Volume 7 / Act 2 — SCENE III
Reading edition
KING.
They've gone. At last I have a moment to myself. [EVERSMANN comes in.] I am supremely happy.
EVERSMANN.
My respectful congratulations.
KING.
Thankee-now just imagine—oh, yes—no. [Aside.] No one must know of it.
EVERSMANN.
Did Your Majesty intend to—
KING.
Change my clothes? Yes—take this coat off; we'll spare no expense. They shall see that I possess wealth; they shall see that though I may be parsimonious ordinarily, still I can spend as well as any of them when an occasion offers. An occasion like this—[with an out-burst.] Eversmann, just imagine! [Remembering.] Oh, yes.
EVERSMANN (takes off the KING'S coat).
Will Your Majesty put on the embroidered uniform?
KING.
The embroidered uniform, Eversmann. I am expecting guests to whom all honor must be shown. Great honor—for when it concerns the arrival of persons who—[He sits down.] Take off my boots. [EVERSMANN pulls off the boots with difficulty.] Has the Prince of Baireuth been here yet?
EVERSMANN.
Is Your Majesty going to all this trouble on his account?
KING.
On his account? Possibly. [Aside.] I'll lead them all a dance. [Aloud.] Zounds! Villain! Rascal! My corns! I believe the rogue is hurting me on purpose—because I won't tell him anything.
EVERSMANN.
But, Your Majesty, I haven't asked any questions yet.
KING.
I'll have you asking questions! Now what are you laughing at, sirrah? Heh? Fetch me my dressing gown until you have found the uniform. [EVERSMANN turns to go.] Hey, there! Why did you laugh just now?
EVERSMANN.
Because I know—that before I have brought Your Majesty your hat Your Majesty will have told me all about it.
KING (threatening him with his cane).
You rascal—how dare you?
EVERSMANN (retiring toward the door).
Your Majesty can't keep a secret. There is only one thing Your Majesty can hold fast to, and that is—your money! Ha! ha! I'll fetch the dressing-gown. [He goes out.]