SECOND SCENE.
[Bimbisara's court at Rajagaha]
Present: King Bimbisara (Bb.), Visakha (V), and Nagadeva (N).
V. The Sakyas will make a hard fight, great King, and the war will cost blood. These northern settlers are taller and stronger than other races and possess the courage of the inhabitants of their former frigid homes. It would be easier to take possession of their state if I married Princess Yasodhara and gradually assumed the government under your protection. Your mighty friendship would support me on the throne and you could rule through me.
Bb. That sounds acceptable, but in the meantime, I prepare for war.
V. Even in war I shall be of service to you. I can lead your army where it will not meet with resistance, and I know the names of those who are dissatisfied. Many could be induced to join your forces; and I can betray the very person of the raja into your hands.
Bb. Nodding kindly to Visakha, then turning to Nagadeva.
Is our kingdom in readiness?
N. Great King, it is. General Siha stands in the field with a strong force ready to strike. There are another fifty thousand within call to make a sudden dash upon any of our neighbors should they dare come to the aid of Sakya. Our treasury is well filled, and the people of Magadha are prosperous. We could stand even a protracted war far better than any other state in India.
Bb. The time seems favorable; the risk is small, and the spoil will be great. Convene my generals in the assembly hall.