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74 CHILDHOOD beauty, mother of the world; of whose members are born countless Umás and Ramás and Brahmánis, all alike perfect ; by the play of whose eyebrows a world flashes into existence, even Sita, enthroned at Ráma's side. As Manu and Satarupa beheld this vision of Hari in all his beauty, gazing fixedly with open eyes, they adored his incomparable magnificence, nor could be satiated with the sight. Overcome with delight and transported out of themselves, they fell flat on the ground, clasping his feet in their hands. But the gracious lord putting his lotus hand upon their heads quickly rasied them up, Dohá 153. and again said,-" Be assured that you have found favour with me : ask whatever boon you will, the largest gift you can think of." Chaupái. On hearing the lord's words they clasped their hands in prayer, and taking courage thus spoke in timid accents :-"O lord, we have seen your lotus feet, and our every object has been accomplished. Yet one longing remains, and I know not whether to describe it as easy or difficult of attainment. It is easy, my master, fer you to give ; but so far as my meanness is concerned, it is difficult. Like a beggar who has found the wishing-tree, but trembles to ask for too good fortune, not realizing its full power ; so my heart is troubled by doubt. O my god, you read all hearts and know what I wish; grant me my desire." "0 king, fear not, but ask of me ; there is nothing I would not give you." Dohá 154. "O gracious lord, I will declare honestly the crowning boon; for what concealment can there be? I would have a son like you." Chaupái. On seeing his love and hearing his sincere words, said the Compassionate, " So be it." "Where can I go to find your equal ?" "I myself, O king, will be born as your son." Then seeing Satarúpa with her hands still clasped,-"O lady, ask whatever boon you please." "O my lord, the boon my husband has wisely asked is what I too should most desire. But it is great presumption: though in your clemency you have confirmed it. You are the father of all the gods, the lord of the world, the supreme spirit, the omniscient; and therefore my mind doubts; and yet the Lord's words cannot fail. O my god, the bliss that is enjoyed and the future state that is attained by your own servants-
