Then that long-armed one spoke to the enhancer of Sumitra's delight, saying, Be you, whether in society or solitude, intent upon protecting Sītā. Of course it behoves us to protect her in lone places. Do you, O son of Sumitrā, go ahead; and let Sītā follow you. I myself will go in your wake, protecting both yourself and Sītā. Surely, O foremost of men, we should now protect each other.
अथाब्रवीन्महाबाहुः सुमित्रानन्दवर्धनम्। भव संरक्षणार्थाय सजने विजनेऽपि वा॥ अवश्यं रक्षणं कार्यं मद्विधैर्विजने वने। अग्रतो गच्छ सौमित्रे सीता त्वामनुगच्छतु॥ पृष्ठतोऽनुगमिष्यामि सीतां त्वां चानुपालयन्। अन्योन्यस्य हि नो रक्षा कर्तव्या पुरुषर्षभ॥