But remembering that the one-eyed, the lame and the hump-backed are ever vicious and vile, more especially if they be women to boot, and slaves, Bharat’s mother smiled and added:
“I have only given you kind advice and am not the least bit angry. If what you say is true, it is the best and happiest of days. It has ever been the custom in the solar race that the eldest-born should be the lord, and the younger brothers his servants. If Râma is really to be crowned to-morrow, ask of me, girl, what you will and I will give it you. There is no difference between Kausalyâ and the other royal mothers. Râma is equally fond of all: in fact he has a special affection for me, as I have often tested. If I am born again, God in His goodness grant that Râma and Sitâ be again my son and daughter! Râma is dearer to me than life; why then should you be troubled at his being crowned king?
“I have only given you kind advice and am not the least bit angry. If what you say is true, it is the best and happiest of days. It has ever been the custom in the solar race that the eldest-born should be the lord, and the younger brothers his servants. If Râma is really to be crowned to-morrow, ask of me, girl, what you will and I will give it you. There is no difference between Kausalyâ and the other royal mothers. Râma is equally fond of all: in fact he has a special affection for me, as I have often tested. If I am born again, God in His goodness grant that Râma and Sitâ be again my son and daughter! Râma is dearer to me than life; why then should you be troubled at his being crowned king?