And thus in angry words he spoke:

“O hero, when the wicked bleed

No sin or shame attends the deed.

The Vánar's blood must needs be spilt,

The penalty of heinous guilt.”

Again Vibhishaṇ made reply:

“Nay, hear me, for he must not die.

Hear the great law the wise declare:

“Thy foeman's envoy thou shalt spare.”

'Tis true he comes an open foe: