Ayodhya Kaanda
89 - The Nisada's suspicion and precautions
Chaupais
Description
"I shall test his love on the touchstone of his friendly disposition; for hatred and love cannot be disguised even if one tries to do so." So saying he began to collect articles for making a present and sent for bulbs, roots and fruits as well as birds and deer. Men of the porter class also brought loads of fat and ripe fish of the Pathina* species. Thus equipping himself with presents he proceeded to meet Bharata and met with auspicious and happy omens. As soon as he saw the chief of sages, Vasistha, he mentioned his own name and prostrated himself before the sage from a distance. The sage, who knew him to be a friend of Sri Rama, bestowed his blessing on him and told Bharata in detail about him. Hearing that he was a friend of Sri Rama, Bharata alighted from his chariot and, leaving it behind, advanced towards him with a heart overflowing with love. Guha, on his part mentioned his village, caste and name and greeted him by placing his head on the ground.