Ramayana_VOLUME V with index

423
Manthara
will desist from even such meanness. The Emperor will not
desist from even such meanness. The Emperor is a crafty
trickster, a clever juggler. When he approaches you, he speaks
soft endearment to satisfy his whims, and then he departs
triumphant! You do not realise the fault in you which is
preventing you from attaining the high status you deserve.
Mother! You may remember, the kings are ever ruled by lust,
and not by love. Your father knew this fact, and so he did not
agree to give you in marriage to this aged suitor. After prolonged
negotiations, and confabulations, through the intercession of the
Sage Garga, when it was decided that you be given in marriage,
the suitor was compelled to agree to many conditions.
This day those arrangements have been cast into flames and your
son has been cheated. All the while, they are quietly playing their
merry drama! Else, why should they take advantage of this
chance of your son being away Why Coronation from any State
beyond the bounds of the empire Consider how their low
mentality reveals itself! How full of mischief and deceit are they!
When neighbouring Rulers are invited, your father will certainly
not miss the opportunity to attend. Naturally he will then bring to
the notice of all the promise made to him. So, the plan is to get
through Coronation without informing anyone; and once that is
over, they know, nothing can be done to undo it. This conspiracy
is hatched by wily with this objective. So, be warned in time.
Once this moment is missed, your fate will be contemptible as
that of a dog. Therefore, do not delay. Ponder deeply; decide
upon the method of preventing the Coronation from taking
place.” Manthara fanned the flames of anger and hatred.