66697602-The-Ramayana-R-K-Narayan

young and old alike, for we are lost in the splendour of
Rama’s personality. It is that anticipation that makes us
applaud your proposal so unreservedly. It is not that we do
not wish for the continuance of Your Majesty.”
Dasaratha said, “I agree with you. I just wanted to know
without a trace of doubt that you approve of my desire to
make Rama your King. I desire that tomorrow when the
Pushya star is in combination with the moon, and the time is
auspicious, Rama be crowned.”
He summoned his minister and the priest. “Let everything,
every little detail be ready for the ceremony of coronation
tomorrow. Let there be widespread decorations and have all
items ready at the coronation hall. Let the streets be
washed, cleaned, and decorated. Let people feast and play
and enjoy themselves unlimitedly. Let there be arrangements
to serve a feast continuously in every corner of this capital…
.”
He sent for Rama. He watched his arrival from his
balcony, received him warmly, took him aside, and said,
“Tomorrow, you will be crowned as my successor. I need
rest from work.”
Rama accepted the proposal with a natural ease.
Dasaratha continued. “You know everything, but still I feel it a
duty to say a few words. You will have to pursue a policy of
absolute justice under all circumstances. Humility and soft
speech—there could be really no limit to these virtues. There