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.