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

17 by a like process, a young lady of incomparable beauty, splendidly attired, with costly jewels vieing in brilliancy with the sun and her own charms. Another assumed the form of a horse of exact symmetry and rare perfections, richly caparisoned, with a saddle-cloth and bits of pure gold, fit for the use of the highest personage in the land. The chief mounted the horse, and, with the lady in his arms, rode through the air as if by magic, until they arrived opposite to the king's court, where they descended. The king, and all assembled with him, looked on in astonishment at the wonderful feat performed, and the beauty and richness of the persons. The warrior dismounted, and stepping for- ward to the king, addressed him as follows:—"Oh king! I am come on a most particular mission." "Speak!" said the king. The warrior continued,—"There is in heaven a grand war between the divine Angels and the Daityas*; the army of the Angels is already encamped in the field, and have sent for me to assist them in the struggle; my beautiful wife (pointing to her) had determined to accompany me to the battle-field, although I seriously entreated her not to do it, but her obstinacy has been so great, that I was com- pelled to bring her with me. I am, however, resolved, upon better thoughts, not to expose her to the dangers of war, so I bring her to your court for safety during my absence, knowing that you will be kind and treat her well, and set before her examples of religion, and of strict and correct be- haviour. Please, then, have the same consideration for her as you would for a mother or sister, and act by her accord- ingly. I must tell you that my name is Vejydhwaj,† and I am a resident of the city of Auyodhea. I am now about to ascend to heaven, and I beg you will be pleased to take charge of my wife till I return, I hope with victory in my train; but should fate have reserved for me death on the field, then I conjure you to immolate her, in accordance with the usual practice on such occasions." "Ah! Vejydhwaj,"

• Demons or Asœrus. † Flag of victory. D