And saluting the illustrious Krishna-Dwaipayana,
those chastisers of enemies, with their mother, stood before him with
joined hands.'
"Vyasa then said, 'Ye bulls of Bharata's race, I knew beforehand of this
affliction of yours consisting in your deceitful exile by the son of
Dhritarashtra. Knowing this, I have come to you, desirous of doing you
some great good. Do not grieve for what hath befallen you. Know that all
this is for your happiness. Undoubtedly, the sons of Dhritarashtra and you
are all equal in my eye. But men are always partial to those who are in
misfortune or of tender years. It is therefore, that my affection for you
is greater now. And in consequence of that affection, I desire to do you
good. Listen to me! Not far off before you is a delightful town where no
danger can overtake you. Live ye there in disguise, waiting for my
return.'
"Vaisampayana continued, 'Vyasa, the son of Satyavati, thus comforting the
Pandavas, led them into the town of Ekachakra. And the master also
comforted Kunti, saying, 'Live, O daughter! This son of thine,
Yudhishthira, ever devoted to truth, this illustrious bull among men,
having by his justice conquered the whole world, will rule over all the
other monarchs of the earth. There is little doubt that, having by means
of Bhima's and Arjuna's prowess conquered the whole earth with her belt of
seas, he will enjoy the sovereignty thereof. Thy sons as well as those of
Madri--mighty car-warriors all--will cheerfully sport as pleaseth them in
their dominions.
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