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THE ORDEAL OP SITA 149 true that in my heart I have never thought of any other than Rama, then for my wifely virtue take me to Thyself ! If constantly, by thought, word, and deed, I have prayed for his welfare, then for this great virtue do Thou give me refuge ! " And as the weary cry rang out, a wonderful thing happened. The earth opened, and a great jewelled throne rose up, carried on the heads of Nagas, lords of the underworld. On the throne sat the Earth -Goddess, stretching out her arms to take to herself this child of hers, who had cried to her for refuge ; and celestial flowers rained upon both, as the throne re-entered the earth. At the same time voices were heard from the heavens, saying, '< Glory, glory unto Sita ! " And as the Queen and the Earth-Mother passed out of sight of men, the whole universe passed, for one moment, it is said, into a state of holy calm.

One heart, however, did not share this peace. The mind of Rama was torn with grief. And true as Sita had been to him, so true was he ever after unto her. For the performance of those ceremonies in which the help of a queen was necessary, he had a golden image made of his wife, and went through his official actions by its side. So passed all things, until that hour had struck, beyond which no man may delay, and when that came, Rama and his brothers bade farewell