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152
JAINA STORIES
repeat the word Remember that if you do not oblige me, you will have no standing room anywhere on this earth."
But Bankachula remained firm. Said he,
'Madam' I cannot be a party to such an igooble proposal even if I am to court death on account of noncompliance."
The queen burst out in rage She pierced her skin with her own hands, tore her clothes and shouted for help. The sentries came at once to the spot bankachula was caught The king had witnessed the whole scene through a hole 18 the wall He now appeared on the scene He sigoalled the guards not to be too harsh with the man and to present him for trial at the first hour after daybreak.
The king felt very small at the behaviour of the queen. He passed the sight in extreme restlessness In the morning, Le came to the court and Bankachula was presented before him The king asked him to tender his account which he did without hiding anythiog Said the king, -
"Man ! I am pleased with your honesty. It's so easy job to reach the queen's apartment, but you went there. I gladly bastow the queen on you
But, sir, these are impious words. The queen I have addressed as 'moother,
Then giving a turn to the conversation, the kiog said,
"Then, on account of your misbehaviour towards the queen, you will be punished "
“Sir ! I am prepared to submit to any ordeal, but I cannot carry the queen with me”
The king was extremely pleased with Bankachula He declared him to be innocent and gave a capital punishment to the queen, At this Bankachula fell at the king's feet.
"Sir ! I cannot stand the punishment of my mother. Please spare ber”
The kiog spared the queen's life but he divorced her At the request of the king, Badkachula stayed at the palace His wife and sister joined there with him.
