Those devoted to Krishna stood firm before those who sought to seize the innocent couple. With resolute voices, they declared, “Release this sinless pair, beloved of Hari.” They reminded all present that anyone who harbors evil thoughts toward the innocent is truly the lowest of men, and even one who, though pure in mind, commits evil deeds, is counted among the lowest of the low. Such wicked ones are destined for punishment by Yama, the Lord of Death, and so, they declared, “We shall take these two before him, that righteousness and unrighteousness may be discerned.” But the attendants of Yama responded to these self-righteous ones, who clung to outward virtue yet acted unrighteously. They warned, “Those who lack true discernment inevitably bring great calamity upon themselves. Why are you still so eager to commit sinful acts, even now? Know that those who persist in such deeds remain in dreadful hell as long as the moon, sun, and stars endure. Why should I, then, again and again perform sinful deeds?” Instead, the messengers resolved, “Let us truthfully recount the righteous and unrighteous acts performed by these two.” They recognized, “Since these souls are protected by Hari, release them without delay. At the end of life, in the house of Vishnu, they have attained freedom from sin through Him. One who serves Krishna attains the highest state—how much more so those who have devoted themselves in service! Even a man who serves Krishna at the end of his life attains the supreme goal. The messengers of Hari come swiftly, and even sinners reach the highest state through His grace. He too attains the supreme abode—what then of those who have served faithfully for years?” “These two,” they continued, “always dwelt in the house of Hari, worn and weary from their service. How could such greatly blessed souls be worthy of suffering torment?” Thus, the couple ascended to the summit of the celestial chariot and reached the supreme abode of Vishnu. There, they enjoyed divine pleasures for a long time, O best of sages. Even in this world, all prosperity comes by the grace of service to Hari, and such a result is attained, O Brahmin, which is difficult even for the gods to obtain. It is established that through such service, the highest good is attained. And if such merit is gained from giving land, O lord of the earth, how much greater is the fruit when offered with faith! Having thus fulfilled their service, the praiseworthy spouses went to their own abode. Service to Hari is remembered as the wish-fulfilling cow for all; it bestows the highest good and grants the fruit of every desire. Whoever recites or even hears this account also attains supreme delight. Now, the fivefold worship of Hari is rare in all the worlds and renowned everywhere. It is the source of dharma, desire, wealth, and liberation, O best of sages. In the bright fortnight of Mārgaśīrṣa, on the tenth day, with senses controlled, one should properly worship the gods and perform the five great sacrifices. Then, rising early on the eleventh day, one should bathe the Lord of lords with the five nectars, according to the proper rite. With incense, lamps, offerings, betel leaves, and circumambulations, let there be worship. With folded hands, offer salutations: “Salutations to you, whose form is knowledge, giver of knowledge—salutations to you!” Having thus bowed to Vāsudeva, the Lord of gods and remover of men’s distress, one should resolve: “From this day onward, O Keśava, I will observe the Pañcarātra fast without food.” Thus, the glory of service and worship to Hari is proclaimed, leading all who hear or follow to the highest good.