MADHUMALA
85
reached his kingdom, with all his attendants. But his son, though on the peacock's back, was late by a few days. He had had to delay some time on the way to visit his other wives, and arrange to take them along with him. At length he reached his father's dominions in safety, and entered the palace amidst joyous acclamations, grand illuminations, and fireworks, the family guru,[1] the priest, and all those women fortunate enough to have their husbands living,[2] chanting hymns of thanksgiving and praise.