_Bishu_
The play of the fields is ended now, and the field-master is taking
the ripe corn home. Come on, Guards, let’s not linger any more.
(_Sings_)
_Mow the corn of the last harvest, bind it in sheaves.
The remainder, let it return as dust unto the dust._
[_They go._
(_The Governor and a Doctor come in._)
_Doctor_
I’ve seen him. I find the King dissatisfied with himself. That’s a
disease, not of the body, but of the mind.
_Governor_
What’s the remedy?
_Doctor_
A big shock. Try and get up a big row, either with some other king,
or amongst the people themselves!
_Governor_
In other words, unless he is allowed to harm some one else, he will
harm himself?
_Doctor_
These big men are big babies. They must have plenty of play. When
they get tired of one game, if you don’t supply them with another,
they’ll break their toys. But be prepared, Governor, there isn’t much
time to lose.
_Governor_
I’ve read the signs long ago, and completed all arrangements. But
what a pity! Just when our golden city has amassed wealth such as it
never had before, to have to--never mind, you may go--I’ll think it
over.
[_Doctor goes._
(_A Headman comes in._)
_Headman_
Did Your Lordship send for me? I am the Headman of Parish J.
_Governor_
You are No. 321, aren’t you?
_Headman_
Marvellous! Your Lordship remembers even my unworthy self!
_Governor_
My wife will be driving out to-day. The post will be changed near
your village, and you must see that she’s not detained.
_Headman_
There’s a plague on the cattle of our parish, and not a single ox can
be had to draw the car. Never mind, we can press the diggers into
service.
_Governor_
You know where you have to take her? To the garden-house, where the
feast of the Flag-worship is to be held.
_Headman_
I’ll see to it at once, but let me tell you one thing before I go.
That 69 Ng, whom they call mad Bishu,--it’s high time to cure his
madness.
_Governor_
Why, how does he annoy you?
_Headman_
Not so much by what he says or does, as by what he implies.
_Governor_
There’s no need to worry about him any further. You understand!
_Headman_
Really! That’s good news, indeed! Another thing. That 47 V, he’s
rather too friendly with 69 Ng.
_Governor_