The mouse quickly proceeded to sever the bonds of Chitragriva. Chirtagriva said - Friend, do not do so; first cut the bonds of these my followers; and then you will cut mine. Hiranyaka too replied - I have little strength and my teeth are delicate, how then can I gnaw asunder the snares of these all? So as long as my teeth are not broken, I will cut your bonds and then sever those of the rest too as far as my strength will allow. Chitragriva said - Be it so; but cut the bonds of these to the best of your strength. Hiranyaka replied - The protection of dependents at the cost of one's life is not approved of by those conversant with the science of conduct (or, policy). For, one should save money (as a provision) against the time of trouble, save one's wife even at the expense of wealth and save one's own self even at the cost of one's wife and wealth.