You surely ought to give the preference to the present Summer season[5] that has but recently commenced, a season so rich in enjoyment. For now
Unceasing are the charms of halcyon days,
When the cool bath exhilarates the frame;
When sylvan gales are laden with the scent
Of fragrant Pátalas[6]; when soothing sleep
Creeps softly on beneath the deepening shade;
And when, at last, the dulcet calm of eve
Entrancing steals o'er every yielding sense.
ACTRESS.
I will:—
[Sings.]
Fond maids, the chosen of their hearts to please,
Entwine their ears with sweet [S']irísha flowers[7],
Whose fragrant lips attract the kiss of bees
That softly murmur through the summer hours.
STAGE-MANAGER.
Charmingly sung! The audience are motionless as statues, their souls riveted by the enchanting strain. What subject shall we select for representation, that we may ensure a continuance of their favour?
ACTRESS.
Why not the same, Sir, announced by you at first? Let the drama called '[S']akoontalá; or, the Lost Ring,' be the subject of our dramatic performance.