"
The present selection is the episode of Nala and Damayanti. It is one of
the most charming of the "Mahabharata" stories, and its Oriental flavor
and delicacy have been well preserved by the translator, Sir Edwin
Arnold.
L.F.C.
THE MAHABHARATA
NALA AND DAMAYANTI
Part I
A prince there was, named Nala, Virasen's noble breed,
Goodly to see, and virtuous; a tamer of the steed;
As Indra 'midst the gods, so he of kings was kingliest one,
Sovereign of men, and splendid as the golden, glittering sun;
Pure, knowing scripture, gallant; ruling nobly Nishadh's lands;
Dice-loving, but a proud, true chief of her embattled bands;
By lovely ladies lauded; free, trained in self-control;
A shield and bow; a Manu on earth; a royal soul!
And in Vidarbha's city the Raja Bhima dwelled;
Save offspring, from his perfect bliss no blessing was withheld;
For offspring, many a pious rite full patiently he wrought,
Till Damana the Brahman unto his house was brought.
Him Bhima, ever reverent, did courteously entreat,
Within the Queen's pavilion led him, to rest and eat;
Whereby that sage, grown grateful, gave her--for joy of joys--
A girl, the gem of girlhood, and three brave lusty boys--
Damana, Dama, Danta, their names:--Damayanti she;
No daughter more delightful, no sons could goodlier be.
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