] But
stay, if I introduce myself in this manner, they will know me to be the
King. Be it so, I will accost them, nevertheless.

SAKOONTALA [_moving a step or two further off_].--What! it still
persists in following me.

KING [_advancing hastily_].--When mighty Puru's offspring sways the
earth,
And o'er the wayward holds his threatening rod,
Who dares molest the gentle maids that keep
Their holy vigils here in Kanwa's grove?

[_All look at the King, and are embarrassed_.

ANASUYA.--Kind Sir, no outrage has been committed; only our dear friend
here was teased by the attacks of a troublesome bee.
[_Points to Sakoontala_.

KING [_turning to Sakoontala_].--I trust all is well with your
devotional rites?

[_Sakoontala stands confused and silent_.

ANASUYA.--All is well, indeed, now that we are honored by the reception
of a distinguished guest. Dear Sakoontala, go, bring from the hermitage
an offering of flowers, rice, and fruit. This water that we have brought
with us will serve to bathe our guest's feet.

KING.--The rites of hospitality are already performed; your truly kind
words are the best offering I can receive.

PRIYAMVADA.--At least be good enough, gentle Sir, to sit down awhile,
and rest yourself on this seat shaded by the leaves of the Sapta-parna
tree.

KING.--You, too, must all be fatigued by your employment.

ANASUYA.--Dear Sakoontala, there is no impropriety in our sitting by the
side of our guest: come, let us sit down here.

[_All sit down together_.

SAKOONTALA [_aside_].--How is it that the sight of this man has made me
sensible of emotions inconsistent with religious vows?

KING [_gazing at them all by turns_].--How charmingly your friendship is
in keeping with the equality of your ages and appearance!

PRIYAMVADA [_aside to Anasuya_].--Who can this person be, whose lively
yet dignified manner, and polite conversation, bespeak him a man of high
rank?

ANASUYA.--I, too, my dear, am very curious to know. I will ask him
myself. [_Aloud_]. Your kind words, noble Sir, fill me with confidence,
and prompt me to inquire of what regal family our noble guest is the
ornament? what country is now mourning his absence? and what induced a
person so delicately nurtured to expose himself to the fatigue of
visiting this grove of penance?

SAKOONTALA [_aside_].--Be not troubled, O my heart, Anasuya is giving
utterance to thy thoughts.

KING [_asid