Page:Man in the Panther's Skin.djvu/272

 the Indies and her husband, he gave them love and gifts, as to a son and daughter-in-law; it is impossible to tell even a tenth of what he gave, to each a sceptre, purple and jewelled crowns.

1534. Still he gave to both gifts fitting their fate; a thousand gems born of a Roman hen ; then a thousand pearls like a dove's egg ; a thousand steeds, in size each like a hill.

1535. To P'hridon he gave nine trays full to the brim with pearls, nine steeds richly saddled. The King of the Indians does homage with dignity, wise, not drunkenly ; he gave thanks soberly though he had drunk of the wine.

1536. Why should I lengthen (speech)? The days of one month passed. They sported, they ceased not at all from drinking. To Tariel they presented wondrous jewels of ruby stone. Their radiance like the sun's covers them all.

1537. Tariel was like a rose, and was snowing a light snow shower; he sent Avt'handil to Rosten to ask for leave; he gave him this message: "To be near thee is enough for me as full joy, (but) enemies hold my kingdom, I know they are eating up the land.

1538. "The knowledge and art of the learned destroy the unlearned. I think any hurt to me would bring somewhat of sadness into you too. I go that tarrying here may not bring evil upon me, soon again may I see you happy, may God's will grant it!"

1539. Rostevan said: "O king, why art thou so bashful? Whatever is best for you do it, look into it, examine it.