Section CLXXV

[Sanjaya continues his narration started at section CLXVI]

"Bhishma said,

'Then, O chief of the Bharatas, approaching my mother, that daughter of the Dasa clan, and saluting that parent of heroes, I said these words,—Having vanquished all the kings, these daughters of the ruler of Kasi, having beauty alone for their dowry, have been abducted by me for the sake of Vicitravirya!—Then, O king, Satyavati with eyes bathed in tears, smelt my head, and joyously said, 'By good luck it is, O child, that you have triumphed!' When next, with Satyavati’s acquiescence, the nuptials approached, the eldest daughter of the ruler of Kasi said these words in great bashfulness,—O Bhishma, you are conversant with morality, and art well-versed in all our scriptures! Hearing my words, it behoves you to do towards me that which is consistent with morality.

The ruler of the Salvas was before this mentally chosen by me as my lord. By him also, without my father’s knowledge, I was privately solicited. How wouldst you, O Bhishma, born especially as you are in Kuru’s race, transgress the laws of morality and cause one that longs for another to live in your abode? Knowing this, O bull of Bharata’s race, and deliberating in your mind, it behoves you, O mighty-armed one, to accomplish what is proper. O monarch, it is clear that the ruler of the Salvas waites (for me). It behoves you, therefore, O best of the Kurus' to permit me to depart. O mighty-armed one, be merciful to me, O foremost of righteous persons! You, O hero, art devoted to truth, it is well-known all over the earth!'"