There was formerly the proud Gargya Balaki, a man of great reading. He said to Agatasatru of Kasi, 'Shall I tell you Brahman?' Agatasatru said: 'We give a thousand (cows) for that speech (of yours), for verily all people run away, saying, Ganaka (the king of Mithila) is our father (patron).'

In plain words: Gargya Balaki, a proud and well-read man, offered to teach King Ajatashatru of Kashi about Brahman, the ultimate reality. The king happily offered a thousand cows, saying people usually run to King Janaka for such teaching.