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85.YUDHISHTHIRA'S FOND HOPE
"ARJUNA has not returned, nor has
Satyaki, who was sent after him. Bhima,
my fear grows. I hear the Panchajanya,
but not the twang of Arjuna's bowstring.
Satyaki, that bravest and most loyal of
friends, has not come back with any
tidings. My anxiety is increasing every
moment," said Yudhishthira to Bhima in
great perplexity of mind.
"I have never seen you so agitated,"
replied Bhimasena. "Do, not let your
fortitude grow less. Command me as you
please. Do not let the wheels of your mind
stick in the mud of anxiety."
"Dearest Bhima, I fear your brother has
been slain, and it seems to me Madhava
has now himself taken up arms. I hear the
conch of Madhava but I hear not the
resounding twang of Gandiva. I fear
Dhananjaya, the unrivalled hero, in whom
were centerd all our hopes, has been
killed. My mind is confused. If you would
do as I tell you, go at once to where
Arjuna is. Join him and Satyaki, and do
what needs to be done, and come back.
Satyaki, under orders from me, pierced
the Kaurava ranks and proceeded in the
direction of Arjuna. You go now, and do
likewise and, if you indeed see them alive,
I shall know it by your lion-roar."
"My Lord, do not grieve. I shall go and let
you know they are safe," said Bhima, and
immediately turning to Dhrishtadyumna
said: "Panchala, you know very well that
Drona is seeking, by some means or other,
to seize Dharmaputra alive. Our foremost
duty is to protect the King.
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