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 months, that his friend had won the wager. He prepared to make honourable payment by handing a pill to old Shashi, who at once became a stout, handsome young Brahman, some twenty years old. Next putting a pill into his own mouth, he resumed the shape and form under which he had first appeared before Raja Subichar; and, leaning upon his staff, he led the way to the palace.

The king, in great confusion, at once recognized the old priest, and guessed the errand upon which he and the youth were come. However, he saluted them, and offered them seats, and receiving their blessings, he began to make inquiries about their health and welfare. At last he mustered courage to ask the old Brahman where he had been living for so long a time.

'Great king,' replied the priest, 'I went to seek after my son, and having found him, I bring him to your majesty. Give him his wife, and I will take them both home with me.'

Raja Subichar prevaricated not a little; but presently, being hard pushed, he related everything that had happened.

'What is this that you have done?' cried Muldev, simulating excessive anger and astonishment. 'Why have you given my son's wife in marriage to another man? You have done what you wished, and now, therefore, receive my Shrap (curse)!'

The poor Raja, in great trepidation, said, 'O