________________
220
JAIN RAMAYAN
"It is not courage but foolhardiness;" a subtle smile appeared on the face of Virdev.
"In that case, we have to reach Rajgrihi as early as possible”. Anjali said a little seriously.
“Why ?”
"If you go to the Chief Minister, you can be of great help to him”.
"O you mad creature ! Already four thousand soldiers who are as valiant as I, have reach Magadha".
"They may be able soldiers but they cannot be equal to you. Indeed your heroism and valour are unique".
"Oh! Where have you seen my valour ?" Virdev felt thrilled to the brims of his being.
"Is it necessary to say it ?" "But where have you seen my valour ?" "In your face.... Where else can it be ?” “It cannot be....” "In your able and adamantine shoulders”. “No, even this cannot be true”.
“In this....” Virdev at once took out his sharp and shining sword and began waving it.
At once, Anjali smiled. She spoke in a cheerful and affectionate manner.
“Virdev, I have greater confidence in you than the confidence you have in your sword.”
It was already past mid-day. They spent many hours travelling thus. Therefore, Virdey looked around for a suitable place
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
