उत्तररामचरितम् (महाकवि भवभूति - संस्कृत मूल एवं हिन्दी व्याख्या)

192 TRANSLATION OF [ I. 10— pregnancy, and dear Rama also has been left only for thy solace, therefore I shall behold thee, long-lived one, with a son on thy lap. Rama—(with a smile of joy and bashfulness) So let it be. Has not the revered Vasishtha sent me some command? Ashtavakra—Please listen. (Verse 11) We are de- tained (here) on account of the sacrifice of our son in law. You are only a youth and new is thy rule, be thou devoted to pleasing thy subjects, the glory arising therefrom is thy highest wealth. Rama—As the revered Vasishtha commands. (Verse 12). Affection, mercy, and happiness, nay even Janaki,—I shall feel no pang in abandoning in order to propitiate the people. Sita—Hence, indeed, is my lord the foremost of Raghu's race. Rama—Ho! Who waits there? Let Ashtâvakra have rest. Ashtavakra—(rising and walking about) Lo! the prince Lakshmana has arrived (so saying, exit) Lakshmana (entering)—Victory, victory to my noble brother! Sir, that painter has, according to our instructions, portrayed your Majesty's career on canvas, let my noble brother look at it. Rama—You know, dear brother, how to divert the queen when despondent. How far is it (my story) represented there? Lakshmana—As far as the purification of the queen by the ordeal of fire. Rama—Peace! (In a conciliatory tone) (Verse 13). What need has she, who was purified by her birth, of other purifications? The water of holy places and fire need no purification from other things. Queen, sprung from sacrificial ground, forgive me! This reproach will last as long as thy life. (Verse 14) The cruel world must be pleased by men whose wealth lies in the reputation of their family hence what all I spoke of you does not befit you. The natural place of a sweet flower is settled to be on the head and not being trampled under the feet. Sita—Let it be, my noble lord, let it be. Come, let us see your exploits (with these words she rises and walks about) Lakshmana—Here is the picture. Sita—(observing it) Who are these standing in a com- pact form above my Lord, who seem to praise him?