Great King, compose yourself.
SÁNUMATÍ. [Aside.
Alas! alas! though a bright light is shining near him, he is involved in the blackest darkness, by reason of the veil that obscures his sight. I will now reveal all, and put an end to his misery. But no; I heard the mother of the great Indra[100], when she was consoling [S']akoontalá, say that the gods will soon bring about a joyful union between husband and wife, being eager for the sacrifice which will be celebrated in their honour on the occasion. I must not anticipate the happy moment, but will return at once to my dear friend and cheer her with an account of what I have seen and heard. [Rises aloft and disappears.
A VOICE BEHIND THE SCENES.
Help! help! to the rescue!
KING.
[Recovering himself. Listening.
Ha! I heard a cry of distress, and in Má[t.]havya's voice too. What ho there!
VETRAVATÍ. [Entering.
Your friend is in danger; save him, great King.