[All look at the King, and are embarrassed.
ANASÚYÁ.—Kind Sir, no outrage has been committed; only our dear friend here was teased by the attacks of a troublesome bee.
[Points to Śakoontalá.
KING [turning to Śakoontalá].—I trust all is well with your devotional rites?
[Śakoontalá stands confused and silent.
ANASÚYÁ.—All is well, indeed, now that we are honored by the reception of a distinguished guest. Dear Śakoontalá, go, bring from the hermitage an offering of flowers, rice, and fruit. This water that we have brought with us will serve to bathe our guest's feet.
KING.—The rites of hospitality are already performed; your truly kind words are the best offering I can receive.
PRIYAMVADÁ.—At least be good enough, gentle Sir, to sit down awhile, and rest yourself on this seat shaded by the leaves of the Sapta-parna tree.
KING.—You, too, must all be fatigued by your employment.
ANASÚYÁ.—Dear Śakoontalá, there is no impropriety in our sitting by the side of our guest: come, let us sit down here.