Suddenly His Majesty became aware that the Dainagon also had
fallen asleep from weariness, and that the recluse was no longer
playing, but was speaking in a still voice like a deeply flowing
stream. The Emperor had observed no change from music to speech,
nor could he recall when the music had ceased, so that it
altogether resembled a dream.
"When I first came here - "the Venerable one continued-" it was
not my intention to stay long in the forest. As each day dawned,
I said; `In seven days I go.' And again - 'In seven.' Yet have I
not gone. The days glided by and here have I attained to look on
the beginnings of peace. Then wherefore should I go? - for all
life is within the soul. Shall the fish weary of his pool? And I,
who through my blind eyes feel the moon illuming my forest by
night and the sun by day, abide in peace, so that even the wild
beasts press round to hear my music. I have come by a path
overblown by autumn leaves. But I have come."
Then said the Divine Emperor as if unconsciously;
"Would that I also might come! But the august duties cannot
easily be laid aside.
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