05.113

Narada said:

When Suparṇa had thus spoken these true and excellent words, the king, having considered attentively and resolved again and again, (5-113-1)

The performer of a thousand sacrifices, the generous lord, the mighty Yayāti, lord of Vatsa and Kāśī, spoke these words: (5-113-2)

Having seen his dear friend Tārkṣya and Gālava, the eminent Brāhmaṇa, and the famed, praiseworthy example of ascetic alms... (5-113-3)

And having passed beyond other kings born in the solar dynasty, these two have come to me, considering my intent... (5-113-4)

Today my birth is fruitful and my family is saved; today, Tārkṣya, my land too is delivered by you, sinless one. (5-113-5)

But I wish to tell you, friend, that I am not as wealthy as you once knew me to be, for indeed, my wealth has diminished, friend. (5-113-6)

O bird, nor am I able to make your coming here in vain, nor am I willing to render this great sage's wish unfulfilled. (5-113-7)

Therefore, I shall give what will accomplish this aim. For truly, one who, after approaching, is turned away in despair, destroys the family. (5-113-8)

O son of Vinatā, nothing is said to be more sinful than this: feeding on hope in this world through such words as “I will give” or “there is not.” (5-113-9)

Indeed, a dejected man who has not fulfilled his purpose—even if honored—is ruined, and he brings harm to his sons and grandsons if he did not give to those who asked. (5-113-10)

Therefore, my daughter, the perpetuator of four lineages, this one—renowned like a daughter of the gods and the upholder of all virtues— (5-113-11)

Gālava, my daughter—the maiden whose beauty is always desired by gods, men, and asuras—may she be accepted. (5-113-12)

For her, kings would surely offer even a kingdom as the bride-price—how much more, then, two hundred dark-eared horses? (5-113-13)

Therefore, may your honor accept this Madhavi, my daughter. Let me have a daughter's son—this is my request, O lord. (5-113-14)

Having accepted that girl, Gālava, together with the bird, set out with the girl, saying, "We will meet again." (5-113-15)

Having said to Galava, 'This place for the horses has been found,' the son of the bird took his leave and went to his own abode. (5-113-16)

When the king of birds had departed, Gālava, together with the maiden, considered what was a feasible gift, and went to the kings seeking the fee. (5-113-17)

He went in thought to Haryashva, the most excellent king of the Ikshvaku line, mighty and possessed of a fourfold army in Ayodhya. (5-113-18)

Endowed with wealth, grain, and military might, loved by his citizens and dear to the twice-born, wishing well for his people, fostering peace, and performing the highest penance. (5-113-19)

Approaching him, the Brāhmaṇa Gālava said to Haryaśva: "O lord of kings, this maiden is my daughter; through her offspring, she will increase the family." (5-113-20)

Haryaśva, may this girl be accepted by you with a bride-price for the sake of marriage. I will state the bride-price to you—listen to it and consider it carefully. (5-113-21)