and the other in the rear of those princes. The
scene resembled the two currents of the great river Narmada at the point
where it is divided by the Rikshavat mountains standing across it.
Gladdening that great host, the divine Chandramas rose before it in the
firmament, once more inspiring with moisture, by his own force, the
terrestrial herbs and plants whose juice had been sucked up by the Sun.
Then that bull of Yadu's race and the sons of Pandu, entering the (Kuru)
city whose splendour resembled that of the city of Indra itself,
proceeded to their respective mansions like tired lions seeking their
caves.'"

SECTION LIII

"Vaisampayana said, 'The slayer of Madhu, retiring to his bed, slept
happily. Awaking when half a Yama was wanting to usher in the day, he
addressed himself to contemplation. Fixing all his senses, he meditated
on the eternal Brahma. Then a batch of well-trained and sweet-voiced
persons, conversant with hymns and the Puranas, began to utter the
praises of Vasudeva, that lord of all creatures and creator of the
universe. Others, marking time by clapping of hands, began to recite
sweet hymns, and vocalists began to sing. Conch-shells and drums were
blown and beaten by thousands. The delightful sound of Vinas, Panavas,
and bamboo flutes was heard. The spacious mansion of Krishna, in
consequence thereof, seemed to laugh with music. In the palace of king
Yudhishthira also sweet voices were heard, uttering auspicious wishes,
and the sound of songs too and musical instruments. Then he of Dasarha's
race performed his ablutions. Joining his hands, the mighty-armed hero of
unfading glory silently recited his secret mantras, and kindling a fire
poured libations of clarified butter upon it. Giving away a thousand kine
unto a thousand Brahmanas all of whom were fully conversant with the four
Vedas, he caused them to utter benedictions upon him. Touching next
diverse kinds of auspicious articles and beholding himself in a clear
mirror, Krishna addressed Satyaki, saying, "Go, O descendant of Sini, and
repairing to Yudhishthira's abode, ascertain whether that king of great
energy is dressed for visiting Bhishma." At these words of Krishna,
Satyaki, proceeding quickly to the royal son of Pandu, said unto him,
"The foremost of cars, belonging to Vasudeva of great intelligence,
stands ready, O king, for Janardana will go to see Ganga's son. O
righteous king of great splendour, he is waiting for thee. It behoveth