My mother
dreamed on the day I was born that the light of the moon shone on
her bosom, but was soon cast low to the earth.[1] I was just
eighteen years of age when chosen as an inhabitant of the imperial
palace; but the minister Maouyenshow, disappointed in the treasure
which he demanded on my account, disfigured my portrait in such a
manner as to keep me out of the Emperor's presence; and now I live
in neglected solitude. While at home, I learned a little music, and
could play a few airs on the lute. Thus sorrowing in the stillness
of midnight, let me practise one of my songs to dispel my griefs.
[_Begins to play on the lute_.
_Enter Emperor, attended by a Eunuch, carrying a light_.
EMPEROR. Since the beauties were selected to grace our palace,
we have not yet discovered a worthy object on whom to fix our
preference. Vexed and disappointed, we pass this day of leisure
roaming in search of her who may be destined for our imperial
choice. [_Hears the lute._] Is not that some lady's lute?
ATTENDANT. It is.--I hasten to advise her of your Majesty's
approach.
EMPEROR. No, hold! Keeper of the yellow gate, discover to
what part of our palace that lady pertains; and bid her approach our
presence; but beware lest you alarm her.
ATTENDANT [_approaches in the direction of the sound, and
speaks_].
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