________________
[ 37 ]
Then, soon appeared a merchant who was known For fairness and for justice and for truth. The driver, in true auctioneering tone, Shouted: "Behold! her beauty and her youth Are waiting to become your very own ! Purchase her, brother Merchant ! she is worth The wealth of twenty Kuberas on earth !"
The merchant bought her for a princely price And led her home. Young Vasumati knew The merchant's heart was inncocent of vice, Since every word he spoke rang scripture-true. "Fear not! I am your father; lay your trust In me who shall protect your life with care; You must not ever doubt me ! Nay! you must Remember I shall treat you like a prayer Offered in grateful thanks to God above Who knows I love you with paternal love."
"I have brought home a gem of purest water" He said to Moola, his devoted wife Childless for years. "I have brought home
a daughter Who will, with meekness, serve you all your life. You must be kind to her; you must look after This lovely maiden with unceasing care; Then life for us shall be as running laughter, Our house shall change into a House of Prayer. She bears nobility in form and feature, She seems of extraordinary birth.
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
