THE FRIEND OF THE TREE.

Hawera Star, Volume XLV, 2 May 1925, Page 16

THE FRIEND OF THE TREE.

Near the city of Benares there was once a great 'forest which trembled one noon to the steps of a god. lndra of the Thousand Eyes came walking .•through the earthly groves. Even in Hep veil he had hardly seen fresher leaves or more beautiful cascades of blossom.

'■ hen, in the midst of this luxur.ant Jife, he came on a great tree which was withered and blotched and rotten. Indra approached the dying tree, and was amazed to see a parrot sitting on its houghs looking lean and sickly, “What are you doing there, foolish Bird?” he cried. “Are there not fair and fruitful trees enough ? Why do you sit in the shadows of decay?’’ The parrot bowed till is beak touched its claws, and replied: “Glorious king! Once this tree was peerless in its beauty and strength. 1 was born under its leaves; I learned to fly from one of its branches; here,since- my earliest days, 1 have found shelter and friendship. But the other day a hunter’s poisoned arrow glanced aside into its bark, and its sap has turned to fire, and it js dying. 0 king, how could I leave the tree in its misfortunes?”

Indra was moved. “Lowly bird!” he cried, “I would that men also were as true and compassionate to their friends! I will reward your devotion by T granting you any boon you may ask.” The parrot; did not hesitate. “Restore the tree, great king,” it said, “and I will sing your praises for ever.” Indra laid his hand on the bark. Instantlv the fungus and mildew dropped away/ the rotten leaves fell to the ground; fresh sap darted through its boughs, impetuous as a spring river, and .buds of green and crimson burst out on every twig. Wise is he who chooses a friend like the trees; blessed is he who has a heart, compassionate and grateful, like the parrot’s.