and salvation, of great soul and beholding this whole universe, above,
below, and around, as if it were present before his eyes. He was master of
both the Sankhya and Yoga systems of philosophy, ever desirous of humbling
the celestials and Asuras by fomenting quarrels among them, conversant
with the sciences of war and treaty, proficient in drawing conclusions by
judging of things not within direct ken, as also in the six sciences of
treaty, war, military campaigns, maintenance of posts against the enemy
and stratagems by ambuscades and reserves. He was a thorough master of
every branch of learning, fond of war and music, incapable of being
repulsed by any science or any course of action, and possessed of these
and numberless other accomplishments. The Rishi, having wandered over the
different worlds, came into that Sabha. And the celestial Rishi of
immeasurable splendour, endued with great energy was accompanied, O
monarch, by Parijata and the intelligent Raivata and Saumya and Sumukha.
Possessing the speed of the mind, the Rishi came thither and was filled
with gladness upon beholding the Pandavas. The Brahmana, on arriving there,
paid homage unto Yudhishthira by uttering blessings on him and wishing him
victory. Beholding the learned Rishi arrive, the eldest of the Pandavas,
conversant with all rules of duty, quickly stood up with his younger
brothers. Bending low with humility, the monarch cheerfully saluted the
Rishi, and gave with due ceremonies a befitting seat unto him. The king
also gave him kine and the usual offerings of the Arghya including honey
and the other ingredients. Conversant with every duty the monarch also
worshipped the Rishi with gems and jewels with a whole heart. Receiving
that worship from Yudhishthira in proper form, the Rishi became gratified.
Thus worshipped by the Pandavas and the great Rishis, Narada possessing a
complete mastery over the Vedas, said unto Yudhishthira the following
words bearing upon religion, wealth, pleasures and salvation.

"Narada said--'Is the wealth thou art earning being spent on proper