“Let us go and see how S¶tŒ elects her husband; we have yet to see whom Providence chooses to honour.” Said Lakƒma˜a, “He alone deserves glory, my lord, who enjoys your favour.” The whole company of hermits rejoiced to hear these apt words and with a delighted heart they all gave their blessing to him. Accompanied by the whole throng of hermits the gracious Lord then proceeded to visit the arena intended for the bow-sacrifice. When the inhabitants of the town got the news that the two brothers had reached the arena, they all sallied forth, oblivious of their homes and duties—men and women, young and old and even children. When Janaka saw that a huge crowd had collected there, he sent for all his trusted servants and said, “Go and see all the people at once and marshal them to their proper seats.” (1—4)