Wield maces, swords and lances, stands.

All these are chiefs whom Rávaṇ chose

As mightiest to resist his foes;

And each a countless army[947] leads

With elephants and cars and steeds.”

Then Ráma, while his spirit burned

For battle, words like these returned:

“The eastern gate be Níla's care,

Opponent of Prahasta there.

The southern gate, with troops arrayed