Page:Queen Moo's talisman; the fall of the Maya empire (IA queenmoostalisma00leplrich).djvu/35

Then during thirteen days we all lament.
When Maya nation mourns some dire event,
On thirteen altars we our offering make;
And thirteen guests at funeral board partake.
That famous Mu may ne'er forgotten be,
To grief belongs thirteen, by Can's decree."

"For many years Mu's day of doom was feared,
When those who into magic mirrors peered
Saw visions grim; their minds were filled with dread.
Not all believed that into Ocean's bed
A land of vast dimensions could be thrust
By Homen's power, yet many felt mistrust.
But one there was more heedful than the rest,
In science versed and with discernment blest;
From Mu he sailed with those who deemed him wise—
Our ancestor was he, thou dost surmise."

The Princess, deeply touched, in silence heard,
With close attention, not to lose a word.

"To Oracle that ancestor gave ear—
Yet he for self had not a thought of fear—
And thus were many saved, of noble race
That otherwise had left on earth no trace,
With him for guide to this kind shore they came,
Renewing here the glory of their name.
Then all agreed that Can should Sovereign be.
He earnestly desired they might be free