KING.--Tell my domestic priest, Somarata, to receive the hermits with
due honor, according to the prescribed form. He may then himself
introduce them into my presence. I will await them in a place suitable
for the reception of such holy guests.
CHAMBERLAIN.--Your Majesty's commands shall be obeyed. [_Exit._
KING [_rising and addressing the Warder_].--Vetravati, lead the way to
the chamber of the consecrated fire.
WARDER.--This way, Sire.
KING [_walking on, with the air of one oppressed by the cares of
government_].--People are generally contented and happy when they have
gained their desires; but kings have no sooner attained the object of
their aspirations than all their troubles begin.
'Tis a fond thought that to attain the end
And object of ambition is to rest;
Success doth only mitigate the fever
Of anxious expectation; soon the fear
Of losing what we have, the constant care
Of guarding it doth weary. Ceaseless toil
Must be the lot of him who with his hands
Supports the canopy that shields his subjects.
Two HERALDS [_behind the scenes_].
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