DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
But he thinks
He does your will. He's faithful. He is firm
And sure.
THE KING.
I hate him! He is in my way.
He crushes me! I am not master here—
Not free! And yet I might be something. Ah,
When he walks o'er me with such heavy tread,
Does he not fear to rouse a slumbering king?
For trembling near me, be it ne'er so high,
His fortune vacillates with every breath
I draw, and all would crumble at a word,
Did I wish loud, what I wish in my heart!
[A pause.
DUKE DE BELLEGARDE.
Your Majesty is suffering?
THE KING.
I am bored.
[A pause.