jealous[28] of the power which
the practice of excessive devotion confers on mortals.

ANASUYA.

Well, then, it happened that Vi[s']wamitra, gazing on the
bewitching beauty of that nymph at a season when, spring being in
its glory--

[_Stops short, and appears confused_.

KING.

The rest may be easily divined. [S']akoontala, then, is the
offspring of the nymph.

ANASUYA.

Just so.

KING.

It is quite intelligible.

How would a mortal to such charms give birth?
The lightning's radiance flashes not from earth.

[[S']AKOONTALA _remains modestly seated with downcast eyes_.
_Aside_.]

And so my desire has really scope for its indulgence. Yet I am
still distracted by doubts, remembering the pleasantry of her
female companions respecting her wish for a husband.

PRIYAMVADA.

[_Looking with a smile at [S']AKOONTALA, and then turning towards
the KING.]

You seem desirous, Sir, of asking something further.

[[S']AKOONTALA _makes a chiding gesture with her finger_.

KING.

You conjecture truly. I am so eager to hear the particulars of
your friend's history, that I have still another question to ask.

PRIYAMVADA.

Scruple not to do so. Persons who lead the life of hermits may be
questioned unreservedly.

KING.

I wish to ascertain one point respecting your friend.

Will she be bound by solitary vows
Opposed to love, till her espousals only?
Or ever dwell with these her cherished fawns,
Whose eyes, in lustre vying with her own,
Return her gaze of sisterly affection?

PRIYAMVADA.

Hitherto, Sir, she has been engaged in the practice of religious
duties, and has lived in subjection to her foster-father; but it
is now his fixed intention to give her away in marriage to a
husband worthy of her.

KING. [_Aside_.

His intention may be easily carried into effect.

Be hopeful, O my heart, thy harrowing doubts
Are past and gone; that which thou didst believe
To be as unapproachable as fire,
Is found a glittering gem that may be touched.

[S']AKOONTALA. [_Pretending anger_.

Anasuya, I shall leave you.

ANASUYA.

Why so?

[S']AKOONTALA.

That I may go and report this impertinent Priyamvada to the
venerable matron, Gautami[29].

AN