Page:Little Clay Cart (Ryder 1905).djvu/102

66 paid. Go then, enter the cart. But do not forget me.

Sharvilaka. Heaven bless you! and you, Madanikā,

Turn upon her a happy face,

And hail with bended head the grace

That gives you now the name of wife,

As a veil to keep you safe through life.

[He enters the bullock-cart with Madanikā, and starts away.]

A voice behind 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 Pālaka 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 Pālaka 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.

Good! I will get out. [He does so.]

Madanikā. [''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.

Madanikā. If you desire it, dear. But dear, you must be very careful.