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

[_Sakoontala 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 Sakoontala, and then turning
towards the King_].--You seem desirous, Sir, of asking something
further.

[_Sakoontala 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 vieing 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.

SAKOONTALA [_pretending anger_].--Anasuya, I shall leave you.

ANASUYA.--Why so?

SAKOONTALA.--That I may go and report this impertinent Priyamvada to the
venerable matron, Gautami.[34]

ANASUYA.--Surely, dear friend, it would not be right to leave a
distinguished guest before he has received the rights of hospitality,
and quit his presence in this wilful manner.

[_Sakoontala, without answering a word, moves away_.

KING [_making a movement to arrest her departure, but checking himself.
Aside_].--Ah! a lover's feelings betray themselves by his gestures.
When I would fain have stayed the maid, a sense
Of due decorum checked my bold design:
Though I have stirred not, yet my mien betrays
My eagerness to follow on her steps.

PRIYAMVADA [_holding Sakoontala back_].--Dear Sakoontala, it does not
become you to go away in this manner.

SAKOONTALA