[Sounds of beating without, and loud cries by the Knave of Hearts of "Ow!" "Ow!" "Mercy, my lord!" "Hold!" "Hear me!"]
Queen of Spades. 'Tis evident the punishment hath begun.
Queen of Clubs. Oh, the poor Knave! the poor Knave!
[More sounds of beating and more cries. The King of Spades becomes very much excited.]
King of Spades (shaking his fist in the direction of the cries). Have at him, good cousin of Hearts, have at him! Ah, but those are lusty blows! By my halidame, I would fain witness that controversy! [Slaps his knee.]
Joker. A most one-sided controversy, my lord.
King of Spades. Nay, but I warrant the King doth lay it on both sides. [More beating and cries.]
Joker. Ay, from the sounds, he doth lay it on. But, doubtless, it will whet his appetite.
King of Spades. His appetite? Now, by St. Dagobert, I have already an appetite as I had beaten an hundred knaves!
Joker. Then will it also be a one-sided controversy when you meet the banquet board.