HARD it is to cross this sea of the world, we cannot pass it; we have drifted far away, we cannot reach the shore beyond. We cannot reckon, O generous one, the cycle of rebirths we have seen. We have fallen into a whirlpool, that has drawn us down in its vast eddies. We have grown up, but our intellect is vacant; it has wandered far and knows not where it is. If I let this hour pass, how shall I enquire again? In births unnumbered I have known enjoyment, food, sleep, and sensual pleasure; yea, in childhood, youth and age, pleasure is lord of all. I have passed these regions and travelled here; I have been rambling about. Now I pray thee unfold this knot, with a might as of dawning day. I will leave this worldly path, I am wearied by many a visit I have paid to it. I came to fancy it was all true; I fell into contamination, says Tuka.