He that putteth forth his might both upon his benefactor and his foe, is an object of alarm to the world, like a snake that hath taken shelter in a house, to the inmates thereof.  What prosperity can he have who is an object of alarm to the world?  People always do him an injury when they find a hole.  Therefore, should men never exhibit might in excess nor forgiveness on all occasions.  One should put forth his might and show his forgiveness on proper occasions.  He that becometh forgiving at the proper time and harsh and mighty also at the proper time, obtaineth happiness both in this world and the other.

“’I shall now indicate the occasions in detail of forgiveness, as laid down by the learned, and which should ever be observed by all.  Hearken unto me as I speak!  He that hath done thee a service, even if he is guilty of a grave wrong unto thee, recollecting his former service, shouldst thou forgive that offender.  Those also that have become offenders from ignorance and folly should be forgiven for learning and wisdom are not always easily attainable by man.  They that having offended thee knowingly, plead ignorance should be punished, even if their offences be trivial.  Such crooked men should never be pardoned.  The first offence of every creature should be forgiven.  The second offence, however, should be punished, even if it be trivial.  If, however, a person commiteth an offence unwillingly, it hath been said that examining his plea well by a judicious enquiry, he should be pardoned.  Humility may vanquish might, humility may vanquish weakness.  There is nothing that humility may not accomplish.  Therefore, humility is truly fiercer (than it seemeth)!  One should act with reference to place and time, taking note of his own might or weakness.  Nothing can succeed that hath been undertaken without reference to place and time.  Therefore, do thou ever wait for place and time!  Sometimes offenders should be forgiven from fear of the people.  These have been declared to be times of forgiveness.  And it hath been said that on occasions besides these, might should be put forth against transgressors.’

“Draupadi continued, ’I, therefore, regard, O king, that the time hath come for thee to put forth thy might!  Unto those Kurus the covetous sons of Dhritarashtra who injure us always, the present is not the time for forgiveness!  It behoveth thee to put forth thy might.  The humble and forgiving person is disregarded; while those that are fierce persecute others.  He, indeed, is a king who hath recourse to both, each according to its time!’”

SECTION XXIX