Hindu Polity: A Constitutional History of India in Hindu Times c41.13

c41.13

The king is somewhat surprised and asks: "As you desire the Rāghava prince to become protector, a doubt has arisen in my mind which please remove. O you rulers (Rājānaḥ, 'kings'), although I am ruling this country in accordance with law, yet how is it, you gentlemen want to see my son appointed as king-assistant, with high powers?" The spokesmen with the members of the Paura-Jānapada give their reasons. They say that Rāma was the best of the Ikshvākus on merit; that he was born before Bharata; that he was brave; that he always enquired after the well-being of the Pauras; that he took a leading part in the festivities; that he knew the principles of government, etc.; that the country desired him as its lord; and in fine, that not only the people of the kingdom and the capital, but also the Paura-Jānapada, both their Inner and Outer bodies, admire the Prince. The king is satisfied with the proposal that they desired to have his eldest son in the office of the Yuvarāja. When the king promises that the desire would be carried out, his reply is acclaimed.¹ And then he makes a speech by which he gives directions to carry out the resolution. This being done, "the Pauras who had advised