________________
The March For A War
237
mati also read the letter with concentration. At once, Dasarath planned in his mind the future course of action.
Vikramaraj, the Chief Commander of emperor Harivahan had already reached that place with ten thousand able soldiers. Somaprabha, the Chief Minister of Mithila also had reached Kautukmangal with five thousand valiant soldiers. King Shubhmati had kept ready for any emergency one thousand soldiers on elephants, ten thousand cavalry, five thousand chariots and ten thousand soldiers on foot.
King Dasarath had sent a spy to Ayodhya and ordered the despatch of ten thousand soldiers.
Before setting off on the campaign, King Dasarath invited commander Vikramaraj, Chief Minister Somaprabha and King Shubhmati to a discussion and explained to them the whole plan.
“Dear Vikramaraj! You have to begin fighting at the south gate of Rajgrihi.”
“As commanded by your highness !"
"In connection with it, you will be receiving from time to - time code-instructions from our commander Virdev."
“The instructions will be effectively carried out, my lord !"
"Dear Somaprabha ! You must destroy the western gate of the city and enter it".
"The king's commands will be carried out! But the desire of King Janak of Mithila was that I should always remain with you like your shadow”, Somaprabha said in a humble voice, bowing his head.
“If there is any need we will send for you." "So be it”.
“King Shubhmati! You must assume command over the soldiers on elephants and invade the main gate of the city.
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
