[Music. Enter the King and Queen of Diamonds, L.]
King of Hearts. Welcome, my cousin of Diamonds. Welcome this glorious July day.
Queen of Hearts. Welcome, fair lady. "First come, best loved," is the saying, you know—and ye are the first come. Pray be seated.
[At the entrance of the King and Queen of Diamonds the King and Queen of Hearts rise to greet them. The King of Diamonds bows to the King of Hearts and kisses the hand of the Queen of Hearts. The Queen of Diamonds courtesies. She then sits down in an arm-chair, R., and the King of Diamonds takes his stand behind her. The Knave of Diamonds drops the portière and sits on the bench.]
Joker (to Queen of Diamonds). Even the sun, fair lady—which is said by the poets to shine brightest this fair month of July—even the sun fails to outsparkle your priceless precious stones.
Queen of Diamonds. Ah, you have a pretty wit, Sir Joker. But are they not truly the most brilliant of jewels?
Joker. The most brilliant of jewels, yes; but they pale before their wearer's beauty.
[Takes his seat on the stool near the throne.]
[Enter, L., Knave of Clubs, who announces,]
Knave of Clubs. Their Majesties the King and Queen of Clubs.