The ghost said: "The racket would most likely wake the Brahman. In that case all my trouble would be vain."
"But, on the other hand," said the thief, "if any hindrance arises when you start to eat him, then I cannot steal the two cows either. First I will steal the two cows, then you may eat the Brahman."
So they disputed, each crying "Me first! Me first!" And when they became heated, the hubbub waked the Brahman. Then the thief said: "Brahman, this is a ghost who wishes to eat you." And the ghost said: "Brahman, this is a thief who wishes to steal your two cows."
When the Brahman heard this, he stood up and took a good look. And by remembering a prayer to his favorite god, he saved his life from the ghost, then lifted a club and saved his two cows from the thief.
"And that is why I say:
From enemies expect relief, . . . .
and the rest of it. Besides:
The Scriptures tell a holy tale
Of sacrificial love,
How Shibi gave the hawk his flesh
As ransom for the dove—
showing that it is contrary to religion to slay a suppliant."
Having listened to this opinion, the king asked
