ANASUYA.--The hermits, then, and all the members of our religious
society have now a guardian.
[_Sakoontala gazes bashfully at the King_.
PRIYAMVADA AND ANASUYA [_perceiving the state of her feelings, and of
the King's. Aside to Sakoontala_].--Dear Sakoontala, if father Kanwa
were but at home to-day------
SAKOONTALA [_angrily_].--What if he were?
PRIYAMVADA AND ANASUYA.--He would honor this our distinguished guest
with an offering of the most precious of his possessions.
SAKOONTALA.--Go to! you have some silly idea in your minds. I will not
listen to such remarks.
KING.--May I be allowed, in my turn, to ask you maidens a few
particulars respecting your friend?
PRIYAMVADA AND ANASUYA.--Your request, Sir, is an honor.
KING.--The sage Kanwa lives in the constant practice of austerities.
How, then, can this friend of yours be called his daughter?
ANASUYA.--I will explain to you, Sir. You have heard of an illustrious
sage of regal caste, Viswamitra, whose family name is Kausika.
KING.--I have.
ANASUYA.--Know that he is the real father of our friend.
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