Leave it to me! Such things we soldiers can say well. And better than a learned orator, for we say it more sincerely. Leave it to me! I know it all already. Farewell, prince! I hasten----
PHILOTAS.
Stop!
PARMENIO.
Well? What means this serious air which you suddenly assume?
PHILOTAS.
The son has done with you, but not yet the prince. The one had to feel; the other has to think! How willingly would the son be again with his father,--his beloved father--this very moment--sooner than were possible; but the prince, the prince cannot.--Listen!
PARMENIO.
The prince cannot?