The King.—which shall be inviolable.
Baroness. I understand that you wish to speak to Miss Ernst alone?
The King. Your ladyship need only go up to the top of that little slope. (Points.) I can recommend the view from there.
Baroness. The interview will not be a long one, I suppose?
The King. If it is, I give your ladyship permission to come and interrupt us. (The BARONESS goes out. The KING turns to CLARA.) May I be permitted to thank you again—you especially—for having been so good as to grant me this interview?
Clara. It will be the only one.
The King. I know that. You have not condescended to answer one of my letters—
Clara. I have not read them.
The King.—so there was nothing left for me but to address myself to the Baroness. She was obliged to listen to me, Miss Ernst.
Clara (trembling). What has your Majesty to say to me?