es,
such a smooth, flexible back, that one cannot understand him. He
appears to be a wealthy man; for he is wearing a pair of fine boots
and as far as I can infer from his exterior he seems to be a hunter.

KING.

Bring him in; I am curious to see him.

[_Groom goes and returns directly with_ HINZE.]

HINZE.

With your majesty's most gracious permission the Count of
Carabas makes bold to present you with a rabbit.

KING (_delighted_).

A rabbit? Do you hear it, really, people? Ah, fate
has become reconciled with me again! A rabbit?

HINZE (_takes it out of his knapsack_).

Here, great monarch!

KING.

Here--just hold the sceptre a moment, prince. (_He feels the
rabbit._) Fat! nice and fat! From the Count of ----

HINZE.

Carabas.

KING.

Indeed, he must be an excellent man. I must become better
acquainted with him. Who is the man? Which of you knows him? Why does
he keep himself concealed? If such heads as that are allowed to remain
idle, what will become of our throne! I would cry for joy. _Sends me a
rabbit!_ Groom, give it to the cook directly.

[_Groom takes it. Exit._]

NATHAN.

My king, I beg most humbly to make my departure.

KING.

Why, indeed! I had almost forgotten that in my joy! Farewell,
prince, yes, you must make room for other suitors; it cannot be
otherwise. Adieu! I wish you had a highroad all the way home.

[_Prince kisses his hand. Exit._]

KING (_shouting_).

People! Let my historian come!

[_The historian appears._]

KING.

Here, friend, come, here's some material for our history of the
world. You have your book with you, of course!

HISTORIAN.

Yes, my king.

KING.

Now enter immediately, that on such and such a day (whatever
date we happen to have today) the Count of Carabas sent me a present
of a most delicious rabbit.

[HISTORIAN _seats himself and writes._]

KING.

Do not forget, _Anno currentis_. I must think of everything,
otherwise it's always sure to be done wrong. (_Blast of a trumpet is
heard._) Ah, dinner is ready--come, my daughter, do not weep; if it
isn't one prince, it will be another. Hunter, we thank you for your
trouble. Will you accompany us to the dining-room?

(_They go_, HINZE _follows_.)

LEUTNER.

Pretty soon I shall not be able to stand it any longer; why,
what has happened to the father now, who was so tender to his