golden vessels, ladles, and censers were set in readiness, with barley, rice, water, and other things needful. The sacred fire was kindled in the midst, and Vasishtha performed the prescribed rites and gave the offering to the flame. Then Janaka led Sita forward and committed her to Rama, a faithful wife, to follow him as his shadow. The other princes and princesses were then in like manner joined in wedlock; thrice round the sacred fire went each bridal pair; and heavenly music and showers of blossoms crowned the ceremony.
Anon, Dasaratha and his sons with their brides returned to Ayodhya, where joyous crowds issued forth to meet them. After a time, Bharat and Satrughna were invited to visit for a season King Yudhajit, their uncle, while Rama and Lakshman remained at Ayodhya. Rama now began to share the government with his father, and daily increased in favour with all. As for the fair Sita, and the love they bore each other—
"He loved her for his father's voice
Had given her and approved the choice;
He loved her for each charm she wore,
And her sweet virtues more and more.
So he, her lord and second life,
Dwelt in the bosom of his wife,
In double form, that, e'en apart
Each heart could commune free with heart.
•••••Then shone the son Kausalya bore,
With this bright dame allied,
Like Vishnu whom the gods adore,
With Lakshmi by his side."
