SHAHIAHANPUR-JAMMU 325
Now it might have been about ten o'clock. He discovered
a rectangular open platform surrounding the temple struc-
ture. He selected a cool spot on its right, shaded by trees,
and, going up to it, lay down on the hard ground, with a
portion of his only cloth spread on the floor, the rest of it
completely covering his body. He would always, on such
occasions, assume a curled up posture, his knees drawn up
to the face. He had hardhy rested there for about ten minutes
when he felt somebody uncovering his cloth from off
his legs. He bounded up into a sitting posture and
discovered a young man beside him.
"Maharaj" he asked, "what kind of food do you
usually take? I can supply you with milk and fruits if you
like. The panditji who was erstwhile here has sent me
with some money so that I may present you with whatever
eatables you may desire."
" Ramdas is not particular as to what kind of food he
takes," he replied; " he can eat the usual meal of rice, dal
etc."
" Then, will you be so good as to follow me to the house
in which the panditji lives? He will be so happy to
entertain you."
Ramdas accompanied him and arrived at the panditji's
house. He was welcomed by the pandit and many others
who lodged with him. They were all Kashmiri pandits
employed in the Customs office. They were put up in the
same house, their meals being cooked by a male servant.
They had their families in Srinagar. It being summer, the
heat of Jammu was oppressive and the pandits, unused to
the rigours of the weather, were experiencing great dis-
comfort from the heat. The pandit who invited Ramdas
Janakinath Bakshi by name, was extremely kind and
hospitable. He was duly served with a meal so kindly
provided by Janakinath.
Janakinath took a great liking for Ramdas and urged
him to remain with him for some days. The young friend