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your guardian deity, for your last hour has come.' When he drew his dagger and said this to the maiden, she began to weep. Then Dípaçikha was filled with compassion at hearing this lamentation of the damsel, so he drew his sword from the sheath, and said to the maiden, 'Fear not'; and presenting himself in front of the adept in magic, he said: You scoundrel, you worst of villains, are you not ashamed to kill this girl? I will cut off your head with this sword.' When the adept in magic heard this heroic speech, his whole body trembled with fear, and he forgot to repeat his spells. He said to the prince: Noble sir, you ought not to impede me when intent on performing magic rites. I am an adept named Bhárabhúti, and I have begun the employment of a spell for attracting a beautiful maiden. The previous rites lasted twelve months, and to-day, the crowning day of the whole ceremony, I have drawn here by the might of spells this princess for a sacrifice, so do not impede me.' Thereupon Prince Dípaçikha said: Noble sir, the slaughter of a woman is a disgrace to a man of honour, so think no more of murdering a woman, which involves great guilt. Moreover, you seem to be a man of a very attractive exterior, so the slaying of a woman is peculiarly unbecoming to you.' Then the adept in magic was ashamed. He said to the prince Distinguished sir, right well have you admonished me. I am exceedingly wicked. So I abandon this wicked enterprise, and I will now return to my own place. You must give back to King Avantivardhana this maiden named Avantiní." The prince said: 'I will do so.' Thereupon the adept went to his own place, and Prince Dípaçikha returned to his camp with the maiden. He related the adventure to his two wives, and in the morning he handed over the girl to the king, Avantivardhana, and related to him the circumstances. The king, Avantivardhana, was pleased, and gave his daughter to Dípaçikha. The joyful wedding ceremony was performed. After the prince had remained some time, he again continued his march by regular stages towards his own country. As he
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