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how imperfectly has this affair been conducted by a lover, like me, who, with his darling by his side, has let the occasion slip.—Should Sacontalá visit once more this calm retreat, the opportunity shall not pass again unimproved; the pleasures of youth are by nature transitory.—Thus my foolish heart forms resolutions, while it is distracted by the sudden interruption of its happiness. Why did it ever allow me to quit without effect the presence of my beloved?

Behind the scenes. O king, while we are beginning our evening sacrifice, the figures of bloodthirsty demons, embrowned by clouds collected at the departure of day, glide over the sacred hearth, and spread consternation around.

Dushm. Fear not, holy men.—Your king will protect you.

[He goes out.