Eliza looks in, smiles, and
claps her hands for joy._]
KING. I thought 't would make you happy! 'T is very like your cave--I had
it made so.
(_Eliza tries to thank King with her eyes._)
But no more spinning! Your fingers shall be covered with diamonds instead
of blisters.
(_Eliza sighs very sadly._)
Something troubles you, little queen. If you could only tell me of your
grief!
(_Eliza shakes her head sadly._)
Well, I can at least save you from a life of labor. You shall be most
tenderly cared for.
(_Calling._)
Ho, there, Guardsmen!
(_Enter_ GUARDSMEN.)
Guardsmen, behold your queen!
(_Guards kneel before Eliza._)
Guardsmen, arise and hear my commands.
(_Guards rise._)
Your queen is never to do any of the work about the castle. Do you hear me,
Guardsmen?
GUARDSMEN (_bowing_). We hear, O King!
KING. Not even the spinning or weaving. Do you hear me, Guardsmen?
GUARDSMEN (_bowing_). We hear, O King!
KING. Those are my commands. Now attend us to the banquet-hall.
(_To Eliza, who is weeping._)
Weep no more, little queen. I wish only your happiness. Come, give me your
hand. We go now to the wedding feast.
[_They go out, the Guards attending.
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