RAAMA SLAYS THE MONSTERS

"So be it," said Rama.

The arrival of Viswaamitra and the two princes was a signal for rejoicing at the aashrama ; the rishis offered water and fruits according to custom. Rama 'told Viswaamitra that he might begin the preparations for his yaaga immediately and Viswaamitra took the vows that very night.

Getting up very early the next morning, the princes went to Viswaamitra and asked when the Raakshasas were expected so that they might hold themselves in readiness to receive them.

Viswaamitra was under a vow of silence, and could not answer, but the rishis, his jouniors, told the princes that they should be ceaselessly vigilant for six nights and days to safeguard the sacrifice.

The princes, fully armed, kept vigil for six days and nights. On the morning of the sixth day Rama told Lakshmana: "Brother, now is the time for the enemies to come. Let us be wary."

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