Page:The Works of the Rev. Jonathan Swift, Volume 6.djvu/265

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TO LAPUTA, ETC.
239

which although I could not understand, yet I replied as I had been directed: Flute drin yalerick dwuldom prastrad mirpush, which properly signifies, 'My tongue is in the mouth of my friend;' and by this expression was meant, that I desired leave to bring my interpreter; whereupon the young man, already mentioned, was accordingly introduced; by whose intervention I answered as many questions, as his majesty could put in above an hour. I spoke in the Balnibarbian tongue, and my interpreter delivered my meaning in that of Luggnagg.

The king was much delighted with my company, and ordered his bliffmarklub, or high chamberlain, to appoint a lodging in the court for me and my interpreter; with a daily allowance for my table, and a large purse of gold for my common expenses.

I stayed three months in this country, out of perfect obedience to his majesty; who was pleased highly to favour me, and made me very honourable offers. But I thought it more consistent with prudence and justice, to pass the remainder of my days with my wife and family.

CHAP.