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

But the young prince kept Sinapati there.
Now he already strong affection felt
For him and said :
''
BIDASARI 57
My friend, toward thee Fm moved
And look upon thee as a brother dear.
Thou dost at Indrapura live, but who
May be thy patron there ? " Then with a smile
"
Young Sinapati said : My patron's called
Lila Djouhara, merchant great. He owns
Some six or seven swift ships, and toileth more
Than ever since he Bidasari took
As child." In two days' time the young prince went
With Sinapati to his father's house.
"
I bring thee news," he said, "but nothing yet
Is sure. Behold from Indrapura far
A youth, from whom I've things of import great.
A merchant of Pesara, very rich,
My sister must have found. All well agrees
With what to me thou saidst. Now must we seek
For confirmation of the glad report."
To Sinapati gold and gems they gave.
Then spake the King :
" If this be so I'll send
An envoy bearing richest gifts, and thanks
Within a letter writ."
The youthful prince
Bowed low and said :
Lila Djouhara
" Oh, send me on this quest !
I would like to see.
Perhaps he's virtuous and just.
If I
Am made full sure it is my sister dear,
I'll send a messenger. And if it be
I'll bring her back."
To hear his son thus speak.
The King was moved
" 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 I
Be long away ? " the prince replied, with bows ;
"
For if Lila Djouhara will not let
Her come,
The King could now no more object.
I shall forthwith return to thee."
He gave