Rama and Sita have access to all hearts, and you are omniscient and wise. If, lord, you mean what you say, then redeem your word.’

When they heard Bharata’s words and saw his love, the sage and the whole assembly were transported out of themselves. Bharata’s transcendent glory resembled the ocean and the sage’s wit stood on its brink like a helpless woman,

- anxious to cross it and trying many a device, but unable to find a boat or ship or raft. Who else, then, can glorify Bharata? Can the ocean be contained in a shell from a pond?

The sage’s soul was inwardly charmed with Bharata, and together with the whole assembly he went to Rama. The Lord made obeisance and offered him a seat of honour; and all sat down on receiving the sage’s permission.

Then spoke the great sage in well-considered words appropriate to the place and time and occasion: ‘Listen, Rama, you are omniscient and all-wise, a storehouse of piety, prudence, virtue and wisdom!

You dwell in the hearts of all and know our good and evil intents; suggest now a remedy which will be propitious to the citizens your mothers and Bharata.

Those who are afflicted never speak with forethought, and a gambler is mindful only of his own throw.’ On hearing the sage’s words Raghunatha replied, ‘My lord, the remedy is in your own hands.