all persons.[1938] By succumbing to the influence of wrath, the ten-headed Ravana of great prowess, became the rival of Sakra and was for that reason slain by Rama in battle.  Hearing that the Rishi Rama of Bhrigu’s race had entered the inner apartments of their palace for bringing away the calf of the Homa cow of their sire, the sons of Karttaviryya, yielding to wrath, took such entry as an insult to their royal house, and as the consequence thereof, they met with destruction at the hands of Rama.  Indeed, Karttaviryya of great strength, resembling the Thousand-eyed Indra himself, in consequence of his having yielded to wrath, was slain in battle by Rama of Jamadagni’s race.  Verily, O amiable lady at thy words I have restrained my wrath, that foe of penances that destroyer of all that is beneficial for myself.  I praise my own self greatly since, O large-eyed one, I am fortunate enough to own thee for my wife,—­thee that are possessed of every virtue and that hast inexhaustible merits.  I shall now proceed to that spot where the Brahmana is staying.  I shall certainly address that Brahmana in proper words and he shall certainly go hence, his wishes being accomplished.”

SECTION CCCLXI

“Bhishma said, ’Having said these words unto his dear spouse, the chief of the Nagas proceeded to that place where the Brahmana was sitting in expectation of an interview with him.  As he proceeded, he thought of the Brahman and wandered as to what the business could be that had brought him to the Naga city.  Arrived at his presence, O chief of men, that foremost of Nagas devoted by his nature to righteousness, addressed his guest in sweet words, saying, O Brahmana do not yield to wrath.  I address thee in peace.  Do not be angry.  After whom hast thou come hither?  What is thy object?  Coming to thee, I ask thee in affection, O regenerate one whom dost thou adore in this retired spot on the banks of the Gomati!’

“The Brahmana said, ’Know that my name is Dharmaranya, and that I have come hither for obtaining a sight of the Naga Padmanabha, O foremost of all regenerate persons.  With him I have some business.  I have heard that he is not at home and that, therefore, I am not now near his present quarters.  Like a Chataka waiting in expectation of the clouds, I am waiting for him whom I regard as dear to me.  For dispelling all evil from him and bringing about what is beneficial to him, I am engaged in reciting the Vedas till he comes and am in Yoga and passing my time happily.’

“The Naga said, ’Verily, thy conduct is exceedingly good.  Pious thou art and devoted to the good of all righteous persons.  O highly blessed Brahmana, every praise is due to thee.  Thou beholdest the Naga with eyes of affection.  I am that Naga, O learned Rishi, whom thou seekest.  Do thou command me, as thou wishest, in respect of what is agreeable to thee and what I should do for thee.  Having heard from my spouse that thou art