Now he is departed. Those minions who during his lifetime came between the heart of the mother and the heart of the husband and father, those minions tremble now. It remains to be seen how the misunderstood son will dispose of them. The father's deeds will remain the foundation of this state. But a milder spirit will reign in the land; the arts and sciences will outdistance the fame of cannon and bullet. And the soaring eagle of Prussia will now truly fulfil his device, Nec Soli Cedis—or, to put it in German, "Even the sun's glance shall not dazzle thee! Even the sun shall stand aside from out thy path!" [He recollects himself, and after a pause returns to the table, again pretending drunkenness.] Hotham, give me something to drink.
KING (after a pause).
What hour is it?
EVERSMANN.
Eleven past, Your Majesty. (Aside.) If we should meet the Prince of
Wales now, woe unto him.
KING (taking a tankard from the table).
Prince, when you have come to your senses tomorrow, let them tell you that the King touched glasses with you.
PRINCE.
At Your Majesty's service.