SECTION XXIX
(Astika Parva continued)
Sauti continued, "A certain Brahmana with his wife had entered the throat of that ranger of the skies. The former began to burn the bird's chroat like a piece of flaming charcoal. Him Garuda addressed, saying.-'O best of Brahmanas, come out soon from my mouth which I open for thee 1 A Brahmana must never be slain by me, although he may be always engaged in sinful practices. Unto Garuda who had thus addressed him, that Brabmana said, 'O, let this woman of the Nishada caste, who is my wife, also come out with me! And Garuda said. "Taking the woman also of the Nishada caste with thee, come out soon. Save thyself without delay since thou hast not yet been digested by the heat of my stomach."
Sauti continued, -"And then that Brahmana, accompanied by his wife of the Nishada caste, came out, and eulogising Garuda wended whithersoever way he liked. And when that Brahmana had come out with his wife, that lord of birds, fleet as the mind, stretching his wings ascended the skies. He then saw his father, and bailed by him, Garuda of incomparable prowess made proper answers. And the great Rishi (Kasyapa) then asked him.-'O child, is it well with thee? Dost thou get sufficient food every day? Is there food in plenty for thee in the world of men ?
"Garuda replied,-'My mother is ever well. And so is my brother, and so am I. But, father, I do not always obtain plenty of food, for which my peace is incomplete. I am sent by the snakes to fetch the excellent amrita. Indeed, I shall fetch it to-day for emancipating my mother from her bondage. My mother commanded me, saying.--Eat thou the Nishadas.' I have eaten them by thousands, but my hunger is not appeased. Therefore, O worshipful one, point out to me some other food, by eating which, O master, I may be strong enough to bring away amrita by force. Thou shouldst indicate some food wherewith I may appease my hunger and thirst."
"Kasyapa replied,- This lake thou seest is sacred. It hath been heard. of even in the heavens. There is an elephant, with face downwards, who continually draggeth a tortoise his elder brother. I shall speak to you in detail of their hostility in former life. Hearing from me the fact why they are here."
"There was of old a great Rishi of the name of Vibhatvasu. He was exceedingly wrathful. He had a younger brother of the name of Supritika. The latter was averse to keep his wealth joint with his brother's. And
