That, for your honor, daily you teach these youths with care, and make them to obey you.”

[279]

Him thus Wâ-te answered: “To that give not a thought;

Keep a brave heart, I beg you, that here at home, in nought

You fail of being steadfast, where’er your honor reaches:

Watch well, too, o’er our holdings: these youths shall learn from me what wisdom teaches.”

[280]

The good and trusty Fru-te the wealth of the king did guard,—

The gold and costly jewels, and of many things a hoard.

The king was free in spending whatsoe’er was wanted;