KING.—Do you really mean to assert that I ever married this lady?
ŚAKOONTALÁ [despondingly. Aside].—O my heart, thy worst misgivings are confirmed.
ŚÁRNGARAVA.—Is it becoming in a monarch to depart from the rules of justice, because he repents of his engagements?
KING.—I cannot answer a question which is based on a mere fabrication.
SÁRNGARAVA.—Such inconstancy is fortunately not common, excepting in men intoxicated by power.
KING.—Is that remark aimed at me?
GAUTAMÍ.—Be not ashamed, my daughter. Let me remove thy veil for a little space. Thy husband will then recognize thee. [Removes her veil.
KING [gazing at Śakoontalá. Aside].—What charms are here revealed before mine eyes!
Truly no blemish mars the symmetry
Of that fair form; yet can I ne'er believe
She is my wedded wife; and like a bee
That circles round the flower whose nectared cup
Teems with the dew of morning, I must pause
Ere eagerly I taste the proffered sweetness.
[Remains wrapped in thought.