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

44
MALAYAN LITERATURE
Thee into pieces. Thou shouldst go alone
To 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 heart
Is all I want to steal. Should spectres come
In 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 dares
Oppose my will? Pure gold, all virginal,
"
Where wouldst thou go ? So spake the King, and fair
Young Bidasari trembled more and more.
"
Approach me not," she cried, " but let me bathe
My face."
"
I'll bathe it for thee, dear," he said.
But Bidasari threw the water pure
" Not that way, child," he laughed ;
Into his face.
"
My vesture thou hast wet. But I shall stay
And 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 wish
To go away. Oh, have no fear, my child;
I would not harm thee. When thy parents come,
ril ask them for thy hand. I trust they'll grant
My prayer. I'll lead thee forth from this fair spot
Unto my palace. Thou shalt sit beside
The 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 rude
I 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 fond
Have given their consent, I'll lead thee forth.
My palace is not far. A single day
Will take us there. It is not difficult
To go and come." Then Bidasari knew
It was the King of that same land. With fright