Ramayana_VOLUME V with index

Ramayana: A Divine Drama – Vol. V
looked at each other as if that was too long a time to be away!
Arrangements were made to give them rest and undisturbed sleep
that night. Milk, fruits and other articles were provided for them
from the palace. “I shall take your Darsan at dawn tomorrow,”
said Janaka while leaving. “It is not proper to delay your rest any
longer, for you had a long and tiresome journey.” Janaka
returned to the palace, with the pundits, priests and scholars.
Rama and Lakshmana talked among themselves about the
devotion and humility of the Emperor, and the Light of peace
and joy that shone on his face. They sat by the side of the master
and partook of the fruits and milk. Then they departed, after
receiving permission, to their apartment for rest.
That night, they slept well. When daylight spread slowly over the
City, the music of pipe and drum rose from their doorstep.
Brahmins recited the Vedic hymns. Rama and Lakshmana rose
and finished their bath and other rituals, and approached
Viswamitra. The sage gave them cups of milk to drink and said,
“Sons! Janaka will be here any time now. Take breakfast and be
ready.” Soon, they as well as the younger pupils of the sage
repaired to the apartments and partook of fruits and milk. They
washed their hands and quietly gathered around their Preceptor,
and reverentially sat near him. (RKRV Part I p.159-160)
Emperor Janaka pays homage to Sage Viswamitra
Meanwhile, it became known that Emperor Janaka was arriving
with the Royal Preceptor, in order to pay homage; for, the
blowing of conches and the play of the traditional nine
instruments heralded the approach of the ruler of the realm.
Janaka entered with the auspicious sandal paste and rice grains in
302