The Indian Woman (L'Indienne)

SCENE VIII.

(A march during which the Priests arrive in order; they walk around the Theater; the High Priest, successor to Caleb, is at their head: the Slaves join them & carry, some urns, others braziers, others vases, torches, the sacred wood, &c. The Priests receive from the hands of Mendès the ceremonial clothes, with which they must adorn Caleb, & share them among themselves.)

(After the march, & the Priests have lined up on the wings of the Theater & the Slaves at the back.)

Illustrious & divine Brahmine Brahmin, twelve times Holy & twelve times illuminated, I greet you in the name of the twelve Signs of the Zodiac & the twelve revolutions of the Moon.

I return it to you twelve times; but it seems to me that you are arriving early.

The Sun is ready to set, & we are reaching the twelfth hour of the day.

Besides, a little sooner, a little later, that does not matter; & when you find yourself in the same situation, I hope that they do not make you wait any longer.

By the twelve houses of the Sun, that will not be soon, & for the punishment of my soul, I hope to live a good number of years yet.

A theatrical procession of priests and slaves arrives, led by the High Priest, who prepares to lead Caleb to his sacrifice while engaging in a ritualistic exchange of greetings.