Is there something so important on hand? Doesn't Your Majesty want the crown also?

KING.

The crown! Idiot! [He comes out.] You can be glad that you don't have to wear it, sirrah! Off with you now. Eversmann, and see that everything is in order. [EVERSMANN goes out.] Good morning, Grumbkow and Seckendorf. No time for you now—my compliments to the State of Prussia and I beg to be left to myself today. Good morning—good morning.

[The two ministers prepare reluctantly to depart.]

GRUMBKOW (in the door).

Your Majesty is in such a merry mood—

SECKENDORF.

Could it be the arrival of the courier—? KING (indifferently). Oh, yes. A courier came—

GRUMBKOW.

From Hanover?