“Very entertaining,” said Media.
“Even so,” said Babbalanja. “But perhaps we lost time in listening to it; for though we know it, we are none the wiser.”
“Be not a cynic,” said Media. “No pastime is lost time.”
Musing a moment, Babbalanja replied, “My lord, that maxim may be good as it stands; but had you made six words of it, instead of six syllables, you had uttered a better and a deeper.”
CHAPTER LXX.
The Minstrel Leads Off With A Paddle-Song; And A Message Is Received From Abroad
From seaward now came a breeze so blithesome and fresh, that it made us impatient of Babbalanja’s philosophy, and Mohi’s incredible legends. One and all, we called upon the minstrel Yoomy to give us something in unison with the spirited waves wide-foaming around us.
“If my lord will permit, we will give Taji the Paddle-Chant of the warriors of King Bello.”
“By all means,” said Media.
So the three canoes were brought side to side; their sails rolled up; and paddles in hand, our paddlers seated themselves sideways on the gunwales; Yoomy, as leader, occupying the place of the foremast, or Bow-Paddler of the royal barge.
Whereupon the six rows of paddle-blades being uplifted, and every eye on the minstrel, this song was sung, with actions corresponding; the canoes at last shooting through the water, with a violent roll.