05.171
Bhishma said:
Then, O esteemed Bharata, I approached and embraced my heroic mother and said this to the maid.
I won these daughters of the king of Kāśi by defeating the kings, and they were obtained as a bride-price for Vicitravīrya.
Then, with tears in his eyes, the king smelled his son's head and joyfully said to Satyavati, "Fortunately, my son, you have conquered."
With Satyavati's consent, as the marriage was taking place, the eldest daughter of the king of Kashi spoke bashfully.
Bhishma, you are well-versed in dharma and all scriptures. Therefore, after hearing my righteous words, you should act accordingly here.
I had previously chosen the king of Śālva in my mind as a boon. He, too, had chosen me before, as my father secretly knew.
O king, how could you, after studying the scriptures, keep me, who desires another, in the house, especially Bhishma, the Kaurava?
O best of the Bharatas, having determined this with your intellect and mind, you should undertake here what is proper for you, O mighty-armed one.
The king of Śālva, lord of the people, is clearly waiting for me. O mighty-armed one, show mercy upon me, for you are the best among the upholders of dharma. We have heard that you are indeed the hero who upholds truth on earth.
