King of Hearts. And thou didst have intention to return them?
Knave of Hearts. Ay, verily, my liege. Verily I did. I plead now that I be allowed to bring them to the board.
King of Hearts. Speakest thou the truth, Knave?
Knave of Hearts. Every word is truth, sire.
King of Hearts. Then go thou and seek the fire-crackers. (To the other Knaves.) And go ye with him. (To the Knave of Hearts.) The Queen holds my word that if thou bringest them back, I spare thy life. Now look to thyself. Away!
[Exeunt, L., the four Knaves.]
Joker. It is a cheap life that costeth but eight fire-crackers!
King of Spades. Ay, but the fire-crackers be worth more than yon Knave's life.
Queen of Hearts. Come, speak no more of his life. It is no longer forfeit. He hath promised restitution, and the King will bestow plenary pardon.
King of Spades. Well, as for me, I am more anxious as to the crackers than as to any Knave's life.