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192
JAIN RAMAYAN
“Why so soon ?"
"Oh king! What is the use of staying here? Wise people do not stay in a place for a long time unnecessarily".
Dasarath fell into deep thoughtfulness. At the very thought of a separation from his friend, he felt sad and depressed. He became agitated with worry.
“Dear king! The time is not yet convenient for your returning to Ayodhya but I have no danger to fear at Mithila. Therefore, I seek your permission to return to Mithila", said Janaka making his point clear.
"You are right; but I do not like to be separated from you”.
While they were thus conversing, suddenly King Shubhmati came there.
"I think the two kings are engaged in a discussion. May I know what they are discussing ?”
“The King of Mithila desires to return home" replied Dasarath turning towards Shubhmati.
"Well! The king of Mithila has to return to Mithila sometime or the other. But is there any need for such a hurry? He can go sometime later”.
"It is not wise to leave the throne unoccupied for a long time. Oh king! You too are a master of political wisdom. Am I wrong ?" Janak said explaining the reason for his returning to Mithila.
"You are right but the ministers of Mithila are renowned for their loyalty. When that is so, why should you worry at all ?” Dasarath said.
"But I keep thinking of Mithila and the thought has been agitating me. After all it is my city. It is natural that I should remember it again and again and that its memory should be fresh in my mind. My welfare and progress lie in the welfare and progress of the people of Mithila."
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