2.
Characters:
King
Cardinal Mozzarella
Church attendant (34)
The cathedral clock struck a quarter past six, then half past six, then seven.
King: Why don’t we start? The guests are growing impatient. (35)
Cardinal Mozzarella: We’re waiting for the marquis. He is still not here.
King: Cold feet? (36) I hear some mice get cold feet at the last moment.
Cardinal: Unless I miss my guess (37), we shall soon know the answer to your question, Sire. (38) If Your Majesty will excuse me for a moment…
The cardinal left the king’s side and joined the church attendant who had been trying to attract his attention.
Church attendant: I’m very sorry to interrupt, Your Eminence, but Monsieur Livarot is here.
Cardinal: The Chief of Gendarmes?
Church attendant: Yes. He wishes to speak with Your Eminence. In confidence. Will Your Eminence kindly follow me?
