With other strangest marvels to impart:-- For, Princess, when he touched the blazing grass He was not burned, and water flows for him At will, or ceases flowing; and this, too, The strangest thing of all, did I behold-- He took some faded leaves and flowers up, And idly handled them; but while his hands Toyed with them, lo! they blossomed forth again With lovelier life than ever, and fresh scent, Straight on their stalks. These marvels have I seen, And fly back now to tell thee, mistress dear!" But when she knew such wonders of the man, More certainly she deemed those acts and gifts Betokened Nala; and so-minded, full Of trust to find her lord in Vahûka, With happier tears and softening voice she said To Keshinî: "Speed yet again, my girl; And, while he wots not, from the kitchen take Meat he hath dressed, and bring it here to me." So went the maid, and, waiting secretly, Broke from the mess a morsel, hot and spiced, And, bearing it with faithful swiftness, gave To Damayanti. She (O Kuru King!)-- That knew so well the dishes dressed by him-- Touched, tasted it, and, laughing--weeping--cried, Beside herself with joy: "Yes, yes; 'tis he! That charioteer is Nala!" then, a-pant, Even while she washed her mouth, she bade the maid Go with the children twain to Vahûka; Who, when he saw his little Indrasen And Indrasena, started up, and ran, And caught, and folded them upon his breast; Holding them there, his darlings, each as fair As children of the gods. Then, quite undone With love and yearning, loudly sobbed the Prince. Until, perceiving Keshinî, who watched, Shamed to be known, he set his children down, And said: "In sooth, good friend, this lovely pair So like mine own are, that at seeing them I am surprised into these foolish tears. Thou comest here too often; men will think Thee light, or me; remember, we are here, Strangers and guests, girl! Go thy ways in peace!" But seeing that great trouble of his soul, Lightly came Keshinî, and pictured all To Damayanti. She, burning to know If truly this were Nala, bade the girl Seek the Queen's presence, saying thus for her:-- "Mother! long watching Vahûka, I deem The charioteer is Nala. One doubt lives-- His altered form. I must myself have speech With Vahûka; thou, therefore, bid him come, Or suffer me to seek him. Be this done Forthwith, good mother!--whether known or not Unto the Maharaja." When she heard, The Queen told Bhima what the Princess prayed, Who gave consent; and having this good leave From father and from mother (O my King!), Command was sent that Vahûka be brought Where the court ladies lodged. So met those twain; And when Prince Nala's gaze fell on his wife,