PRINCE.
And this holds out some hope for me?
HOTHAM.
There lies no hope in this unfortunate mission of mine, but in one of its clauses which states that the marriage, if all else be favorable, may be concluded only on this condition [looking about cautiously]: that certain English manufacturers shut out by Prussia be readmitted into the country [softly] on acceptable terms.
PRINCE.
And into this—this mercantile scheming you would mingle a question of love—an affair of the heart?
HOTHAM.
I am here to speak for the hearts of our merchants, hearts that beat warmly for the throne, but still more warmly for their balance-sheets. If our factories have nothing to hope for, then, Prince [takes his hands], my protector, my patron, then I am all yours. And you shall see that I have other talents besides those of diplomacy.
PRINCE.
Talents to awaken a hope on which the bitterest disappointment must follow.