[Exit.
SIR ROBERT (looking demurely).—Hem!
[The Queen regards him very attentively.]
THE QUEEN (aside).—I don’t much like the looks of the fellow—that affectation of simplicity is evidently intended to conceal the real cunning of his character. (Aloud). You are of course aware of the nature and the duties of the situation which you solicit?
SIR ROBERT.—Oh, yes, your Majesty; I have filled it before, and liked it very much.
THE QUEEN.—It’s a most responsible post, for upon your conduct much of the happiness of my other servants depends.
SIR ROBERT.—I am aware of that, your Majesty; but as no one can hope to please everybody, I will only answer that one half shall be perfectly satisfied.
THE QUEEN.—You have recently returned from Tamworth?
SIR ROBERT.—Yes, your Majesty.
THE QUEEN.—We will dispense with forms. At Tamworth, you have been practising as a quack doctor?