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Rajgrihi
disseminating the Jain Dharma. Many are becoming the followers of Jain mendicants deeming it an honour."
"When we held a secret discussion with Shrishen, we could not find anything to say that he was trying to deceive us".
"Then why should he stay here ?" Suryadev asked angrily.
"His only objective is to make Ayodhya come under the domination of the Emperor of Magadha. It was in this connection that he held discussions with us".
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"My Lord! You are right; but his activities and movements are causing suspicion in our minds. We cannot make out what his real intention is but one point is certain. The Chief Minister of Ayodhya Shrishen is not such a fool or such an ignorant person as to walk into bondage and slavery. His influence on Ayodhya is deep and intact. Since the time the event of Dasarath's assassination took place, he has been carrying on the administration ably. The wonder is that so far a new king has not been installed upon the throne of Ayodhya. Even the people have not been demanding it and there has been no lawlessness in the country. All this shows Shrishen's political wisdom and his mastery of political affairs".
On hearing the opinion of Suryadev, for a few moments, the Emperor of Magadha fell into deep thoughtfulness. All sorts of fears and doubts appeared in his mind.
"What is your idea? What should be done now ?" The Emperor said turning towards Maniratna.
"At once, Shrishen should be arrested and put in prison". the commander Sugupta said a little angrily.
"No. No. If we do so, unnecessarily there will be a big commotion in Rajgrihi and the people will entertain all sorts of doubts and fears. Moreover, if we arrest him the reaction may be against our interests."
"Then ?"
"Orders should be given to spies to keep a vigilant eye on Shrishen and his residence. At the same time, we should caution
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