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SAHASRAMALLA
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first called on the horse-dealer who had halted outside the city. The dealer telcomed him. In a very cordial tone, Sahasramalla said,
"How is it, sir, that you have halted outside the city ? Worthy man such as you should stay inside the city'
“Sir ! I am a stranger to this city. I have no particular place in the city where I may stay. So I am comfortable here."
“What a nice excuse, sir, You are welcome at my residence. You may use it as your own
The dealer wanted to change the topic and said,
"Sir ! If a stranger stays with somebody, it creates Ubnecessary suspicion and gossip. That is not good for the city itself. I am a merchant, interested in selling out my things and buying whatever salable merchandise I may get here So I am quite at home outside the city's
“Suspicion may be generated, as you say, only if you stay with some well-known notoreity, but where is the scope for this if you stay in the midst of honest people? If you stay with me, and if that raises unnecessary gossip, then what do I gain in keeping you with me ? I think, you should have 10 objection in staying with me I can assure you, sir, that there will be no trouble on either side's
The dealer was very much impressed by his cordiality and he accepted the invitation, Sahasramalla now took him straight to the harlot's home. In confidence, he told the lady,
“This rich horse-déaler is a foreigner and he is now your clieot. You make suitable arrangement for his reception"
Kamapataka was in a very bigh spirit. She allotted a well-furnished room for the dealer's use. Deeply obliged to Sahasramalla, she even offered to wash his feet with her own hands and make him comfortable But said he,
"Wait! I must see the king at once. Could you help me with some of your valuable ornaments ? I shall soon restore them to you"
