KING.
Here, friend, come, here's some material for our history of the world. You have your book with you, of course!
HISTORIAN.
Yes, my king.
KING.
Now enter immediately, that on such and such a day (whatever date we happen to have today) the Count of Carabas sent me a present of a most delicious rabbit.
[HISTORIAN seats himself and writes.]
KING.
Do not forget, Anno currentis. I must think of everything, otherwise it's always sure to be done wrong. (Blast of a trumpet is heard.) Ah, dinner is ready—come, my daughter, do not weep; if it isn't one prince, it will be another. Hunter, we thank you for your trouble. Will you accompany us to the dining-room?
(They go, HINZE follows.)