Scarce the King
Had heard the mantri's word when off he rushed
To see the fair domain. Before the gate
He stood astonished. "Truly, mantris mine,
It is as you have said. I once was here
And then the wood was filled with thorns and briers."
"'Tis not a nobleman's campong. It must
Have recently been made. Now summon all
The mantris here and see what they will say."
They called aloud, "Oh, hasten, friends, and bring
The water here." Seven times they called, but none
Responded. Said the King, "It is enough.
'Tis like as if one called unto the dead."
"We'd best not enter," said the mantris then,
"It may be the abode of demons fell.
We are afraid. Why should we linger here?
Return, O King, for should the spirits come
It might to us bring evil. Thou shouldst not
Expose thyself to danger." But the King
Upon the mantris smiled. "Ye are afraid
Of demons, spectres, spirits? I've no fear.
Break down the barriers. I'll go alone
Within the precincts." When the gates were forced,
He entered all alone. The mantris all
Were terrified lest harm should come to him.
They sought with him to go. He lightly said:
"No, mantris mine, whatever God hath willed,
Must happen. If in flames I were to burn,
In God I still should trust. 'Tis only He
That evil can avert. We mortal men
No power possess. With my own eyes I wish
To see this apparition. Should it be
The will of God, I'll come forth safe and sound.
Be not disturbed. In case of urgent need
I'll call upon ye. All await me here."
The mantris made obeisance and replied,
"Go, then, alone, since thou hast willed it so."
perpustakaan sri jauhari
(Perpustakaan Sri Jauhari)
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