CALIPH. This Ali Cogia presented a petition to me to-day, and I promised to hear him to-morrow. Would that I could know the truth of the matter that I may give a just sentence!
[They arrive at the court where several CHILDREN are playing in the moonlight. The Caliph stops to watch them.]
FIRST CHILD. Let us play that the Cauzee is trying the Merchant.
SECOND CHILD (joyfully). Yes, yes!
THIRD CHILD (joyfully). Yes, yes!
ALL CHILDREN (clapping their hands). Yes, yes!
CALIPH (softly to Vizier). Let us sit on this bench. I would know what these children are playing.
[They sit, but are not seen by children.]
FIRST CHILD (taking his seat with great dignity). I choose to be the Cauzee!
SECOND CHILD (taking his place behind the Cauzee). I choose to be the Officer!