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CHAPTER SIX
sent to the enemy. That is the custom of statesmen. If the purpose should be accomplished by a messenger, then enough of aggressive action of kings themselves. Let some messenger, capable and powerful, be sent there. For Lankā is known throughout the world as being difficult of entrance and exit. Having gone to Lankā, the messenger will talk to Bibhīşaņa for the surrender of Sitā. For he is the politic one in the Rakşas-family. He will advise Rāvaņa to release Sītā and, scorned by Rāvaņa, he will go to you at once.”
This speech of theirs was approved by Rāma and, having sent Śrībhūti, Sugriva summoned Hanumat. Then Hanumat, like the sun in splendor, bowed to Rāma seated in council, surrounded by Sugrīva, et cetera. Then Sugriva explained to Rāma: "In distress he is our best brother, the well-bred son of Pavanañjaya. There is no one else among all the Vidyadharas equal to him. Instruct him about obtaining news of Sītā, master."
Hanumat said: "There are many Kapis like me. King Sugrīva says this from affection. Gava, Gaväkşa, Gavaya, Sarabha, Gandhamādana, Nīla, Dvivida, Mainda, Jambavat, Argada, Nala, and many other Kapi-chiefs are here, master. Completing their number, I am ready to do your work. Shall I lift up Lankā with Raksasadvipa and bring it here? Or shall I capture Daśakandhara and his relatives and bring them here? Or, after killing Daśagriya and his household right there quickly, shall I bring the queen, daughter of Janaka, uninjured ?"
Rāma said: "Everything is possible for you. Therefore, go to the city Lankā and search for Sītā. Deliver this ring of mine to the queen as a token from me and bring here her crest-jewel as a token. Deliver this message from me: 'Queen, the elder brother of Lakşmaņa, exceedingly grieved at separation from you, remains thinking of you alone. Do not abandon life because of separation from me, beloved wife. Soon, indeed, you will see Rāvana killed by Lakṣmaṇa." Hanumat said, “You remain here,
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