Anusuya. Then in the lovely spring-time he saw her intoxicating beauty—(She stops in embarrassment.)
King. The rest is plain. Surely, she is the daughter of the nymph.
Anusuya. Yes.
King. It is as it should be.
To beauty such as this
No woman could give birth;
The quivering lightning flash
Is not a child of earth.
(SHAKUNTALA hangs her head in confusion.) King (to himself). Ah, my wishes become hopes.
Priyamvada (looking with a smile at SHAKUNTALA). Sir, it seems as if you had more to say. (SHAKUNTALA threatens her friend with her finger.)
King. You are right. Your pious life interests me, and I have another question.
Priyamvada. Do not hesitate. We hermit people stand ready to answer all demands.
King. My question is this: