विक्रम चरित (उज्जैन सम्राट् विक्रमादित्य - पराक्रम, न्याय एवं ३२ पुतलियों की कथा सटीक)

98 King Bhudrasain was astounded at the announcement of an invading army being in the outskirts of the town, and he knew from experience that no hastily-concerted measures could be of any use in repelling the attacks of a strong and disciplined foe. However, the minister had in the mean time collected a large number of men, and, with some few of the regular troops to back them, he determined to proceed, as he said, to meet the invading force, and ascertain the cause of their wanton aggression. He therefore appeared before the king, prostrated himself at the foot of the throne, and obtained the royal authority to go on his mission. " Prince Bulsain observing the army of his grandsire approaching in warlike array towards him, was convinced that the formidable appearance his men presented 'was the cause of some alarm in the country. He therefore directed a letter to be written, containing full particulars, and despatched it by a trusty messenger, praying that his majesty would recal his army, and be graciously pleased to favor his son Soorsain and his grandson Bulsain with an interview. The messenger to whom this letter was entrusted gallopped away in advance, and came up to King Bhudra- sain's minister, who was on his way with his force to meet the supposed enemy. The messenger desired to be presented without delay to the king his master, as he had a letter of great importance to deliver to him personally ; he also communicated to the minister verbally what the presence of the great army outside meant. The minister of Bhudra- sain was overjoyed, and he lost no time in directing an officer to conduct the bearer of the letter into the presence of the king, telling him not to lose a word of what his majesty might say. The officer and the messenger then proceeded together, and, after having traversed the city, they arrived at the magnificent palace of King Bhudrasain. He was seated in the council chamber, deeply engaged in discussing with his courtiers the reason of the sudden appearance of so formidable a force as he had been informed of. The messenger was immediately ushered into the king's