B. [Addressing himself to the servant] Let them come in, [turning to K.] Kala Udayin, bring my father greetings, and say that I shall come.
Kala Udayin exit.
A number of men, the embassy of King Bimbisara, led by Nagadeva, most gorgeously dressed, file in. They let themselves down on one knee, clasp their hands and rise again.
N. Most gracious Lord, all-wise and blessed Buddha,
Our noble sov'reign bids me tender you
His most respectful greetings, and he hopes
That you return and visit Rajagaha,
For he is very anxious to be honored
By your auspicious presence in his kingdom.
B. My Lords, express to your most mighty King
That the Tathagata can not accept
This friendly invitation, for he will
Start for his home, the country of the Sakyas,
To see his aged father and his kin.
If war or other ills befall his people,
He wants to live, if need be, die with them.
N. Lord Buddha, speak a word of truth to us,
For I'm aware thou art omniscient.
Our royal master wants to hear from thee.
B. All bodily existence passeth by
For it is compound and will be dissolved;
But there is Law; it is the Uncreate,
It is th' Etern, which is without beginning
And without end. That must our refuge be.
He who relies on the Impermanent,
And, being strong, attempts to crush the weak,
Will soon break down. This is the law of deeds,
For as we sow, such will our harvest be.
Rely on Truth, the Uncreate, th' Etern,
Be guided by the rule of Righteousness.
This is my message to the King, your Lord,
And may he be advised to rule his country
With love of peace, with goodness, and with wisdom.
My blessing be on him and on his people.
They kneel, clasp their hands, circumambulate the Buddha and file out.
Jeta returns in excitement.
J. The war is on! King Bimbisara's army
Is building bridges to attack the Sakyas.
[Curtain. Trumpet signals, military music.]
FOURTH INTERLUDE.
Living Pictures Accompanied by Appropriate Music.