Page:Sacred Books of the Buddhists Vol 1.djvu/233

 feel that this token of thy friendly disposition surpassed his wishes ?

85, 86. 'But would it not have been an unbecoming act of insolence for an attendant to join in the conversation of the two monarchs, of men and of birds, while they were exchanging lovely words of friendship? No, a well-educated person does not act in that way. How, then, could I, knowing this, follow that way? On this account, great prince, I was silent, and if I need thy pardon, I deserve it.'

In reply to these words the king, expressing by his countenance his gladness and admiration, eulogised Sumukha.

87. 'Justly the world takes delight in hearing the fame of thy virtues. Justly the king of swans made thee his friend. Such modesty and accomplished demeanour is displayed by none but those who have subdued their inner self.

88. 'Therefore I sincerely trust that these friendly relations, now commenced between us, will never be broken off. The meeting of pious persons, indeed, produces friendship.

Then the Bodhisattva, understanding that the king was eagerly desirous of their friendship and inclined to show them his affection, addressed him in terms of praise :

89. 'Following the impulse of thy generous nature, thou hast acted towards us as one should act to one's best friend, although our acquaintance has only been made just now.

90. 'Whose heart, then, would not be won, illustrious prince, by such honourable treatment as thou hast shown us ?

91. 'Whatever profit thou expectest from relations with me, O lord, or however important thou mayst deem them, it is a matter of fact that thou hast displayed thy hospitable disposition by practising hospitality, O thou lover of virtues!

92. 'But this is no wonder in a self-subdued prince such as thou, who bearest thy royal duties for the