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while he was playing with the lion : I see it, and will put it into your hand.

Both. Oh! beware of touching it.

First Atten. Ah! he has actually taken it up.

[They both gaze with surprize on each other.

Dushm. Here it is; but why would you have restrained me from touching this bright gem?

Second Atten. Great monarch, this divine amulet has a wonderful power, and was given to the child by the son of Maríchi, as soon as the sacred rites had been performed after his birth; whenever it fell on the ground, no human being but the father or mother of this boy could have touched it unhurt.

Dnshm. What if a stranger had taken it?

First Atten. It would have become a serpent and wounded him.

Dushm. Have you seen that consequence on any similar occasion?

Both. Frequently.

Dushm. [With transport.] I may then exult on the completion of my ardent desire.

[He embraces the child.

Second Atten. Come, Suvritá, let us carry the delightful intelligence to Sacontalá, whom the harsh duties of a separated wife have so long oppressed.

[The Attendants go out.

Boy. Farewell; I must go to my mother.

Dushm. My darling son, thou wilt make her happy by going to her with me.

Boy. Dushmanta is my father; and you are not Dushmanta.