3rd Baron.
—And wish
To teach us how to wait!
Ganelun.
Nay, here's King Mark!
ERNST HARDT
SCENE II
Mark and Denovalin enter; behind them comes a man-at-arms who closes the door and stands against the wall beside it. Mark holds a parchment in his hand, and, without noticing the barons, walks agitatedly to the front of the stage. Denovalin goes behind the table and places himself between it and the throne. The barons rise.
1st Baron.
Does Mark no longer know us that he greets
Us not?
2d Baron.
And dost thou know, my Lord—?
Mark (turning angrily upon the baron).
Am I
A weak old man because my hair is gray,
Because my hands are wrinkled, ay, and hard,
Because at times my armor chafes my back?
Am I an old and sapless log? A man
Used up who shall forever keep his peace?
(Controlling himself.)