THE KING.
(Springing up.) Go! Go! I feel entirely well!
ALMA.
(Seizing a fool's bauble, rushes on the stage, bows, and then declaims in a light, jesting tone.)
I here appear to herald unto you
The coming of a king, who, verily,
Was never king.——
Groom of the bedchamber is my post to him.
I laud him as a demigod, a hero;
Give admiration to his wit; praise his clothes;
My profit great in offices and gifts.
I earnestly desire him length of days;
But, should he die and his successor rule——
I trust God's grace will spare me from that blow!——
Why then, obsequiously, with raptured mien
To the newcomer I shall play my rôle,
As is a valet courtier's pious way.
But I must cease, for lo, the King is here!
THE KING.
(Enters.) My slumbers have been light throughout the night.
ALMA.
(Bowing, with crossed arms.) Tour people should be made to smart for that!
THE KING.