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BUREAUCRAT

Excuse me?

VAISYA

My brother means that we are surprised. What is the reason for this sudden relief, as you call it? Who is behind it? What does it consist of?

BUREAUCRAT

All I know is the big boss' daughter-in-law got it into her head her father was Indian, that he lived here, and that his name was Mockser. We got instructions to put Mockser on our payroll without hiring him, to see that he's decently fed right away, and to find him a house in a good area. It sounds crazy to me too, but we just do what we're told. If you want more precise information, you'll have to communicate with the central office.

INDIO

(To Vaisya)

He'll make some filthy use of us. You shouldn't trust any of them, Vaisya.

BUREAUCRAT

Excuse me. I'll let my assistants know I've located K. Mockser. I also sent for some food.

(Exit Bureaucrat)

VAISYA

You are sometimes as small as they!

INDIO

Why do you always seek excuses for them? They have money and power; they don't need to be justified by you.

VAISYA

The whole village is going to be developed, houses and schools are coming, and you call it "mere palliative."