12.353
Bhishma said.
He, having addressed the best of serpents, the brāhmaṇa, having firmly resolved and desiring initiation, then, O king, approached Cyavana, the descendant of Bhṛgu. (12-353-1)
Having performed the rites, he approached dharma. In the same way, O king, he told this story at that time. (12-353-2)
O king, this auspicious story was also told by Bhārgava to the great-souled Nārada in the residence of Janaka. (12-353-3)
O best of the Bharatas, these were also told by Nārada in Indra's abode, O king, when asked by one whose actions are unwearied. (12-353-4)
O lord of the earth, this auspicious story was once told by the king of the gods to all the excellent Vasus. (12-353-5)
O king, when there was a very terrible battle between me and Rāma, then this story was told by me to the Vasus. (12-353-6)
O best of the upholders of dharma, O lord of the people, I have truly told you, who are asking, this meritorious and righteous account. (12-353-7)
O Bhārata, that which you ask me is the supreme duty: to be unwavering and free from desire in the performance of duty and purpose, O king. (12-353-8)
He, having firmly resolved, the foremost of the twice-born, having performed the task as instructed by the lord of serpents, composed in restraint and observance, entered the depths of the forest, subsisting on gleanings and stones. (12-353-9)
