titude of the figures is really charming. They
stand out in such bold relief that the eye is quite deceived.

SANUMATI [_aside_].--A most artistic performance! I admire the King's
skill, and could almost believe that Sakoontala herself was before me.

KING.--I own 'tis not amiss, though it portrays
But feebly her angelic loveliness.
Aught less than perfect is depicted falsely,
And fancy must supply the imperfection.

SANUMATI [_aside_].--A very just remark from a modest man, whose
affection is exaggerated by the keenness of his remorse.

MATHAVYA.--Tell me--I see three female figures drawn on the canvas, and
all of them beautiful; which of the three is her Majesty, Sakoontala?

SANUMATI [_aside_].--If he cannot distinguish her from the others, the
simpleton might as well have no eyes in his head.

KING.--Which should you imagine to be intended for her?

MATHAVYA.--She who is leaning, apparently a little tired, against the
stem of that mango-tree, the tender leaves of which glitter with the
water she has poured upon them. Her arms are gracefully extended; her
face is somewhat flushed with the heat; and a few flowers have escaped
from her hair, which has become unfastened, and hangs in loose tresses
about her neck. That must be the queen Sakoontala, and the others, I
presume, are her two attendants.

KING.--I congratulate you on your discernment. Behold the proof of my
passion;
My finger, burning with the glow of love,
Has left its impress on the painted tablet;
While here and there, alas! a scalding tear
Has fallen on the cheek and dimmed its brightness.
Chaturika, the garden in the background of the picture is
only half-painted. Go, fetch the brush that I may finish it.

CHATURIKA.--Worthy Mathavya, have the kindness to hold the picture until
I return.

KING.--Nay, I will hold it myself.
[_Takes the picture. Exit Chaturika_.

KING.--My loved one came but lately to my presence
And offered me herself, but in my folly
I spurned the gift, and now I fondly cling
To her mere image; even as a madman
Would pass the waters of the gushing stream,
And thirst for airy vapors of the desert.

MATHAVYA [_aside_].--He has been fool enough to forego the reality for
the semblance, the substance for the shadow. [_Aloud._] Tell us, I pray,
what else remains to be painted.

SANUMATI [_aside_].--He longs, no doubt, to delineate some favorite spot
where my d