The bird is a great favorite with
the Indian poets, as the nightingale with Europeans.
[42] Palace of King Dushyanta, so-called because it was as lofty as the
clouds.
ACT SEVENTH
Scene.--The Sky
_Enter King Dushyanta and Matali in the car of Indra, moving in the
air_.
KING.--My good Matali, it appears to me incredible that I can merit such
a mark of distinction for having simply fulfilled the behests of the
great Indra.
MATALI [_smiling_].--Great Prince, it seems to me that neither of you is
satisfied with himself--
You underrate the service you have rendered,
And think too highly of the god's reward:
He deems it scarce sufficient recompense
For your heroic deeds on his behalf.
KING.--Nay, Matali, say not so. My most ambitious expectations were more
than realized by the honor conferred on me at the moment when I took my
leave. For,
Tinged with celestial sandal, from the breast
Of the great Indra, where before it hung,
A garland of the ever-blooming tree
Of Nandana was cast about my neck
By his own hand: while, in the very presence
Of the assembled gods, I was enthroned
Beside their mighty lord, who smiled to see
His son Jayanta envious of the honor.
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