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The fame of this magnanimous gift will last as long as the world endures. My
wish, the people's wish, the Elders' wish, Bharata's wish-they are all that Raama should
be crowned. Do this, my love, my life." Again the King clung to the feet of Kaikeyi.
But she answered: "Have done with this foolery, see that you do not
break your word and drive me to keep mine, and kill myself. It is useless for you to try
to evade."
The King said: "With due rites and in
the presence of Fire, I took your hand and called you wife. Here and now I renounce you,
and with you the son you bore. Night is gone; the dawn is near and the morning will see
not Raama's coronation, but my funeral." Kaikeyi cut him short: "You are
prattling vainly. Send at once for Raama. Let him come here. Tell him the kingdom is
Bharata's and he should go to the forest. Keep your promise. Do not waste time."
Dasaratha groaned: "Very well. Let me
at last set eyes on Raama's face. My death is near. Let Raama come. Let me see his face
before I die. Tied down by dharma this old fool is helpless."
And again he fell unconscious.
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