The palace of King Vikrama was large and magnificent. It contained the most splendid and costly articles: it was constantly sprinkled with aloes water, and every article of furniture was adorned by precious stones.
One day whilst Vikrama sat as usual on his throne, Shantil, the Yogin, presented himself, and so holy did he appear that the king received him with the utmost reverence, and coming down from his throne entreated his guest to take his seat. He then stood with clasped hands and paid him adoration.
Shantil presented an artificial fruit which he had brought, gave the benediction and went away. For several successive days the same thing was repeated, until on one occasion the king happened to drop the fruit which had been presented to him, a pet monkey broke it open, and a splendid ruby was seen within.
Thereupon the king desired to have all the other fruits which the holy man had presented, brought into his presence, and each fruit, when opened was found to contain rubies. The jewels were of the utmost rarity. Indeed, the smallest were of such value, that the largest could only be considered as beyond all price.
‘Hermit,’ said the king, ‘with what intention didst thou present me with such treasures; hast thou anything to ask of me?’
Shantil did not at once acknowledge what it was he wanted, but gradually revealed that he was engaged in rites for obtaining superhuman faculties, and that for their completion he required the personal assistance of the king.
He had travelled over the greater part of the world, he said, vainly seeking such a person as would suit his enterprise. ‘At length,’ he continued, ‘I came to your court, and have found in your Majesty the physiognomy of a person fitted to act as assistant in the intended sacrifice.’
The king did not give him time to say more, but eagerly promised to do whatever was required.
Shantil then explained that a certain Vetâl must be captured and given into his possession.
‘On the 14th of Aswin,’ said he, ‘at midnight, your Majesty must go alone to the cemetery on the banks of the Godavery, beyond the town: you must be clothed in black and bear in your hand a naked sword.’