Page:Wonder Tales from Tibet.djvu/33

Rh sped on like the wind over hills and valleys, on and on until at length, quite out of breath and spent, he came to a tall shining mountain. In the heart of this mountain was a cave wherein dwelt a hermit, a wise and good man, whose name was Nagarguna. To this refuge the Prince now sped, and the hawks were almost upon him when he flew against the rough wooden door of the cave and beat his wings wildly upon it. Nagarguna opened it, the dove flew in and fell exhausted upon the floor.

"What is the matter, little creature?" said the hermit, picking up the white bird and holding him gently in his hands.

"I am pursued!" gasped the Prince, "my life is in great danger. I pray you, good master, hear me, and do what I bid you, that my life may be saved!" He paused to take a breath, and in that moment there came a knocking at the door of the cave which had swung to after the Prince had entered.

"Even now," continued the Prince,