The Day's Work - Part 01 by Rudyard Kipling
page 38 of 267 (14%)
page 38 of 267 (14%)
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"I was content to let them toil -well content," said Hanuman.
"What had I to do with Gunga's anger?" said the Bull. "I am Bhairon of the Common Folk, and this my staff is Kotwal of all Kashi. I spoke for the Common People." "Thou?" The young God's eyes sparkled. "Am I not the first of the Gods in their mouths to-day?" returned Bhairon, unabashed. "For the sake of the Common People I said - very many wise things which I have now forgotten, but this my staff-" Krishna turned impatiently, saw the Mugger at his feet, and kneeling, slipped an arm round the cold neck. "Mother," he said gently, "get thee to thy flood again. The matter is not for thee. What harm shall thy honour take of this live dirt? Thou hast given them their fields new year after year, and by thy flood they are made strong. They come all to thee at the last. What need to slay them now? Have pity, mother, for a little - and it is only for a little.""If it be only for a little " the slow beast began. "Are they Gods, then?" Krishna returned with a laugh, his eyes looking into the dull eyes of the River. "Be certain that it is only for a little. The Heavenly Ones have heard thee, and presently justice will be done. Go now, mother, to the flood again. Men and cattle are thick on the waters - the banks fall - the villages melt because of thee." |
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