The General. Ha, ha, ha!—But seriously, Sir, the time is approaching when such a co-operation will be the only safeguard of the throne.
The King. Indeed?
The General (hurriedly). That is to say, of course, the throne stands firm by itself—God forbid I should hint otherwise! But what I mean is that it is the Army ants the Church that must supply the monarchy with the necessary splendour and authority—
The King. I suppose, then, that the monarchy has no longer any of its own?
The General (jumping up). Heaven forbid that I should say such a thing! I would give my life in support of the monarchy!
The King. You will have to die some day, unfortunately (Laughs as he gets up.) Who is that coming this way?
The General (putting up his eyeglass). That? It is the Princess and Countess L'Estoque, Sir.
The King. Is the Princess suffering from indigestion too?
The General (confidentially). I fancy your Majesty knows best what the Princess is suffering from. (The KING moves away from him.) I made a mess of that! It comes of my trying to be too clever.—He is walking towards her. Perhaps there is something in it, after all? I must tell Falbe about it. (Turns to go.) Confound it, he saw that I was watching them! (Goes out. The KING returns to the arbour with the PRINCESS on his arm. The COUNTESS and one of the royal servants are seen crossing the park in the background.)
The Princess. This is a most surprising meeting! When did your Majesty return?