Page:The Slave Girl of Agra.djvu/170

 "Little do I know of the kingdoms and races of the West, sire," replied the veteran warrior, "beyond Kabulistan and Zabulistan, and the snows of Hindu Kush where my brave Rajputs have carried your Majesty's banners. Let those wiser than myself speak."

The eyes of the Emperor fell on the learned Abul Fazel, and he spoke humbly.

"The world is wide, sire, as the noble Khan-Khanan hath spoken, and a new world has been discovered by these Western nations. The King of Spain owns vast possessions in the new world, the Portuguese plough the limitless ocean round Europe, Africa and Asia, and the Dutch, too, are brave sailors and expert traders. But the dwellers of the ocean-compassed England are a prouder race; they destroyed the mighty fleet of Spain not many years ago, and they will yet be the first power on sea. Trade enriches nations, and your Majesty has ever encouraged foreign commerce."

"Wisely spoken, my wise friend and counsellor," exclaimed Akbar, "and my Empire shall be open to the trade of all nations, East and West. The messenger from the Far West who brings this epistle is welcome in my domains, and our greetings and friendship shall be sent to our Royal Sister, the White Queen of England."