Addressed him to the giant band:

“Ráma and Lakshmaṇ we, who spring

From Daśaratha, mighty king;

We dwell a while with Sítá here

In Daṇḍak forest wild and drear.

On woodland roots and fruit we feed,

And lives of strictest rule we lead.

Say why would ye our lives oppress

Who sojourn in the wilderness.

Sent hither by the hermits' prayer