HYMN LXI. Mitra-Varuna.

1. O VARUNA and Mitra, Surya spreading the beauteous light of you Twain Gods ariseth.

He who beholdetb all existing creatures observetb well the zeal that is in mortals.

2 The holy sage, renowned afar, directeth his hymns to you, O Varuna and Mitra, -

He whose devotions, sapient Gods, ye favour so that ye fill, as 'twere, with power his autumns.

3 From the wide earth, O Varuna and Mitra from the great lofty heaven, ye, Bounteous Givers, -

Have in the fields and houses set your warder -, who visit every spot and watch unceasing.

4 I praise the strength of Varuna and Mitra that strength, by mightiness, keeps both worlds asunder.

Heroless pass the months of the ungodly he who loves sacrifice makes his home enduring.

5 Steers, all infallible are these your people in whom no wondrous thing is seen, no worship.

Guile follows close the men who are untruthful: no secrets may be hidden from your knowledge.

6 I will exalt your sacrifice with homage: as priest, I, Mitra-Varuna, invoke you.

May these new hymns and prayers that I have fashioned delight you to the profit of the singer.

7 This priestly task, Gods! Varuna and Mitra! hath been performed for you at sacrifices.

Convey us safely over every peril. Preserve us evermore, ye Gods, with blessings.