been banished for twice seven years, thou be come after him with all thy following to do him harm."
"That be far from me!" cried Bharat sorrowfully. "Lost indeed were I, could I harbour such foul intent in my breast. The guilty demand of my mother, foolishly jealous on my behalf, found no approval from me. I seek my brother's abode only to throw myself at his feet and lead him back to reign; tell us, therefore, where he abides."
So the saint, well pleased, told Bharat of Rama's dwelling on Chitrakuta. He then bade the prince bring up his army, that he might give them goodly entertainment. Every kind of attractive food and drink was produced by the saint's power and prayers, and all feasted to their heart's content, celestial choristers made music, and heavenly nymphs danced before Bharat and his host. So ravished were the greater part by this royal cheer that they spoke of staying in such a heavenly place, neither advancing to the forest nor returning to Ayodhya.
Next morning, however, came the word to advance; all, therefore, saluted the noble hermit, the three queens likewise coming forward to do farewell obeisance. Bharat reddened with anger when talk of his mother arose; but the sage bade him control his wrath, as the banishment of Rama would yet end in the benefit of all.
Approaching Chitrakuta, they discerned, after some survey, the region of Rama's dwelling, by rising smoke. Bharat thereon left the body of the host and went forward, with Sumantra only, to meet his brothers.
