38 
THE ORIENTAL ANNUAL. 
divine origin of his family. He cast himself before 
these impure altars, in the anguish of his heart, of- 
fering his broad lands, his entire wealth, and his aged 
body for sacrifice, if they would snatch his darling 
child from destruction. 
The fiends received the Raja with yells and screams 
of triumph and delight, promised him all he sought, 
provided, only, he would accede to one condition. 
Unhesitatingly did the eager parent promise all 
without reserve ; hut no sooner had the officiating 
priest declared his meaning, than the hapless Rung 
Bhowani, covering his face with his hands, turned from 
the assembled magicians, in silent horror of their hate- 
ful laws, and fled for refuge to a neighbouring temple 
of Krishna. Here he met a very venerable and 
devout Brahmin, who, surprised to find a person of 
high rank in such a condition, and warmly compas- 
sionating his affliction, by kindness and gentle persua- 
sion, with promises of assistance, wrung from him a 
full account of his life’s misfortunes, and his present 
woe. The Brahmin, after some moments spent in deep 
thought, enquired if the Raja were still disposed to 
sacrifice his wealth for his daughter’s restoration, and, 
being assured of the fact, he then encouraged him to 
hope. 
“ Be comforted, my son,” said he, “ there is certain 
life for yourself and your child, if you will follow my 
counsel. Convert all that you have into gold, and, 
taking it with you as a peace offering, set forth with 
