Ramayana 2.303

When thus the guests their road had learned, Back to his cot the hermit turned, And Rama, Lakshman, Sita paid Their reverent thanks for courteous aid. Thus Rama spake to Lakshman, when The saint had left the lords of men: "Great store of bliss in sooth is ours On whom his love the hermit showers." As each to other wisely talked, The lion lords together walked On to Kalindi's woody shore; And gentle Sita went before. They reached that flood, whose waters flee With rapid current to the sea; Their minds a while to thought they gave And counselled how to cross the wave. At length, with logs together laid, A mighty raft the brothers made. Then dry bamboos across were tied, And grass was spread from side to side. And the great hero Lakshman brought Cane and Rose-Apple boughs and wrought, Trimming the branches smooth and neat, For Sita's use a pleasant seat. And Rama placed thereon his dame Touched with a momentary shame, Resembling in her glorious mien All-thought-surpassing Fortune's Queen. Then Rama hastened to dispose, Each in its place, the skins and bows, And by the fair Videhan laid The coats, the ornaments, and spade. When Sita thus was set on board, And all their gear was duly stored, The heroes each with vigorous hand, Pushed off the raft and left the land. When half its way the raft had made, Thus Sita to Kalindi prayed: "Goddess, whose flood I traverse now, Grant that my lord may keep his vow. For thee shall bleed a thousand kine, A hundred jars shall pour their wine, When Rama sees that town again Where old Ikshvaku's children reign."