Original subtitles

I'm bored, bored, my dear Charles. She gives me nothing to do. She refuses to let me play my part.

Will have you actually written to her, Majesty Sir?

Written to her, I've spoken to her, I begged her to give me a proper job, and she won't listen.

Apparently she feels I'm not responsible enough. I lack gravitas.

I understood there was some talk of you going to Ireland, sir.

What? Oh, yes. Yes, Gladstone wanted me to go to Dublin as the Queen's permanent representative, but she wouldn't hear of it.

I can't say I'm altogether sorry. It's not related to the sort of thing I'm after.

Now we have a new government, I just say it'll be dropped altogether.

How do you find Mr. Disraelis, sir?

Disraelis? You're a tricky devil. I never quite know where I am with him.

But still I like them, huh? Perhaps you love some ideas, sir.

No, I doubt it. Don't think you altogether trusts me, sir.

But it's not his fault, all Gladstone's. It's the Queen.

I cannot understand it. I was trained for 20 years, made to work to study all day every day, because one day, as my father, never tired of reminding me, much would be expected of me.

All that effort, all that work, for what? Nothing. Nothing is expected of me because I am given nothing to do.

It is very frustrating, sir.

Do you know, Charlie, if I didn't find something soon, I think I'll go mad.

I will, you know. If she doesn't change her mind and give me something to do, I'll go stock-staring mad.

To be here, I'm sandering on my teal or elsewhere. He's such a relief, such a holiday for us.

Have you visited Arasha?

Alas, I'm afraid I've never...

Oh, no, well, I love it, of course. How could I do otherwise? For the sake of my beloved Sasha, I would put up with anything.

But the court in St Petersburg is still so formal. Oh, watch the word.

Protocol. Oh, I hate that word. I suffocate with protocol, my dear Lord Elizabeth. And there's so old version. You would never pretend to be here.

The dance is gracefully as ever, of course. Thank you. And look as beautiful.

Your role highness is always known how to compliment the lady. I mean it, Elizabeth. I know you do.

She's beautiful, isn't she? Bob? Edith Aiswett.

Look at Paul Milly trying to get him to keep time. One, two, three. One, two, three. One, two, three.

That's better. We'll make a dance of you. I'm afraid I've had a little ability at this sort of thing.

Oh, nonsense. You're doing it very nicely.

Your wife, dance is where, doesn't she? Yes, she does.

Of course, before her illness, my darling Alex, you still have to...

Put her royal highness still. Oh, yes, but not like she used. Oh, in your day, she hardly missed the dance.

I sometimes think she prepared to sit with Oliver Montague and watch.

I notice he always claims the first walls after supper. Yes, isn't it so easy? Such a devoted man.

I see Montague's at his usual station. Yes. What do you make of him? Oliver? Never anything about him.

He seems a good man at his job. Very loyal to the princess and the princess.

If you're suggesting what I think of suggesting, my dear brother, you're barking up the wrong tree.

Oliver's far too straight-laced for anything like that. It's all very honorable. I assure you.

You never... Edith Aiswett is a damn pretty woman. Yes. I'm going to have a smoke. Are you coming?

Oh, yes. Yes, good idea.

Oh, Prime Minister. Good evening, Lord Randolph, Lord Blampen.

Good evening. Not dancing, Prime Minister. I'm afraid these old legs are not quite so nimble as they used to be.

I must congratulate you, Mr. Disraeli, on a splendid majority. How many?

Enough, I fancy enough. 50 overall. Don't be taken in, my dear fellow.

The Prime Minister is delighted with the result of the election. We all are.

It came in good time. I think they've stopped playing.

Not for long. The prince is in good form tonight. They'll go on until the small hours.

Oh, dear.

What's the matter, Prime Minister? Don't you like a good party? Have a drink.

Thank you. I must confess I found the band of trifle noisy.

Russians seem to be enjoying themselves. I hope so. That after all is why we're here.

Oh, yes. This is all in there, honor, you know. You remember that row over Prince Alfred's fiance?

The Grand Duchess Marie. Yes. The Russians wanted her given precedence over the princess of Wales.

The Demodend did. The Queen soon put a stop to it, of course. But I gather the Tsar was somewhat offended.

Grand Duchess was badly advised. I dare say. Anyway, this is the prince's way of healing the breach.

See, clever of him. Good. Very good. Our Bertie. It is most diplomatic.

What's that about our Bertie? You taking my name in vain, Randy, old fox?

Your grand office just explained to me, sir, your reason for inviting the Saray Beach and his wife to this country.

Stupidly, I hadn't realized that this ball was in there, honor.

I see. Yes, well, can't stand family of rows. Never could. I'd like a drink, Charlie, if it wouldn't mind.

There's certainly a royal harness. Anybody else?

Thank you. Oh, I'm exhausted. What a day. Your royal harness found the farewell ceremonies with the Shah of Persia, Tari.

Yes, I did. And not only the farewell ceremonies, the whole damn visit. Thank God he's gone.

He's got a fellow, you know. They say he even paid a visit to Madam Hamilton.

It's easy, butch.

Probably felt more like home.

Yes, I took him to stay with George Sutherland at Trentham, where, when you know George, he's pretty free and easy in his ways.

Anyway, just as we were leaving, the Shah turned to me and said, absolutely seriously, mine.

Two grand for a subject. You'll have to have his head off when you come to this row.

The country isn't your death, sir. He cannot have been the easiest of guests.

Oh, I quite enjoyed myself, really. After all, someone had to entertain the poor beggar.

If you're sure Her Majesty must have appreciated your acting as host to his Excellency.

Yes, I do, sir.

Well, come on, Charlie B. What's the matter with you?

Are there enough pretty women for you?

Plan for two old horse, sir.

Stare yourself. Randy.

There. Feel better now. Right, right, right.

His royal highness is recuperative power as a remarkable.

You're upset? That's speech about the Queen.

I know. Stupid of me. I hadn't realized how deeply he resents our attitude.

But the man needs a job of work to do.

A ranging guided to us for foreign visitors, laying foundation stones. It's not enough.

Good God, he's 33. How much longer must he wait?

My predecessor wanted to make him by Troy of Ireland.

Ooh, that fiasco. I don't think he was too keen on that himself.

No, it needs a subtler approach. Gladstone is always a bit heavy-handed. I must see what I can do.

It won't be easy. The Queen set against the idea?

Yes. That makes it all the more interesting, don't you think?

Happy holidays? Of course. I think it's all going very well.

They love being here, Mini and Sasha. I think they feel freer, more relaxed.

Less frightened too, are they, sir? Yes.

Been talking to Dizzy. Oh?

Apparently, my ma's really pleased with us for looking out at the Persian general.

Oh, that's good darling. That's good, isn't it?

I noticed you are dancing with the prince earlier.

Did you?

He dances well, I believe. Yes, he does.

Have you known him long? Oh, yes, we're old friends.

I see. Do you?

To give me. You're looking very beautiful this evening.

Thank you, Lord Lam.

I suppose I cannot persuade you, Lady Chesterfield.

Oh, no, I'm happy to sit here and watch. Really, I'd prefer it.

Good, so do I.

Who is it?

Sir, do I?

Who is that woman dancing with old Lamford?

Her body is Lady Ailesford.

She's very pretty. Yes, she is.

And I don't think the prince is the only person in the room to have noticed it.

The Prime Minister, ma'am. Oh, thank you, John.

Missed it is really.

I was just writing to darling Vicki.

Your Majesty.

How was your visit to Sandriel? Are the Russians still there?

Oh, do hope Bertie and Alex didn't keep you up half the night, dancing.

Did Lady Chesterfield go with you? I do hope she liked the flowers I sent.

They came from the gardens of Osbourne. You know, I picked them myself.

Your Majesty is too kind to answer your Majesty's questions in order to ask my visit to Sandriel most present.

The Saraymige and his wife still there.

I'm afraid I excused myself early from the dancing and Lady Chesterfield, who was with me, did the same.

But the flowers which your Majesty was gracious enough to send her.

A fairy gift from Queen Titania herself.

I think, Mr. Disraire, that you are laughing at me.

I promise you, dear madam, that I am not.

Well, I am not sure that I can believe you. However, I'm glad your visit was a success.

His Royal Highness is the most lavish of hosts.

Yes, I don't doubt that.

And, like his father, the most generous of men.

Thank you, Mr. Disraire.

And now to work. Do please sit down.

Oh, please, Mr. Disraire. I should prefer it. I get a stiff neck. I'll be looking up at you all the time.

Your Majesty is most gracious.

I used to ache all over after an audience of Mr. Gladstone.

Of course, that could have been for a variety of reasons.

I cannot think what your Majesty means.

Now, I have read all of the reports concerning what I believe you call social reform.

All, ma'am.

All, Mr. Disraire. And I am particularly interested in the Artisans' Dwelling Act.

Those dreadful slums. You have my unqualified support.

I am deeply grateful, ma'am. The knowledge of your Majesty's feelings will greatly increase our chances of success.

Oh.

There is another matter, ma'am, which I hesitate to mention as I appreciate your Majesty's concern over the problem.

Oh, what is that?

I was much impressed during my visit to Sandringham with his Royal Highness's skill in handling the Russian couple.

I'm glad to hear it.

And...

Well, I was wondering, ma'am, whether the time has not come.

And we could look for an area in which his Royal Highness's skill might be used for the benefit of the country.

Well, Mr. Disraire.

It is not the first time such a proposition has been made.

No, Your Majesty.

Mr. Gladstone wished to make him vice-royal Ireland.

Yes, Your Majesty.

No, I seem to have stopped that.

Your Majesty acted most wisely. I'm sure we could find something more suitable.

Well, I shall think about it. I make no promises, mind.

But I shall think about it.

Your Majesty is most gracious.

I am, as always, at your Majesty's feet.

You have to be safe, baby!

Yes!

Be careful, darling, you'll exhaust yourself.

I don't know how he has the energy out of his hat, will you?

Your joy is very much.

You're the great baby, but you love to play with the children, especially down here at Sanirina.

Oh, you're so lucky to have this place.

I cannot believe we are sitting here so free, no pleas, no guards.

In Russia, this could not happen. We're surrounded by security the whole time.

Are we not so sure?

My father tries to liberate the rules.

But can you not simply tell them to go away?

No.

Today.

I say many. Boy, if yours is heavier than it looks.

He's growing up at last, thanks, darling.

You're all out of breath.

He's so like George, you were, said he's age.

Have you noticed that, like, Stalin? Yes.

Your nikness in my George.

I think they both have a look of darling, papar.

Yes.

God protect them.

Sir, darling?

Well, nothing right here.

Will you and Sasha be shooting again this afternoon?

No.

I expect so. What do you say, Sasha? I would like.

It would take Eddy with you. He does so, Margaret.

Very well.

Well, come on, Sasha. Let's see what sort of a bag we got this morning.

Roxy?

Ready?

He envies Sasha. Did you know that?

Oh, Bertie?

Yes. He says he has much more real power.

A proper power to play in the ruling of his country.

But so has Bertie.

No.

No, the Queen will not let him.

And in any case, in this country, the monarch does not rule anymore.

My darling, I need you.

Sometimes I get so worried for him.

He gets so angry inside.

The man is not going to let him.

And slant, slant it on.

Well, there must be something. There must be.

Good God, I'm 34. I'm not a child.

Indeed not so.

Well, what's the trouble this time? What have I done to this pleaser?

Well, I believe so. Your recent visit to Paris.

No, she wanted you to stop that, didn't she?

And then the visit to Barben. There was talk of gambling in the press.

Well, I wish the press had mine its own business.

I've never gambled more than I can afford. Where's the harm in that?

On your side, sir.

She disapproves of the way I live, but gives me no chance to wear no respect.

If I've given nothing to do, how could I ever be able to prove to her that I'm anything more than a mere plague boy?

Your Royal Highness's visit to Coventry went off very well.

Oh, yes, but that's the icing. On the cake I did, Israeli, I'm after something better than that.

Has your Royal Highness anything particular in mind?

What? No, no, not yet.

But I'll think of something. And when I do, when I do, Mr Prime Minister, I won't take no for an answer.

No, your Royal Highness.

Thank you, Coles.

Well, Oliver, what did you think? Did you enjoy the exhibition?

Very interesting.

Oh, Oliver, tell the truth now. You were bored stiff. I know it. I could tell.

Well, perhaps there was a little more of it than I anticipated.

I'm sorry, my dear. I'm afraid I stayed too long.

But I love the native work, especially the Indian things.

It was kind of you to come your much too good to me.

If you enjoyed it, then I'm happy.

Thank you.

Now let's find Bertie and tell him all about it. Come.

Well, we don't want the membership getting too big. We should try and keep it exclusive.

Trouble is, sir, it's become almost a necessity in society for a gentleman to join the mobra.

Oh, ridiculous.

It's your Royal Highness connection with the club, of course, that's the case.

Oh, yes, yes, I see that. But still, we must be careful.

You remember that American card shop as hello, Charlie?

Oh, dreadful business.

We don't want a repetition of that sort, okay?

Indeed, sir.

Oh, sir.

Oh, Alex.

Bertie.

How was the exhibition?

Wonderful, wonderful.

Good afternoon, Lord Lamford, both

of you have been doing?

Oh, we've just been discussing club business.

Oh, and the pictures. It looks such a beautiful country, darling, so exotic.

I should love to go there.

Have you ever been to India, Lord Lamford?

No, ma'am.

It's very strange. The country is full of kings and princes, as far as I can see, and none of us has ever been there.

Well, I won't disturb you any longer. You can go back to talking about your stuff, your club.

I will see you at dinner, I hope.

Alex, my dear, you must forgive me. I'm afraid I shall not be with you this evening, something I have to sort out at my stuffy old club.

Oh, I see. Very well.

Goodbye, then, Lord Lamford, Lord Carrington, Oliver.

Well now, gentlemen, where were we?

Champagne jolly's for life. Champagne jolly's for life.

Good, fairy game, the night, my boy is good, fair to gain the night, my boy is a champagne jolly for life.

Champagne jolly's for life. Good, fairy game, the night, boy.

Oh, Kevin's running a street.

I say Joe.

Sir?

Tell me, Joe.

What do you know about India?

Don't care about the capital, don't hurt him.

Oh, oh.

Come on, though, Sean.

Come on, Miss Bell.

Go on, have a try.

Oh, dear.

I don't think I can catch him.

Oh, my God, that's not good.

Oh, my God.

Not unlike pig sticking and so on.

No, it's not.

Good nature for the old elsewhere.

Yes.

Spoting Joe.

Let me know.

What did you say, my dear?

A noisy girl.

It is a busy day.

It's hard, I don't call all day in this book.

Oh, I don't know if you need worry.

It's a great, pleasant piece with him.

I think he rather enjoys it.

Oh, God.

Press the prince.

Open to him.

Not yet, but I'm sure he will.

And concludes his last something on his mind.

There.

Now.

Thank you, dear Lordes.

But I'm sure you've had quite enough for one.

Come along here, everybody.

Let's go into the hall.

There's more room there.

We can play clubs.

Come along, Mr. Disraeli.

Your lady, Chesterfield, must play too.

My dear.

Thank you, your honor.

I'm afraid I shouldn't be very good at it.

Of course you will.

We'll make a rule.

You can place it in down.

Sit in down.

Oh dear.

I'll have to play that for you.

I'm afraid that will make you cool.

Mr. Disraeli.

Your honor, Hannes.

A word with you, if I may.

Of course, sir.

I think I've found something.

Indeed, sir.

Something for me to do.

Something really worthwhile.

May I ask what it is?

I want to make an official visit to India.

Come.

A visit to India.

That is certainly an unusual idea.

It has been with me for some time, but I felt that I should consider it thoroughly before seeking your permission.

That was very sensible of you, Bertie.

Would you like the more tea?

No, thank you, ma'am.

I should be grateful if we could speak privately about this.

Oh, you can speak freely in front of right.

I'm sorry.

I should be grateful.

Thank you, John.

That will be all.

Have you finished your tea?

Yes, thank you.

I'll take the tray then.

Well, Bertie.

Well, you see, Dennis, ma'am.

I have felt increasingly that I should like a bit away from the sort of life that Alex and I are forced to lead here in England.

You're already getting Alex with you, I hope.

No, no, of course not.

Her place is here with the children.

Oh, yes, I'm sure she understands that.

No, it's from my own point.

I'm sorry.

I'm sorry.

I'm sorry.

I'm sorry.

I'm sorry.

I'm sorry.

I'm sorry.

I'm sorry.

I'm sorry.

I'm sorry.

I'm sorry.

I'm sorry.

I'm sorry.

I'm sorry.

No, it's from my own point of view.

Well, of tour of India, would I suppose take you away from those frivolous, pleasure-seeking persons whose company seems so much a part of your life here?

And I am anxious, as you know, to be of some use to my country.

The Prime Minister has often told me so.

Have you spoken of your plans to him?

Well, it seemed wiser to get his approval before troubling you, ma'am.

So Mr. Disraeli approves the idea?

Oh, entirely, and the cabinet, too.

I see.

Well, Bertie.

My dearest wish is to serve you in this.

I do say.

And to try to become more worthy of him.

Oh, Bert.

Oh, Bertie.

Oh, dear, it's...

dearest Bertie.

Well, if you really want to go, I suppose I cannot withhold my permission.

Thank you, ma'am.

Well, gentlemen, I am happy to say that we have done it.

Our young prince, Hel, with the help of your humble servant has got himself a job.

He's to make an official visit to India.

Oh, I should perhaps add that her Majesty has only given permission on the understanding

that his royal Highness had already obtained the approval of her Majesty's ministers.

But I hope, gentlemen, that we may overlook his royal Highness's anticipation of the event in that respect.

Will the prince sense to accompany him?

I think not, Mr. Cross.

In fact, I believe she has not yet been told of his royal Highness's plans.

Is it true?

Alex, my dear, whatever's the matter.

Is it true?

Is what true?

All of us says you are going to India.

A state visit is a true.

What the devil does Oliver know about you?

Don't blame him. He had quite casually at his club.

But I was going to tell you, of course.

Then it is true.

Why didn't you tell me?

When do we leave? There is so much to be done.

I shall need an entirely new war, Joe.

Alex, my darling, Alex.

How can I explain to you? I did not tell you because this is something I have to do alone.

I am going to India in my own right as the heir apparent.

Alone? I mean, I am not to go with you.

No. You see, my dear...

But that's ridiculous.

Why am I not to come? I came with you to Egypt. Why am I not to go to India?

There are to be no women in the party.

Oh, that's too silly. Of course I should come. I've always wanted to go to India.

It will be like our trip to Egypt only better.

You should say... I'm afraid it's not possible.

In any case, the strain would be too much for you.

It's difficult for ladies to move about there.

None since my darling. I am completely better now.

Oh, how exciting it will be. India, I've dreamed of going there.

And actually, you must listen to what I'm saying. I am going alone.

It is already decided. The arrangements have been made.

You do not want me with you?

It's not a question to be with your friends.

No. I don't know.

That is why you kept it from me. You do not trust me.

Alex, you must understand. I do not understand.

I do not agree to it. I will not be left behind. I will go to India with you.

I am your wife. It is my right.

But, dear, if you are not listening, I shall speak to the Queen.

It will do no good.

When I got my mask on, it was given only on the understanding that you would remain here with the children.

I cannot understand, Alex, dear. Why are you so anxious to visit that continent?

I believe the climate is very saltery, most unsuitable for ladies.

But, Mama, I've always wanted to go to India always. It has been my dream.

Well, that says maybe, but your place is with the children. You sure it cannot deny that.

I think the husband comes first.

Yes, dear, of course. And since it is his wish that you should stay with the children, I am surprised at your determination to do otherwise.

But it is so unfair.

Mama, please do not be angry with me. But it is my dearest wish to be with Bertie. Please say that I may go.

Now, Alex, calm yourself. You must understand that I am doing this for your own good.

I remember, dear Albert, said to me once, when he refused something I wanted very much.

I love you far too much to let you do what would do you harm.

And so it is on this occasion. But what harm could it possibly do me?

The harm that always comes when we neglect our duties in pursuit of selfish pleasures.

No, Mama. No, Alex, that is enough. We will not talk a bit anymore.

I am deeply sorry you feel as you do, but I cannot consent to your accompanying prince of Wales. It would not be right.

And now if you will forgive me, we are keeping the prime minister waiting. Thank you, John.

Mr. Desrading.

Mr. Desrading.

I am most displeased. This Indian expedition is causing nothing but trouble. I wish I had never given my consent.

Your Majesty, the princess of Wales has just been begging me to let her go. So undignified.

And the list of the prince's companions that you submitted to me.

Well, it leaves a great deal to be desired.

I think his royal highness feels.

I know very well what his royal highness feels.

And I can only say that if I had known he intended to take with him gentlemen like Lord Caddington and Lord Charles Bettasford, I should never have allowed him to go.

A fashionable set.

Well, idea I say the trip will prove disastrous and then I shall be blamed.

The world is sometimes very unfair. Is it not, Mr. Desrading?

It is, ma'am. It is indeed.

Bye. Goodbye.

I'm fine.

Frances?

I wanted to go with him, Charlotte. I wanted to go with him so much.

I wanted to go with him.

I wanted to go with him.

I wanted to go with him.

I wanted to go with him.

I wanted to go with him.

I wanted to go with him.

Oh, my God, the old savage is determined to outdo us all.

The hot knight in it.

I can't understand his royal highness has decided to give up wearing tails.

This new style is a damn sight cooler.

I'd be there calling it a dinner jacket.

Are they indeed? Oh, I say Francis.

What tent is that zoologist for them? What is named the old Bart?

And during us day in burrowed us some curious wild beast fights who stayed for us.

Elephants, rhinoceros and buffalo pitted against each other.

Fortunately, none was hurt excepting one buffalo who had his horn broken,

which I fear must have hurt him a great deal.

Puffinale?

Yes, darling, you know what a buffalo is? Like a big shaggy cow with curt ho.

I have had great tiger shooting. The day before yesterday I killed six,

and some were very savage. Two were man eaters.

Today I killed a tiger, and she had a little cub with her.

I hope to bring him back with me for you to see.

When is pappa coming home, Emma? Will it be soon?

Yes, my darling, very soon.

I wish I was Mindy with Kapoor. So do I.

A triumph ma'am. His royal highness is fated and admired wherever he goes.

I understand that there were more than eight Ma'arajas at the Calcutta Der Bar.

His visitors proved successful beyond my most sanguine expectations.

I'm glad to hear it, Mr. Disraeli.

Of course, such enthusiasm could only have been inspired by the knowledge that his royal highness is, as it were,

your majesty's representative.

It may be so. However, I have had a letter from him concerning the rude manner in which some of our political officers treat the princes and chiefs to whom they are appointed.

I cannot say how strongly I deplore this kind of behaviour. I hope something is being done about it.

It is ma'am. It is Lord Salisbury's taking steps.

Good. Apart from that unfortunate matter, it is true that all the reports we have had suggest that the visit has been something of a success.

Indeed ma'am. That is why, if I may make so bold, I feel the time has come for the government to introduce its bill to proclaim your majesty, Empress of India.

Empress of India.

Well, Mr. Disraeli, I won't pretend that I am not pleased.

I have felt for some time that I should assume the title.

The King of Prussia calls himself an emperor of a far less recent.

But to learn a bit from the newspapers, that's what irks me, Francis.

I can only think it was an oversight on the part of the private business's office.

I have after all a vested interest in the future of the crown, and if the Queen is to be created, Empress of India, I should have been told at first.

Exactly. I mean, good God here. I am in the middle of the blasted country, and the last to be told. Now it's not good enough.

Well, you better write to Disraeli. I'd like him to know exactly how I feel.

Yes, there it was. I had thought that our success here might have altered their attitude evidently I was wrong.

I'm sure you're all I know now, my dear fellow. Leave it, leave it, leave it.

By the way, what was that noise last night?

I believe Lord Charles let loose an armadillo, Mr. Bartlett's tent, the zoologist's side.

Yes, yes, I know that that.

Yes, I know that that's how Mr. Bartlett became somewhat alarmed.

Well, he certainly made enough noise about it.

Oh, morning, Joe. Were you involved in this prank of Charles last night?

If I might have a word in private, sir.

Yes, of course, my dear fellow. Thank you, Francis.

I'm afraid I'd have some rather upsetting news from home, sir.

Yes. Better for my wife.

What's the matter, Joe? I don't quite know how to tell you, sir.

In fact, you see, intends to run off, at Blanford.

Devil shit, I... Yes, apparently been going on for some time.

Oh, my dear fellow.

If I might have your oil, I need this permission to return to England.

Yes, yes, of course, Joe. I am very sorry. Thank you, sir.

And it's a black art. I blame myself for good deal.

Shouldn't have left her, you see. What are you going to do?

I don't know, sir.

I don't care much for the idea of a divorce, but I may have no alternative.

Yes. Yes, I see that.

If your Royal Highness will forgive me.

Yes, of course, Joe. I'll see you before you do. I hope.

Sir.

Did you know about this, Francis?

It has been taught, right?

Awkward business, yes. This telegram is just arrived. I felt you should see it at once.

Oh, it's from Randy.

Well, I'm down.

He says he'll undertake to persuade his brother not to enlope with Lady Ailesford.

If I use my influence with Joe to stop it, of course.

Sir.

Well, what's got into the fellow?

To me and social ruin for both families.

Yes, I do. Save it. I don't see how I can interfere. I mean, it's a private matter between Joe and old Blanford.

Yes.

Should never have got out in the first place. If people can't manage their affairs more sensibly, they won't deserve to have them.

He's in Cairo now. In a little over a month, he'll be home.

He'll long to see him, Charlotte. You cannot know how much.

And he is bringing such presence for the children, lions and tigers and elephants.

They will all have to go to the zoo, I suppose.

His royal highness trip has been a great success, Mom.

And it's all been such a success, Charlotte. Apart from this wretched business with Ailesford.

That was most regrettable.

I feel so sorry for him, such a dear man. And Lady Ailesford too, I'm in front of them both.

Now, I suppose I may not receive them. It's also stupid. These things should be kept private.

Yes, Williams, what is it?

Lady Ailesford is in the hall, ma'am. She has asked if she may see you.

Oh, yes, that would be perfectly all right. Ask her to come up.

But, Mom, what an extraordinary thing. I had no idea she was even in London.

And it is so long since we last met. Do you suppose she would like tea?

Charlotte, dear, would you see to it? But, no.

I have no idea. I'm sure why she should call upon me so unexpectedly. Thank you, Charlotte.

Lady Ailesford, Lord Allington, Lord Randolph Churchill, ma'am.

Oh, Lord Allhynus, I'm deeply grateful. Lady Ailesford, but I thought he...

What can I do for you?

I think you know, ma'am, of the circumstances involving my brother, Lord Blanford, and this lady.

Yes, of course. Do sit down, Lady Ailesford.

What I have to say will not take long, ma'am.

I have repeatedly urged his royal highness to persuade Lord Ailesford not to proceed in this matter.

Unfortunately, he has seen fit to ignore my requests.

And therefore, I have no alternative but to tell you, ma'am, that I have in my possession letters from the prince to Lady Ailesford of such a nature

that were there to be published his royal highness would never sit on the throne of England.

No, Dr. Ailesford.

I'm sorry to have had to trouble you, ma'am, with this matter.

But I am determined to use every means in my power to prevent this case coming before the public.

And therefore, in the light of what I've said, I must ask you to persuade his royal highness to compel the Lord Ailesford to withdraw his suit.

That is all, I think.

Ma'am, I'm filled. I will not hear anymore. I think you had better go.

I shall, of course, inform Lord Ailesford of what has happened.

Thank you, ma'am.

You should never have seen her. All that dreadful old Randolph. I can't think what possessed you.

But, ma'am, I told you, I misheard the name when she was announced. I thought William said Lady Ailesford.

It is graceful behavior.

Not you, not you. Speaking of Lord Randolph.

That a mere subject should be prepared to destroy the prince's good name merely in order to prevent some stupid society scandal.

I find it difficult to believe.

I think he meant what he said, ma'am.

Yes.

Yes.

Oh.

You did right to come to me.

And Bertie has been in discreet. I'm afraid that's clear.

I should have to talk to Mr. Disraeli.

It is too bad, just as things were going so nicely.

I understand Lord Randolph is saying he has the crown of England in his pocket.

Lord Randolph was always given to overstatement.

All the good Wilberts the prince has achieved with his success in India put to risk because of a scolid society scandal.

One more divorce case and nobody will take it as seriously.

Well, he'd better be told, I suppose. We must pray he keeps his head.

Write this down, will you?

Sir. And dear prince.

The man's a scoundrel.

He was my friend, Charlie. That's what I can't understand.

I'm doing the following annex and all this. My God, I'll fight you, Michel. Get away with it. Look, Charlie. This is what I want you to do.

We'll put you off at Brindissi. Trouble in London as quickly as you can. Get the fella for name in seconds.

I'll meet him anywhere he likes, outside England. Pistols. See to it, will you? Sir.

But what are you waiting for? You heard what I said, didn't you?

Didn't you?

Sir.

He's challenged me to a dual Prime Minister. I thought you'd heard. A dual?

With pistols on the north coast of France. Of course, the idea is absurd, as his Royal Highness very well knows.

Come to think of his idea, say that's why he issued the challenge. He was always braver in word than indeed.

Lord Randolph. In any case, it certainly doesn't alter my mind. I shall neither retract nor withdraw. I see.

Well, gentlemen, I have advised his Royal Highness to return home at once. I must tell you, Lord Randolph, I don't think these letters are as damaging as you seem to expect. Her Majesty has implicit confidence in the Prince of Wales.

Has she? Well, he may need it. And now, Prime Minister, if you will forgive me.

Yes, yes, of course, of course. I must apologize, Prime Minister. I think Lord Randolph says more than he means.

Yes, of course, of course. The Crown of England in his pocket. Well, we shall see. We shall see.

Hello, Alex.

Bertie.

Thank you. Thank you for coming. I wanted to see you first before. Yes, darling. I understand. I understand.

There was nothing in it, you know, nothing at all. I'm sorry because of the pain that that monsters caused you.

It doesn't matter, my darling. It doesn't matter now. You're right not to give in and to take sides. It will all be alright. I'm sure it will.

I don't know that I care very much as long as you believe me.

I do, my darling. Of course I do.

You say that you challenged Lord Randolph to a duel because of his behaviour to me? Yes, I did.

Oh, darling, I do love you.

Come on, let's go up.

Alex, what is it, my dear?

There are a lot of people on the dock.

I don't know.

You don't know what sort of a welcome, is that what you mean?

It might be better to wait for a little while.

No, if I'm unpopular because of this ridiculous scandal, better to face it straight away, don't believe in skulking in corners.

In any case, that it only matters worse.

Will you come with me?

Of course, I will.

And it was the same with Covent Garden, Mama. A novation lasting several minutes.

They even clapped and cheered before the start of each act and at the end too. Did they indeed?

I should have preferred to dine quietly with Alex, Mama, but in view of the Ailsford business, it seemed good to go to the opera, give the public a chance to express their feelings.

I think that was wise, Bertie. And now, Mr. Disraeli, I believe the whole unfortunate business is settled.

Yes, ma'am, Lord Ailsford has decided not to proceed with the divorce.

And his royal highness, as I understand, already received a note of apology from Lord Randolph.

I have. I gather he and his wife are planning a trip to America.

It seems the contents of his pocket did not turn out quite so exciting as he anticipated.

The contents of his pocket? What can you mean, Mr. Disraeli?

Oh, nothing ma'am, nothing of figure of speech. I fancy Lord Randolph was surprised at the warmth of his royal highness's reception on his return to England.

I see. Well, good. I'm glad the whole thing is over. Perhaps Bertie will take a little more care in future over your choice of friends.

Now, Mr. Disraeli, I have something to show you. Thank you, Leopold.

Thank you, Leopold. Yes, ma'am. Look what Bertie has brought me from India.

Leaves from a journal of my life in the highlands. Your own leaves, ma'am.

Translated into Hindustani. So handsomely bound. Oh, ma'am, my warmest congratulations. A splendid gift.

I think you can guess how much it means to me.

We, authors, ma'am, indeed I can. Thank you.

Dear Balmoral. It was a place he loved best, you know.

Oh, well. You and I have worked to do, Mr. Disraeli. Leopold? Forgive me, my dears.

I'm most concerned about this trouble in the Balkans. Will it mean war with Russia? And why is Mr. Gladstone so agitated?

I hope we may be able to avoid war, ma'am. Mr. Gladstone's agitation, however, is quite another matter.

How long's that been going on? What, my darling?

Leo, acting as a sort of prime mid-secretary. He has a key, you know. A personal key to the dispatch bubble.

It's not the same as the boxes. Is that important?

It's more than I've ever had.

I think I shall go to Greece, Bertie.

Greece, but why? What are the four?

I haven't seen my brother for such a long time.

I'm ex-tiling it's not because of this ails for businesses.

No, no, of course not.

But the doctors say that I need a change. And really, I should love to see Willy again.

Should I have any just come back?

Never mind my darling. I shan't stay away for long, and you will have plenty to do.

Right. I wonder.

Well, gentlemen, I am happy to tell you that the Anglo-Russian deadlock has been resolved.

A defensive alliance with Turkey concluded our position in Cyprus confirmed.

We have kept the Russians out to the Mediterranean.

A very satisfactory state of affairs.

The dispatches for the Prince of Wales, Prime Minister.

No, don't send them. I've changed my mind. He's very restless at the moment.

We wouldn't want him upsetting things.

His rival, Highness, will be expecting him.

We'll write him a note by the fellow. That'll keep him happy. Write this down.

Dear his prince, I write to tell you that I did something yesterday for Greece.

An adjustment of the frontier in her favor. A small thing, but I know means to be despised.

It was all done for her royal Highness sake.

In haste. Ever.

Sir. And dear prince.

Etc. Etc.

Ever, sir. And dear prince.

Come in.

Forgive me, sir. It's time your royal Highness was changing for the opera.

No, is it?

Do you think it's right, sir?

No, no, Francis. I'm just a little tired. That's all.

I may not bother with the opera this evening.

I see, sir. In that case, will you be going to say Allen Young's?

Who?

It's Allen Young, the arctic explorer. You were going on there after the opera.

Or was I, I'd forgotten that.

It's a reception in your honor, sir. Stratford Place, of Oxford Street.

Yes.

Do you know, Francis, I don't think I'll go there either.

Make my excuses to Sir Allen, will you?

Tell him I shouldn't be going to his party.

Charles, this is my dear fellow. How are you?

Allen. You forgive me? Good of you to come.

Haven't seen you since you got back from India. Good trip?

Well, not bad at all. That silly nonsense been blanched and Joe Ilft's wife upset things a bit towards the end.

But, um, we had some excellent shootings. Good. Good.

Rand is gone off to America, I hear. Yes, better place for him.

Her job's completely disgraced. We don't even mention his name at the motorhouse.

So, many who are off to the North Pole again? Oh, I don't know, my dear fellow.

When I get bored with all this, I expect. Gotta do something to keep myself amused.

Here's what is it?

Charles, will you excuse me a moment? Yes, sir.

I'm sorry.

I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry.

Good to see you. I'm fed a little late.

Why did you were able to come, sir?

There's someone here who was particularly anxious to meet you.

Indeed. You will follow me, sir.

Greetings. You're in George. Ready? Arthur.

Hello, very good. How are you? Charlie?

Sir.

Your oil line is, I don't think you know Mrs. Edward Langtray.

She and her husband had recently arrived in this country from Jersey.

Mrs. Langtray, an unexpected pleasure.

Yes, sir. Yes, sir. Yes, sir. Yes, sir. Yes, sir. Yes, sir.

Thanks, Charlie. Thank you.