MAAREECHA told Raavana, "I have listened, my king, to all that you have said
and I am filled with boundless sorrow. It is easy to flatter. Flattery is ever pleasant to
the ears. Those who utter good though unpalatable advice are few; and fewer still are
those who welcome it when given; yet it is my duty to speak to you the harsh truth. Sweet
words might please you now, but will surely lead you to danger and ruin.
"Your informants have not told you the
truth about Raama. Do not be deceived by what you have heard from others about this Raama.
He is neither a renegade nor a criminal, but a dutiful son who is in the forest to honour
his father's word. Far from being a weakling or coward, tie is a mighty warrior, whose
equal in arms does not exist. |
