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302
JAIN RAMAYAN
“Dear Prince ! You are right. This portrait is an answer to your question. Only a few days ago did I see this extraordinary person."
Then, Narad uncovered the portrait; and gave it to Bhamandal. For a few moments, Bhamandal's eyes were riveted to the portrait. Narad carefully watched the emotions appearing in the face of the prince.
"Dear Prince! I have not seen such a beautiful lady anywhere in the three worlds."
"True... You are right! I have not seen such a beautiful maiden anywhere even in the Vidyadhara world,” Bhamandal said with a voice shaken by ardent emotion, staring at the portrait. He kept looking at the picture with amazement and joy. Not for moments but for a long time did he keep staring at the picture with utter bewilderment.
"Dear Prince ! Please accept this portrait as a presentation from me”.
"I feel extremely grateful to you”.
The prince took the portrait; saluted Narad and at once, proceeded towards the palace. Soon after the prince went out of sight Narad laughed hilariously and his laughter echoed in The cottage. He thought; “Sita will have to pay heavily for having dishonoured me. What does she think of me? Now the Vidhyadhar prince will move heaven and earth to secure her”.
The guard after having seen the prince off, returned to Narad. "Seeing Narad's ways he entertained all sorts of doubts and fears. Many questions arose in his mind but, he did not possess the courage or confidence to question Narad about it. With the purpose of planning out his future course of action Narad looked towards the guard meaningfully and said;
"I have to stay here for some more time".
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