GAUTAMÍ.
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 [S']AKOONTALÁ. 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 admirably does our royal master's behaviour prove his regard for justice! Who else would hesitate for a moment when good fortune offered for his acceptance a form of such rare beauty?