THE PROLOGUE.
A Bráhmen pronounces the benediction.
Water was the first work of the Creator; and Fire receives the oblations ordained by law; the Sacrifice is performed with solemnity; the Two Lights of heaven distinguish time; the subtil Ether, which is the vehicle of sound, pervades the universe; the Earth is the natural parent of all increase; and by Air all things breathing are animated: may I'SA, the God of Nature, apparent in these eight forms, bless and sustain you!
The Manager enters.
Man. What occasion is there for a long speech?—[Looking- towards the dressing-room]—When your decorations, Madam, are completed, be pleased to come forward.
An Actress enters.
Actr. I attend, Sir.—What are your commands?
Man. This, Madam, is the numerous and polite assembly of the famed Hero, our king Vicramáditya, the patron of every delightful art; and before this audience we must do justice to a new production of Cálidás, a dramatick piece,
