"Grandsire, the world knows that you are a warrior who knows not fear. The same is the case with Drona Kripa, Aswatthama, Kritavarma, Sudakshin, Bhurisravas, Vikarna and Bhagadatta.

Death has no terror for these veterans. There is no doubt, the prowess of these great warriors is limitless, even like your own.

All the Pandavas combined cannot defeat any one of you. What then is the mystery behind this daily defeat of our army at the hands of the sons of Kunti?"

Bhishma replied: "Prince, listen to me. I have given you advice on every occasion and told you what was good for you. But, you have always refused to follow what your elders counselled you to do.