HOTHAM (comes in, bows).

His Majesty graciously consented to give me a farewell audience.

[EVERSMANN returns with a little package which he opens, drawing out a white domino.]

EVERSMANN (to HOTHAM).

I will announce you at once, sir. [To SECKENDORF, smiling.] Now, Count Seckendorf, if you wish to see the Prince of Wales [Pointing to the domino] here he is.

[He goes out into the KING’S room.]

SECKENDORF (aside).

That the Prince of Wales?

HOTHAM (aside).

A white domino the Prince of Wales?

SECKENDORF (aside).

What’s the key to this new riddle?

HOTHAM (aside).

Can there be some secret doings here?

SECKENDORF (aside).

I will question Baronet Hotham cautiously.

HOTHAM (aside).

Mayhap this much-decorated gentleman can give me some information.

SECKENDORF (clearing his throat).

May I ask—­how His Royal Highness, the Prince of Wales, is enjoying himself in Berlin?  I am Count Seckendorf.

HOTHAM.  Most happy to meet you.  As Your Excellency perceives, he is at this moment in the very best hands. [Points after EVERSMANN.]

SECKENDORF (startled, aside).

In the best hands?  Is he mocking me or is he deceived himself?  It looks as though he too were in the conspiracy.

HOTHAM (aside).

This misunderstanding whets my curiosity.

SECKENDORF.

You are in error, Baronet, if you believe that we have opposed the suit of the Prince of Wales.  Procure me an opportunity to speak to the Prince, and I will consider it an honor to be allowed to repeat this assurance in his own presence.

HOTHAM (pointing to the KING’s door).

The door of His Majesty’s Cabinet is, I am told, always open to the
Imperial Envoy.

SECKENDORF (aside).

The King’s Cabinet!  Where the Court tailor has just taken the white domino [Aloud.] H’m!  Baronet Hotham, do you happen to be acquainted with the legend of the White Lady, connected for centuries with the history of the House of Brandenberg?

HOTHAM.

I am, Your Excellency.  And I hear that the White Lady has been seen again recently.

SECKENDORF (aside).

Recently?  It is a conspiracy.  They are deceiving us under cloak of the mystery of the White Lady.  The Prince of Wales and the King have a thorough understanding with each other. [Aloud.] Baronet Hotham, this is double-dealing.  Be honest!  Confess that the Prince is not only here, but that he is received by the King at any hour.

HOTHAM.

What grounds have you for your belief?

SECKENDORF.