Malayan Literature by Various
page 9 of 249 (03%)
page 9 of 249 (03%)
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I cannot journey more." The King was quite
Beside himself and fainted where he sat. But on they journeyed to the riverside, Stopping at every step. And when the King Had gained the bank he saw a little boat With roof of bent bamboos and _kadjang_ screen. Then to the Queen, "Rest here, my precious one." The silver moon was at the full, but veiled With clouds, like to a maid who hides her face And glances toward her lover timidly. Then there was born a daughter, like a flower, More beautiful than statue of pure gold, Just like the tulips that the princess plucked. The mother's heart was broken at the thought That she must leave the babe, the child beloved They both adored, such beauty it presaged. The King with tears exclaimed, "How can we take The infant with us o'er this stony road Beset with thorns, and burned with dreadful heat? Pearl of my palace," said he to the Queen, "Weep not so bitterly about the child. An offering let us make of her to God. God grant she may be found by loving hearts Who'll care for her and raise her in their home." As soon as they had quite determined there To leave the infant princess, their great grief No limit knew. But ere they went away The King took up the infant in his arms |
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