While Ravana was thus amusing himself, the day broke and the lord of Lanka, fearless by nature and further blinded by pride, entered the council-hall.

Though the clouds rain nectar upon it, the reed neither blossoms nor bears fruit; so the heart of a fool learns not wisdom though he may have a hundred Brahmas for his teachers.

Meanwhile Raghunatha awoke at daybreak and, summoning all his ministers, sought their counsel: ‘Make haste and tell me what course should be adopted,’ Jambavan bowed his head at the Lord’s feet and said,

‘Listen, O omniscient Supersoul, dwelling in the heart of every embodied being, sum of all wisdom, might and majesty, piety and goodness! I thus advise you to the best of my ability. Be pleased to send the son of Bali as an ambassador.’

Everyone heartily approved this advice, and the All-merciful turned to Angad and said, ‘O son of Bali, repository of wisdom, strength and virtue, go to Lanka, my friend, in my service.

What need is there for me to give you any lengthy instructions? I know you to be supremely clever. Just frame your speech to the enemy in such a way as to advance my cause and benefit him too.’

Bowing to the Lord’s command and adoring his feet, Angad arose and said, ‘O Rama, Lord God, anyone on whom you shed your favour becomes an ocean of every perfection.