King. I am rebuked.
Shakuntala. I was not thinking of your Majesty. I was accusing fate.
King. Why accuse a fate that brings what you desire?
Shakuntala. Why not accuse a fate that robs me of self-control and tempts me with the virtues of another?
King (to himself).
Though deeply longing, maids are coy
And bid their wooers wait;
Though eager for united joy
In love, they hesitate.Love cannot torture them, nor move
Their hearts to sudden mating;
Perhaps they even torture love
By their procrastinating.
(SHAKUNTALA moves away.)
King. Why should I not have my way? (He approaches and seizes her dress.)
Shakuntala. Oh, sir! Be a gentleman. There are hermits wandering about.
King. Do not fear your family, beautiful Shakuntala. Father Kanva knows the holy law. He will not regret it.