The King. Then I know higher duties than those!—But, Princess, here are we two seriously discussing—
The Princess. Yes, but there is something at the bottom of it that is not to be laughed away. All tradition and all experience proclaim it to be the truth that a king—the kingly majesty—should be a dignity apart; and should be the ultimate source of law, surrounded with pomp and circumstance, and secure behind the fortified walls of wealth, rank, and hereditary nobility. If he steps out of that magic circle, the law's authority is weakened.
The King. Has your Royal Highness breakfasted yet?
The Princess. No. (Bursts out laughing.)
The King. Because, if you had, I should have had great pleasure is giving you a lesson in history; but on an empty stomach that would be cruel.
The Princess. Do you know—you used to be such an entertaining king, but this last year you have become so tedious!
The King. Most beautiful of princesses! Do you really mean to say that I rise and fall in your estimation according as I have my pretty royal gew-gaws on or not?
The Princess. In my estimation?
The King. Or in any one's? You know the story of "The Emperor's New Clothes"?
The Princess. Yes.