s majesty Bimbisara to his faithful and
most noble general, Siha.

_GS._ _Breaks the seal and reads to himself._

"The Sakyas are a stubborn little nation. Their institutions are free;
their laws differ from those of the other surrounding states. These
people are a source of discontent and revolution, and are a sore in my
eye. Therefore, the Sakyas must be crushed, even if they sue for
peace. Keep the army near the border and be ready for a sudden
attack."

_With an expression of grief._

War is unavoidable and I am to be the means by which the Sakyas will
be wiped off the earth. It is my duty, for the King commands it. A
soldier should not argue, he obeys.

_Draws his sword and looks at it._

This sword is consecrated to the service of my king.
Never have I drawn it except in honest fight.

_Lost in contemplation._

Is Sakyamuni the Buddha?--Is he truly the Buddha?
Buddhas are wise; Buddhas are omniscient; Buddhas foresee the
future.--
Is Sakyamuni truly the Buddha?--I believe he is.
And if he is the Buddha, is it right to wage a war against his
people?--What shall I do?
Oh, ye gods, teach me my duty!
Oh, ye gods, may it not be my lot to fight for an unrighteous cause!
Cursed be the sword that sheds innocent blood.

SECOND SCENE.

[Bimbisara's court at Rajagaha]

_Present: KING BIMBISARA (Bb.), VISAKHA (V), and NAGADEVA
(N)._

_V._ The Sakyas will make a hard fight, great King, and the war will
cost blood. These northern settlers are taller and stronger than other
races and possess the courage of the inhabitants of their former
frigid homes. It would be easier to take possession of their state if
I married Princess Yasodhara and gradually assumed the government
under your protection. Your mighty friendship would support me on the
throne and you could rule through me.

_Bb._ That sounds acceptable, but in the meantime, I prepare for war.

_V._ Even in war I shall be of service to you. I can lead your army
where it will not meet with resistance, and I know the names of those
who are dissatisfied. Many could be induced to join your forces; and I
can betray the very person of the raja into your hands.

_Bb._ _Nodding kindly to VISAKHA, then turning to
NAGADEVA._

Is our kingdom in readiness?

_N._ Great King, it is. General Siha stands in the field with a strong
force ready to strike. There are another fifty thousand within call to
make a sudd