HYMN XXI. Agni.

1. WITH offerings of our own we choose thee, Agni, as Invoking Priest,

For sacrifice with trimmed grass,-at your glad carouse-piercing and brightly shining. Thou art waxing great.

2 The wealthy ones adorn thee, they who bring us horses as their gift:

The sprinkling ladle, Agni,-at your glad carouse -and glowing offering taste thee. Thou art waxing great.

3 The holy statutes rest by thee, as 'twere with ladles that o'erflow.

Black and white-gleaming colours,-at your glad carouse-all glories thou assurnest. Thou art waxing great.

4 O Agni, what thou deemest wealth, Victorious and Immortal One!

Bring thou to give us vigour,-at your glad carouse -splendid at sacrifices. Thou art waxing great.

5 Skilled in all lore is Agni, he whom erst Atharvan brought to life.

He was Vivasvan's envoy, at your glad carouse-the weIl-loved friend of Yama, Thou art waxing great.

6 At sacrifices they adore thee, Agni, when the rite proceeds.

All fair and lovely treasures-at your glad carouse-thou givest him who offers. Thou art waxing great.

7 Men, Agni, have established thee as welcome Priest at holy rites,

Thee whose face shines with butter,-at your glad carouse-bright, with eyes most observant. Thou art waxing great.

8 Wide and aloft thou spreadest thee, O Agni, with tby brilliant flame.

A Bull art thou when bellowing,-at your glad carouse-thou dost impregn the Sisters. Thou art waxing great.