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

54 the lake. It so happened that the tree under which he sat was the one most loved by the parrot. The brahmin, after having adjusted his clothes, which had been disarranged by his recent travelling, raised his voice and prayed loudly. “Oh, supreme ruler of the universe!” said he, “do not permit me to go back empty-handed from my travels. I solicit no other favor than that you will be pleased to grant me an interview with my old patron and just king Vickra- madetea. The world does not often produco such a rare and virtuous prince: he is rich in every good quality.” Before the brahmin took up his position under the tree, the unfor- tunate parrot, who was perched up aloft, had observed him approaching. He now said to the brahmin, “My good sir, you seem to have come a long distance, and you are greatly fatigued, no doubt, by walking in this hot season of the year. Pray be seated. Please inform me respecting your destination, whom you seek, and your reasons for under- taking so long a journey.” The traveller was extremely pleased at the consideration and sympathising manner in which he was addressed. He suspected something, but could not well define even to himself what that suspicion was. He said to the parrot, however, “Oh, excellent parrot! too truly am I fatigued, both in body and mind; but I feel much relieved of my anxiety at beholding you and hearing you speak. If you are not what you seem to be, pray tell me. I suspect you to be the king of whom I am in search. If so, hasten your return to the city of Oujein. I entreat you, lose no time; and make me acquainted with the circumstances attending your metamorphosis. If you will afford me no comfort in this respect, I shall certainly die of grief.” “By what means,” said the parrot, “would you know again the king? Perhaps he is not in human shape.” “Why not?” said the traveller; “he is a most excellent personage, and I can point him out by virtue of his wisdom, exquisite beauty, and other rare qualities. I am sanguine I shall soon meet him. I see marvellous signs that forebode it. My hand is quivering, my right eye twitching, and the bird