Every one rejoices, sire, that you will humble that proud and supercilious house of Austria, and enter the lists for Germany." "Listen!" answered the king, sternly.

"I did not ask you to blow the trumpet of praise, as if your honor, inspector of the theatres, thought yourself upon the stage, and would commence a comedy with the king of lamps.

So it is known then that my soldiers will enter the great theatre of war, and that we are about to fight real battles." "It is known, sire," replied Von Arnim, bowing.
"Then what I am about to communicate to you will not surprise you.

The present juncture of affairs leads us to await very grave scenes--we can well dispense with comedy.

I withdraw the salaries and pensions of the French actors--your own is included.