Anasuya— “Friend Shakuntala, this jasmine creeper (navamalika), the self-choosing bride (a bride choosing her own husband) of the mango tree (sahakara), to which you yourself gave the name Vanajyotsna (Moonlight of the Forest)— have you forgotten (about it)?” Shakuntala— “Then I would sooner forget myself as well. (Going near the creeper and looking at it) Friend, at a most beautiful moment this union (coming together) of the creeper and the tree has taken place. Vanajyotsna is adorned with the youthful beauty of fresh blossoms, and the mango tree, rich with leaves, is capable of enjoying (supporting and embracing) her.” (She stands gazing at them) Priyamvada— “Anasuya, do (you) know why Shakuntala is gazing so intently at Vanajyotsna?” Anasuya— “I cannot understand. (You yourself) tell me.” Priyamvada— “Just as Vanajyotsna has united with a tree suitable (worthy and fitting) for herself (that is, has become the life-companion of a worthy bridegroom-like tree), (in the same way) she wonders, ‘Will I too obtain a husband suitable (worthy and compatible) for myself?’” Shakuntala— “This is certainly your own desire.” (She pours out water from the pitcher) King— “Could it be possible that this (Shakuntala) was born from a non-Brahmin (Kshatriya) wife of the venerable head of the hermitage (Kanva)? Or rather, there is no need for doubt. This (Shakuntala) is undoubtedly worthy of being accepted in marriage (fit to be wedded) by a Kshatriya, for my noble heart is filled with desire for this (Shakuntala) (that is, it longs for her). For in matters (subjects) of uncertainty, the inclinations of the hearts (inner voice of the soul) of virtuous people themselves become the true authority (decisive proof).”