The Cleaver Astrologer

The Cleaver Astrologer

Once there lived a famous king. He was fond of knowing his future. He open invited the best astrologer of the kingdom. A good astrologer happened to stop at this capital on his way to Banaras. The king called on him to know his future and the astrologer said something unpleasant. At this the king got furious and condemned him to death saying, “Men like you should not live to spoil the peace of the world.” But another thought crossed his mind before the astrologer was removed for execution. “How long would you live?” asked the king? This astrologer mused for while for some way of escape, as he was sure the king would prove him a liar putting him to death then and there, if he would live longer then that day. With ready wit he said, “The stars declare hat I shall die only a week before you Majesty. So good bye. I shall wait to receive your Majesty where you have been sending me.” At this the king turned pale as death and shouted. “Driver this wretch away, let him not come again.”