King. What has happened there?
Chamberlain.
While he was resting on its height,
Which palace peacocks in their flight
Can hardly reach, he seemed to be
Snatched up—by what, we could not see.
King (rising quickly). My very palace is invaded by evil creatures. To be a king, is to be a disappointed man.
The moral stumblings of mine own,
The daily slips, are scarcely known;
Who then that rules a kingdom, can
Guide every deed of every man?
The voice. Hurry, hurry!
King (hears the voice and quickens his steps). Have no fear, my friend.
The voice. Have no fear! When something has got me by the back of the neck, and is trying to break my bones like a piece of sugar-cane!
King (looks about). A bow! a bow! (Enter a Greek woman with a bow.)
Greek woman. A bow and arrows, your Majesty. And here are the finger-guards. (The king takes the bow and arrows.)