SECKENDORF (aside).

I will question Baronet Hotham cautiously.

HOTHAM (aside).

Mayhap this much-decorated gentleman can give me some information.

SECKENDORF (clearing his throat).

May I ask—how His Royal Highness, the Prince of Wales, is enjoying himself in Berlin? I am Count Seckendorf.

HOTHAM. Most happy to meet you. As Your Excellency perceives, he is at this moment in the very best hands. [Points after EVERSMANN.]

SECKENDORF (startled, aside).

In the best hands? Is he mocking me or is he deceived himself? It looks as though he too were in the conspiracy.

HOTHAM (aside).