| Taara advanced
towards Lakshmana. In looks, in knowledge of the world and skill in speech, Taara was
unrivalled She said to Lakshmana: "After enduring for a long time poverty and
persecution, Sugreeva is enjoying the pleasures and the prosperity you have secured for
him. This enjoyment has gone to his head and he has lost his senses. I know his fault, but
you should forgive him. The high6ouled who know the foibles and imperfections of our
common nature should temper their censure with compassion. So be not too harsh in judging of King Sugreeva's surrender to temptations of the
flesh--especially after his long trials and privations. But I can assure you, he has never
lost sight of his debt or his duty to you. He has already issued orders for mobilising the
Vaanara warriors from all quarters. Today or tomorrow they will all be here. Then the
search for Seeta and the war against Raavana will begin. Have no doubts. And now, pray
come in and see the King." |
