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12
S. T. Nimkar
104. Ths, as the king was indulging in the pleasure un light
conversation, a minister's son taking this opportunity spoke
(thus', - 105 "My lord ! I think he is a spy appointed by the king of
Simhala; he is staying in Candralekha's house with this
qualification of knowing (the technique of painting). 106. Such spies who stay in this manner in the capitals of
kings are called Yakşas by name in this world.” 106.1. Then, o beautiful girl (Savitri !), the king said, “Against
that Siṁhala king has been sent (by us, our army comman.
der) Vijayānanda accompanied by the great minister Puitisa. 106.2. From his camp, till to-day, no one has come to tell (us)
the truth (as to) what Sinhala-king says or what our army
commander (has to say)”. 107. (Thc minister-prince said). “To-day itself the spies have
reported that Vijayānanda with (the glory of his) valour
enhanced, has reached the sea-shore together with Pottisa. 108. Similarly that Simhala king also, being alert from that day
and being fearless has himself equipped his forts with
fodder and fuel. 109. He has made the sea-shores rough (i. e. difficult to land),
has ascertained (possible) battlefields and being unhesitant
he is looking forward to a great fight with Vijayānanda”. 110. And the king said, “My dear friend, that Vijayānanda alone
is sufficient there in (deciding about) his peace or war;
why should we think about it? 111. Will that Vijayānanda, by whom even other great kings
were frightened, be deceived by the king of Simhala ? 112. (So) tell me some other time what your spy has reported
to you. Let this beautiful song (and dance) festival pass
first”. 113. Saying this, the king gave lots of Spring-festival presents
to all (those) courtezans and bards.
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