A Number

1. I heard thus. At one time many bhikkhus lived in a stretch of forest in the country of Kosala.

2. Those bhikkhus, having spent the rains and at the end of the three months went on a tour.

3. Then a deity living in that stretch of forest not seeing those bhikkhus lamenting about their absence said this stanza:

"Today I am discontented seeing these empty seats.
They looked attractive and learned,
Where have the disciples of Gotama gone?

4. Hearing this another deity said this stanza:

"Some went to Magadha, some to Kosala,
Some to the country of the Vajjis
They wander like wild animals.
Bhikkhus, live a ascetic life."