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

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drawing to a close, and the two youths regretted, as did the hermit, their approaching separation. The day, however, arrived on which they were to part, perhaps never more to meet, and the old man was as much affected as were his youthful friends. He gave them every needful direction regarding the road they were to take. At the distance of about twenty-four yojuns from the hermit's dwelling there were two roads—one to the left and one to the right. He advised them to follow the one to the right, the other being difficult and hazardous. The one he advised them to take he said they would find easy and safe, and on it they would meet with every accommodation for travellers and strangers, which was not the case with the other. On leaving, the hermit presented the prince with a small sword, telling him that if it should at any time be put into the fire until it became red-hot, he would certainly be in imminent danger, unless somebody should cool it; for that, although he might have it within his grasp, some enemy would rush upon him, overpower him, and finally prove victorious. ‘Remember,’ said the hermit, by way of concluding his observations, ‘Remember, these are my last words!’ He then bestowed his parting blessing upon them, and they in return paid him much reverence. Having gratefully acknowledged his kindness, and rendered suitable thanks, expressing at the same time their regret that they had not the means of making him a more substantial return, they proceeded on their journey. “In a few days they came to the spot where the two roads the hermit had alluded to branched off in opposite directions. Here they laid themselves down under a shady tree, to refresh themselves before they proceeded any further on their way. After awhile, the prince proposed that they should take the road to the left, but his companion did not agree to it, and reminded him of the caution they had received from the hermit. The prince was obstinate. ‘I would know,’ said he, ‘what perils and difficulties are to be encountered upon it, and when once satisfied on that point,