They spoke to him upon the throne

With modest words, in gentle tone:

“Janak, Videha's king, O Sire,

Has sent us hither to inquire

The health of thee his friend most dear,

Of all thy priests and every peer.

Next Kuśik's son consenting, thus

King Janak speaks, dread liege, by us:

“I made a promise and decree

That valour's prize my child should be.