HYMN LXXXVIII. Varuna.

1. PRESENT to Varuna thine hymn, Vasistha, bright, most delightful to the Bounteous Giver,

Who bringeth on to us the Bull, the lofty, the Holy, laden with a thousand treasures.

2 And now, as I am come before his presence, I take the face of Varuna for Agni's.

So might he bring-Lord also of the darkness-the light in heaven that I may see its beauty!

3 When Varuna and I embark together and urge our boat into the midst of ocean,

We, when we ride o'er ridges of the waters, will swing within that swing and there be happy.

4 Varuna placed Vasistha in the vessel, and deftly with his niight made him a Rsi.

When days shone bright the Sage made him a singer, while the heavens broadened and the Dawns were lengthened.

5 What hath become of those our ancient friendships, when without enmity we walked together?

I, Varuna, thou glorious Lord, have entered thy lofty home, thine house with thousand portals.

6 If he, thy true ally, hath sinned against thee, still, Varuna, he is the friend thou lovedst.

Let us not, Living One, as sinners I know thee: give shelter, as a Sage, to him who lauds thee.

7 While we abide in these fixed habitations, and from the lap of Aditi win favour,

May Varuna untie the bond that binds us. Preserve us evermore, ye Gods, with blessings.