Page 89 - Lavender-B-2

Now, read the play.

Characters

• Birbal: a minister in the court of Akbar

• King of Persia

• Akbar: Emperor of India

• Narrator

• Courtier

Narrator: Birbal was once invited by the King of Persia, a kingdom far
away from India. The king had heard many good things about Birbal

and he wanted to meet him. The people of Persia welcomed Birbal

warmly. They gave him the best food and drink they could offer. The
king showered him with many precious gifts.

Scene 1: Birbal in the court of the King of Persia

Courtier: Sir, how is the King of Persia different from King Akbar?

Birbal (turning to the King of

Persia): Your Majesty, you are like
the full moon but my king Akbar

is like the crescent moon.

King of Persia: I am elated to

hear your words, Birbal. I wish I
could have you as a minister in

my court!

courtier: a person who spends his time
in a king’s court
invited: asked someone to come to an
event
showered: gave a lot of something to
someone
precious: very expensive
crescent moon: the moon when it is less
than half
elated: very happy and excited

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