grandsire of the Kurus may think.  Consulting with each other, let us, O lord of earth, speedily set out to attain our end.  What business have we with the sons of Pandu, destitute as they are of wealth, might, and prowess?  They have either disappeared for good or have gone to the abode of Yama.  We will, O king, repair without anxiety to Virata’s city, and plunder his cattle and other wealth of diverse kinds.’”

Vaisampayana continued, “Accepting these words of Karna, the son of Surya, king Duryodhana speedily commanded his brother Duhsasana, born immediately after him and always obedient to his wishes, saying, ’Consulting with the elders, array without delay, our forces.  We will with all the Kauravas go to the appointed place.  Let also the mighty warrior, king Susarman, accompanied by a sufficient force with vehicles and animals, set out with the Trigartas for the dominions of Matsyas.  And let Susarman proceed first, carefully concealing his intention.  Following in their wake, we will set out the day after in close array, for the prosperous dominions of king Matsya.  Let the Trigartas, however, suddenly repair to the city of Virata, and coming upon the cowherds, seize that immense wealth (of kine).  We also marching in two divisions, will seize thousands of excellent kine furnished with auspicious marks.’”

Vaisampayana continued, “Then, O Lord of earth, those warriors, the Trigartas, accompanied by their infantry of terrible prowess, marched towards the south-eastern direction, intending to wage hostilities with Virata from the desire of seizing his kine.  And Susarman set out on the seventh day of the dark fortnight for seizing the kine.  And then, O king, on the eighth day following of the dark fortnight, the Kauravas also accompanied by all their troops, began to seize the kine by thousands.”

SECTION XXXI

Vaisampayana said, “O mighty king, entering into king Virata’s service, and dwelling in disguise in his excellent city, the high-souled Pandavas of immeasurable prowess, completed the promised period of non-discovery.  And after Kichaka had been slain, that slayer of hostile heroes, the mighty king Virata began to rest his hopes on the sons of Kunti.  And it was on the expiry of the thirteenth year of their exile, O Bharata, that Susarman seized Virata’s cattle by thousands.  And when the cattle had been seized, the herdsman of Virata came with great speed to the city, and saw his sovereign, the king of Matsyas, seated on the throne in the midst of wise councillors, and those bulls among men, the sons of Pandu, and surrounded by brave warriors decked with ear-rings and bracelets.  And appearing before that enhancer of his dominion—­King Virata seated in court—­the herdsman bowed down unto him, and addressed him, saying, ’O foremost of kings, defeating and humiliating us in battle along with our friends the Trigartas are seizing thy cattle