BOTH THE CONSTABLES [_striking the prisoner_].--Take that for a rascally
thief that you are; and now tell us, sirrah, where you found this
ring--aye, the King's own signet-ring. See, here is the royal name
engraved on the setting of the jewel.
FISHERMAN [_with a gesture of alarm_].--Mercy! kind sirs, mercy! I did
not steal it; indeed I did not.
FIRST CONSTABLE.--Oh! then I suppose the King took you for some fine
Brahman, and made you a present of it?
FISHERMAN.--Only hear me. I am but a poor fisherman, living at
Sakravatara------
SECOND CONSTABLE.--Scoundrel, who ever asked you, pray, for a history of
your birth and parentage?
SUPERINTENDENT [_to one of the Constables_].--Suchaka, let the fellow
tell his own story from the beginning. Don't interrupt him.
BOTH CONSTABLES.--As you please, master. Go on, then, sirrah, and say
what you've got to say.
FISHERMAN.--You see in me a poor man, who supports his family by
catching fish with nets, hooks, and the like.
SUPERINTENDENT [_laughing_].--A most refined occupation, certainly!
FISHERMAN.
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