Page:The Kural or The Maxims Of Tiruvalluvar.pdf/297



1146. Our meeting was but for one day: but the outcry that hath arisen over it is as when the serpent hath swallowed the moon !

1147. The public talk is the manure, and the reproach of mother is the water, that unite to feed and prolong this anguish.

1148. To think of extinguishing my passion by raising this clamour is like wanting to put out a fire by pouring ghee over it.

1149. Is it for me to blush at this outcry now, when he who said, Fear not, hath abandoned me to the scandal of every by-stander ?

1150. This clamour which I in my heart so much desire, the village rabble hath raised for me : verily my beloved will not refuse it me if I should beg it of him.

Rh