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King Srenika was surprised to hear this. He sent his Chief Minister Abhaykumara to Bhadra to enquire if she could spare one for the queen. Abhayakumara came to Bhadra and said,
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"Madam! I understand you have bought sixteen blankets. Could you spare at least one piece for the king? He is prepared to pay for it.
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Bhadra - "Sir! I am very sorry, I have already cut each into two pieces and distributed them to my 32 daughters-in-law.
Abhyakumara -"Then get me two such pieces. They will serve my purpose of pacifying the queen".
Bhadra sent a maid to her daughters-in-law. They said that they had put their pieces as towels to clean their feet. This information was given to the Chief Minister.
Having collected the information, the Chief Minister, came back to the palace. Bhadra, too, followed him with suitable gifts for the monarch. She said to the king,
In presenting her gifts to the king, she said,
"Sir! Please take no offence, but Salibhadra and his wives put on divine robes. You know, after his death, my husband has been born in heaven. Everyday, he supplies clothes, ornaments and sweets for the use of his son and daughters. The balnkets were somewhat coarse. So my daughters have used them as towels to clean their feet".
When the king and people at his court heard this account, they were all taken by a great surprise.
As a matter of courtsey, Bhadra invited the king to see her at her own residence. The king was already very curious about Salibhadra and his fabulous wealth and he wanted to see this exceptional man. So at once he welcomed the invitation. Bhadra returned home and started preparations to receive the king at her house. The king came in a magnificent royal style. He was duly received.
