ment and
prosperity to those that do them. Those rites which the learned go
through in course of their ablutions, and with the aid of waters,
accompanied with bows unto the gods, always contribute to the
gratification of the gods. When worshipped with proper rites, the highly
blessed Pitris, Rishis possessed of wealth of asceticism, and the
household deities, all become gratified. Filled with such ideas, Nahusha,
that great king, when he obtained the sovereignty of the deities,
observed all these rites and duties fraught with great glory. Some time
after the good fortune of Nahusha waned, and as the consequence thereof,
he disregarded all these observances and began to act in defiance of all
restraints in the manner I have already adverted to. The chief of the
deities, in consequence of his abstention from observing the ordinances
about the offers of incense and light, began to decline in energy. His
sacrificial rites and presents were obstructed by Rakshasas. It was at
this time that Nahusha yoked that foremost of Rishis, viz., Agastya, to
his car. Endued with great strength, Nahusha, smiling the while, set that
great Rishi quickly to the task, commanding him to bear the vehicle from
the banks of the Saraswati (to the place he would indicate). At this
time, Bhrigu, endued with great energy, addressed the son of Mitravaruna,
saying, 'Do thou close thy eyes till I enter into the matted locks on thy
head.' Having said this, Bhrigu of unfading glory and mighty energy
entered into the matted locks of Agastya who stood still like a wooden
post for hurling king Nahusha from the throne of Heaven. Soon after
Nahusha saw Agastya approach him for bearing his vehicle. Beholding the
lord of the deities Agastya addressed him, saying, 'Do thou yoke me to
thy vehicle without delay. To what region shall I bear thee? O lord of
the deities, I shall bear thee to the spot which thou mayst be pleased to
direct.' Thus addressed by him, Nahusha caused the ascetic to be yoked to
his vehicle. Bhrigu, who was staying within the matted locks of Agastya,
became highly pleased at this act of Nahusha. He took care not to cast
his eyes upon Nahusha. Fully acquainted with the energy which the
illustrious Nahusha had acquired in consequence of the boon which Brahman
had granted him, Bhrigu conducted himself in this way. Agastya also,
though treated by Nahusha in this way, did not give way to wrath. Then, O
Bharata, king Nahusha urged Agastya on with his