Sakara. Hai—you would give honey to eat!
Mimosa (drawing nearer, though avoiding box). Nay, the small fox may borrow strength and wisdom from the powerful tiger. I came to sit humbly at thy feet——
Sakara (twanging bow, laughs). Would foolish fox enter the tiger’s den? (Mimosa shrinks.) After the swallowing, scalding is forgotten. (Turns to Mimosa, who struggles to appear brave.) What think you, O Mimosa San, of poor, unworthy dwelling of the wise woman? Ignorantly speaking of bringing charms to one who makes charms—charms of long life, happiness, love, lasting beauty!
Mimosa. I rob you, O Sakara, of honorable time. I——
Sakara (beckons Mimosa C.). Stay, O Mimosa, foolish Mimosa. You came to learn wisdom sitting at the foot of Sakara. Condescend to remain. O Mimosa San, if you would be wise, honorably exalted, all good shall come from the doing of one little thing——
Mimosa. Deign to name the very little thing, O most honorable?
Sakara. A very little thing! Condescend to sit, O Mimosa. First with honorable kindness answer, have your eyes seen excellent venerated lotus-flower in the mud?
Mimosa (with astonishment). Never, O Sakara; the sacred flower?
Sakara (speaking impressively). Do my bidding and you shall never be trampled like a dead, forgotten flower. Neither shall you grow old, and love will never leave you! Death by drowning, or long, pain-giving illness shall not be yours. At a venerated age you shall fall asleep in the embracing arms of the gods. I know, O Mimosa San, that the most worshipful Toko has fastened the sprig of lime to thy father’s door and woos thee; the gods, the all-powerful, shall smile upon him also. (Rises slowly.) The terrible destroying earthquake, the swift-moving fire shall never touch you! Your joys shall last like the pine trees. You shall remain beautiful as the cherry blossom and as spotless. (Stands with folded arms looking at Mimosa.)
Mimosa. What can I all unworthy do to gain exalted happiness?