KING.—­Such, indeed, is the very meaning of my title—­“Defender of the Just.”  I trust the venerable Kanwa is in good health.  The world is interested in his well-being.

HERMITS.—­Holy men have health and prosperity in their own power.  He bade us greet your Majesty, and, after kind inquiries, deliver this message.

KING.—­Let me hear his commands.

SARNGARAVA.—­He bade us say that he feels happy in giving his sanction
to the marriage which your Majesty contracted with this lady, his
daughter, privately and by mutual agreement.  Because
    By us thou art esteemed the most illustrious
    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.