THE RÁMÁYAN OF VÁLMÍKI, VOL. III - Gujarat Knowledge Centre

Cwnto LXXIIL THE R^M^YAlf. 337
And called to Rama from afar
' Hear, chieftain, while my lips explain
The means to win thy spouse again.
Six plans, prince, the wise pursue
To reach the aims we hold in view.'
When evils ripening sorely press
They load the wretch with new distress.
So thou and Lakshman, tried by woe.
Have felt at last a fiercer blow.
And plunged in bitterest grief to-day
Lament thy consort torn away.
There is no course but this ; attend ;
Make, best of friends, that chief thy friend.
Unless his prospering help thou gain
Thy plans and hopes must all be vain.
Q B^ma, hear my words, and seek.
Sugriva, for of him I speak.
His brother Bd,li, Indra's son,
Expelled him when the fight was won.
With four great chieftains, faithful still,
He dwells on Rishyamuka's hill,
Fair mountain, lovely with the flow
Of Pampa's waves that glide below,
Lord of the VAnar^,' just and true.
Strong, very glorious, bright to view,
Unmatched in counsel, firm and meek.
Bound by each wo^d his lips may speak.
Good, splendid, mighty, bold and, brave,
Wise in each plan to guide and save.
His brother, fired by lust of sway.
Drove forth the prince in woods to stray.
1 Peace, war, marching, halting, sowing diaaeusions, and seeking
protection.
' See Book I., Canto XVI.
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