SECOND ATTENDANT.--We shall never pacify him by mere words, dear
Suvrata. Be kind enough to go to my cottage, and you will find there a
plaything belonging to Markandeya, one of the hermit's children. It is a
peacock made of China-ware, painted in many colors. Bring it here for
the child.
FIRST ATTENDANT.--Very well. [_Exit._
CHILD.--No, no; I shall go on playing with the young lion.
[_Looks at the female attendant and laughs_.
KING.--I feel an unaccountable affection for this wayward child.
How blessed the virtuous parents whose attire
Is soiled with dust, by raising from the ground
The child that asks a refuge in their arms!
And happy are they while with lisping prattle,
In accents sweetly inarticulate,
He charms their ears; and with his artless smiles
Gladdens their hearts, revealing to their gaze
His tiny teeth, just budding into view.
ATTENDANT.--I see how it is. He pays me no manner of attention.
[_Looking off the stage._] I wonder whether any of the hermits are about
here. [_Seeing the King.
Pages:
561
562
563
564
565
566
567
568
569
570
571
572
573
574
575
576
577
578
579
580
581
582
583
584
585