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Raghu's son, the glorified:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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;'>Tádaká named, most fair to see,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A pearl among the maids was she—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And matched, for such was Brahmá'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, Márícha 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 Márícha's doom:—</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 Tádaká this curse he laid:—</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, Ráma, 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 Bráhmans 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—</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:—</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, Ráma, 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 Manthará, 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 Kávya'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."</span><br /> +</div> + + +<hr style='width: 25%;' /> +<a name='CANTO_XXVIII'></a><h3>CANTO XXVIII</h3> + +<h4>THE DEATH OF TÁDAKÁ</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—</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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 Tádaká who joys in ill—</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 Bráhmans, kine, and all the land,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Obedient, heart and soul, I stand."</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 Tádaká 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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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—with minished force—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To check her in her evil course."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While thus he spoke, by rage impelled—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Roaring as she came nigh,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The fiend her course at Ráma 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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Fight, and be fortunate."</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 Ráma 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 wingèd 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 Tádaká still thundered near</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus maimed by Ráma'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 Gádhi'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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Enough of mercy, Ráma, 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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then Ráma, skilful to direct</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His arrow to the sound—</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 Ráma and his arrowy net—</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—</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 Ráma 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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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 Ráma'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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To thee entrusted long ago</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>By great Kriśáśva 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."</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—</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 Ráma's forehead pressed,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thus the conquering chief addressed:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"O Ráma, 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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The son of Daśaratha heard,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Delighted, Viśvámitra's word—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And as he bade, that night he spent</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In Tádaká'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—</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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—</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:—</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 Śiva's trident, sharp and dread,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And that dire weapon, Brahmá'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—</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:—</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 Śiva'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—</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—</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 Káma 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 Viśvakarmá'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."</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 Ráma, 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—</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 Ráma with exulting cries:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"O noblest child of Raghu, see,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thy ministers and thralls are we."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With joyful heart and eager hand</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ráma received the wondrous band,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thus with words of welcome cried:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Aye present to my will abide"—</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;'>Ráma, now passing on his way,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus to the saint began to say:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</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;'>"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—</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:—</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;'>Kriśáśva's mystic sons are they,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And worthy thou their might to sway."</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—</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—</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Thy thralls, O Ráma, here we stand—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Command, we pray, thy faithful band."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Depart," he cried, "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."</span><br /> +</div> +<br /> +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Ráma then they lowly bent,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And round him in due reverence went—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To his command they answered, "Yea,"</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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—I feel</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>So sweet a tremor o'er me steal—</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—</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."</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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—</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—</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:—</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:—</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—</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—</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."</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 Ráma 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—</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—</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</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—</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 Viśvámitra 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>VIŚVÁMITRA'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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Kúśik's hermit son addressed,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In timely words, their meet request:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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 Díkshá has begun,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And all that time will speak to none."</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—</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 Ráma cried: "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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>While thus spoke Ráma, 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—</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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Márícha, Rover of the Night,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Suváhu, 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 Ráma 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 Ráma lotus-eyed:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</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;'>Márícha 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 Ráma, 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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</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 Suváhu 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—</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 Ráma for his wondrous aid:—</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 Viśvámitra gazed around—</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"My joy, O Prince, is now complete—</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."</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—</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Here stand, O lord, thy servants true—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Command what thou wouldst have us do."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The saints, by Viśvámitra led,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To Ráma thus in answer said:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Janak, the king who rules the land</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of fertile Mithilá, 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—</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 Mithilá, 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—</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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then Ráma answering, "Be it so,"</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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 Gangá's northern shore I go</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Beneath Himálaya's peaks of snow."</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—</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 Śona'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—</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;'>Ráma and Lakshman lowly bowed</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In reverence to the hermit crowd—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Ráma, 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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Moved by the prayer of Ráma, 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 Brahmá's seed who bore</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The name of Kúsa 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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</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;'>Kuśámba, prince of high renown,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was builder of Kauśámbí's town,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Kuśanábha, just and wise,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bade high Mahodaya's towers arise.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Amúrtarajas chose to dwell</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In Dharmáranya'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;'>Sumágadhí, 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—</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 Ghritáchí, nymph most fair,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Married to Kuśanábha, 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—</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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"I love you all, sweet girls," he cried,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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,"</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"O mighty Wind, free spirit who</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>All life pervadest, through and through—</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 Kuśanábha, 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—</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."</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—</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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And grieving, thus he cried aloud:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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:—</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."</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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—</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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The maidens went, consoled, away:—</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 Kanyákubja's borrowed name.</span><br /> +</div> +<br /> +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>There lived a sage called Chúli 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 Urmílá draw near—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sweet Somadá, 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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Grateful am I for all thy care—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Blest maiden, speak, thy wish declare."</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</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, Chúli'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 Kámpilí maintained his state—</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 Kuśanábha 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 Kuśanábha 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 Kuśanábha praised.</span><br /> +</div> + + +<hr style='width: 25%;' /> +<a name='CANTO_XXXV'></a><h3>CANTO XXXV</h3> + +<h4>VIŚVÁMITRA'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 Kuśa, Brahmá's son, appeared,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And thus King Kuśanábha cheered:—</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, Gádhi 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 Brahmá'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;'>Gádhi 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 Kúsa's race.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My sister—elder-born was she—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The pure and good Satyavatí,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was to the great Richíka 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 Himálaya'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 Himálaya'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 Ráma, 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, Ráma, 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—</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."</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;'>"Well done! well done," with reverence cried,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"The mighty men of Kuśa's seed</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Were ever famed for righteous deed.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Like Brahmá's self in glory shine</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The high-souled lords of Kuśa'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—fairest she</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of streams, the high-born Kauśikí—</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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thus by the chief of saints addressed</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The son of Gádhi 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;'>Ráma, 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 GANGÁ</h4> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hours of night now waning fast</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>On Śona'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 Ráma thus the hermit spake:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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, Ráma, rise, dear son, I pray,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And make thee ready for the way."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Then Ráma rose, and finished all</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His duties at the hermit's call—</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Here fair and deep the Śona 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?"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The saint replied: "The way I choose</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is that which pious hermits use."</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 Jáhnaví, 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 sárases 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 Viśvámitra, 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 Ráma said: "O Saint, I yearn</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The three-pathed Gangá's tale to learn."</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 Gangá and her growth:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"The mighty hill with metals stored,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Himálaya, 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—</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;'>Mená, Himálaya's darling, graced</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With beauty of her dainty waist.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Gangá was elder-born:—then came</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The fair one known by Umá'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 Gangá's help their vows to speed,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To great Himálaya 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;'>Gangá whose waters cleanse and save—</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 Gangá 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 Umá 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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Matching with that unequalled Lord</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His Umá 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—</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 Gangá, King Himálaya'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."</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 Ráma's ear—</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"There reigned a pious monarch o'er</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ayodhyá in the days of yore:</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sagar his name:—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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Keśiní, 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 Himálaya'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:—</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'Which queen, O Bráhman, 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:—</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 Keśiní</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 Bráhman sued</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That she might bear the multitude—</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—</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 Sarjú's waves that hurried past—</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 Anśumán, 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."</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—the tale was done:—</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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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,"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The hermit answered with a smile:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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 Himálaya'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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A land the best for rites declared—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His sacrifice the king prepared.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Anśumán the prince—for so</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sagar advised—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:—</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:—</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—</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—</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—</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 Jambudvíp</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—</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:—</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;'>"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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'The wisest Vásudeva, 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:—</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:—</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—</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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Famed Virúpáksha 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—</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 Mahápadma held his place,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The best of all his mighty race—</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—no thought of rest or stay—</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 Vásudeva 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:—</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 Anśumán 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—</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—</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:—</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—</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—</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—</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 Vinatá began:—</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;'>Gangá 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 Anśumán 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—</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>BHAGÍRATH</h4> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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 Anśumán 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 Dilípa 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 Himálaya'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 Gangá 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;'>Dilípa 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, Bhagírath named,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Above all men for virtue famed.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Dilípa 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 Bhagírath, 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—</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 Brahmá's favor was assured—</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:—</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;'>Bhagírath, 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:—</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 Gangá with her holy wave</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The ashes of the heroes lave—</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 Ikshváku'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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>'High, high thy thought and wishes are,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bhagírath of the mighty car!</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ikshváku'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;'>Gangá, 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 Śiva that his aid be lent</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To hold her in her mid-descent—</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."</span><br /> +</div> + + +<hr style='width: 45%;' /> +<a name='AKOONTALA'></a><h2>ŚAKOONTALÁ</h2> + +<h4>BY</h4> + +<h3>KÁLIDÁSA</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—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.</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 preëminent 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 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 <i>dénouement</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 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.</p> + +<p>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 +<i>keśara</i>-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 <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 Śakoontalá. This is the +opening episode of their love.</p> + +<p>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 <i>kusha-grass</i> 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.</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. "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 <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. 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.</p> + +<p>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?"</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 +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."</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 +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.</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 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.</p> + +<p>E.W.</p> + +<a name='DRAMATIS_PERSONAE'></a><h4>DRAMATIS PERSONÆ</h4> + +<p>DUSHYANTA, King of India.</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA, the Jester, friend and companion of the King.</p> + +<p>KANWA, chief of the Hermits, foster-father of Śakoontalá.</p> + +<p>SÁRNGARAVA, SÁRADWATA, two Bráhmans, belonging to the hermitage of +Kanwa.</p> + +<p>MITRÁVASU, brother-in-law of the King, and Superintendent of the city +police.</p> + +<p>JÁNUKA, SÚCHAKA, two constables.</p> + +<p>VÁTÁYANA, the Chamberlain or attendant on the women's apartments.</p> + +<p>SOMARÁTA, the domestic Priest.</p> + +<p>KARABHAKA, a messenger of the Queen-mother.</p> + +<p>RAIVATAKA, the warder or door-keeper.</p> + +<p>MÁTALI, charioteer of Indra.</p> + +<p>SARVA-DAMANA, afterwards Bharata, a little boy, son of Dushyanta by +Śakoontalá.</p> + +<p>KAŚYAPA, a divine sage, progenitor of men and gods, son of Maríchi and +grandson of Brahmá.</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ, daughter of the sage Viśwámitra and the nymph Menaká, +foster-child of the hermit Kanwa.</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ and ANASÚYÁ, female attendants, companions of Śakoontalá.</p> + +<p>GAUTAMÍ, a holy matron, Superior of the female inhabitants of the +hermitage.</p> + +<p>VASUMATÍ, the Queen of Dushyanta.</p> + +<p>SÁNUMATÍ, a nymph, friend of Śakoontalá.</p> + +<p>TARALIKÁ, personal attendant of the King.</p> + +<p>CHATURIKÁ, personal attendant of the Queen.</p> + +<p>VETRAVATÍ, female warder, or door-keeper.</p> + +<p>PARABARITIKÁ and MADHUKARIKÁ, maidens in charge of the royal gardens.</p> + +<p>SUVRATÁ, a nurse.</p> + +<p>ADITI, wife of Kaśyapa; grand-daughter of Brahmá, 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, "Śakuntalá" has been spelt "Śa-koontalá," 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>í</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 (ś) 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>ŚAKOONTALÁ</h2> + +<a name='PROLOGUE'></a><h3>PROLOGUE</h3> + +<h4>Benediction</h4> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Iśa preserve you! he who is revealed</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In these eight forms by man perceptible—</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 "The place of birth</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Of all material essences and things";</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>]—Lady, when you have finished attiring yourself, come +this way.</p> + +<p>ACTRESS [<i>entering.</i>]—Here I am, Sir; what are your commands?</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>ACTRESS,—You, Sir, have so judiciously managed the cast of the +characters, that nothing will be defective in the acting.</p> + +STAGE-MANAGER.—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>].—You judge correctly. And now, what are your +commands?</p> + +<p>STAGE-MANAGER.—What can you do better than engage the attention of the +audience by some captivating melody?</p> + +<p>ACTRESS.—Which among the seasons shall I select as the subject of my +song?</p> + +<p>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 +<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 Pátalas; 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.—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 Śirísha 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.—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.—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.</p> + +STAGE-MANAGER.—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.—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>].— +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.—Charioteer, this fleet antelope has drawn us far from my +attendants. See! there he runs:—</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.—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.—Loosen the reins, then.</p> + +<p>CHARIOTEER.—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>].—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>].—Hold, O King! this deer belongs to our +hermitage. Kill it not! kill it not!</p> + +<p>CHARIOTEER [<i>listening and looking</i>].—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>].—Then stop the horses.</p> + +<p>CHARIOTEER.—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>].—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 barbèd 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.—'Tis done. <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Replaces the arrow in its quiver</i>.<br /></span></p> + +HERMIT.—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>].—May heaven indeed grant +thee a son, a sovereign of the earth from sea to sea!</p> + +<p>KING [<i>bowing.</i>]—I accept with gratitude a Bráhman's benediction.</p> + +<p>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.<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.—Is the Chief of your Society now at home?</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>KING.—Good! I will pay her a visit. She will make me acquainted with +the mighty sage's acts of penance and devotion.</p> + +HERMIT.—And we will depart on our errand.<br /> +<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exit with his companions</i>.</span><br /> + +<p>KING.—Charioteer, urge on the horses. We will at least purify our souls +by a sight of this hallowed retreat.</p> + +CHARIOTEER.—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>].—Charioteer, even without being told, I +should have known that these were the precincts of a grove consecrated +to penitential rites.</p> + +<p>CHARIOTEER.—How so?</p> + +KING.—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 Ingudí.</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.—I observe it all.</p> + +<p>KING [<i>advancing a little further</i>].—The inhabitants of this sacred +retreat must not be disturbed. Stay the chariot, that I may alight.</p> + +<p>CHARIOTEER.—The reins are held in. Your Majesty may descend.</p> + +<p>KING [<i>alighting</i>].—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.—I will. <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exit</i>.</span></p> + +<p>KING [<i>walking and looking about</i>].—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>].—This way, my dear companions; this way.</p> + +<p>KING [<i>listening</i>].—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 Śakoontalá, with her two female companions, employed in the +manner described</i>.</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ.—This way, my dear companions; this way.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>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.<br /> +<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Continues watering the shrubs</i>.</span></p><br /> + +<p>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.</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—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>ŚAKOONTALÁ.—Good Anasúyá, Priyamvadá has drawn this bark-dress too +tightly about my chest. I pray thee, loosen it a little.</p> + +<p>ANASÚYÁ.—I will. <span style='float: right;'> [<i>Loosens it</i>.</span></p><br /> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ [<i>smiling</i>].—Why do you lay the blame on me? Blame rather +your own blooming youthfulness which imparts fulness to your bosom.</p> + +KING.—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>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>looking before her</i>].—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. <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Walks towards it</i>.</span></p><br /> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ.—Dear Śakoontalá, prithee, rest in that attitude one moment.</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ.—Why so?</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ.—The Keśara-tree, whilst your graceful form bends about its +stem, appears as if it were wedded to some lovely twining creeper.</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ.—Ah! saucy girl, you are most appropriately named Priyamvadá +("Speaker of flattering things").</p> + +<p>KING.—What Priyamvadá 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>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?</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ.—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>PRIYAMVADÁ [<i>smiling</i>].—Do you know, my Anasúyá, why Śakoontalá gazes +so intently at the jasmine?</p> + +<p>ANASÚYÁ.—No, indeed, I cannot imagine. I pray thee tell me.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ.—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.—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:—<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>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>in a flurry</i>].—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>].—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>ŚAKOONTALÁ.—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>PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ.—How can we deliver you? Call Dushyanta to your +aid. The sacred groves are under the king's special protection.</p> + +<p>KING.—An excellent opportunity for me to show myself. Fear +not—[<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>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>moving a step or two further off</i>].—What! it still +persists in following me.</p> + +<p>KING [<i>advancing hastily</i>].—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>ANASÚYÁ.—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 Śakoontalá</i>.</span><br /> + +<p>KING [<i>turning to Śakoontalá</i>].—I trust all is well with your +devotional rites?</p> + +<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Śakoontalá stands confused and silent</i>.<br /></span><br /> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>KING.—The rites of hospitality are already performed; your truly kind +words are the best offering I can receive.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>KING.—You, too, must all be fatigued by your employment.</p> + +<p>ANASÚYÁ.—Dear Śakoontalá, 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>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>aside</i>].—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>].—How charmingly your friendship is +in keeping with the equality of your ages and appearance!</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ [<i>aside to Anasúyá</i>].—Who can this person be, whose lively +yet dignified manner, and polite conversation, bespeak him a man of high +rank?</p> + +<p>ANASÚYÁ.—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>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>aside</i>].—Be not troubled, O my heart, Anasúyá is giving +utterance to thy thoughts.</p> + +<p>KING [<i>aside</i>].—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>ANASÚYÁ.—The hermits, then, and all the members of our religious +society have now a guardian.</p> + +<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Śakoontalá gazes bashfully at the King</i>.</span><br /> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ [<i>perceiving the state of her feelings, and of +the King's. Aside to Śakoontalá</i>].—Dear Śakoontalá, if father Kanwa +were but at home to-day———</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>angrily</i>].—What if he were?</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ.—He would honor this our distinguished guest +with an offering of the most precious of his possessions.</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ.—Go to! you have some silly idea in your minds. I will not +listen to such remarks.</p> + +<p>KING.—May I be allowed, in my turn, to ask you maidens a few +particulars respecting your friend?</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ.—Your request, Sir, is an honor.</p> + +<p>KING.—The sage Kanwa lives in the constant practice of austerities. +How, then, can this friend of yours be called his daughter?</p> + +<p>ANASÚYÁ.—I will explain to you, Sir. You have heard of an illustrious +sage of regal caste, Viśwámitra, whose family name is Kaúsika.</p> + +<p>KING.—I have.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>KING.—"Deserted by her mother!" My curiosity is excited; pray let me +hear the story from the beginning.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>KING.—The inferior gods, I am aware, are jealous of the power which the +practice of excessive devotion confers on mortals.</p> + +<p>ANASÚYÁ.—Well, then, it happened that Viśwámitra, gazing on the +bewitching beauty of that nymph at a season when, spring being in its +glory———<br /> +<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Stops short, and appears confused</i>.</span><br /> + +<p>KING.—The rest may be easily divined. Śakoontalá, then, is the +offspring of the nymph.</p> + +<p>ANASÚYÁ.—Just so.</p> + +KING.—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>Śakoontalá 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>PRIYAMVADÁ [<i>looking with a smile at Śakoontalá, and then turning +towards the King</i>].—You seem desirous, Sir, of asking something +further.</p> + +<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Śakoontalá makes a chiding gesture with her finger</i>.</span><br /> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ.—Scruple not to do so. Persons who lead the life of hermits +may be questioned unreservedly.</p> + +KING.—I wish to ascertain one point respecting your friend—<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>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.</p> + +KING [<i>aside</i>].—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>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>pretending anger</i>].—Anasúyá, I shall leave you.</p> + +<p>ANASÚYÁ.—Why so?</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ.—That I may go and report this impertinent Priyamvadá to the +venerable matron, Gautamí.<a name="FNanchor34"></a><a href="#Footnote_34"><sup>[34]</sup></a></p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Śakoontalá, without answering a word, moves away</i>.</span><br /> + +<p>KING [<i>making a movement to arrest her departure, but checking himself. +Aside</i>].—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>PRIYAMVADÁ [<i>holding Śakoontalá back</i>].—Dear Śakoontalá, it does not +become you to go away in this manner.</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>frowning</i>].—Why not, pray?</p> + +<p>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.<br /> +<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Forces her to turn back</i>.</span><br /> + +<p>KING.—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 Śirísha 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 Priyamvadá. Both the maidens, reading the name +Dushyanta on the seal, look at each other with surprise.</i></p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>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. [<i>With a smile</i>.] Now, Śakoontalá my love, you are +at liberty to retire, thanks to the intercession of this noble stranger, +or rather of this mighty prince.</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>aside</i>].—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 Śakoontalá. Aside</i>].—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>].—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>].—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>PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ.—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>].—Go, gentle maidens. It shall be our care that no +injury happen to the hermitage. [<i>All rise up</i>.</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ.—After such poor hospitality we are ashamed to +request the honor of a second visit from you.</p> + +<p>KING.—Say not so. The mere sight of you, sweet maidens, has been to me +the best entertainment.</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ.—Anasúyá, a pointed blade of Kuśa-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.—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.<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.—A Plain on the Skirts of the Forest</h4> +<br /> + +<p><i>Enter the Jester, Máthavya, in a melancholy mood</i>.</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA [<i>sighing</i>].—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. +[[<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.—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>MÁTHAVYA [<i>still in the same attitude</i>].—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.—Why, what has paralyzed your limbs?</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA.—You might as well ask me how my eye comes to water after you +have poked your finger into it.</p> + +<p>KING.—I don't understand you; speak more intelligibly.</p> + +<p>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?</p> + +<p>KING.—The current of the river causes it, I suppose.</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA.—Aye; just as you are the cause of my crippled limbs.</p> + +<p>KING.—How so?</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>KING [<i>aside</i>].—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>MÁTHAVYA [<i>looking in the King's face</i>].—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>].—I was only thinking that I ought not to disregard a +friend's request.</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA.—Then may the King live forever!</p> <span style="float: right;">[<i>Moves off</i>.</span><br /> + +<p>KING.—Stay a moment, my dear friend. I have something else to say to +you.</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA.—Say on, then.</p> + +<p>KING.—When you have rested, you must assist me in another business, +which will give you no fatigue.</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA.—In eating something nice, I hope.</p> + +<p>KING.—You shall know at some future time.</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA.—No time better than the present.</p> + +<p>KING.—What ho! there.</p> + +<p>WARDER [<i>entering</i>].—What are your Majesty's commands?</p> + +<p>KING.—O Raivataka! bid the General of the forces attend.</p> + +<p>WARDER.—I will, Sire. [<i>Exit and reënters 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>].—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.—My friend Máthavya here has been disparaging the chase, till he +has taken away all my relish for it.</p> + +<p>GENERAL [<i>aside to Máthavya</i>].—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>MÁTHAVYA [<i>angrily</i>].—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.—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.—So please your Majesty, it shall be as you desire.</p> + +<p>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.<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:—</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.—Your Majesty's commands shall be obeyed.</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA.—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>].—Here, women, take my hunting-dress; +and you, Raivataka, keep guard carefully outside.</p> + +<p>ATTENDANTS.—We will, sire.</p> <span style="float: right;">[<i>Exeunt.</i></span><br /> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>KING.—Go you, and sit down first.</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA.—Come along, then.</p> + +<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Both walk on a little way, and seat themselves</i>.</span><br /> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA.—How can you say so, when I see your Majesty before me at this +moment?</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA [<i>aside</i>].—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.—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;—</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>MÁTHAVYA [<i>smiling</i>].—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.—You have not seen her, or you would not talk in this fashion.</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA.—I can quite understand it must require something surpassingly +attractive to excite the admiration of such a great man as you.</p> + +KING.—I will describe her, my dear friend, in a few words—<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:—</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>MÁTHAVYA.—If that's the case, she must indeed throw all other beauties +into the shade.</p> + +KING.—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>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.</p> + +<p>KING.—The lady is not her own mistress, and her foster-father is not at +home.</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA.—Well, but tell me, did she look at all kindly upon you?</p> + +<p>KING.—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>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.</p> + +<p>KING.—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;'>"My foot is wounded by this prickly grass."</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>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.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA.—There is but one expedient that I can suggest. You are the +King, are you not?</p> + +<p>KING.—What then?</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA.—Say you have come for the sixth part of their grain, which +they owe you for tribute.</p> + +<p>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,<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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A precious and imperishable gift.</span><br /> +</div> +<p>A VOICE [<i>behind the scenes</i>].—We are fortunate; here is the object of +our search.</p> + +<p>KING [<i>listening],</i>—Surely those must be the voices of hermits, to +judge by their deep tones.</p> + +<p>WARDER [<i>entering],</i>—Victory to the King! two young hermits are in +waiting outside, and solicit an audience of your Majesty.</p> + +<p>KING.—Introduce them immediately.</p> + +<p>WARDER.—I will, my liege. [<i>Goes out, and reënters 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.—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:—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And often chanted by inspired bards,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>His hallowed title of "Imperial Sage"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Ascends in joyous accents to the skies.</span><br /> +</div> +<p>SECOND HERMIT.—Bear in mind, Gautama, that this is the great Dushyanta, +the friend of Indra.</p> + +<p>FIRST HERMIT.—What of that?</p> + +SECOND HERMIT.—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>].—Victory to the King!</p> + +<p>KING [<i>rising from his seat</i>].—Hail to you both!</p> + +<p>BOTH THE HERMITS.—Heaven bless your Majesty!</p> + +<span style='float: right;'>[<i>They offer fruits</i>.</span><br /> + +<p>KING [<i>respectfully receiving the offering</i>].—Tell me, I pray you, the +object of your visit.</p> + +<p>BOTH THE HERMITS.—The inhabitants of the hermitage having heard of your +Majesty's sojourn in our neighborhood, make this humble petition.</p> + +<p>KING.—What are their commands?</p> + +<p>BOTH THE HERMITS.—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.—I am honored by your invitation.</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA [<i>aside</i>].—Most opportune and convenient, certainly!</p> + +<p>KING [<i>smiling</i>].—Ho! there, Raivataka! Tell the charioteer from me to +bring round the chariot with my bow.</p> + +<p>WARDER.—I will, Sire.</p> <span style="float: right;">[<i>Exit.</i></span><br /> + +<p>BOTH THE HERMITS [<i>joyfully</i>].—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>].—Go first, reverend Sirs, I will follow +you immediately.</p> + +<p>BOTH THE HERMITS.—May victory attend you! </p> <span style="float: right;">[<i>Exeunt.</i></span><br /> + +<p>KING.—My dear Máthavya, are you not full of longing to see Śakoontalá?</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>KING.—Never fear; you shall keep close to me for protection.</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA.—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—[<i>entering</i>].—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—[<i>respectfully</i>].—How say you? a messenger from the venerable +Queen?</p> + +<p>WARDER.—Even so.</p> + +<p>KING.—Introduce him at once.</p> + +<p>WARDER.—I will, Sire. [<i>Goes out, and re-ënters with Karabhaka</i>.] +Behold the King! Approach.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>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?</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>KING.—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 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.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>KING [<i>smiling</i>].—Oh! of course not; a great Bráhman like you could not +possibly give way to such weakness.</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA.—You must let me travel in a manner suitable to the King's +younger brother.</p> + +<p>KING.—Yes, I shall send my retinue with you, that there may be no +further disturbance in this sacred forest.</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA [<i>with a strut</i>].—Already I feel quite like a young prince.</p> + +<p>KING [<i>aside</i>].—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 +Máthavya, 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 Śakoontalá, 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>MÁTHAVYA.—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.—The Hermitage</h4> +<br /> + +<p><i>Enter a young Bráhman, carrying bundles of Kuśa-grass for the use of +the sacrificing priests</i>.</p> + +<p>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.<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 Kuśa-grass, to be strewn round the altar. [<i>Walking and +looking about; then addressing someone off the stage</i>.] Why, Priyamvadá, +for whose use are you carrying that ointment of Usíra-root and those +lotus leaves with fibres attached to them? [<i>Listening for her answer</i>.] +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.<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.—The Sacred Grove</h4> +<br /> + +<p><i>Enter King Dushyanta, with the air of one in love</i>.</p> + +KING [<i>sighing thoughtfully</i>].—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:—</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 Káma, 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?—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, +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. [<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>Śakoontalá and her two attendants, holding fans in their hands are +discovered as described</i>.</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ [<i>fanning her. In a tone of affection.</i>]—Dearest +Śakoontalá, is the breeze raised by these broad lotus leaves refreshing +to you?</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ.—Dear friends, why should you trouble yourselves to fan me?</p> + +<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Priyamvadá and Anasúyá look sorrowfully at one another.</i>]</span><br /> + +<p>KING.—Śakoontalá 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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No, love, and love alone, is hereto blame.</span><br /> +</div> +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ [<i>aside to Anasúyá.</i>]—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.</p> + +<p>ANASÚYÁ.—The same suspicion, dear Priyamvadá, has crossed my mind. But +I will at once ask her and ascertain the truth. [<i>Aloud.</i>] Dear +Śakoontalá, I am about to put a question to you. Your indisposition is +really very serious.</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>half-rising from her couch</i>].—What were you going to ask?</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>KING.—Anasúyá bears me out in my suspicion.</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>aside</i>].—I am, indeed, deeply in love; but cannot rashly +disclose my passion to these young girls.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +KING.—Priyamvadá 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;—as when the vernal blasts</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sear the young blossoms of the Mádhaví,</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>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.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>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—<br /> +<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Stops short, and appears confused.</i>]</span><br /> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ.—Say on, dear Śakoontalá, say on.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>KING [<i>with rapture</i>].—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>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.</p> + +<p>KING [<i>with rapture</i>].—Enough! These words remove all my doubts.</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ [<i>aside to Anasúyá</i>].—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.</p> + +<p>ANASÚYÁ.—I quite agree with you.</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ [<i>aloud</i>].—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.</p> + +<p>KING.—Why need we wonder if the beautiful constellation Viśákhá pines +to be united with the Moon.</p> + +<p>ANASÚYÁ.—By what stratagem can we best secure to our friend the +accomplishment of her heart's desire, both speedily and secretly?</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ.—The latter point is all we have to think about. As to +"speedily," I look upon the whole affair as already settled.</p> + +<p>ANASÚYÁ.—How so?</p> + +<p>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?</p> + +<p>KING [<i>looking at himself</i>].—Quite true! I certainly am becoming thin +from want of sleep:—<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>PRIYAMVADÁ [<i>thoughtfully</i>].—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.</p> + +<p>ANASÚYÁ.—A very ingenious device! It has my entire approval; but what +says Śakoontalá?</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ.—I must consider before I can consent to it.</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ.—Could you not, dear Śakoontalá, think of some pretty +composition in verse, containing a delicate declaration of your love?</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ.—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>].—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>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?</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>smiling</i>].—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.—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>ŚAKOONTALÁ.—Dear girls, I have thought of a verse, but I have no +writing-materials at hand.</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ.—Write the letters with your nail on this lotus leaf, which +is smooth as a parrot's breast.</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>after writing the verse</i>].—Listen, dear friends, and tell +me whether the ideas are appropriately expressed.</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ.—We are all attention.</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>reads</i>].—</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>].—</p> +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Nay, Love does but warm thee, fair maiden—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>PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ [<i>looking at him joyfully, and rising to salute +him</i>].—Welcome, the desire of our hearts, that so speedily presents +itself!</p> + +<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Śakoontalá makes an effort to rise.</i>]</span><br /> + +<p>KING.—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>ANASÚYÁ.—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. Śakoontalá is confused.</i>]</span><br /> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ.—Is it not your special office as a King to remove the +suffering of your subjects who are in trouble?</p> + +<p>KING.—Such is my duty, most assuredly.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>KING.—Excellent maiden, our attachment is mutual. It is I who am the +most honored by it.</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>looking at Priyamvadá</i>].—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.—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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Killed by thy words, as erst by Káma's shafts.</span><br /> +</div> +<p>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.</p> + +KING.—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;—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My sea-girt realm, and this most lovely maid.</span><br /> +</div> +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ.—We are satisfied by your assurances.</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ [<i>glancing on one side</i>],—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.</p> + +<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Both move away.</i>]</span><br /> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ.—Dear friends, dear friends, leave me not alone and +unprotected. Why need you both go?</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ.—Unprotected! when the Protector of the world is +at your side.</p> <span style="float: right;">[<i>Exeunt.</i>]</span><br /> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ.—What! have they both really left me?</p> + +<p>KING.—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>ŚAKOONTALÁ.—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.—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>ŚAKOONTALÁ.—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.—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>ŚAKOONTALÁ.—Leave me, leave me; I must take counsel with my female +friends.</p> + +<p>KING.—I will leave thee when———</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ.—When?</p> + +<p>KING.—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. Śakoontalá tries to prevent him</i>.</span><br /> + +<p>A VOICE [<i>behind the scenes</i>].—The loving birds, doomed by fate to +nightly separation, must bid farewell to each other, for evening is at +hand.</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>in confusion</i>].—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.</p> + +<p>KING.—I will.</p> <span style="float: right;">[<i>Conceals himself</i>.</span><br /> + +<p><i>Enter Gautamí with a vase in her hand, preceded by two attendants</i>.</p> + +<p>ATTENDANTS.—This way, most venerable Gautamí.</p> + +<p>GAUTAMÍ [<i>approaching Śakoontalá</i>].—My child, is the fever of thy limbs +allayed?</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ.—Venerable mother, there is certainly a change for the +better.</p> + +<p>GAUTAMÍ.—Let me sprinkle you with this holy water, and all your +ailments will depart. [<i>Sprinkling Śakoontalá 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>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>aside</i>].—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>].—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 +Śakoontalá.<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—</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>].—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.—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.—The Garden of the Hermitage</h4> +<br /> + +<p><i>Enter Priyamvadá and Anasúyá in the act of gathering flowers</i>.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ.—How so?</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>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?</p> + +<p>ANASÚYÁ.—In my opinion, he will approve the marriage.</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ.—What makes you think so?</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ [<i>looking at the flower-basket</i>].—We have gathered flowers +enough for the sacred offering, dear Anasúyá.</p> + +<p>ANASÚYÁ.—Well, then, let us now gather more, that we may have wherewith +to propitiate the guardian-deity of our dear Śakoontalá.</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ.—By all means. </p> <span style='float: right;'>[<i>They continue gathering</i>.</ br></span> + +<p>A VOICE [<i>behind the scenes</i>].—Ho there! See you not that I am here?</p> + +<p>ANASÚYÁ [<i>listening</i>].—That must be the voice of a guest announcing his +arrival.</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ.—Surely, Śakoontalá is not absent from the cottage. +[<i>Aside</i>.] Her heart at least is absent, I fear.</p> + +<p>ANASÚYÁ.—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>].—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—</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>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. [<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>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.</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ.—I will.</p> <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exit.</i></span><br /> + +<p>ANASÚYÁ [<i>advancing hastily a few steps and stumbling</i>].—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>PRIYAMVADÁ [<i>reëntering</i>].—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.</p> + +<p>ANASÚYÁ [<i>smiling</i>].—Even a little was much for him. Say on.</p> + +<p>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."</p> + +<p>ANASÚYÁ.—And what did he reply?</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ.—"My word must not be falsified; but at the sight of the +ring of recognition the spell shall cease." So saying, he disappeared.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ.—Come, dear Anasúyá, let us proceed with our religious +duties. <span style='float: right;'>[<i>They walk away</i>.</span></p><br /> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ [<i>looking off the stage</i>].—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.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ.—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.—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.—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 bereavèd 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>ANASÚYÁ [<i>entering abruptly</i>].—Little as I know of the ways of the +world, I cannot help thinking that King Dushyanta is treating Śakoontalá +very improperly.</p> + +<p>PUPIL.—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>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?</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ [<i>entering; joyfully</i>].—Quick! quick! Anasúyá! come and +assist in the joyful preparations for Śakoontalá's departure to her +husband's palace.</p> + +<p>ANASÚYÁ.—My dear girl, what can you mean?</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ.—Listen, now, and I will tell you all about it. I went just +now to Śakoontalá, to inquire whether she had slept comfortably—</p> + +<p>ANASÚYÁ.—Well, well; go on.</p> + +<p>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."</p> + +<p>ANASÚYÁ.—Who, then, informed the holy Father of what passed in his +absence?</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ.—As he was entering the sanctuary of the consecrated fire, +an invisible being chanted a verse in celestial strains.</p> + +<p>ANASÚYÁ [<i>with astonishment</i>].—Indeed! pray repeat it.</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ [<i>repeats the verse</i>].—</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>ANASÚYÁ [<i>embracing Priyamvadá</i>].—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.</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ.—We shall find means of consoling ourselves after her +departure. Let the dear creature only be made happy, at any cost.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ.—Very well.</ br> +<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exit Anasúyá. Priyamvadá takes down the flowers.</i></span></p></ br> + +<p>A VOICE [<i>behind the scenes</i>].—Gautamí, bid Śárngarava and the others +hold themselves in readiness to escort Śakoontalá.</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ [<i>listening</i>].—Quick, quick, Anasúyá! They are calling the +hermits who are to go with Śakoontalá to Hastinápur.</p> + +<p>ANASÚYÁ [<i>reëntering, with the perfumed unguents in her hand</i>].—Come +along then, Priyamvadá; I am ready to go with you. <span style='float: right;'>[<i>They walk away</i>.</span></p></ br> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ [<i>looking</i>].—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. <span style='float: right;'> [<i>They approach</i>.</span></p> + +<p><i>Śakoontalá is seen seated, with women surrounding her, occupied in the +manner described</i>.</p> + +<p>FIRST WOMAN [<i>to Śakoontalá</i>].—My child, may'st thou receive the title +of "Chief-queen," and may thy husband delight to honor thee above all +others!</p> + +<p>SECOND WOMAN.—My child, may'st thou be the mother of a hero!</p> + +<p>THIRD WOMAN.—My child, may'st thou be highly honored by thy lord!</p> + +<p>[<i>Exeunt all the women, excepting Gautamí, after blessing Śakoontalá.</i></p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ [<i>approaching</i>].—Dear Śakoontalá, we are come to +assist you at your toilet, and may a blessing attend it!</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ.—Welcome, dear friends, welcome. Sit down here.</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ [<i>taking the baskets containing the bridal +decorations, and sitting down</i>].—Now, then, dearest, prepare to let us +dress you. We must first rub your limbs with these perfumed unguents.</p> + +<p>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. <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Bursts into tears</i>.</span></p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ.—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>PRIYAMVADÁ.—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.—Here are ornaments suitable for a queen.</p> + +<span style='float: right;'>[<i>The women look at them in astonishment</i>.</span><br /> + +<p>GAUTAMÍ.—Why, Nárada, my son, whence came these?</p> + +<p>FIRST HERMIT.—You owe them to the devotion of Father Kanwa.</p> + +<p>GAUTAMÍ.—Did he create them by the power of his own mind?</p> + +<p>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</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—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>PRIYAMVADÁ [<i>looking at Śakoontalá</i>].—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>Śakoontalá appears confused</i>.</span><br /> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>SECOND HERMIT.—By all means. <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exeunt.</i></span></p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ.—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.—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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bereft forever of an only daughter?</span><br /> +</div><p><span style='float: right;'>[<i>Advances towards Śakoontalá</i></span></p><br /> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ.—Now, dearest Śakoontalá, we have finished +decorating you. You have only to put on the two linen mantles. +<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Śakoontalá rises and puts them on</i>.</span></p><br /> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>reverently</i>].—My father, I salute you.</p> + +<p>KANWA.—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 Yayáti Śarmishthá 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>GAUTAMÍ.—Most venerable father, she accepts your benediction as if she +already possessed the boon it confers.</p> + +<p>KANWA.—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>].—<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 Kuśa-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;—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Hear, oh hear me, when I pray—</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, Śárngarava and the others?</p> + +<p>YOUNG HERMIT [<i>entering</i>].—Here we are, most venerable father.</p> + +<p>KANWA.—Lead the way for thy sister.</p> + +<p>SÁRNGARAVA.—Come, Śakoontalá, let us proceed.<br /> +<span style='float: right;'>[<i>All move away</i>.</span><br /></p> + +<p>KANWA.—Hear me, ye trees that surround our hermitage!<br /></p> +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Śakoontalá 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 Köil 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 Köil? they dismiss</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their dear Śakoontalá with loving wishes.</span><br /> +</div> +<p>VOICES [<i>in the air</i>].—<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>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.</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>bowing respectfully and walking on. Aside to her +friend</i>].—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.</p> + +<p>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.<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>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>recollecting herself</i>].—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.—Yes, yes, my child, I remember thy sisterly affection for the +creeper. Here it is on the right.</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>approaching the jasmine</i>],—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.—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—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>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>to Priyamvadá and Anasúyá</i>].—To you, my sweet companions, +I leave it as a keepsake. Take charge of it when I am gone.</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ [<i>bursting into tears</i>].—And to whose charge do +you leave us, dearest? Who will care for us when you are gone?</p> + +<p>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?<br /> +<span style='float: right;'>[<i>All move on</i>.</span></p><br /> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>KANWA.—I will not forget it.</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>feeling herself drawn back</i>].—What can this be, fastened +to my dress? <span style='float: right;'> [<i>Turns round</i>.</span></p><br /> + +<p>KANWA.—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>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. <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Moves on, weeping</i>.</span></p><br /> + +<p>KANWA.—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—</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>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.</p> + +<p>KANWA.—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>].—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>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>aside to Anasúyá</i>].—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.</p> + +<p>ANASÚYÁ.—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.—Śárngarava, when you have introduced Śakoontalá into the +presence of the King, you must give him this message from me.</p> + +<p>ŚÁRNGARAVA.—Let me hear it, venerable father.</p> + +<p>KANWA.—This is it—</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—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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In virtue of thine honorable rank—</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—the rest we freely leave</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To thy just feeling and to destiny.</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>ŚÁRNGARAVA.—A most suitable message. I will take care to deliver it +correctly.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>ŚÁRNGARAVA.—No, indeed. Wise men are conversant with all subjects.</p> + +<p>KANWA.—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 Gautamí of this advice?</p> + +<p>GAUTAMÍ.—An excellent compendium, truly, of every wife's duties! Lay it +well to heart, my daughter.</p> + +<p>KANWA.—Come, my beloved child, one parting embrace for me and for thy +companions, and then we leave thee.</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ.—My father, must Priyamvadá and Anasúyá really return with +you? They are very dear to me.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>embracing him</i>].—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.—Daughter, thy fears are groundless:—</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—a noble boy,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bright as the day-star—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>Śakoontalá throws herself at her foster-father's feet</i>.</span></p><br /> + +<p>KANWA.—Blessings on thee, my child! May all my hopes of thee be +realized!</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>approaching her friends</i>].—Come, my two loved companions, +embrace me—both of you together.</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ [<i>embracing her</i>].—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.</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ.—The bare thought of it puts me in a tremor.</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ.—There is no real cause for fear, dearest. +Excessive affection is too apt to suspect evil where none exists.</p> + +<p>ŚÁRNGARAVA.—Come, lady, we must hasten on. The sun is rising in the +heavens.</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>looking towards the hermitage</i>].—Dear father, when shall I +ever see this hallowed grove again?</p> + +<p>KANWA.—I will tell thee; listen—</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:—</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>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.</p> + +<p>KANWA.—Daughter, detain me no longer. My religious duties must not be +interrupted.</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>again embracing her foster-father</i>].—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>].—How, O my child, shall my bereavèd 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—</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 Śakoontalá with her escort</i>.</span></p><br /> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ [<i>gazing after Śakoontalá</i>].—Alas! alas! she is +gone, and now the trees hide our darling from our view.</p> + +<p>KANWA [<i>sighing</i>].—Well, Anasúyá, your sister has departed. Moderate +your grief, both of you, and follow me. I go back to the hermitage.</p> + +<p>PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ.—Holy father, the sacred grove will be a desert +without Śakoontalá. How can we ever return to it?</p> + +<p>KANWA.—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—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.—A Room in the Palace</h4> +<br /> + +<p><i>The King Dushyanta and the Jester Máthavya are discovered seated</i>.</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA [<i>listening</i>].—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.</p> + +<p>KING.—Hush! Let me listen.</p> + +<p>A VOICE [<i>sings behind the scenes</i>].—</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.—A most impassioned strain, truly!</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA.—Do you understand the meaning of the words?</p> + +<p>KING [<i>smiling</i>].—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.</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA.—Very well. [<i>Rising from his seat</i>.] 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.</p> + +<p>KING.—Go, go; you can disarm her wrath by a civil speech; but give her +my message.</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA.—What must be must be, I suppose. <span style='float: right;'> [<i>Exit.</i></span></p><br /> + +<p>KING [<i>aside</i>].—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.—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—</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:—</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—</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>].—A message from the sage Kanwa, did you say?</p> + +<p>CHAMBERLAIN.—Even so, my liege.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>CHAMBERLAIN.—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>].—Vetravatí, lead the way to +the chamber of the consecrated fire.</p> + +<p>WARDER.—This way, Sire.</p> + +<p>KING [<i>walking on, with the air of one oppressed by the cares of +government</i>].—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>].—May the King be victorious!</p> + +<p>FIRST HERALD.—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.—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.—Weary as I was before, this complimentary address has refreshed +me. <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Walks on</i>.</span></p><br /> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>KING [<i>leans on the shoulders of his attendants, and ascends</i>]. +Vetravatí, what can possibly be the message that the venerable Kanwa has +sent me by these hermits?—</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.—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 Śakoontalá, attended by Gautamí; and, in +advance of them, the Chamberlain and the domestic Priest.</i></p> + +<p>CHAMBERLAIN.—This way, reverend sirs, this way.</p> + +<p>ŚÁRNGARAVA.—O Śáradwata,</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>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.</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:—</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>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>feeling a quivering sensation in her right eyelid, and +suspecting a bad omen</i>],—Alas! what means this throbbing of my right +eyelid?</p> + +<p>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!<span style='float: right;'> [<i>Walks +on</i>.</span></p><br /> + +<p>PRIEST [<i>pointing to the King</i>].—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>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.</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:—</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.—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 Śakoontalá</i>].—But the lady there—</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.—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.—True; but it is not right to gaze at another man's wife.</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>placing her hand on her bosom. Aside</i>].—O my heart, why +this throbbing? Remember thy lord's affection, and take courage.</p> + +<p>PRIEST [<i>advancing</i>].—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.—I am all attention.</p> + +<p>HERMITS [<i>extending their hands</i>].—Victory to the King!</p> + +<p>KING.—Accept my respectful greeting.</p> + +<p>HERMITS.—May the desires of your soul be accomplished!</p> + +<p>KING.—I trust no one is molesting you in the prosecution of your +religious rites.</p> + +<p>HERMITS.—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.—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.</p> + +<p>HERMITS.—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.—Let me hear his commands.</p> + +<p>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</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 Śakoontalá</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Virtue herself in human form revealed.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Great Brahmá hath in equal yoke united</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A bride unto a husband worthy of her:—</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>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?</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>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>aside</i>].—Ah! how I tremble for my lord's reply.</p> + +<p>KING.—What strange proposal is this?</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>aside</i>].—His words are fire to me.</p> + +<p>ŚÁRNGARAVA.—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.—Do you really mean to assert that I ever married this lady?</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>despondingly. Aside</i>].—O my heart, thy worst misgivings +are confirmed.</p> + +<p>ŚÁRNGARAVA.—Is it becoming in a monarch to depart from the rules of +justice, because he repents of his engagements?</p> + +<p>KING.—I cannot answer a question which is based on a mere fabrication.</p> + +<p>SÁRNGARAVA.—Such inconstancy is fortunately not common, excepting in +men intoxicated by power.</p> + +<p>KING.—Is that remark aimed at me?</p> + +<p>GAUTAMÍ.—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 Śakoontalá. Aside</i>].—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.—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>SÁRNGARAVA.—Great King, why art thou silent?</p> + +<p>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?</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>aside</i>].—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>ŚÁRNGARAVA.—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>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.</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>aside</i>].—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. [<i>Aloud</i>.] +My revered husband—[<i>Stops short</i>.] 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.</p> + +<p>KING [<i>stopping his ears</i>].—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>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.</p> + +<p>KING.—An excellent idea!</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>feeling for the ring</i>].—Alas! alas! woe is me! There is no +ring on my finger!<br /> +<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Looks with anguish at Gautamí</i>.</span></p><br /> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>KING [<i>smiling</i>].—People may well talk of the readiness of woman's +invention! Here is an instance of it.</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ.—Say, rather, of the omnipotence of fate. I will mention +another circumstance, which may yet convince thee.</p> + +<p>KING.—By all means let me hear it at once.</p> + +<p>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—</p> + +<p>KING.—I am listening; proceed.</p> + +<p>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."</p> + +<p>KING.—Voluptuaries may allow themselves to be seduced from the path of +duty by falsehoods such as these, expressed in honeyed words.</p> + +<p>GAUTAMÍ.—Speak not thus, illustrious Prince. This lady was brought up +in a hermitage, and has never learnt deceit.</p> + +<p>KING.—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—much more</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In beings gifted with intelligence.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The wily Köil, 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>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>angrily</i>].—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.</p> + +<p>KING [<i>aside</i>].—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>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.<br /> +<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Covers her face with her mantle, and bursts into tears</i>.</span></p><br /> + +<p>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.</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.—How now! Do you give credence to this woman rather than to me, +that you heap such accusations on me?</p> + +<p>ŚÁRNGARAVA [<i>sarcastically</i>].—That would be too absurd, certainly. You +have heard the proverb—</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:—</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.—Most veracious Bráhman, grant that you are in the right, what end +would be gained by betraying this lady?</p> + +<p>ŚÁRNGARAVA.—Ruin.</p> + +<p>KING.—No one will believe that a Prince of Puru's race would seek to +ruin others or himself.</p> + +<p>ŚÁRADWATA.—This altercation is idle, Śárngarava. 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;'>Śakoontalá 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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The husband o'er the wife is absolute.</span><br /> +</div><p>Go on before us, Gautamí. <span style='float: right;'> [<i>They move away</i>.</span></p><br /> + +<p>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?<br /> +<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Attempts to follow them</i>.</span></p><br /> + +<p>GAUTAMÍ [<i>stopping</i>].—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?</p> + +<p>ŚÁRNGARAVA [<i>turning angrily towards her</i>].—Wilful woman, dost thou +seek to be independent of thy lord?<br /> +<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Śakoontalá trembles with fear</i>.</span></p><br /> + +<p>ŚÁRNGARAVA.—Śakoontalá!</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.—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>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?</p> + +<p>KING [<i>to the Priest</i>],—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>].—You must take an intermediate course.</p> + +<p>KING.—What course, revered sir? Tell me at once.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>KING.—I bow to the decision of my spiritual adviser.</p> + +<p>PRIEST.—Daughter, follow me.</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ.—O divine earth, open and receive me into thy bosom!</p> + +<p>[<i>Exit Śakoontalá 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>].—A miracle! a miracle!</p> + +<p>KING [<i>listening</i>].—What has happened now?</p> + +<p>PRIEST [<i>entering with an air of astonishment</i>].—Great Prince, a +stupendous prodigy has just occurred!</p> + +<p>KING.—What is it?</p> + +<p>PRIEST.—May it please your Majesty, so soon as Kanwa's pupils had +departed,</p> +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Śakoontalá, her eyes all bathed in tears,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>With outstretched arms bewailed her cruel fate—</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>KING.—Well, well, what happened then?</p> + +<p>PRIEST.—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.—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>].—Be it so. Victory to the King! <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exit.</i></span></p><br /> + +<p>KING.—Vetravatí, I am tired out; lead the way to the bed-chamber.</p> + +<p>WARDER.—This way, Sire. <span style='float: right;'>[<i>They move away</i>.</span></p><br /> + +<p>KING.—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—</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.—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>].—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.</p> + +<p>FISHERMAN [<i>with a gesture of alarm</i>].—Mercy! kind sirs, mercy! I did +not steal it; indeed I did not.</p> + +<p>FIRST CONSTABLE.—Oh! then I suppose the King took you for some fine +Bráhman, and made you a present of it?</p> + +<p>FISHERMAN.—Only hear me. I am but a poor fisherman, living at +Śakrávatára———</p> + +<p>SECOND CONSTABLE.—Scoundrel, who ever asked you, pray, for a history of +your birth and parentage?</p> + +<p>SUPERINTENDENT [<i>to one of the Constables</i>].—Súchaka, let the fellow +tell his own story from the beginning. Don't interrupt him.</p> + +<p>BOTH CONSTABLES.—As you please, master. Go on, then, sirrah, and say +what you've got to say.</p> + +<p>FISHERMAN.—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>].—A most refined occupation, certainly!</p> + +<p>FISHERMAN.—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.—Well, well; go on with your story.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>SUPERINTENDENT [<i>to one of the Constables</i>].—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.</p> + +<p>BOTH CONSTABLES.—Very good, master. Get on with you, you cutpurse.<br /> +<span style='float: right;'>[<i>All move on</i>.</span></p><br /> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>CONSTABLE.—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>].—I say, Jánuka, the +Superintendent is a long time away.</p> + +<p>SECOND CONSTABLE.—Aye, aye; kings are not to be got at so easily. Folks +must bide the proper opportunity.</p> + +<p>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.<br /> +<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Pretends to strike a blow at the fisherman</i>.</span></p><br /> + +<p>FISHERMAN.—Your honor surely will not put an innocent man to a cruel +death.</p> + +<p>SECOND CONSTABLE [<i>looking</i>].—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>].—Ho, there, Súchaka! set the fisherman at +liberty, I tell you. His story about the ring is all correct.</p> + +<p>SÚCHAKA.—Oh! very good, sir; as you please.</p> + +<p>SECOND CONSTABLE.—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>].—Now, master, what think you +of my way of getting a livelihood?</p> + +<p>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.<br /> +<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Gives him the money</i>.</span></p><br /> + +<p>FISHERMAN [<i>taking it and bowing</i>].—His Majesty does me too great +honor.</p> + +<p>SÚCHAKA.—You may well say so. He might as well have taken you from the +gallows to seat you on his state elephant.</p> + +<p>JÁNUKA.—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.—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>SÚCHAKA.—Then you must have done a great service———</p> + +<p>JÁNUKA.—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.—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>JÁNUKA.—Well, now, that's just as it should be.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>ALL.—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.—The Garden of the Palace</h4> +<br /> + +<p><i>The nymph Sánumatí is seen descending in a celestial car</i>.</p> + +<p>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. +[<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.—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.—Parabaitiká, what are you saying there to yourself?</p> + +<p>FIRST MAIDEN.—Dear Madhukariká, am I not named after the Köil?<a name="FNanchor41"></a><a href="#Footnote_41"><sup>[41]</sup></a> and +does not the Köil sing for joy at the first appearance of the +mango-blossom?</p> + +<p>SECOND MAIDEN [<i>approaching hastily, with transport</i>].—What! is spring +really come?</p> + +<p>FIRST MAIDEN.—Yes, indeed, Madhukariká, and with it the season of joy, +love, and song.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>FIRST MAIDEN.—Provided you let me have half the reward which the god +will bestow in return.</p> + +<p>SECOND MAIDEN.—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>].—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>].—Pardon us, kind sir, we have heard nothing of +it.</p> + +<p>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.</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 Köil,</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.—The mighty power of King Dushyanta is not to be disputed.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>CHAMBERLAIN.—Well then, now you know it, take care you don't continue +your preparations.</p> + +<p>BOTH MAIDENS.—But tell us, kind sir, why has the King prohibited the +usual festivities? We are curious to hear, if we may.</p> + +<p>SÁNUMATÍ [<i>aside</i>].—Men are naturally fond of festive entertainments. +There must be some good reason for the prohibition.</p> + +<p>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?</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>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.</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 "Śakoontalá,"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Is straightway silent and abashed with shame.</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>SÁNUMATÍ [<i>aside</i>].—To me this account is delightful.</p> + +<p>CHAMBERLAIN.—In short, the King is so completely out of his mind that +the festival has been prohibited.</p> + +<p>BOTH MAIDENS.—Perfectly right.</p> + +<p>A VOICE [<i>behind the scenes</i>].—The King! the King! This way, Sire, this +way.</p> + +<p>CHAMBERLAIN [<i>listening</i>].—Oh! here comes his majesty in this +direction. Pass on, maidens; attend to your duties.</p> + +<p>BOTH MAIDENS.—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, +Máthavya, and preceded by Vetravatí.</i></p> + +<p>CHAMBERLAIN [<i>gazing at the King</i>].—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>SÁNUMATÍ [<i>aside. Looking at the King</i>].—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.</p> + +<p>KING [<i>walking slowly up and down, in deep thought</i>].—</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:—</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>SÁNUMATÍ [<i>aside</i>].—My poor Śakoontalá's sufferings are very similar.</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA [<i>aside</i>].—He is taken with another attack of this odious +Śakoontalá fever. How shall we ever cure him?</p> + +<p>CHAMBERLAIN [<i>approaching</i>].—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.—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.</p> + +<p>VETRAVATÍ.—Your Majesty's commands shall be obeyed. <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exit.</i></span></p><br /> + +<p>KING [<i>to the Chamberlain</i>].—And you, Vátáyana, may go about your own +affairs.</p> + +<p>CHAMBERLAIN.—I will, Sire. <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exit.</i></span></p><br /> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA.—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.—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.</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>MÁTHAVYA.—Well, then, wait a moment; I will soon demolish Master Káma'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>].—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?</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>KING.—True. The sight of her picture will refresh my soul. Lead the way +to the arbor.</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA.—This way, Sire. +<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Both move on, followed by Sánumatí.</i></span></p><br /> + +<p>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. <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Both enter and seat themselves.</i></span></p><br /> + +<p>SÁNUMATÍ [<i>aside</i>].—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.—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?</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>SÁNUMATÍ [<i>aside</i>].—Exactly.</p> + +<p>KING [<i>after deep thought</i>].—My dear friend, suggest some relief for my +misery.</p> + +<p>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?</p> + +<p>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?</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>SÁNUMATÍ [<i>aside</i>].—Alas! such is the force of self-reproach following +a rash action. But his anguish only rejoices me.</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA.—An idea has just struck me. I should not wonder if some +celestial being had carried her off to heaven.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>SÁNUMATÍ [<i>aside</i>].—His present recollection of every circumstance of +her history does not surprise me so much as his former forgetfulness.</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA.—If that's the case, you will be certain to meet her before +long.</p> + +<p>KING.—Why?</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA.—No father and mother can endure to see a daughter suffering +the pain of separation from her husband.</p> + +<p>KING.—Oh! my dear Máthavya,</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>MÁTHAVYA.—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>].—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>SÁNUMATÍ [<i>aside</i>].—Had it found its way to the hand of any other +person, then indeed its fate would have been deplorable.</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA.—Pray, how did the ring ever come upon her hand at all?</p> + +<p>SÁNUMATÍ.—I myself am curious to know.</p> + +<p>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?"</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA.—Well, what was your reply?</p> + +<p>KING.—Then I placed the ring on her finger, and thus addressed her—</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>SÁNUMATÍ [<i>aside</i>].—A pleasant arrangement! Fate, however, ordained +that the appointment should not be kept.</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA.—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.—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.</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA.—Very likely.</p> + +<p>SÁNUMATÍ [<i>aside</i>].—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?</p> + +<p>KING.—Let me now address a few words of reproof to this ring.</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA [<i>aside</i>].—He is going stark mad, I verily believe.</p> + +<p>KING.—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>MÁTHAVYA [<i>aside</i>].—And so, I suppose, I must stand here to be devoured +by hunger, whilst he goes on in this sentimental strain.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p><i>Enter Chaturiká hurriedly, with a picture in her hand</i>.</p> + +<p>CHATURIKÁ.—Here is the Queen's portrait. <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Shows the picture</i>.</span></p><br /> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>SÁNUMATÍ [<i>aside</i>].—A most artistic performance! I admire the King's +skill, and could almost believe that Śakoontalá herself was before me.</p> + +<p>KING.—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>SÁNUMATÍ [<i>aside</i>].—A very just remark from a modest man, whose +affection is exaggerated by the keenness of his remorse.</p> + +<p>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?</p> + +<p>SÁNUMATÍ [<i>aside</i>].—If he cannot distinguish her from the others, the +simpleton might as well have no eyes in his head.</p> + +<p>KING.—Which should you imagine to be intended for her?</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>KING.—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;'>Chaturiká, 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>CHATURIKÁ.—Worthy Máthavya, have the kindness to hold the picture until +I return.</p> + +<p>KING.—Nay, I will hold it myself.<br /> +<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Takes the picture. Exit Chaturiká</i>.</span></p><br /> + +<p>KING.—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>MÁTHAVYA [<i>aside</i>].—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>SÁNUMATÍ [<i>aside</i>].—He longs, no doubt, to delineate some favorite spot +where my dear Śakoontalá delighted to ramble.</p> + +<p>KING.—You shall hear———</p> +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>I wish to see the Máliní portrayed,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Its tranquil course by banks of sand impeded—</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 Himálaya,</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>MÁTHAVYA [<i>aside</i>].—Pooh! if I were he, I would fill up the vacant +spaces with a lot of grizzly-bearded old hermits.</p> + +<p>KING.—My dear Máthavya, there is still a part of Śakoontalá's dress +which I purposed to draw, but find I have omitted.</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA.—What is that?</p> + +<p>SÁNUMATÍ [<i>aside</i>].—Something suitable, I suppose, to the simple attire +of a young and beautiful girl dwelling in a forest.</p> + +<p>KING.—A sweet Śirísha 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>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? [<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.—A bee! drive off the impudent insect, will you?</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA.—That's your business. Your royal prerogative gives you power +over all offenders.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>SÁNUMATÍ [<i>aside</i>].—A most polite way of warning him off!</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA.—You'll find the obstinate creature is not to be sent about +his business so easily as you think.</p> + +<p>KING.—Dost thou presume to disobey? Now hear me—</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>MÁTHAVYA.—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.—Painted? impossible!</p> + +<p>SÁNUMATÍ [<i>aside</i>].—Even I did not perceive it; how much less should +he?</p> + +<p>KING.—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>SÁNUMATÍ [<i>aside</i>].—Separated lovers are very difficult to please; but +he seems more difficult than usual.</p> + +<p>KING.—Alas! my dear Máthavya, 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>SÁNUMATÍ [<i>aside</i>],—You have made ample amends for the wrong you did +Śakoontalá in disowning her.</p> + +<p>CHATURIKÁ [<i>entering</i>].—Victory to the King! I was coming along with +the box of colors in my hand———</p> + +<p>KING.—What now?</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA.—By what luck did you contrive to escape her?</p> + +<p>CHATURIKÁ.—While her maid was disengaging her mantle, which had caught +in the branch of a shrub, I ran away.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>MÁTHAVYA.—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>SÁNUMATÍ [<i>aside</i>].—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>VETRAVATÍ [<i>entering with a despatch in her hand</i>].—Victory to the +King!</p> + +<p>KING.—-Vetravatí, did you observe the Queen Vasumatí coming in this +direction?</p> + +<p>VETRAVATÍ.—I did; but when she saw that I had a despatch in my hand for +your Majesty, she turned back.</p> + +<p>KING.—The Queen has too much regard for propriety to interrupt me when +I am engaged with state-affairs.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>KING.—Hand me the paper. +<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Vetravatí delivers it</i>.</span></p><br /> + +<p>KING [<i>reading</i>].—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.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>KING.—The unborn child has a title to his father's property. Such is my +decree. Go, bid my minister proclaim it so.</p> + +<p>VETRAVATÍ.—I will, my liege. <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Going</i>.</span></p><br /> + +<p>KING.—Stay a moment.</p> + +<p>VETRAVATÍ.—I am at your Majesty's service.</p> + +<p>KING.—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>VETRAVATÍ.—It shall be so proclaimed. +<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exit Vetravatí, and reënter after an interval</i>.</span></p><br /> + +<p>VETRAVATÍ.—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>].—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>VETRAVATÍ.—Heaven forbid!</p> + +<p>KING.—Fool that I was to reject such happiness when it offered itself +for my acceptance!</p> + +<p>SÁNUMATÍ [<i>aside</i>].—He may well blame his own folly when he calls to +mind his treatment of my beloved Śakoontalá.</p> + +<p>KING.—Ah! woe is me? when I forsook my wife—</p> +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>My lawful wife—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>SÁNUMATÍ [<i>aside</i>].—There is no fear of your race being cut off for +want of a son.</p> + +<p>CHATURIKÁ [<i>aside to Vetravatí</i>].—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?</p> + +<p>VETRAVATÍ.—A very good idea. <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exit</i>.</span></p><br /> + +<p>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.</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>CHATURIKÁ [<i>looking at him in consternation</i>].—Great King, compose +yourself.</p> + +<p>SÁNUMATÍ [<i>aside</i>].—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. +<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Rises aloft and disappears</i>.</span></p><br /> + +<p>A VOICE [<i>behind the scenes</i>].—Help! help! to the rescue!</p> + +<p>KING [<i>recovering himself. Listening</i>].—Ha! I heard a cry of distress, +and in Máthavya's voice. What ho there!</p> + +<p>VETRAVATÍ [<i>entering</i>].—Your friend is in danger; save him, great King.</p> + +<p>KING.—Who dares insult the worthy Máthavya?</p> + +<p>VETRAVATÍ.—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>].—Impossible! Have evil spirits power over my subjects, +even in my private apartments? Well, well—</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>].—Halloo there! my dear friend; help! +help!</p> + +<p>KING [<i>advancing with rapid strides</i>].—Fear nothing—</p> + +<p>THE SAME VOICE [<i>behind the scenes</i>].—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>].—What ho there! my bow.</p> + +<p>SLAVE [<i>entering with a bow</i>].—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>].—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>].—What! dares he defy me to my face? Hold there, +monster! Prepare to die, for your time is come. [<i>Stringing his bow</i>.] +Vetravatí, lead the way to the terrace.</p> + +<p>VETRAVATÍ.—This way, Sire. <span style='float: right;'>[<i>They advance in haste</i>.</span></p><br /> + +<p>KING [<i>looking on every side</i>].—How's this? there is nothing to be +seen.</p> + +<p>A VOICE [<i>behind the scenes</i>].—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.—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 Bráhman; bearing death to thee,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>To him deliverance—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 Mátali, holding Máthavya, whom he releases</i>.<br /></span></p><br /> + +<p>MÁTALI.—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>].—What, Mátali! Welcome, most noble +charioteer of the mighty Indra.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>MÁTALI [<i>smiling</i>].—Great Prince, hear on what errand Indra sent me +into your presence.</p> + +<p>KING.—I am all attention.</p> + +<p>MÁTALI.—There is a race of giants, the descendants of Kálanemi, whom +the gods find difficult to subdue.</p> + +<p>KING.—So I have already heard from Nárada.</p> + +<p>MÁTALI.—Heaven's mighty lord, who deigns to call thee "friend,"</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.—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?</p> + +<p>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</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 Máthavya</i>].—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—</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>MÁTHAVYA.—I obey. <span style='float: right;'> [<i>Exit.</i></span></p><br /> + +<p>MÁTALI.—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.—The Sky</h4> +<br /> + +<p><i>Enter King Dushyanta and Mátali in the car of Indra, moving in the +air</i>.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>MÁTALI [<i>smiling</i>].—Great Prince, it seems to me that neither of you is +satisfied with himself—</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.—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,</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>MÁTALI.—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.—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>MÁTALI.—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.—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?</p> + +<p>MÁTALI.—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.—This is the reason, I suppose, that a sensation of calm repose +pervades all my senses. [<i>Looking down at the wheels.</i>] Ah! Mátali, we +are descending towards the earth's atmosphere.</p> + +<p>MÁTALI.—What makes you think so?</p> + +<p>KING.—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 Chátakas</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>MÁTALI.—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>],—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>MÁTALI.—Well described! [<i>Looking with awe.</i>] Grand, indeed, and lovely +is the spectacle presented by the earth.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>MÁTALI.—Great Prince, it is called "Golden-peak,"<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 Kaśyapa, 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 Maríchi, Brahmá'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.—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>MÁTALI.—By all means! An excellent idea. [<i>Guides the car to the +earth.</i>]</p> + +<p>KING [<i>in a tone of wonder</i>].—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>MÁTALI.—Such is the difference between the car of Indra and that of +your Majesty.</p> + +<p>KING.—In which direction, Mátali, is Kaśyapa's sacred retreat?</p> + +<p>MÁTALI [<i>pointing</i>].—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.—I salute thee, thou man of austere devotion.</p> + +<p>MÁTALI [<i>holding in the reins of the car</i>].—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.</p> + +<p>KING.—This sacred retreat is more delightful than heaven itself. I +could almost fancy myself bathing in a pool of nectar.</p> + +<p>MÁTALI [<i>stopping the chariot</i>].—Descend, mighty Prince.</p> + +<p>KING [<i>descending</i>].—And what will you do, Mátali?</p> + +<p>MÁTALI.—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.—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>MÁTALI.—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-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?</p> + +<p>KING [<i>listening</i>].—Then we must await the holy father's leisure.</p> + +<p>MÁTALI [<i>looking at the King</i>].—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.</p> + +<p>KING.—As you think proper. <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Remains under the tree</i>.</span></p><br /> + +<p>MÁTALI.—Great King, I go. <span style='float: right;'> [<i>Exit.</i></span></p><br /> + +<p>KING [<i>feeling his arm throb</i>].—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>].—Be not so naughty. Do you begin already +to show a refractory spirit?</p> + +<p>KING [<i>listening</i>].—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.—Open your mouth, my young lion, I want to count your teeth.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>SECOND ATTENDANT.—This lioness will certainly attack you if you do not +release her whelp.</p> + +<p>CHILD [<i>laughing</i>].—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.—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.—Let the young lion go, like a dear child, and I will +give you something else to play with.</p> + +<p>CHILD.—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>].—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.—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.</p> + +<p>FIRST ATTENDANT.—Very well. <span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exit.</i></span></p><br /> + +<p>CHILD.—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.—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.—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>].—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.—Gentle Sir, I thank you; but he is not the saint's son.</p> + +<p>KING.—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>].—Wonderful! Prodigious!</p> + +<p>KING.—What excites your surprise, my good woman?</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>KING [<i>fondling the child</i>].—If he be not the son of the great sage, of +what family does he come, may I ask?</p> + +<p>ATTENDANT.—Of the race of Puru.</p> + +<p>KING [<i>aside</i>].—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.—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.</p> + +<p>KING [<i>aside</i>].—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.—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>].—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>].—Sarva-damana, Sarva-damana, see, see, what a beautiful Śakoonta +(bird).</p> + +<p>CHILD [<i>looking round</i>].—My mother! Where? Let me go to her.</p> + +<p>BOTH ATTENDANTS.—He mistook the word Śakoonta for Śakoontalá. The boy +dotes upon his mother, and she is ever uppermost in his thoughts.</p> + +<p>SECOND ATTENDANT.—Nay, my dear child, I said, Look at the beauty of +this Śakoonta.</p> + +<p>KING [<i>aside</i>].—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.</p> + +<p>CHILD [<i>takes the toy</i>].—Dear nurse, what a beautiful peacock!</p> + +<p>FIRST ATTENDANT [<i>looking at the child. In great distress</i>].—Alas! +alas! I do not see the amulet on his wrist.</p> + +<p>KING.—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.—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.—Why did you try to prevent my touching it?</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>KING.—And suppose another person touches it?</p> + +<p>FIRST ATTENDANT.—Then it instantly becomes a serpent, and bites him.</p> + +<p>KING.—Have you ever witnessed the transformation with your own eyes?</p> + +<p>BOTH ATTENDANTS.—Over and over again.</p> + +<p>KING [<i>with rapture. Aside</i>].—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.—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.<br /> +<span style='float: right;'>[<i>Exeunt.</i></span><br /> + +<p>CHILD [<i>to the King</i>].—Do not hold me. I want to go to my mother.</p> + +<p>KING.—We will go to her together, and give her joy, my son.</p> + +<p>CHILD.—Dushyanta is my father, not you.</p> + +<p>KING [<i>smiling</i>].—His contradiction convinces me only the more.</p> + +<p><i>Enter Śakoontalá, in widow's apparel, with her long hair twisted into a +single braid</i>.</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>aside</i>].—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?</p> + +<p>KING [<i>gazing at Śakoontalá</i>].—Alas! can this indeed be my Śakoontalá?</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>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<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>].—Mother, who is this man that has been +kissing me and calling me his son?</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>aside</i>].—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.—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 Rohiní.</span><br /> +</div> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ.—May my husband be victorious——— +<span style='float: right;'>[<i>She stops short, her voice choked with tears.</i></span></p><br /> + +<p>KING.—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.—Mother, who is this man?</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ.—My child, ask the deity that presides over thy destiny.</p> + +<p>KING [<i>falling at Śakoontalá's feet</i>].—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>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? [<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.—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>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>seeing the signet-ring on his finger</i>].—Ah! my dear +husband, is that the Lost Ring?</p> + +<p>KING.—Yes; the moment I recovered it, my memory was restored.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>KING.—Receive it back, as the beautiful twining plant receives again +its blossom in token of its reunion with the spring.</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ.—Nay; I can never more place confidence in it. Let my +husband retain it. + +<span style='float: right;'><i>Enter Mátali</i>.</span></p><br /> + +<p>MÁTALI.—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.—Yes, indeed. My heart's dearest wish has borne sweet fruit. But +tell me, Mátali, is this joyful event known to the great Indra?</p> + +<p>MÁTALI [<i>smiling</i>].—What is unknown to the gods? But come with me, +noble Prince, the divine Kaśyapa graciously permits thee to be presented +to him.</p> + +<p>KING.—Śakoontalá, take our child and lead the way. We will together go +into the presence of the holy Sage.</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ.—I shrink from entering the august presence of the great +Saint, even with my husband at my side.</p> + +<p>KING.—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>Kaśyapa is discovered seated on a throne with his wife Aditi</i>.</span></p><br /> +<br /> + +<p>KAŚYAPA [<i>gazing at Dushyanta. To his wife</i>].—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.—He bears in his noble form all the marks of dignity.</p> + +<p>MÁTALI [<i>to Dushyanta</i>].—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.—Are these, O Mátali, the holy pair,</p> +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Offspring of Daksha and divine Maríchi,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Children of Brahmá'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>MÁTALI.—Even so.</p> + +<p>KING [<i>prostrating himself</i>].—Most august of beings, Dushyanta, content +to have fulfilled the commands of your son Indra, offers you his +adoration.</p> + +<p>KAŚYAPA.—My son, long may'st thou live, and happily may'st thou reign +over the earth!</p> + +<p>ADITI.—My son, may'st thou ever be invincible in the field of battle!</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ.—I also prostrate myself before you, most adorable beings, +and my child with me.</p> + +<p>KAŚYAPA.—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.—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 Kaśyapa</i>.</span></p><br /> + +<p>KAŚYAPA [<i>regarding each of them by turns</i>].—Hail to the beautiful +Śakoontalá!</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.—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,</p> +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Bloom before fruit, the clouds before the rain—</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>MÁTALI.—It is thus that the great progenitors of the world confer +favors.</p> + +<p>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;</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.—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.—I am attentive.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>KING [<i>drawing a deep breath</i>].—Oh! what a weight is taken off my mind, +now that my character is cleared of reproach.</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>aside</i>].—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>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,</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.—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>KAŚYAPA.—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.—We cannot but entertain the highest hopes of a child for whom +your highness performed the natal rites.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>ŚAKOONTALÁ [<i>aside</i>].—The venerable matron has given utterance to the +very wish that was in my mind.</p> + +<p>KAŚYAPA.—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.—Then most assuredly he cannot be very angry with me.</p> + +<p>KAŚYAPA.—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>].—Holy father, what are your commands?</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>PUPIL.—Your highness's commands shall be obeyed. <span style='float: right;'> [<i>Exit.</i></span></p><br /> + +<p>KAŚYAPA.—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.—Most holy father, I obey.</p> + +<p>KAŚYAPA.—And accept this blessing—</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.—Holy father, I will strive, as far as I am able, to attain this +happiness.</p> + +<p>KAŚYAPA.—What other favor can I bestow on thee, my son?</p> + +<p>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:— +<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. 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:—</p> + +<div class='poem'> +<div class='stanza'> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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;'>"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;'>"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?"</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 "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.</p> + +<p>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.</p> + +<p>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:—</p> + +<blockquote>"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."</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 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.</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 "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:—</p> + +<blockquote>"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."</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 "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.</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 "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.</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:—</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"What glorious trees! The sombre saul,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>On which the eye delights to rest—</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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The light-leaved tamarind spreading wide—</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."</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 "Our Casuarina Tree," 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 "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,</p> + +<div class='poem'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</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;'>"Shell-bracelets ho! Shell-bracelets ho!</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Fair maids and matrons come and buy!"</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;'>"Shell-bracelets ho! Shell-bracelets ho!"</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—"Shell-bracelets ho!"</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;'>"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!"—She stretched her hand,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>"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."</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;'>"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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</span><br /> +</div> +<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"That is the temple spire."—"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—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—'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!"</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—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;'>"Here smiling Peace and Plenty dwell."</span><br /> +</div> +<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Unconsciously he raised his cry,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>"Shell-bracelets ho!" 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;'>"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."</span><br /> +</div> +<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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—so</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The price is high."—"How! Sold to mine?</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Who bought them, I should like to know."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>"Thy daughter, with the large black eyne,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Now bathing at the marble ghat."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Loud laughed the priest at this reply,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</span><br /> +</div> +<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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'—thus she said—'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,'" "Well, wait, friend, wait!"</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;'>"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."</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—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—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;—the priest said low,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</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—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—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;'>"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—a grateful heart</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>That will not grudge to give thy fee."</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—</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—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;'>"And who art thou," the teacher said,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"My name is Buttoo," said the youth,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"A hunter's son, I know not Fear;"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>The teacher answered, smiling smooth,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Then know him from this time, my dear."</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—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;—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He rose—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—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;'>"My place I gather is not here;</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>No matter—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," 'twas thus he mused,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"The question is—not wealth or place,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>But gifts well used, or gifts abused."</span><br /> +</div> +<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</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—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—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—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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Here intervened a deep morass—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Here arid spots of verdure shorn</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Lay open—rock or barren sand—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And here again the trees arose</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Thick clustering—a glorious band</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Their tops still bright with sunset glows.—</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—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;'>"They touch me," he exclaimed with joy,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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;—</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—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—above</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wishmo and Drona—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—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;—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—and failed again;</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Why was it? Hark!—A wild dog's bark!</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>An evil omen:—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—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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Stuck still the shaft—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;'>"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—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!"</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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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 "—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—near Buttoo's place.</span><br /> +</div> +<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A hut—<i>a</i> statue—and a youth</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>In the dim forest—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;'>"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,"</span><br /> +</div> +<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</span><br /> +</div> +<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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,"</span><br /> +</div> +<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Is it a promise?" "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," "Beware!</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Rash promise ever ends in strife."</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Thou art my Master—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."</span><br /> +</div> +<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"If it be so—Arjuna hear!"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Arjuna and the youth were dumb,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"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—and I press</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>For this sad recompense—for thee."</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;'>"For this"—said Dronacharjya—"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."</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—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—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—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>;—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—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—</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—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?—Hark, a cry,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>A feeble human wail,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Oh God!" it said—"I die—I die,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Who'll carry home the pail?"</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—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—</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;'>"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!—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—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!"</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;'>"Nay, weep not so," resumed the child,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>"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—</span><br /> +</div> +<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And killed one bird—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—a bloody death—</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—</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—'tis all</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>I ask—down that steep lane."</span><br /> +</div> +<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>He pointed—ceased—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—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—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;'>"Oh why does not our child return?</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Too long he surely stays."—</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;'>"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—</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—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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Ah, no—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—what means my pain?</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>This horrid terror—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—strike!"</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;'>"Lo, here he is—oh wherefore grieves</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Thy soul, my partner dear?"</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—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!—the steps renew.</span><br /> +</div> +<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Where art thou, darling—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—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—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."</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—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;'>"It is not Sindhu—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—avow!"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>"There is."—"Speak on, speak on,"</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;'>"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—for a son's untimely loss!</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Die—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."</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—</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?—Oh man,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A prophet's words can never fail—</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—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—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;—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>The shadows deepened brown.</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>A lady past—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—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—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Then asked—Were we from France?</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>We talked awhile—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!"</span><br /> +</div> +<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Sweet were the roses—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—oh no—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!—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—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:—It was an open plain</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Illimitable—stretching, stretching—oh, so far!</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And o'er it that strange light—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—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—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—"And oh," I cried,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>"Bind too my father's forehead with these leaves."</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 "Nay!"</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—then, all at once</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Opened my tear-dimmed eyes—When lo! the light</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Was gone—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 THÉRÈSE</h3> + +<h4><i>Written on the fly-leaf of Erckmann-Chatrian's novel, entitled, "Madame +Thérèse</i>."</h4> + +<div class='poem'><div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Wavered the foremost soldiers—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!—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—that rushes to a grave?</span><br /> +</div> +<div class='stanza'><span style='margin-left: 2em;'>It is a woman—slender, tall, and brown!</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>She snatches up the standard as it falls—</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;—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—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. "The rose can never tower</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Like the pale lily with her Juno mien"—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>"But is the lily lovelier?" 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;'>"Give me a flower delicious as the rose</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And stately as the lily in her pride"—</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>"But of what color?"—"Rose-red," Love first chose,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>Then prayed—"No, lily-white—or, both provide;"</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>And Flora gave the lotus, "rose-red" dyed,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And "lily-white"—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—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—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—like those in Borrowdale,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>Under whose awful branches lingered pale</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 3em;'>"Fear, trembling Hope, and Death, the skeleton,</span><br /> +<span style='margin-left: 2em;'>And Time, the shadow;" 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> "The Lights of Canopus," a Persian paraphrase; as the "Khirad +Afroz," "the lamp of the Understanding," 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 "excellent."</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> "Gentleness is chief of virtues."</p> + +<p><a name="Footnote_26"></a><a href="#FNanchor26">[26]</a> These "curls" are the "Arvathas," or marks of good blood and +high-breeding.</p> + +<p><a name="Footnote_27"></a><a href="#FNanchor27">[27]</a> "O Beautiful One!"</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: "The Land of the Rose-apple Tree."</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 Rákshasas, 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> 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.</p> + +<p><a name="Footnote_39"></a><a href="#FNanchor39">[39]</a> 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.</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 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.</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 Himálaya chain +immediately adjacent to Kailása, 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 + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK HINDU LITERATURE *** + +***** This file should be named 13268-h.htm or 13268-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + https://www.gutenberg.org/1/3/2/6/13268/ + +Produced by Juliet Sutherland, Susan Skinner and the Online +Distributed Proofreading Team. + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. Special rules, +set forth in the General Terms of Use part of this license, apply to +copying and distributing Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works to +protect the PROJECT GUTENBERG-tm concept and trademark. Project +Gutenberg is a registered trademark, and may not be used if you +charge for the eBooks, unless you receive specific permission. If you +do not charge anything for copies of this eBook, complying with the +rules is very easy. You may use this eBook for nearly any purpose +such as creation of derivative works, reports, performances and +research. They may be modified and printed and given away--you may do +practically ANYTHING with public domain eBooks. Redistribution is +subject to the trademark license, especially commercial +redistribution. + + + +*** START: FULL LICENSE *** + +THE FULL PROJECT GUTENBERG LICENSE +PLEASE READ THIS BEFORE YOU DISTRIBUTE OR USE THIS WORK + +To protect the Project Gutenberg-tm mission of promoting the free +distribution of electronic works, by using or distributing this work +(or any other work associated in any way with the phrase "Project +Gutenberg"), you agree to comply with all the terms of the Full Project +Gutenberg-tm License (available with this file or online at +https://gutenberg.org/license). + + +Section 1. General Terms of Use and Redistributing Project Gutenberg-tm +electronic works + +1.A. By reading or using any part of this Project Gutenberg-tm +electronic work, you indicate that you have read, understand, agree to +and accept all the terms of this license and intellectual property +(trademark/copyright) agreement. If you do not agree to abide by all +the terms of this agreement, you must cease using and return or destroy +all copies of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works in your possession. +If you paid a fee for obtaining a copy of or access to a Project +Gutenberg-tm electronic work and you do not agree to be bound by the +terms of this agreement, you may obtain a refund from the person or +entity to whom you paid the fee as set forth in paragraph 1.E.8. + +1.B. "Project Gutenberg" is a registered trademark. It may only be +used on or associated in any way with an electronic work by people who +agree to be bound by the terms of this agreement. There are a few +things that you can do with most Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works +even without complying with the full terms of this agreement. See +paragraph 1.C below. There are a lot of things you can do with Project +Gutenberg-tm electronic works if you follow the terms of this agreement +and help preserve free future access to Project Gutenberg-tm electronic +works. See paragraph 1.E below. + +1.C. The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation ("the Foundation" +or PGLAF), owns a compilation copyright in the collection of Project +Gutenberg-tm electronic works. Nearly all the individual works in the +collection are in the public domain in the United States. If an +individual work is in the public domain in the United States and you are +located in the United States, we do not claim a right to prevent you from +copying, distributing, performing, displaying or creating derivative +works based on the work as long as all references to Project Gutenberg +are removed. Of course, we hope that you will support the Project +Gutenberg-tm mission of promoting free access to electronic works by +freely sharing Project Gutenberg-tm works in compliance with the terms of +this agreement for keeping the Project Gutenberg-tm name associated with +the work. You can easily comply with the terms of this agreement by +keeping this work in the same format with its attached full Project +Gutenberg-tm License when you share it without charge with others. + +1.D. The copyright laws of the place where you are located also govern +what you can do with this work. Copyright laws in most countries are in +a constant state of change. If you are outside the United States, check +the laws of your country in addition to the terms of this agreement +before downloading, copying, displaying, performing, distributing or +creating derivative works based on this work or any other Project +Gutenberg-tm work. The Foundation makes no representations concerning +the copyright status of any work in any country outside the United +States. + +1.E. Unless you have removed all references to Project Gutenberg: + +1.E.1. The following sentence, with active links to, or other immediate +access to, the full Project Gutenberg-tm License must appear prominently +whenever any copy of a Project Gutenberg-tm work (any work on which the +phrase "Project Gutenberg" appears, or with which the phrase "Project +Gutenberg" is associated) is accessed, displayed, performed, viewed, +copied or distributed: + +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 + +1.E.2. If an individual Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work is derived +from the public domain (does not contain a notice indicating that it is +posted with permission of the copyright holder), the work can be copied +and distributed to anyone in the United States without paying any fees +or charges. If you are redistributing or providing access to a work +with the phrase "Project Gutenberg" associated with or appearing on the +work, you must comply either with the requirements of paragraphs 1.E.1 +through 1.E.7 or obtain permission for the use of the work and the +Project Gutenberg-tm trademark as set forth in paragraphs 1.E.8 or +1.E.9. + +1.E.3. If an individual Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work is posted +with the permission of the copyright holder, your use and distribution +must comply with both paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 and any additional +terms imposed by the copyright holder. Additional terms will be linked +to the Project Gutenberg-tm License for all works posted with the +permission of the copyright holder found at the beginning of this work. + +1.E.4. Do not unlink or detach or remove the full Project Gutenberg-tm +License terms from this work, or any files containing a part of this +work or any other work associated with Project Gutenberg-tm. + +1.E.5. Do not copy, display, perform, distribute or redistribute this +electronic work, or any part of this electronic work, without +prominently displaying the sentence set forth in paragraph 1.E.1 with +active links or immediate access to the full terms of the Project +Gutenberg-tm License. + +1.E.6. You may convert to and distribute this work in any binary, +compressed, marked up, nonproprietary or proprietary form, including any +word processing or hypertext form. However, if you provide access to or +distribute copies of a Project Gutenberg-tm work in a format other than +"Plain Vanilla ASCII" or other format used in the official version +posted on the official Project Gutenberg-tm web site (www.gutenberg.org), +you must, at no additional cost, fee or expense to the user, provide a +copy, a means of exporting a copy, or a means of obtaining a copy upon +request, of the work in its original "Plain Vanilla ASCII" or other +form. Any alternate format must include the full Project Gutenberg-tm +License as specified in paragraph 1.E.1. + +1.E.7. Do not charge a fee for access to, viewing, displaying, +performing, copying or distributing any Project Gutenberg-tm works +unless you comply with paragraph 1.E.8 or 1.E.9. + +1.E.8. You may charge a reasonable fee for copies of or providing +access to or distributing Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works provided +that + +- You pay a royalty fee of 20% of the gross profits you derive from + the use of Project Gutenberg-tm works calculated using the method + you already use to calculate your applicable taxes. The fee is + owed to the owner of the Project Gutenberg-tm trademark, but he + has agreed to donate royalties under this paragraph to the + Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation. Royalty payments + must be paid within 60 days following each date on which you + prepare (or are legally required to prepare) your periodic tax + returns. Royalty payments should be clearly marked as such and + sent to the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation at the + address specified in Section 4, "Information about donations to + the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation." + +- You provide a full refund of any money paid by a user who notifies + you in writing (or by e-mail) within 30 days of receipt that s/he + does not agree to the terms of the full Project Gutenberg-tm + License. You must require such a user to return or + destroy all copies of the works possessed in a physical medium + and discontinue all use of and all access to other copies of + Project Gutenberg-tm works. + +- You provide, in accordance with paragraph 1.F.3, a full refund of any + money paid for a work or a replacement copy, if a defect in the + electronic work is discovered and reported to you within 90 days + of receipt of the work. + +- You comply with all other terms of this agreement for free + distribution of Project Gutenberg-tm works. + +1.E.9. If you wish to charge a fee or distribute a Project Gutenberg-tm +electronic work or group of works on different terms than are set +forth in this agreement, you must obtain permission in writing from +both the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation and Michael +Hart, the owner of the Project Gutenberg-tm trademark. Contact the +Foundation as set forth in Section 3 below. + +1.F. + +1.F.1. Project Gutenberg volunteers and employees expend considerable +effort to identify, do copyright research on, transcribe and proofread +public domain works in creating the Project Gutenberg-tm +collection. Despite these efforts, Project Gutenberg-tm electronic +works, and the medium on which they may be stored, may contain +"Defects," such as, but not limited to, incomplete, inaccurate or +corrupt data, transcription errors, a copyright or other intellectual +property infringement, a defective or damaged disk or other medium, a +computer virus, or computer codes that damage or cannot be read by +your equipment. + +1.F.2. LIMITED WARRANTY, DISCLAIMER OF DAMAGES - Except for the "Right +of Replacement or Refund" described in paragraph 1.F.3, the Project +Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation, the owner of the Project +Gutenberg-tm trademark, and any other party distributing a Project +Gutenberg-tm electronic work under this agreement, disclaim all +liability to you for damages, costs and expenses, including legal +fees. YOU AGREE THAT YOU HAVE NO REMEDIES FOR NEGLIGENCE, STRICT +LIABILITY, BREACH OF WARRANTY OR BREACH OF CONTRACT EXCEPT THOSE +PROVIDED IN PARAGRAPH F3. YOU AGREE THAT THE FOUNDATION, THE +TRADEMARK OWNER, AND ANY DISTRIBUTOR UNDER THIS AGREEMENT WILL NOT BE +LIABLE TO YOU FOR ACTUAL, DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE OR +INCIDENTAL DAMAGES EVEN IF YOU GIVE NOTICE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH +DAMAGE. + +1.F.3. LIMITED RIGHT OF REPLACEMENT OR REFUND - If you discover a +defect in this electronic work within 90 days of receiving it, you can +receive a refund of the money (if any) you paid for it by sending a +written explanation to the person you received the work from. If you +received the work on a physical medium, you must return the medium with +your written explanation. The person or entity that provided you with +the defective work may elect to provide a replacement copy in lieu of a +refund. If you received the work electronically, the person or entity +providing it to you may choose to give you a second opportunity to +receive the work electronically in lieu of a refund. If the second copy +is also defective, you may demand a refund in writing without further +opportunities to fix the problem. + +1.F.4. Except for the limited right of replacement or refund set forth +in paragraph 1.F.3, this work is provided to you 'AS-IS', WITH NO OTHER +WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO +WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTIBILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PURPOSE. + +1.F.5. Some states do not allow disclaimers of certain implied +warranties or the exclusion or limitation of certain types of damages. +If any disclaimer or limitation set forth in this agreement violates the +law of the state applicable to this agreement, the agreement shall be +interpreted to make the maximum disclaimer or limitation permitted by +the applicable state law. The invalidity or unenforceability of any +provision of this agreement shall not void the remaining provisions. + +1.F.6. INDEMNITY - You agree to indemnify and hold the Foundation, the +trademark owner, any agent or employee of the Foundation, anyone +providing copies of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works in accordance +with this agreement, and any volunteers associated with the production, +promotion and distribution of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works, +harmless from all liability, costs and expenses, including legal fees, +that arise directly or indirectly from any of the following which you do +or cause to occur: (a) distribution of this or any Project Gutenberg-tm +work, (b) alteration, modification, or additions or deletions to any +Project Gutenberg-tm work, and (c) any Defect you cause. + + +Section 2. Information about the Mission of Project Gutenberg-tm + +Project Gutenberg-tm is synonymous with the free distribution of +electronic works in formats readable by the widest variety of computers +including obsolete, old, middle-aged and new computers. It exists +because of the efforts of hundreds of volunteers and donations from +people in all walks of life. + +Volunteers and financial support to provide volunteers with the +assistance they need, is critical to reaching Project Gutenberg-tm's +goals and ensuring that the Project Gutenberg-tm collection will +remain freely available for generations to come. In 2001, the Project +Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation was created to provide a secure +and permanent future for Project Gutenberg-tm and future generations. +To learn more about the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation +and how your efforts and donations can help, see Sections 3 and 4 +and the Foundation web page at https://www.pglaf.org. + + +Section 3. Information about the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive +Foundation + +The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation is a non profit +501(c)(3) educational corporation organized under the laws of the +state of Mississippi and granted tax exempt status by the Internal +Revenue Service. The Foundation's EIN or federal tax identification +number is 64-6221541. Its 501(c)(3) letter is posted at +https://pglaf.org/fundraising. Contributions to the Project Gutenberg +Literary Archive Foundation are tax deductible to the full extent +permitted by U.S. federal laws and your state's laws. + +The Foundation's principal office is located at 4557 Melan Dr. S. +Fairbanks, AK, 99712., but its volunteers and employees are scattered +throughout numerous locations. Its business office is located at +809 North 1500 West, Salt Lake City, UT 84116, (801) 596-1887, email +business@pglaf.org. Email contact links and up to date contact +information can be found at the Foundation's web site and official +page at https://pglaf.org + +For additional contact information: + Dr. Gregory B. Newby + Chief Executive and Director + gbnewby@pglaf.org + +Section 4. Information about Donations to the Project Gutenberg +Literary Archive Foundation + +Project Gutenberg-tm depends upon and cannot survive without wide +spread public support and donations to carry out its mission of +increasing the number of public domain and licensed works that can be +freely distributed in machine readable form accessible by the widest +array of equipment including outdated equipment. Many small donations +($1 to $5,000) are particularly important to maintaining tax exempt +status with the IRS. + +The Foundation is committed to complying with the laws regulating +charities and charitable donations in all 50 states of the United +States. Compliance requirements are not uniform and it takes a +considerable effort, much paperwork and many fees to meet and keep up +with these requirements. We do not solicit donations in locations +where we have not received written confirmation of compliance. To +SEND DONATIONS or determine the status of compliance for any +particular state visit https://pglaf.org + +While we cannot and do not solicit contributions from states where we +have not met the solicitation requirements, we know of no prohibition +against accepting unsolicited donations from donors in such states who +approach us with offers to donate. + +International donations are gratefully accepted, but we cannot make +any statements concerning tax treatment of donations received from +outside the United States. U.S. laws alone swamp our small staff. + +Please check the Project Gutenberg Web pages for current donation +methods and addresses. Donations are accepted in a number of other +ways including including checks, online payments and credit card +donations. To donate, please visit: https://pglaf.org/donate + + +Section 5. General Information About Project Gutenberg-tm electronic +works. + +Professor Michael S. Hart was the originator of the Project Gutenberg-tm +concept of a library of electronic works that could be freely shared +with anyone. For thirty years, he produced and distributed Project +Gutenberg-tm eBooks with only a loose network of volunteer support. + +Project Gutenberg-tm eBooks are often created from several printed +editions, all of which are confirmed as Public Domain in the U.S. +unless a copyright notice is included. Thus, we do not necessarily +keep eBooks in compliance with any particular paper edition. + +Most people start at our Web site which has the main PG search facility: + + https://www.gutenberg.org + +This Web site includes information about Project Gutenberg-tm, +including how to make donations to the Project Gutenberg Literary +Archive Foundation, how to help produce our new eBooks, and how to +subscribe to our email newsletter to hear about new eBooks. + + + +</pre> + +</body> +</html> + + + + + |