Court Lady [full of relief]. Oh, yes! Here they come. Here they come!
[Enter Fathers Anselmus and Gregory
(R.), followed by Sebastian and Felix;
at same time enter Peter (L.). Monks
walk with hands clasped before them. Villagers
all doff caps, bow, and courtesy.
Even the Prince is awed into respect. The
Fathers look about smilingly.
Gregory. Well, well, Brother Anselmus, there seems quite a goodly number awaiting us to-day.
Anselm [rubbing his hands]. Yes, Brother Gregory. I trust we shall discover the right boys at last. Let me see. [Looks about, aside.] I suppose we should examine his Royal Highness first?
Gregory. Truly, my Brother. Let us commit no breach of etiquette.
Anselm. Your Highness! [Monks bow very slightly. Prince and attendants advance a little.] How old are you?
Courtier [haughtily]. His Royal Highness has just completed his eleventh year.
Gregory. Indeed! And is he a good boy, as boys go?
Court Lady. "As boys go," indeed! Why, his Royal Highness is not to be mentioned in the same day with common boys!
Anselm. Oh! Then you are not like other boys?