himself absolutely nothing but the clothes which he wore; and in the
morning, having filled the purse with gold--the proceeds of the
robbery--he showed it to his neighbours, who were fully convinced of
its magic powers.

The fame of the purse was thus spread abroad; and we were able to
account for our newly-acquired wealth, without incurring any suspicion
as to the manner of obtaining it.

At this time; for reasons which will presently appear, I induced
Vimardaka to enter the service of Arthapati; and directed him to use
all possible means to excite his master against Dhanamittra. In this
he had no difficulty; for the father of Kulapâlika, hearing of his
sudden acquisition of wealth, did not even wait to be asked, but of
his own accord renewed the former engagement, and rejected Arthapati.

About that time it was publicly announced that a younger sister of
Kâmamanjari--Râgamanjari by name--would make her first appearance as a
dancer and singer. Great expectations having been raised, a large
number of spectators, including myself and my friend Dhanamittra, were
present at the performance.

I was struck by her beauty the instant she appeared on the stage; but
when I heard her sweet voice, and saw her graceful movements, I was
perfectly enchanted, and unable to take my eyes off her for a moment.

The performance being ended, she withdrew, followed by the longing
eyes and loud applause of the spectators; and giving, as I fancied, a
significant look at me.