Read "The Ramayan" by Valmiki online for free on Textopian. Full text with search, annotations, highlights, and AI-powered reading aids.
Then Rama's rising doubt was stilled, And friendly thoughts his bosom filled. Thus, deep in Scripture's lore, he spake: "The suppliant will I ne'er forsake, Nor my protecting aid refuse When one in name of friendship sues. Though faults and folly blot his fame, Pity and help he still may claim."
He ceased: Sugriva bowed his head And pondered for a while, and said: "Past number be his faults or few, What think ye of the Rakshas who, When threatening clouds of danger rise, Deserts his brother's side and flies? Say, Vanars, who may hope to find True friendship in his faithless kind?"