Note 2 — Chapter XXXI · The Actor Kainz
Ethel Harriet Hearn translation
The King desired to make a journey to Spain in company with the actor,2 but was obliged to abandon the plan because Bürckel, who had the arrangement of the trip, represented to him that the time of year was unfavourable. “It is a pity,” said he; “I have a far greater desire to see Spain than Italy, which has no attractions for me. But now when I am about to satisfy my longing, Bürckel comes with his objections; the propriety of which I cannot but acknowledge.” “Bürckel, however, is only an adviser,” observed Kainz; “your Majesty is lord and master!” “Yes,” sighed Ludwig, “but it is not always so easy to be King as it appears to be.” “If it is difficult to your Majesty you can give up the sceptre into other hands,” remarked the actor. The answer displeased the King, who rose to his feet, thus giving the actor a hint that he must be more careful in the use of his expressions.