ANASÚYÁ.—Kind Sir, we have heard it said that kings have many favorite consorts. You must not, then, by your behavior towards our dear friend, give her relations cause to sorrow for her.
KING.—Listen, gentle maiden, while in a few words I quiet your anxiety.
Though many beauteous forms my palace grace,
Henceforth two things alone will I esteem
The glory of my royal dynasty;—
My sea-girt realm, and this most lovely maid.
PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ.—We are satisfied by your assurances.
PRIYAMVADÁ [glancing on one side],—See, Anasúyá, there is our favorite little fawn running about in great distress, and turning its eyes in every direction as if looking for its mother; come, let us help the little thing to find her.
[Both move away.]
ŚAKOONTALÁ.—Dear friends, dear friends, leave me not alone and unprotected. Why need you both go?
PRIYAMVADÁ AND ANASÚYÁ.—Unprotected! when the Protector of the world is at your side.
[Exeunt.]
ŚAKOONTALÁ.—What! have they both really left me?