KING.
Who dares insult the worthy Má[t.]havya?
VETRAVATÍ.
Some evil demon, invisible to human eyes, has seized him, and carried him to one of the turrets of the Palace of Clouds.
KING. [Rising.
Impossible! Have evil spirits power over my subjects,
even in nay private apartments? Well, well;—
Daily I seem, less able to avert
Misfortune from myself, and o'er my actions
Less competent to exercise control;
How can I then direct my subjects' ways,
Or shelter them from tyranny and wrong?
A VOICE BEHIND THE SCENES.
Halloo there! my dear friend; help! help!
KING. [Advancing with rapid strides.
Fear nothing—