CHAPTER VI. ADVENT OF VISWÁMITRA TO THE ROYAL COURT. The king was thrown into sorrow and suspense at these words of the prince of sages (Vasishtha); but kept his silence for sometime, and waited (that time might work a change). 2. (Meanwhile) the queens of the palace, kept themselves watchful of the movements of Ráma with anxious carefulness. 3. At this very time the famous Viswámitra, the great sage came to visit the king of men at Ayodhyá. 4. The intelligent and wise seer had his sacrificial rites disturbed by the _Rákshasas_, who were deceitfully powerful and giddy with their strength. 5. It was for the security of his sacrifice that the sage waited on the king, because he was unable to accomplish it in peace (by himself). 6. It was also for the purpose of their destruction, that the illustrious Viswámitra, who was the gem of austere devotion had come to the city of Ayodhyá. 7. Desirous of seeing the king, he spoke to the guards at the gate, to report the arrival of Kausika the son of Gádhi to the king with despatch. 8. On hearing these words, the guards were struck with fear in their minds, and ran as they were bid to the palace of the king. 9. Coming to the Royal abode, the door-keepers informed the chief-warder of the arrival of Viswámitra the royal sage. 10. The staff-bearer immediately proceeded to the presence of the king, seated among the princes and chiefs (under him) in the Court house, and gave his report saying:— 11. “Please your majestic, there is waiting at the door a mighty personage of majestic appearance, bright as the morning sun, with his pendant locks of hair (red and ruddy) as sunbeams. 12. “The brilliancy of his person has brightened the place from the top-most flag down to the ground, and made the horses, men and armory shine as with a golden hue.” 13. No sooner had the warder appeared (before the king), and with hurried words announced the arrival of the sage Viswámitra: 14. Then the best of kings as he heard the herald say so, rose at once from his throne of gold with all the ministers and chiefs that surrounded him. 15. He walked immediately on foot with the staff of princes and chiefs by whom he was held in honour and regard, and in company with Vasishtha and Vámadeva. 16. He went to the spot where the great sage was waiting, and saw Viswámitra the chief of sages standing at the gateway. 17. His priestly prowess joined with his military valour, made him appear as the sun descended on earth on some account. 18. He was hoary with old age, rough-skinned by the practice of austerities, and covered down to his shoulders by red-bright braids of hair, resembling the evening clouds over topping a mountain brow. 19. He was mild looking and engaging in his appearance, but at the same time as brilliant as the orb of the sun. He was neither assuming nor repulsive, but possessed of an ineffable gravity and majesty in his person.