Devavrata said, "Father, you are a just ruler; you have always followed truth and justice. You are a strong king. There is no fear of war as long as you are on the throne. The people are very happy. What sorrow then crushes you? Tell me, I beg of you."

Shantanu sighed deeply and said,

"Devavrata, do not think of it. I have so ruled that the world approves, I have so lived that God approves."

A new thought troubled Devavrata. Had he himself done anything that had made his father unhappy? Like a child he begged his father: "Father, have I done wrong? Tell me, if I have, I shall correct myself. I shall punish myself and beg forgiveness of you."

Shantanu was deeply moved. He said, "My son, you are my life. You are a learned man. You will never do wrong. You are brave and strong; but you never harm any one unjustly. The people love and honor you as they love and honor me. How can I find fault with you?"

Devavrata could not understand his father's sorrow. He saw Shantanu was hiding something - but what?

Devavrata came away from his father. He sent for his father's charioteer. From him he learnt all that had happened. 'My father's happiness alone is important. I shall sacrifice anything for him', he said.