THE DUKE.

There's no one else.

THE EMPEROR.

I'll think.

THE DUKE.

Don't think! Don't think those horrid second thoughts!

Consult your feelings only, and your heart, 'Twould be so pretty if an Emperor once Upset all history to spoil his grandson.

And then it's something, something rather fine, If you can just remark quite innocently, _You_ know: "My Grandson, Emperor of the French."

THE EMPEROR.

Certainly.

THE DUKE.

And you'll say it! Say you'll say it!

THE EMPEROR.

Well--

THE DUKE.

Speak, Sire!

THE EMPEROR.

Yes, then--Sire!

THE DUKE.

Ah, Sire!

[_They salute each other as equals._]

THE EMPEROR.

Sire!

THE DUKE.

Sire!

[_A door opens._]

THE EMPEROR.

Metternich. Have no fear; I'll--

THE DUKE.

All is lost!

[_Enter_ METTERNICH.]

THE EMPEROR.

It is my will this child shall reign.

METTERNICH.

Delightful.

I'll tell your partisans at once.

THE DUKE.

I feared.

THE EMPEROR.

What should you fear? Am I not master here?

THE DUKE.

Whom will you send me as Amba.s.sador?

METTERNICH.

Delightful.

THE DUKE.

And you'll visit me in state?

THE EMPEROR.

Yes, very likely; when the chambers rise.

METTERNICH.

We'll only ask some trifling guarantees.

THE DUKE.