Gran. But it was public opinion we were talking about, Flink; is it very much like what we heard to-day? Flink. I wouldn't say that; your opinions are rather advanced in these parts. The King. Is the tendency republican, rather than monarchical? Flink. That depends how you look at it. The King has just been paying some visits in the country districts; he is, so to speak, the commercial traveller for his firm--as all kings and crown princes are. Of course he was cheered everywhere. But go and ask the agricultural classes if they set great store by the pomp and circumstance of royalty; they will unanimously answer: "It costs an infernal lot to keep up!" Ha, ha, ha! Gran. Your farmer is a realist. Flink. A brutal realist! Ha, ha, ha! Self-government is cheaper. He has it all at his fingers' ends, the scoundrel! The King. He is not a republican by conviction, then Flink. Not universally, no. At least, not _yet_. But things are moving that way; and our reactionary government is helping the movement--that, and the letter they get from America. The King. The letters they get from America? Koll. Letters from their relations in America. Gran. There is scarcely a family in the country now that has not relations in America. The King. And they write home about self-government?--about republican principles? Flink. And republican institutions. That is the situation! The King. Have you read any of these letters? Flink. Lots! The King. This is excellent champagne! (Drinks.) Gran. Let me fill your glasses. (They all drink.) Flink. It doesn't really agree with me. The King. But suppose the King were to establish democratic government? Suppose he were to live like an ordinary citizen in every way? Flink. In every way? What do you mean by that? The King. Kept house like an ordinary citizen--were married like an ordinary citizen--were to be found in his office at regular hours like any other official? Gran. And had no court, I suppose? The King. No. (KOLL and GRAN exchange glances.) Flink (shrugging his shoulders). It would be the last sensation left for him to try. The King (who did not observe his shrug, eagerly). That is so, isn't it? You agree with me as to that? I am delighted to have had this talk with you, Mr. Flink. Flink. The same to you, Mr.--Mr.--. (In an undertone, to KOLL.) Is he a republican? The King (who has overheard him). Am I a republican? I have had too much experience not to be! Ha, ha! (Takes up his glass.) Devilish good champagne, this! Flink (drinking). But, you know, Mr.--Mr. Republican--ha, ha!--(smiles and whispers)--the King simply would not be allowed to do what you suggest. Ha, ha! The King. What do you mean? Gran (aside to KOLL, who gets up). Are you sure this is right? Koll. It will do him good, anyway, to hear all sides.