The King.
But were you weeping, and did you dry your lovely eyes?
The Queen.
No, I can’t say I was or did! However that’s what he said!
The Chancellor.
[Explains.] Queens and princesses generally weep beside a fountain, Sire! You’ll find it here in the “Book of Royal Etiquette”! [He turns over the leaves of a huge volume.] It is customary for them accidentally to drop a precious ring into its green depths, and then to shed tears over it!
The King.
I see! Go on, my love!
The Queen.