VIZIER. There are substitutes in all politics.
PEHR. What are they?
VIZIER. Compromises, modifications—
PEHR. Circumventions, eh?
VIZIER. Will it please Your Highness to sign?
PEHR. But I shall despise myself if I begin with a low action, and all the more will the people have the right to despise me!
VIZIER. The people demand that the ruler sacrifice all personal considerations for their welfare.
PEHR. Their welfare, then, is to be built upon a lie and a crime?
VIZIER. [Goes toward window.] Your Highness, the people await their chief. They are always ready to offer their sweat and blood for the ruler, therefore they demand, also, that the ruler make his sacrifices.
PEHR. Is what you say true? Well, then, give it me! [Accepts paper—hesitates.] The belfry, the chimes, the singing, the lights, Christmas—all pass before mine eyes! No more Christmas Eve! Life is so pitiless; it only demands, but never gives anything!