[Exit]
AMAL. It would be splendid to have a letter from the King every
day. I'll read them at the window. But, oh! I can't read
writing. Who'll read them out to me, I wonder! Auntie reads her
R?mayana; she may know the King's writing. If no one will, then
I must keep them carefully and read them when I'm grown up. But
if the postman can't find me? Headman, Mr. Headman, may I have a
word with you?
HEADMAN. Who is yelling after me on the highway? Oh, you
wretched monkey!
AMAL. You're the headman. Everybody minds you.
HEADMAN [Looking pleased] Yes, oh yes, they do! They must!
AMAL. Do the King's postmen listen to you?
HEADMAN. They've got to. By Jove, I'd like to see--
AMAL. Will you tell the postman it's Amal who sits by the window
here?
HEADMAN. What's the good of that?
AMAL. In case there's a letter for me.
HEADMAN. A letter for you! Whoever's going to write to you?
AMAL. If the King does.
HEADMAN. Ha! ha! What an uncommon little fellow you are! Ha!
ha! the King indeed, aren't you his bosom friend, eh! You
haven't met for a long while and the King is pining, I am sure.
Wait till to-morrow and you'll have your letter.
AMAL. Say, Headman, why do you speak to me in that tone of
voice? Are you cross?
HEADMAN.
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