He observed with some concern that his Majesty was much agitated.
The business of the kingdom, save that performed in the Diet, was accomplished in the east wing of the palace; the king's apartments, aside from the state rooms, occupied the west wing.

It was to the business section that the king conducted the diplomat.

In the chamber of finance its minister was found busy at his desk.

He glanced up casually, but gave an ejaculation of surprise when he perceived who his visitors were.
"O, your Majesty!" he cried, bobbing up and running out his chair.
"Good afternoon, your Excellency," to the Englishman, adjusting his gold-rimmed glasses, through which his eyes shone pale and cold.
The diplomat bowed.

The little man reminded him of M.Thiers, that effervescence of soda tinctured with the bitterness of iron.