Ráma and Lakshmaṇ forced to flee,

I live by naught but seeing thee:

For as the king has past away

Thou art my only help to-day.

Hast thou, perchance, heard evil news

Of Lakshmaṇ, which thy soul subdues,

Or Ráma dwelling with his spouse—

My all is he—neath forest boughs?”

Then slowly gathering sense and strength

The weeping hero rose at length,