*SKANDHA X. CHAP. 22.*
In the first month of the DEWY SEASON (Agrahayana), the girls of
Vrindavana worshipped Katyayani (a name of the Goddess Durga, wife of
Siva). The observances lasted for a month. The girls prayed to Katyayani
that they might get Krishna for their husband. They bathed early in the
morning every day in the river Yamuna. One day they left their clothes
on the bank and went down into the river to bathe. Krishna took away
their clothes. He asked the girls to come up and take them. They did so
and the clothes were returned. Krishna then addressing the Gopis said:
"O virtuous girls, I know your resolve. It is to worship me. I also
approve of it and you must succeed. The desires of those that are
absorbed in me do not bear Karmic fruits. For fried or burnt paddy does
not germinate. Go back to Vraja. Your object in worshipping Katyayani is
gained. These nights (_i.e._ on nights to come. _Sridhara_) you shall
enjoy with me."