The stupefaction was such that it could only be manifested by profound silence, and gaping mouths.
Emboldened by success I seized the wet cloth with which the Tablet was cleaned, and effaced the "E" which I had drawn. Then, in smaller characters, and doing my very best, I wrote the entire Alphabet, from end to end.
This time the Master fell on his face, crying out, "A Miracle" and the children ran away, terrified.
As for me, I expressed my satisfaction by moving backward and forward my big ears.
The Teacher now rose trembling, detached the Tablet (being careful not to obliterate any of the writing), and, after saluting me most humbly, went away. A few moments later I saw my Mahout advancing towards me, and, without mounting, he led me through the great avenues of the park to the Entrance of the Palace.
Here ordinarily was seated my dear Mistress. But now she had left her couch, and, kneeling on a cushion, was examining the Tablet covered with letters which the Schoolmaster had brought her.
Standing around her were visitors, also looking on—several Hindus and an Englishman.
As soon as she saw me she ran to me, clapping her hands.
"Is it true? Is it true?" cried she. "Iravata, did you really do it?" I replied by winking my eyes and flapping my ears.
"Yes!—He says yes!" said my sweet Mistress, who always understood me.