The giver of the maidens' hands.

The giver and the taker both

Must ratify a mutual oath.

Perform the part for which we wait,

And rites of marriage celebrate.”

Skilled in the laws which Scriptures teach,

He answered thus Vaśishṭha's speech:

“O Saint, what warder bars the gate?

Whose bidding can the king await?

In one's own house what doubt is shown?