Page:The Mahabharata of Krishna-Dwaipayana Vyasa (1884).djvu/96

62 of Varuna. And Bhrigu had a son whom he dearly loved named Chyavana. And to Chyavana was born a virtuous son called Pramati. And Pramati had a son named Ruru by Ghritachi (the celestial danceuse). And to Ruru also by his wife Pramadvarā, was born a son, whose name was Sunaka. He was, O Saunaka, thy great ancestor exceedingly virtuous in his ways. He was devoted to asceticism, of great reputation, learned in the law, and eminent among those having a knowledge of the Vedas. He was virtuous, truthful, and of well regulated fare."

Saunaka said.—"O son of Suta, I ask thee why the illustrious son of Bhrigu was named Chyavana. Do tell me all."

Sauti replied:—"Bhrigu had a wife whom he dearly loved, named Pulomā. She became quick with child by Bhrigu. And one day while the virtuous and continent Pulomā was in that condition, Bhrigu, great among those that are true to their religion, leaving her at home went out to perform his ablutions. It was then that a Rakshasa called Puloma came to Bhrigu's abode. And entering the Rishi's abode, the Rakshasa saw the wife of Bhrigu, irreproachable in everything. And seeing her he became filled with lust and lost his reason. The beautiful Pulomā entertained the Rakshasa thus arrived, with roots and fruits of the forest. And the Rakshasa burning with desire upon having seen her, became very much delighted and resolved, O good sage, to bear her away who was so blameless in every respect.

My design is accomplished' said the Rakshasa, and so seizing that beautiful matron he carried her away. And, indeed, she of agreeable smiles had been betrothed by her father to the Rakshasa himself, although the former subsequently bestowed her according to due rites on Bhrigu. O thou of the Bhrigu race, this wound rankled deep in the Rakshasa's mind and he thought the present a very good opportunity for carrying the lady away.

"And the Rakshasa saw in the apartment in which the sacrificial fire was kept that element burning brightly. And the Rakshasa then asked the flaming element, 'Tell me, O Agni, whose wife this woman rightfully is. Thou art the mouth of the gods, therefore art thou bound to answer my question. This lady of superior complexion had been first ac-