What is it?
SIR ROBERT.--Am I to consider myself "as regularly called in?"
THE QUEEN.--That is a question I decline answering at present.
SIR ROBERT.--Then I regret that I must also remain silent.
THE QUEEN (_aside_).--The wily fox! (_aloud_)--Are you aware that great
distress exists in the country?
SIR ROBERT.--Oh, yes! I have heard that there are several families who
keep no man-servant, and that numerous clerks, weavers, and other
artisans, occupy second-floors.
THE QUEEN.--I have heard that the people are wanting bread.
SIR ROBERT.--Ha, ha! that was from the late premier, I suppose. He merely
forgot an adjective--it is _cheap_ bread that the people are clamouring
for.
THE QUEEN.--And why can they not have it?
SIR ROBERT.--I have consulted with the Duke of Richmond upon the subject,
and he says it is impossible.
THE QUEEN.--But why?
SIR ROBERT.--Wheat must be lower before bread can be cheaper.
THE QUEEN.--Well!
SIR ROBERT.--And rents must be less if that is the case, and--
THE QUEEN.--Well!
SIR ROBERT.--And that the landowners won't agree to.
THE QUEEN.--Well!
SIR ROBERT.--And, then, I can't keep my place a day.
THE QUEEN.--Then the majority of my subjects are to be rendered miserable
for the advantage of the few?
SIR ROBERT.--That's the principle of all good governments. Besides, cheap
bread would be no benefit to the masses, for wages would be lower.
THE QUEEN.
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