On hearing these tidings the jewel of the Solar race sent for Prince Angad and Vibhishana and said, ‘Go with Hanuman and with due respect escort Janaki here.’

Forthwith they went to the spot where Sita was and found all the demon ladies waiting on her in all humility. Promptly Vibhishana gave them their instructions, and they attended her to the bath with all formality;

they also adorned her with jewels of every description and then brought a charming palanquin duly equipped. Sita joyously mounted it with her thoughts fixed on her loving lord Rama, abode of bliss.

On all four sides (of the palanquin) went guards with staves in their hands, all supremely delighted at heart. The bears and the monkeys all came to catch a glimpse of her, but the guards darted in a fury to keep them back.

But said Raghubira, ‘Attend to what I say, my friend, and bring Sita on foot, that the monkeys may look on her as they would on their own mothers.’ Thus said the holy Lord Rama and smiled.

The bears and the monkeys rejoiced to hear the Lord’s words, while from the heavens the gods rained down a great shower of blossoms. The real Sita had earlier been lodged in the fire, and now the Blessed Lord who witnesses the secrets of all hearts sought to bring her back to light.

For this reason the All-merciful addressed some reproachful words, on hearing which the female demons all began to grieve.