Clung to his vow with firmest will.

And valiant Lakshmaṇ, dear to fame,

His brother by a younger dame,

Bold victor in the deadly fray,

Would follow Ráma on his way.

On sternest vows his heart was set,

And he, a youthful anchoret,

Bound up in twisted coil his hair

And took the garb which hermits wear;

Then with his bow to guard us, he