arrival,
to make a certain declaration herewith--

KING.

And that is?

HOTHAM.

The Prince of Wales--is already here.

ALL.

The Prince of Wales--in Berlin?

HOTHAM.

The Prince of Wales arrived three hours ago.

GRUMBKOW AND SECKENDORF.

Impossible!

QUEEN (_triumphant_).

I breathe again.

KING (_in real consternation, but controling himself_).

Baronet Hotham, I confess that this news surprises, nay, moves me
greatly. But you can lay it to the account of your own egotistical
politics if I declare to you that no stranger in Berlin exists for me,
until he has been properly registered at the gates of the capital. If
you _will_ drive me to the last stand, if you would make the ground of
my own country too hot for me--then tell the Prince of Wales that
although I am deeply touched by his affection for my family, still,
under conditions threatening the peace of my country, the welfare of my
subjects--I must beg of him to return whence he came. Prince, you ride
to Vienna as envoy of this monarchy. Wilhelmine, the Imperial Crown
will console you. And as for you, Madame [_aside to the Queen_], has not
your pride found its limits at last?

QUEEN.

I have pledged my word to England.

KING (_good-naturedly_).

But if it isn't possible--

[_Comes nearer cordially, holds out his hand._]

QUEEN (_touched, hesitating_).

An hour ago, possibly--[_firm and decided again_], but now--the
personal presence of the Prince of Wales has taken the decision out of
our hands.

KING.

Very well--he who _will_ have war--[_To_ HOTHAM] Have you any other
instructions than those we have already heard?

HOTHAM.

None, Your Majesty.

KING.

Then come to me, Prince, for the contract with Vienna. A German state in
England's stead! 'Tis better so, gentlemen, better so. I will cleave to
Germany with all my soul. Foreign egotism shall teach German peoples and
Princes how to be truly united. [_He goes out into his study._ GRUMBKOW,
SECKENDORF _and the generals follow._]

QUEEN (_to_ HOTHAM).

Sir, you have been witness to a scene which confirms for you the truth
as to my position here, the truth that is not yet credited in England.
Wilhelmine, the news of the arrival of the Prince of Wales gives me
fresh hope. Ride to Vienna, Prince--become, if you must, a traitor to a
cause which will conquer, despite the intrigues of my enemies. Give me
your arm, Lord Hotham. The Prince of Wales in Berlin! I can hardly
reali