'What shall we do?' asked the King.
'Despatch two spies—the first to inform and send back the other, and make us know the enemy's strength or weakness. They must be such as can travel by land and water, so the Crane will serve for one, and we will keep his family in pledge at the King's gate. The other must be a very reserved character; as it is said—
'Sick men are for skilful leeches—prodigals for prisoning—
Fools for teachers—and the man who keeps a secret, for a King,'
'I know such a one,' said his Majesty, after a pause.
'It is half the victory,' responded the Minister.
At this juncture a chamberlain entered with a profound obeisance, and announced the arrival from Jambudwipa of the Parrot.
'Let him be shown to a reception-room,' commanded the Goose, in reply to a look from the King. 'He shall presently have audience.'
'War is pronounced, then,' said the King, as the attendant withdrew.
'It is offered, my Liege; but must not be rashly accepted,' replied the other—
'With gift, craft, promise, cause thy foe to yield;
When these have failed thee, challenge him a-field.'