King Samarjeet called the maids who had visited Chandramani’s house to meet Manimala. He said to the maids, “You had met Manimala and reported to me that she was not suitable for me. But I saw her today. She is very beautiful. Why did you lie to me?’’ The maids replied, “Your Majesty! It is true that Manimala is very beautiful. But we felt that her beauty could have become an obstacle. She could have dominated you and not let you run the affairs of the state smoothly. This is the reason we lied to you.” At the moment, the King’s courtier, Krishnanand, happened to come there. He paid respects to the King and said with both palms joined in reverence, “Your Majesty! As your loyal servant, I have a request to make. I heard what the maids said. But there is a way. I am ready to offer Manimala to you.”
Krishnanand’s Offer
