Discretion has taken leave of the king. Ah, maidens, one does not know the dispensation of divine providence!’ One of her discerning companions gently answered, ‘The glorious are not to be regarded lightly, O queen.

What comparison was there between the sage Agastya, who was born of a jar, and the boundless ocean? Yet the sage drained it dry and won renown throughout the world. The orb of the sun is small to look at; yet the moment it rises, the darkness of the three worlds is dispelled.

A sacred formula, a spell, is very small, although it has under its sway Brahma, Vishnu, Mahesha and all other gods, and a mere goad masters the mightiest and most furious elephant.

Armed with a bow and arrows of flowers, Cupid has subdued to himself the whole universe. Remember this, O good lady, and give up all doubt. Believe me, O queen, Rama will break the bow!’

The queen felt reassured at her companion’s words; gone was her despondency, and her love for Rama grew. Then, casting a glance towards Rama, Videha’s daughter implored with anxious heart this god and that.

Distraught, she inwardly prayed to them: ‘Be gracious to me, O Mahesha and Bhavani! Reward my services and be favourable to me by lightening the weight of the bow.

O Ganesha, the chief of Shiva’s attendants, O bestower of boons, it is for this day that I have done you service! Hear my oft-repeated supplication and reduce the weight of the bow to a mere trifle!’