For counsel on a faithful friend.”

They heard his gracious words, and then

Spake reverent to the lord of men:

“O Raghu's son, thou knowest well

All things of heaven and earth and hell.

'Tis but thy friendship bids us speak

The counsel Ráma need not seek.

So duteous, brave, and true art thou,

Heroic, faithful to thy vow.

Deep in the scriptures, trained and tried,