SEETA'S JOY

The spies heard Raama's words and agreed to convey them to their master. Then, impelled perhaps by force of habit, they said: "Victory to thee!" The Vaanara army took this to be a fine omen.

The spies went back to Raavana and said: "O King! We were discovered by Vibheeshana and were in fear of death but Raama would not let them kill us and he ordered our release. King! Our enemies are determined. Raama and Lakshmana, Sugreeva the Vaanara king and Vibheeshana, they are all of one mind.

It is difficult for us to prevail against an army led by such warriors. We have seen Raama, son of Dasaratha. He impressed us as being by himself strong enough to destroy our city and army. We have seen the courage of the Vaanaras and their eagerness for battle. It is not expedient to try the fortune of war with them. It seems best to restore Seeta to Raama. Do consider what should be done."

Of course the advice was sincere and well meant, but Raavana could not control his fury. He said: "Even if the whole world turns against me, I shall not yield to fear. Even if all the Devas, Gandharvas and Vaanaras join together to oppose me, I shall not return Seeta. Because you were thrashed by the enemy, you give me this cowardly advice. Faint hearts! Where is the foe who can vanquish me?"

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