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

284 lives were sacrificed in the pursuit. Shalivahan kept Vick- ramadetea in view, and finding at last that he had approached him sufficiently near, he let fly an arrow, which pierced Vickramadetea's heart and for ever stopped his breath. After this he resolved to return, and with that view collected his forces and attempted to recross the river, but no sooner did the troops enter the water than they at once dissolved, and a voice issued from the clouds, exclaiming, "Victory ! victory ! O Shalivahan, be satisfied with the prodigy you have this day been enabled to perform. Henceforth a new era commences, named after yourself, and you will reign supreme in the southern and western provinces beyond the Nerbudda, but the northern parts will still apper- tain to the heir of Vickramadetea, and be governed by his descendants." Shalivahan, after hearing this prediction, returned to his house, but with a sinking heart and dejected looks, caused no doubt by the loneliness of his situation, as there was not even a charger left for him to mount, all the temporary aid he had received having been suddenly withdrawn. When he reached his dwelling his mother Soometra met him with great joy, and loaded him with caresses, praising him for the prowess he had that day displayed, as did also his grandfather Soolochun. They once more reverted to their former mode of living, until at length, in progress of time, Shalivahan was proclaimed king, according to the prediction he had heard while recrossing the river Ner- budda after killing Vickramadetea as above related. He was now placed in a position suited to his high talent, and in which he could give free scope to the powers of his mind and to his matured ideas of justice and equity. He reigned long, enjoyed unusual reputation, and at length was gathered to his fathers full of years and honour. At Oojein, the death of Vickramadetea caused, as may be supposed, much regret and sincere sorrow in the breasts of his loving and devoted subjects, and they mourned for him as for a father. After the usual period