Malayan literature; comprising romantic tales, epic poetry and royal ...

BIDASARI 8s
He went to the appointed place, and all
The children of the court assembled there
Before him, while two sons of heralds stood
Beside him, waving fans Hke floating clouds.
All kept the strictest silence. Then a band
Of soldiers came, with blades all glittering.
The royal sword, all diamond decked, flashed rays
Of light. Three times around the island went
They all, with sound of music and the noise
Of bells. And all who heard in vain essayed
To estimate the number. Everyone
Ran forth to see the progress—men and women.
Some tore their garments, some their children lost.
Distracted by the pleasure and the noise.
When ended the procession, the young prince
At Princess Mendoudari's right was placed.
Within the palace. Then to them \^s brought
Rice called adapadap, and they became
A wedded pair. And all the folk dispersed.
In three days' time was Mendoudari dressed
Anew by Bidasari. She was robed
With vesture of embroidered silk. The prince
Was Hkewise gayly clad, to suit the glad
Occasion. Now again they made, in state;
A royal progress round about the isle.
The King
and Bidasari rode in one
Grand chariot, and, within another, went
The prince and Mendoudari, his fair bride.
Then back they came for rest, upon the soft
Rich palace cushions. Then the mighty King
Of Kembajat inquired of his dear wife :
" What think'st thou, love ? Shall we to-morrow morn
Return ? " With smiles the Queen replied, " I bear
Thine orders on my head." Next day the hearts
Of all the royal company were filled
With joy. The officers assembled then
To take the King's commands, and he was pleased
To see them dutiful. The following morn
The song of the bajans awaked the King.
At early dawn each princess with her lord.