| Raama told the story briefly and then
added: "Princess, my love, I can well imagine your sorrow at having to part from me
and stay here. Janaka's daughter requires not my guidance to her duty. Be thoughtful of
the comfort of the King and the three Queens-your mothers. Do not expect any better
treatment than that given to the other princesses in the
palace. Be respectful to Bharata who will be Ruler and guard against any offence to his
feelings. Your love for me, I trust, will not grow any less during this absence.
I shall return from forest after these
fourteen years. Till then do not neglect customary rites and ceremonies. Mother Kausalya
in her sorrow will need your attentive care. Bharata and Satrughna are dear to me. You
will look upon them as your brothers. Conduct yourself as befits your royal race and your
own nature. Avoid extolling me so as to give possible offence to other good-men. I must go
to the forest today. Keep your mind steady and calm." |
