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148
JAINA STORIES
butter (ghee) even in such arıd regions as Avantidesa where the bovine population was scanty Likewise, the presence of Bastrapusgamitra was capable of creating a plentiful supply of cloth in cities and countries like Mathura and Videha, where there was no much production of cloth These two monks not only kept the order well supplied with these things, but the plenty created by their presence benefitted the common folks as well You should know, father, that Monk Munipati is in no way inferior to either of these, and you should stop troubling him any further"
"The merchant--"But what can I do when I am pretty certain that he has stolen my treasure. All I want is that he gives it back I shall have no more reason to cause him trouble"
The son--"Father ! You need change your suspicion. Your treasure has been removed by me and not by the celebrated monk It is in this house Come with me and I shall show it to you"
At these words, the merchant fell at the monk's feate and the monk, who is usually an embodiment of forgiveness, responded favourably to the merchant's humble prayer and repentance The merchant was even inspired by his holy words so that he renounced the world and courted monk-- hood, wherein the soul is the only treasure to be taken care of
