ETTAIAH. 
119 
petals. Led by an irresistible impulse, dazzled 
and bewildered, the young adventurer crossed the 
marble courts, and entered a vast circular hall in the 
palace. Twelve pillars of crystal supported the lofty 
roof, wrought in purple and silver to mimic the glories 
of the summer night, the floor was inlaid with chry- 
solyte ; and the curving walls sparkled with innume- 
rable gems : but far outshining all, at the farther end 
of the hall sat Khoob-soorut on a throne of ivory, 
in aspect gentle and innocent as a pearl newly drawn 
from the green waters of Oman. 
“■ Nor her loveliness alone, but the witchery of her 
smile and the honey-sweet accents of her voice, sank 
deep into the heart of the young Bhudroo, who, bewil - 
dered with joy, overwhelmed with astonishment and 
admiration, lay, as if entranced, at the feet of the 
enchantress. 
“ Her choicest spells were exercised to ensnare and 
secure her prey, and body and soul were nearly won, 
when to the offer of her hand in marriage and all 
the untold wealth contained within her palace, she 
annexed the startling condition, that he should aid 
her in bringing back the city of Ettaiah to the 
worship of Kali. The heart of the enamoured youth 
sank within him. Darkly, — yet too sensibly, came 
back upon his soul, the days of anarchy, the woes 
of famine and pestilence, endured by his fellow- 
citizens, while under the wrath of Krishna. How dare 
he risk the renewal of these horrors ! Firmly, though 
