AT THE TEMPLE

Three little girls were on the temple-stair Waiting for worship at the inner shrine; Their tiny hands betrayed a hidden sign Of weariness, devoid of strength to bear Their wealth of luscious fruit and offerings rare— But still they stood. “What shall the Gods assign To crown your lives?” I asked, “what blessings fine Will cheer with happiness your faces fair?” “A mass of glittering jewels,” said one child, “Bracelet and necklace, shining gold waistband And pearl ear-drop.” “Fine robes of richest lace And gayest foam-spun silk,” another willed. The third, with head bent down and trembling hand, Whispered, “A lovely partner on life’s ways.” P. Seshadri.