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In the Palace of Ayodhya
183
Will Ram pardon me ? Ram is the very embodiment of all virtues. His affection and kindness are boundless. He is gentle and forgiving. I will beg for his forgiveness.”
Bharath was silently listening to Kaikayi. He said nothing. He thought it was unnecessary to say anything. He did not attach much importance to this matter.
After having been silent for a while, Kaikayi, said changing the topic of the conversation;
“At what time will they arrive tomorrow ?” “They will be here in the morning.” “Where will the fabled Pushpak land?
"The Pushpak will land outside the Eastern gate of the city. Arrangements have been made for the landing of the Pushpak there."
Just at that point, the Chief Minister came to meet Bharath. He saluted Kaikayi and Bharath; and sat in a seat of state.
"Dear Emperor ! The people in the city of Ayodhya and in the other places around are in a state of great joy and jubilation. They are all looking eagerly and joyfully for the arrival of Shri Ram and others. It is as if floods of joy are flowing over the whole area. I have come from the Eastern gate of the city. The people of the city are expressing their joy and jubilation in various ways. They are making extraordinary arrangements receive them."
The Chief Minister looked tired and worn. His face was covered with the drops of perspiration. Pausing a little, he said;
“Tomorrow will become a red-letter day in the history of Ayodhya. It will have to be written in gold letters. But my dear King! Somehow, I am feeling unhappy. The absence of one great man at this time of joy and jubilation is causing me grief. Our joy would have known no bounds if king Dasarath were with us."
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