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

106 command of his sovereign, took the princess under-his care, and at once began to impart to her the first lessons. “ A few days after this occurrence, the widow of Kashei- shwer, having discovered that her brother had sent his daughter to school, requested that he would place her son Soomunt also under the care of the Pundit, being of an age when he should commence his studies. The king, her brother, acceded to the request, and recommended the youth to the Pundit, at the same time giving strict injunctions to the pedagogue to take as much care of his nephew as he bestowed upon the princess, and on no account to make the slightest difference between them, as he cared equally. for both. The Pundit did as he was directed, and took them both under his tuition. From that day the Princess Malattee and Prince Soomunt became fondly attached to each other, and their love increased and gained strength with their years. “ One day, the princess, being in a cheerful humour. and exuberant spirits, was engaged in discussing a variety of subjects with the prince, and began playfully to tease him while arguing with him. Prince Soomunt penetrated her thoughts, and knowing the motives which prompted her, felt much grieved, so he begged her to desist from such proofs of her regard. He desired her, also, to converse with him no longer in that strain. ‘ Princess,’ said he, ‘ why do you thus tempt me? Is there any hope of your becoming my wife?’ ‘ Ah, yes!’ said she, ‘ there can be no doubt that I am destined to become your partner for life, and if you do not object to it, I here promise to be constant to you.’ ‘ My good princess,’ replied the youth, ‘ think well, I entreat you, ere you pledge yourself to anything. How can I place any reliance on what you may now feel disposed to say? You are but a child yet, and do not know what you promise. Consult your parents first, and take their advice : ascertain whether they are favourable to our union. You should be guided by them in all things, for it is your duty so to be. They are older and wiser than yourself, and