[36] Deign, therefore,
accompanied by your charioteer, to take up your abode in our hermitage
for a few days.
KING.--I am honored by your invitation.
MATHAVYA [_aside_].--Most opportune and convenient, certainly!
KING [_smiling_].--Ho! there, Raivataka! Tell the charioteer from me to
bring round the chariot with my bow.
WARDER.--I will, Sire. [_Exit._
BOTH THE HERMITS [_joyfully_].--Well it becomes the King by acts of
grace
To emulate the virtues of his race.
Such acts thy lofty destiny attest;
Thy mission is to succor the distressed.
KING [_bowing to the Hermits_].--Go first, reverend Sirs, I will follow
you immediately.
BOTH THE HERMITS.--May victory attend you! [_Exeunt._
KING.--My dear Mathavya, are you not full of longing to see Sakoontala?
MATHAVYA.--To tell you the truth, though I was just now brimful of
desire to see her, I have not a drop left since this piece of news about
the demons.
KING.--Never fear; you shall keep close to me for protection.
MATHAVYA.--Well, you must be my guardian-angel, and act the part of a
very Vishnu[37] to me.
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