| Also, evils must be
eradicated promptly for a thorn which has been allowed to remain in the body may cause a
festering wound. Powerful enemies should be destroyed and even a weak foe should not be
neglected since a mere spark, if over looked, may cause a forest fire. A strong enemy should be destroyed by means of stratagem and it would be
folly to show mercy to him. O king, guard yourself against the sons of Pandu. They are
very powerful."
Duryodhana told Dhritarashtra of his success in securing adherents: "I have bought
the goodwill of the king's attendants with gifts of wealth and honour. I have won over his
ministers to our cause.
If you will adroitly prevail upon the Panda- vas to go to
Varanavata, the city and the whole kingdom will take our side. They will not have a friend
left here. Once the kingdom has become ours, there will be no power for harm left in them,
and it may even be possible to let them come back." |
