-and lodged him in a beautiful apartment which was comfortable at all times. Then after rendering him worshipful service, he took leave of the sage and returned to the palace.

Having dined with the seers and rested awhile, the Lord (Rama), the jewel of the house of Raghu, sat down by his brother’s side. A quarter of the day still remained before sunset.

Lakshmana had at heart a great longing to go and see Janaka’s city. He was, however, afraid of the Lord and hesitated to ask permission of the sage; so he did not openly express it, but continued to smile to himself.

Rama understood what was passing in his younger brother’s mind and his heart overflowed with affection for his votary. Taking leave of his preceptor to speak, he smilingly said with the utmost humility and modesty,-

“My lord, Lakshmana wishes to see the city but out of fear and respect for you he hesitates to speak out. If I have your permission, I will take him round the city and bring him back very soon.”

To this the chief of sages, Vishvamitra, affectionately replied, “O Rama, how can you do aught but what is right? It is you who guard the bounds of duty, my son, and bring joy to your servants out of love for them.

Go, you pair of brothers, who are the storehouse of all joy, and see the city; bless the eyes of all (the citizens) by showing them your fair faces.”