Section LIX

"Saunaka said, 'O son, you have narrated to me this extensive and great history commencing from the progeny of Bhrigu. O son of Suta, I have been much gratified with you. I ask you again, to recite to me, O son of a Suta, the history composed by Vyasa. The varied and wonderful narrations that were recited amongst those illustrious Sadasyas assembled at the sacrifice, in the intervals of their duties of that long-extending ceremony, and the objects also of those narrations, I desire to hear from you, O son of a Suta! Recite therefore, all those to me fully.'

'Sauti said, 'The Brahmanas, in the intervals of the duties, spoke of many things founded upon the Vedas. But Vyasa recited the wonderful and great history called the Bharata.'

"Saunaka said, 'That sacred history called the Mahabharata, spreading the fame of the Pandavas, which Krishna-Dvaipayana, asked by Janamejaya, caused to be duly recited after the completion of the sacrifice. I desire to hear duly. That history has been born of the ocean-like mind of the great Rishi of soul purified by yoga. You foremost of good men, recite it unto me, for, O son of a Suta, my thirst has not been appeased by all you have said.'

'Sauti said, 'I shall recite to you from the beginning of that great and excellent history called the Mahabharata composed by Vyasa. O Brahmana, listen to it in full, as I recite it. I myself feel a great pleasure in reciting it.'"