MIMOSA (_advancing_). I came with honorable presents in my hand----
SAKARA. Hai--you would give honey to eat!
MIMOSA (_drawing nearer, though avoiding box_). Nay, the small fox may borrow strength and wisdom from the powerful tiger. I came to sit humbly at thy feet----
SAKARA (_twanging bow, laughs_). Would foolish fox enter the tiger’s den? (_MIMOSA shrinks._) After the swallowing, scalding is forgotten. (_Turns to MIMOSA, who struggles to appear brave._) What think you, O Mimosa San, of poor, unworthy dwelling of the wise woman? Ignorantly speaking of bringing charms to one who makes charms--charms of long life, happiness, love, lasting beauty!
MIMOSA. I rob you, O Sakara, of honorable time. I----
SAKARA (_beckons MIMOSA C._). Stay, O Mimosa, foolish Mimosa. You came to learn wisdom sitting at the foot of Sakara. Condescend to remain. O Mimosa San, if you would be wise, honorably exalted, all good shall come from the doing of one little thing----
MIMOSA. Deign to name the very little thing, O most honorable?
SAKARA. A very little thing! Condescend to sit, O Mimosa. First with honorable kindness answer, have your eyes seen excellent venerated lotus-flower in the mud?
MIMOSA (_with astonishment_). Never, O Sakara; the sacred flower?
SAKARA (_speaking impressively_). Do my bidding and you shall never be trampled like a dead, forgotten flower. Neither shall you grow old, and love will never leave you! Death by drowning, or long, pain-giving illness shall not be yours. At a venerated age you shall fall asleep in the embracing arms of the gods. I know, O Mimosa San, that the most worshipful Toko has fastened the sprig of lime to thy father’s door and woos thee; the gods, the all-powerful, shall smile upon him also. (_Rises slowly._) The terrible destroying earthquake, the swift-moving fire shall never touch you! Your joys shall last like the pine trees. You shall remain beautiful as the cherry blossom and as spotless. (_Stands with folded arms looking at MIMOSA._)
MIMOSA. What can I all unworthy do to gain exalted happiness?
SAKARA (_walking forward, keeping face from MIMOSA_). It is a very little thing, O Mimosa. You have come with courteous words to Sakara. Thy heart is not all folly, for the magnet can attract iron, but not stone. Do as I bid, beloved Japan shall venerate thee. Be honorable friend of wise, powerful Sakara, and you shall be protected by exalted gods, and the name of O Mimosa San shall _live_ when all else perishes. (_Crosses R._)