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

BIDASARI 75
The King then took his leave with the young prince.
With many mantris following. The strains
Of gladsome music sounded. All the bells
Were rung, and those without the cavalcade
Were sad.
Ere long they came to the frontier,
And King met King. The folk of Kembajat
Were all astonished at the young King's face.
As beautiful as painter's masterpiece.
The old King looked with smiles on all. His joy
Was great. The King of Indrapura bowed
Respectfully, and made them bring to him
The elephant that bore 'neath gay payong
"
His 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 been
Enough if thou hadst mantris sent instead."
His joy o'erflowed his heart. His son-in-law
He greatly loved. Upon his elephant
"
He said : Approach, my son, thou art a king
Renowned. Thy body and thy soul are both
"
Alike, and both of royal stock ! He pressed
" Him in his arms and said : Light of ray eyes.
Almighty God hath heard my many prayers,
And granted me a perfect son-in-law."
The King of Indrapura bowed and smiled
Most graciously. Then to the young prince said
"
His 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 then
Amid a joyous throng. When they had come.
The former merchant bowed before them both.
The mangkouboumi now. The mighty King
Of Indrapura bowed and said :
" My sire,
Speak to my uncle here for he ; brought up
Thy daughter." Scarcely had the old King heard
These words than he
"
exclaimed with : joy Come here,
My brother, let us now acquaintance make."