Knave of Diamonds. Or hearing, understands naught.
Joker. By my halidame an ye ruffians bridle not your tongues, I will even on this torrid night fall to and smite ye till ye whine like hounds for mercy!
[Threatens them with his rattle.]
The four Knaves. Oh, but that is a fierce threat!
[They nod their heads to one another in mock seriousness, and point at the Joker with the big fire-crackers.]
Joker. And now, Spades—?
Knave of Spades. Ay, Sir Joker, to-night the King and Queen of Hearts do hold a sumptuous feast, and afterward there are to be fireworks galore. To the banquet have been invited the King and Queen of Spades, the King and Queen of Diamonds, and the King and Queen of Clubs.
Joker. A right royal company, Spades.
Knave of Spades. Indeed right royal. And the feast too shall be right royal. My liege the King of Spades brings with him his fiddlers three.
Joker. So, so! Ha, ha! [Sings.]