THE STORY OF SHIBI RANA 269
balances against an equal weight of the King's flesh."
^< It shall be done," said Shibi Rana motioning for the scales.
- Stay 1 " said the eagle. ** The flesh must be cut from the right side of the body only."
- ' That is easily granted," said the King with a smile.
'^ And your wife and son must be present at the sacrifice I "
"Bring the Queen and my son into our presence," said the King to an officer.
So the witnesses took their places, the balances were brought, and the dove was placed on one side, while the executioner prepared to carry out the horrible order. As he proceeded, however, it was found, to the dismay of the whole court, that with each addition of the King's flesh the dove grew heavier, and the weights of the two could not be made equal.
Then at last, from the left eye of Shibi Rana there fell a single tear.
" Stop I " thundered the eagle, ** I want no unwilling sacrifice. Your tears destroy the value of your gift."
- Nay, my friend," said the King gently, turning on the eagle a face radiant with joy — "nay, ray
friend, you are mistaken ; it is only that the left side weeps, because, on behalf of the weak and
