The King (taking of his hat respectfully). You are the woman I love.
Clara (quietly and with dignity). Your Majesty has solemnly promised not to insult me.
The King. As sure as there is a heaven above us I will not, and could not, insult you! But I will obey your wishes.
Clara. When a king says such a thing as—as you did just now, to a poor little governess, it is more than an insult! It is so cowardly, so base! And to think that you could have the heart to do it after what you have done to my father!
The King. Your father?—I?
Clara. Do you really not know who I am?
The King I don't understand—
Clara. Whose daughter I am, I mean?
The King. I only know that your father's name is Ernst. (Suddenly.) Surely your father is not—?
Clara. Professor Ernst.