On my not going there and staying here, those righteous-souled Maharathas as well as the fastfleeting monkeys, shall preserve their lives through hope (of hearing tidings concerning Sītā). And not having seen Janaka's daughter, I will lead the Vānaprastha mode of life, partaking (of fruits) falling into my hands or mouth, restraining my senses, and staying at the foot of trees.
मय्यगच्छति चेहस्थे धर्मात्मानौ महारथौ। आशया तौ धरिष्येते वानराश्च तरस्विनः॥ हस्तादानो मुखादानो नियतो वृक्षमूलिकः। वानप्रस्थो भविष्यामि अदृष्ट्वा जनकात्मजाम्॥