As Manu and Shatarupa beheld this vision of Hari’s form, the ocean of beauty, they gazed fixedly upon it with wide-open, unblinking eyes. Reverently they looked on his incomparable beauty and would not be satiated with the sight.

Overcome with delight, they lost all consciousness of their bodies and fell prostrate, clasping his feet with their hands. The gracious Lord touched their heads with his own lotus hands and at once raised them up.

The compassionate Lord then said, Be assured that I am very pleased. Ask whatever boon you will, believing me to be a bounteous giver.”

On hearing the words of the Lord, Manu folded his hands and taking courage spoke in soft accents, “Lord, now that we have seen your lotus feet, all our desires have been fulfilled.

Yet one longing remains, and I know not whether to describe it as easy or difficult of attainment. It is easy for you to grant, my master, but difficult for me to attain in my lowly estate.

Just as a beggar who has found the tree of Paradise hesitates to ask for abundant wealth, little realizing its power, even so my heart is troubled by doubt.

Being the witness of all hearts, you know what I wish; therefore, O my master, grant my desire.” “O king, ask of me unreservedly,” said the Lord, “for there is nothing I would not give you.”