He launched the weapon on the foe.

Seven times the fatal cord he drew,

And forth seven rapid arrows flew,

Shafts winged with gold that left the wind

And e'en Suparṇa's[406] self behind.

Full on the giant's breast they smote,

And purpled like the peacock's throat,

Passed through his mighty bulk and came

To earth again like flakes of flame.

The fiend the Maithil dame unclasped;