I try to do my
duty as a king. But I tell you, child, in one little corner of the
king's heart there remains ever something human, and the poor
creature man sometimes cries out for a little personal comfort and
happiness. One may be very rich as a king, but poor--oh, how poor--
as a man! Let us, however, dismiss these sad thoughts. I was
speaking to you of money, Amelia. We will return to this theme. I
cannot prevent your heart from suffering, but I can secure to you
every outward good. Your income, until now, has been small; tell me
what debts you have contracted, and I will pay them!"
"Your majesty falls into my room like a shower of gold," cried
Amelia; "you will find no Danae here, only an ugly old maid, who is,
however, ready to receive the glittering treasure; but you give me
credit for too good a memory when you think I know the amount of my
debts. I only know the sum now in my casket."
"And what is the amount, Amelia?"
"A cipher, sire; your majesty knows this is the end of the month."
"I know it, my sister; and I therefore beg you to accept from me to-
day a small sum in advance. I dreamt last night that you had
recently been called upon to pay out four thousand louis d'or.
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