My dear Videhan, thou, and I,

Lakshmaṇ, Sumitrá, feel this tie,

And must my father's word obey,

As duty bids that rules for aye.

Thy preparations now forgo,

And lock within thy breast thy woe,

Nor be my pious wish withstood

To go an exile to the wood.”

Calm and unmoved the prince explained

His duty's claim and purpose high,