XX.
THE MAGICIAN’S PUPIL.[1]
In long past times, King Brahmadatta lived in Vārāṇasī. There also a Chaṇḍāla[2] lived, who was versed in spells and magic lore, and who, employing the Gāndhāra-Mantra, was wont to obtain by spells from the Gandhamādana mountain[3] such fruits and flowers as were not in season, and to present them to king Brahmadatta. The King who was highly pleased thereby, made him presents. Now there was a Brahman youth who longed after a knowledge of spells. And in his search after them, in accordance with what he heard spoken thereof, he came from his own country to Vārāṇasī. After he had recovered from the fatigues of his journey, he betook himself to the Brahman who was versed in spells and magic lore. And when he came before him, he said—
“I wish to serve the Paṇḍit.”
“Why?”
“For the sake of learning magic.”
The Chaṇḍāla replied in verse, “Magic lore is communicated to no man. It dies with its possessor. Or it is vouchsafed to him who has knowledge and means and renders service.”
The youth said, “O Paṇḍit, if such is the case, and I [[289]]have to render service, I ask for how long a time must that be.”
“When you have served twelve years,” was the reply, “it will be seen whether I shall communicate it to you or not.”
As the youth had a great craving after magic lore, he agreed to this, and after he had with the greatest joy testified his respect, he entered upon his service.