The Ramayan

With practised eye the king reviewed The Vanars' countless multitude, And, joying that his hest was done, Thus spake to Raghu's mighty son: "See, all the Vanar hosts who fear My sovereign might are gathered here. Chiefs strong as Indra's self, who speed Wher'er they list, these armies lead. Fierce and terrific to the view As Daityas or the Danav crew, Famed in all lands for souls afire With lofty thoughts, they never tire, O'er hill and vale they wander free, And islets of the distant sea. And these gathered myriads, all Will serve thee, Rama, at thy call. Whate'er thy heart advises, say: Thy mandates will the host obey."

Then answered Rama, as he pressed The Vanar monarch to his breast: "O search for my lost Sita, strive To find her if she still survive: And in thy wondrous wisdom trace Fierce Ravan to his dwelling-place. And when by toil and search we know Where Sita lies and where the foe, With thee, dear friend, will I devise Fit means to end the enterprise. Not mine, not Lakshman's is the power To guide us in the doubtful hour. Thou, sovereign of the Vanars, thou Must be our hope and leader now."