[_With a smile_.]

Now, [S']akoontalá, my love, you are at liberty to retire, thanks
to the intercession of this noble stranger, or rather of this
mighty prince.

[S']AKOONTALÁ. [_Aside_.

My movements are no longer under my own control.

[_Aloud_.

Pray, what authority have you over me, either to send me away or
keep me back?

KING. [_Gazing at_ [S']AKOONTALÁ. _Aside_.

Would I could ascertain whether she is affected towards me as I
am towards her! At any rate, my hopes are free to indulge
themselves. Because,

Although she mingles not her words with mine,
Yet doth her listening ear drink in my speech;
Although her eye shrinks from my ardent gaze,
No form but mine attracts its timid glances.

A VOICE BEHIND THE SCENES.

O hermits, be ready to protect the animals belonging to our
hermitage. King Dushyanta, amusing himself with hunting, is near