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Dushm. My charmer, your fear of them is vain. Canna himself, who is deeply versed in the science of law, will be no obstacle to our union. Many daughters of the holiest men have been married by the ceremony called Gándharva, as it is practised by Indra's band, and even their fathers have approved them.—[Looking round.]—What say you? Are you still inflexible? Alas! I must then depart.

[Going from her a few paces, then looking back.

Sac. [Moving also a few steps, then turning back her face.] Though I have refused compliance, and have only allowed you to converse with me for a moment, yet—O son of Puru—let not Sacontalá be wholly forgotten.

Dushm. Enchanting girl, should you be removed to the ends of the world, you will be fixed in this heart, as the shade of a lofty tree remains with it even when the day is departed.

Sac. [Going out, aside.] Since I have heard his protestations, my feet move, indeed, but without advancing. I will conceal myself behind those flowering Curuvacas, and thence I shall see the result of his passion.

[She hides herself behind the shrubs.

Dushm. [Aside.] Can you leave me beloved Sacontalá; me who am all affection? Could you not have tarried a single moment? Soft is your beautiful frame, and indicates a benevolent soul; yet your heart is obdurate, as the tender Sirísha hangs on a hard stalk.