[317] A Bráhman village settlement.
[318] Ten twists or “eddies” of hair called A-vartas—one on forehead, two on breast, one on each flank hollow, &c.
[319] This recalls: “He came even unto them.... The driving is like the driving of Jehu the son of Nimshi; for he driveth furiously.”—2 Kings, ix, 20.
[320] The Indian peacock is sensitive to rain, and goes round “dancing” when it is coming on.
[CHAPTER XXIII
The Homecoming of the King]
Damayantí's Suspicions—Maid Interviews the Charioteer—The Message Repeated—A Husband's Emotion—Wonders Performed by Nala—Wife's Final Test—Children Visit their Father—Interview in the Palace—Nala Reproaches Damayantí—Her Confession and Vindication—Message from the Gods—Husband and Wife Reunited—Nala Returns to Nishadha—The Second Gambling Match—Nala Wins back his Kingdom—Erring Brother Forgiven—King and Queen Once More.
With sorrowful anxiety Damayantí ascended to the roof terrace of the lofty palace to gaze upon the chariot as it entered the middle court. She saw Rituparna stepping down, and Varshneya, who followed him, while Váhuka began to unyoke the foaming steeds.
King Bhima, who knew naught of his daughter's stratagem, received the royal Rajah of Ayodhya with much courtesy, and said: “I bid thee welcome, O king.... Why hast thou come hither?”