KING. Good!—Tell me something What do you think of Herman Israel—as a man, and more particularly in his relationship to me?
OLAVUS. He seems to me a good and faithful friend of your Highness. As a private person he is honest in every respect, big-minded, and straight in all his actions.
KING. I am glad to hear it just now, when I have all but lost my faith in friendship. So you think I can rely on him?
OLAVUS. Absolutely.
KING. Have you heard of the restlessness in the southern provinces?
OLAVUS. Yes, I am sorry to say.
KING. They say that it is pretty serious.
OLAVUS. So serious that nothing but quick and determined action can save the country.
KING. Have you heard the Emperor's name mentioned in this connection?
OLAVUS. I have.