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skimming the ground, and rising high in the air! and now so rapid is his flight that he is scarce discernible!

Char. The ground was uneven, and the horses were checked in their course. He has taken advantage of our delay. It is level now, and we may easily overtake him.

Dushm. Loosen the reins.

Char. As the king commands.—[He drives the car first at full speed, and then gently.]—He could not escape. The horses were not even touched by the clouds of dust which they raised; they tossed their manes, erected their ears, and rather glided than galloped over the smooth plain.

Dushm. They soon outran the swift antelope.—Objects which, from their distance, appeared minute, presently became larger: what was really divided seemed united, as we passed; and what was in truth bent, seemed straight. So swift was the motion of the wheels, that nothing, for many moments, was either distant or near. [''He fixes an arrow in his bowstring. Behind the scenes''.] He must not be slain. This antelope, O King, has an asylum in our forest; he must not be slain.

Char. [Listening and Looking.] Just as the animal presents a fair mark for your arrow, two hermits are advancing to interrupt your aim.

Dushm. Then stop the car.

Char. The king is obeyed. [He draws in the reins.