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

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“ Well, then,” said the king, “ pay him a quarter of his
gift ; there is no necessity for giving him more : do as I
bid you.” The brahmin was astounded at this unusual
proceeding, and very injudiciously made the following
remark :—“ I cannot think you act as becomes your
exalted position. Vickramadetea always entertained me at
his court with every demonstration of respect and pleasure,
and not unfrequently sent me back loaded with presents in
addition to the regular allotment ; indeed he was in all
respects a most humane, just, and discerning prince. You
are placed in authority over this kingdom, and, to acquit
yourself well of the trust, should prove a father to the people
you rule. From what I now observe, and other circum-
stances that have come under my notice, you are unworthy
of your dignity. I feel assured that God will sooner or later
visit you with his severe judgment, on account of the course
you now pursue, and the outrages and cruel barbarities
you are inflicting upon your subjects.” Koobjuck, highly
indignant at the daring of the brahmin, directed an officer
in attendance to take him immediately from his sight, and
to turn him out of the city with ignominy. “ Tell him,”
said he, “ to go in search of his mighty Vickramadetea,
as he calls him, and if he succeeds in finding this
imaginary person, he may perhaps meet with satisfac-
tion.” “ Have a little patience,” said the brahmin, “ I will
endeavour to find him, and bring him here, depend upon
it. It would be in vain that my mother carried me for
nine months in her womb, if I fail in this. Allow me to
remind you that the Indra and Bhusmasoor were not
overlooked by Almighty God, but were punished for their
barbarity.” Saying this, and before the officer who had been
ordered to remove him could put his orders into execution,
the brahmin bounded past him, and was on his way to look
for the rightful king, as he had said. He travelled from one
city to another, through unknown and unexplored wilds,
over hills and dales, and into every place where he thought
there was any likelihood of meeting with or hearing of the