Page:Journal Of The Indian Archipelago And Eastern Asia Series.i, Vol.3 (IA in.ernet.dli.2015.107696).pdf/19

A TRANSLATION OF THE KEDDAH ANNALS After the war of Rámá the Island of Lánkápúrí became a desert, and fell under the rule of the mighty bird Girdá, which however had previously harboured on the Island (b). He was a lineal descendant from Máhá Rájá Dewán, and he was strong in battle, of supernatural power, and dreaded by animals, reptiles and birds.

It happened that the bird Rájáwálí paid a visit to Girdá, and asked him if he had not learned that the King of Rum intended contracting a marriage betwixt his son and a princess of China, although these two countries lay wide apart, and that on account of the distance between them, a fleet of vessels was to be despatched from Rum to convey the royal lady from China. Girdá replied that the old Crow had already given him this information, as he had seen the gift bearing embassy on its way to China. Girdá further observed that the king of Rum would most likely fail in this attempt to display his power and consequence to distant potentates. "Have a little patience, Rájáwálí, I will instantly fly off and pay my respects to the Prophet Sūlíman (Solomon,) whose superhuman wisdom has exalted him all over the other kings of the earth - and whose prime minister is Hurman-shah. His Majestry will assuredly interdict the king of Rum from negociating such an alliance. (2) (c).

Girdá having reported to king Sulíman the state of affairs, His Majesty observed that, when a Prince and Princess are once betrothed, it is not an easy matter to break off the alliance. Girdá, not satisfied with this remark, swore that he would abandon the haunts of men, and cease to wheel in the heavens, should he fail to effect their separation. The King said - very well - let me know the result. Girdá now soared aloft on his dusky pinions, and speedily reached China. He here alighted in a garden where the Princess, attended by her foster mother, and an attendant, was gathering flowers. Girdá instantly lifted the three into

(b) The Island is Ceylon - and Girdá is the Indian Garuda, the eagle king, the snake - devourer, the bird of Heri and of Vishnu. Rájáwálí is another kind of eagle famous in Hindu mythology.

(c) His aquilaic Majesty does not let us know his objections to the match. It could scarcely have been on the score of religion, since the Emperors of China were Islamites.

But our Chronicler here perpetrates a grievous anachronism when he makes Garuda speak of King Solomon as if alive - although he only follows in the steps of many native eastern authorities - who use the name of "the wisest of men" as sort of talisman for producing supernatural events, and for reconciling every inconsistency, - a method of settling doubtful points which was vogue in the dark ages of Europe.