nd the scenes._ Men! Men! We have the following
orders from the chief of police: "A soothsayer has declared that
a young herdsman named Aryaka is to become king. Trusting to
this prophecy, and alarmed thereat, King Palaka has taken him
from his hamlet, and thrown him into strict confinement. Therefore
be watchful, and every man at his post."

_Sharvilaka._ [_Listening._] What! King Palaka has imprisoned my
good friend Aryaka? And here I am, a married man. Confound it!
But no,

Two things alone--his friend, his wife--
Deserve man's love below;
A hundred brides may forfeit life
Ere he should suffer so. 25

Good! I will get out [_He does so._]

_Madanika._ [_Folding her hands. Tearfully._] My lord, if you must,
at least bring me first to your parents.

_Sharvilaka._ Yes, my love. I will. I had the same thought in mind.
[_To the servant._] My good fellow, do you know the house of the
merchant Rebhila?

_Servant._ Certainly.

_Sharvilaka._ Bring my wife thither.

_Servant._ Yes, sir.

_Madanika_. If you desire it, dear. But dear, you must be very
careful. [_Exit._

P. 113.6]

_Sharvilaka._ Now as for me,

I'll rouse my kin, the kitchen cabinet.
Those high in fame by strength of good right arm,
And those who with the king's contempt have met,
And royal slaves, to save my friend from harm:
Like old Yaugandharayana
For the good king Udayana. 26

And again:

My friend has causeless been confined
By wicked foes of timid kind;
I fly, I fly to free him soon,
Like the eclipse-oppressed moon. [_Exit._] 27

_Maid._ [_Entering._] Mistress, I congratulate you. A Brahman has
come with a message from Charudatta.

_Vasantasena._ Ah, this is a joyful day. Show him every mark of
respect, girl, and have him conducted hither by one of the pages.

_Maid._ Yes, mistress. [_Exit._

* * * * *

[_Enter Maitreya with a page._]

_Maitreya._ Well! Ravana, the king of the demons, travels with his
chariot that they call the "Blossom." He earned it by his penances.
Now I am a Brahman, and though I never performed any penances,
I travel with another sort of a blossom--a woman of the town.

_Maid._ Sir, will you inspect our gateway.

_Maitreya._ [_Gazes admiringly._] It ha