Page:The Mahabharata of Krishna-Dwaipayana Vyasa (1884).djvu/463

Thus ends the hundred and forty-fourth Section in the Jatu-griha of the Adi Parva.

Vaisampayana said, "Then prince Duryodhana along with his brothers began gradually to win over the people to his side by grants of wealth and honors. Meanwhile, some clever councillors instructed by Dhrita-rashtra, one day began to describe (in court) the town of Varanavata as a charming place. And they said, 'The festival of Pashupati (Siva) hath commenced in the town of Varanavata. The concourse of people is great and the procession is the most delightful of all ever witnessed on earth. Decked with every ornament, it charmeth the hearts of all spectators.' Thus did those councillors, instructed by Dhrita-rashtra, speak of Varanavata. And whilst they were so speaking, the Pandavas, O king, entertained the desire of going to that delightful town. And when the king (Dhrita-rashtra) ascertained that the curiosity of the Pandavas had been awakened, the son of Amvikā addressed them, saying, 'These men of mine often speak of Varanavata as the most delightful town in the world. If, therefore, ye children desire to witness that festival, go ye to Varanavata with your followers and friends and enjoy yourselves there like the celestials. And give ye away pearls and gems unto the Brahmanas and the musicians (that may be assembled there). And sporting there for sometimes as ye please like the resplendent celestials and enjoying as much happiness as ye like, return ye to Hastinapore again!'"

Vaisampayana continued, "Yudhish-thira, fully understanding the motives of Dhrita-rashtra and considering that he himself was weak and friendless, replies unto the king, saying, 'So be it.' Then addressing Bhisma the son of Shantanu, the wise Vidura, Drona, Valhika, the Kaurava Soma-datta, Kripa, Aswathama, Bhuri-srava, and the other reverend counsillors, and Brahmanas and ascetics, and the priests, and the citizens, and the illustrious Gandhari, Yudhish-thira