the proper hour in the battle-field (31). Thereupon in the battle-field he ordered the fire and air to destroy the illusion created by Maya (32). Being united with each other and increased the increasing fire of flames and air, at the command of Vishnu, destroyed that illusion (33). By that increasing fire of wild course and the air that mountainous illusion was consumed and destroyed in that great battle (34). The air, assisted by fire, increased like that at the time of the universal dissolution. And the fire assisted by air consumed the army of demons (35). As soon as the wind blew the fire followed it; it appeared as if the fire and air were sporting in the midst of the army of demons (36). When all the Dānavas were consumed and their cars began to fall down, when the fire was successful in accomplishing its work, when the cars desisted from slaying the demons falling down an all sides quickly like the air, when the Daityas grew inactive and the three worlds were freed from bonds, the gods delightedly sent up from all sides shouts of victory (37–39). When the thousand-eyed god achieved victory and the demon Maya met with discomfiture all the quarters became clear and the religious performances began to extend (40). The path of the moon was cleared up, the sun was placed in its course, all the elements were restored to their natural orders and men, fond of good conduct, were at ease (41). The Regent of the dead began to carry on his work without any distinction, oblations were offered to fire, the gods were entitled to partake of their portions in the sacrificial offerings and find out the utility of the celestial region (42). The regents, of the quarters, began to range in their respective provinces, pure persons, intent on carrying on Tapas, began to flourish and there was absence of impious men (43). The partizans of the gods were delighted and those of the Daityas were depressed. Virtue assumed the form of three legs and vice that of one leg (44). The great gate was kept open and ways to morality came into being and all the Ashramas and Varnas of the world began to observe their own duties (45). The wandering kings began to protect their own subjects, and hymns, in praise of the gods, were sung (46). All the sins were removed, dreadful pride was pacified and that battle of the fire and air was brought to a close. People accorded superiority to them because they accomplished the victory (47).