The King. Of course I am. You are all agreed that, under his rule, republican sentiments are growing in real earnest.
Flink. You are right! He couldn't help things on better if he were a republican himself, I assure you!
The King. Perhaps he is a republican?
Flink (animatedly). Perhaps he is! Splendid! And works against his own interests—!
The King. A sort of commercial traveller working for the downfall of his own firm!
Flink (excitedly). For the downfall of his own firm! Splendid! Props up his reactionary rule by means of royal pronouncements, confidential communications, public speeches—
The King.—in a suicidal manner!
Flink. Splendidly suicidal! Ah, that makes you laugh, does it?
Koll. Hush, some one might hear us!
Flink. I don't care who hears us! (The KING bursts out laughing.) But you ought, as one of the King's officials, to stop his laughing! (Points to the KING.) It's shocking!—It's high treason!