As if he were doing Rama a favour, Parashurama said, ‘I am sparing the boy because I know he is your younger brother. So fair without and foul within, he resembles a golden jar full of poison!’

At this Lakshmana laughed again, but Rama gave him a look of reproof so that he was abashed and returned to his guru, putting away all impertinent raillery.

Then joining his two palms together and speaking in most humble, gentle and placid tones, Rama said, ‘I pray you, my lord; wise as you are by nature, pay no heed to the words of a child.

Children are like wasps; good men never find fault with them. Besides, the boy has done you no harm; it is I, lord, who have offended you.

Therefore, your reverence, deal to me as your servant whatever you please, whether it be favour or frown, death or captivity. Tell me quickly the means, O king of sages, by which your anger may be appeased; I shall do accordingly’.

Said the sage, ‘How can my passion be assuaged, O Rama, when your younger brothers is still casting impertinent glances at me! If I have not cut his throat off with my axe, then what have I done in anger?

At the rumour of the fierce doings of my axe queens miscarry; the same axe is still at my service, and yet I see this princeling, my enemy, alive!