Of noble husbands; and Sakoontala
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.

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.

SAKOONTALA [_aside_].--Ah! how I tremble for my lord's reply.

KING.--What strange proposal is this?

SAKOONTALA [_aside_].--His words are fire to me.

SARNGARAVA.--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 mark 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?

SAKOONTALA [_despondingly. Aside_].--O my heart, thy worst misgivings
are confirmed.

SARNGARAVA.--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.

SARNGARAVA.--Such inconstancy is fortunately not common, excepting 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 Sakoontala. Aside_].--What charms are here revealed
before mine eyes!
Truly no blemish mars the symmetry
Of that fair form; yet can I ne'er believe
She is my wedded wife; and like a bee
That circles round the flower whose nectared cup
Teems with the dew of morning, I must pause
Ere eagerly I taste the proffered sweetness.
[_Remains wrapped in-thought._

WARDER.--How