QUEEN (aside, crushed).
The King!
KING (angry, but forcing himself to be affable).
On my word, how fine we are here, very fine indeed! And how nice it does look with so many lights burning. [He blows out several.] Why are you hiding yourselves, ladies? Did you expect such a visitor?
QUEEN.
Your Majesty
[The ladies place themselves so that they screen the table. They hide the cards quickly.]
KING.
Do not let me disturb you, ladies. What is your particular entertainment this evening? Enjoying a cup of soup, Frau von Holzendorf? [Comes nearer.] Oho—the silver service? [He looks into cups.] What's that? Tea? Chocolate? Coffee?