In some
natures it bears sickness, in some sorrow, and other fruits. To keep
the passions in subjection will is needed, and also power. The power
must be natural, the will must be educated. Nature also is influenced
by education; therefore education is the root of self-control. I speak
not of such education as the schoolmaster can give. The most effectual
teacher of the heart is suffering.
Nagendra had never had this education. The Creator sent him into the
world the possessor of every kind of happiness. Beauty of form,
unlimited wealth, physical health, great learning, an amiable
disposition, a devoted wife--all these seldom fall to the lot of one
person; all had been bestowed on Nagendra. Most important of all,
Nagendra was of a happy disposition: he was truthful and candid, yet
agreeable: benevolent, yet just; generous, yet prudent; loving, yet
firm in his duty. During the lifetime of his parents he was devoted to
them. Attached to his wife, kind to his friends, considerate to his
servants, a protector of his dependants, and peaceable towards his
enemies, wise in counsel, trustworthy in act, gentle in conversation,
ready at a jest. The natural reward of such a nature was unalloyed
happiness.
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