KING.
What's that? Did you not drop something? My God! Cards! [He stands as if speechless.] Playing-cards! [To the QUEEN.] Cards, madam—a Christian court—and cards! I am sure, Frau von Viereck, you were merely prophesying from those cards. I know, ladies, that you were only telling your fortunes from the cards. I am quite sure, Frau von Viereck, that you were merely endeavoring to ascertain whether you would bury your fifth husband also. Surely—or—is it possible? Money on the tables! [He clasps his hands in horror.] You—have-been-playing?—at my court?—playing-cards? [There is a knock at the door to the left.] Who knocks there?
QUEEN (aside).
It is Wilhelmine or the Prince of Wales! I am lost!
[Another gentle knock is heard.]
KING.
You are awaiting more visitors? Come in!
[He goes to the door himself and opens it.]
SCENE IV
WILHELMINE, wearing a white veil and domino, comes in cautiously.