THE GOLDEN STAG

Thus Maareecha earnestly pleaded for the good of Raavana who, however, was far from pleased or convinced. How could good advice prevail on a victim of lust? Like a sick man rejecting medicine, Raavana refused to listen to Maareecha's counsel.

"If a king" said Raavana, "wants to know whether a thing should or should not be done, it is open to his adviser to examine its advantages and disadvantages, but I have not come to you for such advice. I am king and I have come to tell you that I have decided to do this. I expect and want your help to carry it out. You forget the loyalty due from you and dare tell me that what I contemplate is wrong.

On this matter, I have considered every thing and reached a decision. This insignificant creature whom you extol is unworthy of the honour of a formal challenge to battle from me. What more is he than a man driven out of his own Country, a fool who has allowed himself to be cheated by a woman and has been deprived of his rights? The proper treatment or such a fellow is to disgrace him by carrying off his wife. This is a matter determined and concluded.

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