If children play some pranks, their teacher and parents are delighted. Remember he is only a child and your servants and be kind to him; for you are an even-minded, good-tempered, forbearing and illumined sage’.

On hearing Rama’s words Parashurama cooled down a little; but then Lakshmana said something and smiled again. Seeing him smile, Parashurama flushed all over with rage and said, ‘Rama, your brother is utterly wicked!

Though fair in outward hue, he is black at heart; he has deadly poison, and not the mother’s milk on his lips! Perverse by nature, he takes not after you, nor does this vile imp regard me as the very image of Death!’

‘Listen, holy sir,’ said Lakshmana with a smile, ‘anger is the root of sin. Swayed by it, men do unworthy deeds and set themselves against the world.

I am your servant, O king of sages; put away your wrath and show mercy. Anger will not mend the broken bow. Pray sit down – your legs must be aching.

If you are so fond of it, let us devise some means; send for some skilful craftsman and have it mended.’ Janaka was frightened at Lakshmana’s words and said, ‘Pray be quiet! It is not good to transgress the limits of propriety!’

The men and women of the city trembled like aspen leaves; they said to themselves, ‘The younger prince is really very impertinent!’ as Bhrigupati heard the fearless speech of Lakshmana, he was consumed with rage and his strength diminished.