Annals and Antiquities of Rajasthan, or the Central and Western Rajput States of India v3.c42.s2.t1.123

v3.c42.s2.t1.123

Zalim was no favourite with the bards ; and that he had little claim to their consideration may be inferred from the following anecdote. A celebrated rhymer was reciting some laudatory stanzas, which the regent received rather coldly, observing with a sneer that “they told nothing but lies, though he should be happy to listen to their effusions when truth was the foundation.” The poet replied that “he found truth a most unmarketable commodity ; nevertheless, he had some of that at his service ” ; and stipulating for forgiveness if they offended, he gave the protector his picture in a string of improvised stanzas, so full of *vish* (poison), that the lands of the whole fraternity were resumed, and none of the order have ever since been admitted to his presence.