[_Smiling_.

Great Prince, hear on what errand Indra sent me into your
presence.

KING.

I am all attention.

MATALI.

There is a race of giants, the descendants of Kalanemi[103], whom
the gods find it difficult to subdue.

KING.

So I have already heard from Narada[104].

MATALI.

Heaven's mighty lord, who deigns to call thee 'friend,'
Appoints thee to the post of highest honour,
As leader of his armies; and commits
The subjugation of this giant brood
To thy resistless arms, e'en as the sun
Leaves the pale moon to dissipate the darkness.

Let your Majesty, therefore, ascend at once the celestial car of
Indra; and, grasping your arms, advance to victory.

KING.

The mighty Indra honours me too highly by such a mark of
distinction. But tell me, what made you act thus towards my poor
friend Ma[T.]Havya?

MATALI.

I will tell you. Perceiving that your Majesty's
spirit was completely broken by some distress of mind
under which you were labouring, I determined to
rouse your energies by moving you to anger. Because
To light a flame, we need but stir the embers;
The cobra, when incensed, extends his head
And springs upon his foe; the bravest men
Display their courage only when provoked.

KING. [_Aside to_ MA[T.]HAVYA.

My dear Ma[T.]Havya, the commands of the great Indra must not be
left unfulfilled. Go you and acquaint my minister, Pi[S']una, with
what has happened, and say to him from me:--

Dushyanta to thy care confides his realm--
Protect with all the vigour of thy mind
The interests of his people; while his bow
Is braced against the enemies of heaven.

MA[T.]HAVYA.
I obey. [_Exit_.

MATALI

Ascend, illustrious Prince.

[_The_ KING _ascends the car_.

[_Exeunt_.

* * * * *

ACT VII.

SCENE.--_The Sky_.

_Enter_ KING DUSHYANTA _and_ MATALI _in the car of Indra, moving
in the air_.

KING.

My good Matali, it appears to me incredible that I can merit such
a mark of distinction for having simply fulfilled the behests of
the great Indra.

MATALI. [_Smiling_.

Great Prince, it seems to me that neither of you is satisfied
with himself.

You underrate the serv