And, following me, hast nobly done;

Else, bravest, I should need a band

Around my wife as guard to stand.

On this first night, my thirst to slake,

Some water only will I take:

Thus, brother, thus my will decides,

Though varied store the wood provides.”

Thus having said to Lakshmaṇ, he

Addressed in turn Sumantra: “Be

Most diligent to-night, my friend,