18
SONGS, LEGENDS, AND BALLADS.
But why falls this sudden silence? why does each one hold his breath?
Every eye turns on the Hindoo, who before was all unheeded,
And in wond'ring expectation all the court grows still as death.
Not alone stood Chunder Ali: by his side Ahmeer was standing,
And his brown hand rested lightly on her shoulder as he smiled
At the sweet young face turned toward him. Then the father's voice commanding
Fiercely bade his daughter to him from the dog whose touch defiled.
But she moved not, and she looked not at her father or the others
As she answered, with her eyes upon the Hindoo's noble face:
"Nay, my father, he defiles not: this kind arm above all others
Is my choosing, and forever by his side shall be my place.
