Page:Folk-lore of the Telugus.djvu/40

 XIII.

Dwijakirtti, King of Cholamandala, had three sons. As he was old and no longer capable of guiding the helm of the State, he resolved to give his kingdom over to any of his sons who might be fit to rule.

In order, therefore, to ascertain their respective capabilities, he sent for his eldest son first and asked him what he most desired. He replied that he was most anxious to have around him the best logicians, grammarians, rhetoricians, and other men of science, and to pass his time in the study of the Rámáyana, Mahábhárata, and other sacred books. The king thereupon gave him a few villages for his upkeep, and told him to go and do according to his wishes.

He then sent for his second son and asked him what he desired most. He replied, "I am anxious to acquire much wealth, and visit sacred shrines." The king thereupon gave him