The Book of Akbar 306.5

306.5

Meanwhile the moon was bending the brow of supplication in adoration and thanksgiving, and was gathering light by the hand of Cassiopeia, and the Polestar was anointing the two eyes of the Calves with white antimony from a pencil of golden rays. Astronomical observers, and heaven-conjoined interpreters of the Almagest, who watched the influential constellations with the astrolabe of science, cast the horoscope of world-sway from the pages of celestial tables. Assuredly there was help of glorious grace; and union of the hosts of fortune and dominion. Hemistich. In an hour adored by the heavens. In the Idgah of heart-expanding Kalanar. Hemistich. May it ever be the goal of Fortune. A great feast and great assemblage, such as might move the envy of celestial writers, were organised. Masnavi. A heart-delighting feast was prepared ’Twas decked both without and within In front of that verdant kiosk They spread a carpet wide as a parade-ground, Screens tipped with ornaments Were drawn round the banquet hall. The covering of the ground from end to end Was silk of Tartary and Chinese brocade. From the number of gold-threaded awnings The air was like a screen inlaid with gold. They inclosed the sky in pure gold For a blue veil becometh not a feast.