________________
293
One day, Skandaka heard people discussing about the. arrival of Mahavira at the Chatrapalāsaka caitya outside the city. Thought he,
"How very nice it would be, if I go to him and obtain solutions of these questions from him'. He made his decision firm and returned to his cottage. Having returned, he picked up the triple stick, small cup, garland made from rudrāksa beads, earthen, pot, cushion, cloth for drying vessels, channalaya, hook, ring, wrist-band, umbrella , vanana, sandals and saffron robes, held them in proper manner and set out for reaching the city of Kayangalā.
Just then, śramana Bhagavān Mahāvira said to Gautama.
'Gautama ! To-day, you will meet with your former companion".
Gautama - "Bhante! Who do you mean"?
Mahāvira - "Skandaka Parivrājaka of the Kātyāyana line".
Gautama - "Bhante! When and how will the same Parivrājaka meet me"?
Mahāvira - "At Srāvasti, Pingala, who is a follower of the nirgrantha order, asked him some questions: but he could not give any reply. So equipped with all the external marks and objects of his order, he is coming here. He has covered a good part of the way. He is on the road. Soon he would arrive here. You will meet him today".
Gautama - Bhante! Is he fit to be your disciple"?
Mahāvira - "Yes, he has it, and surely he will be my disciple".
As Mahāvira and Gautama were conversing, Skandaka became visible. Gautama got up and advanced to welcome him. Said he,
