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

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bring himself to believe this statement. He said, “Since you are the same person, go and call your wife here instantly, that we may satisfy ourselves, by ocular proof, of the truth of your story.” Whereupon he shouted to his wife, “My dear wife! I pray you do not delay joining me here in the presence of our sovereign and his noble councillors and retainers, as they are very anxious to see you.” No sooner did she hear the voice of her husband than she made her appearance, her beauty, as if purified by fire, appearing still more attractive, which, with the graceful and sylph-like form she possessed, threw the whole court into an ecstacy of delight, so much so that each and all fell passionately in love with her. The king was mightily pleased with this delightful vision. He immediately ordered his treasurer to pay to the owner of so much beauty and attraction as much money as he required, and other pre- sents, such as rich suits of apparel, ornaments, jewels, &c. In addition to all this, he was allowed to perform his plays within the city without let or hindrance, and for as long a time as he might think proper. The ministers, nobles, and all the wealthier portion of the community, awarded him dresses of honor according to their respective rank and ability ; many of the poorer citizens also came forward and contributed their share towards increasing the riches that were showered upon this fortunate Bahooroopee, who was compelled to call in assistance to remove the wealth he had acquired in so short a period from the palace. He soon after retired to his dwelling, and the king's council dissolved. The Bahooroopee was transported with joy at the sudden and unexpected turn his fortune had taken. From being one of the most destitute of the human kind, he was now possessed of wealth and affluence, and could command the friendship even of the great and powerful. On his return to the humble dwelling of former days, he went to the parrot, who had been instrumental in enriching him far beyond his most unbounded wishes, and renewed his thanks and professions of perpetual friendship, after throwing him- E