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dains; and they have now a message to deliver from their spiritual guide; let the king deign to hear it.

Dushm. [With reverence.] I am attentive.

Both Misras. [Extending their hands.] Victory attend thy banners!

Dushm. I respectfully greet you both.

Both. Blessings on our sovereign!

Dushm. Has your devotion been uninterrupted?

Sárn. How should our rites be disturbed, when thou art the preserver of all creatures? How, when the bright sun blazes, should darkness cover the world?

Dushm. [Aside.] The name of royalty produces, I suppose, all worldly advantages!—[Aloud.]—Does the holy Canna then prosper?

Sárn. O king, they who gather the fruits of devotion may command prosperity. He first inquires affectionately whether thy arms are successful, and then addresses thee in these words:—

Dushm. What are his orders?

Sárn. "The contract of marriage, reciprocally made between thee and this girl, my daughter, I confirm with tender regard; since thou art celebrated as the most honourable of men, and my Sacontalá is Virtue herself in a human form, no blasphemous complaint will henceforth be made against Brahmá for suffering discordant matches: he has now united a bride and bridegroom with qualities equally transcendent.—Since, therefore, she is pregnant by