[To Courtiers, nodding his head.
[He throws himself into a large armchair and sighs profoundly.
[To Duke de Bellegarde.
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE (advancing with three profound salutations).
The time for sleeping, sire, is past.
THE KING (eagerly).
True, Duke! The State is rushing to destruction
With giant strides!
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
'Tis guided by a hand
Both strong and wise.
THE KING.