COUNT.
This, with my life, I dedicate to Your Majesty's service!
KING (to ALBERT.) As for you, sir, the sword, is not your weapon. (HAROLD advances with a golden pen upon a velvet cushion. ALBERT kneels.) Receive this emblem of far greater power than all the implements of war, and wield it for the benefit of mankind. Rise, Baron—
ALBERT.
Mansfield, Your Majesty—
KING (with surprise.)
Mansfield?
SOPHIA.
My heart was not deceived! My long-lost brother!
ALBERT (ALBERT and SOPHIA rush into each other's arms.)
My dear, dear sister!
KING (looking at them.) So, so, so! Oh, what an old fool I have been! (Looking around.) Come hither, Sophia. (She advances; the KING takes her hand.) I owe you some amends for your long and patient suffering on my account (taking the COUNT's hand)—and thus I make them. (SOPHIA and LANISKA join hands joyfully.) How well the criminals understand each other! (Rubbing his hands, and walking joyfully about the stage.) Ah, Mr. Wedgewood, I don't care if I take a pinch of snuff out of that same box I gave you the other day.
WEDGEWOOD (presenting box.) Your Majesty has added to its value a diamond worth all the rest, in finding it is large enough for two of us.
KING. Good! (Notices FREDERICA.) What! Frederica, my fair namesake and little god-daughter—in the dumps? (Looking at ALBERT.) Oh, I understand. (To COUNTESS.) By your leave madam. (Hands FREDERICA to ALBERT.) You perceive, Mr. Wedgewood, that I have a large family to look after and provide for; but I am a happy father, sir—mine are good children, very good children! I wish I had more like these.
WEDGEWOOD (significantly.)
If Your Majesty goes on in this way, there'll be plenty more—IN TIME.