Bondage and Freedom

Author(s): Chitrabhanu
Publisher: Divine Knowledge Society

Page 31

at parting from her husband mingled with admiration for his extreme love of mankind, his nobility and generosity. He consoled her tenderly, and they parted with tears in their eyes. . .
Koshalraj proceeded to the court of Kashiraj along with the man. He was taken before the king, who failed to recognise him in his tattered clothes. Bowing low to the king he said, “I am Kosbalraj, for whose head you have offered a reward of a thousand pieces of gold. Cut off my head and give the promised reward to this man. He needs the money badly.”
Kashiraj could hardly believe his ears. “Do you mean,” he asked, “that you wish to give your head, your life, of your own free will, just so that this man can have the reward :" .
“That's exactly why I have come here, bringing the man with me."
The whole court was dumb-founded. Kashiraj could do nothing but stare in utter amazement. The poor man, who had just discovered who his unknown guide was, fell on his knees and sobbed that he did not want the reward at this terrible cost.
Koshalraj spoke in a gentle but clear voice, “I will die sooner or later like the rest of mankind. If by my death I can benefit someone, I do not mind dying a few years earlier.”
22