A Classical Dictionary of Hindu Mythology and Religion, Geography, History, and Literature c5.78

c5.78

High in his hand he bore the cup of nectar—
Life-giving draught—longed for by gods and demons.
Then had the demons forcibly borne off
The cup, and drained the precious beverage,
Had not the mighty Vishnu interposed.
Bewildering them, he gave it to the gods ;
Whereat, incensed, the demon troops assailed
The host of heaven, but they with strength renewed,
Quaffing the draught, struck down their foes, who fell
Headlong through space to lowest depths of hell!"