Volume VII - Modernist Magazines Project

joThe Queen's PleasureFor State reasons, however, it was decided not to prosecute him.On his release from prison, he asked for his passport, that hemight go abroad. He has remained an exile ever since, and(according to Florimond, at any rate) " is spending his decliningyears colouring a meerschaum."" People talk of the ingratitude of princes," said the Queen,last night. "But what of the ingratitude of nations? TheMonterossans hated me because I dismissed M. Tsargradev ; andthen, when they saw him revealed in his true colours, they stillhated me, in spite of it. They are quick to resent what theyimagine to be an injury ; but they never recognise a benefit. Oh,the folly of universal suffrage! The folly of constitutionalgovernment ! I used to say, c Surely a good despot is better thana mob.' But now I'm convinced that a bad despot, even, isbetter. Come, Florimond, let us sing .... you know ....that song. . . ."u God save—the best of despots ? " suggested Florimond.