Kala Udayin enters and bows to Anatha Pindika.
A. You want to see the Blessed One? I will call him.
Anatha Pindika exit.
K. [Alone] This is the place where Prince Siddhattha lives! Indeed a most delightful spot and more pleasant than many a royal palace. And how the people speak of him! They call him the Blessed One, the Buddha, the Tathagata, the Sakyamuni, the great Sage. The wealthiest man of Kosala has bought these extensive and most beautiful grounds and presented them to the brotherhood of his disciples, so that the Buddha would stay here from time to time, and that the people of the city would have him for their guest.
Buddha accompanied by Anatha Pindika comes in. He is followed by two disciples. The Buddha sits down on the seat on the platform, having on either hand one of his disciples. Anatha Pindika stands below with clasped hands.
Kala Udayin sinks to his knees with clasped hands.
B. My friend, what brings you here?
K. A message from your royal father: He bade me tell you that he is growing old, and before he dies, he wants to see his son once more. Would you deign to accept his invitation?
B. Tell me, my friend, how is my father? Is old age truly telling on him?
K. Not yet so visibly, but he worries much.