Baal Kaanda
33 - The story of king Pratapabhanu
Chaupais
Description
Listen, O king: there are various expedients in this world. But they are hard to accomplish and are of doubtful issue besides. Of course, there is one very simple device; but that too involves one difficulty. Its contrivance depends on me; but my going to your city is out of the question. Ever since I was born I have never been to anybody's house or village so far. And if I do not go, it will be a misfortune for you. I am therefore in a dilemma today." Hearing this, the king replied in a polite language, "My lord, there is a maxim laid down in the Vedas: the great show kindness to the small. Mountains always bear tiny blades of grass on their tops, the fathomless ocean carries floating foam on its breast and the earth ever bears dust on its bosom."