Scarce the KingHad heard themantri'sword when off he rushedTo see the fair domain. Before the gateHe stood astonished. "Truly,mantrismine,It is as you have said. I once was hereAnd then the wood was filled with thorns and briers.""'Tis not a nobleman'scampong. It mustHave recently been made. Now summon allThemantrishere and see what they will say."They called aloud, "Oh, hasten, friends, and bringThe water here." Seven times they called, but noneResponded. Said the King, "It is enough.'Tis like as if one called unto the dead."
"We'd best not enter," said themantristhen,"It may be the abode of demons fell.We are afraid. Why should we linger here?Return, O King, for should the spirits comeIt might to us bring evil. Thou shouldst notExpose thyself to danger." But the KingUpon themantrissmiled. "Ye are afraidOf demons, spectres, spirits? I've no fear.Break down the barriers. I'll go aloneWithin the precincts." When the gates were forced,He entered all alone. ThemantrisallWere terrified lest harm should come to him.They sought with him to go. He lightly said:"No,mantrismine, whatever God hath willed,Must happen. If in flames I were to burn,In God I still should trust. 'Tis only HeThat evil can avert. We mortal menNo power possess. With my own eyes I wishTo see this apparition. Should it beThe will of God, I'll come forth safe and sound.Be not disturbed. In case of urgent needI'll call upon ye. All await me here."Themantrismade obeisance and replied,"Go, then, alone, since thou hast willed it so."Into the plaisance strode the King. He sawThat all was like a temple richly decked,With rugs of silk and colored tapestriesOf pictured clouds and wheels all radiant,And lamps and candelabra hung about,And lanterns bright. 'Twas like a palace rich.The eyes were dazzled with magnificence.And seats there were, and dainty tables rare.As through the palace went the King, the moreAstonished he became at all he saw,But nowhere found a trace of human soul.Then spake the little bird: "Illustrious King,What seek'st thou here? This mansion is the houseOf ghosts and demons who will injure thee."The King was filled with wonder thus to hearA bird address him. But it flew away,And hid behind a couch. "The bird I'll find,"He said, and ope'd the curtains soft. He sawFull stretched, upon a bed in dragon's shape,A human form, in heavy-lidded sleepThat seemed like death, and covered with a clothOf blue, whose face betokened deepest grief."Is it a child celestial?" thought the King,"Or doth she feign to sleep? Awake, my sweet,And let us be good friends and lovers true."So spake the King, but still no motion saw.He sat upon the couch, and to himselfHe said: "If it a phantom be, why areThe eyes so firmly shut? Perhaps she's dead.She truly is of origin divine,Though born a princess." Then he lifted highThe covering delicate that hid the formOf Bidasari sweet, and stood amazedAt all the magic beauty of her face.Beside himself, he cried, "Awake, my love."He lifted her and said, with kisses warm,"Oh, have no fear of me, dear heart. Thy voiceOh, let me hear, my gold, my ruby pure,My jewel virginal. Thy soul is mine.Again he pressed her in his arms, and gaveHer many kisses, chanting love-songs low."Thou dost not wake, O dearest one, but thouArt yet alive, because I see thee breathe.Sleep not too long, my love. Awake to me,For thou hast conquered with thy lovelinessMy heart and soul." So fell the King in loveWith Bidasari. "Ah, my sweet," he said,"In all the world of love thou'rt worthiest."Themantrisgrew uneasy at his stay.They rose and said: "What doth the King so long?If harm befell him, what would be our fate?Oh, let us call him back at once, my lords."So one approached the palace, and cried out:"Return, O prince accomplished, to us now.Already night is near. Back thou may'st comeTo-morrow ere the dawn. We are afraidLest spirits harm thee. Come, O King, for weA-hungered are, and wait for thy return."But the illustrious prince was mad with loveOf Bidasari. Pensively he cried:"Branch of my heart, light of mine eyes, my love,Pure gold, thou'rt like angel. Now must IDepart. To-morrow I will come again."With no more words he left her, but returned."My heart would tell me, wert thou really dead.Some trouble hast thou, dearest one?" he cried."What bitter grief hath caused thee thus to sleep?"He found the nobles murmuring and vexed."O King," they said, "our hearts were filled with fearLest evil had befallen thee. What sightSo strange hath kept thee all these hours?" The KingReplied with laughter, "There was naught to see."But they remarked his brow o'ercast with thought,And said, "O King, thy heart is sorely vexed.""Nay, nay," the King replied, "I fell asleep.Naught did I hear except themantri's*voice.It surely is the home of demons dreadAnd spirits. Let us go, lest they surpriseUs here." He seemed much moved. "We naught have gainedBut weariness. So let us all go homeTo-night, and hither come again at dawn.For I a promise gave the Queen to bringA fawn and akidjang." Themantrissaid:"None have we taken yet. But game we'll findTo-morrow, and will save a pretty fawn."The King, when they returned, went straight withinThe palace. There he saw the Queen, but thoughtOf Bidasari. "O my love," he said,"To-morrow I'm resolved to hunt again,And bring thee back a fawn, and win thy thanks.I'm never happy when away from thee,My dearest love. Thine image is engravedUpon my heart." Then he caressed the QueenAnd fondled her, but still his heart went outTo Bidasari. All night long his eyesHe did not close in sleep, but thought of her,In all her beauty rare. Before the dawnThe royal couple rose. The King then gaveCommand that those who wished should hunt againWith him. At sunrise forth they fared.
On Bidasari let us look again.When night had gone, in loneliness she rose,And ate and drank. Then to the bath perfumedShe went, and coming to her chamber, tookSomesirifrom the betel-box. She sawAsepahrecently in use and castIt forth. She thought within herself:"Who could have used it? Someone hath been here."She ran through all the rooms, but nothing foundExcept thesepahin the betel-box."Had it my father been, he would have leftSome food for me. Oh, he is very rashTo leave me here alone." Upon the couchShe sat and wept, and could not tell her griefTo anyone. "When we no longer mayLive happily," she said, "'tis best to die.My parents never can forgiven be,To leave me here like any infidel.And if I suffer, they will sorrow, too."Theminahs, thebajans, and talking birdsBegan to sing. She took a 'broidered cloth,And 'neath its folds she sweetly fell asleep.
The King's horse flew apace to thecampongOf Bidasari. All themantrissaid:"Thou takest not the path for hunting, sire;This is but thecampongof demons dreadAnd spectres. They may do us deadly harm."The great prince only laughed, and made as if
He heard not, still directing his fleet courseTo Bidasari's garden, though they soughtHis wishes to oppose. When they arrivedBefore the palisades, themantriscried:"Avaunt, ye cursed demons, and begoneInto the thorns and briers." Then to the King:"If thou wilt prove the courage of thy men,Lead us behind the barriers, amongThe evil spirits. We will go with thee.""Nay. Let me go alone," the prince replied,"And very shortly I'll come forth again."They said: "O prince, to us thy will is law.To God most high do we commend thy soul."Alone the prince in Bidasari's homeSet foot. He was astonished, for he saw the bathHad recently been used, and all the lampsWere trimmed and full of oil. Then openingThe chests, he saw the traces of a meal,And glasses freshly drained. The chambers allHe searched, and came to Bidasari's couch,And, lifting up the curtains, saw her there,Asleep beneath the 'broidered covering."Tis certain that she lives," he said. "PerchanceIt is her lot to live at night, and dieAt dawn." Then came he nearer yet, and gazedUpon her beauty. Ling'ring tears he sawBedewed her lashes long, and all his heartWas sad. Her face was beautiful. Her locksFramed * with curls most gracefully. He tookHer in his arms and cried, with kisses warm:"Why hast thou suffered, apple of my eye?"He wept abundantly, and said: "My gold,My ruby, my carbuncle bright, thy faceIs like Lila Seprara's, and thy birthIs pure and spotless. How could I not loveA being fair as thou dost seem to me?Thy beauty is unspeakable; thou artAbove all crowns, the glory of all lands.My soul adores thee. Lord am I no moreOf my own heart. Without thee, love, I couldNo longer live; thou art my very soul.Hast thou no pity to bestow on me?"The more he looked the more he loved. He kissedHer ruby lips, and sang this lowpantoum:
Within a vase there stands a china rose;Go buy a box of betel, dearest one.I love the beauty that thine eyes disclose;Of my existence, dear, thou art the sun.
Go buy a box of betel, dearest one.Adorned withsountingsbrave of sweetcampak,Of my existence, dear, thou art the sun;Without thee, everything my life would lack.
Adorned withsountingsfair of sweetcampak,A carafe tall will hold the sherbet rare;Without thee, everything my heart would lack;Thou'rt like an angel come from heaven so fair.
A carafe tall will hold the sherbet rare,Most excellent for woman's feeble frame.Thou'rt like an angel come from heaven so fair,Love's consolation, guardian of its flame.
At the approach of night themantrissaid,"What doth the King so long away from us?"They were disturbed, the prince seemed so unlikeHimself and filled with such unrestfulness."I fear me much," then said amantrithere,"That some mishap hath overwhelmed the King.Perhaps by some bad spirit he's possessed,That he to this weird spot should fain return."One went and cried: "Come hither, O our King!The day declines; we've waited here since dawn."The King responded to the call, and cameWith smiling face, though pale, unto the gate:"Come here, my uncle; come and talk with me,Thy King. No evil thing hath come to pass.""O lord supreme, most worthy prince, return.If harm should come to thee, we all should die.""Be calm, my uncle, I will not this nightReturn, but he may stay with me who wills.""O King, with spirits what hast thou to do?Thy face is pale and worn, and tells of care."The King but sighed, and said: "My heart is fullOf trouble, but the will of God is good.Here yesterday a fair celestial formWith angel face I saw. 'Twas here alone."And so the King told all that had occurred."Go back," he added. "Leave me here with her.Say to the Queen I've lingered still a dayFor my amusement, with my retinue."Then half the escort stayed, and half repairedBack to the palace to acquaint the QueenThe King would stay another day and hunt.When all was dark, sweet Bidasari wakedAnd saw the King, and tried to flee away.He seized and kissed her. "Ruby, gold," he said,"My soul, my life, oh, say, where wouldst thou go?I've been alone with thee for two whole days,And all the day thou wrapped in sleep didst lie.Where wouldst thou go, my dove?" The gentle girlWas much afraid and trembled, and she thought:"Is it a spirit come to find me here?Avaunt thee and begone, O spectre dread,"She said, amid her tears. "No phantom I,"Replied the King; "be not afraid. I wishTo marry thee." Then Bidasari stroveAgain to flee. Then sang the King a songThat told of love and happiness. Its wordsAstonished Bidasari, and she cried:"Art thou a pirate? Why dost thou come here?Speak not such things to me. If thou shouldst beDiscovered by my father, he would cutThee into pieces. Thou shouldst go aloneTo death, and find no pardon in his heart.Take all my gems and hasten forth at once."The King replied: "'Tis not thy gems I want,But thee. I am a pirate, but thy heartIs all I want to steal. Should spectres comeIn thousands, I would fear them not at all.No tears, my love, bright glory of my crown.Where wouldst thou go? Hast thou no pity, sweet,For me? I am a powerful prince. Who daresOppose my will? Pure gold, all virginal,Where wouldst thou go?" So spake the King, and fairYoung Bidasari trembled more and more."Approach me not," she cried, "but let me batheMy face." "I'll bathe it for thee, dear," he said.But Bidasari threw the water pureInto his face. "Not that way, child," he laughed;"My vesture thou hast wet. But I shall stayAnd meet thy parents here. Oh, hearken, love.I followed far the chase, and wandered here.I sought a pretty fawn to take the Queen;But now thy face I've seen, no more I wishTo go away. Oh, have no fear, my child;I would not harm thee. When thy parents come,I'll ask them for thy hand. I trust they'll grantMy prayer. I'll lead thee forth from this fair spotUnto my palace. Thou shalt sit besideThe Queen, and live in happiness complete."Sweet Bidasari bowed her head and wept,All red with modesty. Unto herself she said:"I never thought it was a king. How rudeI was! I hope the King will not be vexed."He calmed her fears with tender words of love."Branch of my heart," he said, "light of my eyes,Have no more fear. Soon as thy parents fondHave given their consent, I'll lead thee forth.My palace is not far. A single dayWill take us there. It is not difficultTo go and come." Then Bidasari knewIt was the King of that same land. With frightShe nearly swooned at thought of all the woeThe Queen had caused her. "O my lord," she said,"I'm but a subject humble. Give me notThe throne. I have my parents, and with themMust stay." The King was overjoyed. "My dear,"He said, "by what names are thy parents known?"With low, sweet voice the tender girl replied:"Lila Djouhara is my father's name.He dwelleth in Pesara." "Dearest one,Tell me the truth. Why have they treated theeIn such a fashion—why abandoned theeIn solitude? Thy father is not poorA merchant rich is he, of birth, who hathA host of slaves and servants. For what causeHath he his daughter left in this far spot?He is renowned among the merchants all,Both good and honest. What hath forced him hereWithin this lonely wood to hide thee, dear?Oh, tell me all; let nothing be concealed."She thought: "It was the fault of his own Queen.But if I tell him all—he never sawMe there, within the palace—should he notBelieve, I'll be a liar in his eyes."She feared to speak and tell him of the Queen.She thought, "So cruel was the Queen to meWhen she but feared a rival, what would comeIf I should sit beside her on the throne?"Then in her sweet voice Bidasari said:"My glorious King, I am afraid to speak.I am not suited to a royal throne.But since thou lovest me, how dare I lie?If thou dost favor me, the Queen will vexHer heart. My parents fear her. 'Tis the causeWhy hither they have brought me. Three long monthsAgo I came, for terror of the Queen."She thought on all the horror of those days,And choked with sobs, and could no longer talk.Then tenderly the King spake to the girl:"Ah, well, my darling love, confide in meThe secret thy dear heart conceals. Fear naught;The Queen is good and wise, and knoweth howTo win all hearts. Why should she render theeUnhappy? Speak not thus, my pretty one;The Queen could never do an evil deed.When thou art near her, thou shalt see, my dear,Whether she loves or hates thee."
At these wordsYoung Bidasari knew the King esteemedThe Queen, and felt her heart sink in her breast."My words are true," she said, "but still perchanceMy prince cannot believe. But was I notWithin thy palace six or seven nights?The sweat of pain became my couch, so greatWas my desire to see my parents dear.They sent me dainties, but all thedyangsWere kept as prisoners by the princess there.She said she'd take me back herself. One dayI was, indeed, sent home, but scarce alive."She told him everything that came to pass.He listened stupefied, and said: "How couldIt be that thou wert in the palace hid,And I not see thee there? Why was it thouWert not beside the Queen? I've never leftThe palace for a single day. Where wertThou hid? Thy strange words I believe, my dear.Speak without fear and let me know the whole."Urged by the King, young Bidasari toldHim all. And when the conduct of the QueenHe learned, the King was wonder-struck. A rageMost terrible possessed him. But his loveFor Bidasari mounted higher stillAnd his compassion. "So the Queen thus wrought!I never thought hypocrisy could beSo great! I never in the princess sawSuch bent for evil. But be not, my dear,Disconsolate. It is a lucky thingThou didst not quite succumb. No longer speakOf that bad woman's ways. Thank God we've met!So weep no more, my love. I'll give to theeA throne more beautiful than hers, and beThy dear companion until death." "O King,"She said: "I have no beauty fit to graceA throne. Oh, let me stay a simple maid,And think of me no more." The King replied:"I will not give thee up. But I must stillReturn, and meditate how I may winThee back to life complete." With kisses warmHe covered her fair face. She bowed her head,And silence kept; and when the morning dawnedShe swooned anew. It was a proof to himThat she had told the truth. A mortal hateThen filled the prince's heart against the Queen.Touched with deep pity for the maiden young,He kissed her once again, and left her there,So white and still, as if she lay in death.What of themantris? They awaited longThe King, in silence. Then the oldest said:"O sovereign lord, O caliph great, wilt thouNot now return?" "I'll come again, dear heart,"He said, and sought the city. Straight he wentInto the palace, to the Queen, who asked:"What bringest thou from hunting?" He repliedIn murmurs: "I have taken naught at all.For my own pleasure I remained all night.""'Tis nothing, lord, provided no harm cameTo thee. But say what thou didst seek, to staySo long? I always have prepared for theeThe food for thy great hunts, but never yetHave I received a recompense?" The KingTo this replied with smiles: "Prepare afresh,For I to-morrow shall depart again.If I take nothing, I'll return at once."As he caressed the Queen, upon her breastHe felt the little magic fish of goldAll safe. Then gave he quick commands to all."I'll hunt to-morrow, and shall surely bringSome wondrous game." Now when the princess fellAsleep he found upon her heart no moreThe little fish. "'Tis as the maiden said,"He thought. "The princess hath a wicked soul.With such a heart I cannot go with herThrough life." Through all the night he could not sleep,But thought upon the girl. He was as sadAs though he heard a touching song. At dawnThe royal couple rose and went to bathe.The King into the palace came againAnd sat upon the throne adorned with gems.He donned the royal robe to wear beforeThe dear young girl. A vestment 'twas of silk,All gold embroidered, with a tunic bright,Of orange hue. His mien was most superb,As doth become a mighty king. He boreA quiver of Ceylon, most deftly wrought.When all themantrishad assembled there,The King within the palace once more wentAnd met the Queen. Caressing her he tookThe little fish that lay upon her breast.The princess wept, and at the door she cried:"Why takest thou my little ornament?"The great King gave no heed, and went away,At dawn's glad hour, when birds begin to sing.Swords gleamed and lances shone, and through the woodThey hastened on, with quivers and blow-guns,And seemed a walking city.
Now againTo Bidasari let us turn. When dawnAppeared, she rose and sat in loneliness,Her face grew still more beautiful. Her stateAstonished her. "Perhaps it is the KingWho hath this wonder wrought. How happy ITo be no longer dead!" She washed her faceAnd felt still sad, but with her pensivenessA certain joy was mingled, for her painWas passed. Her grief the "talking bird" allayedWith songs about the mighty King and love.
There'ssiriin a golden vase,Good Dang Melini plants a rose;The King admires a pretty face,To-day he'll come to this fair close.
Good Dang Melini plants a rose,Here in the garden they will meet;To-day he'll come to this fair close,To man and maiden love is sweet.
Here in the garden they will meet,Go seek the fairest fruit and flower;To man and maiden love is sweet,The King is coming to the bower.
Lo! At this very instant they approached.Dear Bidasari hid behind the couch.The King searched everywhere, and found at lastThe maiden hiding, bathed in bitter tears.Then kissing her, the King inquired: "My love,Bright glory of my crown; pray tell to meWhy thou art sad." He dried her tears. But sheStill hung her head in silence. Then the KingFor elephants and horses to be sentGave orders. "Go withmantristwo at once,And bring the merchant and his wife, and bidFortydyangsto hasten here forthwith."Then went themantrisforth in haste, and foundThe merchant and his wife and said, "The KingInviteth ye to come." Then through the woodThe parents hurried to the plaisance fairOf Bidasari, there to meet the King.Before his Majesty they bowed with fear.The great King smiled. "Be not afraid," he said,"My uncle and my mother. Let us goWithin, to see thy lovely child. I makeYe now my parents. We have friendly been,And still shall be." Beside the King they sawFair Bidasari seated, as with stepsStill hesitating they the palace sought.The father fond was glad within his heart,His daughter was so beautiful. She seemedA princess lovely of the Mount Lidang."Dear Bidasari, sweetest child," they said,"Behind the King, dear daughter, thou should stand."She made as if to go, but still the KingRestrained her, "No, my pretty one," he said;"Thy place is at my side. So God hath willed."The oldestmantri, called for counsel, spoke:"Lila Djouhara good, what sayest thou?Art thou not glad to see thy daughter madeA queen? What happiness hath come to thee!"The merchant bowed before the King, and said:"Make her thy servant, not thy wife, my lord.Thy glorious Queen we fear. She e'er hath shownFor Bidasari hatred dire, becauseA child so lovely might attract the King."The monarch hearing him thus speak, still moreToward him was borne. "My uncle," then he cried,"Have no more fear. But never shall I makeA servant of thy daughter."
Then he gaveCommand to build a castle in the wood.And all the workers came, and built it there,With ramparts three. As if by magic thenA golden palace rose. The outer gateWas iron, loaded down with arms, and heldBy demons and by Ethiopians.These were the keepers of the gates, with steedsUntamed. With swords unsheathed they stood alertAnd waited for the King's commands. Of brassAll chiselled was the second gate, suppliedWith cannons and with powder, guarded safeBy beings supernatural. The thirdWas silver, such as may be seen in farEirak. The beauty of the castle wasBeyond compare! From far it seemed to beAs double, like an elephant with twoWhite ivory tusks. Where may its like be found?Three diamonds pure reflected all the light,Big as a melon. Now the castle built,The King a plaisance beautiful desiredWith gay pavilions, and all kinds of plants.The middle booth nine spacious rooms displayed,One for the royal audiences, adornedAnd pleasant as a bed of flowers.
The KingA festival maintained for forty days,With games and sports and dances to divert.And never was such animation seen!All ate and drank to sound of music sweet.They passed the loving-cup and drank to eachIn turn.
For forty days resounded thereThe gongs andgendarangs, and joyous tonesOf gayserouniandnefiriglad."How beautiful is Bidasari!" allExclaimed; "a thousand times more lovely thanThe Queen. Thrice happy are the merchant nowAnd his good wife; by marriage they're alliedTo our great King, though strangers to the land.We count it strange that Bidasari's faceIn naught is like the merchant nor his wife.Who knoweth but that she, in mortal shape,An angel fair may be? Full many slavesThe merchant hath, but never children own.""He found her when a babe, upon the shore,"Another said, "and brought her up."
The KingHeard all their words. He thought: "It is the truthAnd this I take as proof of her high birth.She certainly is noble or come downFrom heaven."
When four days had fled, the wivesOfmantrisdressed the beauteous girl. They cladHer form in satins soft of Egypt, shotWith gold, adorned with precious stones insetAnd many gems. Her beauty was enhancedThe more, till she a radiant angel seemed.She wore a tunic, crimson and pomegranate,With buttons shaped like butterflies. She wasAdorned withpadakaof five quaint clasps,And belt callednaga souma. Ear-rings richShe had, of diamonds set in gold, and wroughtMost wondrously, as bright as daylight's gleam;A ring most marvellous and rare she woreCalledastakouna, and another namedGland kana, and a third from far Ceylon,Studded with precious stones. Her eyes were likeThe stars of orient skies. Her teeth were black,Her face like water shone. Her chiselled noseWas prominent and Mike a flower fresh culled.When she was dressed, upon a couch of pearlsHer mother put her. Supple was her form,And white, as she reclined, by many maidsSurrounded. In his royal garb the princeWas clad, and dazzling to the eyes of allWho saw. He wore a kingly crown which shoneWith diamonds bright and lucent amethystsAnd many stones, and all majestic seemed.Then rice was brought. The King with pleasure ateAnd what was left he gave themantris'wives.When all had finished he perfumed himselfAnd gazed upon his lovely wife. Her faceAnd form were charming. Her soft tresses curledIn grace. Her eyes still kept the trace of tears,Which made her lovelier. The silken foldsOf soft Egyptian curtains fell. They were alone."Awake, my darling," said the prince at dawn,"Crown of my life, awake, my pretty one."Then Bidasari waked and said, with tears:"My friend, I had all sorts of wondrous dreams.I saw a palm-tree tall with tufted limbs,And fruits all ripe." When three days more had fledAnd all the people saw and loud acclaimed,Then Bidasari took the rank of Queen.The King o'erloaded her with gifts and lovedHer tenderly. "Oh, let us live and dieTogether, dear, and, as the days go by,Think more of one another, and our lovePreserve, as in the hollow of the handOil is upheld, nor falls a single drop."So spake the King.
The merchant and his wifeWere soon established in the neighborhood,Near to Queen Bidasari's palace grand.A hundred servants had they to fulfilTheir orders. They sent gifts to all their friends,And food to last a month.
A certain dayIt chanced that Bidasari said: "O King,Why goest thou no more within the gatesOf that thine other palace? Of a truthQueen Lila Sari will be vexed, becauseThou hast abandoned her so long a time.She'll think that I have kept thee from her sideUnwilling thou shouldst go." So, with all sortsOf words, fair Bidasari strove to urgeThe King to visit Lila Sari. "IWill go to-morrow," finally he said.He went, when morning came, and met the Queen.She turned him back, and with sharp, bitter wordsReproached him. "Wretched one, I will not seeThy face. I love thee not. I hate thee. Go!Lila Djouhara's son-in-law, thou'rt notTo me an equal. Thy new wife's an ape,Who liveth in the woods."
But when the KingHeard these vociferations of the Queen,He said: "Branch of my heart, light of my eyes,Oh, be not vexed, my dear. It was not IWho wrong began, but thou didst cause it all.For thou didst hide thy deed from me, and driveMe on to this extremity. Oh, whyArt thou now angry with me? If thou wiltBut love her, and attach thy heart to hers,She'll pardon thee, and take thee as a friend."As more and more enraged the Queen became,Her wrath with strong reproaches overflowed."Depart from here, accursed of God! Thou artNo longer husband mine. Go live with herWhom God hath struck, but whom thou dost delightTo honor. Formerly of noble bloodThou wert, but now no more than broken straw.Thou needst not further try to flatter me.Though thou shouldst purify thyself seven times, false one,I'd not permit thee to approach my side."The King grew angry and replied: "Tis thouWho art despicable. Thy cunning tricksAre worthless now. Thy jealousy insaneWas without cause, and common were thy acts.Thy wit is much below thy beauty.Will follow thee, should I protection cease.""Have I forgot my noble birth?" she asked.
"But thou hast erred, to lower thine high estateTo people of such base extraction. HereAnd everywhere thy shame is known, that thouArt wedded to a gadabout. Is itFor princes thus to wed a merchant's child?She ought far in the woods to dwell, and knowMost evil destiny." The King but smiledAnd said: "If this event is noised abroad,'Tis thou who wilt receive an evil name.For who in all the land would dare preventThe King from marrying? I ought to takeFrom thee all I have given. But beforeThe people I've no wish to humble thee.Is it because I met thy every wishThat thou art grown so bad? Most evil hathThy conduct been, and I with thee am wroth,"And in hot anger rushed the King away,And straight repaired to Bidasari's side.
This song will tell again about the princeOf Kembajat, most powerful. He was chasedBy fellgarouda, horrid bird of prey,And sought another land. His way he tookToward Indrapura. At the break of dawnA daughter fair was born, a princess true,Within a boat that lay upon a shore.The Queen and he abandoned her, and wentBack to the royal palace and for daysBemoaned her fate. Of her they nothing heard."Alas my child!" the father cried, "my dear,In whose care art thou now? We do not knowIf thou art dead or living. Thus thy sireHath no repose. Light of mine eyes, my love,My purest gold, our hearts are torn with grief.An evil fate was ours to hide thee there.We do repent the deed. To think that thouPerchance hath fallen among the poorest folk!A slave perhaps thou art!" The prince's sonRemarked the sorrow of his parents dear,And was profoundly moved. "Have I," he asked,"A sister? Tell me why have ye concealedHer far away? Did ye not care for her?Was she a burden that ye must forsakeHer thus? Doth shame not fill your parents' hearts?"But when he heard the tale in full, he said:"O father, let me go to seek for her,My sister dear. If I succeed I'll bringHer back to thee." "Oh, leave us not, my son,"The father said. "Thou art our only heir.Like a tamed bird upon our shoulders fainWe've carried thee, and watched thee, day and night.Why shouldst thou leave us now? Oh, go not forth.Vex not thyself about thy sister dear.From travellers we shall get news of her,And her abode discover."
Then the princeBowed low and said: "My father, lord, and King,I am but strengthened in my wish to goAnd find my sister. Let me now depart,And seek for news of her." The King replied:"Well, go, my dearest son; thy heart is good.Though but a child thou still dost bear a brain."Then summoned the young prince the merchants all,And bought much goods and questioned them in turnAbout all neighboring villages and camps.They told whate'er they knew most willingly,For much the young prince was beloved by them.Among them was a youth of handsome face,Fair Bidasari's foster-brother tall.Amid the strangers sat he near the throne;His name was Sinapati. He was braveAnd wise. Now as he watched the prince he thought,"How strangely like dear Bidasari's faceIs his, as when a reed is split in twainThere is no difference between the halves."His home he left when Bidasari fairBecame the Queen. He thought of her and wept.The prince observed him there, and said, with smiles:"Young man, my friend, from what far town art thou?Why dost thou weep so bitterly? What thoughtsArise in thee and make thy visage dark?"Young Sinapati bowed and said: "My lord,I came from Indrapura, in a ship,My wares to sell. For that I do not weep.But sorrow cometh to my heart whene'erI think upon my home, and brothers dear,And sisters."
At these words the prince rejoiced.He thought, "From him some news I'll surely learn."Sherbets and dainties then to all the folkHe offered, and the cup went 'round from dawnTill noon, and then the merchants went away;But the young prince kept Sinapati there.Now he already strong affection feltFor him and said: "My friend, toward thee I'm movedAnd look upon thee as a brother dear.Thou dost at Indrapura live, but whoMay be thy patron there?" Then with a smileYoung Sinapati said: "My patron's calledLila Djouhara, merchant great. He ownsSome six or seven swift ships, and toileth moreThan ever since he Bidasari tookAs child." In two days' time the young prince wentWith Sinapati to his father's house."I bring thee news," he said, "but nothing yetIs sure. Behold from Indrapura farA youth, from whom I've things of import great.A merchant of Pesara, very rich,My sister must have found. All well agreesWith what to me thou saidst. Now must we seekFor confirmation of the glad report."To Sinapati gold and gems they gave.Then spake the King: "If this be so I'll sendAn envoy bearing richest gifts, and thanksWithin a letter writ."
The youthful princeBowed low and said: "Oh, send me on this quest!Lila Djouhara I would like to see.Perhaps he's virtuous and just. If IAm made full sure it is my sister dear,I'll send a messenger. And if it beI'll bring her back."
The King was movedTo hear his son thus speak. "O dearest child,"He said: "I'm very loath to let thee go.But thou must many horsemen take with thee,Lest thou shouldst long be absent."
"Why should IBe long away?" the prince replied, with bows;"For if Lila Djouhara will not letHer come, I shall forthwith return to thee."The King could now no more object. He gaveCommands to make an expedition great.With richest gifts, and food, and princely things,And sent him forth with blessings on his head."Stay not too long; thou art my only hope,"The King exclaimed; "I'm getting old, my son,And thou my heir upon the throne must be."They started early on the fourteenth dayOf that same month. And Sinapati rodeBeside the Prince.
Some went on foot and someOn horses. When they far had gone, the princeSaid to the youth: "Now listen, friend. When weArrive thou must not name my familyAnd rank. I'm someone from another town.It doth not please me to declare my rankTo strangers. Should the girl my sister prove,Thou mayst tell all, for I shall soon return."Thus speaking, the young prince his way maintained,And soon arrived near to the city sought.He Sinapati left, and went withinThe gates, with four companions, true as steel,And six attendants. They at once repairedTo thecampongof good Lila Djouhara.They found it closed, with a forsaken look."There's no one here. The King hath taken allAway, both old and young," said themandar.Then Sinapati beat his breast and said:"What hath become of my dear patron, then?""Be not disturbed. No harm hath come to him.The merchant with the King hath gone, becauseThe King hath married Bidasari fair,And made of her a queen, and built a fineNew palace in the country wild. There allIs joy and happiness." Beyond all countWas Sinapati glad to hear these words.Then to the prince he said: "My gracious lord,Lila Djouhara's near at hand. He isIn highest favor with the King, and bearsA title new." They hurried forth to findHis residence. "It is the leftcampong,"Remarked a country-man. "Thy lord is grandAnd powerful now, and master of us here.The King hath now become his son-in-law."Then Sinapati went within the gatesAnd saw his mother there. Her heart was touched.She kissed him and inquired, "Whom hast thou brought?""It is a friend," he answered. "Come, my lord,"She to the young prince said, "enter and rest.""He's so like Bidasari," to herselfShe said. "What is thy name, my brave young man,Thou seemest nobly born. In very truthThou'rt handsome and well mannered." Then the princeSaid: "Poutra Bangsawan I'm called. Thy sonI've followed here." But Sinapati paidHim homage, and they knew him for a prince.Before his door young Sinapati sleptAt night to guard him safe. Next day there cameAn invitation from Lila Mengindra(Before, Djouhara). So they started forth.Lila Mengindra was astonished quiteTo see the prince's face so beautiful."Who is this most distinguished stranger here?"He asked himself. "My master, speak a wordTo Poutra Bangsawan, a friend of mine,"Said Sinapati. So the old man turnedAnd spoke unto the prince, "Come here, my son,And sit thee near thy father." He felt drawnTo him, he looked so much like Bidasari.The young prince smiled and on the dais sat."What is thy visit's purpose?" then inquiredThe good old man. The prince with bows politeReplied: "I'm but a humble stranger, comeTo find my sister. I bespeak thine aid.""Be not afraid, my son, but trust in me,Nor fear to give thy sister's name. If thouWilt have it so I'll take thee for a son;I love thee for thou hast a face so likeMy daughter's." Then the brave young prince beganAnd told his sister's story, how she wasIn time of stress abandoned on the shore."And if I only knew," he said, "where nowShe is, I'd be her master's willing slave."Now when Lila Mengindra heard his taleHis joy was quite unspeakable. His loveFor Bidasari's brother greater grew.With smiles he asked: "Now, Poutra Bangsawan,Say of what family thou art, that IMay aid thee in thy quest, and help thee findThy sister." Then the young prince bowed his headAnd pondered, "Shall I lie?" For he knew notIf 'twere his sister. Lila saw his moodAnd said: "Be not disturbed. It is most sureThat thy dear sister's here. So speak the truth,That my old heart may be surcharged with joy.Thy sister's seated on a throne, and likeA brilliant jewel is her family.Be no more sorry. As for me, my heartIs full of joy."
The prince looked in his faceAnd said: "Can I confide in him? I amA stranger here and fear to be deceived."Said Sinapati: "Speak not thus, I pray,For everybody knows this man can tellTen-carat gold from dross. Now list, my lord.Although he bids me silent be, a princeHe is, son of a powerful king, and comesTo seek his sister." Then within his heartThe former merchant much rejoiced, as ifHe'd found a mountain of pure gems. He paidHis homage to the prince in proper form,And took him into his abode, to meetHis wife and all within. The spouses twoTo him exclaimed: "Dear prince, in our old ageWe're very happy. When thy sister sweetWe found, o'erjoyed were we. And now the KingHath married her, and raised her to the throne.He hath our family to noble rankUpraised, and covered us with benefits."Then smiling said the prince: "I learn with joyMy sister sweet is here. When may I goBefore the King and see her? For I've comeTo take her home. And yet I fear the KingWill never let her go away from him.When I have seen her I'll return again."In three days' time the King gave audience.The former merchant with him took the prince,Who sent the richest presents on before.The princeling was most gorgeously attiredAnd bore himself with haughty dignity.His robe was rich, his tunic violetAnd fire. His many-colored turban boreBright agates. At his girdle hung his kriss.He was entirely clad as prince should be,And bracelets wore with little bells and rings.His leggings were embroidered with bright flowersCalledpouspa angatan. He seemed divine—His beauty was extraordinary. PearlsIn numbers countless covered all his garb;An amulet he had with sacred verseFrom the Koran, a diamond pure. He rodeA steed most richly housed, with _shabraque _deckedWith gleaming jewels casting rays of light.Twas thus the prince set out to meet the King.Lila Mengindra with him went. The princeApproached the King's pavilion, and at onceThe King remarked his beauty and his mienOf noble grace. "Who can he be?" he thought.Meanwhile the prince dismounted and appearedBefore the King. Full seven times he bowedAnd said, "O may your happiness increase,Illustrious sovereign!"
Then the King with smilesLila Mengindra questioned, "Who is thisThou hither bringest, of such noble mienAnd amiable face?"
With humble bowThe former merchant said: "This slave of thineHas come from lands remote, from Kembajat,Upon the seashore, since thy MajestyHe wished to see. His presents few he sentBefore him, which he hopes thou wilt accept."The former merchant thought: "I would his rankDivulge. But some might think I lied becauseThe King hath Bidasari wed, and ifShe knew she was a princess born she mightBe very vain and haughty."
To the princeThe King was very friendly. "Come and sitHere by my side," he said, "for thee I deemA brother." "Let me here remain, my lord,I am a poor unworthy servitor.I hope that thou wilt pardon me. I wouldI might become a subject of thy crown."The King thought: "This may be some royal heirWho here hath wandered. He resembles muchOur Bidasari, Pity 'tis that heUnto another nation doth belong."Then pleasantly he said: "Pray, truly tellWhat is thine origin? Keep nothing back.What is thy name? The whole truth let me know."The young prince bowed him low and said: "My nameIs Poutra Bangsawan, of familyMost humble. I am searching everywhereTo find a sister lost. When she is foundI shall return at once." Then said the King:"Where is thy sister? I will help thy search.Stay here with me a month or two, that weMay learn to know each other and becomeFast friends." The young prince then obeisance madeAnd said: "I bear thine orders on my head.Thou art a king illustrious, and IA humble servitor. I am the sonOf good Lila Mengindra, but for longI've absent been. My sister dear I seek.Thine aid I do bespeak. From KembajatI come, a subject of thy father there, the King.Forgive me, lord, for now thou knowest all."The King rejoiced to hear a voice that seemedSo much like Bidasari's, and inquiredOf Sinapati, "Tell me now his race."Then Sinapati bowed and said: "My lord,Of princes and of caliphs is his race.His kingdom, not so far, is most superb;His palace is most beautiful and grand.Swift ships within the harbor lie, all wellEquipped." At this the King enchanted was,To find a prince was brother to his wife.Still more he asked and Sinapati said:"Because his realm was ravaged by the foeHe hath misfortunes suffered manifold."Then knew the King he was of royal bloodAnd had adversity experienced.The King came from his throne and said, "My friend,My palace enter." So the King and princeWent in. They met fair Bidasari there.She sat beside a Chinese window quaint,All choicely carved. She saw the King and thought,"What fine young man is this he bringeth here?"When they were seated all, the young prince lookedAt Bidasari: "Beautiful is she,"He thought, "my sister dear, and very likeMy father." Then the King with smiling faceSaid: "Bidasari, darling, speak to him.He is thy younger brother, come to seekThee here. From Kembajat he came. And thyDear father mourns for thee the livelong day."At this fair Bidasari sighed. She bowedHer head and silence kept. She much was movedBecause she had not known her parents true,But fancied them Djouhara and his wife."I'm but a merchant's daughter," finallyShe said. "Things all uncertain this young princeHath told. If I'm the daughter of a King,Why hath he left me here, and never soughtFor me through all these years? 'Tis not so farFrom here to Kembajat." The young prince bowed."Thy words I bear upon my head," he said,"O sister dear. Pray banish from thy heartAll hatred. If thou'rt lowly born, I amLikewise. Our realm was ravaged at thy birth.But shortly afterward fair peace returned,And to his own my father came again.I've seen how much he suffers in his heart.Thy name he never utters without tears—He never hath forgotten thee. ForgiveHim, then, in what he was remiss. ExceptFor stern necessity he never wouldHave thee abandoned."
Then the King with smilesSaid: "Speak to him, my dear. He tells the truth.Thy parents wandered through a desert landBeneath a cruel sun. ImpossibleIt was to carry thee through brier and brush."Down at his sister's feet the young prince knelt.Then Bidasari clasped him in her arms.The brave young prince to them recounted allThe sorrows of his parents. Much he wept,And they wept, too, as he the story told.Then sat they down to dine. And afterwardTheysiritook and perfumes of all kinds.Then the young prince took leave. "Where goest thou,My brother?" asked the King. "I fain would goStraight home to my dear parents," said the prince.But, with a voice affectionate, the KingReplied: "Seek not Lila Mengindra. HereThou shouldst remain, for thou hast met withinThis palace thy dear sister. There is roomEnough for thee. Stay here with all thy folkAnd retinue." The prince bowed low, and forthUnto the merchant went, and to him said:"Within the palace now I shall remainWith all my retinue, for thus the KingCommands." The merchant said: "'Tis very wellFor where can one lodge better than withinThe palace?" So the prince returned, with allHis people, to the palace of the King.Then all themantriscame, and festivalsAnd feasts were held. As long as he remainedAt Indrapura, the young prince receivedAll courtesies. And Bidasari fairWas known as daughter of a mighty king.The news was carried far and wide, and allRepeated how her brother brave had comeTo seek for her.
Queen Lila Sari heardAnd was surprised. She sighed in solitude,And felt a woe unspeakable. She saidTo amandar: "I was in too much haste.On thedyangsI counted, but they comeNo more. All four have gone and homage paidTo Bidasari. All my tricks are foiled.In no one can I trust." Dang Lila thenApproached and said: "Acts of unfaithfulnessBring never happiness. God's on the sideOf loyalty. Now thosedyangsare sadAnd languish after thee, but fear the King,Dost thou not think, O Queen, thou ill hast wrought?For while the King is absent none will comeThy heart to cheer." The Queen replied with ire:"Seek not to consolation give. The KingEsteems me not. I'll not humiliateMyself before him. Who is that young prince,So called, who hither came? A pirate's sonHe well may prove, and calls himself a prince.Go ye,dyangs, pay service to the King,And he may favor ye as he did her."She seemed most wroth. But she repented soreIn truth, and pined away in sorrow deep.In other days she had no wish nor whimUnsatisfied. Now all were for the King.The Queen's heart angrier grew from day to dayAs if a scorpion's sting had wounded her.And her distress grew greater when she thoughtUpon the love of other days. Her heartWas inconsolable because so bitterlyShe missed the pomp and glory of her court.But Bidasari to the King one daySaid: "Send back thesemendars; for if they allStay here, Queen Lila Sari all aloneWill be." The King with smiles replied: "Oh, no!I will not let them go. She is so fellAnd barbarous, she no one loves. She isMuch better all alone." Then to the KingFair Bidasari said: "Thine anger wasToo prompt. She spoke in wrath because she wasAccustomed to a court. In what to theeHath she been wanting, that thou shouldst repelHer thus? Thou gav'st her love, and now thou dostAbandon her in sorrow. Be not thusIncensed with her, for should she come to wantThe shame would be reflected on thy head."The King's face lighted, and he said: "My dear,I went to see her, but she drove me forthWith bitter words. Her conduct was beyondAll bearing. And she heaped on me abuse."But Princess Bidasari said: "Dwell notOn that, my friend. She was disturbed by wrathAnd jealousy. In other days thou didstEmbrace and kiss her. Now she is alone.And thou perchance didst somehow hurtOr bruise her body." All his anger leftThe King at this. He said: "O purest soul,Thou speakest well and wisely. How could INot love thee, dear, and cling to thee for life?Oh, never may we separated be!Branch of my heart, light of my eyes, thou dostBut good desire. Thou'rt all the world to me.I'll go to her, since thou doth ask. PerchanceA reconciliation may be made.But she must first admit her faults. If sheRepentance shows, to see her I will go."The merchant's wife had come and heard these words.Her warm tears fell. She thought within herself,"My daughter hath no vengeance in her heart."Then Dang Bidouri brought delicious riceUnto the King and Queen. They ate and drank,And stronger grew their love from hour to hour.Then gave the King commands to call the prince.He came with smiling face and graceful bows."Sit here beside us," said the King, and allThe three dined there together, royal ones,Surrounded by deft servants anddyangs.They chatted gayly, and, with laughter, ate.When all was finished, from the betel-boxThe King ofsiritook, perfumed himself,And then the prince retired.
When two short monthsHad fled, the prince bethought him of his homeAnd parents. To himself he said, "I'll go."He gave commands to preparation makeFor his departure. "I am loath to leaveMy sister," he to Sinapati said."My life is joyous here. But there at homeI've left my parents in solicitude."Then Sinapati bowed and said, "With theeI'll go."
A certain day themantriscameBefore the King, in the pavilion grand.And with them came the youthful prince, and castHimself before the throne. The King with smilesSaid: "Sit thou at my side, my brother dear,I have not seen thee for a day entire."The princeling bowed and said: "My gracious lordIf thou wilt pardon me, I would returnAnd give my parents dear the joyful news.My father bade me seek my sister lost,And still he nothing knows of her good fate."The King replied with sorrow: "Brother mine,Why wilt thou go so soon? We scarcely areAcquainted, and I have not had enoughOf thy dear company." The prince replied:"Oh, be not sorrowful, my gracious lord.As soon as I have my dear father seenI'll tell him what good things have come to pass.'Twill soothe his heart to hear my sister's joy.My parents will be glad in learning allThy goodness great. And pray consider meThy subject leal. Soon I'll return again."The King's emotion grew. With pleasant voiceHe said: "Take counsel of thy sister. HeedWhat she may say." They found the Queen within,Fair Bidasari, and attending herDyang Agous Djouhari. All sat downAnd took somesirifrom the betel-box.The Queen to the young prince then spoke: "Come here.My brother, why have I thy face not seenFor two long days?" With bows the prince replied:"I've had a multitude of things to do.Thus came I not; for my companions allSeek homeward to return. So I must takeMy leave of thee upon the morrow morn,When pales the silver moon before the dawn."The Queen was grieved to hear these words, and shedA flood of tears. Her tender heart was touched.Beside herself with sorrow she exclaimed:"O prince illustrious! How canst thou go,Since we have met? I've loved thee from the timeI knew thou wert my brother. I am grievedTo hear thee say thou wilt so soon depart.Of low extraction must I be! 'Twas wrongFor thee to call thyself my brother. IA poor and feeble orphan am, and howShould I the love deserve of a great prince?"When this he heard the prince bowed low his headAnd was much troubled. "Sister sweet," he said,"Grieve not like this. I only do returnBecause our parents must so anxious be.I love thee so, my darling, that my heartIs nearly breaking. If thou speakest thusTo me, my dear, my grief will still increase.I could not leave thee, but I must respectOur parents' wishes. They commanded meAll haste to make. So—sweet—I pray thee haveCompassion on me."
Much disturbed, the KingObserved the sorrow of the princess fair.He kissed her lips, to her asepahgave,And said with tender voice: "My darling wife,What dost thou wish? Let now thy brother go.We'll see thy parents here ere many days."The Queen wept bitterly, and said to him:"His wishes I do not oppose. Let himDo whatsoe'er it pleaseth him to do.For I am but a stranger, a lost child,And who should think of me or love me true?"Then bowed the prince and said: "In very truth,I know thou art my sister. Speak not thus.God knows how much I love thee, sister mine.If thou dost not permit me to departI'll not resist. I'm happy here with thee,But our dear parents are in cruel doubt,And look for news of thee. Now that I knowThy husband is a king, our parents dearWould be so overjoyed to learn it too!"Then spoke the King with face all radiant,"Return not, brother mine," he said. "I'll sendSwift messengers to bear the gladsome newsThat Bidasari's found. Then, if he wills,Thy royal father here we'll hope to see.I'll go myself to meet him when he comes."The young prince bowed and said: "Nay, rather sendThy messengers, a great king cannot goSo far away." Queen Bidasari heardThese words and much rejoiced, and gayly gaveHer brother then her betel-box.
The KingCaressed his wife and said, "My dearest soul,Love not thy brother more than me." He calledLila Mengindra. Soon the merchant cameBefore the King and prince. The King exclaimed:"Come here, my uncle. Tell me, wilt thou takeA letter to the King of Kembajat—To prove to him we live?"
So spake the KingAnd called his counsellor of state, who cameAnd kissed his hands. The King then bade him writeA letter, all in characters of gold."Well," cried the King, "let's hear the letter now,""Now glory be to God," it thus began,And all fair Bidasari's historyRecited. Then the King a mighty hostAssembled and with elephants and steedsTenmantristook the letter of the princeUnto his parents. With the cavalcadeThere went alaksimanagreat, who bore,As king's ambassador, bejewelled flagsAnd standards rich, and presents of much worth.Then Sinapati by the King was calledAlaksimana mantri, and receivedA fine equipment, with a hundred menTo follow him. 'Twas thus the King preservedHis reputation as a mighty king.
When he had sent the embassy, the KingWent to his wife, and they were very gay.His love for her grew greater every day.The former merchant also was beloved.He gave the King good counsel, and obeyedHis orders willingly. He often dinedTogether with the King and Queen. His wealthGrew vast. No one at all could with him vie,In Indrapura. He was much attachedTo the chiefmantri. They were equals bothIn prudence, wisdom, and fidelity,With power unquestioned over all the folk.Beneath their sway prosperity increased,And many merchants came from far and wide.The kingdom was at peace. The King rejoiced,And everyone was happy in the land.
Thelaksimana mantrinow I'll sing,Who went upon the embassy. As soonAs the great King of Kembajat had newsOf his arrival, he was much rejoiced.He told the Queen, and in the audience-hallAwaited. Then went forth the officersWith elephants andpayongs. A countless throngAttended them, with music and with flags.They met the embassy, and, with rich gifts,They gave the King's commands. Into the townThen entered all. The King was very glad,As if his only daughter had returned.All bowed before the King, who took the gifts,While servants took the letter to the chiefOfmantris. And he gave it to the King,The monarch read, and was possessed with joy.He could not thank enough the merchant good,Who raised his daughter to a royal throne.He wished forthwith to go and see his child.The letter cordial invitation gave.But one thing troubled him: "He straight inquired,'Hath not the prince, my son, the libertyTo come back home?'" ThelaksimanabowedAnd said: "The King wished not to let him comeAnd begged with tears that he would stay. The QueenFeared if her brother went she'd never seeHer father. From your children both I bringWarm greetings. Kind indulgence from your heartThey ask, and press their invitation. ICrave pardon for myself, O King, and hopeThy children dear may see their father's face,And that the kingdoms may become one realm."At these words smiled the King. "Ah, well!" he said,"I'll wait for seven days still." Then questions flew,And the great king learned all about his child.
The Indrapuramantriswent apartWhen evening came. A separate palace grandThe King assigned them, with the best of food.He orders gave for preparations great.Unto the Queen he said: "In seven days' time,My dear, I look to start, for I shall haveNo peace until I've seen our darling child."Then he assembled there hismantrisall,Both young and old, with elephants and steeds.And all was ready to set forth, as he had wished.The while the morning stars were twinkling still,The royal gong resounded many times.The guards leaped forth with joy. The officersCame out and took their shining helms of war.Their naked swords all glistened. It was thusThey made the glittering royal cavalcade.Their flags and banners flaunted in the air,All those who stayed behind were sad, as ifA knife had cut them. All together marched,The lancers and the horsemen, and they seemedA moving city. Soon all darkened wasThe moon, as someone sorrowful. The swordsAnd lances glistened like an island inThe middle of the sea. Thus is describedThe royal escort marching through the land.The King was mounted on an elephant,Hissiri-bearer seated close behind.A richpayongof royalty, all trickedWith bells, was stretched above his head,And drums and other instruments withoutCessation sounded. Thus went forth the King,And soon to Indrapura came.
When nearHe halted and forthwith an envoy sentHis coming to announce, together withThelaksimana mantri. "Mighty King,"They said, "thy royal father hath arrived."The King his heralds ordered then to callLila Mengindra. With a smile he saidTo him: "Assemble in the square the folkAnd army. Straight to my pavilion letThem come, and all in holiday attire,For I my father am to meet to-day."Lila Mengindra bowed and hied him forthTo execute the orders of the King.The King within his palace went, and satUpon a jewelled seat. The Queen was there,And good Lila Mengindra at her side.The King said smilingly: "Light of my eyes,Let all the palace decorated be.Assemble all the palace folk and allThe younger girls. For now without the gatesOur parents wait. To-morrow I shall goTo meet them." Then Queen Bidasari cried,With smiles: "My brother they have come to see.I cannot go before them and declareMyself their daughter." But the young prince said:"Oh, speak not thus, my sister, but give heedTo what I say to thee, and be not wroth.If I'm the only one they love, aloneI'll go with them away." Then to the KingHe said: "With my dear sister I but jest,To quiet her alarms." He bowed before the KingAnd asked permission forth to go at onceTo meet his father. "Nay," replied the King,"We'll go together." A repast was servedWith every kind of food. The royal threeTogether ate. Then from the betel-boxTheysiritook, and perfumes sweet they used.The prince then from the palace forth did go.Next day the King invited him to startWith him upon the royal progress. AllThe banners waved, and everyone was glad.Then to the Queen he said: "Stay here, my love,And I will hither bring thy father dear."These words rejoiced the Queen. She said: "Go forth,My dear, and I will follow with my eyes."The King then took his leave with the young prince,With manymantrisfollowing. The strainsOf gladsome music sounded. All the bellsWere rung, and those without the cavalcadeWere sad.
Ere long they came to the frontier,And King met King. The folk of KembajatWere all astonished at the young King's face,As beautiful as painter's masterpiece.The old King looked with smiles on all. His joyWas great. The King of Indrapura bowedRespectfully, and made them bring to himThe elephant that bore 'neath gaypayongHis consort's father. "Son, where goest thou?""I've come to seek thee." Then the old King said:"Why didst thou come in person? 'Twould have beenEnough if thou hadstmantrissent instead."His joy o'erflowed his heart. His son-in-lawHe greatly loved. Upon his elephantHe said: "Approach, my son, thou art a kingRenowned. Thy body and thy soul are bothAlike, and both of royal stock!" He pressedHim in his arms and said: "Light of my eyes,Almighty God hath heard my many prayers,And granted me a perfect son-in-law."The King of Indrapura bowed and smiledMost graciously. Then to the young prince saidHis father: "Mount, my son, beside me, here."The young prince mounted at his father's side.He was as beautiful as chiselled gold.
Within the town the kings made entry thenAmid a joyous throng. When they had come,The former merchant bowed before them both,Themangkoubouminow. The mighty KingOf Indrapura bowed and said: "My sire,Speak to my uncle here; for he brought upThy daughter." Scarcely had the old King heardThese words than he exclaimed with joy: "Come here,My brother, let us now acquaintance make."The old King, seated on his elephant,Shed all about him rays of happiness,And all the people there were greatly moved."This is my brother well beloved," he said,And kissed his brow. "How great hath been his love,His faithfulness has proved beyond compare."The former merchant bowed, and to the KingReplied: "I am thy slave, O King, and bearThine orders on my head. Thou dost o'erwhelmThy servant with thy favor." Then uponThe royal throne, which was all gem-bedecked,The old King sat, the young prince at his side,With all themantrisnear. Then came the QueenConsort. The prince and Bidasari fairCame from their seats, their mother to receive.All entered then the palace. The young Queen,Fair Bidasari, bowed and was embracedBy both her parents. With a flood of tearsHer father said: "Alas, my darling child,Fruit of my heart, light of my eyes, keep notA hatred in thy soul against us now.The will of God is now made manifest.We long have separated been. At lastWe see each other with our very eyes.Great wrong we did thus to abandon thee,But still let not thy heart a stranger beTo us. Peace later came to our dear land—Such was our destiny. What could we do?We were in flight. We thought, 'May God decreeSome honorable man shall find her here!'How can we now be glad enough 'twas thusOrdained! What recompense can we present?"Sweet Bidasari wept as she recalledThe past. The King her husband was much moved,And felt great pity when her tears he saw.And all were sad with sorrow mixed with joy,Because they knew she was of royal birth.Food now was served, and quickly thedyangsBrought salvers for the princes. The two kingsAte of the rice till they were surfeited,Then to their children offered it. All tookThesiriplaced before them, and straightwayThemselves anointed with rare perfumes sweet.When all had eaten, the five royal onesLila Mengindra called, and gave to himThe remnants of the feast. The kings then spokeTo him and to his wife. They both bowed lowAnd kissed the royal hands. Then said the KingOf Kembajat: "My children, I had planned—In case we ever met on earth and ereThe prey of death became—a feast to give,To last a month, and to it ye invite.In triumph I my daughter fain would bear,With all of ye. I would at once repairUnto the isle of Nousa Antara,And there I'd hold a royal festivalWith all the members of our family,And all thebitis,mandars, anddyangs.Such was my plan—if ever I should findMy daughter dear. Now while this moon doth lastLet me the project see fulfilled beforeYour parents come to die."