So numerous were the chakavas and cranes and other birds that no words could describe them; one could form an idea of their beauty only after seeing them. The notes of all these beautiful birds were so captivating that they seemed to invite the way-farers as they came.

By the side of the lake hermits had built their quiet thatched retreats; and all around stood the forest trees in all their magnificence. The champa, the maulasiri, the kadamba and tamala, the patala, the jackfruit, the palasa, the mango -

- and many other varieties of trees had put forth new leaves and blossoms, all resonant with swarms of bees. A delightful breeze, cool, gentle and fragrant, ever breathed there.

‘Kuhoo! Kuhoo!’ cooed the cuckoos so melodiously that their notes disturbed the hermits in their contemplation.

Laden with fruit, the trees bowed low to the ground, as generous men bow humbly on getting a large fortune.

When Rama saw this lovely lake, he bathed in it and felt supremely delighted. Seeing the pleasant shade of a stately tree, Raghunatha and his brother sat down beneath it.

There all the gods and sages came once more and, having hymned his praises, returned to their several homes. The gracious Lord sat there in a most blithesome mood and recounted many an absorbing tale to his brother.