"The reason is, that when with your majesty, I always feel as if I were not in my sphere."
"You have no common sense."
"That is yet another reason."
"You will remain," said he, forcing her to sit down to the piano, and placing himself in front of her. He then began to examine her, with an air half inquisitorial and half paternal.
"Is what you have said true?"
Porporina overcame the horror she entertained for falsehood. She had often said that for her own sake she would be sincere with this terrible man, but that she would not hesitate to tell an untruth if the safety of others were concerned. Unexpectedly she had reached this crisis, when her master's kindness might change into fury. She would willingly have run the risk of the latter, rather than be false. The fate of Trenck and the princess, however, depended on her presence of mind and determination. She called the arts of her profession to her aid, and with a malicious smile met the eagle eye of the king, which, at that moment glared like a vulture's.
"Well," said the king, "why do you not answer me?"
"Why does your majesty seek to terrify me by doubting what I have said?"
"You are not at all afraid. On the contrary, I find your glance today hardy indeed."
"Sire, we fear only the things we hate. Why do you wish me to fear you?"