group of officials and others who bring to him the empty phrases
of a conventional condolence:--

The King. Hush! Have a little respect for the truth that
should follow death! Understand me rightly: I do not mean
that any of you would lie. But the very air about a king
is infected. It was of that-a word or two. My time is short.
But a testament. ...

The Priest. Testament.

The King. Neither the Old nor the New! Greet what is
called Christianity here in this land-greet it from me!
I have thought much about Christian folk of late.

The Priest. That rejoices me.

The King. How your tone cuts me! Greet it from me,
what is called Christianity here in this land. Nay,
do not crane your necks and bend your backs as if the
wisdom of the ages were now forthcoming. (_aside_) Can
there be any use in saying something seriously? (_aloud_)
You are Christians?

The General. God forbid the doubt! Faith is exceedingly
useful. ...

The King. For discipline. (_to the Sheriff_) And you?

The Sheriff. From my blessed ancestors I received the faith.