"Our sovereign lord knows, too, that it beseems him to be less rigid in saving.

Only yesterday he dipped into his purse deeply enough for another remedy." "What was that ?" asked the Queen in surprise.
"He paid the debts of my colleague Malfalconnet, not less than ten thousand ducats." "There it is!" exclaimed the regent, striking her hands sharply together.

"The baron dispels the Emperor's melancholy by his ready wit, which often hits the nail on the head, and his nimble tongue, but my medicine must provide the fitting mood for Malfalconnet's dearly bought jests and witticisms to exert the proper influence." "And, moreover," Quijada added gaily, "your Majesty will present the completed deed for the treasurer's action.

But now I most humbly entreat you to dismiss me.

I must inform the quartermasters at once, and look after the matter myself if your Majesty's costly magic pills are not to be spoiled by this wet April weather.