Rama was pleased with Sita's concern for him, though he did not agree with her in view of the conditions that existed in Dandaka. He said, "Sita, the ascetics of this forest are the refuge of the world, but they have now sought my refuge. Harassed by the demons, in the presence of evil and the absence of peace, these men of god have become food for the flesh eating fiends. Beset by perils they seek my protection, for they can neither defend themselves nor curse the rakshasas as the latter act would efface the merit of their penance. It is not only my bounden duty to help these hapless hermits but a crime not to give shelter to those who petition it. I now remind you of what you once said that a Kshatriya should ever bear arms in defense of the defenseless and the distressed. I have pledged to protect them and so long as I live, I will not violate that promise. To me truth is most dear and I would never swerve from it. I would sooner abandon you and Lakshmana than abandon those Brahmins. Without their asking, I would have defended them. How much more should I now protect them, since I have committed myself? Yet I am grateful to you for your loving counsel, for they alone that care take such liberties. Your words befit you and your race. Sita, you who tread the path of dharma along with me are dearer to me than my very life."