Myths of the Hindus & Buddhists

Myths of the Hindus &P Buddhiststhe princes entered in procession with Yudhishthira attheir head.Now began the most marvellous display of skill. Theshower of arrows was so thick and constant that few of thespectators could hold their heads up unflinchingly, yet theaim of the knightly archers was so sure that not a singlearrow missed its mark. Each, engraved with the name ofits owner, was found in that precise spot at which it hadbeen shot. Then they leapt on the backs of spiritedhorses, and vaulting and careering, turning this way andthat, went on shooting at the marks. Then the horseswere abandoned for chariots, and driving in and out,racing, turning, soothing their steeds or urging them on,as occasion might demand, the combatants continued toand their resource.display their agility, their precision,Now leaping from the chariots, and seizing each man hissword and shield, the princes began to fence and exhibitsword-play. Then, like two great mountains and thirstingfor battle, Bhlma and Duryodhana entered the arena, clubsin hand, for single combat.to their own aidBracing themselves up, and summoningtheir utmost energy, the two warriors gave a mighty roar,and began careering in due form, right and left, circlingthe lists, till the moment came for the rush and the mimiconslaught,in which each would strive to defeat hisantagonist by right of his superior skill. And so greatwas the lust of battle in the two princes that the vastassembly caught the infection and became divided in itssympathies, some for Bhlma, some for Duryodhana, tillDrona saw that it was necessary to stop the contest if hewould not have it degenerate into an actual fight.Then the master himself stepped into the lists and,silencing the music for a moment, in a voice like that128