Page:The Ramayana (Manmatha Nath Dutt) Canto 1.djvu/17

 RAMAYANA.

BLAKANDAM

SECTION 1.

HE ascetic Vālmiki asked that best of sages and fore- most of those conversant with words, ever engaged in austeri- ties and Vaidkia studies, Narada, saying,—" Who at present in this world is alike crowned with qualities, and endued with prowess, knowing duty, and grateful, and truthful, and firm in vow,—who is qualified by virtue of his character, and who is ever studious of the welfare of all creatures ? Who is learned, hath studied society, and knoweth the art of pleasing his sub- jects? And who alone is ever lovely to behold? Who hath subdued his heart, and controlled his anger, is endowed with personal grace and devoid of malice; and whom enraged in battle, do even the gods, fear? Great is my curiosity to hear of such a person. Thou canst, O Maharshi, tell me of a man of this description.” Hearing Vālmiki’s words, Nārada cog- nizant of the three worlds, said with alacrity—Do thou listen! Rare as are the qualities mentioned by thee, I will, O sage, having duly considered, describe unto thee a person endued with them. There is one sprung from the line of Ikshiwāki known by the name of Rāma. He is of subdued soul and exceeding prowess; effulgent; endued with patience;