[39] A marriage without the usual ceremonies is called Gandharva. It was
supposed to be the form of marriage prevalent among the nymphs of
Indra's heaven.
PRELUDE TO ACT FOURTH
Scene.--The Garden of the Hermitage
_Enter Priyamvada and Anasuya in the act of gathering flowers_.
ANASUYA.--Although, dear Priyamvada, it rejoices my heart to think that
Sakoontala has been happily united to a husband in every respect worthy
of her, by the form of marriage prevalent among Indra's celestial
musicians, nevertheless, I cannot help feeling somewhat uneasy in my
mind.
PRIYAMVADA.--How so?
ANASUYA.--You know that the pious King was gratefully dismissed by the
hermits on the successful termination of their sacrificial rites. He has
now returned to his capital, leaving Sakoontala under our care; and it
may be doubted whether, in the society of his royal consorts, he will
not forget all that has taken place in this hermitage of ours.
PRIYAMVADA.--On that score be at ease. Persons of his noble nature are
not so destitute of all honorable feeling. I confess, however, that
there is one point about which I am rather anxious.
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