Ramayana 2.432

The wise Sumantra, thus addressed, Obeyed the high-souled chief's behest. He hurried forth with joy inspired And gave the orders he desired. Delight each soldier's bosom filled, And through each chief and captain thrilled, To hear that march proclaimed, to bring Dear Rama back from wandering. From house to house the tidings flew: Each soldier's wife the order knew, And as she listened blithe and gay Her husband urged to speed away. Captain and soldier soon declared The host equipped and all prepared With chariots matching thought for speed, And wagons drawn by ox and steed. When Bharat by Vasishtha's side, His ready host of warriors eyed, Thus in Sumantra's ear he spoke: "My car and horses quickly yoke." Sumantra hastened to fulfil With ready joy his master's will, And quickly with the chariot sped Drawn by fleet horses nobly bred. Then glorious Bharat, true, devout, Whose genuine valour none could doubt, Gave in fit words his order out; For he would seek the shade Of the great distant wood, and there Win his dear brother with his prayer: "Sumantra, haste! my will declare The host be all arrayed. I to the wood my way will take, To Rama supplication make, And for the world's advantage sake, Will lead him home again." Then, ordered thus, the charioteer Who listened with delighted ear, Went forth and gave his orders clear To captains of the train. He gave the popular chiefs the word, And with the news his friends he stirred, And not a single man deferred Preparing for the road. Then Brahman, Warrior, Merchant, thrall, Obedient to Sumantra's call, Each in his house arose, and all Yoked elephant or camel tall, Or ass or noble steed in stall, And full appointed showed.