Though many queens divide my court,
But two support the throne;
Your friend will find a rival in
The sea-girt earth alone.
The two friends. We are content. (SHAKUNTALA betrays her joy.) Priyamvada (aside to ANUSUYA). Look, Anusuya! See how the dear girl's life is coming back moment by moment—just like a peahen in summer when the first rainy breezes come.
Shakuntala. You must please ask the king's pardon for the rude things we said when we were talking together.
The two friends (smiling). Anybody who says it was rude, may ask his pardon. Nobody else feels guilty.
Shakuntala. Your Majesty, pray forgive what we said when we did not know that you were present. I am afraid that we say a great many things behind a person's back.
King (smiling).
Your fault is pardoned if I may
Relieve my weariness
By sitting on the flower-strewn couch
Your fevered members press.
Priyamvada. But that will not be enough to satisfy him.
Shakuntala (feigning anger). Stop! You are a rude girl. You make fun of me when I am in this condition.
Anusuya (looking out of the arbour). Priyamvada, there is a little fawn, looking all about him. He has probably lost his mother and is trying to find her. I am going to help him.