is sanction to the
marriage which your Majesty contracted with this lady, his
daughter, privately and by mutual agreement. Because,

By us thou art esteemed the most illustrious
Of noble husbands; and [S']akoontala,
Virtue herself in human form revealed.
Great Brahma hath in equal yoke united
A bride unto a husband worthy of her;
Henceforth let none make blasphemous complaint
That he is pleased with ill-assorted unions[81].

Since, therefore, she expects soon to be the mother of thy child,
receive her into thy palace, that she may perform, in conjunction
with thee, the ceremonies prescribed by religion on such an
occasion.

GAUTAMI.

So please your Majesty, I would add a few words; but why should
I intrude my sentiments when an opportunity of speaking my mind
has never been allowed me?

She took no counsel with her kindred; thou
Didst not confer with thine, but all alone
Didst solemnize thy nuptials with thy wife.
Together, then, hold converse; let us leave you.

[S']AKOONTALA [_Aside_.

Ah! how I tremble for my lord's reply.

KING.

What strange proposal is this?

[S']AKOONTALA [_Aside_.

His words are like fire to me.

[S']ARNGARAVA

What do I hear? Dost thou, then, hesitate? Monarch, thou art well
acquainted with the ways of the world, and knowest that

A wife, however virtuous and discreet,
If she live separate from her wedded lord,
Though under shelter of her parent's roof,
Is marked for vile suspicion. Let her dwell
Beside her husband, though he hold her not
In his affection. So her kinsmen will it.

KING.

Do you really mean to assert that I ever married
this lady?

[S']AKOONTALA. [_Despondingly. Aside_.

O my heart, thy worst misgivings are confirmed.

[S']ARNGARAVA.

Is it becoming in a monarch to depart from the rules of justice,
because he repents of his engagements?

KING.

I cannot answer a question which is based on a mere fabrication.

[S']ARNGARAVA.

Such inconstancy is fortunately not common, except in men
intoxicated by power.

KING.

Is that remark aimed at me?

GAUTAMI.

Be not ashamed, my daughter. Let me remove thy veil for a little
space. Thy husband will then recognize thee.

[_Removes her veil_.

KING.

[_Gazing at_ [S']AK