138 
THE ORIENTAL ANNUAL. 
saying which is constantly in the mouths of those 
who read the poets. f A devoted stranger is more 
dear than a neglectful relation ; hut an unhind kins- 
man is less esteemed than an utter stranger nor is 
the Hindoo story of 
KING SADRAK AND HIS DEWAN 
unknown to your excellence.” I declared my igno- 
rance and my desire for light, and the talkative youth, 
without farther introduction, commenced his tale, while 
I seated myself on the shady side of an embrasure 
overlooking the Jumna. 
In ancient times there lived a Raja, by name Sa- 
drak, in a magnificent palace overlooking the waters of 
the Brahma-pootra ; he was a person of great wealth, 
and of equal charity, so that none who left their slip- 
pers at his door had cause for regret. In all things 
was this Raja fortunate except in one ; he had an only 
son, who, having thrice conspired against his father’s 
life, was for ever banished his dominions. At the gate 
of this hospitable chief there resided a venerable 
dewan, * who w r as the dispenser of his lord’s welcome 
to all who deserved his hospitality, but it was also his 
duty to see that no rogues or plunderers were admit- 
ted. Now this trusty servant had filled his office during 
three generations of the Raja’s family; and, by reason 
of his extreme age, was becoming daily less able to 
discharge, with due activity and disci eti on, the duties 
* Dewan, a door keeper, an office of trust and of consequence in 
the East. 
