________________
204
JAIN RAMAYAN
"And Virdev will go to Magadha in disguise; he will meet Shrishen and will carry out the important task of conveying to us all the essential information.”
“Then, will Virdev go to Magadha alone or are you sending anyone with him ?”
"Can we send anyone with him ?"
"What is the use of sending all sorts of persons with him ? That will not serve our purpose. We should send with him such a person as would be of help to him at times of calamity because as soon as he enters Magadha, he will have to cope with the people of Magadha who are extremely capable, intelligent and patriotic. It is likely that he will have to face serious encounters with them. If the occasion needs it, he will have to use even political scheming. In such a case, it is better to send two instead of one".
"Dear Queen! Your suggestion also deserves a deep consideration. Yet before we take any decision regarding this matter, it is better to consult Virdev about it.”
“When do you intend to set off on your campaign against Magadha ?”
“We shall plan it out after Virdey returns.”
It was past mid-day. They had not yet had their food. Kaikayi accompanied Dasarath to the dining-chamber.
Virdev who went to the guest house, took a bath; worshipped the Lord; and then began waiting for Dasarath's message. Before that he had seen Dasarath at the time of his coronation as King. He had been fascinated by Dasarath's winsome looks. Now and then while at the ashram he used to hear about the lofty virtues and miraculous achievements of Dasarath; and he was thrilled to hear those things. Often, he had dreamt of rendering service to him to show him his valour and loyalty. Hence, that day, he had the opportunity of meeting such a great man; so he was thrilled to the brims of his being.
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
