BOTH THE HERMITS [approaching].—Victory to the King!
KING [rising from his seat].—Hail to you both!
BOTH THE HERMITS.—Heaven bless your Majesty!
[They offer fruits.
KING [respectfully receiving the offering].—Tell me, I pray you, the object of your visit.
BOTH THE HERMITS.—The inhabitants of the hermitage having heard of your Majesty's sojourn in our neighborhood, make this humble petition.
KING.—What are their commands?
BOTH THE HERMITS.—In the absence of our Superior, the great Sage Kanwa, evil demons are disturbing our sacrificial rites.[[36]] Deign, therefore, accompanied by your charioteer, to take up your abode in our hermitage for a few days.
KING.—I am honored by your invitation.
MÁTHAVYA [aside].—Most opportune and convenient, certainly!