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

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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aid he had received having been suddenly withdrawn.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