And this he did, causing the Mallas to stand in groups and so presented them, saying:
“Lord, a Malla of such and such a name, with his wives, his children his retinue and his friends, humbly bows down at the feet of the Blessed One.” And that family with its retinue then advanced, weeping.
And after this manner were all presented during the first watch of the night, and when it was done they retired in heavy grief.
But there was yet one work of mercy left unto the Lord. For at this time a mendicant named Subaddha was dwelling at Kusinara, and he heard the news that the Blessed One was about to pass away and his religious doubts rushed into his mind and he thought:
“Seldom indeed in this world do the authentic Buddhas appear. I have faith in the monk Gotama that he may be able to remove my uncertainty. I will go to him.”
And he went and told his case to Ananda and he replied:
“Enough, friend Subaddha. Do not trouble Him who has thus Attained. The Lord is weary.”
And three times he refused. But the Lord heard and he said:
“Let him come to me. He will ask from a true desire of knowledge and will quickly understand my replies.”
So Ananda said: