wrath, which is born of desire, O blessed lady, I have none. It has all
been consumed by the fire of thy excellent instructions. I do not behold,
O blessed dame, any darkness that is thicker than wrath. In consequence,
however, of the Naga having excess of wrath, they have become object of
reproach with all persons.[1938] By succumbing to the influence of wrath,
the ten-headed Ravana of great prowess, became the rival of Sakra and was
for that reason slain by Rama in battle. Hearing that the Rishi Rama of
Bhrigu's race had entered the inner apartments of their palace for
bringing away the calf of the Homa cow of their sire, the sons of
Kartavirya, yielding to wrath, took such entry as an insult to their
royal house, and as the consequence thereof, they met with destruction at
the hands of Rama. Indeed, Kartavirya of great strength, resembling the
Thousand-eyed Indra himself, in consequence of his having yielded to
wrath, was slain in battle by Rama of Jamadagni's race. Verily, O amiable
lady at thy words I have restrained my wrath, that foe of penances that
destroyer of all that is beneficial for myself. I praise my own self
greatly since, O large-eyed one, I am fortunate enough to own thee for my
wife,--thee that are possessed of every virtue and that hast
inexhaustible merits. I shall now proceed to that spot where the Brahmana
is staying. I shall certainly address that Brahmana in proper words and
he shall certainly go hence, his wishes being accomplished.'"'"

SECTION CCCLXI

"'Bhishma said, "Having said these words unto his dear spouse, the chief
of the Nagas proceeded to that place where the Brahmana was sitting in
expectation of an interview with him. As he proceeded, he thought of the
Brahman and wondered as to what the business could be that had brought
him to the Naga city. Arrived at his presence, O chief of men, that
foremost of Nagas devoted by his nature to righteousness, addressed his
guest in sweet words, saying, 'O Brahmana do not yield to wrath. I address
thee in peace. Do not be angry. After whom hast thou come hither? What is
thy object? Coming to thee, I ask thee in affection, O regenerate one
whom dost thou adore in this retired spot on the banks of the Gomati!'

"'"The Brahmana said, 'Know that my name is Dharmaranya, and that I have
come hither for obtaining a sight of the Naga Padmanabha, O foremost of
all regenerate persons. With him I have some business. I have heard that
he is not at ho