(After thinking) My friend, my mother has accepted you also like a son (that is, my mother regards you as her own son). Therefore, you should return from here and, telling the revered mother that my mind is occupied with the affairs of the ascetics, carry out the duty of a son on my behalf. Jester— You are not considering me frightened of the demons (thinking so), (and therefore sending me back to the capital), are you? King— (Smiling) How could such a thing possibly apply to you? Jester— (In that case) I shall go in the manner befitting the younger brother of a king. King— Surely the hermitage must be protected from disturbance (that is, no obstacle should arise in the hermitage); therefore I am sending all the attendants along with you. Jester— (Proudly) Then now I have become the crown prince (royal prince). King— (To himself) This young Brāhmaṇa is restless and talkative. What if he tells the queens of the inner palace about my desire (regarding Śakuntalā)? Very well, I shall speak to him in this manner. (Taking the Jester by the hand and speaking openly) My friend, I am going to the hermitage because of the greatness (dignity and sanctity) of the sages. In truth, I have no attachment (desire) toward the ascetic maiden (Śakuntalā). Look, my friend — where are we, (immersed in luxury and enjoyment), and where is that innocent being (Śakuntalā), brought up among young deer and unfamiliar with sensual desire! (Therefore) do not take seriously (as literal truth) what I said in jest (playfully).