Tukaram, Poem 1474

To the eight ministers I make a request; explain my counsel to the Lord of the earth. O Keeper of the seals, you are the guardian of the king’s honour, you are a shrewd man, be you a home of purity. O Keeper of the records, you yourself are a writer; expound this letter of mine. O Reader of State papers, Privy Counsellor, Secretary, Chief Messenger, Commander-in-chief; O Prince of Pandits, treasure of knowledge, O Prince of Physicians, I salute you. Comprehend my letter, expound it and cause His majesty to hear it. Loving truthful words I have spoken at length, to illustrate my meaning and make it clear. Convey to the king this appropriate message; attend to its purport, let it not be wasted. If any apprehension leads you to conceal my meaning, it will recoil on yourselves. Tuka says, To all you officials I send my respects; read my letter to the king.